Current Affairs 24/02/2026
1. Where has the indigenously manufactured Td vaccine been launched recently?
Answer : Kasauli
The indigenously manufactured Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine was recently launched at the Central Research Institute in Kasauli, marking a significant milestone in India’s public health and vaccine self-reliance journey.
The Central Research Institute, one of India’s premier public sector vaccine manufacturing institutions, has a long legacy of producing life-saving vaccines and sera. The launch of the indigenous Td vaccine strengthens domestic production capacity and reduces dependence on imports, aligning with the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
The Td vaccine is administered to protect against tetanus and diphtheria, two potentially life-threatening bacterial infections. It is particularly important for adolescents, adults, and pregnant women as part of routine immunization programs. By manufacturing the vaccine domestically, India aims to ensure uninterrupted supply, cost-effectiveness, and improved accessibility across states.
The initiative has been supported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare under the Government of India, reinforcing the country’s commitment to strengthening its immunization infrastructure. This development also enhances India’s capacity to meet national immunization demands and potentially expand vaccine exports to other nations.
2. Who has been sworn in as the new State Election Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir?
Answer : Shantmanu
Shantmanu has been sworn in as the new State Election Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir, marking an important development in the Union Territory’s electoral administration framework. The oath of office was administered by Manoj Sinha at an official ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan in Jammu and Kashmir.
A retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Shantmanu brings with him decades of administrative experience across various sectors of governance. His appointment comes at a crucial time when the Union Territory continues to strengthen grassroots democratic institutions, including Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies.
As State Election Commissioner, Shantmanu will be responsible for overseeing the preparation and revision of electoral rolls, as well as conducting free, fair, and transparent elections to municipal bodies and panchayats. The role carries significant constitutional responsibility, ensuring that local governance structures function effectively and democratically.
His appointment is expected to reinforce institutional integrity and enhance public confidence in the electoral process within the Union Territory. The development underscores the administration’s commitment to democratic decentralization and robust local self-governance in Jammu and Kashmir.
3. Who has been appointed as the new Vice President of Microsoft Gaming?
Answer : Asha Sharma
Asha Sharma has been appointed as the new Vice President of Microsoft Gaming, marking a significant leadership development within the global gaming industry. Her elevation reflects Microsoft’s strategic focus on strengthening its gaming ecosystem amid rapid technological transformation and evolving consumer expectations.
With an extensive background in technology and product leadership, Sharma brings a wealth of experience to the role. Prior to this appointment, she held senior leadership positions across major global technology firms and played a key role in driving innovation, digital growth, and platform expansion initiatives. Her expertise in artificial intelligence, product strategy, and global operations is expected to contribute substantially to Microsoft Gaming’s next phase of development.
Microsoft Gaming oversees the company’s expansive gaming portfolio, including the Xbox platform, Game Pass subscription services, cloud gaming operations, and a growing network of internal studios strengthened through major acquisitions. As Vice President, Sharma will be instrumental in shaping long-term business strategy, fostering innovation, and expanding Microsoft’s footprint in the highly competitive interactive entertainment market.
Her appointment comes at a transformative time for the gaming sector, characterized by the integration of cloud computing, AI-driven experiences, and cross-platform ecosystems. Industry observers view her leadership as aligned with Microsoft’s broader corporate vision of leveraging advanced technologies to enhance user engagement and global accessibility.
Overall, Sharma’s appointment signals Microsoft’s commitment to dynamic leadership and sustained growth within its gaming division, reinforcing its ambition to remain at the forefront of the global gaming industry.
4. Where was the country’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) metro inaugurated?
Answer : Meerut
India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor was inaugurated in Meerut, marking a major milestone in the country’s urban and regional transportation infrastructure.
The RRTS project is part of the Delhi–Meerut RRTS corridor, designed to provide high-speed, efficient, and comfortable rail connectivity between Delhi and Meerut. The project is being implemented by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC).
The inauguration of the Meerut section represents a transformative step in reducing travel time, easing road congestion, and promoting sustainable urban mobility. The RRTS trains are designed to operate at high speeds, offering world-class facilities, enhanced safety features, and seamless connectivity with existing metro networks.
This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s broader vision of strengthening public transportation systems, promoting green mobility, and enhancing regional economic integration across the National Capital Region (NCR).
5. With which country has India signed an agreement for cooperation in rare earth minerals?
Answer : Brazil
India has signed an agreement for cooperation in rare earth minerals with Brazil, marking a significant step toward strengthening strategic mineral partnerships and securing critical supply chains.
The agreement aims to enhance collaboration in the exploration, mining, processing, and development of rare earth elements (REEs), which are essential for high-technology industries, renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, defense equipment, and advanced electronics. Rare earth minerals play a crucial role in manufacturing components such as permanent magnets, batteries, and semiconductors.
This partnership reflects India’s broader strategy to diversify its sources of critical minerals and reduce dependence on limited global suppliers. By collaborating with Brazil — a country rich in mineral resources — India seeks to ensure long-term resource security while also promoting joint research, technology exchange, and sustainable mining practices.
The agreement further strengthens bilateral ties between India and Brazil, reinforcing cooperation in the fields of trade, technology, and strategic resources.
6. By which year have India and Brazil set a trade target of 30 billion dollars?
Answer : 2030
India and Brazil have set a bilateral trade target of USD 30 billion by the year 2030, reflecting their commitment to significantly expanding economic cooperation.
The target was agreed upon during high-level diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening strategic and commercial ties between the two emerging economies. Both countries are key members of BRICS and share common interests in trade diversification, energy security, agriculture, defense cooperation, and technology partnerships.
In recent years, bilateral trade between India and Brazil has shown steady growth, driven by sectors such as crude oil, edible oils, sugar, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and engineering goods. The ambitious 2030 target is expected to encourage deeper collaboration, promote investment flows, and enhance cooperation in critical areas including renewable energy and rare earth minerals.
The USD 30 billion goal underscores the strategic importance both nations attach to strengthening South–South cooperation and expanding their economic footprint in global markets.
7. Where is the first semiconductor park of Uttar Pradesh being established?
Answer : Greater Noida
The first semiconductor park of Uttar Pradesh is being established in Greater Noida, marking a major step in the state’s push toward becoming a hub for high-tech manufacturing and electronics production.
The project is part of the broader semiconductor and electronics manufacturing initiative aligned with the Government of India’s semiconductor mission. Greater Noida, located in the National Capital Region (NCR), has emerged as a strategic location due to its strong infrastructure, industrial ecosystem, connectivity, and proximity to Noida and Delhi.
The semiconductor park is expected to attract domestic and global investments, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen India’s capabilities in chip design, fabrication, and packaging. It also supports the vision of boosting self-reliance in semiconductor production, reducing import dependency, and enhancing the country’s position in the global electronics value chain.
This initiative is seen as a transformative development for Uttar Pradesh’s industrial growth and India’s broader semiconductor ecosystem.
8. Where did the Border Security Force (BSF) organize the Bordermen Marathon 2026?
Answer : Amritsar
The Border Security Force (BSF) organized the Bordermen Marathon 2026 in Amritsar, highlighting the force’s commitment to fitness, national unity, and community engagement.
The marathon was conducted under the aegis of the Border Security Force, one of India’s primary border guarding forces responsible for safeguarding the country’s borders. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from BSF personnel, local residents, students, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts.
Organized in the historic border city of Amritsar, the marathon aimed to promote awareness about national security, encourage a healthy lifestyle, and strengthen the bond between security forces and civilians. The initiative also underscored the BSF’s role not only in protecting the nation’s frontiers but also in contributing to social and community development.
The Bordermen Marathon 2026 served as a symbol of endurance, patriotism, and collective spirit, reflecting the dedication and discipline of the BSF personnel.