Current Affairs 02/02/2026
1. Which state’s tableau won the first prize in the Republic Day Parade 2026?
Answer : Maharashtra
Maharashtra Wins First Prize for Best Tableau at Republic Day Parade 2026
At the Republic Day Parade 2026, held on 26 January at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, the state of Maharashtra won the first prize in the States and Union Territories tableau category. This recognition highlighted the state’s excellence in presenting India’s cultural heritage through artistic innovation and a strong national message.
Theme and Concept
Maharashtra’s tableau was based on the theme “Ganeshotsav: A Symbol of Aatmanirbharta (Self-Reliance)”. It showcased the iconic Ganesh festival not only as a religious and cultural celebration, but also as a powerful driver of community participation and local economic activity. The tableau emphasized how Ganeshotsav supports artisans, idol makers, craftsmen, performers, and small entrepreneurs, reflecting the spirit of grassroots self-reliance.
Artistic and Cultural Significance
The tableau stood out for its visual storytelling, intricate design, and cultural authenticity. Traditional art forms, vibrant colours, and symbolic representations were used to convey Maharashtra’s deep-rooted traditions and their relevance in contemporary India. The presentation successfully blended heritage with modern national priorities.
Importance of the Achievement
The Republic Day Parade is one of India’s most prestigious national events, and the tableaux are judged on concept, design, execution, and overall impact. Winning the first prize in this category is a significant honour, reflecting Maharashtra’s ability to communicate a meaningful social and cultural message on a national platform.
Conclusion
Maharashtra’s first-prize-winning tableau at the Republic Day Parade 2026 reinforced the idea that India’s cultural traditions can play a vital role in nation-building and economic self-reliance. The achievement brought national recognition to the state’s cultural richness and creative excellence.
2. Which gallantry award was conferred on Subhanshu Shukla?
Answer : Ashok Chakra
Ashok Chakra Awarded to Subhanshu Shukla
In a moment of great national pride, Subhanshu Shukla was honoured with the Ashok Chakra, the highest gallantry award of India in peacetime, in recognition of his exceptional courage and distinguished service to the nation. The award was formally conferred by the President of India on the occasion of the Republic Day celebrations of 2026, in accordance with long-standing national tradition.
Instituted in the year 1952, the Ashok Chakra is bestowed upon individuals who display conspicuous bravery, indomitable spirit, and self-sacrifice in circumstances other than war. The award occupies a place of the highest esteem in India’s honours system and is reserved for acts of valour that rise above the ordinary call of duty.
The conferment of this honour upon Subhanshu Shukla stands as a clear testimony to his steadfast devotion to duty, presence of mind in moments of grave responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the service of the nation. His conduct exemplified the finest traditions upheld by those entrusted with safeguarding national interest.
Such recognition not only immortalises the individual’s service but also serves as a source of inspiration to future generations, reminding citizens of the virtues of courage, discipline, and sacrifice. The Ashok Chakra awarded to Subhanshu Shukla thus occupies a distinguished place in the annals of India’s contemporary history.
3. How many people were awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2026?
Answer : Five
Padma Vibhushan Awards 2026: An Overview
The Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, was conferred on five distinguished individuals in 2026 by the Government of India. The awards were announced on the eve of Republic Day and formally presented later by the President of India at a ceremonial function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Instituted in 1954, the Padma Vibhushan is awarded for “exceptional and distinguished service” in various fields, including art, literature, education, public affairs, science, and social service. The award recognises contributions that have had a lasting national impact and reflect the highest standards of excellence and dedication.
Padma Vibhushan 2026 Highlights
Total awardees: Five
Rank: Second only to the Bharat Ratna
Fields represented: Arts, public affairs, literature, education, and public service
Nature of recognition: Includes both living and posthumous honours
The 2026 awardees represent a wide spectrum of Indian society, ranging from cultural icons to public leaders and intellectual contributors. Their selection reflects the Government’s commitment to honouring individuals whose lifelong work has significantly enriched the nation’s social, cultural, and institutional framework.
Significance of the Award
The Padma Vibhushan holds immense prestige and symbolizes national gratitude toward individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, integrity, and excellence. By honouring such achievers, the award inspires future generations to contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress.
The Padma Awards 2026, including Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, together highlight India’s diverse talent and the importance of service beyond personal achievement.
4. Which is the first ‘Zero Fresh Waste Dump’ city of Uttar Pradesh?
Answer : Lucknow
Lucknow Declared the First ‘Zero Fresh Waste Dump’ City of Uttar Pradesh
In a noteworthy development in the field of municipal administration and public sanitation, Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, has earned the distinction of being declared the first ‘Zero Fresh Waste Dump’ city in the state. This achievement marks a significant advancement in the systematic management of urban solid waste and reflects the city’s growing emphasis on environmental responsibility.
The designation of Zero Fresh Waste Dump denotes that no newly generated municipal waste is disposed of in open dumping grounds. Instead, the entirety of fresh waste produced within the municipal limits of Lucknow is subjected to scientific treatment and processing, in accordance with prescribed environmental standards.
This accomplishment has been made possible through the establishment and efficient operation of modern waste-processing facilities, notably the Shivari Solid Waste Management Plant, which has enhanced the city’s capacity to process municipal refuse in a structured and environmentally sound manner. Measures such as door-to-door collection, segregation of waste at the source, and the adoption of composting and waste-to-energy methods have played a crucial role in achieving this objective.
From the standpoint of public health and civic administration, the elimination of fresh waste dumping is of considerable importance. It contributes to the prevention of land degradation, reduces the risk of groundwater contamination, and mitigates the spread of disease arising from unhygienic waste disposal practices. Moreover, it represents a progressive step toward cleaner urban surroundings and improved quality of life for the inhabitants of the city.
The attainment of this status places Lucknow in a position of prominence and sets a commendable example for other urban centres in Uttar Pradesh. It underscores the value of disciplined municipal planning and sustained administrative effort in addressing the long-standing challenges associated with urban waste management.
5. Under which Article was the UCC Ordinance 2026 implemented in Uttarakhand?
Answer : Article 213
Uttarakhand Implements Uniform Civil Code Ordinance 2026 Under Article 213
In a landmark move, the state of Uttarakhand has promulgated the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Ordinance 2026, aiming to bring uniformity to personal laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption across all communities. The ordinance was issued by the Governor of Uttarakhand under Article 213 of the Constitution of India, which empowers the Governor to promulgate ordinances when the state legislature is not in session.
The UCC Ordinance 2026 is part of a broader initiative to simplify and modernize personal law in the state, ensuring equal rights and obligations for all citizens regardless of religion. By standardizing civil laws, the state seeks to address disparities in legal practices across different communities and promote social harmony.
This step has drawn nationwide attention, as Uttarakhand becomes one of the first states to take concrete legislative action toward implementing a uniform civil code. Legal experts note that the ordinance reflects the constitutional provision under Article 44, which encourages the state to strive for a common set of civil laws.
The ordinance will remain in effect until it is either ratified, amended, or replaced by a full-fledged legislation passed by the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly. Stakeholders from legal, social, and religious circles are expected to engage in discussions to ensure that the transition to a uniform civil code is smooth, inclusive, and constitutionally sound.
6. Where was Indian Railways’ first humanoid robot ‘ASC Arjun’ deployed?
Answer : Visakhapatnam
Indian Railways Deploys First Humanoid Robot ‘ASC Arjun’ at Visakhapatnam
In a pioneering initiative, Indian Railways has deployed its first humanoid robot, ‘ASC Arjun’, at Visakhapatnam Railway Station in Andhra Pradesh. Developed to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency, the robot is part of the Railway Protection Force’s modernization drive.
‘ASC Arjun’ is designed to assist in crowd management, passenger guidance, safety monitoring, and security checks. Equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence capabilities, the robot can interact with passengers, provide information, and alert authorities in case of emergencies.
This deployment underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to integrating technology into public services and improving overall station management. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for future adoption of AI-driven robotics across major railway stations in the country.
7. Which state launched India’s first Menopause Clinic?
Answer : Maharashtra
Maharashtra Launches India’s First Menopause Clinics
In a pioneering step for women’s healthcare, the Government of Maharashtra has launched India’s first dedicated menopause clinics. The initiative aims to provide comprehensive care and support for women undergoing menopause, addressing both medical and psychological aspects of this important life stage.
The clinics, established in select government hospitals across the state, offer specialized consultations, health screenings, counseling, and treatment for symptoms related to menopause, such as hormonal changes, bone health issues, cardiovascular risks, and mental well-being. This initiative ensures women have access to integrated, gender-sensitive healthcare services under one roof.
Officials highlight that the launch of these clinics marks a significant move toward promoting awareness, early intervention, and improved quality of life for midlife women. Maharashtra’s effort is expected to serve as a model for other states in India to prioritize holistic women’s health services.