Current Affairs 06/02/2026
1. Which state recently became India’s renewable energy powerhouse with a 16.5% share?
Answer : Gujarat
Gujarat: India’s Renewable Energy Powerhouse
Gujarat has emerged as a leading force in India’s clean energy transition, securing its position as the country’s renewable energy powerhouse with a 16.5% share of India’s total installed renewable energy capacity. This achievement reflects the state’s long-term policy focus, strong infrastructure development, and investor-friendly environment.
The state’s success is largely driven by its vast solar and wind energy potential. Gujarat hosts some of the largest solar parks in the country, including large-scale projects in arid regions such as Kutch and Patan, while its long coastline provides ideal conditions for wind energy generation. Together, these resources have enabled Gujarat to consistently add renewable capacity at a rapid pace.
Government initiatives have played a crucial role. Proactive policies, streamlined land acquisition processes, reliable grid infrastructure, and timely clearances have attracted significant domestic and international investment. Gujarat has also been a pioneer in hybrid renewable projects, combining solar and wind power to ensure more stable energy output.
In addition, the state is expanding into emerging areas such as green hydrogen, energy storage, and renewable energy manufacturing, aligning with India’s broader climate commitments and net-zero goals. These efforts are strengthening Gujarat’s role not just as a power producer, but as a comprehensive clean energy hub.
With sustained policy support and continued investment, Gujarat is expected to remain at the forefront of India’s renewable energy growth, contributing significantly to energy security, economic development, and climate action.
2. Which country will host the first Global Big Cat Summit?
Answer : India
India to Host the First Global Big Cat Summit
India has been selected to host the first Global Big Cat Summit, marking a significant milestone in international wildlife conservation efforts. The summit aims to bring together governments, conservation experts, international organizations, and policymakers to develop a coordinated global strategy for the protection of big cats.
The event will be organized under the framework of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), an initiative launched by India to promote collaboration among big cat range countries. The summit will focus on conservation challenges faced by species such as tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas, many of which are threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.
India’s selection as the host reflects its strong track record in wildlife conservation, particularly through successful programs like Project Tiger, which has helped the country achieve the largest tiger population in the world. The summit will provide a global platform to share best practices, strengthen transboundary cooperation, mobilize financial resources, and promote capacity building for big cat conservation.
By hosting the first Global Big Cat Summit, India reinforces its leadership role in biodiversity protection and environmental diplomacy. The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to global conservation goals while highlighting the importance of preserving big cats as keystone species essential for maintaining ecological balance.
3. Where was the ‘Agni Pariksha’ joint exercise conducted?
Answer : Arunachal Pradesh
‘Agni Pariksha’ Joint Exercise Conducted in Arunachal Pradesh
The ‘Agni Pariksha’ joint exercise was conducted in Arunachal Pradesh, underscoring India’s focus on strengthening operational preparedness and inter-force coordination in strategically important regions. The exercise was carried out jointly by the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) in challenging high-altitude and mountainous terrain.
The primary objective of Agni Pariksha was to enhance synergy, combat readiness, and interoperability between the two forces while operating in difficult border conditions. Troops practiced a range of tactical drills, including counter-insurgency operations, area domination, joint patrols, surveillance, and coordinated response to security threats.
Conducting the exercise in Arunachal Pradesh holds strategic significance due to the state’s sensitive border location and complex terrain. Training in such an environment helps forces adapt to harsh weather, limited infrastructure, and high-altitude operational challenges, thereby improving real-time decision-making and coordination.
Overall, the Agni Pariksha exercise reflects India’s commitment to border security, joint force integration, and operational excellence, contributing to enhanced national security and preparedness along the eastern frontier.
4. Who has been appointed as the new Chief General Manager of Union Bank of India?
Answer : Sarvesh Ranjan
Sarvesh Ranjan Appointed as Chief General Manager of Union Bank of India
Union Bank of India has appointed Sarvesh Ranjan as its new Chief General Manager (CGM), marking an important leadership development in the bank’s senior management. The appointment reflects the bank’s focus on strengthening governance, operational efficiency, and strategic oversight amid a rapidly evolving banking environment.
Sarvesh Ranjan brings with him extensive experience in the banking sector, having served Union Bank of India in various key roles over the years. Prior to his elevation as Chief General Manager, he held senior positions that involved critical responsibilities in areas such as risk management, compliance, transaction monitoring, and administrative oversight, contributing significantly to the bank’s institutional stability.
As Chief General Manager, he is expected to play a vital role in policy implementation, operational supervision, and strategic decision-making, supporting the bank’s growth objectives and regulatory commitments. His appointment comes at a time when public sector banks are focusing on digital transformation, improved asset quality, and enhanced customer-centric services.
The elevation of Sarvesh Ranjan underscores Union Bank of India’s emphasis on experienced internal leadership to ensure continuity, strengthen internal systems, and guide the organization through emerging challenges in India’s financial sector.
5. When is World Wetlands Day observed?
Answer : 2 February
World Wetlands Day: Observed on 2 February
World Wetlands Day is observed every year on 2 February to raise global awareness about the vital role wetlands play in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. The day marks the anniversary of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, which was adopted on 2 February 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.
Wetlands—such as marshes, mangroves, lakes, rivers, peatlands, and coastal lagoons—provide essential ecosystem services. They help in water purification, flood control, groundwater recharge, and climate change mitigation, while also serving as critical habitats for a wide variety of plant and animal species.
The observance of World Wetlands Day highlights the growing threats to wetlands, including urbanization, pollution, climate change, and unsustainable resource use. Governments, environmental organizations, and communities use this occasion to promote conservation initiatives, policy action, and sustainable management practices.
By commemorating World Wetlands Day on 2 February, the international community reinforces its commitment to protecting wetlands as indispensable ecosystems for environmental sustainability and human well-being.
6. Who became Maybelline New York’s brand ambassador for India?
Answer : Kiara Advani
Kiara Advani Appointed as Maybelline New York’s Brand Ambassador for India
Maybelline New York has appointed Kiara Advani as its new brand ambassador for India, strengthening the global beauty brand’s presence in one of its fastest-growing markets. The association reflects Maybelline’s focus on contemporary Indian consumers and its commitment to inclusivity, confidence, and self-expression.
Kiara Advani, one of India’s most prominent film personalities, is widely recognized for her versatile on-screen performances and strong connect with younger audiences. Her modern appeal, combined with a confident and relatable public image, aligns closely with Maybelline New York’s brand philosophy of empowering individuals to express themselves through beauty.
As brand ambassador, Kiara Advani will represent Maybelline New York across marketing campaigns, product launches, and digital initiatives in India. The collaboration is expected to enhance the brand’s engagement with Indian consumers, particularly in the areas of cosmetics innovation, trend-led products, and social media outreach.
This appointment underscores Maybelline New York’s strategy of partnering with influential personalities who embody confidence and authenticity, while reinforcing its position as a leading cosmetics brand in the Indian beauty and personal care market.
7. A new species of orchid was discovered in which state?
Answer : Kerala
New Species of Orchid Discovered in Kerala
A new species of orchid has been discovered in Kerala, highlighting the state’s exceptional botanical diversity and the ecological significance of the Western Ghats. The discovery adds to India’s rich floral heritage and reinforces Kerala’s position as a key region for plant biodiversity and scientific research.
The orchid was identified during systematic field studies conducted in forested and ecologically sensitive areas of the state. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide ideal conditions for orchid diversity due to their humid climate, varied altitudes, and dense forest ecosystems. Many orchid species in this region are endemic, making such discoveries scientifically important.
Orchids are considered important indicator species, as their presence reflects the health of forest ecosystems. The discovery of a new species emphasizes the need for habitat conservation, ecological monitoring, and protection of fragile forest environments, especially in the face of climate change and human intervention.
This finding not only contributes to botanical science but also underscores the importance of continued research and conservation efforts in Kerala, ensuring that its unique plant species are documented and preserved for future generations.