Current Affairs 13/02/2026
1. What is the rank of India in the Corruption Perception Index 2025?
Answer : 91st
India has been placed at the 91st position in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025, as published by Transparency International. The Index, which evaluates perceived levels of corruption in the public sector, covers 182 countries and territories and remains one of the most authoritative global indicators on governance standards.
India has secured a score of 39 out of 100, on a scale where 0 denotes a highly corrupt public sector and 100 signifies a very clean one. The assessment is based upon a compilation of expert evaluations and business surveys, thereby reflecting informed perceptions rather than direct measurements of corruption.
In the traditional view of public administration, corruption is regarded as a grave impediment to national development, economic progress, and public trust. India’s position at 91st suggests that, despite ongoing reforms and institutional mechanisms aimed at promoting transparency and accountability, significant challenges persist within the administrative and regulatory framework.
Over the years, the Government of India has undertaken various initiatives to strengthen anti-corruption measures, including digitalization of services, enhancement of vigilance mechanisms, and reforms in procurement systems. Nevertheless, the CPI ranking indicates the necessity for continued vigilance, stricter enforcement of existing laws, and reinforcement of ethical standards within public life.
Historically, nations that perform better in the Index are characterized by strong rule of law, independent oversight institutions, transparent governance structures, and an active civil society. For India, sustained administrative reform, judicial efficiency, and institutional integrity will remain essential in improving its standing in future assessments.
In conclusion, the Corruption Perceptions Index 2025 serves as a reminder that the advancement of good governance and the eradication of corruption are continuous processes requiring collective effort from the State, institutions, and citizens alike.
2. Which State/UT government has announced the launch of Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana replacing the old Ladli Scheme?
Answer : Delhi
The Government of Delhi has announced the launch of the Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana, replacing the earlier Ladli Scheme, with the objective of strengthening financial security and educational support for girl children. The new initiative reflects a renewed policy focus on women’s empowerment and long-term socio-economic inclusion.
The Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana is designed to provide structured financial assistance to eligible girl beneficiaries through phased deposits linked to educational milestones. The scheme aims to ensure that by the time a beneficiary completes her schooling, the accumulated financial support can amount to approximately ₹1 lakh or more, thereby assisting in higher education or other developmental needs.
The replacement of the Ladli Scheme signifies the government’s intent to modernize welfare delivery mechanisms and align financial assistance with inflationary trends and contemporary socio-economic requirements. By directly supporting girls’ education and welfare, the scheme seeks to reduce dropout rates, discourage early marriage, and promote gender equality.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen direct benefit transfer systems, ensuring transparency and minimizing administrative leakages. Through this reform, the Delhi government reiterates its commitment to inclusive growth, female literacy, and long-term empowerment of women in the national capital territory.
In broader policy terms, the Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana represents a strategic step toward fostering educational continuity, financial independence, and enhanced opportunities for young girls, thereby contributing to sustainable social development.
3. The central government has recently granted Ex-Servicemen status to officers of which service?
Answer : Military Nursing Service
In a noteworthy policy decision of recent times, the Government of India has been pleased to accord Ex-Servicemen status to officers of the Military Nursing Service. This measure has been effected through suitable amendments to the Ex-Servicemen (Re-employment in Central Civil Services and Posts) Rules, 1979, thereby extending formal recognition to a distinguished cadre of commissioned officers serving within the Armed Forces medical establishment.
The Military Nursing Service constitutes an essential component of the defence medical services of the Union. Its officers, being commissioned members of the Armed Forces, have for decades rendered devoted service in military hospitals, field units, and operational areas, often under arduous and demanding conditions. Their duties encompass not merely clinical care but also participation in emergency response, disaster relief, and wartime medical operations.
By granting Ex-Servicemen status, the Government has placed officers of the Military Nursing Service at par with their counterparts in the Army, Navy, and Air Force for purposes of post-retirement benefits. The recognition entitles them to reservations in re-employment under Central Government services, age relaxations, and access to welfare measures designed for former members of the Armed Forces.
From an administrative standpoint, this decision rectifies a long-standing anomaly and affirms the principle that all commissioned officers who have faithfully served the nation under military discipline merit equal acknowledgment. It further reflects the State’s resolve to uphold equity, fairness, and institutional dignity within the defence services.
In conclusion, the extension of Ex-Servicemen status to officers of the Military Nursing Service stands as a measure of due recognition, honouring their steadfast dedication and reinforcing the broader framework of veteran welfare in the Republic.
4. In which state was the first-ever Economic Survey presented in the Legislative Assembly recently?
Answer : Uttar Pradesh
The State of Uttar Pradesh has recently achieved a significant legislative milestone with the presentation of its first-ever Economic Survey in the State Legislative Assembly. The document was tabled ahead of the annual Budget Session, marking a historic step in institutionalizing structured economic reporting at the state level.
Traditionally, the practice of presenting an Economic Survey has been associated with the Union Government, where it serves as a comprehensive review of macroeconomic performance prior to the Union Budget. By adopting this mechanism, Uttar Pradesh has aligned its fiscal governance practices with established national standards, thereby enhancing transparency and policy accountability.
The Economic Survey provides a detailed assessment of the state’s economic performance during the previous financial year. It examines key indicators such as Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), sectoral growth trends, agricultural output, industrial expansion, infrastructure development, employment patterns, and social sector progress. The report also outlines fiscal management strategies, revenue performance, and public expenditure priorities.
From a policy perspective, the presentation of the Economic Survey enables informed legislative debate and data-driven decision-making. It offers lawmakers, administrators, and stakeholders a structured overview of economic achievements and challenges, thereby facilitating evidence-based planning for the forthcoming fiscal year.
The initiative reflects Uttar Pradesh’s growing emphasis on systematic economic evaluation and strategic development planning. By institutionalizing the practice of presenting an Economic Survey, the state government has taken a progressive step toward strengthening fiscal discipline, improving governance transparency, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
5. Who has been appointed as the Northeast Adviser to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs?
Answer : Ajit Lal
The Union Government has appointed Ajit Lal as the Northeast Adviser to the Ministry of Home Affairs, entrusting him with a crucial role in overseeing policy coordination and peace initiatives in the Northeastern region of India.
The position of Northeast Adviser holds considerable strategic importance, given the region’s unique socio-political landscape, security concerns, and ongoing peace negotiations with various groups. In his new capacity, Ajit Lal will assist the Ministry in matters relating to internal security, conflict resolution, and developmental coordination across the Northeastern states.
The Northeastern region, comprising eight states, has historically witnessed complex challenges, including insurgency movements, border management issues, and ethnic sensitivities. The Adviser’s role involves facilitating dialogue, strengthening cooperation between the Centre and state governments, and supporting initiatives aimed at long-term peace and stability.
Ajit Lal brings with him extensive administrative and security experience, which is expected to contribute significantly to ongoing peace processes and governance reforms in the region. His appointment reflects the Government’s continued focus on enhancing stability, accelerating development, and promoting inclusive growth in the Northeast.
The move is widely viewed as part of a broader strategy to consolidate peace efforts, strengthen institutional engagement, and ensure effective policy implementation in one of India’s most strategically important regions.
6. Which cricket team set a new record for the highest partnership in T20 World Cup history (175 runs)?
Answer : New Zealand
The New Zealand national cricket team has etched its name into the record books by registering the highest partnership in ICC T20 World Cup history, amassing a remarkable 175-run stand. The historic feat was accomplished during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, underscoring New Zealand’s formidable batting prowess on the global stage.
The record-breaking partnership was forged by opening batters Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, who combined aggressive stroke play with disciplined shot selection to dominate the opposition bowling attack. Their unbeaten 175-run alliance not only surpassed the previous tournament record but also powered New Zealand to a comprehensive victory.
From a statistical standpoint, the achievement represents a significant milestone in T20 World Cup history, where partnerships of such magnitude are rare due to the fast-paced and high-risk nature of the format. The innings was characterized by sustained momentum, effective strike rotation, and an impressive boundary count, reflecting modern T20 batting excellence.
This landmark performance further reinforces New Zealand’s reputation as a consistent contender in ICC tournaments. The team’s ability to deliver record-breaking performances in high-pressure environments highlights both depth in batting resources and strategic execution.
In broader cricketing terms, the 175-run partnership stands as a testament to the evolving dynamics of T20 cricket, where aggressive intent, tactical awareness, and seamless coordination between partners can redefine tournament benchmarks.
7. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Kumar Bhaskarvarman Setu, it is built on which river?
Answer : Brahmaputra
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Kumar Bhaskarvarman Setu, which has been constructed over the Brahmaputra River in the state of Assam.
The bridge, built across the mighty Brahmaputra, is a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity in the northeastern region. It links important districts on the north and south banks of the river, thereby enhancing transportation, trade, and regional development.
Named after the ancient ruler Kumar Bhaskarvarman of Kamarupa, the Setu stands as a symbol of Assam’s historical legacy and modern infrastructural advancement. The project is expected to reduce travel time, boost economic activities, and strengthen strategic connectivity in the Northeast.
The inauguration marks another milestone in the Government’s broader vision of accelerating infrastructure growth and integrating the Northeastern states more closely with the rest of the country.