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Daily Current Affairs 16 February 2026

1. Punjab National Bank launches “PNB Soldierthon 2026”

What happened:
Punjab National Bank organized “PNB Soldierthon 2026”, a marathon event to honor Indian soldiers and promote fitness and patriotism.

Why important:

  • Encourages youth participation in nation-building activities.
  • Strengthens corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Exam Tip:
PNB is one of India’s oldest public sector banks, established in 1894. Questions may come from banking awareness or static GK.


2. Stree Suraksha Scheme launched in Kerala

What happened:
The Kerala government launched the “Stree Suraksha” scheme to enhance women’s safety and empowerment through technological and legal support systems.

Why important:

  • Focus on women’s security and gender equality.
  • Supports SDG goals related to women empowerment.

Exam Tip:
State government schemes are important for Sainik School & RMS GK sections.


3. Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026 begins at Bharat Mandapam

What happened:
The Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026 started at Bharat Mandapam, focusing on artificial intelligence innovation and India’s digital future.

Why important:

  • Highlights India’s leadership in AI.
  • Supports Digital India and AI research ecosystem.

Exam Tip:
Bharat Mandapam is located in New Delhi (Pragati Maidan complex).


4. Naga community imposes pangolin hunting ban

What happened:
The Naga community voluntarily banned the hunting of pangolins to protect endangered wildlife.

Why important:

  • Pangolin is one of the most trafficked mammals globally.
  • Conservation step supports biodiversity protection.

Exam Tip:
Pangolin is protected under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule I).


5. Union Cabinet approves Brahmaputra Rail-Road Twin Tunnel Project

What happened:
The Union Cabinet approved a twin tunnel project under the Brahmaputra River to improve connectivity in Northeast India.

Why important:

  • Boosts infrastructure and defense logistics.
  • Enhances connectivity in strategically sensitive areas.

Exam Tip:
Brahmaputra flows through Arunachal Pradesh and Assam before entering Bangladesh.


6. India to host leaders at India-AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi

What happened:
India will host leaders from 20 countries at the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi.

Why important:

  • Strengthens India’s global AI leadership.
  • Promotes international collaboration in technology.

Exam Tip:
Summits hosted by India are important for international relations questions.


7. Philippine Eagle highlighted among world’s largest raptors

What happened:
The Philippine Eagle was highlighted as one of the largest and rarest birds of prey in the world.

Why important:

  • It is critically endangered.
  • Conservation awareness in Southeast Asia.

Exam Tip:
Philippine Eagle is the national bird of the Philippines.


8. Indian Navy hosting International Fleet Review 2026 at Visakhapatnam

What happened:
The Indian Navy is hosting the International Fleet Review 2026 with participation of 60 warships from 72 countries at Visakhapatnam.

Why important:

  • Demonstrates maritime strength and diplomacy.
  • Enhances global naval cooperation.

Exam Tip:
Visakhapatnam is known as the “City of Destiny” and hosts Eastern Naval Command.


9. 62nd Munich Security Conference concludes

What happened:
The 62nd Munich Security Conference concluded, discussing global security, geopolitics, and defense strategies.

Why important:

  • One of the world’s most significant security forums.
  • India regularly participates in the conference.

Exam Tip:
Held annually in Munich, Germany.


10. Presidents’ Day observed in United States on February 16

What happened:
The United States observed Presidents’ Day on February 16, honoring former US Presidents, especially George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

Why important:

  • Important US federal holiday.
  • Often asked in international GK.

Exam Tip:
Celebrated on the third Monday of February every year.

📢 Prepared by StudyBox Doon – a trusted online coaching platform for Sainik School, RMS & RIMC aspirants, providing daily exam-focused vocabulary and current affairs.