NEWS 15-02-2026. News For 16th-Feb (Monday) Summary of January International News • The United States moved naval, air and missile assets to the Middle East and prepared for a possible strike on Iran amid rising regional tensions and concerns over wider conflict. • China expanded strategic rail and infrastructure projects in Tibet near the Line of Actual Control, improving military mobility and raising serious security concerns for India. • The United States withdrew from the India-led International Solar Alliance as part of its broader exit from several international organisations, affecting global climate cooperation efforts. • The 16th EU–India Summit was held in New Delhi and focused on defence cooperation and progress on the proposed EU–India Free Trade Agreement. • The U.S. pushed plans to acquire Greenland, triggering strong opposition from Denmark and European allies, and increasing tensions in the strategically important Arctic region. National News • The Reserve Bank of India injected Rs 2 lakh crore liquidity into the banking system to ease financial conditions and support credit growth in the economy. • The Government announced a shift to a pro-growth fiscal policy from April 2026, focusing on managing the debt-to-GDP ratio while supporting economic expansion. • NCERT was proposed to be granted deemed-to-be university status to strengthen teacher education, curriculum research and academic autonomy. • Indian Railways prepared its first hydrogen-powered train for pilot operations on the Jind–Sonipat route, marking progress toward green and zero-emission transport. • European leaders attended the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, strengthening strategic and trade ties between India and the European Union. Defence News • India approved an approximately 8 billion dollar Project-75I plan to build six advanced AIP-equipped submarines to strengthen naval capabilities and underwater deterrence. • India planned to invest 3.4 billion dollars in building about 500 km of new railway lines near the China border to improve defence logistics and strategic preparedness. • India inaugurated an Integrated Security Hub in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to enhance maritime surveillance and rapid response in the Indian Ocean region. • India considered acquiring 114 Rafale fighter jets, with around 80 percent to be manufactured in India under the Make in India initiative. • The Indian Army decided to procure US-made V-BAT autonomous drones to enhance surveillance and intelligence gathering along sensitive borders. Sports News • Virat Kohli reclaimed the No.1 position in the ICC ODI batting rankings after nearly five years, marking a strong comeback in international cricket. • Deepti Sharma became the highest wicket-taker in Women’s T20 Internationals, achieving a major milestone for Indian women’s cricket. • The 2026 Australian Open began in Melbourne, marking the start of the international tennis season. • India secured the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, boosting its global sporting profile. • The ICC confirmed that the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup would be co-hosted by India and SriLanka with Participation of 20 teams. < < Back