• 07 Feb 2026

India’s First Indigenous Green Urea Plant in Andhra Pradesh

Why in News? 

India’s first large‑scale indigenous green urea plant will be developed and operationalized at the Pudimadaka Green Hydrogen Hub in Andhra Pradesh. 

Key Points: 

• Strategic MoU: NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL), a subsidiary of NTPC Ltd., and Assago Industries Pvt. Ltd. have signed a MoU. 
  • Under the agreement, NGEL will supply green ammonia, renewable electricity, CO₂, and other utilities to Assago. 
• Objective: To produce green urea using green hydrogen and renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based ammonia. 
  • The initiative marks a significant step towards building a domestic green urea value chain, reducing dependence on imported fertilizers. 
  • Aims to create jobs, strengthen the green energy sector, and contribute to Andhra Pradesh’s industrial development. 
• Environmental Impact: Expected to significantly cut carbon emissions compared to conventional urea plants. 
  • Supports India’s Net Zero 2070 goal and the Green Hydrogen Mission under the National Hydrogen Policy. 
• Innovation: First-of-its-kind indigenous green urea technology in India, promoting self-reliance in fertilizer production. 

Read More: Net Zero 2070 goal,  Green Hydrogen Mission,  NTPC, Green ammonia   

Bhutan’s Queen Mother Honoured with ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award in Assam

Why in News? 

Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, was honoured with the 22nd Upendra Nath Brahma ‘Soldier of Humanity’ Award, 2025. 

Key Points: 

• Award: The Award was presented to the Queen Mother during an event at Bodoland University, Kokrajhar in Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region.  
  • Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya attended as the chief guest. 
• Recognition: Recognises her humanitarian service, social welfare, women’s empowerment, education, healthcare and rural development, particularly through her leadership of the Tarayana Foundation. 
• Trust: The award is instituted by the Upendra Nath Brahma Trust in memory of Upendra Nath Brahma, a respected Bodo social reformer and leader. 
• Impact: The ceremony strengthened India–Bhutan people‑to‑people ties, highlighting shared values of compassion, dignity, and inclusive growth between the two neighbouring nations. 
• Leadership Role: As the founding president of the Tarayana Foundation, she has championed holistic community‑based development across Bhutan, particularly in rural and underserved regions.  

Read More: Bodoland 

Odisha Launches Black Swan Summit 2026

Why in News? 

The Government of Odisha has launched the Black Swan Summit India 2026 in Bhubaneswar as part of the BharatNetra initiative. 

Key Points: 

• Partnership: The summit is organised by the Odisha government in collaboration with the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) under the BharatNetra initiative. 
  • Aimed at building digital finance infrastructure and workforce capabilities. 
• Objective: Build a future-ready workforce in FinTech, InsurTech, and artificial intelligence (AI). 
  • A five-month hybrid FinTech & InsurTech training programme developed with National University of Singapore’s Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS‑AIDF). 
• Global Participation: Delegates and experts from across the world are participating. 
  • Facilitating global discussions on policy, innovation, and investment opportunities in the FinTech and InsurTech sectors. 
• Economic and Strategic Impact: The summit supports Odisha’s vision to become a global hub for digital finance, innovation, and skills development, aligning with broader goals of economic growth, financial inclusion, and technology‑led job creation. 
• AI and Technology Focus: It also covers artificial intelligence, tokenisation, quantum computing, and digital infrastructure, reinforcing the state’s commitment to technology‑driven growth. 

 

Read More: Artificial intelligence, Quantum computing,  Financial inclusion 

PLASTINDIA 2026 BEGINS IN NEW DELHI

Why in News? 

PLASTINDIA 2026, one of the world’s largest plastics exhibitions, commenced in February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. 

Key Points: 

• Event: It is the 12th edition of the triennial mega event of the plastics industry, PLASTINDIA 2026. 
  • The event is structured around five strategic pillars — Trade, Technology, Talent, Tradition, and Tourism, emphasising industry growth, innovation, skill development, and cultural integration. 
• Organisers: Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, in collaboration with Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). 
• Theme : PLASTINDIA 2026 is held under the theme “Bharat Next”. 
  • Aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat , aimed at strengthening the domestic plastics industry and manufacturing ecosystem.  
• Sustainability Focus: For the first time, It is being organised as a Zero Waste Exhibition, ensuring segregation, recycling, and reuse of all solid waste generated at the event. 

Read More:  Atmanirbhar Bharat, Viksit Bharat, MSME 

Kerala CM Launched Invasive Species Detection App

Why in News?  

Kerala has officially launched NeophyteID, an AI-powered mobile application designed to detect and track invasive plant species across the state. 

Key Points: 

• Launch & Developers: Officially launched on 2nd February, 2026, by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the app was developed by the Malabar Botanical Garden and Institute for Plant Sciences (MBGIPS). 
• AI Technology: Utilizing the YOLOv11 machine learning model, the tool provides real-time identification and geospatial tracking for nearly 98 invasive species in Kerala. 
• Functionality & Access: Users can photograph plants for instant, data-driven identification in both English and Malayalam.  
• Ecological Impact: NeophyteID aims to prevent the destruction of native plants during eradication efforts.  
• Data-Driven Conservation: The use of AI and geospatial tracking provides researchers with data-rich insights into invasive species distribution patterns — critical for planning removal and restoration strategies. 

Karnataka Reports First Death from Kyasanur Forest Disease

Why in News? 

The first death from Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)—commonly known as ‘Monkey Fever’— was reported recently in Karnataka, raising concerns as the seasonal tick‑borne viral infection intensifies in forest‑fringe districts. 

Key Points: 

• Cause & Transmission: KFD is a tick‑borne viral haemorrhagic fever transmitted to humans through the bite of infected hard ticks (Haemaphysalis spinigera) and contact with infected or dead forest animals, such as monkeys. 
  • It does not spread human‑to‑human. 
• Vector & Hosts: The disease cycle involves ticks and forest animals including monkeys, rodents, and squirrels. 
  • Humans are incidental hosts who get infected mainly through tick bites or contact with infected animal tissues. 
• Symptoms: After an incubation period of 3–8 days, early signs include sudden fever, chills, severe headache, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. 
  • More severe manifestations can include bleeding (nose, gums), neurological effects, tremors, poor vision, and low blood counts. 
• Fatality & Treatment: The case fatality rate ranges from about 2–10%, depending on early detection and supportive medical care. 
  • There is no specific antiviral cure exists, and treatment is mostly supportive, focusing on symptom management.  
• Prevention: Avoid forest exposure in high-risk season, wear protective clothing, use tick repellents, avoid contact with sick/dead animals, seek early medical attention. 
  Public Health Response: Awareness campaigns and surveillance efforts are vital to early detection and control of sporadic KFD cases in endemic regions of Karnataka and neighbouring states. 

Read More: Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) 

Jammu & Kashmir Budget 2026-27

Why in News?

On 6 February 2026, Jammu and Kashmir Government Chief Minister and Finance Minister Omar Abdullah presented the Union Territory’s annual budget for the fiscal year 2026–27 in the Legislative Assembly. 

Key Points:

• Macro-Economic Aggregates & Fiscal Position: The total budget outlay for 2026-27 is estimated at ₹1,27,767 crore. 
• Gross Budget Estimates: ~₹1,27,767 crore (including advances and overdrafts). 
• Net Budget Estimates: ₹1,13,767 crore (excluding overdrafts/Ways & Means). 
  • Revenue Expenditure: ~₹80,640 crore. 
  • Capital Expenditure: ~₹33,127 crore. 
• Revenue Structure 
  • Own Revenues: ~₹31,800 crore estimated from tax and non-tax sources. 
  • Central Assistance: ~₹42,752 crore, plus ₹13,400 crore under Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS). 
  • Projected GSDP Growth: ~9.5%.  
• GSDP Growth: Projected at 9.5%, with the nominal GSDP expected to reach ₹3,15,822 crore. 
• Fiscal Deficit: Targeted at 3.69% of GSDP, aligning with the FRBM Act guidelines. 
• Sectoral Allocations (Top Priorities):The budget follows a "Bottom-Up" approach, prioritizing rural infrastructure and human capital. 
  • Infrastructure & Roads: Allocated ₹6,528 crore. Key projects include the Z-Morh Tunnel and connecting "unconnected" habitations under PMGSY. 
  • Health & Medical Education: Allocated ₹1,866 crore (Capital). A major milestone is the scheduled commissioning of AIIMS Awantipora (Kashmir) by June 2026. 
  • Agriculture & Allied Sectors: Allocated ₹1,878 crore. The focus remains on the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), aiming to create 2.87 lakh jobs in the sector. 
  • Education: Earmarked ₹1,513 crore (Capital) to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and upgrade 2,000 schools into "Smart Schools." 
• Major Welfare Initiatives & Social Security:The Chief Minister announced 32 New Welfare Measures aimed at the most vulnerable populations. 
  • AAY Support: Six free LPG cylinders per year for Antyodaya Anna Yojana families. 
  • Education for All: Full tuition fee waiver for AAY students in Classes 9–12 and Government Degree Colleges. 
  • Marriage Assistance: The State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) grant increased to ₹75,000. 
  • Orphan Support: A monthly stipend of ₹4,000 for orphans under non-institutional care via DBT. 
  • Transit Accommodation: Completion of 6,000 transit flats for Kashmiri Migrant employees under the PM Development Package. 
• Power Sector Reforms: J&K faces significant challenges in Transmission & Distribution (T&D) losses. 
  • Smart Metering: The budget aims for 100% smart metering in urban areas by December 2026 to curb AT&C losses. 
  • Generation: Funding provided to expedite the 850 MW Ratle and 624 MW Kiru hydroelectric projects via the Chenab Valley Power Projects (CVPPPL). 
• Tourism as an Economic Pillar: Tourism is recognized as a key driver of economic growth and employment: 
  • Proposals for Rs 180 crore allocation for Amarnath Yatra infrastructure.

Jammu & Kashmir Budget 2026-27

Why in News? 

On 6 February 2026, Jammu and Kashmir Government Chief Minister and Finance Minister Omar Abdullah presented the Union Territory’s annual budget for the fiscal year 2026–27 in the Legislative Assembly.  

Key Points: 

• Macro-Economic Aggregates & Fiscal Position: The total budget outlay for 2026-27 is estimated at ₹1,27,767 crore. 
• Gross Budget Estimates: ~₹1,27,767 crore (including advances and overdrafts). 
• Net Budget Estimates: ₹1,13,767 crore (excluding overdrafts/Ways & Means). 
  • Revenue Expenditure: ~₹80,640 crore. 
  • Capital Expenditure: ~₹33,127 crore. 
• Revenue Structure 
  • Own Revenues: ~₹31,800 crore estimated from tax and non-tax sources. 
  • Central Assistance: ~₹42,752 crore, plus ₹13,400 crore under Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS). 
  • Projected GSDP Growth: ~9.5%.  
• GSDP Growth: Projected at 9.5%, with the nominal GSDP expected to reach ₹3,15,822 crore. 
• Fiscal Deficit: Targeted at 3.69% of GSDP, aligning with the FRBM Act guidelines. 
• Sectoral Allocations (Top Priorities):The budget follows a "Bottom-Up" approach, prioritizing rural infrastructure and human capital. 
  • Infrastructure & Roads: Allocated ₹6,528 crore. Key projects include the Z-Morh Tunnel and connecting "unconnected" habitations under PMGSY. 
  • Health & Medical Education: Allocated ₹1,866 crore (Capital). A major milestone is the scheduled commissioning of AIIMS Awantipora (Kashmir) by June 2026. 
  • Agriculture & Allied Sectors: Allocated ₹1,878 crore. The focus remains on the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), aiming to create 2.87 lakh jobs in the sector. 
  • Education: Earmarked ₹1,513 crore (Capital) to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and upgrade 2,000 schools into "Smart Schools." 
• Major Welfare Initiatives & Social Security:The Chief Minister announced 32 New Welfare Measures aimed at the most vulnerable populations. 
  • AAY Support: Six free LPG cylinders per year for Antyodaya Anna Yojana families. 
  • Education for All: Full tuition fee waiver for AAY students in Classes 9–12 and Government Degree Colleges. 
  • Marriage Assistance: The State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) grant increased to ₹75,000. 
  • Orphan Support: A monthly stipend of ₹4,000 for orphans under non-institutional care via DBT. 
  • Transit Accommodation: Completion of 6,000 transit flats for Kashmiri Migrant employees under the PM Development Package. 
• Power Sector Reforms: J&K faces significant challenges in Transmission & Distribution (T&D) losses. 
  • Smart Metering: The budget aims for 100% smart metering in urban areas by December 2026 to curb AT&C losses. 
  • Generation: Funding provided to expedite the 850 MW Ratle and 624 MW Kiru hydroelectric projects via the Chenab Valley Power Projects (CVPPPL). 
• Tourism as an Economic Pillar: Tourism is recognized as a key driver of economic growth and employment: 
  • Proposals for Rs 180 crore allocation for Amarnath Yatra infrastructure. 

West Bengal Budget 2026‑27

Why in News? 

The West Bengal government presented its interim Budget 2026‑27 in the State Assembly, outlining a Rs 4.06 lakh crore expenditure plan that emphasizes social welfare schemes, economic support for women and youth, enhanced revenue targets, and expenditure growth amid preparations for upcoming assembly elections.  

Key Points: 

• Budget Outlook: The interim budget for 2026‑27 was tabled at Rs 4.06 lakh crore, with total estimated expenditure pegged at Rs 3.96 lakh crore, reflecting a 14.2 % rise over revised estimates for 2025‑26.  
  • Total Revenue Receipt: 2,87,791 Crore 
  • Total Capital Receipt: 1,08,288 Crore 
  • Total Revenue Expenditure: 3,09,551 Crore 
  • Total Capital Expenditure: 86,533 Crore 
• Budget Expenditure: 
  • General Services: 94,389 Crore 
  • Social Services: 1,80,862 Crore 
  • Economic Services: 73773 Crore 
• Budget Allocation in Important Sectors:  
  • Agriculture and Allied Activities: 24,312.97 Crore 
  • Rural Development: 15,919.76 Crore 
  • Irrigation and Flood Control: 5,858.95 Crore 
  • Energy: 5,372.50 Crore 
  • Industry and Minerals: 2,842.96 Crore 
  • Transport: 14,388.23 Crore 
  • Science Technology and Environment: 155.94 Crore 
  • Education, Sports, Art and Culture: 51,530.62 Crore 
  • Health and Family Welfare: 23,119.21 Crore 
  • Water Supply, Sanitation, Housing and Urban Development: 45,544.00 Crore 
  • Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes: 6,915.37 Crore 
  • Social Welfare and Nutrition: 51,815.03 Crore 
• Social Welfare Priorities: Nearly 46 % of the total expenditure (around Rs 1.80 lakh crore) has been earmarked for social welfare schemes, showing the government’s focus on inclusive development. 
• Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme Expansion: The monthly grant under the Lakshmi Bhandar cash support programme for women was increased by Rs 500, boosting financial assistance to women beneficiaries from February 2026. 
• Dearness Allowance (DA) Hike: The budget proposes a 4 % increase in dearness allowance for West Bengal government employees to help offset inflationary pressures. 
• Support for Unemployed Youth: A new scheme, ‘Banglar Yuva Sathi’, was announced to provide Rs 1,500 monthly allowance to eligible unemployed youth (aged 21‑40) until they secure jobs or for up to five years. 
• Tax Revenue Growth: The budget projects own tax revenue to increase by about 6.20 %, with State GST and excise duties constituting major contributors to total tax receipts.  
• Welfare for Gig & Frontline Workers: Budget proposals include bringing gig workers under social security cover and enhancing allowances for Anganwadi and ASHA workers, alongside other welfare measures.