National Governance: Inauguration of Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan
On February 13, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the state-of-the-art building complexes 'Seva Teerth' and 'Kartavya Bhavan-1 & 2'. These complexes represent a transformative milestone in India’s administrative architecture. Seva Teerth will now house the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat. Kartavya Bhavan-1 & 2 will accommodate several key ministries, including Finance, Defence, and Health, consolidating fragmented offices into a modern, digitally integrated ecosystem to enhance operational efficiency.
Defence: ₹3.25 Lakh Crore Rafale Deal Cleared
In a significant boost to the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Union Government has officially cleared a mega defence deal worth ₹3.25 lakh crore for the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets. This move is aimed at addressing the depleting squadron strength of the IAF and ensuring strategic air superiority in the region. The deal includes a substantial 'Make in India' component, focusing on long-term maintenance and technology transfer.
Legislative News: Parliament Passes Industrial Relations Code (Amendment) Bill
The Parliament has passed the Industrial Relations Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026, following a voice vote in both Houses. Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stated that the amendment aims to provide legal clarity on labour issues and ensure minimum wage guarantees and uniform wages across genders. While the government termed it a "historic reform," opposition leaders expressed concerns regarding workers' rights and job security.
Economy & Trade: 'Viksit Bharat' and Trade Surplus
The government announced that strategic trade agreements currently being negotiated with the US, UK, and EU are set to accelerate the Viksit Bharat 2047 mission. Additionally, an SBI report projected that India’s annual trade surplus with the United States could soon exceed $90 billion. Meanwhile, retail inflation for January was recorded at 2.75% under the newly implemented CPI series.
Sports: India Triumphs in T20 World Cup 2026
In the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, India secured its second consecutive victory by defeating Namibia by 93 runs. In shooting, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar bagged gold as India swept the podium in the Men’s 50m Rifle 3P event at the Asian Championship.
International Briefs
- Bangladesh: General elections concluded amid sporadic violence; India is monitoring the political transition closely.
- India-AI Impact Summit: MEA confirmed that Brazilian President Lula da Silva and French President Emmanuel Macron will attend the upcoming summit in New Delhi.
- Cambodia: Authorities busted a major 'digital arrest' scam hub where fake Indian police uniforms and Gandhi portraits were being used to defraud citizens.