Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 28th February 2026

Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 28th February 2026

1. Launch of Digital Food Currency Pilot in Puducherry

The Indian government rolled out a pioneering pilot for the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)-based Digital Food Currency in Puducherry under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). This initiative allows direct transfers of food subsidies to beneficiaries’ CBDC wallets, replacing the traditional bank account system. The pilot aims to ensure seamless, transparent, and efficient distribution of food subsidies, further empowering citizens and promoting digital financial inclusion.

2. PM Modi’s Free HPV Vaccination Drive

In a significant move towards public health, PM Narendra Modi launched a nationwide free HPV vaccination drive in Ajmer, targeting 14-year-old girls across India. The drive is aimed at preventing cervical cancer by administering the Gardasil vaccine. This initiative aligns with the vision of promoting Swastha Nari (Healthy Women), supporting India’s efforts to combat preventable diseases and improve the health of future generations.

3. Brahmaputra Waterway Infrastructure Projects

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched three major inland waterway infrastructure projects along National Waterway-2 (River Brahmaputra) in Assam. The projects include the development of customs complexes at Bogibeel and Dhubri, facilitating improved logistics for cross-border trade with Bangladesh. This initiative is expected to boost regional connectivity, trade, and economic activity in the northeastern region of India.

4. Mission Basundhara 3.0 in Assam

In a step towards securing land rights for indigenous families, Assam launched Mission Basundhara 3.0, a land rights distribution scheme. Over 1 lakh indigenous families and institutions are set to receive land pattas, resolving historical land disputes and promoting transparency in governance. The scheme aims to ensure equitable land distribution, reinforcing the region’s socio-economic fabric.

5. SWIFT 2.0 Digital Platform by CBIC

On International Customs Day, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) unveiled SWIFT 2.0, a digital single-window platform designed to streamline customs clearance for both imports and exports. Along with this, the revamped Atithi app was launched to assist international passengers. This initiative will enhance trade facilitation and ease of doing business in India.

6. US Bans AI Startup Anthropic

In international news, the US government imposed sanctions on the AI startup Anthropic, citing it as a national security “supply chain risk.” This move mirrors previous sanctions placed on China’s Huawei, underscoring the increasing tension around the control and security of emerging technologies. The sanction underscores the US’s growing focus on cybersecurity and the strategic implications of artificial intelligence.

7. Exercise Vayushakti-26: A Major Milestone in Defense

In the realm of defense, President Droupadi Murmu witnessed Exercise Vayushakti-26 at Pokhran, a major air force drill that featured over 130 aircraft, including Rafale, Prachand, and Akash surface-to-air missile systems. The exercise showcased India’s airpower capabilities and its growing prowess in Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) in defense. President Murmu also became the first Indian President to fly the indigenously developed Prachand helicopter, highlighting the nation’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities.

8. UAE Launches First Sovereign Financial Cloud

In global tech developments, the UAE Central Bank unveiled the world’s first AI-powered sovereign financial cloud, Core42, designed to ensure strict data sovereignty and bolster cybersecurity. The initiative marks a significant step towards digital transformation in the banking sector, ensuring the resilience of the UAE’s financial systems.

9. INS Tarangini in Sri Lanka Under ‘Bridges of Friendship’ Initiative

India’s INS Tarangini, the sail training ship, arrived in Sri Lanka at Trincomalee to train Sri Lankan naval officers. This visit, part of the ‘Bridges of Friendship’ initiative, is a significant step in strengthening bilateral maritime cooperation and advancing naval diplomacy between India and Sri Lanka.

10. National Science Day: Celebrating Scientific Innovation

On National Science Day, Amit Shah, the Home Minister, paid tribute to the legendary Indian scientist C.V. Raman, marking his discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’. The day emphasized the need for fostering a scientific temper among the youth and driving India’s technological innovation. It serves as a reminder of the country’s legacy in scientific research and the potential for future breakthroughs.

11. Tribute to Chandrashekhar Azad on Martyrdom Day

On Chandrashekhar Azad’s Martyrdom Day, PM Modi paid homage to the revolutionary freedom fighter, remembering his immense sacrifice and key role in the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and the Kakori Train Action. This day is a reminder of the relentless fight for India’s independence and the bravery of its freedom fighters.