Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 7th February 2026

Daily Current Affairs Digest for UPSC & Competitive Exams | 7th February 2026

 

India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-III Ballistic Missile

On 7th February 2026, India successfully test-fired the Agni-III ballistic missile from the Odisha coast, marking a significant achievement in reinforcing its defense capabilities. This successful test validates the missile’s range, accuracy, and reliability, aligning with India’s nuclear doctrine of credible minimum deterrence. The Agni-III missile, with a range of over 3,000 kilometers, strengthens India’s defense posture and ensures its deterrence capabilities against external threats. This development underscores India’s continued focus on strengthening its strategic defense infrastructure, enhancing national security in the volatile geopolitical landscape.

United States Removes Extra 25% Tariffs on Indian Goods

In a move that signifies a thawing of relations between India and the United States, the US decided to remove the additional 25% tariffs on Indian goods starting 7th February 2026. This decision follows India’s pledge to halt Russian oil imports, a significant step in aligning with Western energy policies amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The tariff removal reflects energy-linked trade diplomacy and a strategic realignment between the two nations, facilitating enhanced economic ties and paving the way for deeper cooperation in the energy sector. This agreement further strengthens India’s position in global trade, balancing both economic growth and international diplomacy.

Iran Reaffirms Support for Chabahar Port

Despite the uncertainties brought on by US sanctions, Iran has reaffirmed its support for the Chabahar Port in its ongoing strategic partnership with India. Chabahar Port, located in southeastern Iran, plays a crucial role in connecting India with Central Asia and facilitating trade and transport links in the region. Iran’s support emphasizes the importance of Chabahar as a gateway for India to access landlocked Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. The development signals continued collaboration between India and Iran, reinforcing strategic connectivity and economic cooperation, despite the complex geopolitical environment shaped by Western sanctions.

Reserve Bank of India Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, while slightly revising its inflation forecast upwards and its GDP growth forecast higher. This move reflects the central bank’s focus on maintaining monetary policy continuity amidst global and domestic economic challenges. The RBI’s decision comes as part of its effort to keep inflation under control while supporting growth. Additionally, the RBI is emphasizing stronger consumer protection in digital banking, acknowledging the growing importance of technology in India’s banking sector and safeguarding consumers against emerging risks in the digital space.

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority Deploys Indigenous Anti-Drone System

In a significant security enhancement under the Maritime India Vision 2030, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has become the first port in India to deploy an indigenous anti-drone system. The system utilizes advanced RF (radio frequency) and radar technologies to prevent unauthorized drone activities, which could pose security threats to sensitive maritime infrastructure. This development strengthens India’s coastal security, enabling the port authority to defend against potential drone-based attacks and enhancing its capabilities for surveillance and protection. This step aligns with the government’s commitment to modernizing port infrastructure and securing India’s coastlines in line with national security objectives.

Government of India Rejects Proposal to Lower Consent Age Under POCSO Act

The Government of India has firmly rejected proposals to lower the consent age or introduce “Romeo-Juliet” exemptions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The government emphasized that 18 years will remain the uniform age of consent across the country, ensuring the safeguarding of minors from exploitation. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to upholding the rights of children and ensuring their protection from abuse. It also highlights India’s ongoing efforts to maintain stringent child protection laws, aligning with international standards for child welfare and safeguarding minors.

Goa Releases Comprehensive Bird Atlas

On 7th February 2026, Goa became the second state in India, after Kerala, to release a comprehensive Bird Atlas, contributing significantly to avian research and biodiversity conservation. This initiative aims to strengthen citizen science and provide data to assist in conservation planning in the state. The Bird Atlas, compiled through extensive field research and citizen participation, catalogues the rich diversity of bird species in Goa, serving as a valuable resource for conservationists, researchers, and policymakers. Goa’s initiative sets a precedent for other states, underscoring the importance of biodiversity conservation and environmental education.

India Wins ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup

In a triumph for Indian cricket, the Indian Under-19 Cricket Team won the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in 2026, defeating England by 100 runs in the final held in Harare. This victory marks India’s record sixth title in the prestigious youth cricket tournament, further cementing the country’s dominance in world cricket at the youth level. The win showcases the strength of India’s cricketing infrastructure and its continued focus on nurturing young talent. The victory also highlights India’s commitment to excellence in sports and the growing prominence of youth development programs in shaping the future of Indian cricket.

Conclusion

The events of 7th February 2026 underscore India’s growing prominence on the global stage in a variety of sectors, from defense and trade to economic stability, scientific innovation, and biodiversity conservation. From missile tests to cricket victories and advances in coastal security, India is making significant strides in strengthening its national security, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability. These developments also reflect India’s strategic diplomacy in navigating complex global relations, further solidifying its position as a leading player in global affairs.