Daily Current Affairs — 16 February 2026
5 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
Refurbished Medical Devices in India: Access vs. Regulation
Context The import of refurbished high-end medical equipment has major implications for healthcare access, industry policy, and patient safety. What Are Refurbished Medical Devices? Refurbished medical devices are previously used systems that have been restored to their original operating specifications and resold at significantly lower prices.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transforming Indian Agriculture
Context India, ranked third in the world in artificial intelligence by Stanford University’s 2025 Global AI Vibrancy rankings and is increasingly using Artificial Intelligence to strengthen sustainability, and resilience in its agriculture sector. How is AI in Agriculture Critical for India? Indian agriculture faces structural constraints such as fragmented landholdings, climate variability, price volatility, and low productivity.
Bridging a Divide with an ‘Indian Scientific Service’
Context India’s generalist post-Independence service rules, once vital for nation-building, now hinder effective scientific governance in an era driven by technology and complex environmental challenges. The Core Issue Scientists entering government are governed by general civil service rules. Administrative systems prioritise hierarchy, uniformity, and procedural compliance.
Renewable Energy to Dominate India’s Grid by 2070: NITI Aayog
Context As per NITI Aayog India’s electricity mix could shift decisively from coal-heavy to renewable-led by 2070. Major Highlights of the Study Coal remains the backbone of India’s electricity landscape, accounting for nearly 74% of generation and providing dependable, low-cost base-load power. Under the Current Policy Scenario (CPS) renewable energy’s share in electricity generation could rise from around 20% in 2024-25 to more than 80% by 2070.
Bio-Based Chemicals and Enzymes: A New Frontier in India’s Bioeconomy
Context India is promoting bio-based chemicals and enzymes as key pillars of a green bioeconomy, linking climate action, industrial growth, and rural income diversification. What Are Bio-Based Chemicals and Enzymes? Bio-Based Chemicals: Bio-based chemicals are industrial chemicals produced from biological feedstocks such as sugarcane, corn, starch, agricultural residues, or other forms of biomass.