Daily Current Affairs — 2 February 2026
6 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
The Changing Landscape of Ecology Research
Context AI, remote sensing, and big data are changing ecological research, with fieldwork increasingly supported or replaced by computer-based, data-driven methods. Ecology research with traditional field-based approach Classical ecology relied on direct field observations, specimen collection, and long-term monitoring of ecosystems. Also the fieldwork enabled contextual understanding of species interactions, habitat conditions, and ecological processes.
Marginal Hike For Agriculture
In News Farmer organisations across the political spectrum criticised the Union Budget 2026–27. Agricultural Sector Announcements in Union Budget 2026–27 The Union Budget 2026–27 has increased the allocation for the agriculture sector by 2.6%, adding about ₹3,000 crore compared to last year, even as the Economic Survey reported a slowdown in agricultural growth. The Finance Minister proposed ₹1.3 lakh crore for agriculture, slightly higher than the 2025–26 Budget Estimate and the Revised Estimat
Government Constituted Panel to look at AI Impact on Jobs and Services
Context Union Finance Minister in her Budget Speech said a high-level ‘Education to Employment and Enterprise’ Standing Committee will be formed to recommend measures that focus on the services sector. Terms of reference of the high-level standing committee, according to Budget documents Identify services sub-sectors with potential for growth, employment and exports. Assess the impact of emerging technologies, including AI, on jobs and skill requirements.
FM Tables 16th Finance Commission Report
In News The 16th Finance Commission, constituted in 2023 under the chairmanship of Dr. Arvind Panagariya has had its key recommendations accepted by the Government for implementation during 2026–27 to 2030–31. What is the Finance Commission?
AI-powered Toys
Context The novel AI-powered toy “companions” are available on popular e-commerce platforms. What are AI Toys? AI toys require internet connectivity to work and can take on the form-factor of plush aliens, fluffy animals, or friendly-faced robots.
Union Budget 2026: Key Highlights
Context Recently, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-2027 in Parliament. Key Highlights of Union Budget 2026–27 It is the first Union Budget prepared in Kartavya Bhawan, and the Finance Minister underscored it is guided by three kartavya (duties) to accelerate growth, build people’s capacity, and ensure inclusive development. text Read More