Daily Current Affairs — 21 February 2026
6 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
Maritime Security of India
In News Recently, the Defence Minister called on the global maritime community to cooperate in addressing evolving and complex challenges at sea while inaugurating Exercise MILAN 2026 in Visakhapatnam, emphasizing mutual trust, shared responsibility, and adherence to international law. Maritime Security of India Maritime security involves protecting the nations sovereignty from threats arising from the oceans and seas. It includes protecting coastal areas, safeguarding the available ocean resour
India Joins Pax Silica, a US-led Tech Alliance
Context Recently, India has formally entered the US-led Pax Silica coalition, marking a significant moment in the geopolitics of semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and critical mineral supply chains. About ‘Pax Silica’ Pax Silica (launched in December, 2025) is a coalition comprising the United States, Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, the UAE, the UK, and now India. Key Objectives: Securing semiconductor supply chains, coordinating AI innovati
Supreme Court’s Ethical Push for Sensitive Judiciary
Context The Supreme Court of India has constituted an expert committee to develop guidelines that infuse sensitivity and compassion in judicial functioning, especially in cases involving sexual offences and vulnerable victims. Background The issue arose from a 2025 order of the Allahabad High Court that used explicit language while narrating sexual assault on a minor. The High Court had diluted charges from attempt to rape to a lesser offence.
Govt. Announces 7 Additional Measures under Export Promotion Mission
Context The Ministry of Commerce introduced seven additional interventions under the Export Promotion Mission. Export Promotion Mission In the Union Budget for 2025-26, the Finance Minister announced an Export Promotion Mission. It would facilitate easy access to export credit, cross-border factoring support, and support to MSMEs to tackle non-tariff measures in overseas markets.
International Mother Language Day
Context International Mother Language Day is observed on February 21, under the theme “Youth voices on multilingual education”. About International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999, it was the initiative of Bangladesh. The UN General Assembly welcomed the proclamation of the day in its resolution of 2002.
NITI Aayog Releases Report on Apprenticeship in India
Context NITI Aayog launched a policy report titled “Revitalizing Apprenticeship Ecosystem: Insights, Challenges, Recommendations and Best Practices.” About The report presents a comprehensive analysis of India’s apprenticeship landscape. It provides critical insights, identifies challenges, and outlines actionable recommendations to strengthen the apprenticeship system as a cornerstone of India’s skilling and employment strategy.