Indian Current Affairs: Key Highlights from February 13, 2026

February 13, 2026, was a dynamic day in India's current affairs landscape, marked by significant political inaugurations, economic volatility, major defense procurements, and widespread protests. From the shifting of the Prime Minister's Office to a new complex symbolizing citizen-centric governance to a nationwide strike disrupting daily life, the day reflected India's ongoing push for development amid domestic and international challenges. This article delves into the top stories, providing insights into their implications for the nation's future.

Political Landscape: Inaugurations and Protests

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Seva Teerth complex, which will now house the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat. Previously located in the historic South Block on Raisina Hill, the PMO's relocation to this modern facility emphasizes efficiency and integration. The complex, inscribed with the motto ‘Nagrik Devo Bhava’ (citizen is akin to God), represents a new era in governance, with PM Modi describing it as a "resolve to achieve 'Viksit Bharat'." This move also includes the inauguration of Kartavya Bhavan 1 and 2, signaling the end of an era for the North and South Blocks, which have housed government offices since India's independence in 1947.

In Parliament, tensions ran high as Opposition MPs protested outside, demanding the resignation of Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri over alleged links to Jeffrey Epstein, as highlighted by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi also criticized the government on the India-U.S. interim trade deal, calling PM Modi "anti-farmer" and vowing to support farmers despite potential legal actions like FIRs or privilege motions. Additionally, a BJP lawmaker moved a privilege motion against Gandhi over his remarks on workers' rights and government policies. In the Rajya Sabha, Opposition leaders critiqued the Budget, focusing on farmer support and long-term economic strategies.

Other political notes included a row in West Bengal over unauthorized voter forms in Murshidabad and South 24 Parganas districts, prompting Election Commission intervention. In Nagaland, Deputy CM Yanthungo Patton called for peace amid violence in Maova village. The Supreme Court directed the CBI to file a status report on 2023 Manipur violence sexual assault cases.

Economic Turbulence: Market Crash and Trade Deals

The Indian stock market experienced a sharp decline, with the BSE Sensex tumbling 1,048.16 points (1.25%) to close at 82,626.76, and the NSE Nifty plunging 336.10 points (1.30%) to 25,471.10. The selloff was driven by losses in metal, IT, and commodity stocks, influenced by weak global cues. Intraday lows saw the Sensex drop to 82,534.55 and Nifty to 25,444.30.

On the trade front, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met US Ambassador Sergio Gor, affirming that the February 7 joint statement forms the basis of the interim India-US trade deal, opening new partnership opportunities. The Ministry of External Affairs refused to deny US claims on reduced Russian oil imports, expressing satisfaction with US fact sheet amendments. Reliance Industries secured a US license for Venezuelan oil imports.

Parliament passed the Industrial Relations Code Bill, and India unveiled a new CPI series with a 2024 base, reporting January inflation at 2.75%. Indian Railways approved Rs 1,334 crore infrastructure projects across multiple states.

Defense Sector: Major Procurements Approved

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved proposals worth approximately ₹3.60 lakh crore, including 114 Rafale multi-role fighter jets from France and additional P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft from Boeing. This is India's largest military deal to date, aimed at enhancing air dominance and naval surveillance amid regional threats. Other approvals include Vibhav anti-tank mines, tank overhauls, and EO/IR systems for Coast Guard Dornier aircraft. The Ministry of Defence signed a ₹2,312 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for eight Dornier 228 aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard.

Social and Regional Developments: Strikes and Incidents

A nationwide Bharat Bandh, called by trade unions and farmers' groups, disrupted transport, markets, schools, and banks across states like Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, and Kerala. Over 30 crore participants protested against labour codes, trade deals, and various bills, including the Draft Seeds Bill and Electricity (Amendment) Bill.

A moderate 3.2 magnitude earthquake struck Kamjong, Manipur, at a depth of 60 km. In Maharashtra, a BJP-led civic body proposed renaming a square after Tipu Sultan, sparking communal concerns. A major pharmacy chain, DavaIndia, exposed customer data and internal systems due to a security lapse.

Internationally, an Indian man pleaded guilty in a US court to conspiring in an assassination plot against a Sikh separatist leader in New York. In neighboring Bangladesh, the BNP's landslide election victory raised questions about resetting India-Bangladesh ties, with PM Modi congratulating BNP chief Tarique Rahman.

Conclusion

February 13, 2026, encapsulated India's multifaceted challenges and ambitions—from bolstering defense amid geopolitical tensions to navigating economic pressures and political dissent. As the nation advances towards 'Viksit Bharat,' these events highlight the need for balanced policies that address citizen concerns while fostering growth. With ongoing debates on trade and reforms, the coming days will be crucial in shaping India's trajectory. Stay informed as developments unfold.