UPSC Current Affairs – 21 February 2026
Key Highlights
1. NITI Aayog Report on Apprenticeship Ecosystem
The NITI Aayog released a pivotal report aimed at improving India’s apprenticeship framework, presenting 20 actionable recommendations across five critical areas: policy reforms, structural strengthening, targeted state-district interventions, industry engagement, and aspirant support. The report emphasizes the need to transform apprenticeships into a vital component of human capital development by 2047. Despite high engagements in states like Gujarat, the report identifies significant regional disparities in apprenticeship participation. Challenges such as aspirational bias towards traditional degrees and complex regulatory frameworks hinder participation. Proposed actions include a unified digital platform and the introduction of an Apprenticeship Engagement Index.
2. Rising Cybercrime in India
The Ministry of Home Affairs reports a 24% increase in cybercrime in 2025, with financial losses reaching ₹22,495 crore. The data indicates a worrying trend towards organized investment scams, which accounted for 76% of total losses. Factors contributing to the rise include increased internet access, psychological manipulation, and the use of AI by criminals. Challenges in combating cybercrime include low FIR conversion rates and the technical sophistication of cybercriminals. The way forward includes mandatory e-FIRs, AI-driven defenses, and strengthened international cooperation against cross-border cybercrime.
3. One Plant Per Day Initiative
The “One Plant Per Day” initiative, launched in 2021, promotes afforestation through individual and community participation in tree planting. Recently highlighted for its fifth anniversary, the program aims to foster sustainable environmental practices and enhanced climatological awareness.
4. Export Promotion Mission
The Union Commerce Ministry rolled out new interventions under the Export Promotion Mission, designed to bolster MSME capabilities in global trade. Key features include financial support mechanisms and logistics assistance aimed at overcoming barriers to export for Indian businesses.
5. Launch of Tetanus and Diphtheria Vaccine
The Union Health Minister initiated the Td vaccine rollout to reinforce India’s immunization efforts against these bacterial infections, aiming to maintain long-term immunity.
6. SANKALP Scheme Review
The SANKALP (Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion) scheme, designed to enhance short-term skill training effectiveness, faces criticism over slow implementation and poor monitoring.
7. Pax Silica Initiative
India’s inclusion in the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative focuses on fortifying supply chains for critical minerals and electronics, promoting international collaboration.
8. Operation Chivalrous Knight 3
The UAE launched this humanitarian mission to support Gaza, ensuring aid delivery amid escalating humanitarian needs.
9. INS Krishna Launch
The Indian Navy inaugurated INS Krishna, a significant step toward enhancing naval training capabilities and self-reliance in maritime technology.
10. Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS)
India resumed the chairmanship of IONS, a cooperative forum for Indian Ocean nations aimed at bolstering maritime security and collaborative responses to shared challenges.
Conclusion
The narratives of this day highlight India’s multifaceted challenges and opportunities ranging from skill development and cyber security to environmental initiatives and international collaborations, all crucial for meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape. By proactively addressing these issues, India aims to foster a resilient workforce and ensure socio-economic stability and growth.
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