Daily Current Affairs – February 17, 2026

India's textile and apparel exports saw a dip in January. High tariffs from the United States impacted shipments. However, a recent reduction in these tariffs is expected to boost export competitiveness. This change should support a recovery in textile and apparel shipments in the coming months. The sector's share in India's total exports also saw a decline.

Surging gold and silver imports widened India’s January trade deficit to $34.68 billion. Imports jumped 19% while exports barely grew, with services offering limited relief amid weak global demand.

State's Economic Survey 2025-26 said Tamil Nadu can achieve its trillion-dollar economy milestone by 2031 if it sustains the 2024-25 nominal growth rate of 16%

A 10-member panel comprising eight government officials and two experts held its first meeting on Monday

Oath for ‘Constitution Reform Commission’ surprises new MPs

Indian IT stocks, including TCS and Infosys, faced a $56 billion market hit amid global AI-related concerns. The sell-off tested the sector’s resilience as investors reacted to fears of automation-driven disruptions and changing technology dynamics. Despite short-term volatility, analysts say strong fundamentals and long-term growth prospects could help these companies navigate the turbulence and recover over time.

Indian markets are shifting focus to company earnings and liquidity. The India-US trade deal has eased pressures. Investors are recalibrating strategies for 2026. Small and midcap stocks offer opportunities but require careful selection. Earnings visibility and balance sheet strength are key. Global trade and liquidity will guide market direction.

Union ports minister Sarbananda Sonowal tells Mint that Indian shipbuilders, through global tie-ups, will receive more orders to develop large ships that were never manufactured in India before. 

The Reserve Bank of India has released draft proposals targeting mis-selling of third-party financial products, bundled sales, and even ‘dark patterns’ in banking apps, redrawing the boundaries of how banks sell such products.