Daily Current Affairs for CAT, XAT & MBA GDPI – February 19, 2026
Indian Economy & Policy
India's consumer inflation estimated at 4.3% in FY27, up from 2.5% in FY26: Crisil
Consumer inflation in India is set to climb to 4.3 percent in fiscal 2027. This rise follows an estimated 2.5 percent in fiscal 2026. Food inflation will normalize from current low levels. Changes in the Consumer Price Index basket will limit the overall increase. Non-food inflation and core inflation are expected to help restrain the rise.
Gujarat tables Rs 4.08 lakh cr Budget, 10.2% higher compared to last year
Gujarat's Finance Minister Kanu Desai unveiled a ₹4,08,053 crore budget for 2026-27. The plan prioritizes developing six regions as growth hubs. Significant funds are allocated for sports infrastructure to prepare Ahmedabad for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics. The budget also aims to boost exports and strengthen the textile industry.
Indian Politics & Governance
US tech giants announce India deals at AI summit
This week's AI Impact Summit is the fourth annual gathering to discuss how to govern the fast-evolving technology
What the scrapping of reservation means for Muslims in Maharashtra
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan asked why the BJP-led government had scrapped the decision soon after Ajit Pawar's demise, when Mr. Pawar had taken the decision in 2014
Geopolitics (India Focus)
India adds its name to list of countries criticising Israel’s unilateral measures on West Bank
India had not joined the original group of 85 countries that announced the statement on February 17
No reason to believe change in India's stance on Russian oil: Russian Foreign Ministry
The remarks came in the backdrop of Washington's claim that New Delhi has agreed to stop importing Russian crude oil
Indian Stock Market & IPOs
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories shares in focus after acquiring India trademarks for two HRT drugs for $32 million
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories is set to attract investor attention after acquiring the India trademarks for specialty brands Progynova® and Cyclo-Progynova® from Mercury Pharma Group Limited for USD 32.15 million. This domestic acquisition significantly strengthens Dr. Reddy's gynecology portfolio and marks its entry into the Hormone Replacement Therapy segment in India.
ETMarkets Smart Talk | New-age traders prefer derivatives, algos over traditional investing: Kiran Jani of Jainam Broking
Indian markets are currently range-bound. A notable shift is occurring from traditional investing to fast-paced, technology-led trading. New-age traders are embracing derivatives and algorithmic strategies. Long-term investors continue to rely on earnings growth and SIPs. FII selling persists, but DII inflows provide support. Sector rotation is evident, with some sectors showing signs of overheating.
Marketing, Brands & Consumer Trends
Mint Explainer | What India’s uneven EV adoption means for the next phase of green mobility
Adoption data shows that EVs are beginning to shape India’s emissions profile in small but visible ways. However, that impact is concentrated in specific segments rather than evenly distributed across the transport system.
India, UK launch joint taskforce for development of offshore wind energy
Union minister Pralhad Joshi and UK deputy PM David Lammy launched a taskforce for offshore wind energy development in India. The initiative aims to enhance bilateral ties and focuses on ecosystem planning, infrastructure, and financing to overcome challenges in establishing offshore wind projects.
Sports (Business & Governance)
Arundhati Reddy’s four-wicket haul shows how hard-working she is: Aavishkar Salvi
Arundhati claimed 4/22 to help India bowl Australia out for a mere 133 and win the contest by 21 runs via DLS Method in Sydney to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series
We have quality spinners, don't have to bother about bowling pace: Salman Agha
Pakistan rode on Sahibzada Farhan's maiden hundred and their spinners' excellent display to crush Namibia and make the next stage of the tournament, bouncing back from the heavy defeat to India