13 February Current Affairs

🔶 State Finances & Fiscal Policy

Uttar Pradesh Budget 2026–27

• Total Outlay: ₹9.13 lakh crore

• Growth: 12.2% increase over previous FY

• Signals continued emphasis on infrastructure, welfare expenditure, and capital formation .

Exam Relevance:

• State fiscal expansion strategies

• Budget size comparison (large states)

• Growth vs fiscal deficit dynamics

🔶 Governance, Culture & National Identity

First Formal Protocol for National Song – Vande Mataram

• Issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

• Establishes official guidelines governing usage, rendition, and ceremonial treatment .

Significance:

• Institutionalisation of national symbols

• Cultural governance & constitutional sensitivity

Exam Angle:

• Difference: National Anthem vs National Song

• Role of executive guidelines in symbolic governance

🔶 Institutions & Productivity

National Productivity Council (NPC) – 68th Foundation Year

• Highlights focus on efficiency, competitiveness, industrial productivity .

Exam Linkage:

• Productivity in economic growth

• Role of advisory institutions

🔶 Transport & Infrastructure Development

Seven New High-Speed Rail Corridors

• Announced in Union Budget 2026–27

• Expansion beyond Mumbai–Ahmedabad corridor

Strategic Importance:

• Logistics efficiency

• Economic corridor integration

• Regional development acceleration

Exam Relevance:

• Infrastructure-led growth

• Multimodal transport policy

🔶 Global Indices & Governance Metrics

Women, Peace &