UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 16 February 2026

by Vajiram & Ravi - 16 February 2026

Vajiram & Ravi provides Daily UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 16 February 2026, tailored for aspirants. We cover all relevant news and events crucial for the exam, ensuring you stay updated & well-prepared.

Piton de la Fournaise Volcano

February 16, 2026
Piton de la Fournaise Volcano

Piton de la Fournaise Volcano Latest News

The Piton de la Fournaise volcano on Reunion Island erupted for the second time this year.

About Piton de la Fournaise Volcano

  • Location: It occupies the east-southeastern end of French Island La Réunion in the western Indian Ocean.
  • Type: It is a massive basaltic shield volcano.
  • It is built on the flank of the larger and older Piton des Neiges volcano whose early activity was basaltic but ended with eruption of differentiated alkaline lavas. 
  • It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
  • It is in a phase of frequent but short-lived eruptions that start with lava fountains and produce large lava flows. 
  • Status: It is around 500,000 years old and since 2010, it has been a member of the prestigious club of natural treasures listed as World Heritage sites by UNESCO.

Key Facts about Shield Volcano

  • They are the largest volcanoes on Earth.
  • They do not form soaring mountains with conical peaks like composite volcanoes. Instead, they are broad volcanoes with gentle slopes. 
  • They are almost exclusively basalt, a type of lava that is very fluid when erupted.
  • Because basalt has a low viscosity, it can flow on the surface better. So, when these types of volcanoes erupt, lava flows outwards at large distances.
  • They are built by repeated eruptions that occurred intermittently over vast periods of time.
  • The Hawaiian shield volcanoes are the most famous examples.

Source: Watchers

Piton de la Fournaise Volcano FAQs

Q1: Where is Piton de la Fournaise located?

Ans: La Réunion Island, western Indian Ocean

Q2: What type of volcano is Piton de la Fournaise?

Ans: Shield volcano

Exposome

February 16, 2026
Exposome

Exposome Latest News

Scientists are launching an ambitious global effort to map the “human exposome” — the lifelong mix of environmental and chemical exposures that drive most diseases.

About Exposome

  • It can be defined as the measure of all the exposures of an individual in a lifetime, from conception onward, and how those exposures relate to health. 
  • The International Human Exposome Network (IHEN) defines the exposome as the "integrated compilation of all physical, chemical, biological, and psychosocial factors, and their interactions."
  • It reveals the accumulated lifetime exposures that determine our health, wellness, and susceptibility to disease. 
  • This is shaped by internal exposures such as individual metabolism or the microbiome, as well as external factors such as air quality. 
  • It also involves social or behavioral decisions that influence nutrition and exercise. 
  • Exposomics is the study of the exposome and relies on the application of internal and external exposure assessment methods.
  • Internal exposure assessment relies on fields of study such as genomics, metabonomics, lipidomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. Commonalities of these fields include
    • use of biomarkers to determine exposure, effect of exposure, disease progression, and susceptibility factors
    • use of technologies that result in large amounts of data and
    • use of data mining techniques to find statistical associations between exposures, effect of exposures, and other factors such as genetics with disease. 
  • External exposure assessment relies on measuring environmental stressors. 
    • Common approaches include using direct reading instruments, laboratory-based analysis, and survey instruments.

Source: SD

Exposome FAQs

Q1: What is the exposome?

Ans: The exposome is the measure of all the exposures an individual experiences in a lifetime from conception onward and how those exposures relate to health.

Q2: How does the International Human Exposome Network (IHEN) define the exposome?

Ans: IHEN defines the exposome as the integrated compilation of all physical, chemical, biological, and psychosocial factors, and their interactions.

Q3: What does the exposome reveal about an individual?

Ans: It reveals accumulated lifetime exposures that determine health, wellness, and susceptibility to disease.

Q4: What does exposomics rely on?

Ans: It relies on the application of internal and external exposure assessment methods.

Leiogalathea Samudragiri

February 16, 2026
Leiogalathea Samudragiri

Leiogalathea Samudragiri Latest News

Researchers recently discovered a new species of squat lobster named Leiogalathea samudragiri off Lakshadweep’s coast.

About Leiogalathea Samudragiri

  • It is a new species of squat lobster.
  • It was found living 360 metres below the surface near Minicoy, part of the Lakshadweep archipelago.
  • The discovery was made during a research cruise as part of India’s ambitious Deep Ocean Mission (Samudrayaan program).
  • L. samudragiri possesses smooth, uninterrupted ridges running across the top of its shell, whereas its closest relatives have ridges that are broken or interrupted. 
  • It also features exactly six transverse ridges on the back half of its body.
  • It lacks a specific spine on its feelers (antennules) that is commonly found in similar species. 
  • It is bright orange in colour.

What are Squat Lobsters?

  • They are marine crustaceans that resemble small lobsters but are not true lobsters. 
  • They are more closely related to hermit crabs and porcelain crabs.
  • There are well over 900 species of squat lobsters, and they can be found in nearly every marine environment across most latitudes around the world.
  • They have small, flat bodies, ranging from 0.7 to 3.5 inches (1.778 to 88.9 mm) in length. 
  • These decapods (ten-footed) have a front pair of legs that are much longer than their bodies that end in a pair of large claws.   
  • The lobsters earned their name by tucking their tails under their thorax, giving their bodies a shorter, more “squat” appearance.  
  • As with many other crustaceans, squat lobsters can use their tail as a paddle to escape backwards very quickly.

Source: RM

Leiogalathea Samudragiri FAQs

Q1: What is Leiogalathea samudragiri?

Ans: It is a new species of squat lobster.

Q2: Near which place was Leiogalathea samudragiri discovered?

Ans: It was discovered near Minicoy in the Lakshadweep archipelago.

Q3: What is unique about the ridges on the shell of Leiogalathea samudragiri?

Ans: It has smooth, uninterrupted ridges across the top of its shell.

Q4: What is the colour of Leiogalathea samudragiri?

Ans: It is bright orange in colour.

Bio-Based Chemicals

February 16, 2026
Bio-Based Chemicals

Bio-Based Chemicals Latest News

India has prioritised bio-based chemicals and enzymes as a priority area under the Department of Biotechnology’s BioE3 policy. 

About Bio-Based Chemicals

  • Bio-based chemicals are industrial chemicals produced using biological feedstocks like sugarcane, corn, starch, or biomass residues.
  • These are often produced through fermentation or enzymatic processes.
    • Examples: Organic acids (such as lactic acid), bio-alcohols, solvents, surfactants, and intermediates used in plastics, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Unlike conventional chemicals, for which the largely available supplies are obtained through sources of fossil fuel, bio-based alternatives reflect a sustainable solution.

Ecological Benefits of the Bio-Based Chemicals

  • The bio-based industry reduces reliance on fossil fuels by applying renewable feedstocks.
  • Low production of harmful byproducts: Biobased methods generate much lower amounts of hazardous waste than the conventional petroleum-based methodologies.
  • Reduced Carbon Footprint: The production of biochemicals generally requires less energy than their corresponding petroleum-based equivalents.
  • Waste Minimization and Circular Economy: With bio-based chemicals mostly coming from organic waste resources, development of the circular economy will be based on recycling, efficiency in the use of resources.

Challenges and Risks

  • Cost Disadvantage: Higher production cost compared to petrochemical alternatives, which creates an entry level barrier.
  • Feedstock: Availability of reliable feedstocks and supporting infrastructure required to produce different categories of bio-based chemicals at scale.
  • Market Adoption: Uncertainty about adapting bio-based chemicals as substitutes over fossil fuel based chemicals.

Source: TH

Bio-Based Chemicals FAQs

Q1: What are bio-based chemicals derived from?

Ans: Biological feedstocks (sugarcane, corn, biomass)

Q2: Which process is used to produce bio-based chemicals?

Ans: Fermentation or enzymatic processes

Osteoporosis

February 16, 2026
Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis Latest News

Osteoporosis is a bone-weakening disease that afflicts tens of millions of people, and much-needed new treatments could be on the way after researchers discovered a key mechanism behind how exercise strengthens bones.

About Osteoporosis

  • It is a disease in which your bones become weak and are likely to fracture (break). 
  • People with osteoporosis are much more likely to experience broken bones (bone fractures).

What Causes Osteoporosis?

  • Your bones are made of living tissue. To keep them strong, your body breaks down old bone and replaces it with new bone. 
  • Osteoporosis develops when more bone is broken down than replaced. 
  • You lose bone mass, and changes happen in the structure of your bone tissue. This can happen as you get older. 
  • Other risk factors can also lead to the development of osteoporosis or increase your chance of developing the disease.

Osteoporosis Symptoms

  • It is called a "silent" disease because it doesn't usually cause symptoms. You may not even know you have the disease until you break a bone.  
  • This could happen with any bone, but it's most common in the bones of your hip, vertebrae in the spine, and wrist.
  • Once your bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, you might have signs and symptoms that include:
  • Back pain, caused by a broken or collapsed bone in the spine.
  • Loss of height over time.
  • A stooped posture.
  • A bone that breaks much more easily than expected.

Osteoporosis Treatment

  • Treatment for osteoporosis may involve:
  • Making lifestyle changes, such as changing your diet and exercise routine
  • Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements
  • Using medicines to strengthen bones.

Source: SA

Osteoporosis FAQs

Q1: What is osteoporosis?

Ans: Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become weak and are more likely to fracture.

Q2: Why are people with osteoporosis at greater risk of injury?

Ans: Because their bones are weak and more prone to fractures.

Q3: When does osteoporosis develop?

Ans: Osteoporosis develops when more bone is broken down than is replaced.

Q4: Which bones are most commonly affected by fractures due to osteoporosis?

Ans: The hip, vertebrae in the spine, and wrist are most commonly affected.

Q5: Which supplements are commonly recommended for osteoporosis?

Ans: Calcium and vitamin D supplements are commonly recommended.

YUVA AI for ALL Initiative

February 16, 2026
YUVA AI for ALL Initiative

Yuva AI for All Initiative Latest News

Recently, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launched Kaushal Rath under the National AI Literacy programme “Yuva AI for All.”

About Yuva AI for All Initiative

  • It is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), under the IndiaAI Mission.
  • It is a first-of-its-kind free course that introduces the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to all Indians, especially the youth.
  • It consists of a 4.5-hour self-paced course designed to make students, professionals and other curious learners comfortable with the basics of Artificial intelligence.
  • Aim: To empower 1 crore (10 million) citizens with foundational  AI skills.

Key Features of YUVA AI for ALL Initiative

  • It’s simple, practical, and filled with real-life Indian examples to make learning relatable and fun.
  • It is available for free on leading learning platforms – FutureSkills Prime, iGOT  Karmayogi, and other popular ed-tech portals.
  • Every learner who completes the course will get an official certificate from the Government of India.
  • It’s 100% free and open to everyone
  • It allows learning at one’s own pace — anytime, anywhere

Source: DD News

YUVA AI for ALL Initiative FAQs

Q1: Who launched the YUVA AI for ALL Initiative?

Ans: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)

Q2: What is the aim of YUVA AI for ALL Initiative?

Ans: Empower 1 crore citizens with foundational AI skills

Futala Lake

February 16, 2026
Futala Lake

Futala Lake Latest News

Futala Lake, an iconic water body in the city, continues to grapple with untreated sewage inflow and mounting filth along its banks.

About Futala Lake

  • Futala Lake, also known as Telankhedi Lake, is a man-made lake located in the western part of Nagpur, Maharashtra.
  • It is believed to be more than 200 years old.
  • It was created during the Bhonsle dynasty rule in the 18th century for the purpose of providing water to the nearby villages and farmlands.
  • The lake covers an area of about 60 acres, making it one of the largest lakes in Nagpur.
  • The lake is surrounded on three sides by forest and a landscaped beach on the fourth side.
  • It features a picturesque promenade, boating facilities, and an amusement park.
  • This lake is known for its colorful fountains.

Source: TOI

Futala Lake FAQs

Q1: Where is Futala Lake located?

Ans: Futala Lake is located in the western part of Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Q2: How old is Futala Lake believed to be?

Ans: It is believed to be more than 200 years old.

Q3: During which dynasty was Futala Lake created?

Ans: Futala Lake was created during the Bhonsle dynasty in the 18th century.

Q4: What is the approximate area covered by Futala Lake?

Ans: The lake covers about 60 acres.

African Union

February 16, 2026
African Union

African Union Latest News

Recently, the African Union hosted its annual summit in Ethiopia.

About African Union

  • It is a continental body consisting of the 55 member states that make up the countries of the African Continent.
  • It was officially launched in 2002 and replaced its predecessor, the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which was founded in 1963.
  • Primary Objective: To promote unity, cooperation, and development among African nations while advancing the continent’s interests on the global stage.
  • Headquarters: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Read more about African Union

Governance of African Union

  • Assembly: It is the highest decision-making body, consisting of the heads of state and government of member countries.
  • Executive Council: Made up of foreign affairs ministers, handles policy matters and makes recommendations to the Assembly.
  • AU Commission: Headquartered in Addis Ababa, is the administrative arm responsible for implementing the decisions of the Assembly and the Executive Council.
  • The Peace and Security Council: Responsible for maintaining peace and security on the continent.
  • The AU structure promotes the participation of African citizens and civil society through the Pan-African Parliament and the Economic, Social & Cultural Council (ECOSOCC).

Source: New India Express

African Union FAQs

Q1: What is the predecessor of the African Union?

Ans: Organisation of African Unity (OAU)

Q2: How many member states are in the African Union?

Ans: 55

White-Bellied Sea Eagle

February 16, 2026
White-Bellied Sea Eagle

White-Bellied Sea Eagle Latest News

Recently, the annual nest monitoring survey of the White-bellied Sea Eagle recorded 17 active nesting sites in Kannur and Kasaragod districts during this season.

About White-bellied Sea Eagle

  • It is also known as the white-breasted sea eagle, is a large diurnal bird of prey in the family Accipitridae.
  • Habitat: It lives primarily in terrestrial habitats near the ocean, especially coasts, islands, and estuaries, but also live in forested areas with access to smaller bodies of water
  • Distribution: It is found in India, Sri Lanka, Andaman Island, southern China, the Philippines, Wallacea, New Guinea, Australia, and Tasmania, among other countries. 
  • It exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being slightly larger than males.
  • Communication: The primary form of communication in white-bellied sea eagles is vocalizations
  • Diet: They are carnivorous and primarily prey on aquatic animals, especially fish, eels, and crustaceans.
  • It is an apex predator in coastal ecosystems, and is considered an indicator of marine and coastal environmental health.
  • Conservation Status
    • IUCN: Least Concern

Source: TH

White-Bellied Sea Eagle FAQs

Q1: What is the primary habitat of White-bellied Sea Eagles?

Ans: Coastal areas and wetlands

Q2: What is the diet of White-bellied Sea Eagles?

Ans: Fish and aquatic animals

Spot-Bellied Eagle-Owl

February 16, 2026
Spot-Bellied Eagle-Owl

Spot-Bellied Eagle-Owl Latest News

A rare and mysterious night bird, the Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl, known as the 'Ghost of the Forest', was recently caught on camera in Uttarakhand's Corbett Reserve.

About Spot-Bellied Eagle-Owl

  • The spot-bellied eagle-owl, also known as the forest eagle-owl, is a large bird of prey with a formidable appearance.
  • Scientific Name: Ketupa nipalensis

Spot-Bellied Eagle-Owl Habitat and Distribution 

  • It is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and parts of Southeast Asia.
  • It can be found in a variety of habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and savannas.

Spot-Bellied Eagle-Owl Features

  • It is a very large owl. It can be from 50 to 65 cm (20 to 26 in) long. This makes it one of the longest owls in the world. 
  • It also has very long wings. Its wingspan can reach up to 1.7 meters.
  • The most distinguishing feature is its striking colouration. The upper parts of its body are a rich chocolate brown, speckled with white spots.
  • The feathers on its wings and tail are barred with alternating shades of brown and white, creating a stunning pattern that helps it blend in with its surroundings.
  • The underside of the owl is where it gets its name; its belly and breast are a light cream colour, covered in bold black spots.
  • It is primarily nocturnal.
  • It is a solitary bird that is territorial and maintains a home range.
  • It is famous for its strange, human-like calls.

Spot-Bellied Eagle-Owl Conservation Status

It is classified as 'Least Concern' under the IUCN Red List.

Source: ETVB

Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl FAQ's

Q1: What is the scientific name of the spot-bellied eagle-owl?

Ans: Its scientific name is Ketupa nipalensis.

Q2: In which countries is the spot-bellied eagle-owl commonly found?

Ans: It is found in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and parts of Southeast Asia.

Q3: Why is it called the spot-bellied eagle-owl?

Ans: It is named for its light cream belly and breast covered in bold black spots.

Q4: What is the colour of the upper parts of the spot-bellied eagle-owl?

Ans: The upper parts are rich chocolate brown with white spots.

Q5: What is the IUCN conservation status of the spot-bellied eagle-owl?

Ans: Its IUCN Red List status is Least Concern.

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