For Admissions Contact @ 9133527733

Menu

Leave a Comment / By /

TGPSC Daily Current Affairs - 12th February 2026

News at a Glance

BioAsia’s Genome Valley Excellence Award 2026 to Honour Bruce Levine

Source: The Hindu

Relevance:
TGPSC GR I Paper–V: Science & Technology

Important Keywords

For Prelims:

  • Bio Asia, Genome Valley Excellence Award, CAR T-Cell Therapy, Cell and Gene Therapy, Cancer Immunotherapy

For Mains:

  • Precision Medicine, Translational Biomedical Research, TechBio Convergence (AI + Biology), Biotechnology Innovation Ecosystem, Living Medicines & Gene Editing

Why in News?

The Genome Valley Excellence Award 2026, a prestigious recognition presented at the annual BioAsia Life Sciences Conference in Hyderabad, will be conferred on Dr. Bruce Levine for his groundbreaking contributions to cell and gene therapy and cancer immunotherapy.

Awardee and Contribution

Dr. Bruce Levine, Barbara and Edward Netter Professor in Cancer Gene Therapy at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, has been selected for his pioneering work in:

  • Cell and Gene Therapy
  • Engineered T-Cell Therapies
  • CAR T-Cell Immunotherapy
  • Personalised Living Medicines

His research has enabled the safe genetic modification of human cells, forming the scientific basis for next-generation personalised treatments.

Through landmark discoveries and clinical trials, Dr. Levine played a critical role in the development of CAR T-cell therapies, which contributed to the emergence of the first FDA-approved gene therapies for cancer.

These innovations have transformed treatment approaches for previously incurable cancers and strengthened global standards in translational biomedical research.

Gene Therapy

What is Gene Therapy?

  • Gene therapy is a medical technique that alters or modifies genes to treat or prevent diseases.
  • It works by changing gene expression or modifying the biological properties of living cells for therapeutic purposes.
  • It is used in the treatment of cancer, genetic disorders, and infectious diseases.

Mechanisms of Gene Therapy

Gene therapy can function through multiple approaches:

  • Gene Replacement – Substituting a defective gene with a healthy copy.
  • Gene Inactivation – Silencing or disabling a harmful or malfunctioning gene.
  • Gene Addition/Modification – Introducing a new or modified gene to help fight disease.

Types of Gene Therapy Products

  • Plasmid DNA
    • Circular DNA molecules engineered to carry therapeutic genes into cells.
  • Viral Vectors
    • Modified viruses (rendered non-infectious) used as delivery vehicles to transfer genes into human cells.
  • Bacterial Vectors
    • Genetically modified bacteria used to transport therapeutic genes into tissues.
  • Gene Editing Technologies
    • Techniques aimed at repairing mutated genes or disrupting harmful genes.
  • Patient-Derived Cellular Gene Therapy
    • Patient’s cells are removed, genetically altered (often using viral vectors), and reintroduced into the body.

Types Based on Delivery Method

  • Ex Vivo Gene Therapy
    • Cells are modified outside the body and then transplanted back into the patient.
  • In Vivo Gene Therapy
    • Genetic modification occurs directly inside the patient’s body.

BioAsia 2026: Theme and Focus

The two-day BioAsia 2026 conference, beginning February 17 in Hyderabad, will be held under the theme:

“TechBio Unleashed: AI, Automation and the Biology Revolution.”

The conference will explore:

  • Convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced biology
  • Intelligent manufacturing in life sciences
  • Transformation in drug discovery and therapy development
  • Future of precision and personalised medicine

Significance

  • Reinforces Hyderabad’s position as a global life sciences hub under Genome Valley.
  • Highlights India’s growing role in biotechnology, immunotherapy, and translational research.
  • Demonstrates the integration of AI, automation, and biotech innovation in modern healthcare.

The award underscores Telangana’s commitment to recognising global scientific excellence while strengthening its standing in the global biotechnology ecosystem.

CARE MCQ

Q. With reference to recent developments in ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements:

  1. Genetic engineering techniques are employed in the development of these vaccines.
  2. Both bacteria and viruses can be used as vectors in such vaccines.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct: Recombinant vector vaccines rely on genetic engineering. Scientists isolate a gene encoding a specific antigen from a pathogen and insert it into the genetic material of a harmless carrier organism (vector). This engineered vector then produces the antigen inside the host body, triggering an immune response without causing the actual disease.
  • Statement 2 is correct: Both viruses and bacteria can serve as vectors. Viral vectors (such as adenoviruses) are widely used, but certain attenuated bacterial strains (e.g., Salmonella or Listeria) can also be genetically modified to deliver antigenic material. These vectors simulate natural infection pathways, thereby generating strong and effective immunity.

No-Confidence Motion Against Om Birla

Source: Indian Express

Relevance:
GS Paper – 2: Parliament, State Legislature, Executive, Representation of People’s Act

Important Keywords

For Prelims:

  • Coalition government, Speaker and a Deputy Speaker, simple majority, adjournments, no-confidence and censure motions, Business Advisory Committee, the General Purposes Committee and the Rules Committee, rights and privileges

For Mains:

  • Key facts about the speaker in India, Role of Speaker in Coalition Government

What is the current issue?

  • The Opposition moved a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on February 10, 2026.
  • Reasons cited include:
    • Not allowing Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to quote or speak about former Army Chief Gen MM Naravane’s unpublished memoir.
    • The Speaker’s statement suggesting Prime Minister Narendra Modi could have been attacked inside the House.
  • Lok Sabha sources say the motion will now be examined and processed as per rules.

Can the Lok Sabha Speaker be removed?

  • Yes, the Lok Sabha Speaker can be removed.
  • This provision does not apply to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.
  • The removal process is provided under Article 94(c) of the Constitution of India.

Constitutional basis (Article 94)

Under Article 94, a Speaker or Deputy Speaker vacates office if:

  • 94(a): They cease to be a member of the Lok Sabha.
  • 94(b): They resign by submitting a written resignation.
  • 94(c): They are removed by a resolution passed by a majority of all the then members of the Lok Sabha.
  • Removal requires a special and stringent procedure.

Constitutional Provisions Related to Speaker/Deputy Speaker

  • Article 93/178: Appointment of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha/ Legislative Assembly.
  • Article 94/179: Vacation/resignation/removal from the offices of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha/Legislative Assembly.
  • Article 95/180: Power of the Deputy Speaker or other person(s) to perform the duties of the office of or to act as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha/Legislative Assembly.
  • Article 96/181: The Speaker or the Deputy Speaker not to preside while a resolution for his removal from office is under consideration.
  • Article 97/186: Salaries and allowances of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.

Judicial Provisions Related to Speaker / Deputy Speaker

  • Kihoto Hollohan vs Zachillhu (1993):
    Speaker’s decisions under the Tenth Schedule are not final and are subject to judicial review on grounds like malafide, perversity, or constitutional violation.
  • Nabam Rebia vs Deputy Speaker (2016):
    A Speaker cannot decide disqualification petitions under the anti-defection law while a removal notice against them is pending.
  • Keisham Meghachandra Singh vs Speaker, Manipur LA (2020):
    Disqualification pleas must be decided within three months, except in extraordinary circumstances.
  • Subhash Desai vs Principal Secretary, Governor of Maharashtra (2023):
    Speaker directed to set a clear timeline for deciding disqualification petitions; undue delay undermines democracy.

Process For Removal of Lok Sabha Speaker

  • Article 94(c) allows a Speaker to be removed by a resolution of the House.
  • A member must give at least 14 days’ written notice to move a resolution for removal.
  • The motion must be backed by at least 50 MPs to be admitted for discussion.
  • The Speaker cannot preside over the House while the motion is pending, but may attend and defend himself, as per Article 96.
  • The resolution must pass by a majority of all members of the Lok Sabha (effective majority).
  • If passed, the Speaker is removed immediately but remains an MP. If rejected, the Speaker continues in office.

Since the notice has the required signatures, the motion can be taken up after the 14-day notice period. The Budget Session is in recess after February 13.

Who can initiate the removal process?

  • Any Lok Sabha member can give notice.
  • Notice must be:
    • In writing
    • Submitted to the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha
  • The notice may be given jointly by two or more members.

Mandatory notice period

  • A resolution for removal cannot be moved unless at least 14 days’ prior notice is given.
  • After receiving notice:
    • A motion for leave to move the resolution is listed in the List of Business.
    • The date fixed must be any day after 14 days from receipt of notice.

Minimum support required (critical condition)

  • At the time of seeking leave:
    • At least 50 members must stand up in support of the motion.
    • This establishes that the House’s quorum requirement is met.

What happens if 50 or more MPs rise?

  • The presiding officer declares that “leave has been granted”.
  • The resolution is scheduled for discussion:
    • Within 10 days of leave being granted.
    • It is included in the List of Business.

What happens if fewer than 50 MPs rise?

  • The presiding officer declares that the member:
    • “Has not the leave of the House”
  • The motion fails immediately and goes no further.

Rules governing the process

  • Governed by Rules 200 to 203 of the:
    • Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha
  • Additional guideline under Rule 200A:
    • The resolution must:
      • Be specific in charges
      • Be clearly and precisely worded
      • Not include:
        • Arguments
        • Inferences
        • Irony or sarcasm
        • Imputations
        • Defamatory statements
  •  

Debate rules once motion is admitted

  • Members who submitted the motion:
    • Cannot speak immediately after admission
  • On the scheduled discussion day:
    • Movers may speak only if allowed by the presiding officer
    • Speaking time is capped at 15 minutes
  • Discussion must be:
    • Strictly confined to the charges mentioned in the resolution

Role and rights of the Speaker during the motion

  • The Speaker:
    • Does not vacate office during discussion
    • Has the right to speak and participate in proceedings
    • Has the right to vote in the first instance
    • Cannot exercise a casting vote in case of a tie

What if the Lok Sabha is dissolved?

  • Even after dissolution:
    • The Speaker continues in office
    • Vacates the post only immediately before the first meeting of the next Lok Sabha

Has this happened before?

  • Yes — three times in Indian parliamentary history:

    1. 1954 – Against GV Mavalankar (first Lok Sabha Speaker)
    2. 1966 – Against Hukam Singh
    3. 1987 – Against Balram Jakhar

    None of the Speakers were removed as a result of these motions.

Conclusion

  • Removing a Lok Sabha Speaker is constitutionally possible but politically difficult.
  • It requires:
    • Prior notice
    • Procedural compliance
    • Minimum MP support
    • Majority of all existing members, not just those present
  • Historically, no Speaker has ever been removed through this process.

UPSC PYQ

Q. With reference to Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: (2022)

  1. As per the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, the election of Deputy Speaker shall be held on such date as the Speaker may fix.
  2. There is a mandatory provision that the election of a candidate as Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha shall be from either the principal opposition party or the ruling party.
  3. The Deputy Speaker has the same power as of the Speaker when presiding over the sitting of the House and no appeal lies against his rulings.
  4. The well-established parliamentary practice regarding the appointment of Deputy Speaker is that the motion is moved by the Speaker and duly seconded by the Prime Minister.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3

(c) 3 and 4 only

(d) 2 and 4 only

Ans: (b)

CARE MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding removal of the Lok Sabha Speaker:

  1. The Speaker can be removed by a majority of members present and voting.
  2. A minimum 14-day notice is required before moving the resolution.
  3. At least 50 members must support the motion for it to be admitted.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect — removal requires an absolute majority, not just present and voting.

Statement 2 is correct – A minimum 14-day notice is required before moving the resolution.

Statement 3 is correct – At least 50 members must support the motion for it to be admitted.

India–Greece Defence Cooperation: Expanding a Strategic Maritime Partnership

Source: Indian express

Relevance:
GS Paper II – International Relations

Important Keywords

For Prelims:

  • India–Greece Strategic Partnership, Joint Declaration of Intent (JDoI), Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI)

For Mains:

  • Defence Industrial Cooperation, Maritime Security Architecture, Geopolitical Balancing in the Mediterranean, Turkey–Pakistan Axis, Multi-Alignment in Foreign Policy

Why in News?

India and Greece signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDoI) to enhance defence industrial cooperation following bilateral talks between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Greek counterpart Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias in New Delhi.

The agreement marks the beginning of a structured five-year roadmap to deepen military, industrial, and maritime collaboration between the two nations.

Key Developments

  • Signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent to strengthen defence industrial cooperation.
  • Exchange of a Bilateral Military Cooperation Plan for 2026.
  • Announcement of positioning a Greek International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Gurugram.
  • Commitment to expand defence production linkages under:
    • India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat
    • Greece’s defence modernisation programme under Agenda 2030.

Both countries reiterated that their relationship is anchored in shared values of peace, stability, freedom of navigation, and mutual respect.

Evolution of India–Greece Relations

1. Historical Linkages (Ancient Period)

  • Relations date back nearly 2,500 years.
  • Alexander’s campaign in 326 BCE reached northwestern India.
  • The Mauryan period saw the Greek ambassador Megasthenes at Chandragupta Maurya’s court.
  • The Gandhara school of art reflected Indo-Greek cultural synthesis.
  • Trade exchanges existed between ancient Indian kingdoms and Hellenistic regions.

2. Strategic Partnership (Modern Era)

  • Bilateral ties elevated to a Strategic Partnership in August 2023.
  • Greece supports:
    • India’s stand on Kashmir
    • India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UNSC
  • India supports Greece’s stance on the Cyprus issue, advocating a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation under UNSC resolutions.

Strategic Significance of India–Greece Cooperation

1. Defence and Maritime Cooperation

  • Strengthens defence industrial collaboration.
  • Enhances interoperability through structured military engagement.
  • IFC-IOR liaison improves maritime domain awareness.
  • Both nations support a rules-based international order.

2. Gateway to Europe

  • Greece’s location in the Eastern Mediterranean makes it a strategic gateway.
  • Greek ports like Piraeus could become entry points for Indian goods under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
  • Greece controls nearly 20% of global shipping tonnage, offering logistical advantages.

3. Geopolitical Balancing

  • Acts as a counterweight to the Turkey–Pakistan axis.
  • Turkey’s defence cooperation with Pakistan enhances the geopolitical value of India–Greece alignment.
  • Expands India’s strategic footprint from the Indo-Pacific to the Mediterranean.
  • Supports convergence between:
    • India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI)
    • Mediterranean maritime security architecture.

Challenges in India–Greece Relations

1. Limited Economic Engagement

  • Bilateral trade stands at approximately USD 2 billion.
  • Trade remains concentrated in primary commodities.
  • Limited high-value technological or services cooperation.

2. Connectivity Constraints

  • Absence of direct shipping lines increases logistics costs.
  • Heavy reliance on trans-shipment routes.

3. The China Factor

  • Port of Piraeus is majority-owned by China’s COSCO Shipping.
  • Raises concerns over strategic supply-chain vulnerabilities.
  • Creates a long-term geopolitical dilemma for India’s European connectivity strategy.

4. Institutional Gaps

  • Lack of a structured 2+2 Dialogue mechanism.
  • Limited foreign policy coordination frameworks.
  • Need for stronger institutional continuity.

Way Forward: Strengthening the Partnership

1. Operationalising IMEC

  • Accelerate corridor implementation.
  • Establish Greece as a principal European entry point for Indian trade.

2. Green Maritime Cooperation

  • Develop green shipping corridors.
  • Collaborate in hydrogen and ammonia-based maritime fuels.

3. Labour Mobility Cooperation

  • Implement Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement.
  • Address Greece’s labour shortage through legal skilled migration channels.

4. Strategic Grouping

  • Consider a minilateral framework involving:
    • India
    • Greece
    • Cyprus
    • Israel (or France)
  • Focus on energy security and joint naval patrols.

5. Digital Connectivity

  • Collaborate on submarine cable systems to bypass chokepoints like Suez.

Conclusion

The Indo-Greek kingdom set up in north Afghanistan in the beginning of the second century BC was (IAS 1999)
  1. Bactria
  2. Scythia
  3. Zedrasia
  4. Aria
Answer: A
Explanation: The Indo-Greek kingdom in north Afghanistan during the early 2nd century BC was established in Bactria.
  • After the decline of Seleucid control, Diodotus declared independence around 250 BC, founding the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom.
  • Bactria was located in present-day northern Afghanistan and parts of Central Asia.
  • Later rulers such as Demetrius expanded into north-western India, leading to the rise of the Indo-Greek Kingdom.
  • Bactria served as the base from which Greek rulers entered and established control over parts of the Indian subcontinent.

UPSC PYQ

Q. With reference to Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: (2022)

The Indo-Greek kingdom set up in north Afghanistan in the beginning of the second century BC was (IAS 1999)
  1. Bactria
  2. Scythia
  3. Zedrasia
  4. Aria
Answer: A
Explanation: The Indo-Greek kingdom in north Afghanistan during the early 2nd century BC was established in Bactria.
  • After the decline of Seleucid control, Diodotus declared independence around 250 BC, founding the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom.
  • Bactria was located in present-day northern Afghanistan and parts of Central Asia.
  • Later rulers such as Demetrius expanded into north-western India, leading to the rise of the Indo-Greek Kingdom.
  • Bactria served as the base from which Greek rulers entered and established control over parts of the Indian subcontinent.

CARE MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding removal of the Lok Sabha Speaker:

Consider the following statements regarding India–Greece relations:
  1. The Mauryan dynasty was contemporary to Alexander.
  2. The Gandhara school of art reflects Indo-Greek cultural influence.
  3. India and Greece elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2023.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. All three
  4. None
Answer: C Explanation:
  • Statement 1 – Correct Alexander invaded north-western India in 326 BC. The Mauryan dynasty, particularly under Chandragupta Maurya, was broadly contemporary to the period following Alexander’s campaigns. Greek ambassador Megasthenes visited Chandragupta Maurya’s court, as referenced in ancient texts.
  • Statement 2 – Correct The Gandhara school of art emerged as a fusion of Indian and Greek artistic traditions. It developed in the north-western region of the Indian subcontinent and is a classic example of Indo-Greek cultural synthesis.
  • Statement 3 – Correct India and Greece elevated their bilateral relations to the level of a Strategic Partnership in August 2023, marking a significant strengthening of diplomatic and strategic cooperation.
TGPSC Daily Current Affairs 13th February 2026
TGPSC Daily Current Affairs - 11th February 2026
Scroll to Top