School Assembly News Headlines: 18 February 2026

National News

1. India and France announce Special Global Strategic Partnership to strengthen stability prosperity and longstanding bilateral relations worldwide cooperation.

2. AI Impact Summit highlights governance ethics healthcare innovation and global collaboration with new national health AI initiatives launched.

3. Prime Minister Modi welcomes Serbia recognition of India leadership in artificial intelligence at global AI Impact Summit.

4. India strengthens global partnerships through trade reforms and economic cooperation amid evolving international market challenges and opportunities.

International News

1. Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh Prime Minister ending political uncertainty and forming new government with cabinet members.

2. Iran temporarily closes Strait of Hormuz for military drills amid ongoing nuclear negotiations with United States in Geneva.

Sports News

1. Dipendra Singh Airee leads Nepal to historic first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup win against Scotland at Wankhede.

2. Zimbabwe qualifies for Super 8 stage of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after rain affected group match.

Business News

1. Centre urges states to accelerate capital expenditure proposals under SASCI scheme before March deadline for timely utilisation.

2. India emerging as global trade power says Ports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal citing policy reforms and leadership vision.

1. India and France announce Special Global Strategic Partnership to strengthen stability prosperity and longstanding bilateral relations worldwide cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron launched a new partnership in Mumbai. It will boost global stability, academic collaboration, and innovation opportunities for students and researchers worldwide through initiatives.

2. AI Impact Summit highlights governance ethics healthcare innovation and global collaboration with new national health AI initiatives launched
AI Impact Summit featured discussions on governance, ethics, and industry deployment. Health Minister J P Nadda launched SAHI and BODH platforms to promote innovation, data access, and opportunities for students.

3. Prime Minister Modi welcomes Serbia recognition of India leadership in artificial intelligence at global AI Impact Summit
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic praised India’s growing role in artificial intelligence. He called the AI Impact Summit a defining moment, encouraging students to explore emerging technology and research opportunities globally.

4. India strengthens global partnerships through trade reforms and economic cooperation amid evolving international market challenges and opportunities.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India’s strong global engagement and ongoing reforms. He discussed trade challenges, tariffs, and economic shifts, encouraging students to understand global markets and policy changes.

5. CCI approves Axis Asset Management acquisition of portfolio management services business from Axis Securities strengthening financial sector operations.
Competition Commission of India approved Axis Asset Management’s acquisition of portfolio management services from Axis Securities. The move highlights financial sector growth and offers students insights into mergers, regulation, and investment management.

1. Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh Prime Minister ending political uncertainty and forming new government with cabinet members.
Tarique Rahman became Bangladesh Prime Minister after months of interim administration. The new government formation with ministers marks political stability, helping students understand governance transitions and regional political developments.

2. Iran temporarily closes Strait of Hormuz for military drills amid ongoing nuclear negotiations with United States in Geneva.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz for live fire drills while holding nuclear talks with the United States. The move highlights geopolitical tensions and offers students insights into global diplomacy and security.

3. IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva meets Sri Lankan President to review economic recovery and ongoing reform programme progress.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva reviewed Sri Lanka’s recovery with President Anura Dissanayake. She confirmed over 200 million dollars emergency funding support, helping students understand global financial assistance and reforms.

4. Iran and United States hold second round nuclear talks in Geneva reaching initial understanding on guiding principles.
Iran and the United States completed second round nuclear talks in Geneva. Both sides agreed on guiding principles, but further negotiations and draft agreements are needed, offering students insights into diplomacy.

5. United States announces 36 billion dollar Japan financed projects including energy infrastructure and industrial development across multiple states.
The United States announced three major Japan financed projects worth 36 billion dollars. These include energy and industrial facilities, offering students insights into international investment, infrastructure development and economic cooperation.

1. Dipendra Singh Airee leads Nepal to historic first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup win against Scotland at Wankhede.
Nepal secured a memorable win after Dipendra Singh Airee’s half century guided successful chase. Scotland began strongly, giving students exciting lesson in sportsmanship teamwork and tournament performance at global level.

2. Zimbabwe qualifies for Super 8 stage of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after rain affected group match.
Zimbabwe advanced to Super 8 after rain abandoned their match against Ireland. The result ended Australia’s campaign early, offering students insights into tournament rules, weather impact, and competitive cricket outcomes.

1. Centre urges states to accelerate capital expenditure proposals under SASCI scheme before March deadline for timely utilisation.
The Centre asked states to fast track projects under the capital expenditure scheme. Over 1.04 lakh crore released so far, encouraging students to understand public finance, infrastructure development, and budget utilisation.

2. India emerging as global trade power says Ports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal citing policy reforms and leadership vision.
Ports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted India’s rise in global trade through policy reforms and leadership initiatives. The statement encourages students to understand governance impact on trade growth and economic development.