Current Affairs - Places

Varanasi achieved a historic milestone by planting 2,51,446 saplings within a single hour, surpassing the previous record held by China for eight years. The large-scale plantation drive was conducted on 350 bighas of land in Domari village along the banks of the Ganga. Around 20,000 participants took part in the synchronised effort, which was officially verified by a Guinness World Records judge. The area has been structured into 60 sectors named after prominent Kashi ghats, creating a symbolic urban forest using the Miyawaki method to promote rapid ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation.

Geneva will host the AI Summit 2027, marking Switzerland’s significant role in advancing global dialogue on artificial intelligence governance. The announcement was made by Swiss President Guy Parmelin during the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Known for being a hub of major international organisations, Geneva provides a neutral platform for multilateral discussions and cooperation. The summit is expected to focus on ethical and inclusive AI frameworks, strengthening partnerships between countries such as Switzerland and India. The hosting also reflects growing global collaboration in AI diplomacy, with the UAE set to host the summit in 2028.

South Central Railway is the zone that launched the next-generation Rail Parcel App to modernise parcel booking and freight logistics. The app functions as a digital freight e-marketplace, enabling customers to book shipments online with features such as doorstep pickup and delivery, real-time tracking, automated notifications, and secure digital payments. Initially rolled out as a pilot project in seven cities, the initiative supports the broader national goal of achieving 3,000 million tonnes of cargo loading by 2030. It also aligns with Indian Railways’ digital transformation strategy to improve efficiency, transparency, and customer convenience in freight services.

Greater Noida hosted the 8th edition of Advantage Healthcare India (AHCI) from 23–25 February 2026. The event was organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and was inaugurated by Health Minister JP Nadda. Recognised as Asia’s largest event focused on Medical Value Travel, it featured a comprehensive exhibition, high-level conference sessions, and a Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet. The platform aimed to promote patient mobility, encourage knowledge exchange, and strengthen India’s position as a global hub for affordable and quality healthcare services.

Maharashtra is the state where the National Arogya Fair 2026 is being organized in Shegaon from February 25–28. The event is hosted by the Ministry of Ayush and highlights major traditional systems of medicine including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy at a single venue. It also features free health check-ups, medical consultations, live demonstrations, exhibitions, and special sessions for farmers focusing on agroforestry and the cultivation of medicinal plants, making it a significant public health and awareness initiative.