Current Affair of January 2026

National

1. On New Year, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), India's state-owned telecommunications provider, announced the nationwide rollout of Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi), also known as Wi-Fi Calling. The service is now available to BSNL customers across all telecom circles, marking a significant milestone in the company's efforts to enhance voice connectivity across diverse and challenging geographies.

2. Delhi Police have traced 1,303 missing persons in the southwest district over the past year under Operation Milap, reflecting sustained efforts to reunite families and strengthen public trust in policing. The traced individuals include 434 children and 869 adults, with focused action continuing through December 2025.

3. Surat, widely known as India's "Diamond Capital", is on track to become the country's first fully slum-free city. Backed by sustained urban planning and efficient implementation of housing schemes, the Gujarat city is nearing the completion of a long-standing goal to ensure permanent housing for all its residents.

4. India recorded the deaths of 166 tigers in 2025, according to the latest data released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority. The figure marks a sharp rise from 126 tiger deaths reported in 2024, raising renewed concerns over habitat stress, territorial conflict, and emerging conservation challenges despite the country's growing tiger population.

5. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 3^rd January inaugurated a grand international exhibition of sacred relics of Lord Buddha in New Delhi, marking a landmark moment in India's cultural and spiritual heritage preservation. The exhibition has drawn wide attention from historians, scholars, and Buddhist followers from India and abroad.

6. In a major push to heritage-based tourism development, the foundation stone of the Bhoramdev Corridor Development Project was laid at Bhoramdev Dham in Kabirdham district of Chhattisgarh. The initiative aims to enhance pilgrimage infrastructure while preserving the cultural and architectural legacy of one of the State's most iconic temple sites.

7. Haryana has recorded a significant improvement in its sex ratio at birth (SRB), which rose to 923 in 2025, the highest level in the last five years. The figure marks a 13-point increase from 910 in 2024, reflecting sustained administrative and enforcement measures aimed at curbing gender-biased practices in the state.

8. The Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with the Government of Assam, will organise the National Textiles Ministers' Conference on 8^th - 9^th January 2026 in Guwahati. The two-day meet will serve as a national platform to shape a coordinated strategy for positioning India as a global textiles manufacturing hub.

9. Andhra Pradesh has emerged as India's leading investment destination in FY26, capturing the largest share of proposed investments in the country. The state accounted for 25.3% of total proposed investments during the first nine months of the fiscal year, reflecting a strong shift in industrial momentum towards eastern and southern India.

10. Karnataka has documented its first-ever sighting of an ultra-rare leopard colour morph, informally named the "Sandalwood Leopard", marking only the second confirmed instance of this rare big cat in India. The discovery, made in the Vijayanagara district, has drawn national and global attention to the state's rich and genetically diverse wildlife.

11. Barely larger than a fingertip, the galaxy frog is among India's most visually striking amphibians. Its glossy black skin, speckled with pale blue spots and orange markings, resembles a star-filled night sky. Endemic to the Western Ghats of Kerala, this rare species now faces an unexpected threat - unethical wildlife photography.

12. Wildlife enthusiasts have confirmed the presence of the rare Eastern Imperial Eagle at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) during the ongoing winter migratory season. The sighting highlights the growing importance of the reserve as a critical wintering habitat for migratory birds of prey visiting the Indian subcontinent.

13. As part of India's preparations for the India AI Impact Summit 2026, the Rajasthan Regional AI Impact Conference 2026 will be held on 6^th January 2026, in Jaipur. The conference is positioned as a key regional platform to examine how Artificial Intelligence can support governance reform, economic growth, innovation, and inclusive development.

14. Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak was sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court on 9^th January, marking a key judicial transition in the state. The oath of office was administered by Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar at Lok Bhavan in Ranchi, in the presence of senior judicial and political dignitaries.

15. Odisha's Puri has emerged as India's first city where residents can safely drink water straight from the tap, marking a rare public health milestone. The achievement stands in sharp contrast to many Indian cities where unsafe tap water forces households to rely on bottled water or home purifiers, often with fatal consequences from contamination.

16. Political leaders and members of Congress and Kongu organisations have urged the Centre to rename either the Salem Railway Junction or the Salem airport after veteran leader T. M. Kaliyannan. The demand was raised during the observance of his 105^th birth anniversary in Namakkal, highlighting his long and unblemished public life and contributions to democratic institutions.

17. Justice Revati Mohite Dere was sworn in on 10^th January as the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court, marking a historic moment for the matrilineal northeastern state. The oath-taking ceremony was held at the Durbar Hall of Lok Bhavan in Shillong, underscoring a milestone in India's higher judiciary.

18. IIT Madras has launched "Param Shakti", an indigenously developed and manufactured supercomputing system, significantly strengthening India's high-performance computing capabilities. With a peak performance of 3.1 petaflops, the system ranks among the most powerful computing facilities in the country and marks a major milestone in self-reliant digital infrastructure.

19. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah chaired the 9^th Apex-Level Meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, reaffirming the Government of India's commitment to eliminating the drug menace. On the occasion, he also inaugurated the Narcotics Control Bureau office at Amritsar.

20. Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia has announced two new premium postal services, Speed Post 24 and Speed Post 48, aimed at ensuring time-bound delivery within 24 and 48 hours respectively. The announcement marks a significant step in the modernisation and service upgradation of India Post to meet evolving logistics and communication needs.

21. In a landmark ruling reinforcing constitutional equality, the "Supreme Court of India" has clarified that unreserved or 'general' category seats in public recruitment are open to all candidates purely on merit, irrespective of social category. The court held that candidates from reserved categories who qualify on general standards must be counted against unreserved seats.

22. The death of singer and actor Prashant Tamang has once again brought into focus the deep cultural and political imprint he left on the Darjeeling hills. Tamang, who rose from a Kolkata Police constable to national fame after winning Indian Idol in 2007, died of cardiac arrest at his Delhi residence on 11^th January.

23. The Navi Mumbai International Airport will be named after late D. B. Patil, a prominent people's leader associated with farmers' and local rights movements in the region. Maharashtra Chief Minister "Devendra Fadnavis" announced the decision while addressing a public meeting in Airoli, underlining the airport's strategic role in shaping Navi Mumbai's economic future.

24. Odisha Chief Minister "Mohan Charan Majhi" has laid the foundation stone for a Rs. 3,623 crore integrated secretariat and assembly complex in Bhubaneswar. The ambitious project aims to modernise the state's administrative and legislative infrastructure and address long-standing space and safety constraints in existing government buildings.

25. The month-long tribal festival "Boda Tyohar", the biggest annual cultural event of the Hati tribe, has commenced with traditional fervour in Nahan and across the Trans-Giri region of Sirmour district in Himachal Pradesh. Celebrated by over three lakh community members, the festival reflects the primitive traits, social values and distinct cultural identity of the Hati people.

26. India's mustard crop, the country's largest indigenous source of edible oil, is facing a growing agronomic challenge from the parasitic weed Orobanche aegyptiaca. Cultivated across nearly nine million hectares, mainly in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and West Bengal, mustard plays a critical role in domestic edible oil production and import substitution.

27. The Supreme Court on 13^th January, delivered a split verdict on the constitutional validity of Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, a provision that mandates prior sanction before initiating any probe against a public servant for decisions taken in the discharge of official duties. The matter will now be placed before the Chief Justice of India for constitution of a larger bench to settle the issue conclusively.

28. The Union government is exploring ways to strengthen community-led forest management by facilitating funding support for Community Forest Resource (CFR) management committees constituted under the Forest Rights Act. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is in discussions with the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change to support gram sabhas that have been vested forest management rights across the country.

29. The Delhi High Court has observed that the PM CARES Fund retains a right to privacy under the Right to Information Act even if it is assumed to be run or controlled by the government. The Court clarified that privacy protections available to third parties under the RTI Act apply uniformly, irrespective of whether an entity is public or private in nature.

30. India is set to host the 28^th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in New Delhi, marking a significant moment in the country's parliamentary and democratic journey. The three-day conference, beginning 14^th January, will bring together Speakers and Presiding Officers from over 60 Commonwealth countries and semi-autonomous Parliaments.

31. West Bengal has been placed on high alert after two samples tested positive for Nipah virus, a zoonotic infection known for its high fatality rate. The confirmation came from the National Institute of Virology, Pune, following re-testing of samples from two nurses admitted to a hospital in Barasat. Both patients remain in critical condition.

32. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on his official induction into Kenjutsu, an ancient Japanese art of swordsmanship. The recognition marks a rare global honour in the field of traditional Japanese martial arts and highlights Pawan Kalyan's long-standing commitment to physical discipline alongside his public and cinematic career.

33. Prabhas Patan stands as a living repository of India's sacred and historical legacy, where inscriptions, copper plates, and memorial stones narrate centuries of devotion, resilience, and royal patronage. Epigraphic records discovered across the Prabhas region, especially those linked to the Somnath Temple, reflect the area's prosperity and its enduring role as a centre of Sanatan Dharma.

34. The National Dam Safety Authority has issued a stern show-cause notice to the Narmada Valley Development Authority over serious safety lapses at the Bargi Dam in Madhya Pradesh's Jabalpur district. The notice highlights alleged violations of the Dam Safety Act, 2021, and warns that continued non-compliance could pose grave risks to public safety in downstream areas.

35. The two-day Indian Lighthouse Festival 3.0 concluded in Visakhapatnam with a renewed focus on maritime heritage, coastal culture, and lighthouse-led tourism. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said the festival transformed Visakhapatnam into a beacon of India's coastal identity, highlighting how cultural engagement and infrastructure development can strengthen maritime awareness and local livelihoods.

36. Bamanwas Kankar gram panchayat in Rajasthan has emerged as the State's first village body to be certified as fully organic, marking a major milestone in community-led sustainable agriculture. Located in the newly formed Kotputli-Behror district, the panchayat comprises seven hamlets and has adopted chemical-free farming and ecological livestock practices to address environmental degradation and public health concerns.

37. At least 38 thatched houses belonging to members of the Konda Reddi tribal community were destroyed in a fire mishap at Sarlanka village in Prathipadu mandal of Kakinada district. The incident occurred late on 12^th January night, while most residents had left the village to attend the weekly shandy ahead of Sankranti celebrations. No loss of human life or cattle was reported.

38. Indian Railways has launched a One-Time Password (OTP) based ticketing system to strengthen passenger identity verification and curb illegal booking practices. The move aims to enhance transparency, improve travel security, and prevent misuse of the ticketing infrastructure across major rail routes in the country.

39. The hill shrine of Sabarimala Temple in Kerala is witnessing heightened activity as it prepares for the Makara Vilakku festival, to be observed on 14^th January, coinciding with Makara Sankrama night. Thousands of pilgrims have already reached the region to witness the sacred Makarajyothi at Ponnambalamedu, regarded as the spiritual culmination of the annual pilgrimage season.

40. India has expanded its livestock genetic base with the registration of two high-yielding synthetic cattle breeds capable of producing over 3,000 kg of milk in a 10-month lactation period. With this addition, the country's total number of registered livestock and poultry breeds has reached 246, reinforcing India's dual strategy of productivity enhancement and indigenous breed conservation.

41. Delhi experienced its first intense cold wave of the winter season as biting temperatures gripped the national capital, prompting the weather department to issue a yellow alert. The cold spell pushed minimum temperatures at several locations to near-freezing levels, disrupting daily routines and intensifying health and air quality concerns across the city.

42. The iconic Chadar trek on the frozen Zanskar river in Ladakh has been deferred after authorities found that the river surface has not frozen sufficiently to ensure safe movement. The postponement has disappointed adventure enthusiasts who had planned to participate in one of India's most challenging winter treks.

43. India is preparing a major liberalisation of foreign direct investment (FDI) norms in the defence sector to draw global manufacturers and boost domestic production, according to a Reuters report citing government sources. The proposed changes are part of a broader push to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.

44. The purple mark on a voter's finger has long symbolised the integrity of elections in India. Known as indelible ink, it is intended to prevent multiple voting. During recent municipal corporation elections in Maharashtra, this routine safeguard has sparked controversy, with Opposition parties alleging that the ink is easily coming off, raising concerns about possible electoral malpractice.

45. Ponduru Khadi, a rare hand-woven cotton fabric from Andhra Pradesh, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant milestone for India's traditional Khadi sector. The recognition is expected to enhance global visibility, ensure legal protection, and improve market access for artisans associated with this centuries-old craft.

46. Advancing the vision of inclusive, equitable and culturally rooted tribal development, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs will organise India's first National Capacity Building Programme for Tribal Healers on Strengthening Health Outreach in Tribal Areas on 16^th - 17^th January 2026, in Hyderabad, Telangana. The initiative marks a significant step towards formally recognising and integrating tribal and indigenous healers into India's public health ecosystem as trusted community-level partners.

47. Union Home Minister "Amit Shah" on 16^th January, inaugurated the third International Kite Festival at Baansera Park in New Delhi, highlighting the cultural, historical, and unifying significance of kite flying in India. He called upon the Delhi government and the Delhi Development Authority to expand the festival and develop Delhi as the national hub for kite celebrations.

48. The Foundation Day of the Lokpal of India was observed on 16^th January, commemorating the coming into force of Section 3 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, on 16^th January 2014. The event marked the institutional establishment of India's apex anti-corruption body and reflected on its evolving role in strengthening transparency and accountability in public life.

49. The two-day annual monastic festival of Spituk Monastery, known as Spituk Gustor, has commenced in Ladakh, marking a significant spiritual and cultural moment in the region's calendar. Observed after a week-long period of prayers and rituals, the festival is dedicated to seeking world peace, prosperity and the triumph of good over evil.

50. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated the National Paralympic Powerlifting Championship on 16^th January, describing the last decade as a golden chapter in India's sporting history. Addressing the inaugural ceremony from COER University in Roorkee, he said Indian sports have undergone an unprecedented transformation, marked by wider participation, improved infrastructure and growing global recognition.

51. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on 17^th January laid the foundation stone for large-scale green hydrogen and green ammonia plants at Kakinada, reinforcing the State's ambition to emerge as a national green energy hub. The project marks a significant step in India's clean energy transition and positions Kakinada as a future 'Green Hydrogen Valley'.

52. Punjab Police on 20^th January, launched 'Operation Parhar', a large-scale crackdown aimed at dismantling organised gangster networks and making the state crime-free. The operation marks one of the most extensive coordinated law enforcement actions in recent years, reflectingr reflecting the state's intensified push against organised crime and its supporting ecosystem.

53. India has taken a significant step towards harnessing its ocean-based economic potential with the launch of the country's first open-sea marine fish farming project in the Andaman Sea. The pilot initiative marks a major milestone in India's Blue Economy journey and reflects a strategic shift towards utilising marine resources for sustainable growth and livelihoods.

54. The Election Commission of India (ECI) will host the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) 2026 in New Delhi from 21^st to 23^rd January, bringing together election officials, policymakers and academic experts from across the world. The event aims to showcase India's electoral practices and foster global dialogue on strengthening democratic institutions.

55. The Geological Survey of India will host the 65^th meeting of the Central Geological Programming Board on 21^st January in New Delhi, marking an important forum for shaping India's geoscience and mineral exploration agenda. Convened under the Ministry of Mines, the meeting will bring together stakeholders from central ministries, state governments, industry, academia and mining bodies to align exploration strategies with national development priorities.

56. Delhi is set to overhaul its emergency response framework with the launch of a unified emergency helpline number, 112. Announcing the initiative, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the move aligns the national capital with the Centre's vision of a single, easily accessible emergency number for all citizens.

57. A new species of hedgehog, never before recorded in India, has been discovered in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, marking a significant addition to the country's known biodiversity. The finding has been confirmed through DNA analysis and detailed morphological studies conducted by wildlife experts.

58. The sixth ASEAN-India Digital Ministers' Meeting (ADGMIN) was held virtually, reaffirming the shared commitment of ASEAN Member States and India to deepen cooperation in the digital domain. The annual forum brought together telecom and digital ministers to review progress and chart future priorities for regional digital integration and inclusion.

59. The 86^th All India Presiding Officers Conference (AIPOC) commenced today at the Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha in Lucknow, bringing together presiding officers and senior legislative functionaries from across the country. The conference serves as a key national platform for deliberations on strengthening parliamentary democracy and improving legislative functioning.

60. A new species of ginger, "Parakaempferia alba", has been discovered in the Siang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, reaffirming the Eastern Himalayas as one of the world's most significant biodiversity hotspots. The discovery adds to India's rich botanical record and highlights the ecological importance of the lesser-explored forest ecosystems of the region.

61. A joint research collaboration between Indian and Chinese universities has unveiled a sustainable method to protect metals from corrosion using waste apple leaves. The breakthrough offers an eco-friendly alternative to toxic industrial inhibitors and highlights the growing role of green chemistry in infrastructure and manufacturing.

62. The Indian Railways' One Station One Product (OSOP) initiative has emerged as a nationwide platform for promoting local craftsmanship and grassroots entrepreneurship. By transforming railway stations into showcases of regional identity, the scheme provides artisans and small producers with direct market access while enriching the passenger experience across India's vast rail network.

63. The International Buddhist Confederation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, will organise the second edition of the Global Buddhist Summit on 24^th and 25^th January 2026. The event will take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi and is expected to serve as a major international forum for dialogue on Buddhist perspectives addressing contemporary global challenges.

64. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Bagurumba Dwhou 2026, a landmark cultural event celebrating the heritage of the Bodo community, at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati. The Prime Minister described the occasion as a vibrant expression of Assam's cultural identity and reiterated his commitment to giving the state's art and traditions a national and global platform.

65. Authorities in western Madhya Pradesh's Neemuch district are on high alert following a sudden outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare immune-mediated neurological disorder. The outbreak has resulted in the deaths of two children and raised serious public health concerns in border areas adjoining Rajasthan.

66. Twenty-five years after attaining statehood, Jharkhand has notified rules under the Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), promising enhanced self-governance for tribal communities in Fifth Schedule Areas. The long-delayed move has reopened constitutional, political and social debates over the authority of the Gram Sabha, the role of customary law and the extent of administrative control.

67. Telangana has secured international backing for its flagship urban development initiative, Bharat Future City, with the United Arab Emirates agreeing to collaborate on the project. The announcement followed high-level discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos, positioning the proposed city as India's first net-zero greenfield smart city and a key pillar of the state's long-term economic vision.

68. Amid growing controversy over a proposal to reduce the notified boundary of Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary in Shivamogga district, Karnataka Forest Minister Shri Eshwar Khandre visited the sanctuary to assess the situation on the ground. The visit comes as debates intensify between the state government and conservationists over legal, ecological and livelihood concerns linked to the sanctuary's extent.

69. Recent walkouts by Governors during inaugural State Legislative Assembly sessions in Opposition-ruled Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala have triggered a constitutional debate on the scope of gubernatorial discretion. These actions, involving selective reading or abrupt termination of the Governor's address, are being viewed as a departure from the limited constitutional role envisaged for the office within India's parliamentary democracy.

70. Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar created history by unfurling the national flag alongside President Droupadi Murmu during the 77^th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. The ceremonial honour highlighted India's growing emphasis on women in uniform and marked a defining moment in Dhankar's young but distinguished military career.

71. India is facing a rapidly intensifying diabetes epidemic, with Tamil Nadu emerging as a major hotspot. Recent evidence highlights a sharp rise in both diabetes and prediabetes, signalling deep-rooted lifestyle and dietary challenges. Experts warn that without urgent policy and behavioural interventions, the burden of non-communicable diseases could overwhelm health systems.

72. For the first time in India's history, double-humped Bactrian camels from Ladakh marched down Kartavya Path during the Republic Day Parade. Named Galwan and Nubra, their appearance was more than ceremonial. It highlighted a rare Himalayan species, its strategic value for India, and its deep historical links to the ancient Silk Route.

73. The Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region and Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on 26^th January, launched two major bamboo sector projects worth Rs. 82.5 crore in Guwahati, reinforcing the Centre's focus on livelihood generation, sustainable industry, and economic integration of the North Eastern Region with national markets.

74. Goa is examining the possibility of introducing an Australia-like ban on social media use for children below the age of 16, reflecting growing concerns over the impact of digital platforms on minors' mental health. The move comes amid wider debates in India, one of the world's largest internet markets, over the absence of nationwide regulations governing children's access to social media.

75. Researchers studying the temperate forests of the Indian Himalayas have identified a previously unknown species of mushroom, marking the first official record of its genus in India. The discovery highlights the rich but underexplored fungal diversity of Himalayan ecosystems and adds a new dimension to India's documented biodiversity.

76. Kerala has created a national first by officially declaring a microorganism as its State Microbe, underlining the growing importance of microbiome research in health, agriculture, and sustainability. The announcement reflects the State's focus on science-led development and innovation-driven economic growth.

77. India's only basaltic meteor impact crater, Lonar Lake in Maharashtra, is facing an unprecedented environmental crisis as rising freshwater inflows threaten to irreversibly alter its unique ecology and heritage. Formed around 50,000 years ago, the lake has long been studied as a rare terrestrial analogue for Martian geology, owing to its extreme chemistry and isolated ecosystem.

78. The Ministry of Jal Shakti recognised grassroots champions of water, sanitation, and hygiene at a 'Samvad Samaroh' held in New Delhi, celebrating community-led progress under national water and sanitation missions. The programme underscored Jan Bhagidari as the backbone of India's rural water security and sanitation drive.

79. The National Statistics Office is strengthening India's statistical capacity with preparations for two landmark nationwide surveys aimed at addressing long-standing data gaps on household incomes and the corporate services sector. These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance evidence-based policymaking and economic analysis.

80. In a major step towards preserving India's classical medical heritage, a 15-day transliteration capacity-building workshop on Ayurvedic manuscripts has been successfully completed in Kerala. The initiative strengthens research-led revival of ancient medical knowledge through systematic documentation and scholarly engagement.

81. Uttarakhand has strengthened its landmark Uniform Civil Code framework with the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, marking a year since the UCC came into force in the State. The move aims to streamline procedures, enhance transparency, and align penal provisions with India's updated legal codes.

82. Republic Day Parade 2026 on 26^th January is set to present a distinctive chapter in India's ceremonial history. The parade on Kartavya Path will feature, for the first time, a dedicated animal contingent of the Indian Army, reflecting the armed forces' continued reliance on animals for operations in some of the world's most extreme terrains.

83. India and Canada on 27^th signed a Joint Statement on Energy Cooperation on the sidelines of India Energy Week 2026 in Goa, reaffirming their intent to strengthen bilateral collaboration across conventional and clean energy sectors. The agreement signals renewed momentum in ties after both countries committed to re-engaging at senior political and working levels.

84. A chartered aircraft carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party chief Ajit Pawar crash-landed near the runway threshold at Baramati on 28^th January morning, triggering a major emergency response. The aircraft was flying from Mumbai to Baramati and met with the accident at around 8.45 am.

85. Maharashtra has become the first state in India to establish dedicated menopause clinics within government hospitals and urban health facilities, marking a significant step towards women-centric public healthcare. The initiative aims to address the long-ignored physical and mental health challenges faced by women during menopause through structured and accessible medical support.

86. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has launched the 'Samikshya' portal to enable real-time monitoring of projects funded under the State Finance Commission (SFC) and Central Finance Commission (CFC) grants. The digital platform marks a significant step towards strengthening transparency, accountability and timely delivery of public services at the grassroots level across the state.

87. The Supreme Court declined to entertain a petition challenging the practice of 'VIP darshan' at the Shri Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain, observing that courts are not meant to regulate who enters a temple and at what time. The Bench underlined that such matters fall within the domain of temple administration and state authorities, not judicial adjudication.

88. On the eve of the 77^th Republic Day, the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj organised a special felicitation ceremony in New Delhi to honour elected Panchayat representatives invited as Special Guests for the Republic Day celebrations. The event highlighted the Centre's focus on strengthening grassroots governance through recognition, digital innovation and outcome-based reforms.

89. The Karnataka government has formally constituted the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Development Board under the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare Development) Act, 2025, marking a significant step towards institutionalising social security for gig and platform workers in the State.

90. The 12^th edition of the Smile International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFFCY) commenced in New Delhi 28^th January, reaffirming the role of cinema as a tool for social awareness and youth engagement. The seven-day festival is being organised by the Smile Foundation in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.

91. A 29-year-old man from Tirthahalli taluk in Karnataka has died after contracting Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly known as monkey fever, drawing renewed attention to a zoonotic infection that often escapes public focus until severe outcomes occur. The patient passed away on 28^th January at a hospital in Udupi district, despite early detection and swift medical referral.

92. The Supreme Court of India on 29^th January stayed the implementation of the University Grants Commission's (UGC) Equity Regulations 2026, putting on hold a controversial framework that sparked widespread campus protests, political reactions and multiple legal challenges. The interim order has ensured that the earlier 2012 regulations will continue to govern issues of equity and discrimination in higher education for now.

93. Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district on 29^th January became the first in the country to collect property tax through the SAMARTH Panchayat portal, marking a major step in digital rural governance. The initiative was formally launched at Sankara gram panchayat in Nagri block, where a resident successfully paid property tax using a UPI-enabled online payment gateway.

94. On the occasion of National Leprosy Day, observed on 30^th January, a comprehensive public awareness programme was organised at Dilli Haat to promote early detection and reduce stigma associated with leprosy. The outreach initiative aimed to sensitise the public through interactive and inclusive communication activities.

95. The Ministry of Jal Shakti organised a special interaction programme in New Delhi, bringing together grassroots change-makers, WaSH Warriors and school students to strengthen public participation in water conservation. The programme was led by Union Minister Shri C. R. Paatil and highlighted community-led efforts in river rejuvenation, drinking water and sanitation.

96. In a significant wildlife discovery, the rare Rusty-spotted Cat, one of the smallest wild cat species in the world, has been recorded alive in the Shergarh forest of Baran district, Rajasthan. Forest officials confirmed that the elusive feline was captured in a camera trap installed in the Shergarh Sanctuary, marking the first live record of the species in the Hadoti region.

97. Sunetra Pawar is set to be sworn in as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister on 31^st January 2026, at 5 pm, marking a significant political transition following the demise of Nationalist Congress Party chief Ajit Pawar. The development is expected to bring stability to the ruling coalition amid a sensitive leadership change in the state.

98. The night sky over Hanle in Ladakh turned an eerie blood-red in mid-January, stunning observers and flooding social media with images likened to the Northern Lights. Yet scientists stress that the spectacle was not merely a visual rarity. It was a warning sign of intense solar activity with real implications for Earth’s technological systems.

99. Continuous rainfall across central and eastern Gujarat pushed the Vishwamitri River in Vadodara close to the city's flood benchmark on 31^st January, triggering precautionary alerts but no immediate flood threat, according to civic authorities. The rising water levels have revived public anxiety, especially after the severe floods witnessed in August 2024.

100. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha's Nuapada district, recently declared Maoist-free, is witnessing a significant rise in leopard presence, officials said. The development has renewed conservation optimism for the 600 sq km forest, which is also a proposed tiger reserve and has long been affected by Left-wing extremism.

101. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation has taken a major step in its digital transformation journey with the go-live of Pragya-AIX, an Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Exchange designed to embed AI into day-to-day operations. The initiative marks a shift from experimental pilots to a fully functional AI ecosystem across the company's upstream activities.

102. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has operationalised a new web-based portal, PAIMANA (Project Assessment, Infrastructure Monitoring & Analytics for Nation-building), to monitor Central Sector Infrastructure Projects with a cost of Rs. 150 crore and above. The portal replaces the earlier OCMS-2006 system and marks a significant upgrade in how large infrastructure projects are tracked and analysed by the Government of India.

103. The Directorate of Enforcement has intensified its probe into a Rs. 126 crore money laundering case involving a real estate firm by filing a supplementary prosecution complaint. The action underscores the agency’s focus on alleged diversion of homebuyers’ funds and the use of layered financial transactions to generate and conceal proceeds of crime.

104. The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority has rolled out the NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme (NSPS) on a pilot basis, attempting to link retirement savings with healthcare spending. While the concept promises flexibility for medical expenses, personal finance experts caution that the scheme suits only a limited segment of subscribers and cannot replace health insurance.

105. Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a leading force in India's civil aviation landscape after receiving the national award for 'Most Proactive State' under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN in the Non-Priority Area category. The recognition highlights the state's sustained policy push to improve air connectivity, particularly linking smaller cities with major urban centres, and reflects the broader development vision pursued by the state government.

106. The fifth edition of the Rusoma Orange Festival commenced today at Rusoma village in Nagaland, marking another step in showcasing rural prosperity through horticulture-led development. The festival is being held around 10 kilometres from the state capital, Kohima, and highlights the growing economic and cultural importance of orange cultivation in the region.

107. Odisha has announced plans to establish the National UAV Test and Innovation Corridor at Rangeilunda, marking a major milestone in India's drone and advanced mobility ecosystem. The initiative was unveiled at Wings India 2026 in Hyderabad and positions the state as a frontline contributor to next-generation unmanned aerial systems development.

108. Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable transport by operationalising the country's first LNG-Diesel dual-fuel Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) train. The initiative marks a decisive step towards reducing emissions and fuel costs in rail operations, aligning with broader national clean energy goals.

109. A 45-year-old man from Delhi is in critical condition after developing a rare and severe drug reaction following the unsupervised use of HIV preventive medicines. The case has raised serious concerns over self-medication, illegal over-the-counter drug sales, and growing dependence on artificial intelligence platforms for medical advice without professional consultation.

110. Mumbai is set to host a landmark urban climate event, positioning climate action as a fundamental child rights issue. Titled Mumbai Climate Week 2026, the three-day programme will be held from 17^th to 19^th February and marks India's first city-led initiative focused on citizen-driven climate solutions with a strong emphasis on children and youth participation.

111. Kochi will host the 9^th edition of the International Spice Conference (ISC 2026) from 23^rd to 26^th February, positioning India once again at the centre of global discussions on the spice economy. Organised by the All India Spices Exporters Forum (AISEF), the four-day event will bring together policymakers, exporters, researchers and innovators from across continents to deliberate on the future trajectory of the global spice industry.

112. India will host the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026, a global conference-cum-exhibition for the power and electricity sector, from 19^th to 22^nd March 2026, at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi. The announcement was formally made by Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs "Manohar Lal", marking the official commencement of preparations for the flagship event.

113. India is set to host Bharat Steel 2026, a two-day international conference-cum-exhibition organised by the Ministry of Steel, on 16^th - 17^th April at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The summit is positioned as a major platform to influence global discourse on steelmaking at a time when sustainability, supply chain resilience and technological transformation are reshaping the sector worldwide.

114. Steel Authority of India Limited has secured the prestigious 'Great Place to Work' certification for the period February 2026 to February 2027, marking the third consecutive year of recognition. The achievement reflects the company's sustained focus on nurturing trust, inclusivity, and a people-centric organisational culture across its operations.

International

1. Continuing a long-standing confidence-building practice, India and Pakistan on 1^st January 2026 exchanged lists of their nuclear installations under a bilateral agreement that prohibits attacks on each other's atomic facilities. The exchange took place despite strained relations between the two neighbours following four days of military hostilities in May last year.

2. Turkmenistan has formally legalised cryptocurrency mining and exchange operations, marking a significant policy shift in one of the world's most tightly controlled economies. The new legislation, signed on 1^st January 2026, brings virtual assets under the country's civil law framework and introduces a regulated structure for crypto-related activities.

3. India has made a significant leap in global drug safety monitoring, rising to the 8^th position worldwide in pharmacovigilance contributions to the World Health Organization. This marks a sharp improvement from its 123^rd rank a decade ago, reflecting sustained reforms in drug regulation, reporting systems, and quality standards.

4. Iran has appointed a new central bank governor as mounting economic pressure and a sharp currency collapse triggered widespread protests across the country. The leadership change comes amid public anger over soaring prices, inflation, and the rapid depreciation of the Iranian rial against the US dollar.

5. The United States carried out what it described as a "large-scale strike" on Venezuela early 3^rd 2026, triggering explosions across the capital Caracas and plunging parts of the city into power outages. US President Donald Trump claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife had been captured and flown out of the country, an assertion that has intensified uncertainty over Venezuela's political control.

6. Indonesian authorities have raised the alert level for Mount Bur Ni Telong, an active stratovolcano in Aceh province, following a sharp increase in volcanic and seismic activity. The move comes amid ongoing recovery efforts in the region after deadly floods and landslides earlier this month.

7. The United States has invited India and Australia to participate in a meeting of G7 finance ministers focused on securing critical minerals supply chains. The talks, hosted in Washington, come amid growing concerns among advanced economies over heavy dependence on China for minerals essential to defence, technology, and clean energy transitions.

8. The United States and allied forces have conducted large-scale airstrikes across Syria under Operation Hawkeye Strike, targeting multiple Islamic State positions. The strikes, confirmed by US Central Command, were carried out around midday local time and marked a significant escalation in counter-ISIS operations following a deadly attack on American personnel last month.

9. Indonesia has become the first country to block access to Grok, an artificial intelligence chatbot linked to Elon Musk, citing serious concerns over the generation of explicit and non-consensual sexual deepfakes. The decision reflects growing global unease over the misuse of generative AI tools and their impact on digital safety, human rights, and online governance.

10. Italy has conferred one of its most respected civilian honours, the Cavaliere dell'Ordine della Stella d'Italia, on Goa-based industrialist Shrinivas Dempo in recognition of his services to Italian citizens and bilateral interests in India. The honour highlights Dempo's role in strengthening people-to-people and institutional ties between India and Italy.

11. The United States is set to host a high-level meeting of Group of Seven ministers this week to discuss rare earths and other critical raw materials, amid rising tensions between China and Japan over export restrictions. The talks underline growing concern among advanced economies about dependence on China-dominated supply chains that underpin defence manufacturing, clean energy, and high-technology industries.

12. The International Court of Justice on 12^th January, began three weeks of hearings to determine whether Myanmar committed genocide against its Rohingya Muslim minority, marking a crucial phase in one of the most significant international legal cases of recent years. The proceedings are being held at the Peace Palace in The Hague amid close global scrutiny.

13. The United States has announced a sweeping trade measure imposing a 25% tariff on any country conducting business with Iran. The decision was declared by US President "Donald Trump" amid escalating protests in Iran and allegations of a harsh state crackdown. The move marks a significant escalation in Washington's pressure strategy against Tehran and has wide-ranging implications for global trade partners, including India.

14. Malaysia has temporarily blocked access to Grok, the generative artificial intelligence chatbot developed by Elon Musk-led xAI, following allegations that the tool enabled the creation and circulation of sexualised and non-consensual images. The move comes a day after Indonesia became the first country to restrict access to Grok.

15. India reiterated its strong commitment to a just, equitable and sustainable global energy transition at the 16^th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency held in Abu Dhabi. Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi delivered India's national statement, outlining the country's progress, priorities and expectations from global cooperation in accelerating renewable energy deployment.

16. On 12^th January 2026, Egypt witnessed a landmark moment in its parliamentary history when "Abla El Hawary" presided over the opening session of the House of Representatives. At 79, she became the first woman to lead parliamentary proceedings in the 160-year history of Egypt's legislature, marking a significant milestone for women's political representation in the country.

17. Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh will undertake an official visit to Israel from 13^th - 15^th January 2026 to participate in the Second Global Summit on Blue Food Security: Sea the Future, being held in Eilat. The visit highlights the deepening strategic and economic engagement between India and Israel, particularly in fisheries, aquaculture and the broader blue economy.

18. India fell to third place among buyers of Russian fossil fuels in December 2025 as private and state-owned refiners sharply reduced crude oil imports from Russia. This shift, highlighted by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), reflects the combined impact of sanctions, operational caution by refiners, and changing global trade dynamics in energy markets.

19. In a significant diplomatic first, a senior Indian diplomat has been nominated to chair a key United Nations body dealing with global arms control and disarmament. The appointment underscores India's growing stature in international security and multilateral diplomacy, particularly in debates on nuclear risk reduction and strategic stability.

20. China has unveiled its most advanced ballistic missile submarine, the Type 096 Tang-Class, marking a major upgrade in its undersea nuclear capabilities. Revealed on 14^th January, the platform signals a potential shift in the strategic balance beneath the oceans, as China moves closer to matching long-established sea-based deterrence capabilities of leading naval powers.

21. The United Arab Emirates has achieved a landmark position in global mobility, with its passport ranking fifth worldwide in the Henley Passport Index 2026. This marks the highest-ever ranking for the UAE and cements its status as the most powerful passport in the Middle East.

22. Scientists operating China's Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak have achieved a major breakthrough in nuclear fusion research by sustaining plasma densities far beyond a long-established theoretical limit. The advance marks a significant step towards achieving burning plasma, a critical stage where fusion reactions become self-sustaining and viable for future power generation.

23. In a significant milestone for rare disease treatment, the United States Food and Drug Administration has approved Zycubo (copper histidinate) for the treatment of paediatric patients with Menkes disease. The approval marks the first and only authorised therapy for the condition in the United States, offering new hope for affected children and their families.

24. India's passport strength has shown a modest recovery in the latest global mobility rankings, with the Indian passport climbing five places to rank 80^th in the Henley Passport Index 2026. The improvement reflects incremental gains in international travel access for Indian citizens, even as global mobility patterns remain uneven.

25. The World Intellectual Foundation is set to launch the Responsible Nations Index on 19^th January, marking a new global initiative to assess how countries perform across key dimensions of responsibility in domestic governance, environmental stewardship, and international engagement. The launch reflects growing global emphasis on ethical governance, sustainability, and cooperative global behaviour.

26. Yemen's internationally recognised government has witnessed a leadership change after Prime Minister Salem bin Breik submitted his resignation. The Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) accepted the move and appointed Foreign Minister Shaya Mohsen Zindani as the new prime minister, tasking him with forming a fresh cabinet at a politically sensitive moment for the war-torn country.

27. Huntington's disease (HD), a progressive and inherited neurological disorder, has long been regarded as incurable. Affecting movement, cognition, and emotional regulation, the condition is usually diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 50, with patients typically surviving 15-20 years after diagnosis. Although rarer than Alzheimer's disease, HD has a profound social impact because it strikes during prime working and family-raising years.

28. Beneath forests, grasslands and farmlands lies a vast underground fungal system that quietly regulates Earth's climate. These mycorrhizal networks form nutrient-trading partnerships with plant roots and draw down over 13 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.

29. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, will undertake an official visit to India on 19^th January. The visit underscores the sustained momentum in bilateral engagement and reflects the deepening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

30. For millennia, rivers have shaped human civilisation and sustained life, from the Ganga and Indus to the Nile and Amazon. Yet scientists believe the world's oldest river still flowing today is not found in Asia or Africa, but in the arid heart of Australia. Geological evidence points to the Finke River as the oldest surviving river system on Earth.

31. The first tropical cyclone of the year, Tropical Storm Nokaen, locally named Ada, is posing fresh risks for communities around Mayon Volcano in the Philippines. Authorities have warned that the storm could trigger dangerous lahars and muddy streamflows due to heavy rainfall, compounding the ongoing volcanic hazards on Luzon island.

32. About 14,400 years ago, a weeks-old wolf puppy roaming the Ice Age landscape of northeastern Siberia consumed its final meal - meat from a woolly rhinoceros. Preserved in permafrost near the village of Tumat, the puppy's remains have now yielded a scientific first: the recovery of a complete woolly rhinoceros genome from undigested stomach contents, offering rare insight into the species' final days.

33. The Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) and the Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX) opened on 20^th January at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, bringing together global stakeholders to present cutting-edge developments in unmanned systems, robotics, simulation and training technologies.

34. The United States has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, starting 21^st January, as part of a renewed immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump's administration. The decision, confirmed by the US State Department, has triggered widespread debate due to the unexpected inclusion of several economically stable and friendly nations.

35. Chile has declared a state of emergency after devastating wildfires swept through its southern regions, killing at least 15 people and forcing the evacuation of more than 50,000 residents. The blazes, intensified by strong winds and high summer temperatures, are among the deadliest the country has witnessed in recent years.

36. The "International Monetary Fund" has raised its global growth forecast for 2026 to 3.3%, signalling sustained resilience in the world economy despite persistent trade tensions, geopolitical conflicts, and supply-chain disruptions. The upward revision is driven largely by a surge in artificial intelligence-led investment, which the Fund says is offsetting the drag from protectionist trade policies.

37. US President "Donald Trump" has invited India to join a proposed international "Board of Peace" to oversee post-war governance and reconstruction in "Gaza", according to reports citing official sources. The move is part of Trump's broader ceasefire initiative and a 20-point Comprehensive Plan aimed at stabilising the conflict-hit territory and managing its transition to long-term governance.

38. The "World Economic Forum" Annual Meeting 2026 begins today in Davos, Switzerland, bringing together more than 3,000 global leaders at a time of slowing growth, geopolitical strain, rapid technological change, and declining global trust. Held under the theme "A Spirit of Dialogue", the five-day summit aims to revive cooperation between governments, businesses, and institutions amid mounting global uncertainty.

39. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Council President Antonio Luís Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will pay a State Visit to India from 25^th to 27^th January. The two European Union leaders will be the Chief Guests at India's 77^th Republic Day celebrations, marking a significant milestone in India-EU relations.

40. Guatemala has entered a period of heightened security after President "Bernardo Arévalo" declared a 30-day state of siege following deadly gang-linked violence. The decision came after seven police officers were killed in coordinated attacks, apparently in retaliation for authorities regaining control of maximum-security prisons seized by inmates during violent riots.

41. China's demographic decline deepened in 2025 as the country recorded its fourth consecutive annual fall in population, underlining mounting social and economic pressures despite expanded family-support policies. Official data released on Monday showed that the population fell by 3 million to 1.404 billion, keeping "China" as the world's second-most populous nation, behind India.

42. South Africa's oldest Hindu temple and a nationally protected monument in Durban is facing the risk of discontinued civic services after accumulating unpaid bills exceeding half a million rands. The development has triggered concern across the Indian-origin community, with allegations of financial irregularities surfacing at the 151-year-old place of worship.

43. Singapore has emerged as the world's most responsible nation, while India secured the 16^th position in the newly released Responsible Nations' Index (RNI), a global assessment that shifts focus from power and wealth to ethical and responsible governance.

44. Israel has announced its immediate withdrawal from seven United Nations agencies and affiliated bodies, days after the United States exited 66 international organisations. The decision marks a significant escalation in Israel's disengagement from multilateral forums and reflects growing tensions with UN institutions over allegations of political bias and bureaucratic inefficiency.

45. Abu Dhabi has once again secured the top position in the global safety rankings, being crowned the world's safest city for the tenth straight year. The recognition comes from the latest Numbeo Global Safety Index 2026, reinforcing the UAE capital's reputation for public security, low crime, and high quality of urban life.

46. China's Fengyun-3D meteorological satellite has detected that iceberg A23a, once the largest iceberg in the world by surface area, has entered the final stage of disintegration. Recent satellite observations indicate that the massive ice body, which detached from Antarctica nearly four decades ago, is rapidly shrinking and may completely disappear in the coming weeks.

47. Indian-origin attorney "Keshav Poddar" has been sworn in as deputy mayor of "Jersey City", taking charge of housing and economic development in the city's new administration. Poddar took his oath on the "Bhagwat Gita", underlining his Indian heritage while assuming one of the city's most consequential policy roles.

48. Agricultural pollution is often associated with visible runoff and fertiliser use, but a more persistent problem lies beneath the surface. Across large areas of the United States, phosphorus has been accumulating in soils for decades at levels far exceeding crop requirements. While essential for plant growth, excess phosphorus has become a major environmental concern, with long-term consequences for soil health and water quality.

49. India is set to significantly open its automobile market under a proposed free trade agreement with the European Union, marking a major shift in its long-protected trade policy. As part of the deal, India will reduce import duties on select European passenger cars from as high as 110% to 40%, signalling a breakthrough in the long-stalled India-EU free trade negotiations.

50. Israel has agreed to a limited reopening of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, allowing only pedestrian movement under strict conditions. The decision comes as part of a fragile truce framework and follows intense diplomatic engagement, amid mounting international pressure to ease humanitarian access to the war-ravaged Palestinian territory.

51. European Union member states have given final approval to a landmark law banning imports of Russian gas, making legally binding the bloc's pledge to sever energy ties with Moscow. The decision marks a major geopolitical and economic shift, nearly four years after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

52. India's Unified Payments Interface is poised to make its debut in Japan, marking a significant step in the global expansion of the country's flagship digital payments platform. The move reflects growing international interest in India's real-time payment infrastructure and its rising role in shaping cross-border digital finance.

53. Pakistan has suffered an unexpected strategic and economic setback after the "United Arab Emirates" withdrew from plans to operate Islamabad International Airport. The decision comes amid rapidly shifting regional alignments and shortly after a high-profile India visit by UAE President "Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan", fuelling speculation over wider geopolitical implications.

54. International Customs Day (ICD) is observed every year on 26^th January to acknowledge the critical role played by customs administrations in facilitating international trade, securing national borders, and preventing the illegal movement of goods. The observance underlines how customs authorities balance trade facilitation with enforcement, revenue collection, and national security.

55. Excavations at Lakkundi village in Karnataka's Gadag district have yielded relics dating back to the Neolithic period, significantly strengthening efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the historic settlement. The findings underline Lakkundi's deep antiquity and layered cultural history, extending far beyond its well-known medieval temples.

56. China has begun operations at the world's largest compressed-air energy storage (CAES) power plant in Jiangsu province, marking a significant milestone in the country's green energy transition. The project strengthens China's ability to balance rising renewable power generation with stable electricity supply.

57. The United States has sharply escalated trade tensions with South Korea after President Donald Trump announced a steep increase in tariffs on Korean imports. The move comes amid accusations that Seoul has failed to honour key commitments under a bilateral trade deal concluded last year.

58. France has taken a decisive legislative step to curb children's exposure to social media, with lawmakers approving a bill that would prohibit access to online social networking platforms for users under the age of 15. The move reflects growing political and public concern over screen addiction, mental health, and the influence of digital algorithms on minors.

59. Israel has signalled a new phase in its Gaza policy after the recovery of the last hostage held in the Palestinian territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel's priority would now be the complete disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarisation of Gaza, while reiterating opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state in the enclave.

60. The U.S. dollar fell to its lowest level in four years on Tuesday (27^th January) after comments by President Donald Trump were interpreted by markets as tacit approval of a weaker currency. The decline reflects growing investor unease over trade tensions, political uncertainty, and questions surrounding U.S. monetary policy independence.

61. Bangladesh has taken a significant step towards strengthening its indigenous defence manufacturing base by signing an agreement with China to establish a facility for the production and assembly of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The move underscores Dhaka's focus on technology transfer, capacity-building, and long-term self-reliance in aerial surveillance and defence platforms.

62. International Data Privacy Day, observed annually on 28^th January, underscores the growing importance of protecting personal data in an increasingly digital world. Also known as Data Protection Day, it commemorates the signing of Convention 108 in 2006 by the Council of Europe, the world's first legally binding international treaty on data protection.

63. The QS World University Rankings Europe 2026 have been released, offering a comprehensive snapshot of Europe's leading higher education institutions. Compiled by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the rankings are designed to guide students planning to pursue higher studies across the continent. This year's list reflects notable shifts at the top, underlining Europe's competitive and evolving academic landscape.

64. Canada has set an ambitious goal to double its bilateral trade with India from $30 billion to $60 billion by the end of the decade, signalling a renewed strategic push in economic engagement. The target comes as Ottawa prepares for a high-level visit to New Delhi and reflects a broader recalibration of ties amid global economic uncertainty and shifting supply chains.

65. The European Union has formally designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, marking a sharp escalation in its policy towards Tehran. The move aligns the IRGC with groups such as Islamic State and al Qaeda, reflecting mounting European concerns over human rights violations, regional destabilisation, and security threats linked to Iran's elite force.

66. India and the European Union have agreed to deepen cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and expand collaboration in advanced research and innovation. The commitment was outlined in the Joint India-European Union Comprehensive Strategic Agenda released after their summit on 27^th January 2026, reflecting a renewed focus on science-led strategic engagement.

67. China has unveiled ambitious plans to deploy space-based artificial intelligence data centres over the next five years, signalling a new phase in strategic competition in orbit. The initiative, announced through state media, positions Beijing as a direct challenger to US-based efforts to shift energy-intensive AI computing beyond Earth amid rising terrestrial power constraints.

68. The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art in the United States has announced the return of three ancient bronze sculptures to India following a detailed provenance investigation. The decision reflects growing international emphasis on ethical museum practices and the restitution of cultural heritage acquired through illicit means.

69. Taiwan has successfully completed the first underwater sea trial of its domestically developed submarine, marking a major milestone in its efforts to strengthen maritime deterrence against China. The trial represents a significant step in Taiwan's broader military modernisation programme amid rising regional tensions and sustained Chinese naval activity around the island.

70. Pakistan and Bangladesh have resumed direct air connectivity after a 14-year gap, signalling a cautious but notable improvement in bilateral relations. The restart came on 29^th January with the inaugural Dhaka–Karachi flight operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, ending a suspension that had been in place since 2012.

71. India is set to host the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers' Meeting (IAFMM) on 31^st January, 2026, marking the revival of a key diplomatic platform after a gap of nearly ten years. The meeting will be co-chaired by India and the United Arab Emirates, with participation from all 22 Arab countries and representatives of the Arab League.

72. A two-year-old boy from Manchester has entered the record books after achieving two rare milestones in cue sports, an age group where holding the cue itself is a challenge. Jude Owens has been officially recognised for setting two Guinness World Records, highlighting an extraordinary display of coordination and skill at an age usually associated with toy bats and plastic balls.

73. Kyrgyzstan has imposed a ban on the import of animals and animal products from India amid concerns over the spread of the Nipah virus. The Central Asian nation has also tightened health screening for international passengers, signalling heightened vigilance as India reports fresh cases of the zoonotic infection.

74. The United States space agency has revised the launch timeline of its Artemis II mission after an unusual Arctic cold wave disrupted key pre-launch preparations in Florida. The delay affects the first crewed lunar mission under the Artemis programme, pushing the earliest possible liftoff further into February.

75. The United States has cleared a major arms sale to Israel, approving the transfer of 30 Apache attack helicopters and related military equipment worth nearly $3.8 billion. The decision comes amid a fragile ceasefire in Gaza and reflects Washington's continued strategic and military backing of its key Middle East ally.

Defence

1. The Albert Ekka Brigade, a distinguished formation of the Indian Army, observed its 56^th Raising Day at the Agartala Military Station with solemn ceremonies and military traditions. The event commemorated the brigade's historic role, bravery, and unwavering service to the nation, particularly during the 1971 India-Pakistan War from the Tripura sector.

2. The Ministry of Defence has signed defence procurement contracts worth Rs. 4,666 crore, reinforcing India's drive towards modernisation and operational readiness. The agreements cover the induction of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines for frontline troops and Heavyweight Torpedoes for submarines, reflecting a dual focus on land and maritime combat capabilities.

3. The Indian Army on 10^th January conducted Exercise "Sanjha Shakti", a joint Military-Civil Fusion exercise, at the Dighi Hills Range. The exercise was organised under the aegis of the Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa Area of the Southern Command, with the objective of strengthening coordination between the armed forces and civilian agencies in responding to complex security challenges and emergency situations.

4. Mumbai today witnessed the fifth edition of the Tri-Services Veterans Day parade at Marine Drive, reaffirming the city's unique role in honouring India's military veterans. The event was organised ahead of Veterans Day, which is observed annually on 14^th January, and drew wide participation from the armed forces community.

5. India's first space mission of 2026 began with a successful lift-off but soon ran into a technical challenge. The PSLV-C62 mission, launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation, encountered a disturbance near the end of its third stage, prompting engineers to begin a detailed analysis of flight data.

6. India has achieved another milestone in indigenous defence capability with the successful flight test of a third-generation Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM). The trial, conducted against a moving target, reinforces India's push towards self-reliance in advanced battlefield weapon systems and strengthens the Indian Army's future anti-armour capabilities.

7. The Indian Army has launched a new pan-Army digital platform aimed at modernising and streamlining its logistics ecosystem. The platform, named Depot Integration Management Edition (DIME), is designed to compress logistics cycles, significantly reduce paperwork and provide near real-time visibility of assets across the force.

8. India has taken a significant step in unmanned defence capability as the Indian Army signed a Rs. 168 crore contract for a solar-powered surveillance drone system designed for long-endurance missions. The induction marks the first time the Army is bringing a solar-powered unmanned aerial platform into active service, enhancing persistent border surveillance.

9. In a rare outcome following a launch failure, a small foreign satellite managed to survive long enough to transmit data after the malfunction of India's PSLV-C62 mission. While most payloads were lost due to a third-stage anomaly, a football-sized Spanish capsule defied expectations by separating from the rocket and communicating with Earth for a short duration.

10. The 16^th meeting of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus Experts Working Group on Counter Terrorism and the Final Planning Conference for the Table Top Exercise will be held in New Delhi from 14^th to 16^th January. The meeting marks a key milestone in India's expanding multilateral defence engagement within the ASEAN-led security architecture.

11. India marked the 10^th Defence Forces Veterans Day on 14^th January 2026, with nationwide events honouring the service, sacrifice and continued contribution of ex-servicemen. Rallies, wreath-laying ceremonies, grievance redressal counters and facilitation help desks were organised across States and Union Territories, reflecting the country's institutional and social commitment towards veterans.

12. Swedish aerospace and defence major "Saab" has showcased the advanced strike capabilities of its RBS-15 missile system, demonstrating its potential to neutralise key components of sophisticated air defence networks, including elements resembling the Russian S-400 system.

13. India observes Army Day every year on 15^th January to commemorate the appointment of Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949. On the eve of the occasion, attention has turned to the missile systems that form the backbone of India's military deterrence, reflecting decades of indigenous development and strategic planning.

14. Lieutenant K. M. Sudha has created history by becoming the first individual from India's Northeast to secure a gold medal at a prestigious National Cadet Corps officers' training event. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the region's representation in national-level defence training and leadership programmes.

15. The Indian Coast Guard and the Japan Coast Guard conducted a joint Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) response drill in Mumbai, reinforcing their maritime partnership and shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The engagement highlighted growing operational cooperation and interoperability between the two coast guards.

16. India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives concluded the 17^th edition of the trilateral Coast Guard exercise DOSTI on 19^th January 2026, reinforcing regional maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. Hosted by the Maldives, the exercise was formally inaugurated on 17^th January at Hotel Jen in Male.

17. The 77^th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path marked a decisive shift in the Indian Army's operational messaging, with the first public appearance of new combat formations and indigenous weapon systems. The parade reflected India's evolving military doctrine, emphasising agility, indigenous firepower, and battlefield realism over ceremonial tradition.

18. Security forces have intensified counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district as searches continued amid heavy snowfall following a fresh exchange of fire with terrorists. Operation Trashi-I, launched earlier this month, has entered a critical phase as troops attempt to eliminate remaining militants hiding in dense forest areas.

19. India and Indonesia reinforced their maritime partnership as the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron concluded a successful port call at Belawan, underscoring growing naval cooperation in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. The visit aligned with India's Act East Policy and the broader vision of MAHASAGAR, aimed at strengthening regional maritime security and engagement.

20. The Indian Army's Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) is set to create history at the Republic Day parade with a specially curated animal contingent and, for the first time in its 247-year legacy, a woman officer leading the march. The moment highlights the Corps' enduring operational relevance and evolving identity within the armed forces.

21. Captain Hansja Sharma has scripted a historic first by becoming the Indian Army's first woman officer qualified to fly the Rudra Armed Helicopter. Her achievement marks a major milestone for Army Aviation and reflects the steady expansion of women's roles in frontline combat and high-risk operational domains. At just 27, her qualification signals a shift where operational capability, rather than gender, defines combat leadership in the armed forces.

22. India's rapidly expanding civil aviation sector will take centre stage at Wings India 2026, Asia's largest civil aviation event, scheduled from 28^th to 31^st January 2026, at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad. The four-day mega event will be formally launched by Union Minister of Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu.

23. The Bihar Regiment Centre (BRC) observed the 64^th Raising Day of the 5^th Battalion at Danapur cantonment, Patna, on Wednesday with full military traditions and tributes to fallen soldiers. The commemoration highlighted the battalion's legacy of disciplined service, operational professionalism and continued contribution to national security across diverse theatres and missions.

24. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) organised the second edition of the Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon 2026 on 28^th January, marking a major national outreach initiative focused on coastal security and patriotism. The 25-day cyclothon was virtually flagged off from New Delhi by Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai.

25. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday attended the Beating Retreat ceremony, formally bringing India's Republic Day celebrations to an end. Held annually on 29^th January in the national capital, the ceremony is a solemn tribute to the discipline, heritage and service of the armed forces.

26. Bengaluru-based defence manufacturer has completed a major upgrade of the Indian Air Force's Pechora surface-to-air missile system, marking a significant step in India's push to modernise ageing military platforms through indigenous capability. The fully digitised upgrade is expected to enhance the operational effectiveness of the and strengthen the country's layered air defence architecture.

Business, Economy & Banking

1. The Ministry of Textiles has unveiled the District-Led Textiles Transformation (DLTT) initiative, marking a strategic shift in India's textile development approach. Announced at the National Textile Ministers Conference held in Guwahati, the initiative aims to catalyse inclusive and sustainable growth by focusing on district-level strengths and challenges across the country.

2. The Reserve Bank of India has issued the Foreign Exchange Management (Guarantees) Regulations, 2026, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for guarantees involving persons resident outside India. The move is aimed at streamlining processes, enhancing transparency and strengthening regulatory oversight in cross-border guarantee transactions.

3. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on 13^th January, launched the official website and logo for India's BRICS Presidency 2026, outlining New Delhi's vision for its upcoming chairship. He said India would focus on harnessing the collective strengths of BRICS nations to promote greater global welfare at a time of rising international uncertainties.

4. The World Bank has revised India's economic growth outlook upward, projecting GDP growth at 7.2% for the current fiscal year 2025-26. The revised estimate reflects strong domestic demand, supportive tax reforms, and resilient export performance despite global trade uncertainties. The projection was released in the World Bank's flagship global assessment.

5. Tripura Gramin Bank has set a national benchmark in rural banking by becoming the first Gramin Bank in India to introduce a solar-powered ATM van. The initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven financial services, particularly for remote and underserved regions of the country.

6. The National Conference on Strategic Trade Controls (NCSTC) 2026 was organised in New Delhi by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations and other government and industry stakeholders. The conference served as a key platform to deliberate on India's Strategic Trade Control framework amid evolving global technology and security dynamics.

7. In a major step towards strengthening economic independence and digital inclusion for women, the "Department of Women and Child Development, Karnataka" has launched "Gruha Lakshmi Digital Marketing", a dedicated online portal to promote products made by women entrepreneurs across the state. The initiative aims to connect women-led enterprises with national and global markets through a state-supported digital platform.

8. The "International Monetary Fund" (IMF) has upgraded India's economic growth forecast for 2025 to 7.3%, underscoring the country's resilience amid global trade disruptions and tariff-related uncertainties. The revision reflects stronger-than-expected domestic performance and sustained economic momentum, even as protectionist pressures continue to weigh on the global outlook.

9. India is on course to become an upper middle income country by the end of this decade, with per capita income rising steadily and overall economic size expanding rapidly. An analysis by "State Bank of India" indicates that India's gross national income (GNI) per capita is likely to reach $4,000 by 2030, placing it alongside countries such as China and Indonesia under the "World Bank" income classification.

10. India emerged as the world's second most optimistic consumer market in January 2026, reflecting strong confidence in economic prospects and employment conditions. The latest LSEG-Ipsos Primary Consumer Sentiment Index (PCSI) placed India just behind Indonesia, underscoring resilient domestic demand and a positive growth outlook at the start of the year.

11. The Reserve Bank of India has approved the continuation of senior leadership at HDFC Bank, reinforcing stability at India's largest private sector lender. The approval covers the re-appointment of Kaizad Bharucha as a whole-time director on the bank's board for a fresh three-year term beginning 19^th April 2026.

12. India has agreed to allow European Union banks to open up to 15 branches over a four-year period under the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The move marks a calibrated opening of India's financial services sector while retaining safeguards for domestic stability and national interests, according to the commerce ministry.

13. The Economic Survey 2025-26 has highlighted a structural transformation underway in India's pharmaceutical and medical devices industries, with a clear shift from volume-led growth to value-driven expansion. The Survey underscores increasing emphasis on innovation, complex products, and advanced manufacturing as India seeks to move up the global healthcare value chain.

Science & Technology

1. Indian scientists have achieved a technological milestone by developing indigenously manufactured Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) using 3D-printing technology. The first batch of these next-generation stations will be deployed in Delhi from February 2026, marking a major step towards strengthening India's weather observation and forecasting network.

2. India has marked a major milestone in public healthcare with the inauguration of its first government hospital-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) clinic at the Government Institute of Medical Sciences. The initiative signals a shift towards technology-driven healthcare delivery in the government sector, aimed at improving clinical outcomes, efficiency, and patient safety.

3. Indian herpetology has recorded a significant addition with the discovery of two new frog species from the eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot. The findings highlight the ecological richness of Arunachal Pradesh and underscore the importance of sustained scientific exploration in remote mountain ecosystems.

4. IndiaAI and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, in collaboration with the Government of Uttar Pradesh, will host the Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026 in Lucknow on 12^th - 13^th January, 2026. The conference aims to showcase advanced applications of artificial intelligence in governance and public service delivery, while aligning state-level initiatives with the broader objectives of the IndiaAI Mission.

5. India is moving closer to achieving a critical space technology milestone as a private satellite, launched aboard an upcoming mission, aims to validate in-orbit fuel transfer under real space conditions. If successful, the experiment would place India on the cusp of becoming only the second country globally to demonstrate on-orbit satellite refuelling.

6. Scientists are exploring a novel biological approach to overcome one of the biggest challenges of human exploration on Mars: building safe and sustainable habitats. Recent research suggests that certain hardy Earth microbes could help convert Martian soil into construction material while also supporting oxygen production, reducing dependence on costly supplies transported from Earth.

7. Google has unveiled the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a new open standard aimed at reshaping digital commerce in the age of artificial intelligence. The initiative is designed to help retailers connect more effectively with consumers who increasingly rely on AI tools for product discovery, comparison, and purchasing decisions.

8. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research to deepen collaboration in research, science communication, and science-and-technology policy initiatives. The agreement was formalised during a two-day national workshop convened by NITI Aayog, reflecting a growing emphasis on embedding research and development within state institutions.

9. India is likely to become a full member of the United States-led strategic initiative Pax Silica as early as next month. The development was indicated by the US Ambassador to India during his visit to New Delhi and signals a significant step in deepening India-US cooperation in advanced technologies, supply chain resilience, and the emerging artificial intelligence-driven global economy.

10. India has marked a major milestone in advanced robotics with the unveiling of SCORP, the country's first legged mobile manipulator, developed by deep-tech startup xTerra Robotics. Incubated at IIT Kanpur, SCORP showcases India's growing capability to design sophisticated robotic systems for complex, unstructured environments, positioning the country among global leaders in specialised robotics.

11. The Digital India BHASHINI Division under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology will organise "BHASHINI Samudaye: Strengthening India's Language AI Ecosystem" on 13^th January at Nalanda Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. The workshop aims to deepen collaboration among stakeholders working on multilingual artificial intelligence in India.

12. Astronomers have observed a rare and puzzling phenomenon involving a highly magnetised white dwarf that is generating a vivid, multicoloured shockwave as it travels through space. The discovery, made using advanced ground-based telescopes, has left scientists searching for an explanation, as the system does not behave like similar objects studied previously.

13. The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) celebrated its 5^th Foundation Day, highlighting its growing role in science communication, policy research and validation of traditional knowledge. The event reflected the institute's focus on leveraging artificial intelligence, regional language outreach and global engagement to strengthen India's science-policy ecosystem.

14. Scientists have uncovered a remarkable prehistoric boat beneath Lake Mendota in the United States, offering new insights into ancient human life in North America. The discovery highlights sophisticated woodworking knowledge and long-term habitation in the Great Lakes region thousands of years ago, predating several major early civilisations elsewhere in the world.

15. Marine scientists have discovered an exceptionally large and ancient black coral in the deep waters off New Zealand, offering rare insights into long-lived deep-sea ecosystems. The finding highlights both the richness of marine biodiversity and the urgent need for conservation of fragile ocean habitats.

16. Google has introduced TranslateGemma, a new family of open-source translation models designed to deliver high-quality multilingual translation across a wide range of devices. Supporting 55 languages, the models mark a significant step towards accessible, local, and efficient AI-powered translation without heavy reliance on cloud infrastructure.

17. India has emerged as the world's second-largest 5G subscriber base, trailing only China, marking a major milestone in the country's digital transformation journey. Union Minister of Communications "Jyotiraditya Scindia" announced that India has crossed over 400 million 5G users, placing it among the fastest adopters of next-generation telecom technology worldwide.

18. Scientists have developed a breakthrough method to produce tagatose, a rare natural sugar that offers the taste of regular sugar without causing sharp spikes in insulin levels. The development could pave the way for healthier sweetening options and reduce dependence on artificial sweeteners.

19. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research is implementing the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative, a flagship national programme designed to strengthen India's skilled workforce by bridging the gap between scientific research, industry requirements and employable skills. Aligned with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Skill India, the initiative integrates skill development with science and technology by leveraging CSIR's vast research infrastructure and nationwide laboratory network.

20. A striking phytoplankton bloom has drawn global scientific attention to the remote Chatham Islands, located about 800 kilometres east of New Zealand's South Island. In January 2026, vivid green and blue swirls appeared in surrounding waters, forming a natural halo visible from space and highlighting the region's unique oceanographic conditions.

21. Indian scientists have discovered a rare subterranean amphibian species in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra, adding a significant finding to India's biodiversity record. The species, named "Gegeneophis valmiki", was identified by a multi-institutional research team led by the Zoological Survey of India and the findings have been published in the international journal "Phyllomedusa".

22. Researchers at the National Centre for Biological Sciences, under the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bengaluru, have developed a deep-learning tool that can predict how intrinsically disordered proteins bind to their partners. The breakthrough addresses a long-standing challenge in molecular biology and opens new possibilities in disease research and drug discovery.

23. Scientists have identified a tiny crustacean from the Kavaratti lagoon in Lakshadweep as a completely new genus and species, underscoring the rich but underexplored marine biodiversity of India's island ecosystems. The microscopic organism belongs to the family Laophontidae under the Copepoda class and can only be studied using high-powered microscopes due to its minute size.

24. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh has recommended accelerated adoption of steel slag-based technology for sustainable road construction, particularly in hilly and Himalayan regions. He noted that despite proven benefits, the technology's uptake in Himalayan states and Union Territories remains limited and requires targeted outreach, training and awareness-building among state agencies.

25. Microsoft has unveiled the second generation of its in-house artificial intelligence chip, Maia 200, alongside a new software stack aimed at reducing developers' dependence on Nvidia's ecosystem. The move underscores intensifying competition among major cloud providers as they seek greater control over AI infrastructure and costs.

26. Scientists have unveiled the most detailed map ever created of dark matter, offering an unprecedented view of the invisible framework that shapes the universe. Using observations from the James Webb Space Telescope, the new map provides deeper and sharper insight into how galaxies formed and evolved during a critical phase of cosmic history.

27. As Earth's orbit becomes increasingly crowded with satellites, scientists are developing new tools to manage the growing risk from falling space debris. A recent study shows that earthquake monitoring systems can be repurposed to track uncontrolled objects reentering Earth's atmosphere by detecting the sonic booms they generate, potentially improving safety and debris recovery efforts.

28. Scientists at Rice University have developed a new filtration material that could significantly accelerate the removal of PFAS, widely known as "forever chemicals," from contaminated water. The technology may absorb certain PFAS compounds up to 100 times faster than existing methods, offering a potential boost to pollution control and environmental remediation efforts.

29. A new flowering plant species has been formally documented from Arunachal Pradesh, reinforcing the Himalayan state's status as one of India's richest biodiversity regions. The discovery highlights the continuing importance of systematic botanical exploration in remote and ecologically sensitive landscapes that remain under-studied.

30. NASA is moving into the final stages of preparation for its Artemis II mission, which aims to send humans around the Moon as early as 6^th February 2026. The mission marks a major milestone in the United States' return to crewed lunar exploration after a gap of more than five decades.

31. Researchers from IIT Guwahati have developed a predictive framework that identifies hundreds of locations in the Eastern Himalayas where new glacial lakes are likely to form. The study offers critical insights for disaster-risk reduction, infrastructure planning, and long-term water-resource management in high-mountain regions vulnerable to climate change.

32. India is edging closer to a new milestone in human spaceflight as a Bengaluru-based startup prepares to launch the country's first inflatable space habitat. Akashlabdhi, incubated at the Indian Institute of Science, has completed critical safety and validation tests in Switzerland, paving the way for an in-orbit demonstration of its habitat technology later this year.

33. NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has delivered a striking new image of the distant Universe, revealing a massive galaxy cluster that bends light and warps space itself. The observation showcases MACS J1149.5+2223, a colossal cluster located around five billion light-years away in the constellation Leo, offering a vivid demonstration of one of astrophysics' most powerful phenomena.

34. Atomic scientists have moved the Doomsday Clock closer to midnight than at any point in history, warning that humanity faces an unprecedented convergence of nuclear, technological and geopolitical risks. The symbolic clock now stands at 85 seconds to midnight, underscoring what experts describe as a global failure of leadership and restraint.

35. Researchers from Nagaland University have recorded a new plant species in the high-altitude forests of Nagaland, reinforcing the northeastern region's status as a biodiversity hotspot. The discovery also highlights the critical role played by community-protected forests in conserving rare and undocumented flora.

36. Google DeepMind has unveiled a new artificial intelligence system, AlphaGenome, designed to help scientists better understand DNA mutations and their biological impact. The announcement was made on 28^th January 2026, alongside the publication of the research in the scientific journal Nature. Researchers say the tool could significantly advance genomic science and disease research.

37. Karnataka has emerged as the undisputed hub of India's generative artificial intelligence revolution, hosting 39% of the country's GenAI startups, according to the Economic Survey 2025-26. The milestone reflects the state's deepening role in India's fast-expanding technology startup ecosystem, now ranked the third-largest globally.

38. Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have identified the most distant galaxy ever observed, named MoM-z14. The discovery pushes the observational frontier to just 280 million years after the Big Bang, offering a rare glimpse into the universe's earliest phase of galaxy formation.

39. The deuteron, the nucleus of deuterium, is one of the simplest bound nuclear systems, consisting of just one proton and one neutron. Despite its very low binding energy, experiments at the Large Hadron Collider have repeatedly observed deuterons and anti-deuterons emerging intact from extremely energetic particle collisions.

40. Researchers have documented a rare species of jumping spider in Assam, marking its first recorded presence in India and adding a significant entry to the country's biodiversity records. The discovery highlights the ecological richness of southern Assam and underlines the scientific importance of its forest ecosystems.

41. The Sun's 11-year magnetic activity cycle governs solar flares and space weather that can disrupt satellites, navigation systems, and power grids on Earth. Predicting the timing and strength of these cycles has long challenged scientists because the Sun's deep internal magnetic fields cannot be directly observed. A new study offers a data-driven way to overcome this limitation.

42. India has taken a major step towards integrating artificial intelligence into higher education with the launch of its first AI-enabled university pilot. The initiative, announced on 28^th January, aims to transform learning, teaching, and campus administration using advanced AI tools, starting with a pilot at Chaudhary Charan Singh University in Meerut.

Government Schemes

1. The government has notified 1^st February as the date from which new fiscal levies on tobacco products and pan masala will come into force. These changes mark a shift in the taxation structure of so-called sin goods, replacing the existing compensation cess regime with product-specific levies outside the Goods and Services Tax framework.

2. The "Tamil Nadu government" has granted permission for the first Jallikattu event of 2026 to be held on 3^rd January at Thatchankurichi village in Pudukkottai district. The approval formally signals the beginning of the annual bull-taming season in the state, which holds deep cultural and traditional significance.

3. The Centre has released a draft of new Social Security Code rules that could significantly reshape welfare coverage for gig and platform workers across India. Issued under the Labour Codes framework for public consultation, the proposal lays down minimum engagement thresholds and compliance obligations that will directly impact workers associated with food delivery, quick commerce and ride-hailing platforms.

4. The Centre has approved the third phase of the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) with an outlay of Rs. 41,863 crore, reinforcing India's push to deepen domestic electronics manufacturing. The decision marks another step towards reducing import dependence and building a resilient component ecosystem aligned with the country's industrial and export goals.

5. The Government of Tamil Nadu has revised the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Rules to strengthen the utilisation of funds for communities and regions affected by mining activities. The newly notified Tamil Nadu District Mineral Foundation Rules, 2025, replace the earlier rules framed in 2017, signalling a shift in regulatory approach and compliance mechanisms.

6. The Assam government has announced a dedicated welfare initiative for 'Udasin Bhakats', celibate monks residing in the state's historic satras. The scheme, unveiled by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, seeks to provide direct financial assistance to monks who have devoted their lives to preserving Assam's Vaishnavite spiritual and cultural traditions.

7. The Kerala government has officially renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in the State. The decision reflects Kerala's growing emphasis on species-specific conservation and recognises Aralam's unique ecological significance as a major butterfly habitat.

8. The Delhi government has strengthened its primary healthcare infrastructure with the launch of 81 new Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, marking a significant expansion of accessible public health services across the national capital. The inauguration coincided with Makar Sankranti and reflects the administration's stated objective of universal, neighbourhood-level healthcare delivery.

9. The Gujarat government has intensified wildlife protection measures ahead of the Uttarayan festival, as thousands of kites are set to fill the skies across the state. With injuries to birds and animals a recurring concern during the celebrations, the administration has rolled out extensive emergency arrangements under the Karuna Abhiyan initiative to mitigate harm caused by sharp kite strings.

10. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission has taken a major step towards transforming rural incomes with the launch of a National Campaign on Entrepreneurship. The initiative seeks to scale up non-farm livelihood opportunities for rural women and accelerate progress towards the government's target of creating three crore Lakhpati Didis across the country.

11. The Uttar Pradesh government has approved six new North-South road corridors to address long-standing connectivity gaps across the state. The initiative aims to connect more than 24 districts, cut travel time between northern and southern regions, and support balanced regional development.

12. The Karnataka government has amended its land revenue law to modernise the unique and long-standing system of land records in the Coorg region, officially known as Kodagu district. The reform seeks to resolve decades-old documentation issues affecting Jamma Bane land holdings, which are central to the heritage and livelihoods of the indigenous Kodava community.

13. The Tamil Nadu government has signed a landmark agreement with "Sarvam AI" to establish India's first full-stack Sovereign Artificial Intelligence Park. With an initial investment of Rs. 10,000 crore, the project marks one of the country's most ambitious state-led initiatives in AI infrastructure, aimed at building trusted, domestically governed artificial intelligence systems.

14. The Odisha government on 13^th January, launched a five-year education scheme, 'Aame Padhiba Aama Bhasare', along with a 100-day campaign to prevent child marriage and a pilot project to prevent teenage pregnancy and support teenage mothers. The initiatives underline the state's focus on women empowerment and child welfare as core pillars of inclusive development.

15. The Tamil Nadu government has announced a new annual state-sponsored literary honour aimed at recognising outstanding works in major Indian languages other than Hindi. The initiative was unveiled by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin at the valedictory ceremony of the Chennai International Book Fair, marking a significant policy intervention in the field of Indian literature.

16. India has marked a key milestone in clean energy safety with the country's first comprehensive safety assessment of a hydrogen compressor-dispenser system. The assessment was conducted by the Dhanbad-based CSIR-CIMFR, reinforcing India's preparedness for scaling up hydrogen infrastructure under the National Hydrogen Mission.

17. Odisha took a major step in its industrial journey with the inauguration of India's first flat rolled products (FRP) aluminium unit in western Odisha, signalling the state's growing role in advanced manufacturing and downstream industries. The projects are expected to strengthen aluminium value chains, attract global attention, and generate large-scale employment.

18. Madhya Pradesh will observe 2026 as the 'year of agriculture', Governor Mangu Bhai Patel announced while addressing the State-level function marking the 77^th Republic Day in Bhopal. The declaration underscores the State government's focus on strengthening agriculture and allied sectors as the backbone of the rural economy.

19. NITI Aayog on 28^th January launched 'Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0', a three-month nationwide campaign aimed at achieving saturation of key development indicators in Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks. The campaign will run from 28^th January to 14^th April 2026, and builds on the outcomes of the first Sampoornata Abhiyan conducted in 2024.

20. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on 28^th January launched the Mukhya Mantrir Eti Koli Duti Paat Scheme at Doomdooma in Tinsukia district, marking a major welfare initiative for tea garden workers. The scheme aims to recognise the contribution of tea tribes and indigenous communities and provide direct financial support across the state.

21. The Karnataka government has announced plans to establish a regulatory sandbox framework under the Karnataka Innovation Act to support responsible development of emerging technologies. The proposal comes amid rapid digital expansion in India, driven largely by rural internet adoption and increasing use of artificial intelligence-enabled services.

22. Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has announced that the state government will begin procuring ginger and dry broomsticks directly from farmers from 2^nd February under its flagship Bana Kaih handholding initiative. The announcement was made during the inauguration of a ginger processing unit at Sairang, located about 21 kilometres from Aizawl, marking another step towards strengthening farm-led growth in the state.

23. Gujarat has launched a major rural development drive aimed at providing urban-level facilities in villages, signalling a strategic push towards balanced and inclusive growth. The initiative seeks to narrow the rural-urban divide by upgrading infrastructure and public services in key rural centres across the state.

Awards & Honours

1. The Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) has conferred the IFFCO Sahitya Samman 2025 on eminent Hindi writer Maitreyi Pushpa for her outstanding contribution to Hindi literature, especially her nuanced portrayal of rural society and agrarian realities. The award ceremony was held in the national capital, highlighting IFFCO's continued engagement with literature rooted in India's villages.

2. The 2026 British Academy Film Awards longlist has placed "One Battle After Another" at the forefront, with the film securing an impressive 16 mentions across major categories. Headlined by "Leonardo DiCaprio", the politically charged thriller has emerged as the most recognised title in this year's preliminary race, setting the tone for a fiercely competitive awards season.

3. Indian-origin mathematician Nalini Joshi has been named New South Wales Scientist of the Year, becoming the first mathematician to receive the state's highest science honour. The award recognises her pioneering contributions to applied mathematics and underscores the growing relevance of mathematical sciences in solving complex technological and societal challenges.

4. The Norwegian Nobel Committee has clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be shared, transferred, or revoked, responding to remarks by Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado that she wished to dedicate her award to former US President Donald Trump. The statement has put to rest speculation surrounding the legal status of the prize and reaffirmed the permanence of Nobel decisions.

5. National Youth Day (Yuva Diwas) 2026 will be observed across India on 12^th January, reaffirming the belief that a nation's future rests on the direction, character, and purpose of its youth. The day is marked not merely as a celebration but as a moment of national reflection on the values guiding young Indians and the responsibilities they carry in shaping the country's destiny.

6. An Indian Army officer serving with a United Nations mission in Africa has received global recognition for advancing gender-inclusive peacekeeping. Major Swathi Shantha Kumar has been awarded the UN Secretary-General's Award 2025 for her leadership and field-level impact in promoting gender parity and community engagement in conflict-affected regions.

7. Ueli Kestenholz, the Swiss snowboarder who won an Olympic bronze medal during snowboarding's debut at the Winter Games, has died after being caught in an avalanche in the Swiss Alps. Swiss-Ski confirmed his death on 13^th January, following the accident in canton Valais. He was 50.

8. Beneath forests, grasslands and farmlands lies a vast, largely unseen system that helps regulate Earth's climate. American evolutionary biologist Toby Kiers has been awarded the prestigious Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement for transforming scientific understanding of these underground fungal networks and their role in sustaining life on the planet.

9. Karnataka Bank has emerged as a key winner at the Indian Banks Association Banking Technology Awards, underlining its growing focus on digital transformation and technology-led banking. The bank secured the top honour in the 'Best Fintech & DPI Adoption' category, reflecting its progress in leveraging digital public infrastructure and fintech-driven solutions.

10. Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director of Indian Institute of Management Rohtak, has been conferred the Exemplary Governance Leadership Award at the 46^th World Management Congress held in New Delhi. The recognition highlights institutional progress achieved through structured governance, academic innovation, and financial discipline, positioning IIM Rohtak among Indian management institutes noted for steady strategic growth.

11. Veteran music composer "Ilaiyaraaja" has been selected for the prestigious Padmapani Award at the 11^th Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival, recognising his unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema. The honour underlines his enduring influence across multiple film industries and generations of filmmakers and audiences.

12. Renowned neonatologist Dr. Armida Fernandez, who established Asia's first human milk bank, has been selected for the Padma Shri 2026 in the field of medicine. The award was announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs on the eve of Republic Day. Though based in Mumbai, the honour has been widely celebrated in Goa, where she traces her family roots.

13. Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award, recognising his immense contribution to Indian cinema. The announcement, made ahead of Republic Day 2026, triggered widespread appreciation across the film fraternity and beyond.

14. Veteran Bengali actor Prosenjit Chatterjee has dedicated his Padma Shri honour to his late mother, acknowledging her lifelong sacrifices and guidance. The actor was named among the 113 recipients of the prestigious civilian award, as announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

15. India's Padma Awards this year have spotlighted grassroots environmental conservation, with a 92-year-old green activist from Kerala emerging as one of the prominent unsung heroes. The honours recognise decades of sustained ecological work carried out far from public glare, reflecting the government's emphasis on community-led environmental protection.

16. Shashi Shekhar Vempati is set to receive the Padma Shri, recognising a career that bridges technology, public broadcasting, and institution-building. An alumnus of IIT Bombay, Vempati's work spans leadership roles in national media, education governance, and emerging technology policy, positioning him among notable public servants shaping India's knowledge and communication ecosystem.

17. A Class IX student from Ranipet has brought pride to Tamil Nadu by winning a gold medal at the 29^th All India National Martial Arts Championship 2026, held in Goa on 25^th January. The achievement highlights the growing prominence of traditional Indian martial arts among young athletes and showcases grassroots talent from smaller towns.

18. Indian women's hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia described her Padma Shri honour as a recognition of the entire national team rather than an individual achievement. The announcement came as a surprise for the veteran player, who called the award a moment of pride for her family and a morale boost for women's hockey after a challenging phase.

19. Actor and filmmaker "Sidharth Bharathan" won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor at the 55^th edition of the prestigious awards. The awards were presented by Kerala Chief Minister "Pinarayi Vijayan" on 25^th January 2026.

20. The Padma Awards 2026 have brought national recognition to four individuals from Madhya Pradesh whose work has largely unfolded away from public glare. Their journeys span literature, social service, archaeology, and indigenous martial arts, reflecting a form of nation-building rooted in perseverance rather than prominence.

21. Traditional martial arts practitioner K. Pajanivel of Puducherry has been conferred with the Padma Shri, recognising his lifelong contribution to the preservation and global promotion of Silambam, one of Tamil Nadu's oldest martial art traditions.

22. Lucknow has emerged as a focal point of national pride as two eminent medical professionals from the city have been conferred the Padma Shri in 2026. The awards recognise decades of dedicated service to medicine, spanning modern pulmonary care and traditional Ayurvedic surgery, and underline the contribution of individual excellence to India's public health landscape.

23. Veteran space scientist Dr. A. E. Muthunayagam has been awarded the Padma Shri in 2026 for his seminal contributions to Science and Engineering. Widely regarded as the architect of India's liquid rocket propulsion programme, his work laid the technological foundations for the country's most reliable launch vehicles and strengthened India's position as a major spacefaring nation.

24. The Manipuri coming-of-age film "Boong" has achieved a significant milestone for Indian regional cinema by earning a nomination at the "BAFTA Awards 2026". Backed by actor-producer "Farhan Akhtar", the film has been recognised in the Best Children's and Family Film category, marking rare global acknowledgement for a Manipuri-language production.

25. Fashion designer and former pop star Victoria Beckham has been honoured with one of France's most prestigious cultural distinctions, marking a defining moment in her creative career. She was conferred the title of Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters at an intimate ceremony in Paris, attended by her family, including husband David Beckham.

26. Indian public health expert Chandrakant Lahariya has been awarded the prestigious Wiley Research Heroes Prize 2025, becoming the first Indian to receive this international recognition. The award highlights his sustained contribution to health policy research and its real-world impact beyond academic circles.

27. Renowned radiation oncologist Dr. Nori Dattatreyudu has been awarded the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding contribution to the field of medicine. The honour was announced as part of the Padma Awards 2026 list released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, recognising decades of pioneering work that transformed cancer treatment and improved patient outcomes globally.

28. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is set to recognise young champions of grassroots democracy through a National Award Ceremony for the Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) initiative on 28^th January 2026 in New Delhi. The event reflects a growing emphasis on civic education and youth participation in India's democratic institutions.

29. Actor Dhanush has been honoured with the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in the critically acclaimed film Vada Chennai. The award, announced by the Tamil Nadu government, recognises his role in the 2018 release and has been described by the actor as a "true honour".

30. Uttarakhand has been conferred the national award for 'Best State for Promotion of Aviation and Ecosystem' at WINGS INDIA 2026, recognising its strategic use of aviation to improve connectivity, tourism, and public services in challenging mountainous terrain. The honour highlights the state's growing role in strengthening India's regional aviation landscape.

Sports

1. The 44^th Junior National Kho Kho Championship commenced at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Gunjur, Bengaluru, bringing together nearly 1,000 young athletes from states and union territories across India. The national-level event features boys' and girls' categories and marks a significant platform for nurturing grassroots talent in one of India's indigenous sports.

2. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday inaugurated the 47^th National Junior Boys Handball Championship at a government school in Pitampura, New Delhi. The national-level sporting event has brought together young handball players from across the country, reflecting the growing emphasis on grassroots sports development in the capital.

3. Jon Cooper further cemented his place in National Hockey League history after guiding the Tampa Bay Lightning to a comprehensive 5-1 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. The win marked Cooper's 600^th career coaching victory, achieved in his 1,005^th game behind the bench, underlining his exceptional consistency at the highest level.

4. The India Open Badminton tournament commenced on 13^th January at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, marking a major early highlight of the 2026 BWF World Tour. As a Super 750 event and the second tournament of the season, the competition has attracted several top-ranked international shuttlers, while offering Indian players a crucial opportunity to perform on home courts.

5. The Indian Olympic Association has unveiled two major institutional reforms aimed at strengthening India's Olympic ecosystem, with the launch of the National Olympic Education and Development Programme and the formal reactivation of the National Olympic Academy. The initiatives signal a renewed emphasis on athlete-centric development, Olympic values, and long-term capacity building within Indian sport.

6. Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal has confirmed her retirement from competitive badminton after a prolonged injury battle. The former World No.1 ends a historic career marked by Olympic bronze, global titles, and major national honours, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Indian sport.

7. India added another name to its growing chess legacy as 21-year-old Aaryan Varshney secured the Grandmaster title, becoming the country's 92^nd GM. The achievement came after he clinched his final GM norm at the Andranik Margaryan Memorial Tournament in Armenia, sealing the title with a round to spare. His journey stands out for its simplicity, discipline, and an extraordinary father-son partnership.

8. The Centre has intensified its crackdown on illegal online betting and gambling, reportedly blocking 242 website links on 16^th January 2026. Government sources said the action forms part of wider enforcement under the Online Gaming Act that took effect in October 2025, with thousands of unlawful platforms already taken down to curb financial fraud and social harm, especially among young users.

9. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta hosted the World Champion Indian Blind Women's T20 Cricket Team at Mukhyamantri Janseva Sadan, celebrating their historic international triumph. The event brought together players, coaches, and representatives of the Blind Association, highlighting resilience, inclusivity, and excellence in Indian sport.

10. Former India captain M. S. Dhoni has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the Pune Grand Tour 2026, marking a significant step in India's entry into the global professional cycling circuit. The five-day international road cycling race will be held in Pune from 19^th to 23^rd January, positioning the city and the country prominently on the world cycling map.

11. Indian boxing icon Vijender Singh has been appointed as a member of the Asian Boxing Council, marking a major transition from elite athlete to continental sports administrator. The appointment highlights India's growing influence in global boxing governance and recognises Vijender's long-standing contribution to the sport across amateur and professional circuits.

12. Vidarbha scripted a landmark moment in Indian domestic cricket by winning their first "Vijay Hazare Trophy" title with a commanding 38-run victory over two-time champions "Saurashtra". The final, played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, marked the culmination of a consistent campaign built on depth in batting and disciplined bowling.

13. England all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt scripted history by becoming the first batter to score a century in Women's Premier League history during WPL 2026. Her unbeaten hundred powered Mumbai Indians to a massive total against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Nat Sciver-Brunt produced a landmark unbeaten 100 off 57 balls at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara.

14. Vidarbha achieved a landmark milestone in Indian domestic cricket by winning their maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy. The team defeated Saurashtra in the final at Bengaluru with a confident all-round performance. Strong batting at the top and disciplined bowling later ensured Vidarbha lifted the prestigious List A title for the first time in their cricketing history.

15. The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is set to bring cricket fever back to South Asia. Scheduled from 6^th February to 8^th March 2026, this edition will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, marking a landmark collaboration between two cricket-loving nations.

References:
jagranjosh.com
gktoday.in
business-standard.com