The Government of India announced the Padma Awards 2026 ahead of Republic Day, recognising individuals for their distinguished and exceptional service in various fields. The awards highlight both celebrated personalities and lesser-known contributors whose work has created a lasting social impact.

Key Points

• A total of 131 Padma Awards were approved for 2026, comprising 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards.
• Padma Vibhushan awardees include Dharmendra (posthumous) for cinema, V. S. Achuthanandan (posthumous) for public affairs, N. Rajam for art, K. T. Thomas for public service, and P. Narayanan for literature and education.
• Prominent Padma Bhushan recipients include Alka Yagnik for music, Mammootty for cinema, Uday Kotak for trade and industry, Vijay Amritraj for sports, and Nori Dattatreyudu for medicine.
• Notable Padma Shri awardees include Rohit Sharma for cricket, Harmanpreet Kaur for women’s cricket, Savita Punia for hockey, R. Madhavan for cinema, and Prosenjit Chatterjee for arts.
• The 2026 Padma Awards place special emphasis on grassroots achievers and unsung heroes, along with recognition of individuals from diverse states and the Indian diaspora.

On the occasion of Republic Day 2026, President Droupadi Murmu approved the conferment of the Ashok Chakra — India’s highest peacetime gallantry award — on Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force. The honour recognises his exceptional courage and historic achievements during a high-risk space mission, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s defence and space exploration efforts.

Key Points

• Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla was conferred the Ashok Chakra, the highest peacetime gallantry award in India, approved by President Droupadi Murmu for his heroic and pioneering service.
• Shukla made history by becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS) and only the second Indian to travel to space, participating in the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) in June 2025.
• The award recognises his exceptional courage and operational excellence amidst the challenges of spaceflight, conducting scientific experiments and mission operations in microgravity.
• The President approved gallantry awards for 70 Armed Forces personnel on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, with Shukla’s Ashok Chakra being the sole award of its category this year.
• Shukla’s achievement highlights the growing strategic importance of India’s human spaceflight programme and serves as an inspiration for future missions, including the indigenous Gaganyaan crewed spaceflight.

Silambam exponent K. Pajanivel of Puducherry has been conferred the Padma Shri — India’s fourth-highest civilian award — in recognition of his outstanding contribution to traditional martial arts, particularly the ancient Tamil martial art of Silambam, which he has preserved and promoted nationally and internationally.

Key Points

• K. Pajanivel was awarded the Padma Shri in 2026 for his lifelong dedication to Silambam, a centuries-old traditional martial art form known for its use of bamboo staff techniques.
• Born on 30 January 1973 in Pooranankuppam, Puducherry, Pajanivel trained under Master Rajaram and has spent over four decades practising, teaching, and popularising Silambam.
• He has trained numerous students free of cost to ensure the transmission of Silambam to future generations and represented the art through performances, demonstrations, and competitions across India and abroad.
• Prior recognitions include the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Martial Arts (2023), Kalaimamani Award (2012) from the Government of Puducherry, Best Youth Award (2004) by Nehru Yuva Kendra, and the Silambam International Award (2002).
• Pajanivel said the Padma Shri encourages his mission to take Tamil heritage to the world and urged that Silambam be introduced in school education with governmental support.

President Droupadi Murmu approved the Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards-2025 to 30 individuals in recognition of their acts of exceptional courage and humanity in saving lives. The awards, conferred in three categories, honour both living and posthumous recipients for selfless bravery and prompt action in life-saving situations.

Key Points

• The Jeevan Raksha Padak Awards were approved for 30 persons for the year 2025, covering acts of courage involved in saving lives under challenging circumstances.
• The awards are presented in three categories: Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak, and Jeevan Raksha Padak, based on the degree of risk and bravery involved.
• Among the 30 awardees, six persons were honoured posthumously, recognising their ultimate sacrifice while saving others.
• The Jeevan Raksha Padak Series acknowledges acts of meritorious human nature, including rescuing individuals from fire, drowning, accidents, or other life-threatening situations.
• Persons from all walks of life — civilians, government personnel, and responders — are eligible, and the award highlights the spirit of selflessness and bravery in ordinary citizens and service members alike.

India has taken a significant step in transforming higher education by launching its first AI-enabled university pilot at Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU) in Meerut. The initiative, developed in partnership with Google Cloud and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, aims to integrate artificial intelligence across academics, campus operations, and personalized student learning.

Key Points:

• India’s first AI-powered university pilot has been launched at Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, where AI tools will support education, administration, and student engagement.
• The project was unveiled by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in collaboration with Google Cloud, highlighting government-industry cooperation to modernize education.
• The AI systems are designed to enhance learning through AI tutors capable of supporting regional languages, personalized academic guidance, and smart campus management.
• This initiative marks a shift toward technology-driven, efficient, and inclusive higher education in India, leveraging AI to expand accessibility and improve student outcomes.
• The pilot at CCSU sets a precedent for future AI-enabled university models nationwide, aligning with India’s broader goals to scale AI integration in education and workforce preparation.

The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), in collaboration with the Central Sanskrit University, has launched a Manuscript Revival Initiative to preserve, digitize, and promote ancient Sanskrit manuscripts. The project aims to safeguard India’s traditional knowledge and make it accessible for research and education.

Key Points:

• The initiative focuses on reviving ancient Sanskrit manuscripts related to Ayurveda, philosophy, and traditional sciences.
• Digitization and cataloguing of manuscripts will ensure preservation of fragile texts and facilitate wider access to scholars and students.
• The project promotes research in traditional knowledge systems, bridging classical wisdom with modern scientific inquiry.
• Training programs and workshops are planned to develop expertise in manuscript preservation and interpretation.
• The initiative strengthens collaboration between CCRAS and Central Sanskrit University, reinforcing India’s commitment to conserving cultural and scientific heritage.

Following the conclusion of the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Prime Minister Narendra Modi adopted a unique diplomatic approach by sharing messages in multiple European languages. The move aimed to directly connect with people and leadership across EU member states and underline the significance of the landmark trade pact.

Key Points

• PM Modi shared the announcement of the India–EU FTA in all official European Union languages, reaching audiences across the 27-nation bloc.
• The multilingual messages highlighted that the trade deal marks a new chapter in India–EU relations, focused on shared prosperity and deeper economic cooperation.
• The initiative was seen as an example of modern and people-centric diplomacy, going beyond conventional government communication.
• Several European leaders and representatives responded positively, appreciating the gesture and acknowledging India’s outreach efforts.
• The India–EU FTA is expected to reduce tariffs, enhance market access, and strengthen trade and investment ties between India and Europe.

India is preparing to significantly reduce import tariffs on cars from the European Union as negotiations for the long-pending India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) near completion. The proposed move marks a major shift in India’s trade policy and is expected to open up the automobile sector to greater foreign competition while boosting bilateral trade ties.

Key Points

• India currently imposes very high import duties on EU-made cars, ranging between 70% and 110%, making imported vehicles expensive for domestic buyers.
• Under the proposed trade deal, these tariffs are expected to be cut sharply to around 40% initially, with further phased reductions to nearly 10% over the coming years.
• European automakers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Renault are likely to gain improved access to India’s fast-growing automobile market.
• The move has raised concerns among Indian car manufacturers, as reports of tariff cuts led to a temporary dip in the share prices of some domestic auto companies.
• The tariff reduction on cars is part of a broader India–EU FTA that aims to reduce or eliminate duties on the majority of goods traded between the two sides, potentially boosting overall bilateral trade and investment.

India is preparing to make a significant shift in trade policy by reducing import tariffs on cars from the European Union as part of a landmark India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that is close to being finalised. This move marks one of the biggest openings of India’s historically protected automobile market and is expected to enhance bilateral trade and market access for European automakers.

Key Points

• India plans to slash import tariffs on cars imported from the EU to 40%, down from current levels as high as 70%–110%, under the proposed trade pact with the European Union.
• The initial tariff cut would apply to a limited number of fully built cars priced above roughly €15,000 (~?16.3 lakh), with plans for a gradual reduction to 10% over time for eligible vehicles.
• European automakers such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Renault, and Stellantis are expected to benefit from the lowered duties, which would make their vehicles more competitively priced in India’s large auto market.
• The tariff cuts represent the largest market opening in India’s automobile sector to date and coincide with a broader trade agreement that will reduce or eliminate tariffs on most goods traded between India and the EU.
• The proposal has already had market impacts, with major Indian carmakers’ shares falling on concerns that cheaper European imports could increase competition for domestic manufacturers.

India celebrated its 77th Republic Day Parade on 26 January 2026 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, marking the adoption of the Constitution with a grand display of military strength, cultural diversity, and historic firsts. The event also featured international dignitaries as chief guests, underscoring India’s growing global partnerships.

Key Points

• The parade’s theme for 2026 combined unity in diversity and the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram”, with cultural performances by artists depicting India’s heritage across various states.
• Chief Guests at the celebrations were Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and António Costa, President of the European Council, marking the first time both top leaders of the European Union attended together as Republic Day chief guests — highlighting deepening India-EU strategic ties.
• Historic first-time elements included the debut of the Suryastra Universal Rocket Launcher System, the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, a symbolic animal contingent, and modern phased battle array formations demonstrating operational readiness.
• The Indian Air Force aerial display featured a flypast by 29 aircraft — including Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, and Apache helicopters — showcasing India’s air capability.
• Advanced military platforms such as BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Akash surface-to-air missiles, MRSAM systems, ATAGS artillery, and Dhanush guns were showcased, underlining indigenous defense manufacturing and combat readiness.

India marked its 77th Republic Day on 26 January 2026 with grand celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, highlighting the nation’s cultural diversity, economic progress, and military strength. The parade was attended by key dignitaries and featured vibrant tableaux, military displays, and cultural performances that reflected India’s unity and achievements.

Key Points:

• The 77th Republic Day parade took place at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions through colourful tableaux and performances.
• President Droupadi Murmu presided over the celebrations, and the ceremony began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tribute to fallen heroes at the National War Memorial.
• Chief guests included Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, highlighting international diplomatic engagement.
• The parade featured impressive displays of India’s defence capabilities, including weapon systems like BrahMos, Akash, and the rocket launcher Suryastra, along with a flypast by 29 Indian Air Force aircraft.
• Cultural performances by over 2,500 artists and the theme of ‘Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram’ celebrated India’s journey of unity, progress, and self-reliance.

President Droupadi Murmu presided over the National Voters’ Day 2026 programme in New Delhi, emphasising that voting is more than a political act — it reflects citizens’ faith in India’s democratic process and serves as a way for people to express their aspirations. National Voters’ Day is observed every year on 25th January to encourage young and first-time voters to participate in the electoral process. The event was held under the theme “My India, My Vote: Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy” and included awards and recognition for effective electoral practices. 

Key Points

• President Murmu said that voting is not just a political expression but a reflection of citizens’ faith in democracy, urging all eligible adults to exercise their right responsibly while keeping constitutional duties in mind. 
• She highlighted India’s chairship of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) and noted participation by 42 election management bodies and representatives from several countries at a recent international conference. 
• The theme for the year’s celebration was “My India, My Vote: Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy” and aimed to strengthen voter awareness and participation. 
• On the occasion, the President handed over Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPICs) to newly enrolled young electors and presented Best Electoral Practices Awards in categories such as technology use, voter awareness and election management. 
• Best Election District Awards went to districts including East Champaran (Bihar), Kasaragod (Kerala), Thanjavur (Tamil Nadu), and others received accolades for election management and innovative voter initiatives. 

India has made significant progress in innovation performance by securing the 38th position in the Global Innovation Index 2025, a sharp rise from its 66th rank in 2019. The improvement reflects sustained policy reforms, growth in startups, and increased focus on research and development.

Key Points:

• India improved its ranking to 38th in the Global Innovation Index 2025, up from 66th position in 2019.
• The rise highlights India’s strengthening innovation ecosystem, driven by startups, digital infrastructure, and policy support.
• Increased investment in research and development and stronger university–industry collaboration contributed to the improvement.
• Government initiatives promoting ease of doing business, digital public infrastructure, and innovation-led growth played a key role.
• The achievement underscores India’s growing global stature as an emerging hub for innovation and technology-driven development.

Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index 2026 shows global cost differences in everyday expenses across cities. This year Zurich (Switzerland) ranks as the most expensive city in the world, while several Indian cities are among the most affordable (lowest-cost) globally. India’s overall cost of living remains much lower compared to leading expensive cities.

Key Points:

• Zurich in Switzerland tops the 2026 cost of living rankings, making it the most expensive city in the world according to Numbeo’s index, with a high cost of goods and services compared with other global cities.
• Swiss cities dominate the top ranks, with Geneva, Basel, Lausanne, Lugano, and Bern also among the costliest places to live in 2026.
• At the other end of the spectrum, Indian cities such as Patna, Bhopal, and Indore are ranked among the lowest-cost cities globally, placing far below the world’s expensive urban centres.
• This demonstrates that living in India remains highly affordable compared with high-cost international cities — daily expenses in many Indian urban areas are significantly lower.

The Economic Survey 2025–26, tabled in Parliament ahead of the Union Budget, provides a comprehensive review of India’s economic performance, growth outlook, and policy priorities. It highlights strong GDP growth, historically low inflation, rising consumption and investment, infrastructure expansion, digital innovation, and challenges to sustain inclusive and resilient growth.

Key Points:

• The Survey projects real GDP growth at around 7.4% and GVA growth at about 7.3% for FY26, reaffirming India as one of the fastest-growing major economies.
• Inflation remained at historic lows, with headline CPI averaging nearly 1.7% during April–December 2025, enhancing macroeconomic stability.
• Private consumption remained the main growth driver, contributing over 60% of GDP, supported by rising incomes and stable employment.
• Investment activity strengthened, with Gross Fixed Capital Formation supported by public capital expenditure and a revival in private investment.
• The external sector remained resilient, backed by strong services exports, diversified trade partners, and robust remittance inflows.
• The Survey highlights improved fiscal performance, with higher tax revenues, strong GST collections, and better compliance.
• The services sector continued to lead growth, driven by IT, financial services, tourism, and digital services.
• Agriculture and allied sectors performed well, supported by record foodgrain production, livestock growth, and policy support mechanisms.
• The manufacturing sector gained momentum through PLI schemes, supply-chain diversification, and increased domestic production capacity.
• Significant progress was recorded in infrastructure development, including highways, railways, power capacity, and rural connectivity.
• The Survey notes improvements in education and health outcomes, supported by reforms under the National Education Policy and enhanced healthcare access.
• Poverty reduction and rural development efforts showed positive results, aided by targeted welfare schemes and asset-creation programmes.
• The report highlights urban transformation, with advances in transport, waste management, and smart city initiatives.
• It emphasises India’s growing digital and AI ecosystem, focusing on innovation, data governance, and skill development.
• The Survey also flags key challenges, including global economic uncertainty, climate risks, productivity gaps, and the need for continued structural reforms.

The Economic Survey 2025-26, presented ahead of the Union Budget, assesses India’s economic performance, key trends, and future prospects. It highlights robust economic growth, stable macroeconomic indicators, strong services expansion, structural reforms, and recommendations to sustain long-term development and global integration.

Key Points:

• The Survey projected India’s real GDP growth at 7.4% for FY26 with GVA growth around 7.3%, underlining India’s position as the fastest-growing major economy.
• Headline inflation averaged at a historic low of 1.7% between April–December 2025, contributing to improved consumer purchasing power and macro stability.
• The services sector remained a key growth driver, with services GVA expanding above 9%, supported by trade, finance, and digital services.
• The Survey highlighted continued fiscal consolidation, expanding tax base with rising income tax returns and GST collections, and sovereign credit rating upgrades in 2025.
• Banking sector health improved with non-performing assets at multi-decade low levels, while financial inclusion and investment deepened through schemes like PMJDY and enhanced investor participation.

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has launched Pragya-AIX, an integrated digital platform that brings together 26+ artificial intelligence applications to enhance efficiency and output in the oil and gas sector. The initiative was launched in New Delhi as part of ONGC’s push towards digital transformation and energy security.

Key Points:

• Pragya-AIX unifies more than 26 AI-based applications into a single platform for streamlined operations across ONGC’s exploration and production activities.
• The platform leverages advanced analytics, machine learning, and automation to optimise drilling, reservoir management, and production processes.
• It is aimed at improving decision-making, operational efficiency, and resource utilisation in oil and gas exploration.
• The initiative supports ONGC’s vision of adopting cutting-edge digital technologies to strengthen India’s energy sector.
• The launch of Pragya-AIX marks a significant step towards AI-driven innovation in India’s upstream oil and gas industry.

The Adani Group and Brazil-based Embraer have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore aircraft manufacturing and related activities in India. The collaboration aligns with India’s Make in India initiative and aims to strengthen the country’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

Key Points:

• The MoU focuses on manufacturing, assembly, and potential lifecycle support of aircraft in India.
• The partnership aims to boost India’s domestic aerospace capabilities and reduce dependence on imports.
• Embraer is a global aerospace major known for commercial, defence, and executive aircraft.
• Adani Group is expanding its presence in defence and aerospace manufacturing through strategic global partnerships.
• The collaboration is expected to create skilled jobs, enhance technology transfer, and support India’s goal of becoming a global aviation hub.

Somalia’s Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi to participate in the second India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, reflecting India’s growing diplomatic engagement with Arab and African nations. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance cooperation across multiple sectors.

Key Points:

• Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali Omar arrived in New Delhi ahead of the second India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
• The high-level meeting brings together foreign ministers from Arab countries to discuss political, economic, and strategic cooperation with India.
• The India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting serves as a platform to deepen partnerships in trade, energy, education, culture, and development cooperation.
• During the visit, bilateral discussions are expected between Indian leaders and participating foreign ministers to enhance mutual collaboration.
• The event highlights India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Arab nations and countries in the Horn of Africa through structured diplomatic dialogue.

India is set to host the second India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on 31 January 2026 in New Delhi. The meeting aims to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and strategic cooperation between India and Arab League countries, fostering partnerships in trade, energy, education, and culture.

Key Points:

• The meeting will bring together foreign ministers from Arab League member states along with the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States.
• It provides a platform to enhance bilateral and multilateral cooperation across sectors such as trade, energy, education, media, and culture.
• India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will hold bilateral talks with visiting foreign ministers to discuss mutual collaboration.
• The meeting is part of India’s continuing diplomatic engagement with the Arab world and the Horn of Africa region.
• The event marks a key step in strengthening strategic and economic ties and building long-term partnerships with Arab nations.

The United States has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), ending its long-standing association with the global health body. The decision was taken after the U.S. government expressed dissatisfaction with WHO’s functioning and its handling of major global health emergencies, raising concerns about the future of international health cooperation.

Key Points

• The withdrawal process was initiated after the U.S. administration gave the mandatory one-year notice, as required under WHO rules, before formally exiting the organization.
• The U.S. cited issues such as lack of transparency, governance concerns, and alleged mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic as key reasons for leaving the WHO.
• Following the withdrawal, the United States stopped its financial contributions and ended participation in WHO-led programmes and decision-making bodies.
• The WHO expressed concern over the move, warning that it could affect global disease surveillance, pandemic preparedness, and coordinated health responses.
• Global health experts have cautioned that the U.S. exit may lead to funding gaps, reduced research collaboration, and a shift in global health leadership, impacting vulnerable countries the most.

India has made a historic debut as the Partner Country at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, marking the first such participation in the event’s 31-year history. The milestone reflects India’s growing prominence in the global agri-food trade and its expanding engagement with international markets.

Key Points:

• Gulfood 2026 is the world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing exhibition and is being held in Dubai from January 26 to 30, 2026.
• India’s participation as Partner Country is being led by APEDA under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Over 160 Indian exhibitors are showcasing a wide range of agricultural and processed food products, including cereals, pulses, spices, beverages, and ready-to-eat foods.
• The event is being organised across two major venues — the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai — for the first time.
• India’s partner country status highlights its ambition to strengthen agri-exports, enhance global supply chain integration, and deepen trade ties with the UAE and other international partners.

Inderjit Singh Bindra, a legendary cricket administrator and former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), passed away on 25 January 2026 in New Delhi at the age of 84. Bindra was widely respected for his transformative role in Indian cricket’s growth, both on the administrative front and in expanding India’s global prominence in the sport.

Key Points

• Inderjit Singh Bindra died at the age of 84 in New Delhi, where he was residing, leaving behind a rich legacy in cricket administration.
• He served as BCCI president from 1993 to 1996 and was instrumental in ushering in major commercial and structural reforms in Indian cricket.
• Bindra also led the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) for over three decades (1978–2014), and the PCA stadium in Mohali was named IS Bindra Stadium in his honour.
• His contributions included helping bring the Cricket World Cup to the subcontinent and modernising broadcast rights and marketing, which greatly increased the sport’s revenues and popularity.
• Tributes poured in from the BCCI, cricket fraternity including players and administrators, and events like Ranji Trophy matches observed a minute’s silence in his memory, reflecting his profound impact on Indian cricket.

Veteran journalist, broadcaster, and author Mark Tully — widely known as the BBC’s “voice of India” — passed away in New Delhi at the age of 90. Tully spent decades reporting on India’s major historical and social events, earning respect for his insightful journalism and deep engagement with the country.

Key Points

• Sir Mark Tully, a renowned journalist and former BBC New Delhi bureau chief, died on 25 January 2026 in New Delhi at the age of 90 after a brief illness.
• Born in Kolkata on 24 October 1935, Tully joined the BBC in the 1960s and served as its India correspondent and bureau chief for over two decades, becoming one of the most respected foreign journalists covering Indian affairs.
• Tully was known for reporting on key events such as the 1971 India-Pakistan war, Operation Blue Star, and social and political developments, bringing India’s stories to global audiences.
• Apart from journalism, he was an acclaimed author of books on India, including No Full Stops in India, India in Slow Motion, and The Heart of India. He also presented the BBC Radio 4 programme Something Understood.
• Tully was knighted in 2002 and honoured by the Government of India with the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan, reflecting his enduring impact on journalism and cultural understanding.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has conducted Open Market Operations (OMO) worth Rs.1 lakh crore to manage liquidity in the financial system and support monetary policy transmission. The move aims to ensure stability in interest rates and promote smooth functioning of financial markets.

Key Points:

• The RBI’s OMO involved purchasing government securities from the secondary market to inject liquidity into the banking system.
• The Rs.1 lakh crore OMO is part of RBI’s broader strategy to maintain adequate money supply and manage short-term interest rate volatility.
• This action supports monetary policy objectives, ensuring that borrowing costs for businesses and households remain stable.
• OMOs are crucial for financial market stability, helping maintain alignment between liquidity conditions and RBI’s policy rates.
• The operation is expected to facilitate credit flow to the economy, boosting investment and consumption activities while managing inflationary pressures.

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have developed an advanced technique to monitor and track glacier hazards in the Eastern Himalayas. The innovation aims to improve early warning systems for glacier-related disasters, such as floods and landslides, helping to protect communities and infrastructure in the region.

Key Points:

• The new technique combines satellite data, remote sensing, and geospatial analysis to monitor glacier movement and potential hazards.
• It allows scientists to predict glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and other glacier-related risks in real-time.
• The approach enhances disaster preparedness for communities living downstream of Himalayan glaciers.
• The research supports climate change studies by providing insights into glacial melting patterns and environmental impact.
• IIT Guwahati’s initiative contributes to strengthening early warning systems and mitigating the socio-economic impact of glacier hazards in the Eastern Himalayan region.

Michael Nobbs, former head coach of the Indian men’s hockey team, passed away at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness. He is remembered for his contribution to Indian hockey, including leading the team at the 2012 London Olympics.

Key Points:

• Michael Nobbs was an Australian former international hockey player before transitioning into coaching.
• He was appointed as the head coach of the Indian men’s hockey team in 2011.
• Under his guidance, India qualified for and competed in the 2012 London Olympic Games, returning to the Olympics after an eight-year gap.
• Nobbs also contributed to hockey development by coaching teams in other countries, including Japan.
• His passing marks the loss of an experienced coach who played a role in shaping modern Indian hockey during a transitional phase.

Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan clinched the Australian Open 2026 Women’s Singles championship after a hard-fought final at Melbourne Park. The victory marks a major milestone in her career and further establishes her among the elite players in women’s tennis.

Key Points:

• Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka in the final with a scoreline of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 to win the Australian Open 2026 Women’s Singles title.
• This triumph is Rybakina’s first Australian Open title and her second Grand Slam victory, following her Wimbledon win in 2022.
• The final showcased Rybakina’s powerful serve, calm temperament, and consistency under pressure, especially during the decisive third set.
• By winning the title, Rybakina avenged her earlier defeat against Sabalenka in the Australian Open final in previous editions.
• The victory strengthened her position in the global WTA rankings and highlighted her status as one of the most formidable players on hard courts.

India has submitted the nomination of Meghalaya’s living root bridges to UNESCO for inclusion in the World Heritage List. These unique bridges, formed from the aerial roots of Ficus elastica trees, showcase indigenous engineering, cultural heritage, and harmony with nature.

Key Points:

• Meghalaya’s living root bridges are biologically grown structures, engineered by local communities over centuries using the roots of rubber trees.
• The bridges represent a blend of traditional knowledge, ecological engineering, and sustainable architecture.
• The UNESCO nomination aims to recognise and preserve these natural and cultural treasures for future generations.
• Living root bridges are functional infrastructure, supporting pedestrian movement in hilly and flood-prone areas.
• Inclusion in the World Heritage List would promote global awareness, tourism, and conservation efforts in Meghalaya.

The Gujarat government has announced a financial support programme, the Namo Laxmi Scheme, allocating ?1,250 crore to promote girls’ education. The initiative aims to increase school enrolment, reduce dropout rates, and empower girls through educational and skill-development opportunities.

Key Points:

• The Namo Laxmi Scheme provides direct financial assistance to families to encourage girls to continue their education.
• The total allocation of ?1,250 crore will be utilised for scholarships, educational resources, and skill-building initiatives.
• The scheme focuses on reducing dropout rates among girls in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.
• It aligns with broader efforts to achieve gender equality in education and enhance women’s socio-economic empowerment.
• By supporting girls’ education, the Gujarat government aims to strengthen human capital and promote long-term social and economic development in the state.

The Madhya Pradesh government has announced that 2026 will be observed as the ‘Year of Agriculture’, with a strong emphasis on farmer welfare and agricultural development. The initiative aims to strengthen the rural economy and improve the livelihoods of farmers across the state.

Key Points:

• The decision to observe 2026 as the ‘Year of Agriculture’ reflects Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to prioritising the farming sector and rural development.
• The state government plans to focus on farmer welfare measures, including income enhancement, crop diversification, and improved access to agricultural resources.
• Special emphasis will be placed on modern farming techniques, irrigation expansion, and the use of technology to boost agricultural productivity.
• Schemes related to soil health, crop insurance, and market access for farmers are expected to be strengthened during the year-long initiative.
• The move is aimed at making agriculture more sustainable while ensuring economic security and social well-being for farmers in Madhya Pradesh.

The Sikkim Police has been conferred the President’s Police Colour Award in recognition of its distinguished service, professionalism, and dedication to duty. The prestigious honour acknowledges the force’s contribution to maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety in the state.

Key Points:

• The President’s Police Colour Award is one of the highest honours given to police forces in India for exceptional service and operational excellence.
• Sikkim Police received the award for its consistent commitment to maintaining peace, security, and effective policing in challenging terrains.
• The recognition highlights the force’s role in community policing, disaster response, and internal security management.
• The award also reflects improvements in training, discipline, and adoption of modern policing practices by the Sikkim Police.
• The honour boosts morale within the force and reinforces public trust in policing institutions.

The Government of Uttarakhand signed a key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to launch the Healthy Border Campaign (Swasth Seema Abhiyan), aimed at improving healthcare services and well-being in remote border villages. The initiative focuses on providing integrated primary healthcare and strengthening the livelihoods of residents in strategic frontier regions of the state.

Key Points

• The MoU was signed in Dehradun in the presence of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, along with Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat and Cabinet Minister Saurabh Bahuguna.
• Under the agreement, the ITBP and the Uttarakhand government will jointly launch the Healthy Border Campaign to provide integrated primary healthcare services in 108 remote border villages.
• The first phase of the campaign will cover villages in the border districts of Pithoragarh, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi, aimed at addressing healthcare gaps in high-altitude and hard-to-reach areas.
• The ITBP will deploy qualified medical staff, telemedicine facilities, and regular health camps, while the state government will support with medicine supplies, demographic data, equipment, and logistical backing.
• This initiative intends to strengthen both health access and rural livelihoods in frontier areas, improving living standards and supporting national development goals in strategically important border regions.

The Tamil Nadu Government, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has introduced a new annual national-level literary award called the Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu (Classical Language Literary Award). The initiative seeks to recognise and celebrate outstanding literary works in multiple Indian languages and promote linguistic diversity in India’s cultural landscape.

Key Points

• The Tamil Nadu Government announced the Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu, a new national-level literary award to honour the best literary works across selected Indian languages.
• The award was unveiled by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at the Chennai International Book Fair (CIBF-2026) as a major state initiative to support Indian language literature.
• In its first phase, the award will recognise publications in seven Indian languages: Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Odia, Bengali, and Marathi.
• Each award will carry a cash prize of ?5 lakh, making it a significant literary honour for writers and authors in non-Hindi Indian languages.
• The Tamil Nadu Government will serve as the patron, while an independent panel of literary experts will select awardees to ensure fair and credible recognition.

The 6th National Crop Nutrition Summit & B2B Expo is scheduled for 5th–6th February 2026 in Mumbai, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, scientists and innovators to discuss advancements in crop nutrition, agri-input policy, manufacturing and sustainable farming. The summit, organized by the Indian Micro-Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA), will focus on collaboration and innovation to strengthen India’s role in global agriculture.

Key Points:

• The 6th National Crop Nutrition Summit & B2B Expo will be held on 5–6 February 2026 at the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai.
• It is organized by the Indian Micro-Fertilizers Manufacturers Association (IMMA), a national body representing micronutrient and specialty fertilizer manufacturers in India.
• The event’s theme “Converge, Collaborate & Co-create” highlights a focus on policy dialogue, innovation, science and industry cooperation to boost crop nutrition practices and agri-input manufacturing.
• The summit will feature sessions on regulatory frameworks like One Nation, One License, the integration of micronutrients and biologicals, and strategies for improved business environments and export competitiveness.
• Participants will include central and state agriculture policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, startups and global experts, facilitating networking, B2B meetings and masterclasses on topics such as international trade and AI in agribusiness.

India is hosting the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi on 31 January 2026, co-chaired with the United Arab Emirates, after nearly 10 years since the first one held in Bahrain in 2016.

Key Points

• The meeting is being held after a 10-year gap since the first such meeting in Bahrain (2016).
• Foreign Ministers of the 22 Arab League member states and the Secretary General of the Arab League will participate.
• The IAFMM serves as the highest institutional mechanism for cooperation between India and the Arab League, building on previous engagements and a long-standing partnership.
• The meeting will expand and deepen cooperation across multiple priority areas identified earlier, including economy, energy, education, media and culture.
• India serves as an Observer to the League of Arab States.
• The ministerial meeting is preceded by the 4th India-Arab Senior Officials’ Meeting (30 January 2026).