Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: January 19, 2026
Compiled from 15+ leading Indian news sources
Your daily exam-focused news digest covering critical developments across governance, economy, international relations, science, and sports. Every article verified from original newspaper sources.
Today’s Top 10 Recall Points (Snapshot)
- Kaziranga Corridor: PM Modi laid the foundation for the ₹6,950 crore elevated corridor project in Kaliabor, Assam.
- Gaza Board of Peace: US President Donald Trump invited India to join the international oversight board for Gaza’s reconstruction.
- New Rail Services: Three new trains, including a Vande Bharat Sleeper from Guwahati to Kolkata, were announced for the North East.
- Viksit Bharat 2047: Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth addressed the NCC Republic Day Camp, emphasizing youth’s role in the 2047 vision.
- Mumbai Civic Polls: Significant political shifts recorded as the BJP emerged as the largest party in Mumbai’s municipal elections.
- India-NZ ODI: New Zealand clinched their first ODI series win in India after defeating the hosts in the 3rd match.
- NGT Water Directives: The National Green Tribunal ordered Madhya Pradesh to implement 24×7 water supply apps and curb leakages.
- Afghanistan Earthquake: A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck the Hindu Kush region, highlighting seismic vulnerabilities.
- Startup Growth: Official figures confirmed India now hosts over 2 lakh startups, a massive jump from 800 a decade ago.
- EPFO Reform: Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) announced UPI-based withdrawals will be active by April 2026.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
PM Modi Launches ₹6,950 Crore Kaziranga Elevated Corridor in Assam
Summary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a major infrastructure project in Assam to protect wildlife and improve connectivity.
On January 18, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ for the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project in Kaliabor, Assam. This ₹6,950 crore project involves the construction of an 86-km-long four-lane elevated highway designed to prevent wildlife-vehicle collisions within the Kaziranga National Park. The PM emphasized that this project would serve as a “lifeline” for Upper Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, ensuring that the movement of animals is not hindered by heavy traffic. This is part of a larger initiative to transform the North East into a “hub of connectivity” through the “double-engine” government model. The corridor also aims to boost eco-tourism while maintaining the ecological integrity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS Paper III (Infrastructure and Environment) and State PSCs. Know the significance of Kaziranga as a UNESCO site and the geographical location of Kaliabor.
Source: Press Information Bureau – https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2215841
Maharashtra Municipal Election Results Signal Shift in Urban Governance
Summary: Recent civic poll results in Mumbai and major cities indicate a major realignment in Maharashtra’s local politics.
On January 18, 2026, Prime Minister Modi cited the recently announced results of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation elections, where the BJP secured a record number of seats in major cities like Mumbai. Speaking from Assam, he noted that the BJP has become the “first choice” for urban voters, while the Congress has been pushed to the fourth or fifth spot in its former strongholds. In Mumbai, the BJP wrested control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), while the Shiv Sena (UBT) was relegated to the opposition. This outcome is seen as a precursor to the state assembly’s future dynamics, reflecting voter priority for development over traditional identity politics.
Exam Angle: Significant for GS Paper II (Local Governance and Elections). Understanding the structure of Municipal Corporations and the significance of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act.
Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/assam/bjp-is-peoples-first-choice-congress-has-lost-the-nations-trust-pm/article70522132.ece
Karnataka’s ₹2,500 Crore Bribery Allegation Sparks Political Row
Summary: The opposition in Karnataka has demanded the resignation of the Excise Minister over alleged large-scale corruption.
On January 18, 2026, the Karnataka BJP unit officially alleged a ₹2,500 crore bribery scam within the state’s Excise Department. Leading the charge, opposition leaders demanded the immediate resignation of the Excise Minister, citing evidence of “illegal collection” from liquor vendors. Simultaneously, Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar announced a 5-km ‘padayatra’ (march) in every constituency of the state to protest against the central government’s alleged move to repeal the MGNREGA scheme. These developments mark a period of intense political friction in the state, with both the ruling party and opposition using large-scale public demonstrations to mobilize support.
Exam Angle: Important for State PSCs and GS Paper II (Accountability and Ethics in Governance). Focus on the mechanisms of corruption investigation like Lokayukta.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-18-2026-news-headlines-10480324/
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Link Guwahati and Kolkata
Summary: The Ministry of Railways announced the commercial run of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train starting January 22.
During his visit to Kaliabor on January 18, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of three new train services, including the much-anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper train between Guwahati (Kamakhya) and Howrah. This marks a significant milestone in Indian Railways’ modernization, as the sleeper variant is designed for long-distance overnight travel with superior amenities compared to the chair-car version. Additionally, two Amrit Bharat Express trains were flagged off to improve connectivity across Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. These services are intended to benefit students, traders, and tourists, further integrating the North-Eastern region with the rest of the national rail grid.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper III (Infrastructure: Railways). Note the features of Vande Bharat 2.0 and the Amrit Bharat Express scheme for regional connectivity.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-18-2026-news-headlines-10480324/
Raksha Rajya Mantri Reviews NCC Republic Day Camp 2026
Summary: Sanjay Seth interacted with cadets at the Delhi Cantt camp, hailing them as the “living bridge” to India’s future.
On January 18, 2026, Raksha Rajya Mantri (RRM) Shri Sanjay Seth visited the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantt. Addressing cadets from 17 Directorates, he emphasized the importance of a “Swadeshi mindset” and lauded the growth of the startup ecosystem to over 2 lakh units. He specifically highlighted the achievement of 15 cadets who completed the 1,300 km ‘Veer Birsa Munda Cyclothon’ from Ranchi to Delhi to promote national integration. Seth urged the youth to contribute towards the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047,’ noting that the discipline learned in the NCC is foundational for nation building.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Internal Security/Youth Empowerment). Know the role of NCC and the significance of the Republic Day Parade in showcasing “Nari Shakti” and “Aatmanirbharta.”
Source: Press Information Bureau – https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2215816
EPFO to Enable UPI-Based Withdrawals by April 2026
Summary: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization is set to modernize its payout system to ensure faster settlements.
In a move to digitize social security benefits, the EPFO announced on January 18, 2026, that it expects to roll out UPI-based withdrawals for its members by April. Initially, the transaction cap is likely to be set at ₹25,000 per transaction to ensure security and ease of use. This transition aims to reduce the settlement time for small claims, which currently takes several days through traditional banking channels. The initiative is part of the government’s broader “Digital India” push, seeking to make retirement fund access as seamless as a retail payment. Officials stated that the backend integration with various banks and the NPCI is in its final stages.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper II (Government Policies) and GS Paper III (Economy). Focus on the role of EPFO in social security and the impact of UPI on financial inclusion.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-18-2026-news-headlines-10480324/
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Trump Invites India to Join ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza
Summary: US President Donald Trump has proposed an international body to oversee the governance and reconstruction of Gaza.
On January 18, 2026, it was confirmed that US President Donald Trump sent a formal invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join the “Board of Peace” for Gaza. US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, shared the invitation on social media, describing the board as the “most consequential” international organization ever assembled. The body is intended to supervise a transitional Palestinian committee of experts and handle funding for Gaza’s redevelopment. While New Delhi has acknowledged receipt of the invitation, it has not yet formally responded. India has traditionally supported a “two-state solution” and maintains that any stabilization force should ideally operate under the United Nations aegis.
Exam Angle: Critical for UPSC GS Paper II (International Relations). Analyze India’s West Asia policy (Link West Policy) and its historical stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-invited-to-sit-on-trumps-board-of-peace-for-gaza/article70523013.ece
US Imposes 10% Tariffs on European Countries Over Greenland Dispute
Summary: A fresh trade war has erupted as the US targets the UK, France, and Germany over their opposition to the “Greenland Purchase.”
US President Donald Trump announced on January 18, 2026, that the United States will impose a 10% import tariff on eight European nations, including the UK, France, and Germany, effective February 1. The move is a punitive measure against countries opposing US control over Greenland. Trump warned that these tariffs would escalate to 25% by June 1 if a deal for the “Complete and Total purchase of Greenland” is not finalized. European leaders have warned of a “dangerous downward spiral” in global trade. For India, while the direct impact is limited, the resulting global trade volatility and potential pressure on the rupee remain key concerns for policymakers.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper II (Effect of policies of developed countries). Understand the concept of “Tariff Wars” and the strategic importance of the Arctic region.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-18-2026-news-headlines-10480324/
Magnitude 4.0 Earthquake Strikes Hindu Kush Region, Afghanistan
Summary: Repeated seismic activity in Afghanistan has raised alarms about the safety of regional infrastructure.
On the evening of January 18, 2026, a magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck Afghanistan at a depth of 10 km. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the tremors were recorded at 20:30 IST in the Hindu Kush region. This follows a 4.1 magnitude tremor earlier that morning and a 4.2 magnitude quake on January 15. Afghanistan is situated on the collision zone of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it highly susceptible to shallow earthquakes. The UN has expressed concern that repeated tremors are worsening the humanitarian situation in a country already struggling with limited infrastructure and medical resilience.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper I (Geography: Earthquakes) and GS Paper II (Disaster Management). Note the location of the Hindu Kush and the plate tectonics of the Himalayan region.
Source: Economic Times – https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/world-news/earthquake-of-magnitude-4-strikes-afghanistan/articleshow/126657802.cms
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
India’s Startup Ecosystem Crosses 2 Lakh Mark in 2026
Summary: Official data highlights a massive surge in the number of recognized startups, placing India among the top global hubs.
According to data released and cited by government officials on January 18, 2026, India now hosts more than 2,00,000 recognized startups. This is a significant jump from roughly 800 startups in 2016 when the “Startup India” initiative was launched. Major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi-NCR continue to lead as innovation hubs, though Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities now contribute nearly 40% of the total ecosystem. The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) and the ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds (FFS) managed by SIDBI were cited as key drivers of this growth. However, experts noted that while the volume is high, the focus must now shift towards profitability and sustainable private investment.
Exam Angle: Crucial for GS Paper III (Economy: Investment Models and Employment). Understand the role of DPIIT in startup recognition and the significance of the “Unicorn” status.
Source: PIB & Government Data
Weak Private Capex Threatens India’s 7.4% GDP Growth Target
Summary: Economic analysts warn that rising public borrowing is “crowding out” private investment in the Indian economy.
A report on January 18, 2026, highlighted that despite a projected 7.4% GDP growth for the current financial year, India’s private investment remains sluggish. The government’s model, which relies heavily on fiscal restraint and high infrastructure spending, is facing challenges as high interest rates and scarce credit deter private corporations from expanding capacity. Economists argue that the state is effectively “crowding out” private players by maintaining high public borrowing levels to fund infrastructure. While inflation remains manageable and the trade deficit is stable, the lack of private capital expenditure (capex) could lead to a growth slowdown in the long term if not addressed in the upcoming budget.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Indian Economy). Focus on terms like “Crowding Out Effect,” “Capital Expenditure,” and “Fiscal Deficit.”
Source: Business Standard – https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-s-private-investment-is-missing-and-the-state-is-crowding-it-out-126011900144_1.html
India-New Zealand FTA Poised to Strengthen Bilateral Trade
Summary: Following a strategic victory in trade negotiations, the FTA is expected to boost investments in 2026.
Economic reviews on January 18, 2026, pointed toward the growing utilization of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The agreement, which was recently finalized, focuses on removing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) and ensuring convergence on sustainability and digital trade. India is looking to expand its exports in the dairy, agriculture, and tech sectors, while New Zealand seeks better access to India’s massive consumer market. The FTA is seen as part of India’s broader strategy to diversify its trade partners and reduce dependence on any single market, especially in the wake of rising global protectionism and US-led tariffs.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper II (Bilateral Agreements) and GS Paper III (Trade). Understand the difference between FTA, CEPA, and PTA.
Source: Business Standard (Economic Analysis Section)
5. SPORTS
New Zealand Clinches Historic ODI Series Victory in India
Summary: The Kiwis defeated India in the 3rd ODI to seal their first-ever 50-over series win on Indian soil.
On January 18, 2026, the New Zealand cricket team scripted history by winning the 3rd ODI against India, securing a historic 2-1 series victory. This marks the first time in bilateral matches that the Kiwis have won an ODI series in India. Despite a masterful 59th List-A century by Virat Kohli, the Indian team fell short as the New Zealand bowlers defended a competitive total with resourcefulness. Kohli’s performance further cemented his legacy, but the series loss has sparked debates regarding India’s preparations for the 2027 World Cup. The Kiwi victory is being hailed as a tactical masterpiece, particularly their adaptation to Indian pitch conditions.
Exam Angle: General awareness for SSC and Banking exams. Note the statistical milestones like Kohli’s century and the historical context of the series.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/
Vidarbha Wins Maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy Title
Summary: Vidarbha established themselves as a domestic cricket powerhouse by defeating Saurashtra in the final.
In a landmark moment for domestic cricket on January 18, 2026, Vidarbha clinched their first-ever Vijay Hazare Trophy by defeating Saurashtra. The victory makes Vidarbha one of the few teams to have won all major domestic titles (Ranji Trophy, Irani Cup, and Vijay Hazare Trophy). The final was a closely contested affair, with Vidarbha stamping their authority in the final over to secure the win. This victory highlights the growing depth of talent in Indian domestic cricket beyond traditional powerhouses like Mumbai or Karnataka. The performance of several Vidarbha youngsters is expected to put them on the radar for IPL and national team selections.
Exam Angle: Important for sports-related questions in State PSCs and Banking exams. Know the nature of the Vijay Hazare Trophy (List-A, 50-over format).
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/section/sports/
Kalinga Lancers Remain Unbeaten in Hockey India League
Summary: The Kalinga Lancers continued their dominant run with a shootout victory over Tamil Nadu Dragons.
On January 18, 2026, the Kalinga Lancers maintained their position at the top of the Hockey India League (HIL) table by defeating the Tamil Nadu Dragons. The match ended in a draw during regulation time, but the Lancers secured a shootout bonus point to remain unbeaten in the tournament. The HIL, which has seen a resurgence in popularity, serves as a vital platform for Indian hockey players to compete with international stars. The Lancers’ consistent performance has made them the favorites to lift the title this season, showcasing the strength of hockey development in Odisha.
Exam Angle: Relevant for sports news in competitive exams. Note the structure of HIL and the role of Odisha in promoting Indian hockey.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/section/sports/
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
NGT Issues 24×7 Water Supply Mandate for Madhya Pradesh Cities
Summary: The National Green Tribunal has directed urban bodies in MP to adopt digital monitoring for water security.
On January 18, 2026, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) issued a comprehensive set of directions to the Madhya Pradesh government to ensure safe and potable drinking water for urban populations. The tribunal ordered municipal bodies to roll out a “24×7 water supply app” to track supply and curb leakages. This directive follows reports of significant water wastage and contaminated supplies in several districts. The NGT also emphasized the protection of local water bodies and directed a freeze on certain summer construction activities that deplete groundwater. These measures are part of the tribunal’s stricter stance on urban environmental compliance and water security.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Environment and Water Management). Focus on the powers of the NGT and the Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban).
Source: Down To Earth – https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/
Supreme Court Scrutinizes Aravalli Definition Amid Conservation Conflict
Summary: A legal dispute over the definition of the Aravalli range has raised concerns about mining and forest protection.
Reports on January 18, 2026, detailed an ongoing legal battle in the Supreme Court regarding the definition of the Aravalli hills. The dispute centers on whether a “100-plus metre” elevation definition should be used to identify protected forests. Environmentalists argue that a narrow legal definition could leave vast tracts of the Aravallis open for mining and real estate development. Former forest officers have warned that if the Aravallis lose their forest cover, the ecological balance of the National Capital Region (NCR) could be irreversibly damaged, leading to increased desertification and dust storms. The court’s decision will be pivotal in reconciling development needs with environmental conservation.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper I (Geography) and GS Paper III (Conservation). Understand the significance of the Aravallis as a barrier against the Thar desert.
Source: Down To Earth – https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/
Severe Smog Hits Delhi: AQI Slips to ‘Severe’ Category at 418
Summary: Cold wave conditions and low wind speed have trapped pollutants over the national capital.
On January 18, 2026, Delhi’s air quality deteriorated sharply, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 418, placing it in the “Severe” category. Authorities reported that dense smog reduced visibility to less than 50 meters in several areas, affecting flight and train schedules. The primary causes cited were the fall in temperature and stagnant wind conditions that prevented the dispersal of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is considering the implementation of GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage IV measures, which include a ban on non-essential construction and the entry of heavy trucks into the city.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Environmental Pollution). Note the different stages of GRAP and the health impacts of severe AQI levels.
Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/
7. OTHERS
Republic Day 2026 to Feature ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalion
Summary: For the first time, the Indian Army will showcase its newly-raised light commando unit during the parade.
The Ministry of Defence announced on January 18, 2026, that the upcoming Republic Day parade will feature a “phased battle array format.” A key highlight will be the debut of the ‘Bhairav’ light commando battalion, a specialized unit raised for rapid response in varied terrains. The parade will also showcase indigenous platforms like the Tejas Mk2 and the Zorawar light tank in the sequence they would appear during actual combat. This shift in format aims to move away from a mere display of hardware to a demonstration of integrated combat capability. The inclusion of the 61 Cavalry, the world’s only active horse-mounted cavalry regiment, will maintain the traditional link to India’s military history.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper III (Internal Security/Defence). Focus on modernization of the Indian Army and indigenous defence platforms.
Source: Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-18-2026-news-headlines-10480324/
Indian-Origin Banker Ajay Banga Named to Gaza Peace Board
Summary: World Bank President Ajay Banga has been selected as a key member of the international board for Gaza’s redevelopment.
On January 18, 2026, reports highlighted the inclusion of World Bank President and Padma Shri awardee Ajay Banga in the proposed “Board of Peace” for Gaza. US President Trump’s selection of Banga underscores the importance of financial and reconstruction expertise in the post-war plan. Banga’s role is expected to involve coordinating international funding and ensuring transparent financial governance during the transitional phase in Gaza. His appointment is seen as a nod to his successful track record in global finance and his ability to bridge the gap between Western and Global South interests.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper II (International Organizations) and Appointments. Note Ajay Banga’s role as the head of the World Bank and his contributions to global development.
Source: Times of India – https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gaza-plan-trump-invites-india-to-be-part-of-board-of-peace-what-is-it/articleshow/126649312.cms
Kaziranga National Park Honored as the “Soul of Assam” by PM
Summary: During his visit, the Prime Minister highlighted the park’s UNESCO status and its role in India’s biodiversity.
On January 18, 2026, in Kaliabor, PM Modi described Kaziranga National Park as a “priceless jewel” and the “soul of Assam.” He recalled the words of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika while emphasizing the Assamese people’s deep bond with nature. The PM credited the state government for successfully stopping rhino poaching and freeing encroached forest lands. He reiterated that protecting Kaziranga is not just about environmental conservation but a responsibility toward future generations. The recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site was highlighted to emphasize its global significance and the need for balanced development in the region.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper I (Culture/Geography) and GS Paper III (Environment). Note the flora/fauna of Kaziranga, specifically the One-horned Rhinoceros.
Source: Press Information Bureau – https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2215841
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)
1. National & State Governance
- Kaziranga Elevated Corridor: ₹6,950 crore, 86-km elevated highway in Kaliabor, Assam to prevent wildlife-vehicle collisions.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of Infrastructure Development, Wildlife Protection, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Maharashtra Municipal Elections 2026: BJP emerged as the largest party in Mumbai’s BMC, signaling a shift in urban governance.
- Significance: Relevant for understanding Local Governance, 74th Constitutional Amendment, and electoral trends.
- Karnataka Excise Scam Allegation: ₹2,500 crore bribery allegation against Karnataka’s Excise Department; opposition demands minister’s resignation.
- Significance: Important for Ethics in Governance, Lokayukta mechanism, and state-level accountability.
- NCC Republic Day Camp 2026: Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth addressed cadets at Delhi Cantt, emphasizing Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
- Significance: Youth Empowerment, National Integration, and role of NCC in nation-building.
- Republic Day Parade 2026: Will feature ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalion and indigenous defence platforms like Tejas Mk2.
- Significance: Defence Modernization, Indigenous Manufacturing (Aatmanirbharta), and military capability demonstration.
2. Economy & Finance
- India’s Startup Ecosystem: Crossed 2,00,000 recognized startups in 2026, up from 800 in 2016.
- Significance: Economic Growth indicators, role of DPIIT, Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), and entrepreneurship development.
- EPFO UPI Withdrawals: UPI-based withdrawals with ₹25,000 transaction cap to be launched by April 2026.
- Significance: Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Financial Inclusion, and Social Security modernization.
- Private Capex Concerns: Weak private investment threatens 7.4% GDP growth target due to “crowding out effect.”
- Significance: Macroeconomic concepts – Crowding Out Effect, Capital Expenditure, Fiscal Deficit, and growth sustainability.
- India-New Zealand FTA: Expected to boost bilateral trade through removal of non-tariff barriers.
- Significance: Trade Agreements (FTA vs CEPA vs PTA), export diversification, and trade policy.
3. International Relations & Defence
- Gaza Board of Peace: US President Trump invited India to join international oversight board for Gaza reconstruction; Ajay Banga (World Bank President) also named.
- Significance: India’s West Asia Policy, Two-State Solution stance, and role in global governance.
- US-Europe Tariff War: US imposed 10% tariffs on 8 European nations over Greenland dispute, to escalate to 25% by June 1.
- Significance: Global Trade Dynamics, Tariff Wars, Arctic geopolitics, and impact on Indian economy.
- Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: First sleeper variant between Guwahati (Kamakhya) and Howrah to begin January 22, 2026.
- Significance: Railway Modernization, North-East connectivity, and infrastructure development.
4. Science, Environment & Sports
- NGT Water Supply Directive: Madhya Pradesh ordered to implement 24×7 water supply app and curb leakages.
- Significance: Powers of NGT, Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban), water resource management, and environmental compliance.
- Aravalli Conservation Dispute: Supreme Court examining legal definition of Aravalli range amid mining vs conservation conflict.
- Significance: Environmental Conservation, ecological role of Aravallis in preventing desertification, and forest protection laws.
- Delhi Air Quality Crisis: AQI reached 418 (Severe category) on January 18, 2026, GRAP Stage IV under consideration.
- Significance: Air Pollution, GRAP stages, PM2.5 and PM10 levels, and urban environmental challenges.
- Afghanistan Earthquake: Magnitude 4.0 earthquake in Hindu Kush region at 10 km depth on January 18, 2026.
- Significance: Physical Geography – Tectonic plates (Indian-Eurasian collision), Seismic zones, and Disaster Management.
- New Zealand’s Historic ODI Win: First-ever ODI series victory in India (2-1); Virat Kohli scored 59th List-A century.
- Significance: Sports achievements, cricket milestones, and preparations for 2027 World Cup.
- Vidarbha’s Vijay Hazare Trophy Win: First-ever title; now holds Ranji Trophy, Irani Cup, and Vijay Hazare Trophy.
- Significance: Domestic cricket structure, List-A format, and talent development beyond traditional powerhouses.
- Kalinga Lancers Unbeaten: Topped Hockey India League table with shootout victory over Tamil Nadu Dragons.
- Significance: Hockey development in Odisha, HIL structure, and sports promotion initiatives.
Would you like me to create a set of 10 practice Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) based on this digest?
