Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: January 26, 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)

Padma Awards 2026: 131 awardees announced; includes 5 Padma Vibhushan and 13 Padma Bhushan.
India-EU Summit: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrives in Delhi for FTA talks.
National Voters’ Day: 16th edition celebrated; Theme: “My India, My Vote: Indian Citizen at the heart of Indian Democracy.”
Cricket Milestone: India records the fastest T20I chase of 150+ runs (10 overs) against New Zealand.
Mark Tully Passes Away: Veteran journalist and former BBC India Bureau Chief dies at age 90.
Political Shift: Tejashwi Yadav appointed as the Working President of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
Republic Day Eve: President Droupadi Murmu addresses the nation, focusing on ‘Nari Shakti’ and economic resilience.
Legal Transparency: SC issues directions for West Bengal’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Energy Security: India-Brazil to sign $780 million crude oil import deal at IEW 2026.
Consumer Inflation: Kerala records highest retail inflation in India at 9.49% for the seventh consecutive month.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Kerala Records Highest Retail Inflation in India at 9.49%

Summary: Kerala tops national inflation charts for the seventh consecutive month, driven by food and gold prices.

On January 25, 2026, economic data revealed that Kerala’s retail inflation surged to 9.49% in December 2025, the highest among all Indian states. This marks the seventh straight month the state has led the nation in price rises. The spike is primarily attributed to soaring prices of coconut oil, gold, and increased rural consumption costs. While the national average remains relatively stable, Kerala’s unique consumption patterns and dependence on imports from other states have exacerbated the fiscal pressure on households.

Exam Angle: Crucial for understanding regional economic disparities and the Consumer Price Index (CPI) impact. Students should note the role of state-specific commodities like coconut oil in driving regional inflation.

Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/gold-coconut-oil-and-consumption-inside-kerala-s-inflation-streak-126012500854_1.html

Tejashwi Yadav Named Working President of Rashtriya Janata Dal

Summary: RJD elevates Tejashwi Yadav to working president following recent Assembly election setbacks.

In a significant political reorganization on January 25, 2026, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) national executive committee appointed Tejashwi Yadav as the party’s Working President. The move comes as party patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav seeks to formalize the transition of leadership. At 36, Tejashwi’s elevation is seen as a strategy to consolidate the party’s base and modernize its grassroots outreach following the ‘Mahagathbandhan’s’ performance in the last Bihar polls. The decision was finalized at the party’s national executive meeting in Patna.

Exam Angle: Relevant for State PSCs and General Awareness on political leadership transitions in major regional parties.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/tejashwi-yadav-named-working-president-of-rjd/article70549593.ece

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam Chief Vijay Challenges Dravidian Dominance

Summary: Actor-politician Vijay declares a dual-front opposition against both DMK and AIADMK in Tamil Nadu.

On January 25, 2026, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and Tamil cinema icon Vijay made a strong political statement during a party meeting, asserting that neither “evil forces” nor “corrupt forces”—referring to the DMK and AIADMK—should rule Tamil Nadu. This signals a formal shift toward a three-way contest in the upcoming state elections. Vijay’s rhetoric focused on cultural protection and administrative transparency, aiming to capture the youth vote and the anti-incumbency sentiment traditionally split between the two major Dravidian parties.

Exam Angle: Important for understanding the evolving political landscape of Tamil Nadu and the emergence of new regional parties.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tvk-chief-vijay-says-neither-evil-force-nor-corrupt-force-should-rule-tn/article70549593.ece

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Padma Awards 2026: 131 Achievers Honored on Republic Day Eve

Summary: Government announces 131 Padma awards, highlighting “unsung heroes” and veteran film personalities.

The Union Government, on January 25, 2026, announced the Padma Awards for the year, conferring honors upon 131 individuals. The list includes 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awardees. Notable names include veteran actors Dharmendra and Mammootty, and former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan. A significant focus remained on “unsung heroes,” such as a former bus conductor who built a massive free library and a 90-year-old traditional musician. The awards recognize excellence across fields including social work, public affairs, and arts.

Exam Angle: A high-priority topic for all competitive exams. Aspirants must memorize the Padma Vibhushan winners and notable Padma Shri recipients in the “unsung” category.

Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2218450

President Droupadi Murmu Addresses Nation on 77th Republic Day Eve

Summary: President emphasizes ‘Nari Shakti’ and the democratic depth of the Indian electorate in her national address.

President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation on January 25, 2026, on the eve of India’s 77th Republic Day. In her speech, she highlighted the transformative potential of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, stating it would propel women-led development to new heights. She also praised the resilience of the Indian economy and the dedication of “hardworking brothers and sisters” in nation-building. The address, broadcast nationally, served as a prelude to the Kartavya Path celebrations, where India’s military might and cultural diversity were showcased.

Exam Angle: Important for descriptive papers and GS Paper II (Polity). Focus on themes like ‘Nari Shakti’ and constitutional values mentioned by the President.

Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2218448

India Celebrates 16th National Voters’ Day with Focus on Inclusivity

Summary: President Murmu graces the 16th National Voters’ Day; urges youth to strengthen democracy through registration.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) celebrated the 16th National Voters’ Day on January 25, 2026, with the theme “My India, My Vote: Indian Citizen at the heart of Indian Democracy.” President Droupadi Murmu, attending the main event in New Delhi, emphasized that the strength of democracy lies in the depth of the democratic spirit rather than just numbers. She commended the ECI’s “No Voter Left Behind” initiative, which has successfully integrated divyang (persons with disabilities) and remote-area voters into the electoral process. The day commemorates the foundation of the ECI in 1950.

Exam Angle: Direct question potential on the theme and date of National Voters’ Day. Relevant for the “Elections” section in Indian Polity.

Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2218444

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen Arrives for India-EU Summit

Summary: EU leaders land in Delhi to finalize the long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

On January 25, 2026, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President Antonio Costa arrived in New Delhi. They were received with a formal guard of honor, followed by a meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The visit is pivotal for the 16th India-EU Summit, where both sides are expected to conclude negotiations for a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that has been in discussion since 2007. The pact aims to deepen ties in security, defense, and mobility, providing a strategic alternative in a fractured global order.

Exam Angle: Significant for GS Paper II (International Relations). Focus on the components of the India-EU FTA and the “Strategic Partnership” pillars.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-and-eu-are-showing-a-fractured-world-another-way-to-engage-eu-chief-ursula-von-der-leyen/article70550265.ece

US National Defence Strategy 2026 Flags Shift in China Posture

Summary: The Trump administration’s NDS 2026 prioritizes “strength over confrontation” in the Indo-Pacific.

The Donald Trump administration released its National Defence Strategy (NDS) on January 25, 2026, signaling a major shift in US-China relations. The document emphasizes “deterring China in the Indo-Pacific through strength, not confrontation.” Notably, it avoids direct mention of Taiwan, instead focusing on the “Western hemisphere” and domestic security as primary priorities. This shift suggests a more transactional and less interventionist approach, which could significantly impact India’s regional security architecture and the Quad’s future operational focus.

Exam Angle: Critical for International Relations. Understand how the shift in US policy toward China affects India’s “Act East” policy and maritime security.

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-25-2026-news-headlines-10493211/

India and Brazil to Sign $780 Million Crude Oil Import Pact

Summary: Energy security bolstered as India pivots crude sourcing toward South America during IEW 2026.

As part of the upcoming India Energy Week (IEW) 2026, it was announced on January 25, 2026, that India will sign a $780 million crude oil import deal with Brazil. This move is part of India’s broader strategy to diversify its energy sources and reduce over-dependence on Middle Eastern and Russian oil. The agreement also includes contracts for ethane carrier construction, highlighting a growing partnership in energy logistics. Government officials stated that while Russian barrels remain part of the mix, South American imports provide essential long-term certainty for Indian refiners.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Economy and International Relations. Students should note the geographical shift in India’s energy diplomacy and the concept of “energy self-reliance.”

Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/iew-2026-to-see-780-million-crude-deal-with-brazil-shipbuilding-pact-126012500214_1.html

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

India Plans Sharp Cut in Car Import Tariffs for EU Manufacturers

Summary: Government proposes reducing car tariffs to 40% as part of the India-EU trade deal.

In a major move to seal the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, the Indian government on January 25, 2026, reportedly proposed slashing import tariffs on European cars to 40%. Currently, high-end imported vehicles face duties as high as 70-100%. This reduction signals India’s willingness to open its protected automotive sector in exchange for better market access for its textile and machinery exports. The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) noted that this alignment could significantly expand bilateral trade without immediately threatening domestic manufacturers who focus on different segments.

Exam Angle: Important for Economy and Trade Policy. Understand the impact of “Customs Duty” changes on domestic industries and the “Trade Facilitation” aspect of FTAs.

Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/govt-to-slash-tariffs-on-cars-to-40-in-trade-deal-with-eu-report-126012500642_1.html

Indian Rupee Hits Record Low of 92 against US Dollar

Summary: Rupee’s depreciation to 92/USD raises concerns over import costs and overseas education.

On January 25, 2026, the Indian Rupee (INR) touched a historic low of 92 against the US Dollar (USD). The slide is attributed to a strengthening dollar index and capital outflows from emerging markets. While the depreciation offers a slight edge to Indian exporters, it has spiked the cost of critical imports like crude oil and electronics. Analysts warned that this trend could fuel domestic inflation and increase the financial burden on Indian students pursuing education abroad. The RBI is expected to intervene to manage volatility ahead of the Union Budget.

Exam Angle: Vital for Economics. Focus on concepts like “Currency Depreciation vs Devaluation,” “Current Account Deficit (CAD),” and the role of the RBI in forex management.

Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/rupee-at-92-usd-imports-overseas-education-travel-hurt-exporters-gain-126012500287_1.html

Stock Markets to Conduct Live Trading on Sunday, February 1 for Budget

Summary: NSE and BSE to remain open on a Sunday to track the Union Budget 2026-27 presentation.

Market regulators and exchanges announced on January 25, 2026, that the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will conduct live trading sessions on Sunday, February 1, 2026. This rare Sunday session is scheduled to coincide with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s presentation of the Union Budget for 2026-27. The move is intended to allow investors to react in real-time to fiscal announcements. Meanwhile, markets will remain closed on Monday, January 26, in observance of Republic Day.

Exam Angle: Relevant for General Awareness and Banking. Note the unique occurrence of “Sunday Trading” in Indian market history.

Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/topics/budget-2026

5. SPORTS

India Records Fastest 150+ T20I Run Chase in History against NZ

Summary: Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav lead India to a record-breaking 10-over victory in Guwahati.

On January 25, 2026, the Indian cricket team scripted history at the Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati, by chasing down a target of 154 against New Zealand in just 10 overs. This is the fastest run chase of 150 or more by a full member nation in T20I history. Abhishek Sharma smashed a blistering 68 off 20 balls, while captain Suryakumar Yadav contributed an unbeaten 57 off 26. Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah’s 3/17 restricted the Kiwis. The win secured a 3-0 series whitewash for India, marking their ninth consecutive T20I series victory.

Exam Angle: Sports-related current affairs. Note the specific records: “Fastest 150+ chase” and “Abhishek Sharma’s 14-ball half-century.”

Source: NDTV Sports
URL: https://sports.ndtv.com/india-vs-new-zealand-2026/india-vs-new-zealand-live-score-3rd-t20i-new-zealand-tour-of-india-2026-guwahati-ind-vs-nz-scorecard-live-updates-suryakumar-yadav-10882293

Novak Djokovic Reaches Australian Open Quarterfinals via Walkover

Summary: Djokovic advances at Melbourne Park after Jakub Mensik withdraws due to injury.

In international tennis, Novak Djokovic secured a spot in the 2026 Australian Open quarterfinals on January 25, 2026, after his fourth-round opponent, Jakub Mensik, withdrew from the tournament. Mensik cited an abdominal injury, ending his promising run. Djokovic, chasing a record-extending Grand Slam title, had shown dominant form in the earlier rounds. This walkover gives the veteran extra rest days as the tournament enters its second week. The Australian Open remains a critical event for tracking global sporting achievements and rankings.

Exam Angle: Important for the “Sports” section of various exams. Keep track of Grand Slam winners and major records in tennis.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-on-january-25-2026/article70549593.ece

WPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Snap RCB’s Winning Streak with 7-Wicket Win

Summary: Delhi Capitals halt Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s perfect start in the Women’s Premier League.

On January 25, 2026, the Delhi Capitals (DC) delivered a clinical performance to defeat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by seven wickets in the ongoing Women’s Premier League (WPL). The victory was significant as it ended RCB’s unbeaten start to the season. DC’s bowlers restricted the Bengaluru side to a modest total, which was easily chased down by the Capitals’ top order. The WPL continues to be a major platform for domestic and international women cricketers, gaining massive viewership and commercial traction in its 2026 edition.

Exam Angle: Relevant for sports news focusing on women’s cricket and domestic leagues in India.

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/01/25/

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

Climate Change Accelerating Penguin Breeding Shifts in Antarctica

Summary: Research shows Antarctic penguin breeding patterns are shifting at “record speed” due to warming.

Scientific reports published on January 25, 2026, highlighted a disturbing trend in Antarctica where penguin breeding patterns are shifting faster than ever recorded. Climate change-induced melting of sea ice is forcing colonies to alter their nesting schedules, leading to a mismatch between chick hatching and the availability of primary food sources like krill. Researchers warned that this “phenological shift” could lead to a catastrophic decline in penguin populations if global temperatures are not stabilized. This study serves as a stark reminder of the fragile ecosystem in the polar regions.

Exam Angle: Crucial for Environment and Ecology. Understand the concept of “Phenological Mismatch” and the impact of climate change on biodiversity.

Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/breeding-patterns-among-antarctic-penguins-shifting-at-record-speed-due-to-climate-change-102345

Gobar Times Investigates Environmental Impact of Junk Food Consumption

Summary: A new report links rising junk food demand in India to increased plastic waste and carbon footprint.

On January 25, 2026, Gobar Times (an environmental magazine for youth) released an investigative piece connecting the rising consumption of ultra-processed “junk food” among Indian youth to broader environmental crises. The report details how the packaging industry for snacks contributes to massive non-biodegradable waste, while the industrial production of palm oil and additives drives deforestation. It also touches on the “health-environment nexus,” where poor dietary choices lead to both a rise in lifestyle diseases (like diabetes) and a heavier ecological footprint due to intensive food processing.

Exam Angle: Relevant for the “Sustainable Development” and “Health” sections. Good for essay topics on lifestyle and environment.

Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/food/gobar-times-beyond-the-bag-102456

Supreme Court Directs Removal of Manipur Violence Videos from Social Media

Summary: High Court and SC intervene to prevent the spread of sensitive content related to Manipur unrest.

In a move involving tech policy and internal security, the Supreme Court on January 25, 2026, asked the Central Government to ensure the removal of a specific video depicting the killing of a man in Manipur from all social media platforms. The court noted that such “viral” content could further inflame communal tensions and violate the privacy of the victim’s family. This highlights the ongoing challenge for the government and tech companies to balance free speech with the need to prevent “digital contagion” in conflict zones.

Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Internal Security/Cyber Security). Focus on the “IT Rules” and the government’s power to issue “takedown notices.”

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/01/25/

7. OTHERS

Veteran Journalist Mark Tully Passes Away in New Delhi at 90

Summary: Former BBC India Bureau Chief and chronicler of modern India, Sir Mark Tully, dies at 90.

Sir Mark Tully, the legendary journalist who served as the BBC’s India Bureau Chief for over two decades, passed away in New Delhi on January 25, 2026. Born in Calcutta, Tully was known for his deep understanding of Indian society and his coverage of major events, from the 1984 anti-Sikh riots to the demolition of the Babri Masjid. He was a recipient of the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. His death marks the end of an era in Indian journalism, as he was widely respected for his objective and empathetic reporting.

Exam Angle: High probability of an “Obituary” question. Note his major awards (Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan) and his long association with the BBC.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/veteran-journalist-mark-tully-passes-away-in-delhi-at-90/article70549593.ece

Supreme Court Issues Directions for West Bengal Electoral Roll Revision

Summary: SC bench focuses on transparency in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) following complaints of bias.

The Supreme Court, on January 25, 2026, issued a set of directions to ensure fairness in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. A bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna was hearing petitions alleging that the verification process was being used to arbitrarily delete names. The court directed that no name be deleted without a proper field visit and that the Election Commission must maintain a digital trail of all claims and objections. The move aims to protect the “sanctity of the ballot” ahead of upcoming regional polls.

Exam Angle: Important for Polity (Election Commission). Understand the process of “Electoral Roll Revision” and the SC’s role in protecting democratic rights.

Source: LawBeat
URL: https://lawbeat.in/legal-spotlight/supreme-court-weekly-round-up-january-19-25-2026-1559785

Delhi Government’s Private School Fee Regulation Act Supported by SC

Summary: Supreme Court observes it is “completely in favour” of Delhi’s legislation to regulate high school fees.

On January 25, 2026, the Supreme Court expressed strong support for the Delhi School Education (Transparency in Fixation and Regulation of Fees) Act, 2025. The bench noted that fees in private schools had reached “unprecedented heights,” making education inaccessible for many. While the court advised the government to ensure committees are properly constituted, it upheld the principle that education should not be purely commercial. This development is expected to set a precedent for other states seeking to curb the commercialization of the education sector.

Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper II (Social Justice/Education). Focus on the balance between “Right to Education” and “Autonomy of Private Institutions.”