Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: January 28, 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)
- India-EU FTA: Negotiations successfully concluded; historic pact to be implemented by late 2026.
- Republic Day Guests: European Council President António Costa and EC President Ursula von der Leyen hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
- India Energy Week: Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri inaugurated the dedicated “Hydrogen Zone” in Goa.
- RBI-ESMA MoU: New agreement signed to facilitate cooperation on Central Counterparties (CCPs).
- Budget 2026: All-party meeting convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju in New Delhi.
- U-19 World Cup: India thrashed Zimbabwe by 204 runs in the Super Six opener in Bulawayo.
- Forest Conservation: MoEF&CC amended rules allowing commercial plantations on forest land without levies.
- Banking Strike: Nationwide strike by bank unions over the demand for a 5-day work week.
- Tennis: India’s Yuki Bhambri reached the Pre-Quarterfinals of the Australian Open men’s doubles.
- Obituary: Former BCCI President Inderjit Singh Bindra passed away.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Goa Hosts India Energy Week 2026: Hydrogen Zone Inaugurated
Summary: Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launched the Hydrogen Zone at the 4th India Energy Week in Goa to spotlight low-carbon transitions.
On January 27, 2026, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri inaugurated the “Hydrogen Zone” at India Energy Week in Goa. This dedicated pavilion, hosted by Oil India, showcases advancements in hydrogen production, storage, and utilization. The event brought together over 75,000 professionals and 700 companies from 120 countries to discuss energy security and sustainability. The zone aims to demonstrate how hydrogen can decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors like steel and fertilizers, positioning India as a global hub for green hydrogen.
For competitive exams, this is significant under infrastructure and environment categories. It relates to the National Green Hydrogen Mission and India’s “Panchamrit” goals for net-zero emissions by 2070. The choice of Goa as the venue for IEW 2026 highlights the state’s growing role in international energy diplomacy.
Source: Press Information Bureau
Jammu & Kashmir Commences Trials for Khelo India Tribal Games
Summary: J&K Sports Council started open selection trials on January 27 to form the state contingent for the upcoming national tribal games.
The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council launched Phase-I of the Open Selection Trials on January 27, 2026. These trials are designed to identify and select talented athletes from the Union Territory for the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, which are scheduled to be held in Chhattisgarh. The selection process focuses on traditional and modern sports, ensuring representation from the tribal communities of the region. This initiative is part of the broader central government push to integrate remote and tribal youth into the mainstream sporting ecosystem.
For aspirants, this falls under “Schemes and Initiatives” and “Sports.” It highlights the government’s efforts toward inclusive sports development. Understanding the Khelo India framework and its various sub-components like the Tribal Games or University Games is essential for Prelims-level questions on sports governance in India.
Source: DD News On Air
Gujarat Government Appoints Sandeep Kumar as Director of GMDC
Summary: Senior IAS officer Sandeep Kumar was appointed as a Director on the board of the state-owned Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation.
In an official notification on January 27, 2026, the Gujarat government appointed Shri Sandeep Kumar, an IAS officer with over 20 years of experience, as a Non-Executive Director on the board of Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC). He replaces Ms. Arti Kanwar. Kumar currently serves as the Secretary (Economic Affairs) in the state’s Finance Department. This strategic appointment is intended to align GMDC’s mineral extraction operations with the state’s broader financial and economic planning objectives, particularly in the energy and land revenue sectors.
For exams, this is relevant for “Appointments” and “State PSUs.” Knowing the role of major state-owned enterprises like GMDC in India’s mineral security is important. Aspirants should note how bureaucratic reshuffles in PSUs often reflect changes in state economic policy priorities.
Source: PSU Connect
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Government Convenes All-Party Meet Ahead of Budget Session 2026
Summary: Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met floor leaders on January 27 to discuss the legislative agenda for the upcoming session.
On January 27, 2026, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju convened an all-party meeting at the Parliament House Annexe in New Delhi. The meeting served as a precursor to the Budget Session, which commences on January 28 with President Droupadi Murmu’s address to a joint sitting. The government discussed the list of nine pending bills, including the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill and the Securities Markets Code. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, notably a Sunday.
This is a core topic for UPSC and State PSC exams under “Polity.” Understanding parliamentary conventions, the significance of the President’s Address (Article 87), and the process of the Motion of Thanks is vital. The timing of the Budget on a Sunday also marks a rare departure from recent scheduling norms.
Source: The Hindu
Nationwide Bank Strike Disrupts Operations over Five-Day Work Week
Summary: Public sector bank employees launched a strike on January 27, demanding a 5-day work week and parity with other financial institutions.
The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), an umbrella body of nine unions, proceeded with a nationwide strike on January 27, 2026. The strike followed failed conciliation talks with the Chief Labour Commissioner and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA). Employees are demanding that all Saturdays be declared holidays, similar to the RBI and LIC. Unions have offered to work an extra 40 minutes daily to compensate for the lost man-hours. While private sector giants like HDFC and ICICI remained largely unaffected, public sector banking across the country saw significant disruptions.
For competitive exams, this relates to “Labour Laws” and “Banking Sector Reforms.” Aspirants should be aware of the UFBU and the bipartite settlement process between the IBA and unions. The move highlights the evolving debate over work-life balance and productivity in the Indian service sector.
Source: Economic Times
President Murmu Hosts EU Leaders on Republic Day Eve
Summary: President Droupadi Murmu received European Council and Commission Presidents at Rashtrapati Bhavan, marking a milestone in India-EU ties.
On the evening of January 27, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet for H.E. António Costa (President of the European Council) and H.E. Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission). This marks the first time the European Union as an entity has been the Chief Guest for India’s Republic Day. During the meeting, the President emphasized shared values of democracy and pluralism. Discussions highlighted the conclusion of the Security and Defence Partnership and the roadmap for the India-EU Strategic Partnership, focusing on clean energy and climate finance.
This event is highly significant for “International Relations.” The presence of EU leadership as Republic Day guests signals a shift in India’s strategic focus toward Brussels. For exams, remember the names of the leaders and the historical “first” of the EU’s participation in this capacity.
Source: Press Information Bureau
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and EU Conclude Historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
Summary: After decades of talks, India and the European Union successfully concluded negotiations for a comprehensive trade deal on January 27.
On January 27, 2026, India and the European Union (EU) announced the successful conclusion of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the pact, described as a “living agreement,” will be implemented within the calendar year 2026. The deal provides India access to the EU market for over 99% of its exports and includes mechanisms to manage regulatory complexities and technology changes. The agreement also encompasses a Security and Defence Partnership, opening new avenues for joint manufacturing in the defense sector.
This is a landmark development for “Economy” and “International Relations.” It is the “mother of all deals” for India, given that the EU is one of its largest trading partners. Aspirants should focus on the impact on labor-intensive sectors like textiles and the reduction of tariffs on European wines and machinery.
Source: Business Standard
RBI and ESMA Sign MoU for Information Sharing on Counterparties
Summary: The Reserve Bank of India and the European Securities and Markets Authority signed a pact on January 27 to facilitate financial stability.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 27, 2026. This agreement establishes a framework for cooperation and information exchange regarding Central Counterparties (CCPs) regulated by the RBI. Crucially, the MoU allows the Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL) to reapply for recognition under the European Market Infrastructure Regulation. This follows two years of engagement and is a major step toward restoring access for EU clearing members to Indian financial markets.
In the exam context, this falls under “Banking and Economy.” Understanding the role of CCPs and why international recognition is necessary for cross-border financial transactions is key. The deal resolves a long-standing friction point between Indian and European financial regulators.
Source: DD News On Air
India-Sudan Bilateral Meet at India Energy Week
Summary: Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri held talks with his Sudanese counterpart on January 27 to discuss oil exploration and energy ties.
On the sidelines of India Energy Week in Goa, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri held a bilateral meeting with Mr. Elmutasim Ibrahim Ahmed Ali, the Minister of Energy and Petroleum of Sudan, on January 27, 2026. The discussions focused on strengthening energy cooperation, particularly in the oil and gas sector. India has significant historical investments in Sudan’s energy infrastructure through ONGC Videsh. The meeting aimed to explore new opportunities for Indian companies in African energy markets amidst shifting global supply chains and the need for energy security.
For competitive exams, this highlights India’s “Energy Diplomacy” and its engagement with the Global South. Understanding India’s footprint in African energy sectors is relevant for Mains questions on foreign policy and resource security.
Source: United News of India
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI Updates Money Market: Overnight Volumes Hit ₹7.20 Lakh Crore
Summary: RBI data released on January 27 showed robust liquidity demand with the weighted average overnight rate standing at 5.15%.
According to data released by the Reserve Bank of India on January 27, 2026, the Indian money market witnessed a total turnover of ₹7.20 lakh crore in the overnight segment. The weighted average overnight rate was recorded at 5.15%. Triparty repo transactions dominated the market, accounting for ₹5.19 lakh crore. The RBI also conducted liquidity absorption operations, with banks parking over ₹1.50 lakh crore in the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF). Despite these absorptions, the overall system liquidity reflected a marginal net deficit, leading the RBI to inject funds via variable-rate repo operations.
This is a technical but essential topic for “Banking and Economy” exams. Familiarity with terms like SDF (Standing Deposit Facility), Triparty Repo, and “Weighted Average Call Rate” (WACR) is necessary for understanding RBI’s monetary policy transmission.
Source: PSU Connect
Marico Reports 12% Rise in Q3 Net Profit to ₹447 Crore
Summary: FMCG major Marico announced its third-quarter results on January 27, showing steady growth despite inflationary pressures.
Marico Limited, one of India’s leading consumer goods companies, reported its Q3 FY26 financial results on January 27, 2026. The company posted a 12% increase in consolidated net profit, reaching ₹447 crore. Revenue from operations also saw a significant jump of 27% compared to the same period last year. The growth was driven by strong performance in the domestic core portfolio and sustained momentum in international markets. The company noted that while raw material costs remained volatile, improved operational efficiencies helped maintain margins.
For aspirants, this provides a pulse on the “FMCG Sector” and domestic consumption patterns. Corporate performance of major entities like Marico serves as a lead indicator for rural and urban demand trends in the Indian economy.
Source: Business Standard
European Wines to Get Cheaper Under New India-EU Trade Pact
Summary: The newly concluded FTA will lead to a phased reduction of import duties on European wines and spirits in India.
Following the conclusion of the India-EU FTA on January 27, 2026, commerce ministry officials confirmed that high tariffs on European wines and spirits will be significantly reduced. Currently, India imposes a basic customs duty of 150% on imported wines. Under the new agreement, these duties will be lowered in a phased manner over several years. In return, Indian agricultural and processed food exports will gain easier access to the European market through the removal of non-tariff barriers. This move is expected to boost the hospitality sector and offer more choices to Indian consumers.
This is a specific “Trade Policy” update. It is relevant for understanding how FTAs balance domestic protectionism with market access. The reduction of duties on luxury goods is often a key demand from developed economies in trade negotiations with India.
Source: Business Standard
5. SPORTS
India U-19 Crushes Zimbabwe by 204 Runs in World Cup Super Six
Summary: Vihaan Malhotra’s unbeaten century led India to a dominant victory in their Super Six opener in Bulawayo on January 27.
At the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026, the defending champions, India, registered a massive 204-run win over hosts Zimbabwe on January 27. Batting first at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, India posted a total of over 300, anchored by Vihaan Malhotra’s brilliant 109 not out. In response, Zimbabwe was bowled out for 148 in 37.4 overs. Indian bowlers Udhav Mohan and Ayush Mhatre were the stars with the ball, picking up three wickets each. This win significantly boosts India’s chances of reaching the semi-finals.
For competitive exams, keep track of major ICC tournaments and Indian captains/star performers. The U-19 World Cup is a frequent source of “Sports” questions, particularly regarding player-of-the-match awards and tournament venues.
Source: Indian Express
Yuki Bhambri Reaches Pre-Quarterfinals of Australian Open 2026
Summary: India’s Yuki Bhambri and partner Andre Göransson advanced to the Round of 16 in Melbourne on January 27.
In a boost for Indian tennis, Yuki Bhambri and his Swedish partner Andre Göransson moved into the pre-quarterfinals of the men’s doubles at the Australian Open on January 27, 2026. The duo displayed clinical coordination to overcome their opponents in straight sets. Meanwhile, the tournament in Melbourne faced disruptions as outdoor matches were suspended due to extreme heat, forcing officials to close the roofs on the main arenas. Bhambri remains one of the few Indian representatives left in the first Grand Slam of the year.
Tennis achievements by Indians, especially in Grand Slams, are high-priority for “Sports” sections. Note the partner’s name and the specific round reached, as these details are common in SSC and Banking exams.
Source: DD News On Air
India Leads T20 Series 3-0 After Crushing Win over New Zealand
Summary: The Indian senior men’s team secured the T20 series against New Zealand with an eight-wicket victory in Guwahati.
Late on the night of January 26 and reported widely on January 27, 2026, India defeated New Zealand by eight wickets in the third T20 International at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. The victory gave India an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. The Indian bowlers restricted New Zealand to a modest total, which the top order chased down with ease. The match was highlighted by a stellar opening partnership and disciplined death bowling.
For exams, sports series results and venues (like Barsapara Stadium) are relevant. Knowing the current captains and coaches of the national teams is also expected.
Source: DD News On Air
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
MoEF&CC Amends Forest Rules to Allow Private Plantations
Summary: New amendments notified by the Environment Ministry on January 27 permit commercial plantations on forest land without ecological levies.
On January 27, 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) implemented an amendment to the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam (formerly the Forest Conservation Act). The new rules allow private entities to undertake commercial plantations on forest land without paying the Net Present Value (NPV) or Compensatory Afforestation (CA) charges. This move is aimed at supporting the domestic paper and pulp industry, which has been facing wood shortages. The amendment reclassifies assisted natural regeneration and plantations as “forestry activities,” exempting them from strict non-forest land diversion rules.
This is a critical “Environment” topic. Aspirants should understand the controversy: while it boosts the economy, environmentalists warn it could lead to the monoculture of species like Eucalyptus and Casuarina at the cost of biodiversity. NPV and the Forest Conservation Act are frequent UPSC topics.
Source: Down To Earth
UNEP Report Warns of Nature-Negative Global Finance Trends
Summary: The “State of Finance for Nature 2026” report reveals that global funding for activities harmful to nature exceeds ecosystem protection by 30:1.
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) released its “State of Finance for Nature 2026” report on January 27. The findings are stark: global finance harmful to nature reached $7.3 trillion, while investment in nature-based solutions (NbS) was only $220 billion. The report warns that this 30:1 ratio is fueling a “triple planetary crisis” of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. It calls for an urgent redirection of subsidies from fossil fuels and heavy industry toward conservation to meet the 2030 global targets.
This is essential for “Science and Environment” and “International Reports.” UN reports and their key findings (like the 30:1 ratio) are standard questions in Mains (Environment/Geography) and Prelims.
Source: Down To Earth
WhatsApp Rolls Out ‘Strict Account Settings’ for Enhanced Security
Summary: The messaging giant introduced a new high-security feature on January 27 to protect Indian users from unauthorized account takeovers.
On January 27, 2026, WhatsApp announced the global rollout of a new feature called “Strict Account Settings.” This security layer is designed to prevent “sim-swapping” and unauthorized account transfers by requiring multi-factor authentication and device-level verification before an account can be moved to a new phone. The move comes as part of the company’s efforts to combat the rising tide of digital fraud in India, its largest market. The feature also allows users to lock specific settings with biometric data.
For exams, this relates to “Cybersecurity” and “Technology Policy.” Understanding the mechanisms of digital fraud and the technological solutions being implemented is part of the “Digital India” and “Internal Security” syllabi.
Source: Indian Express
7. OTHERS
Former BCCI President Inderjit Singh Bindra Passes Away
Summary: The veteran cricket administrator, who played a key role in hosting the 1987 and 1996 World Cups, died at age 82.
Inderjit Singh Bindra, former President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), passed away on January 27, 2026. Bindra was a towering figure in Indian cricket administration and served as the BCCI chief from 1993 to 1996. He is widely credited with bringing the Cricket World Cup to the Indian subcontinent in 1987 and 1996, breaking the English monopoly on the tournament. He also served as the President of the Punjab Cricket Association for nearly three decades and was a key advisor during the inception of the IPL.
“Obituaries” of nationally significant figures are common in competitive exams. Bindra’s contribution to the commercialization and global stature of Indian cricket makes him a notable figure in sports history.
Source: DD News On Air
Andrew Yule & Co. Appoints Kulbhushan Malhotra as Director
Summary: The Ministry of Heavy Industries appointed senior bureaucrat Kulbhushan Malhotra to the board of the PSU Andrew Yule & Co. Ltd.
On January 27, 2026, the public sector undertaking Andrew Yule & Co. Ltd. announced the appointment of Shri Kulbhushan Malhotra as a Part-time Official Director (Government Nominee). Malhotra, a seasoned bureaucrat with 34 years of experience, currently serves as a Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Heavy Industries. His appointment follows SEBI compliance regulations and aims to bring his extensive experience in policy implementation and financial administration to the legacy PSU, which operates in engineering, electrical, and tea sectors.
This is relevant for “Appointments.” Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) often see such government nominee appointments to ensure administrative oversight. Knowing the parent ministry (Ministry of Heavy Industries) is important for MCQ-based exams.
Source: PSU Connect
Beating Retreat Rehearsals Held at Vijay Chowk
Summary: Tri-service personnel conducted the full dress rehearsal for the Beating Retreat ceremony in New Delhi on January 27.
On January 27, 2026, Indian Defence tri-service personnel conducted the full dress rehearsal for the “Beating Retreat” ceremony at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi. This ceremony, held every year on January 29, marks the formal end of the Republic Day celebrations. The rehearsal featured military bands playing a mix of Indian classical and martial tunes, alongside the traditional “Abide With Me” and patriotic favorites like “Sare Jahan Se Achha.” The event involves the descent of the National Flag at sunset against the backdrop of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
For exams, “Culture” and “National Symbols” are key. The history of the Beating Retreat (traceable to 17th-century England but adapted by Major Roberts in India) and its significance in concluding R-Day celebrations are important facts.
Source: United News of India
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)
1. National & State Governance
- All-Party Meeting (Budget Session 2026): Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju convened meeting on January 27.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of Parliamentary Procedures and Article 87 (President’s Address).
- Republic Day Chief Guest 2026: EU leaders António Costa (European Council President) and Ursula von der Leyen (European Commission President) hosted – first time EU as entity was Chief Guest.
- Significance: Major IR milestone; tests knowledge of India-EU Strategic Partnership.
- Jammu & Kashmir Sports Initiative: Open Selection Trials for Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 commenced on January 27.
- Significance: Government schemes for tribal welfare and inclusive sports development.
- Gujarat PSU Appointment: Sandeep Kumar appointed as Director of GMDC (Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation).
- Significance: State PSU governance and mineral security frameworks.
2. Economy & Finance
- India-EU FTA Concluded: Historic Free Trade Agreement finalized on January 27, 2026; implementation expected by late 2026.
- Significance: Largest trade deal for India; access to EU market for 99% of exports; includes Security and Defence Partnership.
- RBI-ESMA MoU: Agreement signed on January 27 for cooperation on Central Counterparties (CCPs).
- Significance: Financial stability and cross-border regulatory cooperation; enables CCIL recognition under EU regulations.
- Money Market Update: Overnight volumes at ₹7.20 lakh crore; weighted average rate at 5.15%.
- Significance: Understanding RBI’s liquidity management tools (SDF, Triparty Repo, WACR).
- Banking Strike: UFBU-led nationwide strike on January 27 demanding 5-day work week.
- Significance: Labour relations in banking sector; IBA-union bipartite settlement process.
- Marico Q3 Results: Net profit up 12% to ₹447 crore; revenue jumped 27%.
- Significance: FMCG sector performance indicator for rural and urban consumption trends.
- Wine Import Tariffs: India-EU FTA to reduce customs duty on European wines from 150% in phased manner.
- Significance: Trade policy balancing; tariff reduction on luxury goods in FTA negotiations.
3. International Relations & Defence
- India-Sudan Energy Talks: Bilateral meeting between Hardeep Singh Puri and Sudanese Energy Minister at India Energy Week, Goa.
- Significance: India’s energy diplomacy in Africa; ONGC Videsh’s role in energy security.
4. Science, Environment & Sports
- Hydrogen Zone at India Energy Week: Inaugurated by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in Goa on January 27.
- Significance: National Green Hydrogen Mission; Panchamrit goals; net-zero emissions by 2070.
- Forest Conservation Amendment: MoEF&CC allowed commercial plantations on forest land without NPV/CA charges.
- Significance: Controversial environmental policy; Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam; biodiversity vs. economy debate.
- UNEP Report: “State of Finance for Nature 2026” reveals 30:1 ratio (harmful finance $7.3 trillion vs. nature-based solutions $220 billion).
- Significance: Triple planetary crisis; important for Environment/International Reports sections.
- WhatsApp Security Feature: “Strict Account Settings” launched to prevent SIM-swapping and unauthorized account transfers.
- Significance: Cybersecurity and Digital India; protection against digital fraud.
- India U-19 Cricket: Defeated Zimbabwe by 204 runs in Super Six; Vihaan Malhotra scored 109*.
- Significance: ICC U-19 World Cup 2026; venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo.
- Yuki Bhambri Tennis: Reached Pre-Quarterfinals (Round of 16) at Australian Open 2026 men’s doubles with Andre Göransson.
- Significance: Indian achievement in Grand Slam tournaments.
- India T20 Cricket: Led series 3-0 vs. New Zealand after 8-wicket win at Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati.
- Significance: Current team performance; knowledge of venues and series results.
5. Obituaries & Appointments
- Inderjit Singh Bindra: Former BCCI President (1993-1996) passed away on January 27; key role in hosting 1987 and 1996 Cricket World Cups.
- Significance: Indian cricket administration history; IPL inception.
- Kulbhushan Malhotra: Appointed as Part-time Official Director at Andrew Yule & Co. Ltd. by Ministry of Heavy Industries.
- Significance: PSU governance; government nominee appointments.
6. Culture & National Symbols
- Beating Retreat Rehearsal: Full dress rehearsal conducted at Vijay Chowk on January 27 for January 29 ceremony.
- Significance: Marks formal end of Republic Day celebrations; historical significance and ceremonial traditions.
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