Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: January 30, 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)
- Economic Survey 2025-26: Tabled in Parliament; projects GDP growth at 6.8%–7.2% for FY27.
- Supreme Court Stay: The 2026 UGC Equity Regulations were stayed due to an “exclusionary” definition of caste discrimination.
- State Honour: Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar cremated with full state honours in Baramati after a tragic aircraft crash.
- International Diplomacy: India-EU Free Trade Agreement hailed by PM Modi as a “pact for an ambitious India.”
- Environment: Economic Survey suggests congestion pricing for major Indian cities to curb traffic and emissions.
- Geopolitics: Russia invites Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Moscow for peace talks.
- Sports Achievement: Paul Stirling (Ireland) becomes the most-capped Men’s T20I player, surpassing Rohit Sharma.
- WPL 2026: RCB crushes UP Warriorz by 8 wickets to storm into the WPL final.
- Monetary Policy: RBI injected ₹1.89 lakh crore durable liquidity in FY26 to support economic requirements.
- Ganga Expressway: FASTag toll trials successfully completed, bringing the project closer to its public opening.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Maharashtra Bids Farewell to Deputy CM Ajit Pawar with State Honours
Summary: Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was cremated with full state honours in Baramati following his death in a plane crash.
On January 29, 2026, the last rites of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar were performed with full state honours at the Vidya Pratishthan ground in Baramati, Pune. The 66-year-old leader passed away following a tragic aircraft crash, an event that led the Indian Air Force to deploy ATC and meteorological teams at the site for investigation. The funeral was attended by top national leaders, including Union Ministers Amit Shah and Nitin Gadkari, and former Union Minister Sharad Pawar. Thousands of supporters gathered to pay their final respects to the leader popularly known as “Ajitdada.”
This event marks a significant shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape, specifically concerning the guardian ministership and leadership of the NCP. For competitive exams, students should note the protocol for state funerals and the constitutional provisions regarding vacancies in the state council of ministers. The incident also highlights aviation safety protocols for VVIP movement in India.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-on-january-29-2026/article70565841.ece
Ganga Expressway Nears Completion with Successful FASTag Toll Trials
Summary: Uttar Pradesh’s longest expressway enters final phase after successful tolling trials on January 29.
The much-anticipated Ganga Expressway in Uttar Pradesh reached a critical milestone on January 29, 2026, with the successful completion of FASTag toll trials. Developed by the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA), this 594-km long project is set to become the longest expressway in the state, connecting Meerut in the west to Prayagraj in the east. The successful trial indicates that the infrastructure is nearly ready for public traffic, significantly reducing travel time across the state.
The project is a centerpiece of Uttar Pradesh’s infrastructure drive, aimed at boosting industrial corridors and regional connectivity. For aspirants, the Ganga Expressway is a key topic under “Infrastructure and Regional Development.” Understanding the role of UPEIDA and the technical aspects of FASTag (RFID technology) used in tolling is essential for SSC and State PSC exams. The expressway traverses 12 districts, making it a vital artery for the state’s economy.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-29-2026-news-headlines-10500556/
West Bengal Records 9.86% Growth in Net State Domestic Product
Summary: Economic data released on January 29 shows West Bengal’s NSDP growing at 9.86%, trailing neighboring states.
Official data released on January 29, 2026, revealed that West Bengal’s Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) grew by 9.86% during the 2024-25 fiscal year. While the growth is positive, the report noted that the state has trailed behind some of its neighbors in terms of percentage growth at current prices. The data, highlighted amidst the broader national Economic Survey discussions, underscores the varying recovery speeds of regional economies in the post-pandemic era and the challenges in maintaining industrial momentum.
For UPSC and State PSC aspirants, this data is crucial for analyzing regional economic disparities and the fiscal health of eastern Indian states. It provides a comparative framework to study the “State of the Economy” at a sub-national level. Understanding NSDP versus GSDP and the factors affecting growth in the manufacturing and service sectors in West Bengal is relevant for Mains-level questions on balanced regional development.
Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Supreme Court Stays 2026 UGC Equity Regulations Over Discrimination Definition
Summary: Apex Court puts 2026 UGC regulations in abeyance on January 29, citing exclusionary caste definitions.
On January 29, 2026, a Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi stayed the implementation of the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026. The court issued notices to the Centre and the UGC following petitions that argued the new rules were discriminatory. The petitioners claimed the definition of “caste-based discrimination” was “non-inclusionary” as it focused only on SC, ST, and OBC communities, effectively denying protection to general category students who might also face harassment.
The Court remarked that “India’s unity must reflect in its educational institutions” and warned against creating “segregated schools.” Until further notice, the 2012 UGC regulations will remain in effect. For UPSC aspirants, this is a landmark development regarding Article 14 (Equality) and Article 15 (Prohibition of discrimination) of the Constitution. It highlights the judiciary’s role in reviewing delegated legislation and ensures that equity measures do not inadvertently lead to further exclusion in higher education.
Source: Economic Times
URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/ugc-rules-stayed-by-supreme-court-setback-for-govt-relief-for-protesters/articleshow/127764080.cms
PM Modi Hails India-EU FTA as a Step Toward “Ambitious India”
Summary: Prime Minister addresses Parliament on January 29, urging industry to utilize the new India-EU trade deal.
Speaking at the Parliament House complex on January 29, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union as a monumental step for an “Ambitious India.” He noted that the deal provides Indian manufacturers duty-free access to a $27 trillion market, which accounts for over 25% of global GDP. The PM urged the domestic industry to enhance manufacturing quality to compete globally. This address coincided with the start of the second day of the Budget Session and the tabling of the Economic Survey.
The India-EU FTA is a significant pivot in India’s trade policy, especially as major Western economies embrace protectionism. For competitive exams, this is a vital topic in “International Relations” and “Economy.” Aspirants should focus on the “Trade and Technology Council” (TTC) and the specific sectors—like textiles, leather, and machinery—that stand to gain. The deal is also seen as a strategic move to diversify supply chains away from over-dependence on a single geography.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/union-budget-2026-27-parliament-session-live-updates-president-murmu-parliament-address-economic-survey-10498426/
Supreme Court Reserves Verdict on Stray Dog Menace Management
Summary: Bench led by Justice Vikram Nath finishes hearing pleas on stray dog management on January 29.
The Supreme Court of India, on January 29, 2026, reserved its verdict on a series of petitions seeking modifications to earlier orders regarding the management of stray dogs. A bench consisting of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria heard arguments from amicus curiae Gaurav Agarwal, who detailed the steps taken by states like Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. The case centers on balancing animal rights with the public safety concerns arising from the increasing number of stray dog attacks across Indian cities.
This case is legally significant as it touches upon the “Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960” and the “Animal Birth Control Rules.” For aspirants, it serves as a case study on “Judicial Activism” and the conflict between statutory rules and public interest. The final judgment will likely set the national standard for municipal bodies on how to handle stray animal populations without violating animal welfare laws, a recurring topic in “Social Issues” and “Governance.”
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-on-january-29-2026/article70565841.ece
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Russia Invites Ukraine’s Zelenskyy to Moscow for Landmark Peace Talks
Summary: In a major diplomatic shift on January 29, Russia extends an invitation for direct peace negotiations.
In a development that could reshape global geopolitics, Russia on January 29, 2026, officially invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Moscow for peace talks. This move comes after years of conflict and marks the first time such a direct invitation has been issued by the Kremlin during the current crisis. The global community is closely monitoring the situation, as a potential de-escalation would have massive implications for global energy prices, food security, and international trade routes that have been disrupted since 2022.
For UPSC aspirants, this is a “Critical Global Event” with direct relevance to India’s “Strategic Autonomy” policy. Any peace process in Eurasia affects India’s defense supplies and its “International North-South Transport Corridor” (INSTC) ambitions. Students should study the history of the conflict and the role of international mediators like the UN and G20 in facilitating such dialogues. This development also ties into India’s consistent stance that “this is not an era of war.”
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-29-2026-news-headlines-10500556/
Venezuela Signs Law to Privatize Oil Sector, Reversing Decades of Policy
Summary: Acting President Delcy Rodriguez signs energy overhaul on January 29 to lure foreign investment.
On January 29, 2026, Venezuela’s government approved and signed into law a major overhaul of the nation’s energy industry, allowing for the privatization of the oil sector. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez signed the reform after the National Assembly approved the legislation. This move effectively reverses a long-standing tenet of the country’s socialist movement that kept oil under strict state control. Simultaneously, the U.S. Treasury Department began easing sanctions on Venezuelan oil, facilitating the return of U.S. energy majors to the South American nation.
This shift is crucial for global energy markets as Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves. For Indian aspirants, this matters because India is one of the largest consumers of crude oil and has historically sought to diversify its energy imports. The reopening of the Venezuelan market could lead to more stable oil prices and new opportunities for Indian public sector undertakings (PSUs) like ONGC Videsh.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/venezuelas-acting-president-signs-oil-industry-overhaul-easing-state-control-to-lure-investors/article70568672.ece
India Monitors Reports of Minority Attacks in Bangladesh; Issues Raised in Rajya Sabha
Summary: Government informs Rajya Sabha on January 29 of continued monitoring of minority safety in Bangladesh.
The Government of India informed the Rajya Sabha on January 29, 2026, that it is closely monitoring reports of attacks against minorities in Bangladesh, including incidents targeting homes and places of worship. New Delhi stated that it has “consistently raised” these concerns with the authorities in Dhaka. This disclosure comes amid a period of strained political relations between the neighbors, which recently saw Bangladesh’s cricket team refusing to tour India due to safety concerns, leading to their replacement by Scotland in the T20 World Cup.
For competitive exams, this news highlights India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the complexities of cross-border cultural and social ties. It is a key topic for “Internal Security” and “International Relations” (India-Bangladesh ties). Aspirants should be aware of the “Indo-Bangla Friendship Treaty” and the mechanisms through which India addresses the grievances of the Indian diaspora and related minority groups in neighboring countries.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-on-january-29-2026/article70565841.ece
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
Economic Survey 2025-26 Projects FY27 GDP Growth at 6.8%–7.2%
Summary: Chief Economic Advisor V. Anantha Nageswaran tables the Survey on January 29, showing domestic resilience.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey 2025-26 in Parliament on January 29, 2026. Authored by CEA V. Anantha Nageswaran, the Survey projects India’s GDP growth to be between 6.8% and 7.2% for the fiscal year starting April 2026. While this is a slight moderation from the current year’s 7.4% projection, the Survey upgraded India’s medium-term potential growth outlook to 7%. It described the Indian economy as a “Reform Express” moving steadily despite a “grim” global outlook, where there is a 10-20% chance of a global crisis worse than 2008.
This document is the single most important source for “Indian Economy” questions in UPSC and Banking exams. Key highlights include the focus on “Inclusive Development,” MSME growth, and the shift towards an entrepreneurial bureaucracy. The Survey also noted that net FDI flows remain weaker than desired due to profit-taking by investors. Aspirants must study the “Three Probabilistic Scenarios”—managed disorder, sharper trade-offs, and systemic shocks—mentioned in the report.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB)
URL: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2220442
Silver Prices Breach $120 Mark Amid Global Geopolitical Tensions
Summary: Historic milestone on January 29 as silver sees a 298% increase over twelve months.
On January 29, 2026, global commodity markets witnessed a historic surge as silver prices breached $120.45 per ounce. This represents a staggering 298% increase over the past year. The rally is attributed to a “perfect storm” of U.S.-Iran military tensions, a weakening U.S. dollar, and aggressive central bank accumulation of precious metals. Gold also climbed toward the $5,600 mark. Analysts noted that the gold-to-silver ratio has collapsed to 45:1, its narrowest spread since 2011, signaling a fundamental shift in how silver is valued as both an industrial and investment asset.
For finance and banking exam aspirants, this highlights “Commodity Market Volatility” and the impact of geopolitics on asset classes. Understanding the “Gold-to-Silver Ratio” and the role of silver in “Green Tech” (solar panels, EVs) is vital. The surge also impacts India’s trade deficit, as India is a major importer of silver for its jewelry and industrial sectors.
Source: Economic Times
URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/silver-price-hits-120-today-jan-29-is-a-silver-crash-near-why-some-analysts-warn-of-bubble-like-dynamics/articleshow/127779477.cms
RBI Injects ₹1.89 Lakh Crore Liquidity to Support Productive Economy
Summary: Economic Survey on January 29 highlights RBI’s agile liquidity management during FY26.
The Economic Survey 2025-26, released on January 29, 2026, highlighted the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) robust liquidity management. It revealed that the RBI injected a durable liquidity surplus of approximately ₹1.89 lakh crore on average during FY26 (up to January 8) through Open Market Operations (OMO) and CRR cuts. This proactive approach ensured that the banking system had adequate funds to meet the economy’s productive requirements, with broad money growth rising to over 12% from 9% a year ago.
This is a core topic for RBI Grade B and Banking aspirants. It demonstrates the “Expansionary Monetary Policy” stance mentioned in the survey. Key terms to remember for exams include “Liquidity Adjustment Facility” (LAF), “Monetary Policy Transmission,” and the “Regulatory Review Cell,” which has been tasked with examining financial regulations every five to seven years. The Survey emphasizes that these measures have successfully lowered weighted average lending rates.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB)
URL: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2219997
5. SPORTS
RCB Storms into WPL Final with 8-Wicket Win Over UP Warriorz
Summary: Captain Smriti Mandhana and Nadine de Klerk lead RCB to victory on January 29 in Bengaluru.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their spot in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 final with a dominant 8-wicket victory over UP Warriorz on January 29, 2026. Playing in front of a home crowd, RCB’s Nadine de Klerk led the bowling attack with figures of 4 for 22, restricting UPW to a modest 143/8. In response, Australian star Grace Harris unleashed a blistering 75 off just 37 balls, allowing RCB to chase the target with 41 balls to spare. The win confirms RCB’s top-of-the-table finish with 12 points.
The WPL has become a major event in the global sporting calendar, and RCB’s performance highlights the growing competitiveness of Indian franchise cricket. For exams, keeping track of “Tournament Winners,” “Player of the Match” in finals, and “Purple/Orange Cap” holders is standard for SSC and State PSC sports sections. This victory also underscores Smriti Mandhana’s leadership in a high-pressure environment.
Source: Times of India
URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/wpl/rcb-crush-up-warriorz-by-eight-wickets-to-storm-into-wpl-final/articleshow/127782644.cms
Paul Stirling Surpasses Rohit Sharma as Most Capped Men’s T20I Player
Summary: Ireland captain sets a new world record on January 29 during the T20I against UAE in Dubai.
Ireland captain Paul Stirling made history on January 29, 2026, by becoming the most-capped player in Men’s T20 International history. During the first T20I against the UAE at the Dubai Cricket Stadium, Stirling played his 160th match, moving past India’s Rohit Sharma (159 caps). Although Stirling was dismissed early in the game, his milestone was the highlight of a match that Ireland won by 57 runs as part of their preparation for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka next month.
This record is a significant fact for sports-related questions in competitive exams. Stirling’s longevity in the shortest format of the game is a testament to Ireland’s rising stature in world cricket. Aspirants should also note the venues and hosts for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, as India remains a central hub for major ICC events.
Source: Cricket Ireland
URL: https://www.cricketireland.ie/news/article/paul-stirling-becomes-most-capped-mens-t20i-player
Bangladesh Shooting Team Approved for India Tour Despite Cricket Refusal
Summary: Diplomatic sports breakthrough on January 29 as Dhaka clears shooting team for Asian Championships.
In a surprising diplomatic turn on January 29, 2026, the Bangladesh government approved its national shooting team’s tour to New Delhi for next month’s Asian Shooting Championships. This decision comes just days after the Bangladesh cricket team refused to play in India due to safety concerns, a move that cost them their place in the T20 World Cup (replaced by Scotland). The approval of the shooting team suggests a possible softening of the “sports boycott” stance and a separation of specific sports disciplines from broader political tensions.
For “International Relations” and “Sports Governance” sections, this event illustrates how sports are often used as a tool for “Soft Power” and diplomacy. The participation of international teams in Indian venues is crucial for India’s reputation as a safe and capable host for global events. It also highlights the role of national sports federations in navigating bilateral friction.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-on-january-29-2026/article70565841.ece
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Economic Survey Recommends Congestion Pricing for Major Indian Cities
Summary: Policy document released on January 29 suggests Singapore-style pricing to cut urban emissions.
The Economic Survey 2025-26, tabled on January 29, 2026, has recommended the introduction of “Congestion Pricing” in India’s most densely populated business districts. Drawing on successful models from London and Singapore, the Survey argues that charging private vehicles for entering high-traffic zones during peak hours will reduce emissions, ease traffic, and improve overall urban mobility. The policy document emphasizes that Indian cities currently operate in silos and need integrated planning to meet climate goals.
This recommendation is highly relevant for “Urbanization” and “Environment” topics in UPSC Mains. Aspirants should be familiar with the “Polluter Pays Principle” and how congestion pricing serves as a “Market-Based Instrument” for environmental conservation. The Survey also notes that domestic climate finance currently accounts for 83% of mitigation and 98% of adaptation funding, highlighting the need for innovative revenue streams like these.
Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/urbanisation/economic-survey-2025-26-suggests-congestion-pricing-for-dense-business-districts
India Makes Significant Progress in Building Domestic Carbon Market
Summary: January 29 Survey highlights pro-rata Greenhouse Gas Intensity targets for four key sectors.
According to the Economic Survey released on January 29, 2026, India has made major strides in establishing its domestic Carbon Market framework. The government has notified pro-rata Greenhouse Gas Emission Intensity (GEI) targets for four major industrial sectors: Aluminium, Cement, Chlor-Alkali, and Pulp and Paper. This framework is designed to incentivize industries to reduce their carbon footprint by allowing them to trade carbon credits. The Survey highlights that while India leads in many climate initiatives, domestic finance alone will not suffice for long-term targets.
For Science and Environment exams, this is a “Core Concept” update. Aspirants should understand the “Carbon Credit Trading Scheme” (CCTS) and how it aligns with India’s “Nationally Determined Contributions” (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. The focus on specific energy-intensive sectors (Hard-to-Abate sectors) is a key detail for questions on industrial policy and climate change.
Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy
NGT Directs Action on Waste Management in Kainchi Dham, Uttarakhand
Summary: Tribunal orders strictly regulated construction and sewage management in a 2km radius on January 29.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on January 29, 2026, issued a series of directives to the Uttarakhand government regarding the environmental sanctity of Kainchi Dham in Nainital. Following reports of pollution in the Shipra river and inadequate waste management due to high tourist footfall, the NGT directed the District Development Authority to regulate construction within a 2 km radius. The tribunal also ordered the immediate establishment of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and adequate public toilets to prevent industrial and commercial effluent from entering the river.
This news is important for the “Environment” and “Governance” sections. It reflects the judiciary’s role in “Sustainable Tourism” and “River Conservation.” For State PSC and UPSC, this serves as a case study on the “Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016” and the challenges of infrastructure development in ecologically sensitive Himalayan regions. The declaration of the “Development Area” around the shrine is a specific administrative detail to note.
Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/governance/daily-court-digest-major-environment-orders-january-28-2026
7. OTHERS
Saurabh Joshi Elected Mayor of Chandigarh; New Deputy Mayors Appointed
Summary: Local body election results announced on January 29 bring new leadership to the UT.
In the mayoral elections held on January 29, 2026, Saurabh Joshi was elected as the Mayor of Chandigarh. The elections also saw Jasmanpreet Singh and Suman Sharma being elected as the Senior Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayor, respectively. The election process was closely watched as a bellwether for local political sentiment in the Union Territory. The new leadership has expressed its intent to focus on “Smart City” initiatives and improving waste management rules, which were recently flagged for needing stricter enforcement.
For competitive exams, local body elections in Union Territories are significant under the “Polity” section, specifically covering the “74th Constitutional Amendment Act” and the administrative structure of UTs without legislatures. Understanding the role of the Mayor and the municipal corporation’s powers in urban planning is essential for students preparing for administrative roles.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-29-2026-news-headlines-10500556/
Jharkhand Health Dept Clears Chaibasa Hospital in Alleged HIV Contraction Case
Summary: Official probe report released on January 29 clears hospital of negligence in C-section case.
On January 29, 2026, the Jharkhand Health Department officially cleared a hospital in Chaibasa of allegations regarding a family contracting HIV during a Caesarean procedure. The West Singhbhum district’s Civil Surgeon disclosed the findings, stating that the hospital followed all safety protocols. However, the authorities noted that a separate probe into five children with thalassemia contracting HIV after blood transfusions is still ongoing, and those results have not been made public due to the sensitivity of the case.
This news item highlights “Public Health Governance” and “Medical Ethics.” For aspirants, it is a reminder of the “National AIDS Control Programme” (NACP) and the stringent requirements for blood bank safety in India. It also touches upon the accountability of state health departments and the legal framework for medical negligence.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-29-2026-news-headlines-10500556/
Jharkhand HC Rules Desertion is Abandonment of Marital Obligation, Not Just Physical Home
Summary: Landmark matrimonial judgment delivered on January 29 clarifies the definition of desertion.
The Jharkhand High Court, while dismissing a divorce plea on January 29, 2026, provided a significant interpretation of “desertion.” The court ruled that desertion is not merely the act of leaving a “physical home” but constitutes the total “abandoning of a marital obligation.” The judgment emphasizes that temporary physical separation does not automatically qualify as legal grounds for divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act unless there is a clear intent to end the marital relationship permanently.
This judgment is an important addition to “Family Law” and “Social Issues” for UPSC and Judiciary exams. It clarifies the “animus deserendi” (intention to desert) required to prove desertion. For aspirants, understanding how the High Courts interpret social legislations is crucial for Mains-level questions on the evolution of personal laws in India.
Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-29-2026-news-headlines-10500556/
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)
1. National & State Governance
- Supreme Court Stay on UGC Equity Regulations 2026: Stayed by SC bench led by CJI Surya Kant for “exclusionary” definition of caste discrimination.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of Article 14 (Equality), Article 15 (Prohibition of Discrimination), and judicial review of delegated legislation.
- Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar: Cremated with full state honours in Baramati after aircraft crash on January 29, 2026.
- Significance: Protocol for state funerals, constitutional provisions for vacancies in state council of ministers, VVIP aviation safety.
- Ganga Expressway (Uttar Pradesh): FASTag toll trials completed successfully; 594-km expressway connecting Meerut to Prayagraj nears public opening.
- Significance: Infrastructure development, UPEIDA’s role, RFID technology in tolling, regional connectivity across 12 districts.
- West Bengal NSDP Growth: Net State Domestic Product grew at 9.86% in FY 2024-25.
- Significance: Regional economic disparities, fiscal health of eastern states, NSDP vs GSDP understanding.
- Chandigarh Mayoral Elections: Saurabh Joshi elected Mayor; Jasmanpreet Singh (Senior Deputy Mayor) and Suman Sharma (Deputy Mayor) also elected.
- Significance: 74th Constitutional Amendment, administrative structure of Union Territories without legislatures, local governance.
- Supreme Court on Stray Dog Management: Verdict reserved on January 29, 2026, by bench led by Justice Vikram Nath.
- Significance: Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960, Animal Birth Control Rules, judicial activism, balancing animal rights with public safety.
- Jharkhand High Court on Desertion: Ruled that desertion means abandonment of marital obligation, not just physical separation.
- Significance: Family law, Hindu Marriage Act interpretation, “animus deserendi” legal principle, social issues in personal laws.
2. Economy & Finance
- Economic Survey 2025-26: Tabled on January 29; projects FY27 GDP growth at 6.8%–7.2%, medium-term potential at 7%.
- Significance: Core document for economy section, focus on inclusive development, MSME growth, entrepreneurial bureaucracy, three probabilistic scenarios.
- India-EU Free Trade Agreement: PM Modi hailed it as step toward “Ambitious India”; provides duty-free access to $27 trillion market (25% of global GDP).
- Significance: International trade policy, Trade and Technology Council (TTC), key beneficiary sectors (textiles, leather, machinery), supply chain diversification.
- RBI Liquidity Injection: ₹1.89 lakh crore injected in FY26 through OMO and CRR cuts; broad money growth rose from 9% to 12%.
- Significance: Expansionary monetary policy, Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Monetary Policy Transmission, Regulatory Review Cell.
- Silver Price Surge: Breached $120.45 per ounce on January 29, representing 298% increase over 12 months.
- Significance: Commodity market volatility, gold-to-silver ratio (45:1), impact on India’s trade deficit, role in green technology.
3. International Relations & Defence
- Russia Invites Zelenskyy to Moscow: First direct invitation for peace talks issued on January 29, 2026.
- Significance: India’s Strategic Autonomy policy, impact on global energy prices and food security, International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
- Venezuela Oil Sector Privatization: Acting President Delcy Rodriguez signed law reversing decades of state control; U.S. easing sanctions.
- Significance: Global energy markets, Venezuela’s largest proven oil reserves, India’s crude oil import diversification, opportunities for ONGC Videsh.
- India Monitors Bangladesh Minority Attacks: Government informed Rajya Sabha of continued monitoring and diplomatic engagement with Dhaka.
- Significance: Neighbourhood First policy, India-Bangladesh relations, Indo-Bangla Friendship Treaty, internal security concerns.
- Bangladesh Shooting Team Approved for India Tour: Government approved participation in Asian Shooting Championships despite cricket team’s refusal.
- Significance: Sports diplomacy, soft power, separation of sports from broader political tensions.
4. Science, Environment & Sports
- Economic Survey Recommends Congestion Pricing: Suggests Singapore/London-style pricing for dense business districts to reduce emissions.
- Significance: Urbanization policy, Polluter Pays Principle, market-based environmental instruments, climate finance (83% mitigation, 98% adaptation domestic).
- India’s Domestic Carbon Market: Pro-rata GHG Emission Intensity targets notified for Aluminium, Cement, Chlor-Alkali, and Pulp & Paper sectors.
- Significance: Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Paris Agreement compliance, hard-to-abate sectors.
- NGT Directives for Kainchi Dham: Orders construction regulation within 2km radius, Sewage Treatment Plant, and waste management improvements.
- Significance: Sustainable tourism, river conservation, Solid Waste Management Rules 2016, ecologically sensitive Himalayan regions.
- Paul Stirling Record: Became most-capped Men’s T20I player with 160 matches, surpassing Rohit Sharma (159 caps) on January 29.
- Significance: International sporting achievements, T20 World Cup 2026 co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
- RCB in WPL Final: Defeated UP Warriorz by 8 wickets; Nadine de Klerk took 4/22, Grace Harris scored 75 off 37 balls.
- Significance: Women’s cricket franchise development, tournament format understanding, player performances for SSC/State PSC exams.
5. Public Health & Social Issues
- Jharkhand Hospital Cleared in HIV Case: Health Department cleared Chaibasa hospital of negligence allegations; separate thalassemia-related probe ongoing.
- Significance: Public health governance, National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), blood bank safety protocols, medical ethics framework.
📚 Stay consistent. Stay informed. Stay ahead.
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