Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: January 03, 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.

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TODAY’S TOP 10 RECALL POINTS (SNAPSHOT)

1. ECMS Expansion: MeitY approved 22 new proposals under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme with ₹41,863 crore investment.
2. Bullet Train Milestone: First mountain tunnel breakthrough (MT-5) achieved at Palghar, Maharashtra.
3. Rail Project Cost: Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project cost estimated to double to ₹1.98 lakh crore.
4. Manufacturing PMI: India’s factory activity slipped to a two-year low of 55 in December 2025.
5. Infrastructure Unlock: PRAGATI platform has cleared stalled projects worth over ₹9.5 lakh crore.
6. State Borrowing: RBI data projects states to borrow a record ₹5 lakh crore in Q4 FY26.
7. Tobacco Tax: New restructuring of GST on tobacco (Beedis at 18%, others at 40%) to take effect from February.
8. Diplomatic Warning: BJP/Government cautioned NYC Council Member Zohran Mamdani against interfering in India’s internal matters.
9. Hockey India League: Captains of 8 teams unveiled the HIL trophy in Chennai ahead of the Jan 3 kickoff.
10. Ecological Concern: Environmentalists raised alarms over felling of 6,000+ trees in Lucknow’s Kukrail Reserve Forest.

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1. STATE AFFAIRS

Indore Diarrhoea Outbreak Leads to High Court Intervention

Summary: Indore High Court orders clean water supply following 10 deaths from contamination.

On January 2, 2026, the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court took Suo Motu cognizance of a severe diarrhoea outbreak in the Bhagirathpura area of Indore. Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava confirmed that 10 lives, including infants, were lost due to the consumption of contaminated water. The court has directed the municipal corporation to ensure an immediate supply of potable water and submit a status report on the city’s drainage and water pipeline integrity. This incident has sparked a national debate on urban water security, with Rahul Gandhi criticizing the “double-engine” government for failing to protect the poor.

For competitive exams, this highlights the importance of the Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) and the constitutional right to clean water under Article 21. The crisis underscores the challenges in municipal governance and the critical need for regular audits of aging urban infrastructure to prevent public health disasters.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-january-2-2026/article70463893.ece

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Uttar Pradesh’s Kukrail Forest Project Faces Massive Ecological Backlash

Summary: Deforestation of 6,000 trees for eco-tourism in Lucknow sparks legal and environmental protests.

A major environmental controversy erupted on January 2, 2026, as details of the Uttar Pradesh government’s ₹1,500 crore Kukrail Reserve Forest redevelopment project were made public. The plan involves felling over 6,000 mature trees to build a night safari, 7D theatre, and an auditorium. Environmentalists, reporting via Down To Earth, noted that nearly 1,200 acres (30% of the forest) are being diverted for non-forest use. The project also includes shifting the 100-year-old Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden to this site.

This development is significant for aspirants as it touches upon the Forest Conservation Act and the “Doctrine of Public Trust.” While the government promotes it as “eco-tourism,” critics argue it destroys Lucknow’s last “green lung,” vital for carbon sequestration and regulating the local micro-climate. The case highlights the tension between urban infrastructure expansion and biodiversity conservation in rapidly growing Indian Tier-1 cities.

Source: Down To Earth
URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/forests/kukrail-reserve-forest-is-lucknows-last-green-lung-but-the-state-government-is-hell-bent-on-destroying-it

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Odisha’s Strategic Plan to Resolve Decades-Old Malkangiri Land Dispute

Summary: State government initiates a mediation framework to settle conflicts between tribals and settlers.

On January 2, 2026, the Odisha government announced a comprehensive administrative framework to resolve the long-standing land disputes in Malkangiri district between local tribal communities and Bengali settlers. The initiative aims to provide legal land titles (Patta) while ensuring the protection of tribal rights under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution. The dispute, which dates back to the rehabilitation of East Bengal refugees in the 1960s, has often led to localized tensions.

This move is crucial for State PSC aspirants as it exemplifies “Conflict Resolution” in governance and the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. By involving local Gram Sabhas in the verification process, the state aims to bring social harmony to a Maoist-affected region. The successful resolution could serve as a model for other states dealing with internal migration-related land conflicts and highlights the role of district administration in grassroots peace-building.

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/section/india/

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2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Major Breakthrough in Bullet Train Project’s First Mountain Tunnel

Summary: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announces completion of 1.5 km MT-5 tunnel in Palghar.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on January 2, 2026, that the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project achieved a milestone with the breakthrough of Mountain Tunnel-5 (MT-5) in Palghar, Maharashtra. This 1.5 km long tunnel is the first of seven mountain tunnels in the Maharashtra section to be completed. Excavated using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) over 18 months, the tunnel is located between Virar and Boisar.

This achievement is vital for the project, which aims to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to 1 hour 58 minutes. For UPSC aspirants, this highlights India’s growing engineering prowess in high-speed rail infrastructure and the strategic importance of the MAHSR corridor in the National Rail Plan 2030. The project is also expected to reduce carbon emissions by 95% compared to road travel, aligning with India’s Net Zero targets. The breakthrough signifies the transition from land acquisition hurdles to active physical construction.

Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2080000

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Election Commission Reports Low Voter Revision Participation in Urban India

Summary: ECI officials cite “urban apathy” as form collection in cities lags behind rural areas.

During the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls across 12 States and UTs, Election Commission (ECI) officials on January 2, 2026, flagged a concerning trend: enumeration form collection in urban areas is significantly lower than in rural counterparts. The ECI noted that constant migration and professional commitments are the primary reasons why urban voters are unavailable at home for booth-level officers (BLOs).

This “urban apathy” remains a major challenge for the commission as it seeks to ensure 100% voter registration accuracy before upcoming polls. For competitive exams, this news is relevant to “Electoral Reforms” and the “SVEEP” (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) program. It underscores the need for digital alternatives like the Voter Helpline App to bridge the gap in urban participation. The ECI is considering extending the deadline for urban pockets to ensure no eligible citizen is left out of the democratic process.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-january-2-2026/article70463893.ece

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BJP Rejects International Interference Over Jailed Activist Umar Khalid

Summary: Government cautions NYC Council Member Zohran Mamdani following his statement on the jailed activist.

On January 2, 2026, a significant diplomatic and political row broke out as the BJP and the Union Government rejected a statement by New York City Council Member Zohran Mamdani regarding jailed activist Umar Khalid. National spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia asserted that India’s sovereignty is non-negotiable and that external entities have no “locus standi” to comment on India’s internal judicial processes. The incident occurred after Mamdani’s statement on Khalid’s long incarceration went viral.

This development is crucial for General Studies papers on “International Relations” and “Internal Security,” as it reflects India’s hardening stance against what it perceives as foreign meddling in domestic affairs. It also touches upon the legal complexities of the UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) under which Khalid is held. The government’s firm response signals a consistent foreign policy posture of “strategic autonomy” and non-interference, often emphasized by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in global forums.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-january-2-2026/article70463893.ece

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3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India Reasserts “Right to Defend” Against Cross-Border Threats

Summary: Jaishankar warns of defensive action if “good neighbourliness” is absent in the region.

On January 2, 2026, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a stern warning regarding regional security, reiterating India’s “right to defend its people” in the absence of good neighbourly relations. While not naming any specific country, the context clearly pointed toward the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar emphasized that diplomacy cannot coexist with terror, a core pillar of India’s foreign policy under the current administration.

This statement is highly relevant for UPSC Mains (GS-II) concerning India’s Neighborhood First policy and its shift towards a “proactive” security doctrine. The timing is significant as it sets the tone for India’s engagement in multilateral forums in 2026. This “clear-eyed” diplomacy reflects India’s insistence on a terror-free environment as a prerequisite for any bilateral dialogue. Aspirants should note this as part of the “Strategic Defiance” model where India refuses to be coerced by traditional diplomatic pressures when national security is at stake.

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/section/india/

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England Reshuffles Squad for Final Ashes Test in Sydney

Summary: Shoaib Bashir and Matthew Potts called up as England seeks to end the series on a high.

In international cricket, England on January 2, 2026, announced the inclusion of spinner Shoaib Bashir and seamer Matthew Potts for the fifth and final Ashes Test against Australia, starting January 4 at the SCG. The move follows an injury to Gus Atkinson. While Australia has already retained the Ashes, the final test remains a high-stakes event for World Test Championship (WTC) points.

For aspirants, this news highlights the “World Test Championship” cycle and the significance of the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) as a traditionally spin-friendly venue. The inclusion of Bashir, a young spinner of South Asian heritage, also reflects the increasing diversity in global cricket. While the Ashes is a bilateral series, its outcome significantly impacts the ICC rankings and the morale of the competing nations. This reshuffle is a tactical response to the grueling nature of modern test cricket and the high frequency of injuries among fast bowlers.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/fifth-ashes-test-england-call-up-shoaib-bashir-and-matthew-potts-for-sydney-test/article70463260.ece

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India-Australia ECTA: Zero-Duty Access Becomes Fully Operational

Summary: Complete duty-free access for Indian exports to Australia starts January 1, 2026.

As of January 2, 2026, Indian exporters have begun utilizing the 100% zero-duty access to the Australian market under the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). This milestone, which officially kicked in on the first day of the new year, eliminates tariffs on over 6,000 sectors including textiles, leather, and gems & jewellery. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal noted that this represents a major win for India’s labour-intensive sectors.

For exams, this is a prime example of a “Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement” (CEPA) and its role in boosting “Make in India” for the world. Australia is a key partner in the Quad, and this economic integration strengthens the strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific. The agreement is expected to take bilateral trade past $50 billion in the next five years. It also provides a competitive edge to Indian MSMEs against rivals from other RCEP nations, providing a blueprint for future trade deals with the UK and EU.

Source: Economic Times
URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/trade-deals-manufacturing-and-tariffs-why-the-year-2026-can-be-a-big-deal-for-indias-economy/articleshow/126247611.cms

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4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

MeitY Approves ₹41,863 Crore Investments in Electronics Manufacturing

Summary: 22 new proposals under ECMS cleared to boost domestic supply chains and create 33,000 jobs.

On January 2, 2026, Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw approved 22 new proposals under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS). The projects involve a projected investment of ₹41,863 crore and are expected to generate production worth ₹2,58,152 crore. Key beneficiaries include Dixon, Samsung Display, Foxconn, and Hindalco. The approvals focus on 11 target segments, including PCBs, Li-ion cells, and camera modules, across eight states including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh.

For competitive exams, this is a critical update on the “Electronics Manufacturing Cluster” (EMC) scheme and the PLI ecosystem. The move aims to reduce India’s import dependence on critical electronic components, particularly from China, and move the country up the value chain from mere assembly to core component manufacturing. This “tranche 3” approval is expected to create 33,791 direct jobs, bolstering the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative in the high-tech sector and supporting the goal of a $300 billion electronics economy.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/government-okays-22-proposals-under-electronics-components-manufacturing-scheme/article70463219.ece

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Bullet Train Project Cost Doubles to Nearly ₹2 Lakh Crore

Summary: Railway Board CEO Satish Kumar cites land costs and delays for the revised estimate of ₹1.98 lakh crore.

The Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board, Satish Kumar, revealed on January 2, 2026, that the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project’s cost is set to nearly double from the initial estimate of ₹1.08 lakh crore to approximately ₹1.98 lakh crore. Speaking at the 50th PRAGATI meeting, Kumar attributed the surge to land acquisition hurdles, the pandemic, and the rising cost of sophisticated Japanese technology. Despite the cost escalation, the first stretch is targeted for an August 15, 2027 launch.

This news is essential for exams under “Infrastructure Finance” and “Public-Private Partnerships.” The funding gap is expected to be covered through additional low-interest loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and budgetary support. The cost-to-benefit analysis of such mega-infrastructure projects versus traditional rail upgrades remains a key topic for administrative service interviews. The disclosure highlights the fiscal challenges of mega-infrastructure projects in a developing economy.

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/business/india-bullet-train-project-cost-double-rs-2-lakh-crore-10452318/

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India’s Manufacturing PMI Hits Two-Year Low in December

Summary: Factory activity slips to 55 as new orders and output growth moderate at the end of 2025.

India’s manufacturing sector growth moderated to a 24-month low in December 2025, with the HSBC Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) falling to 55, down from higher levels earlier in the year. Data released on January 2, 2026, suggests that while the sector remains in expansion (above the 50-mark threshold), the pace has cooled due to softer demand and rising input costs. Manufacturers reported the slowest increase in new business since late 2023.

This data is a vital indicator for RBI’s upcoming monetary policy review and is a “must-know” for Banking and SSC exams. It reflects the broader economic trend where high interest rates and global slowdown are beginning to impact domestic production. Despite the dip, business confidence for 2026 remains positive, driven by government infrastructure spending. Aspirants should link this to the “Index of Industrial Production” (IIP) and its role in calculating the quarterly GDP growth rate.

Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news

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5. SPORTS

Captains Unveil Trophy Ahead of Hockey India League Kickoff

Summary: HIL returns to Chennai after years; captains of 8 teams emphasize talent scouting for the 2026 World Cup.

On January 2, 2026, the captains of the eight franchises in the revamped Hockey India League (HIL) gathered at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai to officially unveil the tournament trophy. Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh (JSW Soorma HC) and Manpreet Singh (Ranchi Royals) highlighted that the league, starting January 3, serves as the ultimate scouting ground for the 2026 FIH World Cup and Asian Games. The tournament will be played across Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar.

For sports-related current affairs, this marks the revival of India’s premier domestic hockey competition which had been defunct for years. The inclusion of young players from the recent Junior World Cup adds an “Exam Angle” regarding the development of the “bench strength” in Indian sports. The league’s structure, featuring both domestic stars and top international talent, aims to professionalize the sport further and attract commercial investment, mirroring the success of the IPL in cricket.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sport/hockey/the-hockey-india-league-is-a-perfect-platform-to-showcase-talent-say-the-captains/article70464351.ece

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Major 2026 Sports Calendar: India to Host T20 World Cup and BWF Championships

Summary: A packed year for Indian sports features the Men’s T20 World Cup starting February 7.

A comprehensive sports calendar released on January 2, 2026, confirms that India will be the epicentre of global sports this year. The 10th ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is the headline event, scheduled to begin on February 7, 2026. Additionally, New Delhi will host the BWF World Championships in August. Other major events include the Asian Weightlifting Championships in Ahmedabad (April) and the Mumbai Marathon.

For competitive exams, knowing these venues and dates is crucial for “Static GK” and “Current Events.” The T20 World Cup will feature 20 teams playing across five Indian venues. This massive hosting lineup reflects India’s growing ambition to host the 2036 Olympic Games. Aspirants should focus on the “Sporting Infrastructure” development in cities like Ahmedabad and Bhubaneswar, which are emerging as global sports hubs. The year 2026 is being touted as a “Golden Year” for Indian sports fans and athletes alike.

Source: Olympics.com
URL: https://olympics.com/en/news/sports-events-india-2026-tournaments-calendar-schedule

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Shoaib Bashir Named in England Squad for SCG Test

Summary: Spinner Bashir to play a key role as England battles injuries ahead of the final Ashes clash.

On January 2, 2026, the England cricket team confirmed the call-up of Shoaib Bashir for the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney. With the SCG pitch traditionally assisting spinners, Bashir is expected to lead the attack alongside Matthew Potts. This selection comes after Gus Atkinson was ruled out due to a hamstring injury.

For those tracking international cricket, this is significant as the Ashes is the oldest rivalry in the sport. Although Australia has retained the urn, England’s win in Melbourne has kept the series competitive. The inclusion of a specialist spinner like Bashir underscores the tactical shifts teams make based on venue geography—a common theme in “Physical Geography” and “Sports GK.” Bashir’s performance will be under scrutiny as England looks to build a team for the next WTC cycle. The match also marks the end of a high-profile series that has seen record viewership in both hemispheres.

Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/fifth-ashes-test-england-call-up-shoaib-bashir-and-matthew-potts-for-sydney-test/article70463260.ece

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6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

DRDO Marks 68th Foundation Day with Record Indigenisation Focus

Summary: Defence Minister reviews 2025 achievements including ₹1.30 lakh crore in AoN approvals.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated its 68th Foundation Day on January 2, 2026 (observed following the Jan 1 holiday). Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the organization’s performance, noting that 2025 saw the highest-ever “Acceptance of Necessity” (AoN) approvals worth ₹1.30 lakh crore for DRDO-developed systems. Key projects slated for 2026 induction include the Indian Light Tank (Zorawar), VSHORADS, and the Pralay surface-to-surface missile.

This is a vital update for UPSC GS-III (Internal Security & Science) and CDS/NDA exams. It highlights the shift from importing defence tech to “Design and Development” within India. The “AoN” is the first step in the defence procurement process, and the record value signifies a massive pipeline for Indian private industries and DPSUs. DRDO’s focus is now shifting towards next-gen domains like Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs), AI-driven surveillance, and hypersonic flight vehicles, marking a new era in India’s strategic deterrence.

Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://pib.gov.in/

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Centre Proposes 90-Day Work Rule for Gig Worker Social Security

Summary: New draft labor rules require 90 days of annual work to qualify for government benefits.

On January 2, 2026, the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment pre-published draft rules under the Code on Social Security. The new proposal mandates that gig and platform workers (such as those for Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber) must work for at least 90 days in a year to be eligible for the Social Security Fund. This fund will provide benefits like maternity leave, disability insurance, and old-age protection.

For aspirants, this is a major development in “Labour Reforms” and the “Social Sector.” The 90-day threshold is a mechanism to distinguish between “active” gig workers and “casual” participants. This policy change matters because India has one of the world’s largest gig workforces, estimated to grow to 23.5 million by 2030. The draft rules are now open for stakeholder feedback for 45 days. It represents a step toward formalizing the informal economy, a recurring theme in Indian economic policy discussions over the last decade.

Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news

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Study Warns of Rising “Photo Tourism” Threat to Rare Frogs

Summary: Seven species of the world’s rarest frogs in the Western Ghats face extinction due to human interference.

A scientific study published on January 2, 2026, and highlighted by environmental outlets, warns that “photo tourism” is driving rare amphibian species toward extinction. Specifically, seven species of rare frogs in India’s biodiversity hotspots are presumed extinct or critically endangered as tourists and amateur photographers disturb their fragile habitats for “perfect shots.” The rise of social-media-driven wildlife photography has led to habitat trampling and the introduction of pathogens.

For competitive exams, this news is relevant to “Biodiversity Conservation” and the “Western Ghats Ecology.” It highlights the negative externalities of unregulated eco-tourism and the need for stricter “Buffer Zone” management. The study calls for a ban on flash photography and human entry into core breeding grounds during the monsoon. This serves as a cautionary tale of how human recreational activities can inadvertently cause “silent extinctions” in specialized ecosystems.

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/section/india/

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7. OTHERS

Sreekumar G. Pillai Appointed as Director of IGCAR

Summary: Senior scientist takes charge of the premier nuclear research centre at Kalpakkam.

On January 2, 2026, Dr. Sreekumar G. Pillai was officially appointed as the Director of the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. IGCAR is a major constituent of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and is primarily involved in the development of Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) technology. Dr. Pillai, a veteran in nuclear engineering, succeeds the outgoing director at a crucial time when the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) is nearing its commercial commission.

This appointment is significant for “Persons in News” and “Science & Technology” sections of competitive exams. The FBR technology is the second stage of India’s three-stage nuclear power program, essential for utilizing India’s vast thorium reserves. Dr. Pillai’s leadership is expected to accelerate the “closed fuel cycle” capabilities, which are critical for India’s long-term energy security and carbon-neutral goals.

Source: Department of Atomic Energy
URL: https://www.dae.gov.in/

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Restructuring of Tobacco Taxation to Start from February 1

Summary: Beedis moved to 18% GST slab; other tobacco products to face 40% tax under new health policy.

The Union Finance Ministry on January 2, 2026, finalized the roadmap for a major restructuring of tobacco taxes. Starting February 1, the GST on Beedis will be shifted to the 18% slab, while other tobacco products like cigarettes and smokeless tobacco will move to a 40% slab. Additionally, a new cess under the “Health Security and National Security Act, 2025” will be enforced on pan masala units.

For aspirants, this news is vital for “Fiscal Policy” and “Public Health” governance. The move is designed to simplify the complex tax structure following the end of the GST Compensation Cess. The “policy logic” cited by the government is to discourage consumption while generating revenue for the National Health Mission. This represents a shift toward “sin taxation” based on health outcomes. Aspirants should note the dual impact: potential reduction in tobacco-related diseases and the challenge of preventing “down-trading” to cheaper, illicit products.

Source: Ministry of Finance
URL: https://finmin.nic.in/

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Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak Appointed Jharkhand HC Chief Justice

Summary: President Murmu signs the warrant for the new head of the Jharkhand judiciary.

On January 2, 2026, Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court. The appointment follows the recommendation of the Supreme Court collegium and was formally approved by the President of India. Justice Sonak previously served at the Bombay High Court and is known for several landmark judgments in civil and constitutional law.

For Judiciary and PSC aspirants, this is a key “Appointment” update. It also brings into focus the “Collegium System” and the procedure for appointing High Court judges under Article 217 of the Constitution. The Jharkhand High Court has been dealing with a high pendency of cases related to tribal land rights and mining disputes, making the new Chief Justice’s tenure strategically important for the state’s legal landscape. His appointment is part of a broader reshuffle to fill vacancies in various High Courts across the country.

Source: Indian Express
URL: https://indianexpress.com/section/india/

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QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: CORE RECALL POINTS

1. National & State Governance

• Indore Diarrhoea Outbreak: MP High Court orders clean water supply after 10 deaths in Bhagirathpura from contaminated water.
  • Significance: Tests knowledge of Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban), Article 21 (Right to Life), and municipal governance.
• Kukrail Reserve Forest Controversy: UP government plans to fell 6,000 trees for ₹1,500 crore eco-tourism project in Lucknow.
  • Significance: Relevant for Forest Conservation Act, Doctrine of Public Trust, and urban ecology vs. infrastructure debate.
• Odisha Malkangiri Land Dispute Resolution: State initiates framework to resolve tribal-settler land conflicts with legal land titles (Patta).
  • Significance: Fifth Schedule rights, Forest Rights Act 2006, and Gram Sabha role in conflict resolution.
• Urban Voter Apathy: ECI flags low voter revision participation in urban areas during Special Intensive Revision across 12 states/UTs.
  • Significance: Electoral reforms, SVEEP program, and Voter Helpline App for digital voter registration.
• Justice Sonak Appointed: Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak becomes Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court.
  • Significance: Article 217, Collegium System, and High Court appointment process.

2. Economy & Finance

• ECMS Investment Approval: MeitY approves 22 proposals under Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme worth ₹41,863 crore investment.
  • Significance: PLI scheme, Atmanirbhar Bharat, electronics manufacturing clusters, and job creation (33,791 direct jobs expected).
• Bullet Train Cost Escalation: Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project cost doubles to ₹1.98 lakh crore from ₹1.08 lakh crore.
  • Significance: Infrastructure finance, JICA loans, National Rail Plan 2030, and mega-project fiscal challenges.
• Manufacturing PMI Decline: India’s factory activity hits 24-month low at 55 in December 2025.
  • Significance: Economic indicators, RBI monetary policy, Index of Industrial Production (IIP), and GDP growth analysis.
• India-Australia ECTA Operational: 100% zero-duty access for Indian exports to Australia across 6,000+ sectors from January 1, 2026.
  • Significance: CEPA agreements, Make in India, Quad partnership, and Indo-Pacific trade strategy.
• Tobacco Tax Restructuring: GST on Beedis moves to 18%, other tobacco products to 40% from February 1, 2026.
  • Significance: Sin taxation, GST framework, public health policy, and fiscal revenue for National Health Mission.
• State Borrowing Record: RBI projects states to borrow record ₹5 lakh crore in Q4 FY26.
  • Significance: Fiscal federalism, state finances, and RBI’s role in government borrowing.

3. International Relations & Defence

• Jaishankar’s Security Warning: EAM reiterates India’s “right to defend” in absence of good neighbourliness, hints at cross-border terrorism concerns.
  • Significance: Neighborhood First policy, proactive security doctrine, and strategic autonomy in foreign policy.
• BJP Rejects Foreign Interference: Government cautions NYC Council Member Zohran Mamdani over statement on jailed activist Umar Khalid.
  • Significance: Sovereignty, UAPA provisions, international relations, and India’s stance on foreign meddling.
• DRDO Foundation Day: 68th Foundation Day celebrated with ₹1.30 lakh crore AoN approvals for indigenously developed defence systems.
  • Significance: Defence indigenization, AoN process, projects like Zorawar tank, VSHORADS, Pralay missile, and next-gen weapons (DEWs, hypersonics).

4. Science, Technology & Environment

• Bullet Train Tunnel Breakthrough: First mountain tunnel (MT-5, 1.5 km) completed at Palghar using New Austrian Tunnelling Method.
  • Significance: High-speed rail engineering, National Rail Plan 2030, and carbon emission reduction targets.
• Gig Worker Social Security: Centre proposes 90-day annual work rule for gig workers to qualify for Social Security Fund benefits.