Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: January 06, 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)

Supreme Court Bail Denial: Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam denied bail in the Delhi riots conspiracy case; 5 others granted relief.
Khelo India Beach Games: 2nd edition inaugurated at Ghoghla Beach, Diu, by J&K LG Manoj Sinha.
Somnath 1000-Year Milestone: PM Modi shares an Op-Ed marking 1000 years of the first attack on Somnath Temple (1026-2026).
Payments Regulatory Board: RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra chairs the first meeting of the newly constituted PRB in Mumbai.
India-Iran Advisory: MEA urges citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran due to widespread inflation protests.
Aravalli Risk: Conservation groups report 31.8% of Aravalli Range is at risk due to new 100-meter height classification rules.
Delhi Govt-RBI MoU: Delhi government signs a pact with RBI to raise infrastructure funds from the open market for the first time.
Assam Earthquake: A 5.1-magnitude earthquake strikes Morigaon district; no casualties reported.
Bangladesh Cricket Conflict: BCB requests ICC to move T20 World Cup matches out of India, citing security concerns.
NCC Republic Day Camp: Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurates the 2026 NCC Republic Day Camp in New Delhi.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Delhi Government and RBI Sign Landmark MoU for Open Market Borrowing

Summary: Delhi government signs a historic pact with RBI to raise infrastructure funds from the open market.

On January 5, 2026, the Delhi government achieved a significant financial milestone by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This agreement, announced by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), marks the first time the Delhi government will raise funds directly from the open market to finance critical infrastructure projects. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the initial fund-raising is expected to happen at an interest rate of approximately 7%.

Previously, Delhi’s capital expenditure was largely dependent on central grants and internal revenue. This shift provides the Union Territory with greater fiscal autonomy to handle large-scale urban development. For competitive exams, this is a key development in fiscal federalism and the evolving financial powers of Union Territories with legislatures. It highlights the mechanism of market borrowings by sub-national entities under RBI supervision.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/in-a-first-delhi-govt-to-raise-funds-from-market-for-infrastructure/article70475655.ece

West Bengal CM Challenges Election Commission Over Special Intensive Revision

Summary: Mamata Banerjee announces legal action against the ECI over alleged electorate harassment during the SIR process.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on January 5, 2026, declared her intention to move the court against the Election Commission of India (ECI). The dispute centers on the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state. The Chief Minister alleged that the process is causing widespread harassment to the electorate and expressed concerns over the transparency of the draft rolls.

This development comes as the ECI intensifies its verification process to ensure “zero-error” rolls ahead of upcoming polls. The SIR is a critical administrative process used to update voter lists, remove duplicates, and include new voters. For aspirants, this news is relevant to the “Elections” and “Constitutional Bodies” section of the syllabus, specifically focusing on the powers of the ECI under Article 324 and the legal recourse available to state governments against central administrative bodies.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/morning-digest-january-6-2026/article70475614.ece

Schools Closed Across North India as Severe Cold Wave Intensifies

Summary: Several state governments order school closures until mid-January due to plummeting temperatures and dense fog.

Large parts of Northern and Eastern India, including Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Delhi-NCR, ordered the closure of educational institutions on January 5, 2026, as a severe cold wave gripped the region. In Uttar Pradesh, schools for students up to Class 8 have been ordered to remain shut until January 14. Similarly, in Jharkhand, the district administrations of Ranchi and Jamshedpur extended school holidays till January 6 following a yellow alert from the IMD.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the minimum temperatures in several areas dipped significantly, combined with dense fog that reduced visibility to below 50 meters. This administrative response highlights the role of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) – specifically Section 163 – in enabling district magistrates to issue public safety orders. For exam purposes, it underscores the impact of “Western Disturbances” on Indian winters and the disaster management role of local administration.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/education/winter-vacations-2026-schools-are-closed-in-these-states-till-january-6-10455996/

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Supreme Court Redefines ‘Terrorist Act’ Under UAPA in Delhi Riots Verdict

Summary: SC rules that conspiracy and disruption of essential supplies constitute a ‘terrorist act’ even without physical violence.

In a landmark judgment delivered on January 5, 2026, the Supreme Court of India denied bail to activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the Delhi riots “larger conspiracy” case. A Bench headed by Justice Arvind Kumar interpreted Section 15(1)(a) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), stating that a “terrorist act” is not limited to the final act of violence. The court clarified that the build-up of a conspiracy, abetment, and the disruption of essential supplies leading to economic instability are also covered under the law.

While five other co-accused were granted bail, the court noted that Khalid and Imam played a “qualitatively different” role. This ruling is of immense significance for UPSC Law and Polity aspirants, as it expands the judicial interpretation of “terrorism” to include non-violent disruption and conspiracy as primary offenses under UAPA, potentially setting a precedent for state security cases.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/a-terrorist-act-is-not-just-the-finale-but-the-build-up-of-conspiracy-and-abetment-too-sc-judgment-in-delhi-riots-case/article70473728.ece

PM Modi Marks 1000 Years of Somnath Temple’s Resilience

Summary: Prime Minister shares an Op-Ed on the millennium of the first attack on the Somnath Temple.

On January 5, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a specialized Op-Ed titled “Somnath Swabhiman Parv,” marking 1000 years since the first major attack on the Somnath Temple in 1026 AD by Mahmud of Ghazni. The Prime Minister emphasized that the temple stands as a symbol of India’s “unbreakable courage” and cultural endurance despite repeated assaults over ten centuries. He lauded the spirit of the people who rebuilt the shrine multiple times, most notably the post-independence reconstruction led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

This commemorative event is important for History and Culture sections of competitive exams, specifically regarding the temple’s architectural significance (Maru-Gurjara style) and its historical timeline from the 11th century to its modern restoration. The “Somnath Swabhiman Parv” is expected to be a major cultural theme for the year 2026.

Source: PIB — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2211330

Vice-President Inaugurates NCC Republic Day Camp 2026 in New Delhi

Summary: VP C.P. Radhakrishnan lauds NCC as the world’s largest uniformed youth organization during the camp opening.

Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, inaugurated the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp 2026 at the DGNCC Camp in New Delhi on January 5, 2026. Addressing over 2,000 cadets from across India, the Vice-President highlighted the NCC’s motto of “Unity and Discipline” as the foundation for building a “Viksit Bharat @ 2047.” He recalled the contribution of cadets in historic operations like “Operation Sindoor” and noted that the NCC has evolved into the world’s largest uniformed youth organization in its 78th year.

The camp is an annual month-long event culminating in the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path. For aspirants, this news is relevant to “Youth Development” and “Internal Security” topics, focusing on the institutional role of NCC in nation-building and its history since its establishment under the NCC Act of 1948.

Source: PIB — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2211429&reg=3&lang=1

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India Issues Travel Advisory for Iran Amid Widespread Economic Protests

Summary: MEA advises Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iran due to protests over inflation and currency fall.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on January 5, 2026, urged Indian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran. The advisory follows nearly ten days of protests across 25 of Iran’s 31 provinces, triggered by a sharp devaluation of the Iranian rial and soaring inflation. The MEA also directed Indian nationals currently residing in Iran to exercise extreme caution and avoid protest sites.

The situation has gained international attention as U.S. President Donald Trump warned of “hitting Iran hard” if the crackdown on protesters continues. This development is crucial for International Relations (IR) students, focusing on India-Iran bilateral ties, the safety of the Indian diaspora (PIOs), and the geopolitical impact of unrest in the Middle East on India’s energy security and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-urges-citizens-to-avoid-non-essential-travel-to-iran/article70475007.ece

Bangladesh Cricket Board Requests Relocation of T20 World Cup from India

Summary: BCB cites security concerns and diplomatic tensions for its request to move the ICC tournament games.

In a significant escalation of sporting and diplomatic tensions, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) on January 5, 2026, to move their T20 World Cup matches out of India. BCB President Aminul Islam stated that the board does not “feel secure” sending the national team to India under the current circumstances. This move follows the recent controversy where pacer Mustafizur Rahman was dropped from his IPL team following a BCCI directive. Bangladesh was scheduled to play key matches in Kolkata and Mumbai.

While this is a sports-centric event, its implications for bilateral relations make it relevant for IR topics. It highlights how “Sports Diplomacy” or its failure can impact regional cooperation in South Asia and the role of international bodies like the ICC in mediating such disputes.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/dont-feel-secure-in-sending-our-team-to-india-next-step-depends-on-iccs-response-bcb-president/article70476624.ece

US President Trump Claims $600 Billion in Revenue from New Tariff Regime

Summary: US President asserts financial and national security strength through aggressive global levies.

On January 5, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States is set to receive over $600 billion in tariffs from various countries. Speaking in the wake of recent military actions in Venezuela and the capture of Nicolas Maduro, Trump argued that these levies have made America “far stronger” both financially and in terms of national security. The statement comes at a time when global markets are reacting to the US’s proactive “America First” trade policies.

For Indian competitive exams, this news is critical for understanding “Global Trade Wars” and their impact on the Indian economy, exports, and the multilateral trading system under the WTO. The surge in tariffs often leads to inflationary pressure globally and forces countries like India to rethink their trade strategies and bilateral agreements with the US.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/morning-digest-january-6-2026/article70475614.ece

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Governor Chairs First Meeting of the Payments Regulatory Board

Summary: Sanjay Malhotra leads the maiden meet of the PRB to discuss ‘Payments Vision 2028’ and digital survey findings.

The first-ever meeting of the newly constituted Payments Regulatory Board (PRB) was held in Mumbai on January 5, 2026, chaired by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra. The PRB was established following amendments to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. During the meeting, the board reviewed the functioning of the Department of Payment and Settlement Systems and discussed the draft “Payments Vision 2028.” This vision document aims to further enhance the safety, security, and reach of India’s digital payment ecosystem, which has seen unprecedented growth through UPI.

For banking and economy aspirants, the PRB’s role is a vital topic. It moves the regulation of payment systems from a sub-committee of the Central Board to a statutory regulatory board, aiming for better oversight of fintech companies and international payment cross-border linkages.

Source: Newsonair — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/rbi-governor-sanjay-malhotra-chairs-first-meeting-of-payments-regulatory-board-meeting/

Corporate Q3 Earnings: Bank of Baroda and Bajaj Finance Report Robust Growth

Summary: Major Indian financial institutions release Q3 business updates showing high double-digit growth in advances.

Leading Indian financial entities released their Q3 FY26 business updates on January 5, 2026. Bank of Baroda (BoB) reported a 12.2% year-on-year (YoY) growth in global business, led by a 14.6% rise in advances. Simultaneously, non-banking financial giant Bajaj Finance saw its Assets Under Management (AUM) jump by 22% to ₹4.85 lakh crore, with its customer base expanding to 115.4 million. In the retail sector, V2 Retail saw a 57% revenue jump, highlighting strong consumption in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

These figures indicate a resilient domestic credit demand despite global volatility. For SSC and Banking exams, these numbers are significant for understanding “Credit Growth” trends and the health of the Indian banking and NBFC sectors. The persistent growth in advances suggests that the “Capex Cycle” and retail consumption remain key drivers of the Indian economy.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/markets/news/stocks-to-watch-jan-05-marico-d-mart-hindustan-zinc-m-m-finance-dixon-126010500055_1.html

Markets Open 2026 on Firm Footing Amid Global Geopolitical Shifts

Summary: GIFT Nifty signals strong start for Indian bourses as global markets react to US-Venezuela conflict.

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty50, tracked upbeat global cues on January 5, 2026, the first full trading week of the year. GIFT Nifty futures were up nearly 80 points, signaling a bullish start. The positive sentiment was influenced by the Asia-Pacific markets, which rose following news of the US military operation in Venezuela. Notably, Japan’s Nikkei 225 jumped over 2.5% in its first session of 2026.

However, analysts cautioned that while global cues are positive, the US-Venezuela conflict might put pressure on Foreign Portfolio Investor (FPI) flows and oil prices in the long term. This news is relevant for “Capital Markets” and “Economic Geography” topics, specifically how geopolitical events in the West (like Venezuela) impact Indian stock market volatility and energy import bills.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/markets/news/stocks-to-watch-jan-05-marico-d-mart-hindustan-zinc-m-m-finance-dixon-126010500055_1.html

5. SPORTS

Second Khelo India Beach Games Begin at Ghoghla Beach, Diu

Summary: Over 1,100 athletes gather for the 2nd edition of the games, featuring eight beach-based sports.

The second edition of the Khelo India Beach Games was officially inaugurated at Ghoghla Beach, Diu, on January 5, 2026. The event was declared open by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, on behalf of the central government. Over 1,100 athletes from across India are participating in eight sports, including Beach Soccer, Beach Kabaddi, and Mallakhamb. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a message, highlighted the games’ role in diversifying India’s sporting landscape.

The mascot for the 2026 edition is ‘Pearl’ – a dolphin representing the coastal heritage of the UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu. For aspirants, this news is relevant to “Sports Schemes” and “Current Events,” emphasizing the government’s push for “Blue Economy” through sports tourism and the identification of talent in non-traditional disciplines.

Source: Outlook India — https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/others/khelo-india-beach-games-2026-opening-ceremony-narendra-modi-speech

Defending Champions Odisha Dominate Opening Day of Beach Soccer

Summary: Odisha women’s team secures a massive 11-3 win against Maharashtra in Diu.

On the opening day of the Khelo India Beach Games (January 5, 2026), defending champions Odisha made a thunderous start in the women’s Beach Soccer event by defeating Maharashtra 11-3. In another match, debutants Himachal Pradesh pulled off an upset against the hosts, Daman & Diu, with a 7-5 win. In Beach Kabaddi, Maharashtra’s men’s and women’s teams registered dominant victories over Delhi and Daman & Diu respectively. A total of 32 gold medals are at stake during the six-day event.

This reporting is essential for “Sports Personalities and Awards” sections, showcasing the rising dominance of states like Odisha in niche sporting categories. The inclusion of states like Himachal Pradesh in beach sports also indicates the nationwide reach of the Khelo India initiative.

Source: Outlook India — https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/others/khelo-india-beach-games-2026-opening-ceremony-narendra-modi-speech

Indian Hockey League Season Opens with Hat-trick Performance

Summary: Kane Russell scores the first hat-trick of the HIL season as the tournament kicks off.

The Hockey India League (HIL) witnessed a dramatic opening on January 5, 2026, as the season’s first hat-trick was recorded by Kane Russell. His performance led his team to a 3-2 victory in a tightly contested match. The league’s return is seen as a major boost for the domestic hockey ecosystem, providing a platform for young Indian players to compete with international stars. Hockey remains a priority sport for India following its recent Olympic successes.

For competitive exams, staying updated on “Domestic Leagues” and “Major Trophies” is crucial, as the HIL serves as a primary scouting ground for the National Hockey Team. The tournament’s structure and its impact on the development of Indian hockey are potential points for interview-stage discussions.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/01/05/

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

31.8% of Aravalli Range Stripped of Protection Due to Height Classification

Summary: Conservationists warn that new 100-meter height criteria exclude vital hills from legal protection.

A satellite audit released on January 5, 2026, by a conservation collective in Jaipur, revealed that 31.8% of the Aravalli range is now at ecological risk. This follows a recent central government classification that provides legal protection only to hills higher than 100 meters. The group argued that these “low-elevation” zones are not wasteland but critical water recharge zones and dust barriers for 30 crore people across Delhi-NCR, Haryana, and Rajasthan. They demanded a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve tag for the Aravallis to prevent desertification.

This is a high-priority topic for Environment and Geography sections, specifically focusing on the “Aravalli Range” (the oldest fold mountain in India), the definition of “Forests” under Indian law, and the environmental impact of mining in the National Capital Region.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/318-of-aravalli-range-at-risk-after-recent-classification-says-conservation-group/article70474740.ece

5.1-Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Assam’s Morigaon District

Summary: Seismic activity in the NE region underscores the vulnerability of Zone V; no damage reported.

An earthquake of 5.1 magnitude on the Richter scale struck Assam’s Morigaon district at 4:17 AM on January 5, 2026. While tremors were felt across the Brahmaputra valley and parts of the Northeast, officials reported no immediate casualties or structural damage. The epicenter was located in a known seismically active belt.

This event serves as a reminder of the “Seismic Zoning of India,” where the Northeast falls under Zone V (Very High Damage Risk Zone). For geography aspirants, understanding the “Plate Tectonics” of the Himalayan and Indo-Burmese ranges is essential. This news also highlights the importance of the National Center for Seismology (NCS) and the need for disaster-resilient infrastructure in the Northeast region.

Source: DD News — https://ddnews.gov.in/en/category/environment/

IMD Forecasts Intensifying Cold Wave and Dense Fog for NW India

Summary: Weather office warns of “Severe Cold Day” conditions as Western Disturbances affect the plains.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a bulletin on January 5, 2026, predicting that the cold wave across Delhi-NCR and the Indo-Gangetic plains would intensify over the next five days. The IMD attributed this to the influence of an active “Western Disturbance” and clear night skies which facilitate rapid cooling. Dense fog is expected to persist, impacting rail, road, and air traffic. Simultaneously, a low-pressure system in the Arabian Sea is expected to bring rain to Tamil Nadu.

This news is relevant for “Climatology” and “Indian Monsoon/Weather Patterns” topics. Aspirants should focus on terms like “Western Disturbance,” “Cold Wave criteria” (minimum temperature < 4°C), and the role of the jet stream in Indian winters.

Source: DD News — https://ddnews.gov.in/en/category/environment/

7. OTHERS

Former Billiards Champion and Coach Manoj Kothari Passes Away

Summary: Indian sports community mourns the loss of the 67-year-old former world champion and national coach.

Manoj Kothari, a former world billiards champion and the current chief coach of the Indian billiards and snooker team, passed away on January 5, 2026, at the age of 67. Kothari was a renowned figure in the cue sports world and was instrumental in mentoring several world-class players from India. His contribution to the sport, both as a player and a coach, earned him several accolades, including the Arjuna Award.

This obituary is important for the “Awards and Honours” and “Sports History” sections of competitive exams. India has a strong legacy in cue sports (Billiards/Snooker), and Kothari was a central pillar in maintaining that excellence on the global stage.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/archive/2026/01/05/

Supreme Court Onboards Bhutanese Law Clerks Under Bilateral MoU

Summary: Legal cooperation between India and Bhutan enters a new phase with the inclusion of Bhutanese clerks in SC.

In a unique gesture of judicial diplomacy, the Supreme Court of India on January 5, 2026, officially onboarded law clerks from Bhutan. This initiative is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Supreme Courts of the two nations. The Bhutanese clerks will work alongside Indian judicial officers to gain experience in the Indian legal system.

This development is relevant for “India and its Neighborhood” and “International Cooperation” topics. It highlights the “Soft Power” of the Indian judiciary and the deep-rooted bilateral ties between India and Bhutan, extending beyond economy and security into the realm of legal and institutional capacity building.

Source: Live Law — https://www.livelaw.in/top-stories/supreme-court-daily-round-up-january-5-2026-516954

CLAT 2026 Paper Leak Allegations Reach Supreme Court

Summary: A plea seeking a probe into the alleged leak of the Common Law Admission Test paper was filed.

A petition was filed in the Supreme Court on January 5, 2026, alleging a paper leak in the CLAT 2026 examination and seeking an independent investigation. The petitioner claimed that several questions were circulated on social media before the exam commenced. CLAT is the gateway for admissions into National Law Universities (NLUs) in India.

This news is significant for aspirants as it touches upon “Educational Reforms” and “Exam Integrity” in India. The Supreme Court’s stance on such leaks—often involving the “NTA” or other testing bodies—has been to balance the interests of honest candidates with the need for a fair process. It is a recurring theme in contemporary Indian administrative and legal news.