Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: January 09, 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. US Sanctions Threat: President Trump backs a Bill proposing 500% tariffs on countries (including India) buying Russian oil.
2. ISA Exit: The United States formally announces its withdrawal from the India-led International Solar Alliance (ISA).
3. Ecologist Passes: Renowned ecologist Madhav Gadgil, author of the Gadgil Report on Western Ghats, dies at 82 in Pune.
4. AI Summit 2026: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurates the “AI for Capacity Building” summit in New Delhi.
5. Pesticides Bill: Ministry of Agriculture invites public feedback on the Draft Pesticides Management Bill, 2025.
6. Indus Water Treaty: Pakistan warns India against any development activity on western rivers in violation of the IWT.
7. RBI Action: RBI cancels/accepts surrender of registration for 51 NBFCs to clean up the regulatory framework.
8. Badminton: P.V. Sindhu enters the Malaysia Open 2026 semi-finals after Akane Yamaguchi retires due to injury.
9. Deep Depression: A rare January weather system in the Bay of Bengal intensifies, threatening heavy rain in Tamil Nadu.
10. Domestic Cricket: Ruturaj Gaikwad equals the record for most centuries (15) in Vijay Hazare Trophy history.

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1. STATE AFFAIRS

ED Alleges Evidence Tampering by West Bengal CM During Raid

Summary: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) accused CM Mamata Banerjee of obstructing a money laundering probe in Kolkata.

On January 8, 2026, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleged that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee forcibly entered the residence of I-PAC director Pratik Jain during an active raid. The agency claimed the Chief Minister removed “key” physical documents and evidence linked to an ongoing money laundering investigation into alleged coal smuggling. The incident occurred in Kolkata, sparking a massive political standoff between the state and the Centre. The ED stated that such interference by a high-ranking constitutional authority hampers the judicial process.

Exam Significance: This highlights the tension between central investigative agencies and state executive powers, a frequent topic in Indian Polity regarding federalism and the “Doctrine of Colorable Legislation.” The legal implications of obstructing a federal agency’s search are critical for Mains answers on internal security and governance.

Source: The Hindu

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NMC Withdraws Permission for Medical College in Jammu & Kashmir

Summary: The National Medical Commission (NMC) cancelled MBBS admission permission for a key institute in Reasi.

On January 8, 2026, the National Medical Commission (NMC) officially withdrew permission for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME) to conduct MBBS courses for the current academic session. The decision was based on “non-compliance with standards” during recent inspections. Located in the Reasi district, the institute’s closure has triggered sharp political reactions in Jammu and Kashmir, with local leaders terming the move an “injustice” to the region’s students.

Exam Significance: This development is significant for exams concerning the regulation of higher education in India and the role of the NMC (which replaced the MCI). Aspirants should note the criteria for medical college accreditation under the NMC Act, 2019, and the impact of such decisions on the healthcare infrastructure in Union Territories.

Source: Indian Express

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Heavy Rain Alert as Deep Depression Intensifies in Bay of Bengal

Summary: A rare January depression is set to bring heavy rainfall to coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on January 8, 2026, upgraded a weather system over the southeast Bay of Bengal to a “Deep Depression.” Moving west-northwestward at 18 kmph, the system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall across coastal Tamil Nadu starting January 9. This is an unusual event, as the Bay of Bengal has seen only 20 such intense systems in January since 1891. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued orange and yellow alerts for several districts.

Exam Significance: This event is a classic example of “unseasonal weather patterns” and “climate change impact” for Geography and Environment papers. Understanding the mechanics of depressions and the rare nature of post-monsoon systems in the Indian Ocean is vital for Prelims.

Source: DD News

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2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

India AI Mission: AI Impact Summit 2026 Held in New Delhi

Summary: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated a national summit on transforming governance through AI.

On January 8, 2026, the “AI for Capacity Building: Transforming Governance – India AI Mission – AI Impact Summit 2026” was held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh addressed the gathering, emphasizing that Artificial Intelligence is no longer an option but a necessity for efficient public service delivery. The summit focused on integrating AI into the “Viksit Bharat” roadmap and enhancing the digital skills of government officials.

Exam Significance: This links to the “IndiaAI Mission” and the “National Program on AI.” Aspirants should focus on the four pillars of the mission: AI in Governance, AI Ethics, AI Skilling, and AI Research. The role of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in these initiatives is a frequent area of questioning.

Source: Press Information Bureau

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Draft Pesticides Management Bill 2025 Released for Public Feedback

Summary: The Ministry of Agriculture proposes to replace the 57-year-old Insecticides Act, 1968.

On January 8, 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) invited public suggestions for the Draft Pesticides Management Bill, 2025. The Bill seeks to modernize the regulatory framework for pesticides, ensuring better accountability throughout their lifecycle—from manufacture to disposal. Key provisions include mandatory accreditation of testing laboratories and time-bound registration (12–18 months). It also proposes legal pathways to promote biopesticides and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Exam Significance: This is a high-priority topic for GS Paper III (Agriculture and Environment). The shift from the Insecticides Act, 1968, to this new Bill reflects India’s commitment to “sustainable agriculture” and “food safety.” Aspirants should memorize the regulator’s powers and the focus on “traditional-knowledge-based solutions.”

Source: PMF IAS

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Delhi HC: Forcing Pregnancy Continuation Violates Bodily Integrity

Summary: The Delhi High Court ruled that denying medical termination causes “aggravated mental trauma” to women.

In a landmark judgment on January 8, 2026, the Delhi High Court discharged a woman in a criminal case filed by her estranged husband for terminating her 14-week pregnancy without his consent. The court held that forcing a woman to carry a pregnancy against her will violates her “bodily integrity” and aggravates “mental trauma.” The judgment highlighted that a woman’s right to choose is paramount under Article 21 of the Constitution.

Exam Significance: This case is a critical reference for essays on “Women’s Rights” and legal questions regarding the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Amendment Act, 2021. It reinforces the judicial stance that reproductive autonomy is a fundamental right, even within the context of matrimonial disputes.

Source: The Hindu

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3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Trump Backs 500% Tariff on Countries Buying Russian Oil

Summary: US President Donald Trump endorses a Bill targeting India, China, and Brazil for Russian energy imports.

On January 8, 2026, geopolitical tensions surged as US President Donald Trump endorsed a sanctions bill proposing up to 500% tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil. US Senator Lindsey Graham confirmed the move, specifically naming India, China, and Brazil. The bill aims to cut off financing for Russia’s military operations. While analysts suggest the real-world impact might be limited due to US dependency on Indian IT and pharma sectors, the move has caused significant anxiety in Indian markets.

Exam Significance: This is a major development for “International Relations” and “Global Economy” papers. It tests India’s “Strategic Autonomy” and its ability to balance ties with the US and Russia. Aspirants should study the “CAATSA” framework and the concept of “Secondary Sanctions.”

Source: Business Standard

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US Withdraws from India-led International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Summary: In a blow to global climate cooperation, the Trump administration exits the ISA and 65 other bodies.

On January 8, 2026, the United States formally announced its withdrawal from the International Solar Alliance (ISA), an organization co-founded by India and France. This move was part of a broader memorandum signed by President Trump to exit 66 international organizations and treaties deemed “contrary to US interests.” The withdrawal marks a significant retreat from global climate negotiations and challenges the leadership of the ISA in promoting solar energy in developing nations.

Exam Significance: The ISA is a flagship Indian diplomatic initiative with headquarters in Gurugram, India. The US exit is a setback for “Green Energy Diplomacy” and the “One Sun, One World, One Grid” (OSOWOG) initiative. Aspirants must track how this affects the funding and expansion of the ISA.

Source: The Hindu

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Pakistan Warns India Over Indus Waters Treaty Violations

Summary: Islamabad raises concerns over Indian development projects on the Chenab, Jhelum, and Neelam rivers.

During a weekly media briefing on January 8, 2026, Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that Pakistan would challenge any Indian development activity on the western rivers at “political and diplomatic levels.” This follows India’s 2024 decision to put the 1960 treaty in “abeyance” following terror attacks. Pakistan maintains that the IWT remains a “binding international instrument” with no provision for suspension.

Exam Significance: The Indus Waters Treaty is a recurring topic in “India-Pakistan Relations.” Aspirants should know the division of rivers (Eastern: Ravi, Beas, Sutlej to India; Western: Indus, Jhelum, Chenab to Pakistan) and the role of the World Bank as a mediator.

Source: The Hindu

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4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Cancels Registration of 51 NBFCs in Regulatory Cleanup

Summary: The central bank accepted the surrender of licenses and cancelled registrations to streamline the sector.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on January 8, 2026, announced the removal of 51 Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) from its regulatory framework. According to the press release, 35 NBFCs had their Certificates of Registration (CoR) cancelled due to statutory violations, while 16 others voluntarily surrendered their licenses. The companies involved were based in Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Delhi. The RBI clarified that these entities are now prohibited from accepting public funds or conducting any financial business.

Exam Significance: This news is vital for “Banking and Finance” exams (IBPS, SBI, RBI Grade B). It reflects the RBI’s “Scale-Based Regulation” (SBR) framework and its efforts to eliminate “shell” or non-operational NBFCs. Understanding Section 45-IA of the RBI Act, 1934, is essential for aspirants.

Source: Outlook Money

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Indian Markets Crash: Sensex Falls 780 Points on Global Tensions

Summary: Sensex and Nifty recorded their worst day in a month due to US tariff threats and geopolitical instability.

On January 8, 2026, the Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, declined for the fourth consecutive day. The Sensex closed at 84,180.96 (down 780 points), and the Nifty50 ended at 25,876.85 (down 264 points). The crash was triggered by news of President Trump backing 500% tariffs on Russian oil buyers and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces. Metal stocks were the hardest hit, with Hindustan Zinc and Nalco sliding 6%.

Exam Significance: For economic awareness, aspirants should understand the “India VIX” (Volatility Index), which jumped 6.53% on this day. The sensitivity of Indian markets to US foreign policy and “Foreign Institutional Investor” (FII) outflows is a key theme for the Indian Economy syllabus.

Source: Business Standard

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IRFC 2.0: Annual Sanction Target of ₹60,000 Crore Achieved

Summary: The Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) hit its yearly target by the end of Q3 FY26.

As of January 8, 2026, reports indicated that the Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) has reached its annual sanction target of ₹60,000 crore for the 2025-26 fiscal year. This achievement, recorded by the end of the third quarter (December 2025), is part of the “IRFC 2.0” phase. The funds are primarily used for the electrification of the rail network and the procurement of rolling stock. Indian Railways has now electrified 99.2% (69,427 km) of its broad-gauge network.

Exam Significance: This highlights the “Infrastructure Financing” model in India. IRFC is a Miniratna Schedule ‘A’ Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways. Aspirants should note its role in funding “Mission 100% Electrification” and its impact on reducing the carbon footprint.

Source: AffairsCloud

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5. SPORTS

Malaysia Open 2026: PV Sindhu Reaches Semi-Finals

Summary: Indian ace P.V. Sindhu advanced after Akane Yamaguchi retired mid-match due to injury.

On January 8, 2026, two-time Olympic medalist P.V. Sindhu secured her spot in the semi-finals of the BWF Malaysia Open Super 1000 tournament. Facing world No. 3 Akane Yamaguchi of Japan in Kuala Lumpur, Sindhu dominated the first set 21-11. However, before the second set could commence, Yamaguchi withdrew from the match citing a knee injury. Earlier, Sindhu had defeated Japan’s Tomoka Miyazaki in the Round of 16 to set up this quarter-final clash.

Exam Significance: This is a significant boost for Indian badminton at the start of the 2026 season. Super 1000 tournaments are among the highest-tier events on the BWF World Tour. Aspirants should track Sindhu’s performance as she aims for a top-5 world ranking ahead of the Asian Games.

Source: Outlook India

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Ruturaj Gaikwad Equals Record for Most Centuries in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Summary: Gaikwad hit his 15th ton against Maharashtra, equalling the all-time record held by Ankit Bawne.

In a Vijay Hazare Trophy match on January 8, 2026, Maharashtra captain Ruturaj Gaikwad scored a magnificent 134* off 131 balls. This innings marked his 15th century in the tournament’s history, bringing him level with Ankit Bawne for the most hundreds in the domestic 50-over competition. Notably, Gaikwad reached this milestone in just 59 matches, compared to Bawne’s 101. His performance helped Maharashtra post 249/7 against their opponents.

Exam Significance: Domestic cricket achievements are frequently asked in SSC and State PSC exams. The “Vijay Hazare Trophy” is the premier List A cricket tournament in India. Knowing record holders like Gaikwad and the structure of domestic cricket (BCCI) is useful for the “Sports and Personalities” section.

Source: Tribune India

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Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja Shine in Domestic Return

Summary: Senior Indian all-rounders showed strong form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy matches.

On January 8, 2026, several senior Indian players featured in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Hardik Pandya, playing for Baroda, smashed 75 runs off just 31 balls (including 9 sixes) against Chandigarh. Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja scored an unbeaten 52* off 39 balls to guide Saurashtra to a massive total of 383/4 against Gujarat. These performances come at a crucial time as the national selectors look to finalize the squad for upcoming international limited-overs series.

Exam Significance: The return of centrally contracted players to domestic cricket is a key policy change by the BCCI to improve the standard of local tournaments. This serves as a “Sports Governance” example for aspirants discussing the health of Indian domestic sports infrastructure.

Source: Tribune India

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6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

Renowned Ecologist Madhav Gadgil Passes Away at 82

Summary: The architect of the “Gadgil Report” on the Western Ghats died in Pune after a brief illness.

Madhav Gadgil, one of India’s most influential ecologists, passed away late on January 7, 2026, at his residence in Pune, with the news confirmed on January 8. Born in 1942, Gadgil was the founder of the Centre for Ecological Sciences at IISc Bangalore. He is best known for chairing the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), which in 2011 recommended declaring the entire mountain range as an “Ecologically Sensitive Area.”

Exam Significance: This is a “Must-Know” for any UPSC aspirant. The “Gadgil Report vs. Kasturirangan Report” is a core part of the Environment syllabus. Gadgil’s work on biodiversity, community-based conservation, and the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) remains a cornerstone of Indian environmental policy.

Source: The Hindu

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Study: Water Vapour Primary Driver of Heating over Indo-Gangetic Plain

Summary: Research by ARIES scientists reveals that water vapour has a greater heating effect than aerosols in the IGP.

A study published on January 8, 2026, by the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) found that water vapour is the dominant driver of atmospheric heating over the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP). Using data from six NASA-coordinated AERONET sites, researchers discovered that the “Water Vapour Radiative Effect” (WVRE) heats the atmosphere far more efficiently than aerosols. While aerosols modulate the heating, they do not override the influence of water vapour, which acts as a potent greenhouse gas.

Exam Significance: This scientific update is relevant for GS Paper III (Environment and Climate Change). It clarifies the relative roles of “Greenhouse Gases” vs. “Aerosols” in regional warming. ARIES is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) based in Nainital.

Source: PMF IAS

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NBA Releases ₹45 Lakh to Red Sanders Farmers in Andhra Pradesh

Summary: The National Biodiversity Authority used the “Benefit Sharing” mechanism to reward sustainable farming.

On January 8, 2026, the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) announced the release of ₹45 lakh to Red Sanders farmers in Andhra Pradesh. This disbursement was made under the “Access and Benefit Sharing” (ABS) mechanism of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. Red Sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus) is an endemic species found primarily in the Seshachalam hills. The fund aims to incentivize farmers who help conserve this high-value timber while ensuring they receive a fair share of the commercial profits.

Exam Significance: This is a prime example of the “Nagoya Protocol” in action within India. Aspirants should understand the role of the NBA (headquartered in Chennai) and the legal framework of the Biological Diversity Act in protecting India’s genetic resources.

Source: DD News

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7. OTHERS

Appointment: A. K. Balasubrahmanian Named Chairman of AERB

Summary: The ACC approved the appointment of the new head for India’s nuclear safety regulator.

On January 8, 2026, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) appointed A. K. Balasubrahmanian as the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). He succeeds Dr. D. K. Shukla for a tenure of three years. The AERB is responsible for ensuring that the use of ionizing radiation and nuclear energy in India does not cause undue risk to health and the environment. Balasubrahmanian previously served in senior roles within the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

Exam Significance: Constitutional and statutory appointments are frequent Prelims questions. Aspirants should know that the AERB reports to the Atomic Energy Commission and is the apex body for nuclear safety standards in India.

Source: AffairsCloud

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Abhishek Dev’s Tenure as APEDA Chairman Extended

Summary: The Centre extended the term of the chief of the agricultural export promotion body by one year.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on January 8, 2026, approved a one-year extension for Abhishek Dev as the Chairman of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The extension is effective from February 8, 2026. Under Dev’s leadership, India has seen a steady rise in the export of non-basmati rice, fruits, and organic products despite global trade headwinds.

Exam Significance: APEDA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Its role in achieving the “Agriculture Export Policy” targets is crucial. Aspirants should note that APEDA also handles the “GI Tagging” of many agricultural products.

Source: AffairsCloud

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India and Iran to Commemorate 75 Years of Diplomatic Ties

Summary: Both nations announced a year-long diplomatic calendar to mark the milestone anniversary.

On January 8, 2026, officials from India and Iran unveiled a “Diplomatic Calendar” to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their bilateral relations. The celebrations will include cultural festivals, joint seminars on the “Chabahar Port” project, and energy cooperation talks. This milestone comes at a time when India is looking to strengthen its “Connect Central Asia” policy via the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

Exam Significance: This is a key update for “Bilateral Relations.” India and Iran share deep civilizational ties. Aspirants should focus on the strategic importance of the Chabahar Port for India’s bypass of Pakistan and access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Source: The Hindu

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QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: CORE RECALL POINTS

1. National & State Governance

• ED vs. West Bengal CM: Enforcement Directorate alleged CM Mamata Banerjee interfered in raid at I-PAC director’s residence during coal smuggling probe.
  • Significance: Tests knowledge of Centre-State relations, federalism, and powers of central investigative agencies.
  • Source: The Hindu
• NMC Cancels Medical College Permission: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute (Reasi, J&K) lost MBBS approval due to non-compliance.
  • Significance: Regulation of medical education, NMC Act 2019, and healthcare in UTs.
  • Source: Indian Express
• Delhi HC on Reproductive Rights: Court ruled forcing pregnancy continuation violates bodily integrity under Article 21.
  • Significance: Fundamental Rights, MTP Amendment Act 2021, women’s reproductive autonomy.
  • Source: The Hindu
• Draft Pesticides Management Bill 2025: Ministry of Agriculture seeks public feedback to replace 1968 Insecticides Act.
  • Significance: Agricultural reforms, sustainable farming, biopesticides, and IPM promotion.
  • Source: PMF IAS
• AI for Governance Summit: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated AI Impact Summit 2026 focusing on Viksit Bharat.
  • Significance: IndiaAI Mission, AI in governance, digital transformation, MeitY initiatives.
  • Source: Press Information Bureau

2. Economy & Finance

• RBI NBFC Cleanup: 51 NBFCs removed from registry (35 cancelled, 16 surrendered licenses).
  • Significance: Scale-Based Regulation framework, RBI Act Section 45-IA, financial sector cleanup.
  • Source: Outlook Money
• Stock Market Crash: Sensex fell 780 points (84,180.96), Nifty down 264 points (25,876.85) on US tariff threats.
  • Significance: Market volatility, India VIX (up 6.53%), FII impact, geopolitical sensitivity.
  • Source: Business Standard
• IRFC 2.0 Target Achievement: Indian Railway Finance Corporation hit ₹60,000 crore annual sanction target in Q3.
  • Significance: Infrastructure financing, railway electrification (99.2% of broad gauge), PSE performance.
  • Source: AffairsCloud

3. International Relations & Defence

• US Proposes 500% Tariff: President Trump backed bill targeting India, China, Brazil for buying Russian oil.
  • Significance: Tests India’s Strategic Autonomy, CAATSA framework, secondary sanctions, energy security.
  • Source: Business Standard
• US Exits International Solar Alliance: Trump administration withdrew from ISA and 65 other international bodies.
  • Significance: India-France initiative, ISA HQ in Gurugram, OSOWOG project, climate diplomacy setback.
  • Source: The Hindu
• Indus Waters Treaty Dispute: Pakistan warned against Indian development on western rivers (Chenab, Jhelum, Neelam).
  • Significance: IWT 1960 provisions, river distribution, World Bank mediation, India-Pakistan relations.
  • Source: The Hindu
• India-Iran 75th Anniversary: Diplomatic calendar announced including Chabahar Port discussions and INSTC talks.
  • Significance: Bilateral relations, Connect Central Asia policy, strategic port access.
  • Source: The Hindu

4. Science, Environment & Technology

• Madhav Gadgil Passes Away: Renowned ecologist (82) and author of Gadgil Report on Western Ghats died in Pune.
  • Significance: Western Ghats ESA recommendations, Gadgil vs. Kasturirangan Report, biodiversity conservation.
  • Source: The Hindu
• ARIES Study on IGP Heating: Water vapour identified as primary atmospheric heating driver over Indo-Gangetic Plain.
  • Significance: Climate science, greenhouse gases vs. aerosols, regional warming mechanisms.
  • Source: PMF IAS
• NBA Benefit Sharing: ₹45 lakh released to Red Sanders farmers in Andhra Pradesh under ABS mechanism.
  • Significance: Biological Diversity Act 2002, Nagoya Protocol implementation, NBA’s role.
  • Source: DD News
• Bay of Bengal Deep Depression: Rare January weather system threatens heavy rainfall in coastal Tamil Nadu.
  • Significance: Unseasonal weather patterns, climate change impact, only 20 such events since 1891.
  • Source: DD News

5. Sports

• PV Sindhu Malaysia Open SF: Two-time Olympic medalist reached semi-finals after Akane Yamaguchi retired (injury).
  • Significance: BWF Super 1000 tournament, international badminton achievements.
  • Source: Outlook India
  • Ruturaj Gaikwad Record: Scored 15th Vijay Hazare Trophy century (134* off 131 balls), equaling Ankit Bawne’s record.
    • Significance: Domestic cricket records, List A cricket, BCCI tournament structure.
    • Source: Tribune India