Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: January 21, 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 Headlines (Snapshot)

EU Trade Deal: Ursula von der Leyen terms India-EU FTA the “mother of all deals” at Davos.
MMRDA at WEF: Maharashtra signs 10 MoUs worth $96 billion at Davos for “Mumbai 3.0.”
India-UAE Target: Bilateral trade goal set at $200 billion by 2032 following UAE President’s visit.
Marine Farming: India launches its first open-sea marine fish farming project in the Andaman Sea.
Winter Games: 6th Khelo India Winter Games officially inaugurated in Leh, Ladakh.
Constitutional Tussle: Kerala and Tamil Nadu Governors spark controversies over Assembly addresses.
Green Finance: IREDA arm IGGEFIL sanctions its first overseas loan ($22.5M) for a Zambian solar project.
AI Summit: India to host the first Global South AI Impact Summit in Feb 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
SC Hearing: Supreme Court resumes hearing on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Railway Infra: PM Modi dedicates projects worth ₹830 crore in West Bengal including Amrit Bharat trains.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Maharashtra Secures Historic $96 Billion Investment at WEF Davos

Summary: Maharashtra’s MMRDA signs 10 MoUs at the World Economic Forum to transform Mumbai.

On January 20, 2026, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) achieved a historic milestone at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. The delegation, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, signed 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth $96 billion (approximately ₹8.73 lakh crore). These agreements are projected to generate 9.6 lakh jobs and are part of the “Mumbai 3.0” vision to make Maharashtra a $1 trillion economy.

Key agreements include a $45 billion deal with SBG Group for integrated logistics and a $25 billion commitment from Panchshil Realty for fintech districts. Additionally, collaborations with the University of California, Berkeley, and the Technical University of Munich were established to foster AI and climate-resilient urban planning. This massive influx of capital targets sustainable infrastructure, AI laboratories, and net-zero industrial clusters. For competitive exams, students should note the “Mumbai 3.0” initiative and the role of sub-national diplomacy in achieving national economic targets.

Source: Asian News International (ANI)

Kerala Governor Omits Policy Address Portions Amidst Fiscal Tensions

Summary: Governor Rajendra Arlekar skips cabinet-approved criticisms of the Union government in Assembly.

A significant constitutional face-off occurred in the Kerala Legislative Assembly on January 20, 2026. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, while delivering the customary policy address at the start of the 16th session, omitted specific paragraphs approved by the state cabinet. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan later informed the House that the Governor skipped sections criticizing the Union government’s fiscal policies and the delay in presidential assent for state bills. Specifically, the Governor omitted the opening of paragraph 12, which mentioned “severe fiscal stress” caused by the Centre.

The Raj Bhavan defended the move, stating the Governor had asked the government to remove “half-truths” regarding the Supreme Court’s involvement in pending bills. This incident highlights the ongoing friction between state executives and governors over “discretionary powers” and “aid and advice” under Article 163. Aspirants should focus on the constitutional provisions of the Governor’s address (Article 176) and the limits of executive interference in cabinet-approved speeches.

Source: Times of India

Tamil Nadu Governor Walks Out of Assembly Over Protocol Dispute

Summary: Governor R.N. Ravi leaves the House after a stinging critique of the state administration.

For the third consecutive year, Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the State Legislative Assembly without completing his customary address on January 20, 2026. The controversy began when the Governor refused to read the text prepared by the DMK-led government, alleging it contained “unsubstantiated claims” and lacked respect for the National Anthem. Following his departure, the Raj Bhavan issued a 13-point statement criticizing the state’s decline in FDI rankings (from 4th to 6th) and a reported 55% increase in POCSO cases.

The state government, led by CM M.K. Stalin, framed the incident as a violation of Dravidian tradition and democratic protocol. The Governor also claimed his microphone was switched off during the proceedings, calling it “Emergency-era censorship.” This event is a critical case study for UPSC aspirants on the “Office of the Governor” and the “Doctrine of Pleasure.” It also emphasizes the importance of the “Tamil Thai Valthu” versus the National Anthem protocol in regional politics.

Source: OpIndia

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

India to Host First Global South AI Impact Summit in February

Summary: MeitY announces a five-day global AI summit centered on “People, Planet, and Progress.”

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) officially unveiled details for the “India-AI Impact Summit 2026” on January 20, 2026. Scheduled to be held from February 16–20 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, it will be the first global AI summit hosted by a nation from the Global South. The summit is built upon three foundational pillars or “Sutras”—People, Planet, and Progress—and will address seven thematic “Chakras” including Human Capital, Inclusion, and Safe AI.

The government also launched three Global Impact Challenges: “AI for ALL” for large-scale social solutions, “AI by HER” for women-led innovation (in partnership with NITI Aayog), and “YUVAi” for youth aged 13–21. Winners will receive awards totaling up to ₹2.5 crore. This initiative aligns with the IndiaAI Mission to position the country as a global hub for responsible AI. For exams, remember the “Sutras” and “Chakras” framework and the significance of the Global South leadership in tech governance.

Source: Press Information Bureau

PM Modi Inaugurates ₹830 Crore Infrastructure Projects in West Bengal

Summary: Major boost to rail and waterways connectivity in Hooghly and Malda regions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth over ₹830 crore in Singur, West Bengal, on January 20, 2026. The highlight of the visit was the launch of three new Amrit Bharat Express trains, including a service connecting West Bengal to Varanasi. This follows the launch of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah and Guwahati just a day prior. The PM emphasized that the development of Eastern India is the cornerstone of a “Viksit Bharat.”

In the maritime sector, the PM inaugurated the Extended Port Gate System at Balagarh, developed by the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (SMPA). This ₹552 crore project aims to decongest the Kolkata Dock System by utilizing inland waterways for cargo movement. A 50-passenger hybrid electric aluminium catamaran was also launched to promote green water transport. Aspirants should note the “Amrit Bharat” scheme details and the strategic importance of the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in the “Eastern Grid” of India’s logistics.

Source: Press Information Bureau

Supreme Court Resumes Hearing on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Rolls

Summary: CJI-led bench examines ECI’s decision to revise electoral rolls in Bihar and Tamil Nadu.

A Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant resumed crucial hearings on January 20, 2026, regarding petitions challenging the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) decision to conduct a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The petitions, primarily concerning Bihar and Tamil Nadu, argue that the SIR process could lead to the arbitrary exclusion of genuine voters. Senior Advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, representing the ECI, argued that the SIR order provides a “complete set of procedural rules” and that Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) are competent to review citizenship markers.

The court is examining whether the ECI’s instructions during the SIR process bypass the statutory framework of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The petitioners allege that the revision targets specific communities under the guise of identifying “illegal migrants.” For competitive exams, this case is vital for understanding the ECI’s powers under Article 324 and the legal safeguards against disenfranchisement. The outcome will define the standard operating procedures for future electoral roll clean-ups.

Source: The Hindu

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

EU President Terms India Trade Deal the “Mother of All Deals”

Summary: Ursula von der Leyen announces historic India-EU FTA conclusion at Davos 2026.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 20, 2026, announced that the European Union and India are on the cusp of signing a “historic trade agreement.” She referred to the upcoming Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as the “mother of all deals,” noting it would create a unified market of 2 billion people, accounting for nearly 25% of the global GDP. The President is scheduled to visit India from January 25–27, 2026, as a Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations.

The negotiations, which have been ongoing for years, are expected to be officially concluded during the India-EU Summit on January 27. The EU is currently India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade in goods reaching $135 billion in FY 2023-24. This deal is viewed as a strategic pivot to reduce reliance on single-supply chains and counter global trade disruptions. For aspirants, this is a landmark event in International Relations (IR), marking a qualitative shift in India-EU ties.

Source: The Hindu

India and UAE Set $200 Billion Bilateral Trade Target by 2032

Summary: Joint statement follows UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s visit to India.

Following the official visit of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on January 19-20, 2026, India and the UAE issued a joint statement setting an ambitious bilateral trade target of $200 billion by 2032. The two leaders reviewed the progress of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and called for the “expeditious implementation” of projects like ‘Bharat Mart’ in Dubai and the ‘Virtual Trade Corridor.’ These initiatives aim to promote Indian MSME products across the Middle East, Africa, and Eurasia.

A significant outcome was the signing of a Letter of Intent for a “Strategic Defence Partnership.” The leaders also discussed cooperation in advanced nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and the establishment of a “supercomputing cluster” and “Digital Embassies.” UAE also conveyed its full support for India’s BRICS Chairmanship in 2026. This partnership is a cornerstone of India’s “Extended Neighbourhood Policy.” Students should focus on the “I2U2” context and the “India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor” (IMEC) linkages.

Source: Ministry of External Affairs

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

IREDA Subsidiary Sanctions First International Green Loan for Zambia

Summary: IGGEFIL provides $22.5 million for a 100 MW solar project in Zambia.

IREDA Global Green Energy Finance IFSC Ltd (IGGEFIL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), sanctioned its first-ever overseas loan on January 20, 2026. The green loan, worth $22.5 million, was granted to Swarna Solar Limited (SSL) for the development of a 100 MW photovoltaic solar power plant in the Serenje District of Zambia. The decision was finalized during a board meeting in New Delhi chaired by Pradip Kumar Das, CMD of IREDA.

This marks a significant milestone for IREDA as it transitions into an international green finance catalyst through its base in GIFT City, Gujarat. Operating under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), IREDA aims to leverage competitive international capital to support global renewable energy goals. This move aligns with India’s “One Sun, One World, One Grid” (OSOWOG) vision. For exams, identify IREDA’s “Navratna” status and the role of GIFT City in facilitating international financial transactions for Indian PSUs.

Source: Bisinfotech

5. SPORTS

6th Khelo India Winter Games Inaugurated in Leh, Ladakh

Summary: Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta opens the 7-day winter sports extravaganza.

The 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games was officially inaugurated on January 20, 2026, at the NDS Stadium in Leh, Ladakh. Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta served as the Chief Guest for the opening ceremony, which featured cultural performances showcasing Ladakh’s heritage. The event, which runs until January 26, will see athletes from 21 States and Union Territories competing in disciplines like Ice Hockey, Figure Skating, and Speed Skating.

A major highlight of this edition is the introduction of Figure Skating as an Olympic sport category. Matches are being held at the Artificial Ice Rink in NDS Stadium and the frozen Gupuk Pond. Participating teams include Maharashtra, ITBP, and the Indian Army. This is the second major Khelo India event of 2026, following the Beach Games in Diu. For competitive exams, note the role of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in promoting winter sports tourism in the Himalayan region.

Source: News on Air (Prasar Bharati)

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

India Launches First Open-Sea Marine Fish Farming Project in Andamans

Summary: Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurates pilot for Blue Economy 2047.

On January 20, 2026, Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh launched India’s first open-sea marine fish farming project at North Bay in the Andaman Sea. This pilot project marks a strategic shift from traditional coastal aquaculture to deep-sea farming, utilizing advanced offshore cages designed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT). The initiative focuses on high-value species like Cobia, Silver Pompano, and seaweeds, aiming to boost seafood production and reduce the burden on near-shore ecosystems.

The project is a key component of the “Blue Economy 2047” vision and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). It integrates satellite-based monitoring and AI-driven feeding systems to ensure sustainability. During the launch, finfish and seaweed seeds were distributed to local fishing communities to encourage diversified livelihoods. Aspirants should understand the “Blue Economy” concept and the role of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) in exploring the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Source: Adda247

7. QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)

1. National & State Governance

India-AI Impact Summit: First Global South AI summit from Feb 16-20, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
- Significance: Three “Sutras” (People, Planet, Progress) and seven “Chakras”; tests knowledge of tech governance and IndiaAI Mission.
Governor’s Address Row: Kerala and Tamil Nadu Governors sparked controversies on Jan 20, 2026, over Assembly addresses.
- Significance: Article 176 constitutional provisions, Governor’s discretionary powers, and Article 163 (aid and advice).
Supreme Court SIR Hearing: CJI Surya Kant-led bench examines ECI’s Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar and Tamil Nadu.
- Significance: Article 324 (ECI powers), Representation of the People Act 1950, and electoral integrity safeguards.
PM Modi Infrastructure Push: Dedicated ₹830 crore projects in West Bengal including 3 new Amrit Bharat Express trains and Extended Port Gate System at Balagarh.
- Significance: Viksit Bharat vision, railway connectivity, and Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port’s role in Eastern logistics grid.

2. Economy & Finance

Maharashtra’s $96 Billion MoUs: MMRDA signed 10 MoUs at WEF Davos for “Mumbai 3.0” vision; projected to create 9.6 lakh jobs.
- Significance: Sub-national diplomacy, FDI attraction, and $1 trillion economy target for Maharashtra.
IGGEFIL International Green Loan: IREDA subsidiary sanctioned first overseas loan of $22.5 million for 100 MW solar project in Zambia’s Serenje District.
- Significance: GIFT City’s role in international finance, IREDA’s Navratna status, and OSOWOG (One Sun, One World, One Grid) vision.

3. International Relations & Defence

India-EU FTA: EU President Ursula von der Leyen termed it the “mother of all deals” at Davos; expected conclusion on Jan 27, 2026.
- Significance: Unified market of 2 billion people, 25% of global GDP; EU is India’s largest trading partner with $135 billion bilateral trade.
India-UAE Trade Target: $200 billion bilateral trade goal set by 2032 following UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s visit (Jan 19-20, 2026).
- Significance: CEPA progress, Strategic Defence Partnership, I2U2 framework, IMEC corridor, and India’s BRICS Chairmanship 2026.

4. Science, Environment & Sports

Open-Sea Marine Fish Farming: India’s first project launched in Andaman Sea’s North Bay on Jan 20, 2026, by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh.
- Significance: Blue Economy 2047, PMMSY, NIOT’s role, and cultivation of Cobia, Silver Pompano species in India’s EEZ.
6th Khelo India Winter Games: Inaugurated in Leh, Ladakh (Jan 20-26, 2026) with 21 states/UTs participating; Figure Skating introduced as Olympic category.
- Significance: Sports Authority of India (SAI), winter sports promotion, and regional development in Himalayan territories.

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