Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: January 22, 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)
- Cabinet Extension: Atal Pension Yojana (APY) extended until FY 2030-31.
- MSME Boost: Union Cabinet approved ₹5,000 crore equity support to SIDBI.
- Diplomatic Tie: India and Spain celebrate 70 years of relations; focus on AI and Defense.
- Judicial Clarity: SC distinguishes between “irrational freebies” and “welfare investments.”
- Economic Milestone: Maharashtra secured ₹14.5 lakh crore in investment MoUs at Davos.
- Sports Victory: India defeated New Zealand by 48 runs in the 1st T20I at Nagpur.
- Internal Security: MHA directed CAPF/Police to spend 50 nights/year in border villages.
- Env. Policy: Environmental (Protection) Fund Rules, 2026 notified by the Centre.
- Urban Renaming: UP Government renamed the Governor’s residence “Jan Bhavan.”
- Space Update: Skyroot’s Kalam-250 booster arrived at Sriharikota for Vikram-1 debut.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Maharashtra Secures Record ₹14.5 Lakh Crore Investment at Davos
Summary: Maharashtra signed 19 MoUs worth ₹14.5 lakh crore on the opening day of WEF 2026.
On January 21, 2026, the Maharashtra government announced a historic achievement at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. Led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the state delegation secured investment commitments totaling ₹14.5 lakh crore through 19 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). This massive single-day haul nearly matches the state’s total collection from the entire previous year. The investments, projected to create over 15 lakh jobs, span sectors including Green Energy, AI, and Quantum Computing. Notably, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) alone signed MoUs worth ₹11 lakh crore with global firms like Brookfield. The Adani Group also outlined a $66 billion roadmap for the state, focusing on the Dharavi redevelopment and 3,000 MW data centers.
Exam Angle: Crucial for UPSC/State PSC Mains on “Investment Climate” and “Regional Development.” Note the target of Maharashtra becoming a $5 trillion economy.
Source: News on Air — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/maharashtra-govt-secures-record-breaking-rs-14-5-lakh-cr-in-investment-mous-at-wef-2026/
UP Government Renames Raj Bhavan to ‘Jan Bhavan’ to Mirror Public Service
Summary: Uttar Pradesh officially changed the name of the Governor’s residence to Jan Bhavan.
Following central government directives to standardize the nomenclature of official residences, the Uttar Pradesh government on January 21, 2026, officially renamed the Governor’s residence (formerly Raj Bhavan) as Jan Bhavan. The announcement from the state government emphasized that the name change reflects a shift toward a more people-centric governance model, moving away from colonial-era terminology. The directive stems from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs’ guidelines aimed at bringing uniformity across all Indian states. The new name, Jan Bhavan, will henceforth be used for all official and statutory purposes. This move follows a broader national trend of renaming iconic structures to align with indigenous values and democratic principles.
Exam Angle: Relevant for SSC and State PSC exams under “General Awareness” and “Administrative Reforms.”
Source: News on Air — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/up-govt-renames-governors-residence-as-jan-bhavan/
Odisha Targets ‘Ease of Doing Business’ via DBRAP 2025 and BRAP 2026
Summary: Odisha Chief Secretary reviewed the implementation of 154 reform points under the District Business Reform Action Plan.
In a high-level review meeting held in Bhubaneswar on January 21, 2026, Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg directed 24 government departments to accelerate the implementation of Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) initiatives. The focus remains on the District Business Reform Action Plan (DBRAP) 2025, which consists of 154 reform points aimed at grassroots-level delivery of approvals. Additionally, the state is preparing for the BRAP 2026 framework, which emphasizes process re-engineering and inter-departmental coordination. The Chief Secretary highlighted that simplifying regulations and rationalizing licenses under “Deregulation Phase II” is essential for positioning Odisha as a preferred investment destination. The meeting underscored the state’s commitment to strengthening the investment climate in alignment with national reform objectives.
Exam Angle: Important for exams covering “State Governance” and “Economic Reforms.”
Source: India Whispers — https://indiawhispers.com/2026/01/21/odisha-cs-anu-garg-stressed-on-implementation-of-ongoing-ease-of-doing-business-initiatives/
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Union Cabinet Extends Atal Pension Yojana (APY) until 2030-31
Summary: The Central government approved the continuation of APY with enhanced funding for unorganized workers.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on January 21, 2026, approved the extension of the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) until the end of the financial year 2030-31. Launched in May 2015, the scheme provides a guaranteed minimum pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month to workers in the unorganized sector after the age of 60. As of January 19, 2026, the scheme has enrolled over 8.66 crore subscribers. The extension includes continued funding support for promotional activities and “gap funding” to ensure the scheme’s long-term sustainability. This decision is part of the government’s “Viksit Bharat @2047” vision to ensure comprehensive social security and old-age income for low-income citizens.
Exam Angle: Significant for UPSC/Banking exams under “Social Security Schemes.” Memorize the subscriber count (8.66 crore) and the new deadline (2030-31).
Supreme Court Defines Boundary Between ‘Irrational Freebies’ and ‘Welfare’
Summary: The SC observed that state largesse for public welfare is distinct from splurging on irrational freebies.
On January 21, 2026, a Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna provided critical legal clarity on the ongoing “freebie” debate. The Court observed that “distribution of State largesse to individuals at a large scale is different from investing State largesse in public welfare schemes.” This distinction is vital for determining the fiscal responsibility of state governments. The Court’s oral observations came during a hearing on the economic impact of pre-election promises. By classifying “investment” in marginalized sections as distinct from “irrational splurging,” the SC aims to protect genuine social safety nets while curbing populist measures that threaten state exchequers. This development follows years of judicial scrutiny over the definition of “welfare” under the Directive Principles of State Policy.
Exam Angle: High relevance for UPSC Polity (Articles 37-51) and Mains discussions on “Fiscal Federalism.”
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-line-between-splurging-on-freebies-and-investing-state-largesse-for-public-welfare/article70534348.ece
MHA Orders CAPF and State Police to Spend 50 Nights in Border Villages
Summary: New directive aims to strengthen “Vibrant Villages Programme” through grassroots intelligence and community engagement.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued a directive on January 21, 2026, mandating officers from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and state police to spend at least 50 nights every year in border villages. This initiative is a strategic expansion of the Vibrant Villages Programme, designed to prevent migration from frontier areas and deepen engagement with local communities. The MHA stated that increased police presence would bolster grassroots intelligence gathering and improve the delivery of central schemes in sensitive border zones. By staying within the communities, officers are expected to build trust and address local security concerns more effectively. This policy reflects India’s focus on “border area development” as a pillar of national security.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC Internal Security and “Border Management” topics.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/latest-news-today-live-updates-world-india-cities-news-delhi-mumbai-bengaluru-01-21-2026-news-headlines-10485777/
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and Spain Celebrate 70 Years of Diplomacy with Dual-Year Initiatives
Summary: Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares met President Droupadi Murmu to discuss AI and Defence.
On January 21, 2026, H.E. Mr. Jose Manuel Albares, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Spain, called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The visit marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Spain, which is being celebrated as the “India-Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism, and Artificial Intelligence.” President Murmu highlighted Spain’s strengths in defence aerospace, renewable energy, and railways as complementary to India’s growth. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and joint counter-terrorism efforts. The President also noted that India looks forward to welcoming the Presidents of the European Council and Commission as Chief Guests for the 77th Republic Day. This meeting underscores India’s deepening strategic partnership with the European Union.
Exam Angle: Key for International Relations (Bilateral Agreements). Focus on the “Dual Year” themes: AI, Tourism, and Culture.
Source: PIB — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2216886
Donald Trump Claims India-Pakistan Truce Mediation at Davos 2026
Summary: During his address at the WEF, the US President repeated claims of brokering peace in South Asia.
Addressing the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21, 2026, US President Donald Trump claimed to have brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. In a wide-ranging speech that also touched on the acquisition of Greenland and attacks on European energy policies, Trump touted his role in ending regional conflicts. While India has consistently maintained that all issues with Pakistan are bilateral and require no third-party mediation, the President’s remarks sparked renewed global discussion on South Asian security. Trump’s speech, coinciding with the first anniversary of his second term, focused heavily on US tariffs and the “economic engine” of America. Despite his claims, Indian officials have historically rejected such mediation, adhering to the Simla Agreement.
Exam Angle: Important for understanding “India-US Relations” and the “Kashmir Dispute” in international forums.
Source: New Indian Express — https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2026/Jan/21/at-davos-trump-seeks-immediate-greenland-talks-targets-europe-repeats-india-pakistan-truce-claim
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
Cabinet Approves ₹5,000 Crore Equity Support to SIDBI for MSME Growth
Summary: Capital infusion aims to increase MSME beneficiaries to 1 crore by 2028.
On January 21, 2026, the Union Cabinet approved an equity support of ₹5,000 crore for the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). This move is designed to enhance financial assistance to the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. The infusion is expected to benefit approximately 25.74 lakh new MSME units. Government projections suggest that with this capital boost, the number of MSMEs receiving financial aid will rise from 76 lakh (at the end of FY25) to over 1 crore by the end of FY28. Currently, MSMEs contribute significantly to the economy, with 6.90 crore units generating over 30 crore jobs. This funding aligns with the government’s strategy to bolster domestic manufacturing and employment through institutional credit.
Exam Angle: Vital for Banking and Economic exams. Focus on SIDBI’s role and MSME’s contribution to GDP/Employment.
Source: News on Air — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/govt-approves-equity-support-of-rs-5-thousand-crore-to-sidbi/
Indian Rupee Hits All-Time Low of 86.69 Against US Dollar
Summary: Global jitters and a market rout pushed the Rupee to a record low on Wednesday.
The Indian Rupee settled at an all-time low of 86.69 against the US Dollar on January 21, 2026. The currency’s decline was driven by a combination of global market volatility and a sharp selloff in domestic equities, which saw the Sensex drop 271 points in a single session. Over the last three trading days, nearly ₹14 lakh crore of investor wealth has been erased. The RBI has been intervening in the forward market to manage volatility, with its net dollar sales reaching $9.7 billion in November 2025. Despite the currency’s slide, high-frequency indicators suggest that domestic growth impulses remain buoyant. Analysts attribute the current pressure to “Trump-trade” uncertainties and uneven corporate earnings in the third quarter.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Economics (Exchange Rate Management, RBI Intervention). Note the record low value of 86.69.
Source: Economic Times — https://m.economictimes.com/markets/stocks/live-blog/bse-sensex-today-nifty50-stock-market-live-updates-gift-nifty-itc-hotels-tata-capitals-share-price-21-january-2026/liveblog/126907096.cms
5. SPORTS
Abhishek Sharma’s 84 Leads India to 48-Run Win Over New Zealand
Summary: India secured a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series at Nagpur.
In the opening T20I of the series held at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur on January 21, 2026, India defeated New Zealand by 48 runs. Batting first, the hosts posted a massive total of 238/7, powered by a brutal 35-ball 84 from Abhishek Sharma. Other notable contributions came from Rinku Singh, who remained unbeaten on 44 off 20 balls, and captain Suryakumar Yadav (32). In response, New Zealand was restricted to 190/7. Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh took crucial early wickets to derail the Kiwi chase. Glenn Phillips scored a valiant fifty for the visitors, but it wasn’t enough to chase down the record target. Abhishek Sharma was named Player of the Match for his explosive start.
Exam Angle: General awareness for SSC/State exams. Note the venue (Nagpur) and top performer (Abhishek Sharma).
Source: NDTV Sports — https://sports.ndtv.com/india-vs-new-zealand-2026/ind-vs-nz-1st-t20i-live-score-india-vs-new-zealand-live-scorecard-live-updates-suryakumar-yadav-abhishek-sharma-ishan-kishan-1079859
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Ministry Notifies Environmental (Protection) Fund Rules, 2026
Summary: Penalties from Air and Water Act violations will now flow into a structured central fund.
The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the Environmental (Protection) Fund Rules, 2026 on January 21, 2026. These rules operationalize a long-dormant provision of the 1986 Act, creating a dedicated fund in the Public Account of India. Under the new rules, all environmental penalties collected under the Air Act, Water Act, and Environment (Protection) Act will be split: 75% goes to the respective State/UT, and 25% is retained by the Centre. The fund is earmarked for the assessment and remediation of environmental damage and supporting regulatory machinery. Crucially, the rules explicitly prohibit using this money for government luxuries like foreign travel or vehicle purchases. Critics, however, warn that this could institutionalize pollution as a revenue stream for regulatory bodies.
Exam Angle: Critical for UPSC Environment & Governance. Study the 75:25 fund-sharing ratio and the 1986 Act background.
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/environment/when-pollution-funds-its-police-how-will-environment-be-protected
Skyroot’s Kalam-250 Booster Arrives at Sriharikota for Vikram-1 Mission
Summary: India’s private space sector reaches a milestone as Skyroot prepares for its historic orbital debut.
On January 21, 2026, Hyderabad-based space startup Skyroot Aerospace announced the arrival of its Kalam-250 solid-stage booster at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. This booster is a critical component of the Vikram-1 rocket, which is slated for its historic first orbital launch. The Kalam-250 is one of India’s largest carbon-composite rocket motors designed by a private company. This development marks a significant step in the “NewSpace” movement in India, following the successful sub-orbital launch of Vikram-S in 2022. The upcoming Vikram-1 mission aims to place satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), showcasing India’s growing indigenous capability in private satellite launch vehicles.
Exam Angle: Relevant for “Science & Technology” (Space Sector Privatization). Note the name “Kalam-250” and the company “Skyroot.”
Source: Indian Defence News — https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2026/01/isros-triple-strategic-launch-setbacks.html
7. OTHERS
Henley Passport Index 2026: India Ranks 80th; Visa-Free Access Drops
Summary: India’s rank improved by five spots, but visa-free destinations fell from 57 to 55.
The Henley Passport Index 2026, released on January 21, 2026, placed the Indian passport at the 80th position, an improvement from its previous rank. Despite the climb in ranking, the number of destinations Indians can enter visa-free or with visa-on-arrival decreased from 57 to 55. This drop is attributed to new restrictive entry rules in Iran and Bolivia. Iran suspended its bilateral visa-free arrangement for Indians in late 2025 due to security concerns, while Bolivia transitioned to a mandatory e-visa system on January 1, 2026. The index highlights that while diplomatic standing may improve, real-world mobility remains susceptible to sudden policy changes.
Exam Angle: Frequently asked in Banking and SSC exams. Remember the Rank (80th) and number of destinations (55).
Source: VisaHQ — https://www.visahq.com/news/2026-01-20/in/indias-passport-gains-rank-but-loses-two-visa-free-destinations-in-henley-2026/
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: Core Recall Points
1. National & State Governance
- Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Extension: Extended until FY 2030-31 with 8.66 crore subscribers.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of Social Security Schemes and Government Welfare Programs.
- Supreme Court on Freebies vs. Welfare: SC distinguished between “irrational freebies” and “welfare investments.”
- Significance: Critical for UPSC Polity (Directive Principles – Articles 37-51) and Fiscal Federalism debates.
- Jan Bhavan Renaming: UP renamed Governor’s residence from Raj Bhavan to Jan Bhavan.
- Significance: Administrative Reforms and decolonization of nomenclature.
- Vibrant Villages Programme: MHA directed CAPF/Police to spend 50 nights/year in border villages.
- Significance: Internal Security, Border Management, and Community Policing.
- Odisha Business Reforms: State implementing 154 reform points under DBRAP 2025 and preparing for BRAP 2026.
- Significance: State-level Ease of Doing Business initiatives and investment climate improvement.
2. Economy & Finance
- SIDBI Equity Support: Cabinet approved ₹5,000 crore equity infusion to benefit 25.74 lakh new MSMEs.
- Significance: MSME sector growth, banking sector reforms, and employment generation (target: 1 crore beneficiaries by FY28).
- Indian Rupee All-Time Low: INR hit 86.69 against USD on January 21, 2026.
- Significance: Exchange rate management, RBI intervention, and macroeconomic stability indicators.
- Maharashtra Investment Milestone: Secured ₹14.5 lakh crore in MoUs at WEF Davos 2026 (19 MoUs signed).
- Significance: State economy, FDI trends, and sectoral investments (Green Energy, AI, Quantum Computing).
3. International Relations
- India-Spain Diplomatic Anniversary: Celebrating 70 years of relations through “Dual Year of Culture, Tourism, and AI.”
- Significance: Bilateral relations, focus on Defence Aerospace, Renewable Energy, and Technology cooperation.
- Trump’s Davos Claims: US President claimed brokering India-Pakistan ceasefire at WEF 2026.
- Significance: India-US relations, Kashmir issue, and adherence to Simla Agreement (bilateral dispute resolution).
4. Science, Environment & Sports
- Environmental (Protection) Fund Rules, 2026: Notified with 75:25 (State:Centre) penalty sharing ratio.
- Significance: Environmental governance, operationalization of 1986 Environment Protection Act, and regulatory funding.
- Skyroot’s Vikram-1 Mission: Kalam-250 booster arrived at Sriharikota for India’s private orbital launch.
- Significance: Space sector privatization, NewSpace movement, and indigenous satellite launch capability.
- India vs New Zealand T20I: India won by 48 runs; Abhishek Sharma scored 84 off 35 balls at Nagpur.
- Significance: Sports achievements and current affairs for general awareness sections.
5. Global Indices & Rankings
- Henley Passport Index 2026: India ranked 80th with access to 55 visa-free/visa-on-arrival destinations.
- Significance: Global mobility index, diplomatic standing, and changes in bilateral visa arrangements.
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