Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: January 24, 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)
- Parakram Diwas 2026: PM Modi celebrated Netaji’s birth anniversary in Andaman & Nicobar; defense exports hit ₹23,000 crore.
- Liquidity Boost: RBI announced a massive ₹1.25 trillion (₹1.25 lakh crore) infusion into the banking system.
- Forex High: India’s foreign exchange reserves surged by $14.17 billion to reach a historic $701.36 billion.
- FDI Surge: UNCTAD reported a 73% jump in FDI inflows to India, totaling $47 billion in 2025.
- e-Passport Milestone: India crossed 1 crore e-passports issued; full transition targeted by June 2035.
- Subhash Chandra Bose Award: Lt. Col. Seeta Ashok Shelke won the 2026 Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar for Wayanad relief.
- Legal Landmark: Karnataka HC ruled Section 69 of BNS cannot be used to criminalize failed consensual relationships.
- Environment Action: Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO site) in Bodh Gaya officially banned all plastic from January 23.
- Cricket Victory: India took a 2-0 lead against New Zealand in the T20 series with a 7-wicket win in Raipur.
- Diplomatic Visit: Brazilian President Lula da Silva confirmed an India visit (Feb 19-21) for defense and AI summits.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Mahabodhi Temple Banned Plastic for Eco-Friendly Pilgrimage in Bihar
Summary: The Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) enforced a total plastic ban at the UNESCO World Heritage site starting January 23.
On January 23, 2026, the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) in Bihar officially prohibited the use of plastic bottles, bags, and containers within the Mahabodhi Temple premises. This site, where Buddha attained enlightenment 2,500 years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage site (declared in 2002). BTMC Secretary Maheshweta Maharathi stated that security guards at all entry points have been directed to strictly confiscate plastic items. While the Bihar government had banned single-use plastic in July 2022, this local enforcement follows a previous Patna High Court directive that had remained unimplemented. The move aims to align the holy site with international environmental standards, catering to lakhs of annual international tourists.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Environment (Waste Management) and Art & Culture (UNESCO sites). Useful for questions on Bihar’s environmental initiatives or World Heritage conservation.
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/waste/ban-on-plastic-in-premises-of-mahabodhi-temple-in-bodh-gaya
J&K Sports Council Launched Selection Trials for Khelo India Tribal Games 2026
Summary: Phase-I open selection trials began in Jammu and Kashmir to form the state’s contingent for the upcoming national tribal games.
The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council commenced its Phase-I Open Selection Trials on January 23, 2026. These trials are designed to identify and select athletes for the J&K contingent participating in the upcoming Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, which are scheduled to be hosted in Chhattisgarh. The initiative focuses on promoting indigenous and tribal sports at the grassroots level, providing a national platform for talent from remote regions of the Union Territory. By integrating tribal youth into the mainstream competitive structure, the program aligns with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ broader “Khelo India” vision to foster a sporting culture across diverse demographics.
Exam Angle: Significant for Sports Policy and Governance in J&K. Highlights the “Khelo India” initiative and efforts toward tribal inclusion in national sports.
Source: News on Air — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/category/sports/
Karnataka High Court Limited Misuse of BNS Section 69 in Consensual Relationships
Summary: The Court ruled that criminal charges for “sexual intercourse by deceitful means” cannot be filed solely based on the failure of a consensual relationship.
The Karnataka High Court, in a significant ruling on January 23, 2026, held that Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) cannot be misused as a tool for retaliation after the breakdown of a consensual relationship. Section 69 deals with sexual intercourse through “deceitful means,” such as a false promise of marriage. The Court emphasized that for a criminal offense to be established, there must be evidence of a “mala fide” intention to deceive from the very beginning. It rejected the retroactive criminalization of relationships where consent was originally given. This judgment sets a critical precedent for the interpretation of the new criminal codes (BNS) in India, ensuring that personal liberty and the distinction between a breach of promise and a criminal act are maintained.
Exam Angle: Vital for Polity (Judiciary and Criminal Law). Essential for understanding the application of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) versus the old IPC.
Source: PMF IAS — https://www.pmfias.com/current-affairs-january-23-2026/
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
PM Modi Addressed Parakram Diwas 2026; Defense Exports Topped ₹23,000 Crore
Summary: Marking Netaji’s birth anniversary, PM Modi highlighted India’s self-reliance in defense during a program in Andaman & Nicobar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation via video conferencing on January 23, 2026, to celebrate Parakram Diwas, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Speaking from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Prime Minister noted that India’s defense exports have now crossed ₹23,000 crore, reflecting the success of the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign. He emphasized that a resolute nation must manage power responsibly and mentioned that indigenously built BrahMos missiles are gaining significant global traction. The PM also highlighted the historical significance of Cellular Jail and Netaji’s vision of a strong, modern India. January 23 was declared Parakram Diwas in 2021 to honor Bose’s legacy.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Defense (Atmanirbhar Bharat), History (Freedom Struggle/Netaji), and Governance. Key data: ₹23,000 crore defense exports.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2217768
India Issued One Crore e-Passports; Full Transition Targeted by June 2035
Summary: The Ministry of External Affairs hit a major digital milestone with 10 million encrypted e-passports now in circulation.
As of January 23, 2026, the Government of India has issued nearly one crore (10 million) e-passports since the nationwide launch in 2024. These upgraded passports feature an embedded electronic chip containing biometric data, making them highly resistant to forgery and tampering. The transition is part of the Ministry of External Affairs’ “Passport Seva 2.0” project. During a status update, officials confirmed that all new applications and renewals are now automatically processed as e-passports. The government aims to complete the national transition and phase out traditional machine-readable passports entirely by June 2035. Key advantages include faster immigration clearance via automated e-gates at international airports, enhancing the ease of travel for Indian citizens.
Exam Angle: Important for Governance and Digital India. Highlights advances in technology-led public service delivery and internal security.
Source: PMF IAS — https://www.pmfias.com/current-affairs-january-23-2026/
Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2026 Announced
Summary: Lt. Col. Seeta Ashok Shelke was honored for her leadership during the 2024 Wayanad landslide rescue operations.
On the occasion of Parakram Diwas, January 23, 2026, the Government of India announced the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar for 2026. In the individual category, the award was conferred upon Lieutenant Colonel Seeta Ashok Shelke. She was recognized for her exemplary leadership in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations during the 2024 Wayanad landslides in Kerala. Specifically, she supervised the rapid construction of a 190-foot Bailey bridge at Chooralmala, which was critical for restoring connectivity and saving lives. The award, instituted to recognize selfless service in disaster management, carries a cash prize of ₹5 lakh and a certificate for individuals, and ₹51 lakh for institutions.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Awards & Honours and Disaster Management (GS Paper 3). Lt. Col. Shelke is a key name for exams.
Source: PMF IAS — https://www.pmfias.com/current-affairs-january-23-2026/
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
UNCTAD Reported 73% Surge in FDI Inflows to India for 2025
Summary: India’s Foreign Direct Investment rose to $47 billion in 2025, driven by manufacturing and supply chain integration.
According to a report released by UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) on January 23, 2026, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows into India surged by 73% to reach $47 billion in the year 2025. This growth was primarily fueled by significant investments in the services, IT, R&D, and manufacturing sectors. The report noted that India’s proactive policies to integrate into global supply chains have made it an attractive destination amid global economic shifts. This data contrasts with several other emerging economies that saw stagnant FDI during the same period. The surge reflects global investor confidence in India’s long-term economic stability and the success of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes.
Exam Angle: Critical for Economy and International Relations. Key figure: 73% growth, $47 billion total. Useful for questions on India’s global economic standing.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/fdi-inflows-to-india-surged-in-2025-un-report-investments-126012301263_1.html
Brazil’s President Lula to Visit India in February 2026 for Strategic Deals
Summary: President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will visit New Delhi from Feb 19-21 to expand defense and critical minerals cooperation.
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on January 23, 2026, that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will undertake a state visit to India from February 19 to 21. The visit aims to strengthen the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership, with a focus on defense, critical minerals, and energy. During the visit, President Lula is expected to inaugurate an “ApexBrasil” trade office in New Delhi and attend the Global AI World Summit. Key discussions will involve collaboration on ethanol-based fuels and the exploration of lithium and other rare-earth elements. This bilateral engagement is seen as a major step in Global South cooperation, following the successful synergy between India and Brazil during their consecutive G20 presidencies.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Bilateral Relations (India-Brazil). Focus on critical minerals and defense cooperation is a high-yield topic for mains.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy
India and EU Aim to Conclude Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by January 27
Summary: Negotiators are in the final phase of talks, aiming for a landmark announcement at the upcoming New Delhi summit.
On January 23, 2026, reports from New Delhi indicated that India and the European Union (EU) are entering the “final and most difficult” phase of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. Both parties are working to resolve outstanding issues regarding dairy, automobiles, and labor standards, with the goal of announcing the conclusion of talks during the India-EU Summit scheduled for January 27, 2026, in New Delhi. At the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signaled that an agreement is close. This pact is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade, which currently stands at over €120 billion. For India, the FTA is crucial to securing better market access for its services and textile sectors.
Exam Angle: High importance for Economy and International Relations. Focus on India-EU trade relations and the challenges of concluding large-scale FTAs.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI Announced ₹1.25 Trillion Liquidity Injection to Ease Banking Stress
Summary: The Reserve Bank of India launched a multi-pronged strategy to infuse ₹1.25 lakh crore into the system to stabilize money market rates.
On January 23, 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a massive liquidity infusion of ₹1.25 trillion (₹1.25 lakh crore) into the banking system. The move follows a review of prevailing market conditions where liquidity had tightened due to seasonal tax outflows and high government cash balances. The intervention includes two tranches of Open Market Operations (OMO) worth ₹1 trillion (₹1 lakh crore) on February 5 and 12, a 90-day Variable Rate Repo (VRR) of ₹25,000 crore on January 30, and a $10 billion USD/INR buy-sell swap on February 4. This liquidity boost aims to soften bond yields and reduce borrowing costs for banks, ensuring that credit growth remains stable despite record-high credit-to-deposit ratios.
Exam Angle: Vital for Economy (Banking and Monetary Policy). Key tools: OMO, VRR, and USD/INR Swap. Essential for understanding RBI’s liquidity management.
Source: PSU Watch — https://psuwatch.com/newsupdates/rbi-announces-liquidity-injection-measures-of-over-rs-2-lakh-crore
India’s Forex Reserves Reached Record High of $701.36 Billion
Summary: Reserves jumped by $14.17 billion in a single week, crossing the $700 billion milestone for the first time.
According to the Reserve Bank of India’s weekly statistical supplement released on January 23, 2026, India’s foreign exchange reserves surged to an all-time high of $701.36 billion for the week ending January 16. This represents a massive increase of $14.17 billion from the previous week. The growth was driven by a $9.65 billion rise in Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs), which reached $560.52 billion, and a $4.62 billion increase in gold holdings, now valued at $117.45 billion. Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) saw a marginal dip. This historic level of reserves provides a strong cushion against global economic volatility and currency fluctuations, reinforcing India’s external sector stability.
Exam Angle: Significant for Economy (External Sector). Key data: $701.36 billion. Useful for analyzing India’s balance of payments and economic resilience.
Source: Economic Times — https://m.economictimes.com/news/economy/indicators/indias-forex-reserves-up-by-14-17-billion-to-701-36-billion-as-of-january-16/articleshow/127273918.cms
India Revamped Quarterly GDP Estimates to Include GST and e-Vahan Data
Summary: The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) will now use real-time digital indicators for more accurate growth tracking.
On January 23, 2026, the Indian government announced a major overhaul of its quarterly Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimation methodology. The revamped series will now incorporate high-frequency data from GST collections, e-Vahan (vehicle registration) portal, and natural gas consumption. This shift follows recommendations from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to adopt more granular and real-time indicators to reduce data volatility and improve forecasting accuracy. By moving away from traditional proxy indicators, the new method aims to capture the dynamic nature of India’s digital economy more effectively. The Ministry stated that this will provide a more realistic picture of economic health for policymakers and investors alike, starting from the current fiscal cycle.
Exam Angle: Important for Economy (National Income Accounting). Highlights the use of “Big Data” in governance and economic planning.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy
5. SPORTS
India Beat New Zealand by 7 Wickets in Raipur; Lead T20 Series 2-0
Summary: Ishan Kishan’s fastest T20 half-century against NZ and Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 82 led India to a record-breaking chase.
In a high-scoring encounter on January 23, 2026, India defeated New Zealand by seven wickets at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. Chasing a target of 209, India reached 209/3 in just 15.2 overs, marking the fastest successful chase of a 200+ total by a full ICC member. Ishan Kishan smashed 76 off 32 balls, including a record-breaking half-century off 21 balls (the fastest for India against New Zealand). Captain Suryakumar Yadav anchored the finish with a blistering 82 not out off 37 balls. Earlier, New Zealand posted 208/6, led by Mitchell Santner’s 47. India now leads the five-match series 2-0, with the third match scheduled for Sunday in Guwahati.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports (Cricket records). Key stats: Fastest 200+ chase in T20Is; Ishan Kishan’s record 50.
Source: Las Vegas Sun (AP) — https://lasvegassun.com/news/2026/jan/23/kishan-and-yadav-blast-new-zealand-for-india-to-le/
PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen Reached Indonesia Masters Quarterfinals
Summary: India’s top badminton stars advanced in the Jakarta tournament with straight-set wins in their respective Round of 16 matches.
Top Indian shuttlers PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen secured their spots in the quarterfinals of the Indonesia Masters badminton tournament in Jakarta on January 23, 2026. Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu displayed clinical form to overcome her opponent in straight sets, while Lakshya Sen continued his strong run by defeating a higher-seeded player in the men’s singles category. This performance is a significant boost for the Indian contingent ahead of the 2026 Asian Games. The tournament, a BWF World Tour event, is crucial for ranking points. Both players are looking to regain top form after a mixed 2025 season, and their progress in Jakarta signals a positive start to the 2026 competitive calendar.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports (Badminton achievements). Focus on prominent Indian athletes and international tournaments.
Source: News on Air — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/category/sports/
ICC Rejected Bangladesh’s Request to Shift T20 World Cup Matches from India
Summary: The International Cricket Council confirmed that the upcoming T20 World Cup fixtures will proceed in India as scheduled.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) officially rejected the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) request to move its team’s T20 World Cup matches out of India. On January 23, 2026, the ICC stated that the tournament will proceed exactly as scheduled, with all venues in India ready for the event. The BCB had earlier expressed concerns and requested a move to Sri Lanka or a neutral venue, but the ICC emphasized that India has met all security and logistical requirements. In response to potential boycotts, the ICC also informed the BCB that if they fail to participate, they will be replaced by Scotland for the tournament. This decision settles the uncertainty surrounding the tournament’s hosting duties.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports Governance and International Bodies. Highlights the role of the ICC and India’s status as a premier sports host.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-january-23-2026-army-vehicle-falls-into-gorge-trump-unveils-board-of-peace-10488892/
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
ISRO Chairman Outlined 2047 Vision; 2026-27 Designated as “Gaganyaan Year”
Summary: Dr. V. Narayanan emphasized failure as a learning tool and confirmed the progress of India’s human spaceflight mission.
Addressing the National Institute of Design (NID) on January 23, 2026, ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan designated 2026-27 as the “Gaganyaan Year.” He confirmed that the human spaceflight mission is on track for 2027, with 2026 focusing on critical uncrewed tests. Dr. Narayanan highlighted ISRO’s ability to transform setbacks, such as the recent PSLV-C62 anomaly, into learning opportunities. Looking further ahead, he detailed plans for the Chandrayaan-4 mission in 2027 (aimed at lunar sample return), an independent Indian space station by 2035, and a crewed lunar landing by 2040. He urged young designers to focus on ergonomics for the Gaganyaan crew module, emphasizing that imagination and determination are more critical than financial resources for innovation.
Exam Angle: Critical for Science & Tech (Space Exploration). Key milestones: Gaganyaan (2027), Chandrayaan-4 (2027), Space Station (2035), Moon Landing (2040).
Source: Indian Defence News — https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2026/01/isro-chairman-urges-designers-to.html
Gita Gopinath Warned: Pollution Cost Higher Than Trade Tariffs for India
Summary: At the WEF, the former IMF Chief Economist called for reframing environmental policy as essential economic policy.
During the World Economic Forum on January 23, 2026, Harvard economist and former IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath issued a stark warning regarding India’s air pollution crisis. She stated that the economic cost of unchecked pollution—linked to 1.7 million deaths annually in India—is a greater threat to the economy than trade tariffs. Gopinath noted that pollution accounts for nearly 18% of total deaths in India, leading to a massive “hidden tax” through lost productivity, healthcare costs, and erosion of human capital. She urged the government to integrate environmental targets directly into economic planning, arguing that “nature-positive growth” is no longer optional but a prerequisite for sustainable GDP growth in the 21st century.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Environment and Economy (Sustainable Development). Provides a strong data point (1.7 million deaths/18% of total) for Mains answers.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/gita-gopinath-cost-of-pollution-is-higher-than-any-tariff-10491167/
UNEP Report: World Spends 30x More Destroying Nature Than Protecting It
Summary: The “State of Finance for Nature 2026” report revealed a $7.3 trillion flow into nature-negative activities worldwide.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released “The State of Finance for Nature 2026” on January 23, 2026, highlighting a massive imbalance in global finance. The report estimates that $7.3 trillion is invested annually in activities that drive ecosystem degradation (nature-negative), while only $220 billion goes toward Nature-based Solutions (NbS). This creates a staggering 30:1 ratio. Private sources contribute $4.9 trillion of the negative flow, concentrated in utilities, energy, and agriculture. The report also warned that geopolitical tensions are squeezing Official Development Finance (ODF) budgets, which could further reduce funds available for climate and biodiversity action in developing economies like India. UNEP called for an urgent “Big Nature Turnaround” to align financial systems with restoration goals.
Exam Angle: Important for Environment and Global Reports. Key data: $7.3 trillion negative vs $220 billion positive. Useful for Sustainable Finance topics.
Source: New Indian Express — https://www.newindianexpress.com/xplore/2026/Jan/23/nature-in-the-red-world-spends-30-times-more-money-destroying-nature-than-protecting-it-unep-report/
7. OTHERS
Supreme Court Dismissed “Frivolous” Petition Against BCCI’s Official Status
Summary: The Apex Court rejected a plea seeking to stop the BCCI from being projected as the representative of the official Indian cricket team.
On January 23, 2026, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a petition that sought to prevent the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from representing itself as the “official” national team of India. The bench termed the petition “frivolous” and upheld the long-standing status quo where the BCCI, though a private body, is recognized by the government and international bodies as the governing authority for cricket in the country. The petitioner had argued that a private entity should not use the name “India” or the national flag. However, the Court reiterated that the current system is well-established and does not violate constitutional norms. This ruling provides legal clarity and stability to the administration of sports in India.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Polity and Sports Law. Clarifies the legal standing of national sports federations in India.
Source: News on Air — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/category/sports/
Vice President Authored Article on Netaji’s Strong Tamil Nadu Connection
Summary: On Parakram Diwas, VP C.P. Radhakrishnan highlighted Netaji’s historic 1939 visit to Madurai and his bond with Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar.
On January 23, 2026, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan authored a special article titled “Netaji and the Tamil Soil,” which was shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The article details the deep association of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose with Tamil Nadu, particularly his 1939 visit to Madurai following his resignation from the Congress presidency. It highlights Netaji’s close friendship with the legendary leader Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar, who played a pivotal role in mobilizing thousands of Tamil youth for the Indian National Army (INA). The article serves to highlight the pan-Indian nature of the freedom struggle and the specific contribution of Southern India to Netaji’s mission, providing rich historical context for students of modern Indian history.
Exam Angle: Relevant for History (Freedom Struggle) and Culture. Useful for understanding regional contributions to the national movement and Netaji’s INA.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2217849
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)
1. National & State Governance
- Parakram Diwas 2026: PM Modi celebrated Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary (January 23); defense exports crossed ₹23,000 crore.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of National Days, Freedom Struggle icons, and Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense sector.
- Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2217768
- e-Passport Milestone: India issued 1 crore e-passports; complete transition targeted by June 2035 under Passport Seva 2.0.
- Significance: Relevant for Digital India, e-Governance, and Border Management topics.
- Source: https://www.pmfias.com/current-affairs-january-23-2026/
- Karnataka HC Ruling on BNS Section 69: Court held that failed consensual relationships cannot be criminalized under Section 69 (sexual intercourse by deceitful means).
- Significance: Critical for understanding Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) application, criminal jurisprudence, and personal liberty under Article 21.
- Source: https://www.pmfias.com/current-affairs-january-23-2026/
- Mahabodhi Temple Plastic Ban: BTMC enforced total plastic ban at UNESCO World Heritage site in Bodh Gaya starting January 23, 2026.
- Significance: Important for Environment (Waste Management), UNESCO sites, and state-level environmental initiatives in Bihar.
- Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/waste/ban-on-plastic-in-premises-of-mahabodhi-temple-in-bodh-gaya
- Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 Trials: J&K Sports Council began Phase-I selection trials for Chhattisgarh-hosted national tribal games.
- Significance: Highlights tribal welfare, grassroots sports development, and Khelo India initiative implementation.
- Source: https://www.newsonair.gov.in/category/sports/
- Supreme Court on BCCI Status: SC dismissed petition against BCCI’s official status, upholding its recognition as India’s cricket governing body.
- Significance: Clarifies legal standing of sports federations and relationship between private bodies and national representation.
- Source: https://www.newsonair.gov.in/category/sports/
2. Economy & Finance
- RBI Liquidity Injection: Announced ₹1.25 trillion infusion through OMO (₹1 lakh crore), VRR (₹25,000 crore), and USD/INR swap ($10 billion).
- Significance: Core topic for Monetary Policy, Banking Sector reforms, and RBI’s liquidity management tools.
- Source: https://psuwatch.com/newsupdates/rbi-announces-liquidity-injection-measures-of-over-rs-2-lakh-crore
- Forex Reserves Record High: India’s foreign exchange reserves reached $701.36 billion (up $14.17 billion), with FCAs at $560.52 billion and gold at $117.45 billion.
- Significance: Key indicator of macroeconomic stability, external sector strength, and balance of payments position.
- Source: https://m.economictimes.com/news/economy/indicators/indias-forex-reserves-up-by-14-17-billion-to-701-36-billion-as-of-january-16/articleshow/127273918.cms
- GDP Estimation Revamp: MoSPI now incorporates GST, e-Vahan, and natural gas data for quarterly GDP calculations following IMF recommendations.
- Significance: Important for National Income Accounting, Big Data in governance, and economic forecasting methodology.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/economy
- FDI Surge to India: UNCTAD reported 73% jump in FDI inflows to $47 billion in 2025, driven by services, IT, R&D, and manufacturing.
- Significance: Critical for understanding India’s global economic positioning and success of PLI schemes.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/fdi-inflows-to-india-surged-in-2025-un-report-investments-126012301263_1.html
3. International Relations & Defence
- Brazil President’s India Visit: Lula da Silva to visit India (Feb 19-21) for defense, critical minerals, and AI cooperation; will inaugurate ApexBrasil office and attend Global AI Summit.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of bilateral partnerships, Global South cooperation, and strategic resource diplomacy.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/economy
- India-EU FTA Negotiations: Final phase underway; announcement expected at India-EU Summit on January 27, 2026, in New Delhi.
- Significance: Major development in trade diplomacy; bilateral trade currently at €120 billion.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/economy
- Defense Exports Milestone: India’s defense exports crossed ₹23,000 crore; BrahMos missiles gaining global traction.
- Significance: Reflects Atmanirbhar Bharat’s success and India’s emergence as defense exporter.
- Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2217768
4. Science, Environment & Technology
- ISRO’s 2047 Vision: Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan designated 2026-27 as “Gaganyaan Year”; timeline includes Gaganyaan (2027), Chandrayaan-4 (2027), Space Station (2035), Crewed Moon Landing (2040).
- Significance: Critical for Space Programme, technological self-reliance, and long
09:47
-term scientific missions.
- Source: https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2026/01/isro-chairman-urges-designers-to.html
- Pollution Economic Impact: Gita Gopinath (former IMF Chief Economist) warned pollution costs exceed trade tariffs; 1.7 million deaths annually in India (18% of total deaths).
- Significance: Links environment with economics; useful for Sustainable Development and policy integration questions.
- Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/gita-gopinath-cost-of-pollution-is-higher-than-any-tariff-10491167/
- UNEP Finance for Nature Report: $7.3 trillion invested in nature-negative activities vs $220 billion in Nature-based Solutions (30:1 ratio).
- Significance: Important global report on environmental finance, climate action, and sustainable development funding gaps.
- Source: https://www.newindianexpress.com/xplore/2026/Jan/23/nature-in-the-red-world-spends-30-times-more-money-destroying-nature-than-protecting-it-unep-report/
5. Awards, Sports & Culture
- Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2026: Lt. Col. Seeta Ashok Shelke awarded for 2024 Wayanad landslide relief (constructed 190-foot Bailey bridge at Chooralmala).
- Significance: Key for Awards & Honours; highlights disaster management leadership and HADR operations.
- Source: https://www.pmfias.com/current-affairs-january-23-2026/
- India vs New Zealand T20 Series: India won by 7 wickets in Raipur; fastest chase of 200+ total (15.2 overs); Ishan Kishan’s 76 off 32 balls (50 off 21 balls – fastest for India vs NZ); Suryakumar Yadav 82* off 37; series lead 2-0.
- Significance: Cricket records and international sporting achievements.
- Source: https://lasvegassun.com/news/2026/jan/23/kishan-and-yadav-blast-new-zealand-for-india-to-le/
- Badminton Indonesia Masters: PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen reached quarterfinals with straight-set wins in Jakarta.
- Significance: Tracks major sporting achievements and BWF World Tour events.
- Source: https://www.newsonair.gov.in/category/sports/
- ICC on T20 World Cup: Rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift matches from India; threatened replacement with Scotland if BCB boycotts.
- Significance: Highlights ICC governance, India’s sports hosting capabilities, and international sports diplomacy.
- Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-january-23-2026-army-vehicle-falls-into-gorge-trump-unveils-board-of-peace-10488892/
- Netaji’s Tamil Nadu Connection: VP C.P. Radhakrishnan’s article highlighted Netaji’s 1939 Madurai visit and ties with Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar for INA mobilization.
- Significance: Regional contributions to Freedom Struggle; useful for understanding pan-Indian nationalist movement.
- Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2217849
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