Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: January 27, 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)
- Chief Guests: EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa attended the 77th Republic Day.
- Ashoka Chakra: Awarded to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian on the ISS.
- Theme: The 2026 Republic Day parade was themed “150 Years of Vande Mataram.”
- Defense Debut: DRDO’s Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) and “Suryastra” showcased.
- Economy: India and the EU successfully concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.
- State Policy: Goa announced plans to ban social media for children under the age of 16.
- Padma Awards: Posthumous honors for Dharmendra Deol and Shibu Soren; Uday Kotak awarded.
- Space Milestone: Group Captain Shukla completed 60+ experiments during the Axiom-4 mission.
- Sports: Indian Army retained the Ice Hockey gold at the Khelo India Winter Games 2026.
- Tragedy: A massive fire at a Kolkata warehouse claimed 7 lives on Republic Day morning.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Goa Government Proposes Ban on Social Media for Children Under 16
Summary: Goa is studying a policy to restrict social media access for minors.
On January 26, 2026, Goa’s IT Minister Rohan Khaunte announced that the state government is actively studying a proposal to ban social media usage for children under the age of 16. Speaking in Panaji, the Minister cited growing concerns from parents regarding excessive screen time and mental health. The state’s IT department has reportedly begun analyzing the “Online Safety Amendment Act” recently implemented by Australia as a blueprint for the local legislation. Khaunte emphasized that in the era of Artificial Intelligence, children need fewer digital distractions to focus on education. The proposal will be discussed with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant before being introduced in the upcoming Assembly session. If implemented, Goa would become the first Indian state to enforce such a strict age-based digital restriction, following a similar move being considered by Andhra Pradesh.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper II (Governance) and Paper III (Internal Security/Digital Ethics). Note the “Australia Model” as a reference for social media regulation.
Source: The New Indian Express
URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/Jan/26/goa-government-likely-to-ban-social-media-use-for-children-under-16
Tribal Long March Reaches Mumbai-Nashik Highway on Republic Day
Summary: Thousands of tribal protesters celebrated Republic Day while marching for land rights.
Thousands of tribal residents from across Maharashtra continued their “Long March” toward Mumbai on January 26, 2026, reaching the Nashik-Mumbai highway. The protesters, who began their journey on January 25, are demanding the immediate implementation of the Forest Rights Act and land titles that have been pending for years. Despite a meeting with Minister Girish Mahajan, who urged them to halt the protest, the marchers refused to stop until they met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. In a symbolic gesture, the protesters hoisted the National Flag on the leading truck of their convoy to mark the 77th Republic Day. The march highlights the ongoing friction between tribal communities and the state government over rehabilitation plans and land ownership. The administration has offered a high-level meeting on January 27 to resolve the grievances, but the protesters remain steadfast in their movement toward the state capital.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper II (Social Justice) and issues related to the Scheduled Tribes and Forest Rights Act (2006).
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/long-march-to-mumbai-protesters-march-towards-mumbai-refuse-to-stop-without-meeting-cm/article70553800.ece
Tragic Warehouse Fire in Kolkata Claims Seven Lives on Republic Day
Summary: A massive blaze in a dry food warehouse in Nazirabad led to 7 deaths.
On January 26, 2026, a devastating fire broke out at a dry food warehouse in the Nazirabad area of Kolkata, West Bengal. The blaze started around 3:00 AM, rapidly engulfing the four-story structure and two adjacent buildings due to the presence of highly combustible packaging materials. Seven people were confirmed dead, while over 20 others sustained injuries. Nearly 15 fire tenders were deployed to the site, and rescue operations continued throughout the day as several workers were feared trapped inside the basement. Local residents alleged the warehouse had been locked from the outside, which prevented night-shift workers and security guards from escaping. West Bengal authorities have ordered a forensic probe to determine the cause, with preliminary reports suggesting a short circuit. The incident has raised questions about fire safety compliance in the city’s industrial hubs during the national holiday.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper III (Disaster Management) and urban planning safety regulations.
Source: National Herald
URL: https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/kolkata-7-killed-many-feared-trapped-as-fire-guts-dry-food-warehouse
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
President Murmu Confers Ashoka Chakra on Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla
Summary: India’s highest peacetime gallantry award was given to the nation’s latest space hero.
During the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Ashoka Chakra upon Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. This marks the first time an astronaut has received India’s highest peacetime gallantry award since Rakesh Sharma in 1985. Shukla, a fighter pilot with over 2,000 flying hours, was recognized for his “conspicuous bravery” during the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2025. During his 18-day stay in orbit, he conducted over 60 complex scientific experiments, including studies on space anemia and protein crystal growth. The citation highlighted his exceptional calm and skill while piloting the SpaceX Dragon “Grace” and managing high-stakes microgravity operations. Hailing from Lucknow, Shukla is now the leading candidate for India’s upcoming crewed Gaganyaan mission. His achievement symbolizes India’s transition from being a satellite-launching nation to a prominent player in human spaceflight.
Exam Angle: Significant for GS Paper III (Science & Tech) and Prelims (Awards and Honours). Note the 41-year gap between the two astronaut awardees.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/president-droupadi-murmu-confers-ashoka-chakra-to-space-hero-shubhanshu-shukla/article70552025.ece
Republic Day Parade 2026 Showcases “150 Years of Vande Mataram”
Summary: The 77th Republic Day parade combined historic themes with futuristic military tech.
On January 26, 2026, the Kartavya Path in New Delhi hosted a grand 90-minute parade themed “150 Years of Vande Mataram.” The event celebrated the 150th anniversary of the national song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. President Droupadi Murmu took the salute, accompanied by Chief Guests Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa. For the first time, the Indian Army showcased a “Phased Battle Array” format, emphasizing integrated air-land operations. Major indigenously-built weapon systems, including the BrahMos missile, the Akash air defense system, and the new “Suryastra” rocket launcher, were on display. The parade also featured 30 tableaux, with the Gujarat tableau highlighting the role of “Vande Mataram” in the Swadeshi movement. Around 10,000 special guests, including beneficiaries of government schemes like PM-SYM and the Deep Ocean Mission, were invited to witness the event, promoting the government’s vision of “Jan Bhagidari” (People’s Participation).
Exam Angle: Critical for Prelims (Theme, Chief Guests, New Weapons). GS Paper I (Culture) relevance due to the Vande Mataram anniversary.
Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2218449
Operation Sindoor Legacy Highlighted in Republic Day Military Display
Summary: Military columns featured equipment used in the 2025 “Operation Sindoor” conflict.
The 77th Republic Day parade on January 26, 2026, placed a spotlight on the weapon systems that played a decisive role in “Operation Sindoor”—a high-intensity military operation conducted in May 2025. The display included the Arjun Main Battle Tank, BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, and the Nag missile system (Tracked) Mk-2. A glass-cased integrated operational command centre was also featured to visually depict the coordination between the S-400 air defense shield and offensive BrahMos strikes during the conflict. Additionally, the Indian Air Force fly-past, consisting of 29 aircraft, performed the “Sindoor Formation” with Rafale and Su-30 MKI jets. This inclusion serves to demonstrate India’s “battlefield-ready” capability and the effectiveness of its indigenous defense production. The parade was commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, and it marked the first appearance of robotic dogs and autonomous unmanned ground vehicles in a Republic Day contingent.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Defense and Internal Security). Understand the strategic context of “Operation Sindoor” and indigenous platforms.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/77th-republic-day-celebrations-on-kartavya-path/article70552016.ece
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and European Union Conclude Free Trade Agreement Negotiations
Summary: After 18 years of talks, the “Mother of all deals” reaches a successful conclusion.
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal confirmed on January 26, 2026, that India and the European Union have successfully concluded negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The announcement came as EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa arrived in New Delhi for the 16th India-EU Summit. The agreement, which covers over 90% of traded goods, is expected to significantly reduce tariffs on Indian textiles and leather while granting the EU better access to the Indian automobile and wine markets. A key concession involves India slashing import duties on select EU-made cars from 110% to 40%. The deal also includes chapters on digital trade, sustainability, and a dedicated Security and Defence Partnership to be signed on January 27. Agrawal described the pact as “balanced and forward-looking,” marking the end of a process that began in 2007. The FTA is projected to create a free trade area encompassing nearly 2 billion people.
Exam Angle: Vital for GS Paper II (International Relations). Focus on India-EU bilateral ties and the “Security and Defence Partnership” pillar.
Source: ANI News
URL: https://www.aninews.in/news/business/india-eu-fta-negotiations-conclude-successfully-to-be-announced-on-tuesday-commerce-secretary20260126202725
EU Leaders Attend Republic Day as India’s Chief Guests
Summary: Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa emphasize the “historic” India-EU bond.
In a significant diplomatic gesture, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, served as the Chief Guests for India’s 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026. This was the first time two top EU leaders were invited together for the ceremony. The leaders arrived at Kartavya Path in a traditional horse-drawn buggy alongside President Droupadi Murmu. Their presence underscored the deepening strategic partnership between India and the European bloc, particularly in the fields of technology, maritime security, and green energy. During the visit, Von der Leyen noted that a “successful India” is in the world’s interest. The visit coincided with the finalization of the India-EU FTA, highlighting a shift toward diversifying trade away from China. The leaders are also scheduled to co-chair the India-EU Summit on January 27 to discuss global governance and the “India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor” (IMEC).
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper II (Bilateral Groupings). Note the significance of having two EU heads as Chief Guests simultaneously.
Source: Livemint
URL: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/republic-day-2026-live-updates-77th-r-day-celebration-parade-droupadi-murmu-pm-modi-iaf-army-fighter-jets-11769356814446.html
India Receives Global Greetings for 77th Republic Day
Summary: Prime Minister Modi thanked world leaders for their wishes on the national day.
On January 26, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude to several world leaders who extended their congratulations on India’s 77th Republic Day. Notable well-wishers included French President Emmanuel Macron, Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay, and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi emphasized the “deepening and diversifying” strategic partnership with France. Similarly, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar thanked his counterparts from Australia, the Maldives, and Armenia. The global outreach during Republic Day serves as a platform for “soft power” diplomacy, with several Indian embassies worldwide organizing cultural events to showcase the theme of “Vande Mataram.” The presence of EU leaders as Chief Guests in Delhi further highlighted India’s growing influence in the multipolar world order. These diplomatic exchanges reinforce India’s commitment to “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family) while securing national interests through bilateral cooperation.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper II (Foreign Policy). Understand how national celebrations are used as diplomatic tools.
Source: The Hindu
URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/77th-republic-day-2026-celebrations-president-murmu-parade-kartavya-path-january-26-2026/article70550889.ece
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
India’s Forex Reserves Surge to $701 Billion by Mid-January
Summary: Robust gold and foreign currency assets have pushed reserves to a historic high.
According to data referenced on January 26, 2026, India’s foreign exchange reserves rose by over $14 billion to reach a total of $701 billion as of the week ending January 16. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) attributed this surge to a significant increase in gold reserves, which now stand at $117.454 billion. The upward trend in gold prices, driven by global economic uncertainties and robust investment demand, contributed $4.623 billion to the total increase. The RBI remains confident in the resilience of India’s external sector, noting that the current reserves are sufficient to cover more than 11 months of merchandise imports. This milestone provides a substantial buffer against rupee volatility, especially as the central bank continues to manage short-dollar positions in the forward market. Financial analysts suggest that the “GIFT City” initiative is also playing a key role in aligning India’s economic growth with global financial ambitions.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper III (Economy). Monitor the components of Forex reserves and the “Merchandise Import Cover” ratio.
Source: DD News
URL: https://ddnews.gov.in/en/indias-forex-reserves-rise-over-14-billion-to-701-billion-as-of-january-16/
RBI Recognizes FEDAI as Self-Regulatory Organization for Forex Dealers
Summary: The Foreign Exchange Dealers’ Association of India (FEDAI) gains SRO status.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has officially recognized the Foreign Exchange Dealers’ Association of India (FEDAI) as a Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO) for authorized dealers. As of January 2026, FEDAI has been given one year to align its internal governance and operational frameworks with the RBI’s “Omnibus SRO Framework.” This move is aimed at enhancing market integrity and ensuring better compliance within the foreign exchange market. By granting SRO status, the RBI intends to delegate some oversight responsibilities to the industry body, allowing for more agile and expert-led regulation of daily forex operations. This transition is expected to streamline the reporting process for banks and authorized dealers, thereby reducing the direct regulatory burden on the central bank. FEDAI will now play a more proactive role in setting conduct standards and resolving disputes among market participants, further maturing India’s financial regulatory landscape.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper III (Banking/Economy) and Prelims (Regulatory bodies). Understand the “Omnibus SRO Framework.”
Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/topic/economy
Budget 2026: Salaried Taxpayers Split Over New vs. Old Regime
Summary: Ahead of the February 1 Budget, focus shifts to income tax deductions.
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present the Union Budget 2026-27 on February 1, recent reports on January 26, 2026, indicate a deepening divide among salaried taxpayers regarding the tax regimes. While the government has been pushing for the “New Tax Regime” with lower slab rates but no exemptions, many taxpayers still prefer the “Old Regime” due to the benefits of Section 80C and HRA deductions. Analysts suggest that the upcoming Budget may need to introduce further incentives to make the new regime more attractive, such as increasing the standard deduction or adjusting the highest tax bracket. On the corporate front, industries like Vedanta’s “Sesa Goa” are urging for policy pushes in the Budget for low-grade iron ore beneficiation to boost domestic steel supply. The BSE and NSE have announced that they will conduct live trading sessions on Sunday, February 1, to coincide with the Budget presentation, reflecting its significance for market sentiment.
Exam Angle: Significant for GS Paper III (Fiscal Policy/Budget). Focus on the “Direct Tax” trends and the difference between tax regimes.
Source: Business Standard
URL: https://www.business-standard.com/topic/budget-2026
5. SPORTS
Indian Army Retains Ice Hockey Gold at Khelo India Winter Games 2026
Summary: A thrilling 3-2 victory over Chandigarh secured the title for the Army in Leh.
The Indian Army team successfully defended their men’s Ice Hockey gold medal at the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2026 on January 26, 2026. Playing at the NDS Stadium in Leh, Ladakh, the Army defeated a spirited Chandigarh side 3-2 in a final that went down to the wire. Padma Namgail opened the scoring for the Army in the sixth minute, but Chandigarh mounted a fierce comeback to level the score at 2-2 in the closing stages. The match-winner was finally scored by Padma Norboo with just three minutes remaining on the clock. The victory was celebrated by a capacity crowd of 5,000 on Republic Day. Following the conclusion of the Ladakh leg, Haryana emerged as the overall champions of the phase, primarily due to their dominance in figure skating and ice skating events, where they secured four gold medals. The event has been hailed as a major success for winter sports development in the Himalayan region.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Prelims (Sports/Khelo India). Note the venue (Leh) and the overall champion (Haryana).
Source: United News of India
URL: https://www.uniindia.com/kiwg-2026-army-retain-ice-hockey-gold-haryana-emerge-overall-champions/sports/news/3719626.html
Maharashtra Dominates Ice Skating Events at KIWG 2026
Summary: The Maharashtra quartet won gold in the 2000m short track mixed relay.
On Republic Day, January 26, 2026, Maharashtra’s ice skating team showcased a dominant performance at the Khelo India Winter Games in Ladakh. The quartet, led by Ishaan Darvekar and featuring Anvayee Deshpande, Sohan Tarkar, and Schaleen Fernandes, clinched the gold medal in the 2000m short track mixed relay with a timing of 3:22.47 seconds. Hosts Ladakh secured the silver medal (3:29.34s), while Karnataka took home the bronze. Individual honors were highlighted by Skarma Tsultim of Ladakh, who finished the competition with four medals, including two golds in the 1000m long track and relay events. Experts from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) noted that the next step for these athletes would be international exposure to prepare for the 2030 Winter Olympics. The high level of competition from non-Himalayan states like Maharashtra and Telangana (who won two golds) indicates the growing popularity of winter sports across India.
Exam Angle: Important for Prelims. Focus on state-wise performance and the growth of “niche” sports in India.
Source: United News of India
URL: https://www.uniindia.com/kiwg-2026-army-retain-ice-hockey-gold-haryana-emerge-overall-champions/sports/news/3719626.html
Jindal Bedla Clinches Rajmata Gayatri Devi Memorial Cup
Summary: The polo team secured the title in Jaipur on Republic Day.
The Jindal Bedla polo team emerged victorious in the Rajmata Gayatri Devi Memorial Cup on January 26, 2026, in Jaipur. The tournament, which is a staple of the Indian polo season, concluded on Republic Day with a high-stakes final that showcased the skills of some of the country’s top riders. Polo continues to be a significant cultural and sporting event in Rajasthan, often attracting international players and spectators. In other sports news, the West Indies announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, including Quentin Sampson, while American tennis player Ben Shelton reached his third Australian Open quarterfinal. Back in India, the sporting community also paid tribute to the late I.S. Bindra, a legendary cricket administrator who “changed the game forever,” reflecting on his contributions to the BCCI and PCA.
Exam Angle: Minor Prelims relevance for sports trophies and regional sporting culture.
Source: United News of India
URL: https://www.uniindia.com/kiwg-2026-army-retain-ice-hockey-gold-haryana-emerge-overall-champions/sports/news/3719626.html
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Group Captain Shukla Details Human-Machine Interface Upgrades for Gaganyaan
Summary: Lessons from the ISS mission are being integrated into India’s first crewed spaceflight.
Following his Ashoka Chakra recognition on January 26, 2026, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shared insights into how his 18-day stay on the International Space Station (ISS) is shaping the Gaganyaan mission. Shukla is currently working with ISRO to refine “Human-Machine Interfaces” and crew module safety protocols. He emphasized that the Axiom-4 mission provided critical data on “space anemia” and cardiovascular health in weightlessness, which will be vital for the Gaganyaan-1 crew, scheduled for a 2027 launch. The 2027 mission aims to send three Indian “Vyomanauts” into a 400 km orbit for three days. Shukla is also involved in the “Test Vehicle Abort Missions” to ensure the safety of the crew during the critical launch and re-entry phases. His transition from a fighter pilot to a test pilot and now an astronaut-engineer is being used as a template for future Vyomanaut training at the Yuri Gagarin Centre and ISRO’s own facilities.
Exam Angle: Significant for GS Paper III (Space Technology). Focus on “Gaganyaan,” “Axiom-4,” and “Vyomanauts.”
Source: Times of India
URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/shubhanshu-shukla-gets-ashok-chakra-why-hes-only-the-second-astronaut-to-win-indias-highest-peacetime-gallantry-honour/articleshow/127525906.cms
Reimagining Agricultural Governance in the Climate Change Era
Summary: Experts call for “Climate-Smart Agriculture” to protect India’s 49% irrigated land.
On January 26, 2026, environmental researchers highlighted the urgent need for a shift in agricultural policy as climate change continues to disrupt monsoon patterns in India. Currently, only 49% of India’s net sown area is under irrigation, leaving more than half of the country’s farming sector vulnerable to erratic rainfall. A recent report suggested that “Integrated Farming Systems” (IFS) and “Climate-Smart Agriculture” are no longer optional but essential for food security. The Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme, which has distributed over 230 million cards, remains a pillar for nutrient efficiency, but critics argue that infrastructure development in hilly and tribal regions is lagging. Furthermore, a University of Oxford study released on the same day warned that nearly 41% of the global population will face extreme heat by 2050. For India, this means a projected rise in energy demand for cooling and a significant hit to off-farm livelihoods, particularly for women-headed households in coastal and flood-prone regions.
Exam Angle: Vital for GS Paper III (Environment/Agriculture). Understand “Integrated Farming Systems” and “Climate-Smart Agriculture.”
Source: Mongabay India
URL: https://india.mongabay.com/2026/01/reimagining-agricultural-governance-in-the-climate-change-era-commentary/
AI in Farming: Jharkhand Farmer Modernizes Traditional Agriculture
Summary: A local success story highlights the role of AI and tech in rural transformation.
Amidst the Republic Day celebrations, the story of a Jharkhand farmer using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to modernize his farm gained national attention on January 26, 2026. By utilizing low-cost AI-driven sensors and drone technology, the farmer has optimized water usage and pest control, resulting in a 30% increase in yield. This “Janjatiya” (tribal) success story was featured as an example of how “Digital India” is penetrating remote corners of the country. The integration of traditional knowledge with modern innovation—such as using organic manure alongside AI-monitored soil data—is being promoted as a model for sustainable farming. This development aligns with the government’s “Bio E3 Policy” (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment), which encourages biotech startups and entrepreneurs to develop resilient crop varieties. The focus remains on bridging the “digital divide” to ensure that scientific breakthroughs reach smallholders who lack the capital for large-scale mechanization.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper III (Tech in Agriculture/Inclusive Growth). Note the “Bio E3 Policy” and “Digital India” synergy.
Source: Mongabay India
URL: https://india.mongabay.com/2026/01/reimagining-agricultural-governance-in-the-climate-change-era-commentary/
7. OTHERS
Padma Awards 2026 Announced: Strong Northeast Presence and Posthumous Honors
Summary: The 2026 honors list includes 5 Padma Vibhushans and 14 Padma Bhushans.
The Ministry of Home Affairs released the full list of Padma Awardees on the eve of Republic Day, January 26, 2026. This year’s list features 102 individuals, including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan, and 83 Padma Shri awardees. Notable Padma Vibhushan recipients include actor Dharmendra Deol (Posthumous) for Art and former Kerala CM V.S. Achuthanandhan (Posthumous) for Public Affairs. Shibu Soren (Posthumous) was honored with the Padma Bhushan for his role in the Jharkhand movement, while Uday Kotak received the honor for Trade and Industry. The list reflects a significant “Northeast Presence,” with five achievers from Assam, including Haricharan Saikia (Art) and Jogesh Deuri (Agriculture). The government emphasized that one-third of the awardees are “unsung heroes” from the grassroots, such as Anke Gowda of Karnataka, known for his library of 1 million books, and environmentalist Mohan Nagar of Madhya Pradesh.
Exam Angle: Essential for Prelims (Awards and Honours). Memorize the Padma Vibhushan winners and notable “Unsung Heroes.”
Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2218547
10,000 Special Guests Witness Republic Day Parade as Part of “Jan Bhagidari”
Summary: Beneficiaries of PM-SYM and “Water Warriors” were invited to Kartavya Path.
As part of the government’s efforts to increase “Jan Bhagidari” (People’s Participation), approximately 10,000 special guests were invited to the 77th Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2026. These guests included unorganized sector workers receiving pensions under the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, street vendors from the PM SVANidhi scheme, and “Water Warriors” from the National Mission for Clean Ganga. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya interacted with the PM-SYM beneficiaries, reiterating the government’s commitment to social security for the 40-crore unorganized workforce. The guests also included “MAITRI” (Multipurpose AI Technician in Rural India) individuals and scientists from the Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan missions. This initiative aims to honor the contributions of ordinary citizens to nation-building. The special guests were also provided opportunities to visit the National War Memorial and the PM Sangrahalay (Prime Ministers’ Museum) in New Delhi.
Exam Angle: Relevant for GS Paper II (Social Security/Governance). Note the various schemes mentioned like PM-SYM, PM SVANidhi, and MAITRI.
Source: Press Information Bureau
URL: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2216056
Bangladesh Special Tribunal Sentences Former Police Chief to Death
Summary: Landmark judgment in Dhaka affects regional political narratives.
On January 26, 2026, a special tribunal in Bangladesh sentenced former Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Habibur Rahman and two other senior officers to death. The sentence was handed down for their “command responsibility” in the violent suppression of street protests in 2024, which led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This development is significant for India’s foreign policy, as New Delhi has historically maintained close ties with the Hasina administration. The judgment highlights the ongoing political transition and legal reckoning in Bangladesh. It may influence bilateral security cooperation and the management of the India-Bangladesh border, especially concerning the extradition of former officials. The verdict has sparked both support and calls for restraint within the neighboring country, as the new government seeks to stabilize the domestic political environment after months of unrest.
Exam Angle: Important for GS Paper II (International Relations/India and its Neighborhood). Understand the impact of Bangladesh’s political change on India.
Source: National Herald
URL: https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/tribal-residents-protest-outside-deputy-chief-ministers-home-over-demolitions
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: CORE RECALL POINTS
1. National & State Governance
- 77th Republic Day Theme: “150 Years of Vande Mataram” – commemorating Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s national song.
- Significance: Prelims relevance for theme and cultural heritage (GS Paper I).
- Chief Guests: Ursula von der Leyen (EC President) and Antonio Costa (European Council President) – first joint EU leadership presence.
- Significance: GS Paper II for India-EU bilateral relations and diplomatic symbolism.
- Ashoka Chakra 2026: Awarded to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla – first astronaut recipient since Rakesh Sharma (1985).
- Significance: Awards and Honours (Prelims) + Space Programme achievements (GS Paper III).
- Goa Social Media Ban Proposal: Ban for children under 16, modeled on Australia’s Online Safety Amendment Act.
- Significance: GS Paper II (Governance/Digital Ethics) – state-level regulation of tech platforms.
- Tribal Long March in Maharashtra: Protesters marching for Forest Rights Act implementation and land titles.
- Significance: GS Paper II (Social Justice) – Scheduled Tribes rights and Forest Rights Act (2006).
- Kolkata Warehouse Fire: 7 deaths in Nazirabad area due to fire safety lapses on Republic Day.
- Significance: GS Paper III (Disaster Management) and urban industrial safety compliance.
2. Economy & Finance
- India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Concluded after 18 years of negotiations, covering 90% of traded goods.
- Significance: GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Trade Policy) – tariff reductions, digital trade chapters.
- Forex Reserves Milestone: India’s reserves reached $701 billion (as of January 16, 2026), with gold reserves at $117.454 billion.
- Significance: GS Paper III (Economy) – external sector stability and import cover (11+ months).
- FEDAI SRO Status: RBI recognized Foreign Exchange Dealers’ Association of India as Self-Regulatory Organization.
- Significance: GS Paper III (Banking/Regulatory Framework) – Omnibus SRO Framework implementation.
- Budget 2026 Tax Debate: Salaried taxpayers divided between New Tax Regime (lower rates, no exemptions) vs. Old Regime (80C, HRA benefits).
- Significance: GS Paper III (Fiscal Policy) – direct tax reforms and revenue implications.
3. International Relations & Defence
- India-EU Summit (16th Edition): Scheduled for January 27, 2026 – focus on Security and Defence Partnership and IMEC corridor.
- Significance: GS Paper II (Bilateral Groupings) – strategic cooperation in technology, maritime security, and green energy.
- Operation Sindoor Display: 77th Republic Day parade featured equipment from May 2025 military operation (Arjun tanks, BrahMos, S-400).
- Significance: GS Paper III (Defence) – indigenous defense production and battlefield readiness.
- Republic Day Military Innovations: First appearance of robotic dogs, autonomous unmanned ground vehicles, and “Suryastra” rocket launcher.
- Significance: GS Paper III (Defence Technology) – modernization of armed forces.
- Bangladesh Political Transition: Death sentence for former Police Commissioner Habibur Rahman affects India-Bangladesh ties.
- Significance: GS Paper II (India’s Neighborhood) – regional security cooperation and extradition issues.
4. Science, Environment & Sports
- Gaganyaan Mission Updates: Group Captain Shukla working on Human-Machine Interfaces; mission scheduled for 2027 with 3 Vyomanauts.
- Significance: GS Paper III (Space Technology) – India’s human spaceflight capability and ISRO developments.
- Axiom-4 ISS Mission: Shubhanshu Shukla conducted 60+ experiments on space anemia and protein crystal growth during 18-day mission (June 2025).
- Significance: GS Paper III (Science & Tech) – India’s participation in international space research.
- Climate-Smart Agriculture: Experts call for Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) as 49% of net sown area is irrigated.
- Significance: GS Paper III (Agriculture/Environment) – climate adaptation and food security strategies.
- AI in Agriculture: Jharkhand farmer using AI sensors and drones achieved 30% yield increase under Bio E3 Policy framework.
- Significance: GS Paper III (Technology in Agriculture) – Digital India penetration in rural areas.
- Khelo India Winter Games 2026: Indian Army retained Ice Hockey gold (3-2 vs. Chandigarh) in Leh; Haryana overall champions.
- Significance: Prelims (Sports) – development of winter sports in Himalayan region.
- Maharashtra Ice Skating Success: Won 2000m short track mixed relay gold (3:22.47s) at KIWG 2026.
- Significance: Prelims (State Performance) – non-Himalayan states excelling in winter sports.
5. Awards & Recognition
- Padma Awards 2026: 5 Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan, 83 Padma Shri – total 102 awardees.
- Key Recipients:
- Padma Vibhushan: Dharmendra Deol (Posthumous, Art), V.S. Achuthanandhan (Posthumous, Public Affairs)
- Padma Bhushan: Shibu Soren (Posthumous, Jharkhand movement), Uday Kotak (Trade & Industry)
- Significance: Essential for Prelims (Awards and Honours) – note Northeast representation and grassroots achievers.
- Key Recipients:
- Jan Bhagidari Initiative: 10,000 special guests from PM-SYM, PM SVANidhi, National Mission for Clean Ganga, and MAITRI attended parade.
- Significance: GS Paper II (Social Security) – government schemes for unorganized sector workers.
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