Daily Current Affairs January 23
Table of Contents
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January 23 | Daily Current Affairs 2025
Important Days – Daily Current Affairs January 23
1. When is Parakram Diwas observed every year to honour Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose?
A) 26 January
B) 15 August
C) 23 January
D) 30 January
E) 2 October
Answer: C) 23 January
Event and Location:
- Event: Celebration of Parakram Diwas to commemorate Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary
- Location: Nationwide (India)
- Date: 23 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Government of India observes Parakram Diwas on 23 January every year to pay tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and his contributions to India’s freedom struggle.
- Objectives: To instill patriotism, courage, and dedication among citizens, especially students and youth, by remembering the life and leadership of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Important Terms Explained:
- Parakram Diwas: A national observance initiated by the Government of India in 2021 to mark the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, symbolising courage and patriotic spirit.
- Indian National Army (INA): A military force formed by Indian nationalists during World War II, led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, to fight for India’s independence from British rule.
- Delhi Chalo: A powerful slogan coined by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, motivating the Indian National Army to march towards Delhi and liberate India from British rule.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Parakram Diwas 2026 |
| Announcement date | First declared on 19 January 2021 |
| Location | India (Nationwide celebration) |
| Issuing authority | Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Parakram Diwas |
| Key figures | Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose |
| Purpose/reason | To honour the legacy and bravery of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose |
| Feature details | Educational events, patriotic programmes, cultural activities in schools |
| Validity or status | Celebrated annually on 23 January |
| Strategic/significant value | Inspires youth with patriotism, unity, discipline, and national devotion |
Obituary – Daily Current Affairs January 23
2. Which Karnataka-born environmentalist, known as Singapore’s “Tree Lady,” passed away in January 2026?
A) Sunita Narain
B) Vandana Shiva
C) Kirtida Mekani
D) Medha Patkar
E) Lakshmi Menon
Answer: C) Kirtida Mekani
Event and Location:
- Event: Karnataka-born environmentalist Kirtida Mekani passes away at 66
- Location: Singapore
- Date: 19 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Kirtida Mekani, a Karnataka-born environmentalist, passed away in Singapore at the age of 66. She was widely known as the “Tree Lady” for her leadership in tree planting, conservation, and sustainable living efforts in Singapore.
- Objectives: To honour a life dedicated to environmental awareness, community gardening, youth education, and artistic innovation, and to reflect on her transformative impact on urban sustainability and biodiversity through citizen-driven initiatives.
Important Terms Explained:
- Plant-A-Tree Programme: A nationwide initiative launched in 2007 in collaboration with Singapore’s National Parks Board, which enabled citizens to plant over 76,000 trees, encouraging active community participation in urban greening.
- Community in Bloom: A Singaporean initiative promoting community gardens as spaces for nature interaction, neighbourhood bonding, and urban ecology; supported extensively by Kirtida Mekani as an ambassador.
- Biomimicry Singapore Network: A group co-founded by Kirtida Mekani in 2016 to promote nature-inspired sustainable innovation, uniting scientists, designers, and environmentalists to solve real-world problems through biomimicry.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Death of Kirtida Mekani, Singapore’s “Tree Lady” |
| Announcement date | 23 January 2026 |
| Location | Singapore (originally from Karnataka, India) |
| Issuing authority | Public Tributes by Environment & Arts Institutions |
| Policy/series name | Plant-A-Tree Programme, Community in Bloom, Biomimicry Network |
| Key figures | Kirtida Mekani, Bharat Mekani (husband), National Parks Board Singapore |
| Purpose/reason | Honouring a leading figure in urban sustainability, community care, and the arts |
| Feature details | Led 76,000+ tree plantings, supported community gardens, youth education |
| Validity or status | Obituary update; her work continues through ongoing projects and recognition |
| Strategic/significant value | Her legacy inspires urban greening, people-led conservation, and eco-conscious living |
Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs January 23
3. What is the primary focus of Tata Group’s proposed AI Innovation City near Navi Mumbai International Airport?
A) Electric mobility and solar energy
B) Biotechnology and healthcare innovation
C) Artificial intelligence and semiconductor services
D) Agricultural modernization and logistics
E) Real estate and infrastructure development
Answer: C) Artificial intelligence and semiconductor services
Event and Location:
- Event: Tata Group to invest $11 billion in building an AI Innovation City
- Location: Maharashtra, India (near Navi Mumbai International Airport)
- Date: January 2026 (announced at World Economic Forum, Davos)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Tata Group will develop a large-scale AI Innovation City with a focus on artificial intelligence, semiconductor services, and data centre infrastructure.
- Objectives: To support India’s global ambitions in next-generation technology, attract foreign investments, generate employment, and transform Maharashtra into a tech-driven innovation hub.
Important Terms Explained:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): A branch of computer science that focuses on creating systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation.
- Semiconductor Services: Services related to the design, fabrication, and testing of semiconductor devices which are essential components in modern electronics, enabling computing and digital technologies.
- Data Centres: Dedicated facilities housing computing infrastructure used for storing, processing, and managing large volumes of data crucial for digital services and cloud computing.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Tata Group’s $11 billion AI Innovation City project |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Near Navi Mumbai International Airport, Maharashtra |
| Issuing authority | Tata Group |
| Policy/series name | AI Innovation City |
| Key figures | Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Devendra Fadnavis |
| Purpose/reason | To promote India’s leadership in AI and advanced technologies |
| Feature details | Includes AI research, semiconductor services, large-scale data centres |
| Validity or status | Proposed, backed by government and announced at World Economic Forum |
| Strategic/significant value | Boosts employment, attracts FDI, and strengthens Maharashtra’s tech ecosystem |
4. What is the revised employer contribution to NPS for PSGIC employees who joined after April 1, 2010?
A) 10%
B) 12%
C) 14%
D) 16%
E) 8%
Answer: C) 14%
Event and Location:
- Event: Government of India approves wage and pension revisions for employees of PSGICs, NABARD, and RBI
- Location: Nationwide (India)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Central Government has approved wage and pension revisions for employees and pensioners of Public Sector General Insurance Companies (PSGICs), NABARD, and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
- Objectives: To enhance employee compensation, strengthen retirement security, provide family pension support, and improve social welfare coverage for staff serving in India’s financial institutions.
Important Terms Explained:
- National Pension System (NPS): A government-sponsored pension scheme. The employer contribution for PSGIC employees joining after April 1, 2010, has been increased from 10% to 14% to boost post-retirement benefits.
- Family Pension: A pension paid to the family of a deceased employee or pensioner. For PSGICs, it is now revised to a uniform 30% of basic pay, supporting 14,615 family pensioners.
- Pension Parity: The policy ensures that NABARD retirees (pre-Nov 1, 2017) now receive pensions equal to ex-RBI NABARD retirees, resolving long-standing discrepancies.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | GoI approves wage and pension revision for PSGICs, NABARD, and RBI |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Nationwide |
| Issuing authority | Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Financial Sector Compensation & Pension Reform |
| Key figures | Shaktikanta Das (RBI), Shaji K. V. (NABARD), Finance Ministry |
| Purpose/reason | Enhance salary structure and retirement security in key financial institutions |
| Feature details | Salary hikes, NPS rise, family pension at 30%, pension parity for NABARD retirees |
| Validity or status | Effective retrospectively from August 1, 2022 (PSGICs) and November 1, 2022 (NABARD, RBI) |
| Strategic/significant value | Boosts financial well-being of over 93,000 staff and pensioners in financial sector |
Books and Authors – Daily Current Affairs January 23
5. What is the title of the book on Ram Janmabhoomi launched by Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan?
A) Faith and Temple
B) Ram Janmabhoomi: The Truth
C) Chalice of Ambrosia
D) Dharma and Democracy
E) Shri Ram’s Legacy
Answer: C) Chalice of Ambrosia
Event and Location:
- Event: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan launches a book on the Ram Janmabhoomi journey
- Location: Vice President’s Enclave, New Delhi
- Date: 23 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Release of the book titled “Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi – Challenge and Response”, authored by Surendra Kumar Pachauri, documenting the historical, legal, and cultural journey of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
- Objectives: To present the facts and phases of the Ram Janmabhoomi struggle with clarity and scholarship, honour the spirit of dharma, highlight the role of democracy in resolving faith-based issues, and preserve history for future generations.
Important Terms Explained:
- Ram Janmabhoomi: Refers to the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya, central to a long-standing religious, legal, and socio-political dispute that was resolved by the Supreme Court verdict in 2019.
- Shri Ram Mandir: A grand temple being constructed at the Ram Janmabhoomi site in Ayodhya following the historic court judgment; seen as a symbol of cultural identity and spiritual heritage.
- Supreme Court Verdict 2019: A unanimous judgment by a five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court of India, awarding the disputed land in Ayodhya to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for temple construction, based on legal and archaeological evidence.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Book launch on Ram Janmabhoomi by Vice President |
| Announcement date | 23 January 2026 |
| Location | Vice President’s Enclave, New Delhi |
| Issuing authority | Vice President of India – Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan |
| Policy/series name | Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi – Challenge and Response |
| Key figures | C. P. Radhakrishnan, Surendra Kumar Pachauri, Nripendra Mishra, Vinod Rai |
| Purpose/reason | To document the historical, legal, and cultural journey of Ram Janmabhoomi |
| Feature details | Legal struggle, ASI evidence, democratic process, national sentiment |
| Validity or status | Book officially launched, available to public |
| Strategic/significant value | Highlights India’s democratic handling of faith-based issues and preserves cultural legacy |
Appointments – Daily Current Affairs January 23
6. Who has been appointed as the CEO-designate of Tata Communications?
A) A S Lakshminarayanan
B) Sanjiv Mehta
C) Gopal Vittal
D) Ganesh Lakshminarayanan
E) Rajesh Gopinathan
Answer: D) Ganesh Lakshminarayanan
Event and Location:
- Event: Tata Communications appoints Ganesh Lakshminarayanan as MD & CEO-designate
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra (Company HQ)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Tata Communications, the digital arm of Tata Group, has appointed Ganesh Lakshminarayanan as its MD & CEO-designate, pending regulatory approvals.
- Objectives: To lead the next phase of growth with a focus on enterprise connectivity, digital services, and data-led strategy, following the upcoming retirement of current MD & CEO A S Lakshminarayanan.
Important Terms Explained:
- CEO-Designate: A person named to be the next Chief Executive Officer, awaiting formal confirmation or regulatory clearance before officially taking charge.
- EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization): A financial metric indicating a company’s profitability from core operations; Tata Communications posted ₹1,228 crore in Q3 FY26.
- New Labour Codes: Labour reforms introduced by the Indian government consolidating 29 laws into 4 codes; affect wage structures, employee benefits, and compliance costs for companies.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Appointment of Ganesh Lakshminarayanan as Tata Communications CEO-designate |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Issuing authority | Tata Communications Board |
| Policy/series name | Leadership Transition & Q3 FY26 Performance |
| Key figures | Ganesh Lakshminarayanan, A S Lakshminarayanan |
| Purpose/reason | Strengthen leadership and maintain growth in digital and enterprise services |
| Feature details | 54.3% rise in net profit, ₹6,189 crore revenue, ₹1,228 crore EBITDA |
| Validity or status | CEO-designate pending regulatory clearance; transition to take place by April 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Reinforces Tata Communications’ long-term digital growth and operational focus |
Awards – Daily Current Affairs January 23
7. Which Indian state recently launched the ‘Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu’, a national-level literary award for Indian languages?
A) Kerala
B) West Bengal
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Karnataka
E) Maharashtra
Answer: C) Tamil Nadu
Event and Location:
- Event: Tamil Nadu launches Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu, a new national-level literary award
- Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu (announced at the Chennai International Book Fair)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Tamil Nadu government has instituted the Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu, an annual literary award for outstanding books in selected Indian languages, excluding Hindi, with an aim to promote multilingual literary diversity.
- Objectives: To institutionalise literary recognition, foster inclusive cultural policies, encourage regional language literature, and offer autonomy and transparency in literary honours amid rising concerns of political interference at the national level.
Important Terms Explained:
- Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu: A state-backed national literary award initiated by the Tamil Nadu government in 2026 to honour high-quality literary works in Indian languages other than Hindi, with a cash prize of ₹5 lakh per language.
- Sahitya Akademi: India’s national academy for literature, established in 1954, that recognises and promotes Indian literature; currently under criticism for perceived lack of transparency and alleged political influence.
- Independent Selection Committees: Under the Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu, each language will have a separate panel of experts and reputed writers to judge entries, ensuring fair and unbiased selection, with the state playing no role in the decision-making.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Launch of Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu literary award |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Tamil Nadu (announced at Chennai International Book Fair) |
| Issuing authority | Tamil Nadu State Government |
| Policy/series name | Semmozhi Illakiya Virudhu – Classical Language Literary Award |
| Key figures | M. K. Stalin (Chief Minister), Tamil literary community |
| Purpose/reason | To support literary excellence in Indian languages and counter centralisation |
| Feature details | ₹5 lakh award per language; 7 languages in phase 1; independent selection |
| Validity or status | Launched; annual award from 2026 onward |
| Strategic/significant value | Promotes linguistic diversity, decentralises literary recognition, ensures cultural autonomy |
8. Who received the Bhartendu Harishchandra Lifetime Achievement Award at the Banaras Lit Fest Book Awards 2026?
A) Mahadev Toppo
B) Abhay K
C) Mamta Kalia
D) Namita Gokhale
E) Parag Pawan
Answer: D) Namita Gokhale
Event and Location:
- Event: Banaras Lit Fest Book Awards 2026 honour prominent Indian authors across languages
- Location: Banaras (Varanasi), Uttar Pradesh
- Date: January 30 to February 1, 2026 (award ceremony dates)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Banaras Literature Festival announced the 2nd edition of its annual Book Awards, recognising excellence in fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and translation in English, Hindi, and other Indian languages.
- Objectives: To celebrate literary excellence, honour veteran and emerging writers, promote multilingual creativity, and provide a prestigious platform for diverse voices in Indian literature.
Important Terms Explained:
- Bhartendu Harishchandra Lifetime Achievement Award: A top honour named after the father of modern Hindi literature, conferred to Namita Gokhale for her outstanding lifetime contribution to Indian literary culture.
- Kalidas Award for Indian Languages: A special category honouring literary excellence in Indian regional languages; awarded to Mahadev Toppo in 2026.
- Banaras Literature Festival: A major literary event held in Varanasi, promoting literary dialogue across Indian and global languages, and celebrating notable works through its annual Book Awards.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Banaras Lit Fest Book Awards 2026 |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Banaras (Varanasi), Uttar Pradesh |
| Issuing authority | Banaras Literature Festival Organising Committee |
| Policy/series name | Banaras Lit Fest Book Awards (2nd Edition) |
| Key figures | Namita Gokhale, Mahadev Toppo, Peggy Mohan, Abhay K, Arunava Sinha |
| Purpose/reason | To honour literary excellence across Indian languages and genres |
| Feature details | Awards in fiction, poetry, non-fiction, translation, youth writing, and lifetime achievement |
| Validity or status | To be presented between January 30 – February 1, 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Boosts national literary visibility, promotes multilingualism, and nurtures cultural talent |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 23
9. How much cancer medicine did India recently send as humanitarian aid to Kabul, Afghanistan?
A) 2 tonnes
B) 5 tonnes
C) 7.5 tonnes
D) 10 tonnes
E) 12.5 tonnes
Answer: C) 7.5 tonnes
Event and Location:
- Event: India delivers 7.5 tonnes of cancer medicines as humanitarian aid to Afghanistan
- Location: Kabul, Afghanistan
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Ministry of External Affairs facilitated the dispatch of 7.5 tonnes of life-saving cancer medicines to Kabul, Afghanistan, as part of India’s ongoing humanitarian assistance programme.
- Objectives: To address urgent medical needs in Afghanistan’s health sector, ensure continuity of cancer treatment for vulnerable patients, and reaffirm India’s commitment to people-first diplomacy and healthcare-driven foreign cooperation.
Important Terms Explained:
- Humanitarian Assistance: Aid provided for humanitarian purposes, typically in response to crises or emergencies; includes food, medical support, and essential services to protect lives and alleviate suffering.
- People-First Diplomacy: A foreign policy approach focused on supporting citizens of other countries through development, humanitarian aid, and health assistance rather than political interests alone.
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): The nodal ministry responsible for managing India’s foreign relations and international cooperation, including humanitarian outreach programmes.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | India’s delivery of life-saving cancer medicines to Afghanistan |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Kabul, Afghanistan |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Humanitarian Medical Assistance Programme |
| Key figures | MEA, Indian Embassy (Afghanistan operations), Afghan hospitals |
| Purpose/reason | To provide urgent support for cancer patients and healthcare facilities |
| Feature details | 7.5 tonnes of oncology medicines, humanitarian aid to meet medical shortages |
| Validity or status | Delivered; in use for treatment and medical relief |
| Strategic/significant value | Reinforces India-Afghanistan humanitarian ties and soft power diplomacy |
Schemes – Daily Current Affairs January 23
10. What is the name of the initiative launched under the MSDE-WEF MoU to enhance skill development in India?
A) Skill India 2.0
B) India Skills Mission
C) Global Skilling Hub
D) India Skills Accelerator
E) Bharat Vocational Path
Answer: D) India Skills Accelerator
Event and Location:
- Event: MSDE signs MoU with World Economic Forum to boost vocational education and skills
- Location: India (National Agreement)
- Date: 23 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to strengthen India’s vocational education and technical training ecosystem through global cooperation.
- Objectives: To launch the India Skills Accelerator for addressing current and future skill gaps, aligning training with global labour market needs, enhancing employability, and supporting lifelong learning in line with NEP 2020 and Vision India@2047.
Important Terms Explained:
- India Skills Accelerator: A multi-stakeholder platform introduced under the MSDE-WEF MoU to drive innovation in skilling and promote upskilling, reskilling, and lifelong learning across industry sectors.
- NEP 2020 (National Education Policy): A comprehensive policy reform in India’s education sector, promoting integration of vocational education with formal education and emphasis on flexibility, digital learning, and employability.
- Vision India@2047: A strategic vision document outlining India’s development roadmap for becoming a global leader by 2047, the centenary of independence, with skilling, innovation, and inclusive growth as core pillars.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | MSDE-WEF MoU for Vocational Education and Skill Development |
| Announcement date | 23 January 2026 |
| Location | India (National-level collaboration) |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) |
| Policy/series name | India Skills Accelerator |
| Key figures | Jayant Chaudhary, Klaus Schwab, Sanjiv Bajaj, Shobana Kamineni |
| Purpose/reason | To bridge skill gaps and make India’s workforce future-ready |
| Feature details | Outcome-based skilling, flexible curriculum, PPPs, alignment with industry |
| Validity or status | MoU signed; implementation to begin with institutional support |
| Strategic/significant value | Aligns skilling ecosystem with global standards; supports Vision India@2047 |
11. What is the revised employer contribution to the National Pension System (NPS) for insurance employees joining after April 1, 2010?
A) 10 percent
B) 12 percent
C) 14 percent
D) 15 percent
E) 8 percent
Answer: C) 14 percent
Event and Location:
- Event: Government approves pay and pension revision for staff and retirees of insurance companies, NABARD, and RBI
- Location: Nationwide (India)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Central Government has cleared salary and pension revisions for public sector insurance employees, NABARD staff, and RBI retirees, including wage hikes, family pension changes, and increased NPS contributions.
- Objectives: To provide financial relief to serving employees and pensioners, address long-pending demands, enhance retirement benefits, and ensure parity and fairness across public sector institutions.
Important Terms Explained:
- National Pension System (NPS): A government-backed retirement savings scheme for employees, where contributions are made by both the employee and the employer; now revised to 14% employer contribution for eligible insurance staff.
- Family Pension: A pension provided to the family of a deceased employee or retiree; now revised to a uniform 30% rate for insurance sector family pensioners.
- Arrears: The accumulated payment owed due to retrospective application of revised salary or pension from a previous effective date.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Government clears pay and pension hike for insurance, NABARD, and RBI staff |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Nationwide (India) |
| Issuing authority | Central Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Salary and Pension Revision (Public Sector Financial Institutions) |
| Key figures | 43,247 insurance employees, 3,800 NABARD staff, 30,769 RBI pensioners |
| Purpose/reason | To enhance financial security and dignity for employees and pensioners |
| Feature details | Salary hike (12.41%), family pension at 30%, NPS hike to 14%, pension parity |
| Validity or status | Effective from dates ranging between Aug 1, 2022 and Nov 1, 2022 |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens public sector morale, addresses long-pending benefits, and ensures equity |
12. Which edition of Bharat Rang Mahotsav will be held in 2026, featuring performances across 40 locations in India?
A) 20th
B) 22nd
C) 25th
D) 30th
E) 28th
Answer: C) 25th
Event and Location:
- Event: 25th edition of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s largest international theatre festival
- Location: Across 40 locations in India
- Date: 27 January to 20 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The National School of Drama (NSD) is organising Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2026, featuring 277 productions, 228 languages, and performances in 40 locations, including remote regions and global representation from all continents.
- Objectives: To promote inclusive, diverse, and regional theatre, honour cultural and linguistic richness, empower underrepresented communities, and strengthen global cultural collaboration through one of the world’s largest performing arts platforms.
Important Terms Explained:
- Bharat Rang Mahotsav (BRM): An annual international theatre festival organized by the National School of Drama, established in 1999; it showcases Indian and global theatrical talent and promotes cultural exchange.
- Adirang Mahotsav: A sub-festival within BRM focused on tribal theatre, dance, and crafts, celebrating India’s indigenous heritage.
- Shruti Initiative: A literary and publishing initiative under BRM to launch and promote new books, particularly focusing on theatre scripts and original works.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2026 |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | 40 locations across India, including remote regions |
| Issuing authority | National School of Drama (NSD) |
| Policy/series name | Bharat Rang Mahotsav – 25th Edition |
| Key figures | NSD leadership, international collaborators |
| Purpose/reason | Promote theatre, cultural diversity, global exchange, and inclusion |
| Feature details | 277 productions, 228 languages, 12 international plays, 17 book launches |
| Validity or status | Scheduled from 27 January to 20 February 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances India’s global cultural footprint and fosters regional participation |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 23
13. What is the total number of obligated entities under the Indian Carbon Market after the latest GEI target notification?
A) 208
B) 312
C) 490
D) 402
E) 521
Answer: C) 490
Event and Location:
- Event: Government expands Carbon Credit Trading Scheme with new GEI targets
- Location: India (Nationwide implementation)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified Greenhouse Gas Emission Intensity (GEI) targets for 208 additional carbon-intensive entities under the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS).
- Objectives: To strengthen India’s carbon market, promote industrial decarbonisation, incentivise cleaner technologies, and align emission-intensive sectors with national climate action goals.
Important Terms Explained:
- Greenhouse Gas Emission Intensity (GEI): Refers to the amount of greenhouse gas emissions per unit of output; GEI targets aim to reduce emission intensity rather than total emissions, allowing economic growth with improved efficiency.
- Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS): A market-based mechanism in which obligated entities either meet GEI targets or trade carbon credits. Entities reducing emissions beyond targets can sell credits, while those falling short must buy them.
- Carbon Credit: A tradeable certificate representing the reduction or removal of one tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent; promotes cost-effective emissions control and investment in low-carbon technologies.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Expansion of Carbon Credit Trading Scheme with new GEI targets |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) |
| Policy/series name | Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) |
| Key figures | Bhupender Yadav (MoEFCC), 208 new entities, total 490 obligated entities |
| Purpose/reason | To promote low-carbon industrial growth and improve emission accountability |
| Feature details | GEI-based targets, carbon trading, incentives for clean tech adoption |
| Validity or status | Newly notified and active under compliance framework |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens India’s carbon market and supports long-term climate commitments |
14. Which district in Rajasthan will host a new biological park featuring 81 wildlife species and multiple safaris?
A) Jaipur
B) Alwar
C) Udaipur
D) Bikaner
E) Jodhpur
Answer: B) Alwar
Event and Location:
- Event: Rajasthan to develop a major biological park with 81 wildlife species
- Location: Alwar district, Rajasthan
- Date: January 2026 (project update and planning phase)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: A new biological park is planned between Kati Ghati and Jaisamand in Alwar, spanning nearly 100 hectares, featuring safaris, rescue centres, and a veterinary hospital.
- Objectives: To promote wildlife conservation, provide modern animal care, enhance eco-tourism in the NCR region, and offer educational and research opportunities through interaction with 81 wildlife species and 400+ animals.
Important Terms Explained:
- Biological Park: A specially planned area for wildlife conservation and public awareness, combining animal housing, safaris, rescue operations, veterinary care, and educational zones.
- Safari: A guided tour in a protected area where visitors can observe wild animals in natural or semi-natural settings; the park will include lion, tiger, and herbivore safaris.
- Animal Rescue Centre: A facility that rehabilitates and treats injured or distressed animals, often modeled on established centres like the one at Gir National Park, Gujarat.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Development of Alwar Biological Park |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Kati Ghati to Jaisamand area, Alwar, Rajasthan |
| Issuing authority | Rajasthan Forest Department (with final approval from MoEFCC) |
| Policy/series name | Alwar Biological Park Development Project |
| Key figures | Rajasthan Forest Department, Union Ministry of Environment |
| Purpose/reason | Promote wildlife conservation and eco-tourism |
| Feature details | 100-hectare park, 81 species, 400+ animals, multiple safaris, rescue centre |
| Validity or status | Awaiting final clearance; construction to begin post-approval |
| Strategic/significant value | First of its kind in NCR region; boosts conservation, education and tourism |
15. From which date will higher GST and excise duties on tobacco and pan masala products come into effect in India?
A) January 1, 2026
B) March 1, 2026
C) February 1, 2026
D) April 1, 2026
E) December 31, 2025
Answer: C) February 1, 2026
Event and Location:
- Event: Odisha announces a complete ban on gutkha, pan masala, and all tobacco and nicotine products
- Location: Odisha, India
- Date: January 2026 (Ban announcement); effective tax changes from February 1, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department has issued a complete ban on the manufacturing, sale, storage, transport, and distribution of gutkha, pan masala, and all tobacco/nicotine-based products, including both packaged and unpackaged forms.
- Objectives: To protect public health, ensure compliance with Supreme Court directives, prevent misuse of chewable tobacco products, and align with national anti-tobacco initiatives through legal enforcement and higher taxation.
Important Terms Explained:
- Gutkha and Pan Masala Ban: A complete prohibition on all forms of chewable tobacco or flavored areca nut mixtures (gutkha), covering production, storage, and sale to curb health hazards.
- GST on Tobacco Products: From February 1, 2026, GST will be 40% on pan masala and cigarettes, and 18% on beedis. Additional Health & National Security Cess and excise duty will also apply.
- SC Tobacco Ban Compliance: The move aligns Odisha with Supreme Court directions calling for strict enforcement of the pan-India ban on gutkha and similar harmful products.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Complete ban on gutkha, pan masala, and tobacco in Odisha |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Odisha |
| Issuing authority | Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department |
| Policy/series name | Comprehensive Tobacco and Nicotine Product Ban |
| Key figures | Aswathy S (Health Secretary), Finance Ministry |
| Purpose/reason | To safeguard public health and comply with SC directions |
| Feature details | Covers manufacturing, sale, transport, storage of all tobacco/nicotine items |
| Validity or status | Active; tax changes from February 1, 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens public health policy and discourages harmful consumption patterns |
16. Which city has become the first in Uttar Pradesh to achieve 100% scientific processing of fresh municipal waste?
A) Kanpur
B) Varanasi
C) Ghaziabad
D) Lucknow
E) Prayagraj
Answer: D) Lucknow
Event and Location:
- Event: Lucknow achieves 100% scientific processing of fresh municipal waste
- Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) commissioned its third fresh waste processing plant at Shivari, enabling complete scientific treatment of all newly generated municipal solid waste and eliminating open dumping.
- Objectives: To establish a zero fresh waste dump city, promote sustainable urban waste management, implement circular economy principles, and improve environmental quality and public health.
Important Terms Explained:
- Scientific Waste Processing: Treatment of municipal waste using environmentally safe methods such as composting, biomethanation, recycling, and fuel recovery instead of open dumping.
- Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF): Fuel produced from non-biodegradable waste fractions, supplied to cement and paper industries for co-processing as an alternative energy source.
- Legacy Waste: Old accumulated waste stored at dumping sites; Lucknow has scientifically processed a major portion to reclaim land and reduce environmental hazards.
- Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Plant: A facility that generates electricity from processed waste; Lucknow plans a 15 MW WtE plant at Shivari using RDF.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Lucknow becomes UP’s first zero fresh waste dump city |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
| Issuing authority | Lucknow Municipal Corporation |
| Policy/series name | Scientific Municipal Waste Processing Initiative |
| Key figures | Lucknow Municipal Corporation officials |
| Purpose/reason | To eliminate open dumping and ensure sustainable waste management |
| Feature details | Three waste plants with 2,100 MT/day capacity, RDF generation, composting, recycling |
| Validity or status | Achieved and operational |
| Strategic/significant value | Sets a benchmark for urban waste management and circular economy adoption |
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