Daily Current Affairs January 09

Dear Champions, as you all know that a lot of competitive exams have been notified consequently. Candidates have to prepare themselves according to the level of competition and expectation of the Recruitment board. Regarding that one of the most important topic is Daily Current Affairs January 09. Current Affairs in the form of contemporary events of national & international play a crucial role in almost every competitive exams like Banking, Insurance, SSC, UPSC, TNPSC, Railway etc.

Current affairs are the most dynamic yet scoring among all sections and need to be prepared from the right source. Here, we cafunsta team, providing Daily GK Updates, Current Affairs Questions, and Monthly current affairs pdf.

TO PURCHASE OUR BANKING AWARENESS (Latest Edition) – CLICK HERE

January 09 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs January 09

1. When is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) observed annually to honour the contributions of the Indian diaspora?
A) January 12
B) January 9
C) January 26
D) February 10
E) January 14
Answer: B) January 9

Event and Location:

  • Event: Observance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (NRI Day) 2026
  • Location: India and Indian missions abroad
  • Date: January 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: To celebrate the contributions of the Indian diaspora and strengthen engagement with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs).
  • Objectives: Foster closer ties with overseas Indians, recognise their role in India’s growth, and provide a platform for dialogue on diaspora-related policies and concerns.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD): A commemorative day celebrated on January 9 each year to mark the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa in 1915 and acknowledge the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
  • Non-Resident Indian (NRI): An Indian citizen residing outside India for purposes such as employment, business, or education.
  • Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana: A government initiative offering PIOs a subsidised pilgrimage tour across India’s cultural and religious heritage sites.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2026
Announcement date January 9, 2026
Location India and Indian missions worldwide
Issuing authority Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
Policy/series name Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Key figures Mahatma Gandhi (historical relevance), PM Narendra Modi
Purpose/reason To honour the contribution of NRIs and PIOs to India
Feature details Observed biennially with conventions; regional events in non-convention years
Validity or status 2026 is a non-convention year
Strategic/significant value Enhances India’s global outreach and diaspora engagement

Sports – Daily Current Affairs January 09

2. Which Indian athlete, known for setting national records in both 800m and 1500m, announced his retirement in January 2026?
A) Neeraj Chopra
B) Avinash Sable
C) Jinson Johnson
D) Muhammed Anas
E) Lalita Babar
Answer: C) Jinson Johnson

Event and Location:

  • Event: Retirement of Indian middle-distance runner Jinson Johnson from professional athletics
  • Location: India
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Indian middle-distance runner Jinson Johnson, aged 34, announced his retirement from professional athletics after a decorated career in both national and international competitions.
  • Objectives: The decision concludes over 15 years of competitive excellence and marks the end of an era in Indian middle-distance running, during which Johnson set national records and brought laurels to Indian athletics.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Middle-Distance Running: A track and field category that includes events like 800 metres and 1500 metres, requiring a blend of speed, endurance, and tactical race strategy.
  • National Record (NR): The best-ever performance recorded by an athlete from a specific country in a recognized event. Jinson Johnson holds India’s NR in both 800m and 1500m.
  • Asian Games: A premier continental multi-sport event held every four years among athletes from all over Asia. Jinson won gold and silver at the 2018 edition in Jakarta.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Jinson Johnson announces retirement from professional athletics
Announcement date January 2026
Location India (Athlete from Kerala)
Issuing authority Personal announcement by athlete
Policy/series name End of career after over 15 years in national and international athletics
Key figures Jinson Johnson, middle-distance athlete
Purpose/reason Retirement from competitive athletics
Feature details National records in 800m (1:45.65) and 1500m (3:35.24)
Validity or status Retired as of January 2026
Strategic/significant value Left legacy in Indian middle-distance running, inspired young athletes

3. Which Australian cricketer, known as the country’s first Muslim Test player, announced retirement after the 2026 Ashes Test at SCG?
A) David Warner
B) Usman Khawaja
C) Pat Cummins
D) Marnus Labuschagne
E) Steve Smith
Answer: B) Usman Khawaja

Event and Location:

  • Event: Retirement of Usman Khawaja from international cricket
  • Location: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Australia
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Usman Khawaja, Australia’s first Muslim Test cricketer, announced his retirement from international cricket following the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground in January 2026.
  • Objectives: His retirement marks the end of a 15-year international career, and underscores the significance of religious and cultural representation in elite-level cricket, while also creating a void in the Australian Test batting line-up during a squad transition phase.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Ashes Series: A historic Test cricket rivalry between England and Australia, held biennially, regarded as one of the most prestigious contests in international cricket.
  • SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground): One of Australia’s most iconic cricket stadiums, located in Sydney, New South Wales; often used for high-profile Test matches including Ashes finales.
  • Representation in Sports: The inclusion and visibility of individuals from diverse religious, ethnic, or cultural backgrounds in elite athletic competitions, helping normalize equality and diversity in traditionally exclusive arenas.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Retirement of Usman Khawaja from international cricket
Announcement date January 2026
Location Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Australia
Issuing authority Personal retirement announcement
Policy/series name Final Ashes Test of 2026
Key figures Usman Khawaja – First Muslim Test cricketer for Australia
Purpose/reason End of a 15-year career in international cricket
Feature details 6,206 Test runs, 16 centuries, 87 Tests; 1,554 ODI runs in 40 matches
Validity or status Retired as of January 2026
Strategic/significant value Milestone for diversity in Australian cricket; senior player retirement

Ranking – Daily Current Affairs January 09

4. Which state police secured the top position in the ICJS 2.0 national rankings released in January 2026?
A) Haryana
B) Assam
C) Gujarat
D) Uttar Pradesh
E) Uttarakhand
Answer: E) Uttarakhand

Event and Location:

  • Event: Uttarakhand Police ranks 1st in ICJS 2.0 national rankings
  • Location: India (nationwide assessment by NCRB)
  • Date: January 8, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) under the Ministry of Home Affairs released the ICJS 2.0 national rankings, where Uttarakhand Police secured first place with a score of 93.46.
  • Objectives: The rankings aim to assess and encourage effective digital implementation of the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS), ensuring enhanced data sharing, transparency, and technology-based policing across Indian states and UTs.

Important Terms Explained:

  • ICJS (Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System): A digital platform that integrates police, courts, prosecution, prisons, and forensic systems into a single digital network, enabling real-time information sharing for faster and transparent justice delivery.
  • ICJS 2.0: The upgraded version of ICJS, promoting the “One Data, One Entry” model. Once data is entered at any point (e.g., police station), it is accessible across the system—eliminating redundancies and improving investigation timelines.
  • NCRB (National Crime Records Bureau): A government agency under the Ministry of Home Affairs, responsible for maintaining national crime records, publishing crime statistics, and managing national crime databases like CCTNS and ICJS.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name ICJS 2.0 National Rankings – 2026 Edition
Announcement date January 8, 2026
Location Nationwide (Released by NCRB, New Delhi)
Issuing authority National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) under Ministry of Home Affairs
Policy/series name Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) 2.0
Key figures Uttarakhand Police – Rank 1 (Score: 93.46)
Purpose/reason To evaluate states’ digital policing and data-sharing efficiency
Feature details Integration of police, courts, prisons, forensics; real-time data sharing
Validity or status 2nd edition rankings, effective January 2026
Strategic/significant value Enhances national justice delivery, promotes tech-based policing

5. Which city was ranked the best Indian city for women in 2025 as per the City Inclusion Index by Avtar?
A) Pune
B) Chennai
C) Mumbai
D) Bengaluru
E) Hyderabad
Answer: D) Bengaluru

Event and Location:

  • Event: Bengaluru ranked top city for women in India in 2025
  • Location: Nationwide (India)
  • Date: January 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: To assess and rank 125 Indian cities based on their inclusivity for women across social and industrial parameters.
  • Objectives: To identify cities providing a supportive environment for women’s safety, employment, mobility, and long-term career growth.

Important Terms Explained:

  • City Inclusion Index: A dual-parameter assessment tool evaluating urban inclusivity for women based on social and industrial indicators.
  • Social Inclusion Score: Measures safety, mobility, education, health access, and public infrastructure.
  • Industrial Inclusion Score: Evaluates women’s participation in formal jobs, skilling, corporate inclusion, and career progression.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 2025 City Inclusion Index – Best Cities for Women
Announcement date January 9, 2026
Location Pan-India (125 cities assessed)
Issuing authority Avtar, workplace inclusion consultancy
Policy/series name City Inclusion Index 2025
Key figures Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Mumbai
Purpose/reason To promote inclusive urban development for women
Feature details Assessment of social and industrial inclusion parameters
Validity or status 2025 rankings, applicable for urban planning benchmarks
Strategic/significant value Highlights cities enabling women’s economic and social mobility

Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs January 09

6. Under which section of the RBI Act, 1934 did the RBI cancel the Certificates of Registration of 35 NBFCs in January 2026?
A) Section 42(1)
B) Section 35A
C) Section 45-IA(6)
D) Section 22B
E) Section 25(1A)
Answer: C) Section 45-IA(6)

Event and Location:

  • Event: RBI cancels Certificate of Registration (CoR) of 35 NBFCs for regulatory non-compliance
  • Location: India (majority NBFCs based in Delhi/NCR)
  • Date: January 2026 (effective from December 9–31, 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cancelled the Certificate of Registration (CoR) of 35 NBFCs under Section 45-IA(6) of the RBI Act, 1934 due to regulatory non-compliance, and acknowledged voluntary surrender of registration by 16 other NBFCs.
  • Objectives: The action aims to ensure financial system stability, enhance consumer and investor protection, uphold regulatory standards, and eliminate non-compliant or risky NBFCs from the financial ecosystem.

Important Terms Explained:

  • NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company): A financial institution registered under the Companies Act that provides loans, advances, asset financing, and investments, but cannot accept demand deposits, lacks payment system access, and is not covered by deposit insurance.
  • Certificate of Registration (CoR): A mandatory certificate issued by the RBI under Section 45-IA of the RBI Act, 1934 that permits a company to operate as an NBFC. Cancellation of CoR prohibits all NBFC-related activities.
  • Section 45-IA(6): Provision under the RBI Act, 1934 that empowers RBI to cancel the registration of an NBFC for failure to meet regulatory criteria such as Net Owned Funds (NOF), non-compliance, or fraudulent practices.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name RBI Cancels CoR of 35 NBFCs + 16 Voluntary Surrenders
Announcement date January 2026
Location India (Majority NBFCs in Delhi/NCR)
Issuing authority Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Policy/series name Regulatory Action on NBFC Compliance
Key figures Total NBFCs removed: 51 (35 cancelled + 16 surrendered)
Purpose/reason To enforce compliance, ensure market integrity, protect consumers
Feature details Action under Section 45-IA(6); barred from NBFC/NBFI business
Validity or status Cancellations effective from December 9–31, 2025
Strategic/significant value Maintains financial system stability, boosts investor confidence

Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs January 09

7. What is the projected Real GDP growth rate for India in FY 2025–26 as per the First Advance Estimates released by NSO?
A) 6.5%
B) 7.0%
C) 7.3%
D) 7.4%
E) 8.0%
Answer: D) 7.4%

Event and Location:

  • Event: Release of First Advance Estimates of GDP for FY 2025–26
  • Location: India
  • Date: January 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The National Statistics Office (NSO) released the First Advance Estimates (FAE) of India’s Gross Domestic Product for FY 2025–26.
  • Objectives: These early estimates are aimed at guiding monetary policy, enabling budgetary planning, improving investor sentiment, and reinforcing India’s position as the fastest-growing major economy.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Real GDP: It measures the total economic output adjusted for inflation, providing a true picture of growth. For FY26, it is projected at 7.4%.
  • Nominal GDP: It includes inflation and represents the current market prices. For FY26, it is estimated at 8%, lower than the previous year’s 10.4%.
  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: A government initiative aimed at boosting manufacturing through targeted financial incentives, credited for raising manufacturing growth from 4.5% to 7.0% in FY26.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Release of First Advance Estimates (FAE) of GDP FY26
Announcement date January 9, 2026
Location India
Issuing authority National Statistics Office (NSO)
Policy/series name First Advance Estimates of GDP
Key figures Rao Inderjit Singh, MoS (Independent Charge), MoSPI
Purpose/reason To assess early economic performance and guide fiscal/monetary decisions
Feature details Real GDP: 7.4%, Real GVA: 7.3%, Nominal GDP: 8%
Validity or status Preliminary estimates for FY26
Strategic/significant value Helps validate India’s status as a leading global economy and informs policy adjustments

Appointments – Daily Current Affairs January 09

8. Who was appointed as the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) in January 2026?
A) Dr. D.K. Shukla
B) A.K. Balasubrahmanian
C) Anil Kakodkar
D) K.N. Vyas
E) R. Chidambaram
Answer: B) A.K. Balasubrahmanian

Event and Location:

  • Event: Appointment of A.K. Balasubrahmanian as AERB Chairman
  • Location: India (AERB Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra)
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appointed A.K. Balasubrahmanian as the new Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for a three-year term.
  • Objectives: The appointment aims to leverage Balasubrahmanian’s 40 years of nuclear expertise to strengthen India’s regulatory framework, promote indigenous nuclear safety innovations, and support the safe expansion of India’s nuclear energy program.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB): India’s apex nuclear safety authority, constituted in 1983 under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, responsible for formulating, enforcing, and monitoring nuclear safety standards and licensing.
  • Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR): A type of nuclear reactor widely used in India that uses heavy water as a moderator and coolant, known for its efficiency and indigenous development.
  • NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited): The public sector enterprise under the Department of Atomic Energy responsible for the design, construction, and operation of India’s nuclear power reactors.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Appointment of A.K. Balasubrahmanian as AERB Chairman
Announcement date January 2026
Location Mumbai, Maharashtra
Issuing authority Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by PM Modi
Policy/series name Leadership Appointment in Nuclear Regulatory Sector
Key figures A.K. Balasubrahmanian, Dr. D.K. Shukla
Purpose/reason To ensure expert leadership in nuclear safety regulation
Feature details 40 years’ nuclear expertise, indigenous tech innovation, PHWR safety design
Validity or status Appointed for 3-year term (2026–2029)
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s nuclear safety oversight amid expansion of atomic energy

Awards – Daily Current Affairs January 09

9. Who was awarded the 2026 IEEE Medal of Honour for contributions to GPU and accelerated computing?
A) Satya Nadella
B) Jensen Huang
C) Sundar Pichai
D) Elon Musk
E) Mark Zuckerberg
Answer: B) Jensen Huang

Event and Location:

  • Event: Jensen Huang awarded the 2026 IEEE Medal of Honour
  • Location: International (conferred by IEEE)
  • Date: January 6, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) awarded its 2026 IEEE Medal of Honour to Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, recognizing his pioneering role in GPU technology and accelerated computing.
  • Objectives: The award honours individuals whose innovations have had transformative global impact in the fields of electrical, electronics, and computing, particularly those advancing AI, HPC, and modern computational capabilities.

Important Terms Explained:

  • IEEE Medal of Honour: The highest recognition granted by IEEE, established in 1917, awarded annually to individuals for exceptional contributions to the fields of electrical, electronics, and computer engineering.
  • GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): A specialized chip designed for parallel processing that accelerates computing tasks, especially in AI, deep learning, graphics rendering, and scientific simulations.
  • Accelerated Computing: The use of specialized hardware like GPUs to enhance computational speed and efficiency for complex workloads, often used in AI, data science, and scientific research.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name IEEE Medal of Honour 2026 awarded to Jensen Huang
Announcement date January 6, 2026
Location Global (IEEE – USA based organization)
Issuing authority Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Policy/series name IEEE Medal of Honour (Established 1917)
Key figures Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA
Purpose/reason Recognition of contributions to GPU development and accelerated computing
Feature details Award includes USD 2 million cash prize; second year with monetary award
Validity or status Award conferred for 2026 cycle
Strategic/significant value Highlights NVIDIA’s global leadership in AI and computing technologies

10. Where was the 70th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar–2025 award ceremony held?
A) Vigyan Bhawan
B) Bharat Mandapam
C) Pragati Maidan
D) Yashobhoomi
E) Rail Bhawan
Answer: D) Yashobhoomi

Event and Location:

  • Event: 70th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar–2025 award ceremony
  • Location: Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi
  • Date: January 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Ministry of Railways conferred the 70th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar–2025 on 100 officers and employees of Indian Railways for exceptional contributions in areas such as innovation, operational safety, infrastructure, and public service.
  • Objectives: The awards aim to recognize extraordinary service, institutional excellence, and courage displayed by railway personnel while ensuring continuous improvement in railway operations, safety, and infrastructure development across India.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar: One of the highest service honours in Indian Railways, awarded annually to employees and officers for exceptional performance, innovation, and dedication.
  • Yashobhoomi: India’s largest convention and exhibition centre, located in Dwarka, New Delhi, and often used for high-level national events and ceremonies.
  • Operation Sindoor: A railway operation where critical services were maintained under challenging circumstances, highlighting staff resilience and emergency preparedness.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 70th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar–2025
Announcement date January 9, 2026
Location Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi
Issuing authority Ministry of Railways, Government of India
Policy/series name Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar
Key figures Ashwini Vaishnaw, V. Somanna, Ravneet Singh, Satish Kumar (Railway Board)
Purpose/reason To honour 100 railway personnel for exceptional contributions and public service
Feature details Awards for innovation, courage, operations, revenue, sports, project execution
Validity or status Awards conferred during official ceremony
Strategic/significant value Promotes institutional excellence, boosts employee morale, drives innovation

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs January 09

11. Which Indian institute developed the Raman Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS) technique to measure cold atoms non-invasively?
A) IISc Bengaluru
B) TIFR Mumbai
C) IIT Madras
D) Raman Research Institute
E) BARC Mumbai
Answer: D) Raman Research Institute

Event and Location:

  • Event: Raman Research Institute develops breakthrough cold atom measurement technique
  • Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru developed a non-invasive technique named Raman Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS) to measure cold atoms in real time with ultra-high precision.
  • Objectives: The innovation aims to advance quantum computing, quantum sensing, and precision measurement by enabling accurate, real-time, and disturbance-free observation of cold atom systems.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Raman Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS): A non-invasive cold atom detection technique that uses two Raman laser beams to amplify natural atomic spin fluctuations, allowing real-time measurement without disturbing atomic systems.
  • Cold Atoms: Atoms cooled to near absolute zero temperatures, where quantum effects become prominent. They are essential for quantum computing, atomic clocks, and precision sensors.
  • Quantum Sensing: The use of quantum systems to measure physical quantities (e.g., magnetic fields, gravity) with ultra-high accuracy, far beyond classical sensor capabilities.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Development of Raman Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS)
Announcement date January 2026
Location Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru
Issuing authority Raman Research Institute (RRI)
Policy/series name Quantum Measurement Research under National Quantum Mission
Key figures Prof. Saptarishi Chaudhuri, Head of QuMIX Lab
Purpose/reason To measure cold atoms in real time without disruption
Feature details Signal amplified by ~1 million times, real-time, precise, non-invasive
Validity or status Technique successfully tested on potassium atoms
Strategic/significant value Boosts India’s quantum research capacity, enhances precision measurement tech

12. What is the name of the starless dark matter cloud discovered by the Hubble Space Telescope near Messier 94?
A) Dark-Galaxy-7
B) Shadow Cloud
C) Cloud-9
D) Virgo X-1
E) Nebula-94
Answer: C) Cloud-9

Event and Location:

  • Event: Discovery of starless dark matter cloud “Cloud-9” near Messier 94
  • Location: Near spiral galaxy Messier 94, approximately 14 million light-years from Earth
  • Date: Announced in January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Hubble Space Telescope, operated by NASA and ESA, discovered Cloud-9, a rare, starless dark matter cloud classified as a Reionization-Limited H I Cloud (RELHIC).
  • Objectives: The discovery aims to offer new insight into dark matter, early universe structures, and why some cosmic clouds failed to form galaxies, thereby supporting models of galaxy evolution and the dark universe.

Important Terms Explained:

  • RELHIC (Reionization-Limited H I Cloud): A type of primordial gas cloud composed mainly of neutral hydrogen (H I) that failed to form stars post-reionization, making it a fossil-like remnant of the early universe.
  • H I (Neutral Hydrogen): Non-ionized hydrogen atoms in interstellar space; detected using radio telescopes, often found in the early stages of galaxy formation.
  • Dark Matter: An invisible form of matter that makes up most of the universe’s mass, detectable only via its gravitational effects, not through light emission or absorption.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Discovery of Cloud-9, a starless dark matter cloud
Announcement date January 2026
Location Near Messier 94 (~14 million light-years from Earth)
Issuing authority NASA and ESA (via Hubble Space Telescope)
Policy/series name Dark Matter and Early Universe Research
Key figures Research presented at scientific conference in Phoenix
Purpose/reason To study early-universe relics and test galaxy formation theories
Feature details Contains H I gas, mass of 1 million Suns; 5 billion solar mass dark halo
Validity or status Confirmed via astronomical imaging; published in scientific journal
Strategic/significant value Offers direct insight into dark matter, galaxy evolution, and cosmic structure

Defence – Daily Current Affairs January 09

13. Which Indian naval training squadron began a Long-Range Training Deployment to Southeast Asia in January 2026?
A) 5th Destroyer Squadron
B) Eastern Fleet
C) 2nd Carrier Strike Group
D) 1st Training Squadron
E) Southern Command Training Unit
Answer: D) 1st Training Squadron

Event and Location:

  • Event: Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron begins Long-Range Training Deployment to Southeast Asia
  • Location: Southeast Asia (deployment region); India (home port)
  • Date: January 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The First Training Squadron (1TS) of the Indian Navy commenced a Long-Range Training Deployment (LRTD) to Southeast Asia as part of the 110th Integrated Officers’ Training Course (IOTC).
  • Objectives: The deployment aims to provide naval cadets with hands-on operational training, strengthen India’s Act East Policy, enhance regional naval diplomacy, and showcase India’s maritime security capabilities and commitment to a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

Important Terms Explained:

  • 1TS (First Training Squadron): A formation under the Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy, responsible for conducting afloat training for officer cadets undergoing the Integrated Officers’ Training Course.
  • LRTD (Long-Range Training Deployment): A maritime training initiative involving extended voyages to foreign waters, allowing naval cadets to gain practical sea-based experience beyond national boundaries.
  • Act East Policy: India’s strategic foreign policy initiative aimed at strengthening economic and security ties with Southeast Asian and East Asian nations, expanding regional engagement and maritime cooperation.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Long-Range Training Deployment (LRTD) by First Training Squadron (1TS)
Announcement date January 7, 2026
Location Deployment to Southeast Asia (Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand)
Issuing authority Indian Navy, under Southern Naval Command
Policy/series name 110th Integrated Officers’ Training Course (IOTC) and Act East Policy
Key figures Naval Cadets, 1TS Command Staff, Indian Navy
Purpose/reason Cadet operational training, strengthening regional maritime cooperation
Feature details INS Tir, INS Shardul, INS Sujata, ICGS Sarathi deployed; port calls in SE Asia
Validity or status Deployment ongoing
Strategic/significant value Demonstrates naval professionalism, Indo-Pacific engagement, maritime diplomacy

14. What is the primary aim of India’s Mission Sudarshan Chakra?
A) Launching a new anti-satellite missile system
B) Establishing a naval cyber defence grid
C) Building a multi-layered air defence shield against drones
D) Developing new fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force
E) Creating an underwater surveillance network
Answer: C) Building a multi-layered air defence shield against drones

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Mission Sudarshan Chakra for drone defence
  • Location: Nationwide, with a focus on sensitive border regions
  • Date: January 2026 (announced)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Launch of a national air defence programme—Mission Sudarshan Chakra—to establish an integrated, layered shield against aerial threats, especially unmanned aerial systems (drones).
  • Objectives:
    • To neutralise emerging drone threats, enhance surveillance capabilities, and modernise India’s air defence infrastructure by 2035, with special focus on border protection, real-time threat response, and networked defence operations.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Mission Sudarshan Chakra:
    • A national-level programme launched by India to build a multi-layered, integrated air defence system targeting drones, fighter aircraft, and missiles with completion targeted by 2035.
  • CUAS (Counter Unmanned Aerial System) Grid:
    • A joint initiative by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force to create a unified system integrating sensors, data centres, and response teams for rapid drone detection and neutralisation.
  • Soft-Kill and Hard-Kill Measures:
    • Counter-drone techniques where soft-kill involves non-destructive methods like jamming and signal disruption, while hard-kill includes physical destruction via lasers, kinetic interceptors, and directed energy weapons.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Mission Sudarshan Chakra
Announcement date January 2026
Location Nationwide (focus on border and strategic zones)
Issuing authority Ministry of Defence, Government of India
Policy/series name Integrated Air Defence Modernisation
Key figures Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force (joint development of CUAS)
Purpose/reason To counter rising drone threats and modern aerial challenges
Feature details Multi-layered air shield, CUAS grid, soft-kill and hard-kill technologies
Validity or status Implementation target by 2035
Strategic/significant value Enhances border security, supports Act East/West Policy, deters drone warfare

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 09

15. Which major climate-related body did the U.S. exit as part of its 2026 executive order withdrawing from 66 international organisations?
A) UNEP
B) UNFCCC
C) UNDP
D) IRENA
E) IPCC
Answer: B) UNFCCC

Event and Location:

  • Event: U.S. withdrawal from 66 international organizations via executive order
  • Location: United States (impact: global)
  • Date: January 7, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The United States, under President Donald Trump, announced a mass withdrawal from 66 international organizations through an executive order aimed at reassessing U.S. participation in multilateral institutions.
  • Objectives: The move aims to reduce U.S. involvement in organizations considered redundant, inefficient, or ideologically misaligned, and to redirect focus toward strategic competition, particularly with China, while limiting engagement in global climate and development agendas.

Important Terms Explained:

  • UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change): Adopted in 1992, this foundational climate treaty underpins the Paris Agreement and serves as the main legal framework for international efforts on climate change mitigation and adaptation.
  • International Solar Alliance (ISA): Launched in 2015 by India and France, this alliance promotes solar energy deployment in tropical nations through collaboration, technology transfer, and financial support.
  • Executive Order: A legally binding directive issued by the President of the United States to federal agencies, often used to implement policy decisions without needing Congressional approval.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name U.S. withdrawal from 66 international organisations
Announcement date January 7, 2026
Location United States (affecting global institutions)
Issuing authority Executive Order by President Donald Trump
Policy/series name Strategic Recalibration of U.S. Multilateral Engagement
Key figures President Donald Trump
Purpose/reason Reduce U.S. participation in bodies seen as inefficient or ideologically misaligned
Feature details Exit from UNFCCC, ISA, and UN social/development agencies
Validity or status Effective via executive order; reviews ongoing
Strategic/significant value Signals U.S. shift to unilateralism, weakens climate and humanitarian efforts

Schemes – Daily Current Affairs January 09

16. What is the name of the science diplomacy initiative launched by India in 2026 within the Raisina Dialogue framework?
A) Bharat Science Connect
B) Global Science Pact
C) Raisina Tech Diplomacy Forum
D) India Global Science Initiative
E) Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative
Answer: E) Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) 2026
  • Location: New Delhi, India
  • Date: January 2026 (Raisina Dialogue to be held March 5–7, 2026)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: India launched the Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) to embed science and technology policy discussions into its premier geopolitical forum, the Raisina Dialogue.
  • Objectives: The initiative aims to connect global scientific cooperation with foreign policy priorities, ensure equitable global standards, address technology governance, and involve a broad spectrum of stakeholders in shaping science diplomacy.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI): A strategic platform launched by India to discuss science diplomacy, technology governance, and global cooperation, integrated within the Raisina Dialogue, India’s premier foreign policy conference.
  • Science Diplomacy: The use of scientific collaborations among nations to address global challenges and build partnerships that influence diplomatic and international policy outcomes.
  • Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA): The top scientific advisory body to the Government of India, responsible for advising on science, technology, innovation, and policy formulation at the national and international level.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) 2026
Announcement date January 2026
Location New Delhi, India
Issuing authority Office of PSA and Observer Research Foundation (ORF)
Policy/series name Raisina Dialogue – Science and Technology Track
Key figures Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Dr. Samir Saran
Purpose/reason To connect global science policy with diplomacy and strategic cooperation
Feature details Plenaries, expert roundtables, and sessions on emerging technologies
Validity or status Active from 2026 Raisina Dialogue cycle
Strategic/significant value Boosts India’s global role in science diplomacy, especially from a Global South perspective

17. Which Indian state launched the country’s first Deeptech Startup Policy in 2025–26?
A) Karnataka
B) Telangana
C) Maharashtra
D) Tamil Nadu
E) Gujarat
Answer: D) Tamil Nadu

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of India’s first Deeptech Startup Policy
  • Location: Tamil Nadu, India
  • Date: January 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Tamil Nadu launched the Tamil Nadu Deep-Tech Startup Policy 2025–26, aiming to support 100 deeptech startups with a ₹100 crore fund.
  • Objectives: To transform high-end scientific innovations into scalable businesses, promote intellectual property creation, and position Tamil Nadu as a hub for frontier technology sectors.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Deeptech: Refers to startups based on scientific discovery or engineering innovation with long development cycles, often in areas like AI, biotech, or semiconductors.
  • Tamil Nadu Deep-Tech Startup Policy: A state policy launched to fund and support 100 deeptech startups through financial aid, infrastructure, mentorship, and global exposure.
  • Umagine: Tamil Nadu’s flagship technology conference aimed at connecting startups, investors, academia, and global tech leaders.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Tamil Nadu Deep-Tech Startup Policy 2025–26
Announcement date January 9, 2026
Location Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority Government of Tamil Nadu
Policy/series name Tamil Nadu Deep-Tech Startup Policy 2025–26
Key figures M. K. Stalin, Palanivel Thiaga Rajan
Purpose/reason Support deeptech startups and turn R&D into scalable businesses
Feature details ₹100 crore fund for 100 startups, industry partnerships, global exposure
Validity or status Active for FY 2025–26
Strategic/significant value Makes Tamil Nadu a national leader in science-based innovation

18. What is the name of the Aadhaar mascot launched by UIDAI to enhance citizen-friendly communication?
A) Sahyog
B) Janmitra
C) Udai
D) Digidost
E) Suraksha
Answer: C) Udai

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Aadhaar mascot ‘Udai’ for citizen-friendly communication
  • Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (official launch)
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: UIDAI launched the Aadhaar mascot ‘Udai’ to simplify communication on Aadhaar services using a relatable, animated character.
  • Objectives: To make Aadhaar-related information more understandable, inclusive, and citizen-centric, especially for first-time users, senior citizens, and people in rural and remote areas.

Important Terms Explained:

  • UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India): A statutory authority under the Ministry of Electronics and IT, responsible for issuing Aadhaar numbers and managing Aadhaar infrastructure.
  • Aadhaar: A 12-digit unique identification number issued to Indian residents based on their biometric and demographic data.
  • MyGov Platform: A citizen engagement platform launched by the Indian government for participatory governance and public involvement in national initiatives.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Aadhaar mascot ‘Udai’
Announcement date January 2026
Location Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Issuing authority Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)
Policy/series name Aadhaar Public Communication Initiative
Key figures Neelkanth Mishra, Bhuvnesh Kumar, Vivek C Verma
Purpose/reason To simplify Aadhaar communication and promote inclusivity
Feature details Mascot will explain Aadhaar updates, usage, verification
Validity or status Launched and active in public outreach
Strategic/significant value Enhances digital governance and citizen engagement

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 09

19. Where was India’s first fully paperless district court inaugurated in January 2026?
A) Kochi
B) Kalpetta
C) Thiruvananthapuram
D) Kannur
E) Ernakulam
Answer: B) Kalpetta

Event and Location:

  • Event: Inauguration of India’s First Fully Paperless District Court
  • Location: Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala
  • Date: January 6, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant virtually inaugurated India’s first fully paperless district court, developed in-house by the Kerala High Court.
  • Objectives: The initiative aims to modernize the judiciary through end-to-end digital functioning, incorporate AI-based judicial tools, enhance efficiency, and provide citizen-centric digital justice access.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Fully Paperless District Court: A district-level court operating entirely through digital systems from case filing to judgment, with no paper usage involved.
  • AI Integration: Use of Artificial Intelligence for features like automatic case summarization, interactive legal assistance, and digital transcription in court operations.
  • Digital Signature: A secure electronic authentication method used for validating legal documents and court judgments digitally, ensuring data integrity and legal credibility.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Inauguration of India’s First Fully Paperless District Court
Announcement date January 6, 2026
Location Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala
Issuing authority Kerala High Court, inaugurated by CJI Surya Kant
Policy/series name Paperless Judiciary Initiative
Key figures Chief Justice of India Surya Kant
Purpose/reason Judicial modernization, AI adoption, efficiency improvement
Feature details AI tools, digital signatures, online filing, e-judgments
Validity or status Operational from January 2026
Strategic/significant value Promotes transparency, faster case disposal, citizen access

20. What was the theme of the National Textiles Ministers’ Conference 2026 held in Guwahati?
A) Innovation in Indian Textiles
B) Make in India for Textiles
C) India’s Textiles: Weaving Growth, Heritage & Innovation
D) Handlooms to High-Tech
E) Indian Textiles: Tradition Meets Trade
Answer: C) India’s Textiles: Weaving Growth, Heritage & Innovation

Event and Location:

  • Event: National Textiles Ministers’ Conference 2026
  • Location: Guwahati, Assam
  • Date: January 8, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with the Government of Assam, organized the National Textiles Ministers’ Conference to engage state and UT textile ministers in strategic deliberations for sectoral growth.
  • Objectives: The conference aims to position India as a global textile manufacturing hub by 2030, promote sustainability, support traditional sectors like handlooms and silk, and facilitate centre-state collaboration for integrated textile value-chain development.

Important Terms Explained:

  • PM MITRA Parks (PM Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel Parks): A flagship initiative by the Government of India to establish large-scale integrated textile parks with world-class infrastructure and value-chain facilities, promoting investment and employment in the sector.
  • “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development and Heritage): The guiding ethos of the conference, signifying the dual focus on economic development and preservation of India’s rich textile heritage and traditional practices.
  • Technical Textiles: A high-growth segment of the industry involving textiles used for functional purposes in sectors like medical, automotive, industrial safety, and infrastructure, beyond regular apparel or fashion use.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name National Textiles Ministers’ Conference 2026
Announcement date January 8, 2026
Location Guwahati, Assam
Issuing authority Ministry of Textiles, Government of India
Policy/series name PM MITRA Parks, Textile Sector Reforms & Strategy
Key figures Giriraj Singh, Pabitra Margherita, Himanta Biswa Sarma
Purpose/reason To position India as a global textile manufacturing hub by 2030
Feature details Technical textiles, handloom revival, North-East focus, value-chain development
Validity or status Ongoing conference (January 8–9, 2026)
Strategic/significant value Enhances centre-state collaboration, promotes sustainable & heritage-linked textile growth

21. Where did the All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 officially begin?
A) Bandipur Tiger Reserve
B) Corbett National Park
C) Kanha Tiger Reserve
D) Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
E) Gir Forest National Park
Answer: D) Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 (AITE-26)
  • Location: Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Erode Forest Division, Tamil Nadu
  • Date: January 6, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Initiation of India’s national-level tiger population census, including documentation of tiger presence, prey base, habitat quality, and ecosystem dynamics using scientific methods.
  • Objectives:
    • To accurately estimate tiger populations, assess prey species density, evaluate habitat conditions, and gather ecological data for future conservation planning and wildlife policy development.

Important Terms Explained:

  • All-India Tiger Estimation (AITE):
    • A nationwide exercise conducted every 4 years to estimate the tiger population and assess ecosystem health through structured field methodologies.
  • Line Transect Method:
    • A widely-used wildlife population sampling technique that involves walking along pre-defined paths to record signs such as pugmarks, scats, sightings, and tracks of animals.
  • National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA):
    • The statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) responsible for implementing Project Tiger and ensuring tiger conservation in India.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 (AITE-26)
Announcement date January 6, 2026
Location Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Erode, Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)
Policy/series name Project Tiger / AITE
Key figures Over 150 trained personnel deployed across 52 beats
Purpose/reason Estimate tiger population and assess ecosystem health
Feature details Line transect surveys, prey base study, vegetation analysis
Validity or status Fieldwork concludes by January 12, data submitted by January 31, 2026
Strategic/significant value Supports long-term conservation and national wildlife policy development

22. Which newly formed district is set to become India’s first Bio-Happy District?
A) Tawang
B) Ziro
C) Keyi Panyor
D) Changlang
E) Siang
Answer: C) Keyi Panyor

Event and Location:

  • Event: Keyi Panyor declared as India’s first Bio-Happy District
  • Location: Arunachal Pradesh, India
  • Date: January 9, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Implementation of the Bio-Happy District initiative in the newly formed Keyi Panyor district by the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation in collaboration with the district administration.
  • Objectives: To integrate biodiversity conservation with human well-being, strengthen livelihoods, improve public health, and create a sustainable development model based on the concept of Biohappiness.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Biohappiness: A development concept introduced by M. S. Swaminathan that defines human well-being as a result of conserving and sustainably using biodiversity to improve nutrition, income, and public health.
  • Bio-Happy District: A district-level development model that uses biodiversity protection as the foundation for economic growth, livelihoods, nutrition, and ecological sustainability.
  • M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation: A research institution working on sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, rural livelihoods, and ecological development.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India’s first Bio-Happy District initiative
Announcement date January 9, 2026
Location Keyi Panyor, Arunachal Pradesh
Issuing authority M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation
Policy/series name Bio-Happy District Programme
Key figures Soumya Swaminathan
Purpose/reason Integrate biodiversity conservation with livelihoods and public health
Feature details Agro-biodiversity mapping, livelihood assessment, ecological evaluation
Validity or status Implementation phase
Strategic/significant value Establishes biodiversity-led sustainable development model for India


Over All Review

Important Days

  • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is observed annually on January 9 to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa in 1915.

Sports 

  • Indian middle-distance runner Jinson Johnson announced his retirement from professional athletics in January 2026 at the age of 34.
  • On January 2026, Usman Khawaja announced his retirement from international cricket after playing his final Ashes Test at the SCG.

Ranking 

  • On January 8, 2026, Uttarakhand Police ranked first in the ICJS 2.0 national rankings with a score of 93.46, as released by NCRB.
  • Bengaluru was ranked the best Indian city for women in 2025 by Avtar based on the City Inclusion Index.

Banking and Finance 

  • In January 2026, the RBI cancelled the Certificate of Registration (CoR) of 35 NBFCs under Section 45-IA(6) of the RBI Act, 1934 for regulatory non-compliance.

Business And Economy

  • The National Statistics Office (NSO) has released the First Advance Estimates (FAE) projecting India’s Real GDP growth at 7.4% for FY 2025–26.

Appointments

  • In January 2026, A.K. Balasubrahmanian was appointed Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for a three-year term.

Awards 

  • On January 6, 2026, Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, was conferred the IEEE Medal of Honour, the highest recognition by the IEEE.
  • On January 9, 2026, Indian Railways conferred the 70th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar–2025 on 100 officers and employees for exemplary service.

Science and Technology

  • In January 2026, Raman Research Institute (RRI) developed a new non-invasive technique to measure cold atoms called Raman Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS).
  • In January 2026, NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope discovered a starless dark matter cloud named Cloud-9 near the spiral galaxy Messier 94.

Defence

  • On January 7, 2026, the First Training Squadron (1TS) of the Indian Navy began a Long-Range Training Deployment (LRTD) to Southeast Asia.
  • India launched Mission Sudarshan Chakra in January 2026 to build a multi-layered air defence system against emerging drone threats.

International Affairs

  • On January 7, 2026, the United States announced its withdrawal from 66 international organisations through an executive order signed by President Donald Trump.

Schemes

  • India launched the Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) in January 2026 to integrate science and technology policy into global diplomacy frameworks.
  • Tamil Nadu became the first Indian state to launch a dedicated Deeptech Startup Policy for 2025–26.
  • UIDAI has launched a new Aadhaar mascot named ‘Udai’ to improve public outreach and simplify Aadhaar-related information.

National Affairs

  • On January 6, 2026, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant inaugurated India’s first fully paperless district court in Kalpetta, Kerala.
  • The National Textiles Ministers’ Conference 2026 was inaugurated in Guwahati, Assam, on January 8, 2026, under the theme “India’s Textiles: Weaving Growth, Heritage & Innovation.”
  • The All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 officially began at Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu on January 6, 2026.
  • Keyi Panyor district of Arunachal Pradesh is set to become India’s first Bio-Happy District.

DOWNLOAD TODAY’S CURRENT AFFAIRS PDF – CLICK HERE

You Must Also Read Daily Current Affairs January 08

Our Products

  • Current Affairs Package ( 1 Year Validity ) – Click Here

  • All in One – 1 Year Subscription – Click Here

  • Banking Awareness Video Course – Click Here

  • Insurance Awareness Video Course – Click Here