Daily Current Affairs January 12

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 12. 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 12 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs January 12

1. When is National Youth Day celebrated annually in India to commemorate Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary?
A) January 10
B) January 11
C) January 12
D) January 15
E) January 26
Answer: C) January 12

Event and Location:

  • Event: Celebration of National Youth Day 2026
  • Location: Nationwide across India
  • Date: January 12, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Nationwide celebrations held to honour the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda through events in educational institutions, cultural programs, youth conferences, and community services.
  • Objectives: To promote youth empowerment, leadership, moral values, and their active role in nation-building, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Important Terms Explained:

  • National Youth Day: An annual observance on January 12, established in 1984 by the Government of India to celebrate the ideals and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda, aiming to motivate the youth toward service and development.
  • Swami Vivekananda: A 19th-century spiritual leader and philosopher born on January 12, 1863, known for introducing Indian philosophy, Vedanta, and Yoga to the West and inspiring the foundation of the Ramakrishna Mission.
  • Viksit Bharat @2047: A government vision targeting a developed India by 2047, emphasizing holistic youth participation in economic, social, and technological progress.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name National Youth Day 2026
Announcement date Originally declared in 1984
Location Across India
Issuing authority Government of India & Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Policy/series name National Youth Day / National Youth Week
Key figures Swami Vivekananda, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
Purpose/reason To honour Swami Vivekananda and promote youth leadership and empowerment
Feature details Competitions, cultural events, seminars, NSS & NCC service initiatives
Validity or status Celebrated annually on January 12
Strategic/significant value Youth mobilization toward nation-building and Viksit Bharat @2047 vision

Sports – Daily Current Affairs January 12

2. Who did Virat Kohli surpass to become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket?
A) Mahela Jayawardene
B) Ricky Ponting
C) Jacques Kallis
D) Kumar Sangakkara
E) Brian Lara
Answer: D) Kumar Sangakkara

Event and Location:

  • Event: Virat Kohli becomes second-highest run-scorer in international cricket
  • Location: First ODI vs New Zealand, Vadodara, India
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara’s record of 28,016 runs during a 93-run innings in the 1st ODI against New Zealand.
  • Objectives: To lead India to a series victory and continue his legacy as one of the most successful cricketers in international cricket across all formats.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Virat Kohli: A former captain of the Indian cricket team and one of the game’s modern greats, known for his aggressive batting and unmatched consistency across formats. He made his debut in 2008 and currently plays only ODIs.
  • International Runs: Refers to the total number of runs scored across Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals (T20Is), combined.
  • Sachin Tendulkar: Retired Indian cricketer and the highest run-scorer in international cricket history with 34,357 runs.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Virat Kohli becomes second-highest international run-scorer
Announcement date January 2026
Location Vadodara, Gujarat (1st ODI vs New Zealand)
Issuing authority Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
Policy/series name India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2026
Key figures Virat Kohli, Kumar Sangakkara, Sachin Tendulkar
Purpose/reason Crossed 28,068 international runs, moving to No. 2 on all-time list
Feature details 91-ball 93 runs; earned Player of the Match; India took 1–0 series lead
Validity or status Active cricketer; currently focusing on ODIs
Strategic/significant value Highlights Kohli’s career longevity and consistency across cricket formats

Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs January 12

3. What is India’s total fish production for FY 2024–25, as recently reported?
A) 168.95 lakh tonnes
B) 197.75 lakh tonnes
C) 182.60 lakh tonnes
D) 155.80 lakh tonnes
E) 212.45 lakh tonnes
Answer: B) 197.75 lakh tonnes

Event and Location:

  • Event: Doubling of fish production and employment surge in India’s fisheries sector
  • Location: Nationwide (India)
  • Date: January 12, 2026 (report published)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Track growth in India’s fish production and employment through government schemes and investments since FY 2013–14.
  • Objectives: To enhance rural livelihoods, boost exports, strengthen nutritional security, and position India as a global fisheries leader.

Important Terms Explained:

  • PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana): A flagship scheme to improve fisheries productivity, infrastructure, and value chains.
  • FIDF (Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund): A fund launched to provide financial assistance for modern fisheries infrastructure.
  • PMMKSSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana): A welfare initiative supporting fish farmers with credit, insurance, and income support.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Doubling of fish production and rise in employment
Announcement date January 12, 2026
Location All India
Issuing authority Department of Fisheries, Govt. of India
Policy/series name Blue Revolution, PMMSY, PMMKSSY, FIDF
Key figures ₹38,572 crore in investments; 74.66 lakh jobs
Purpose/reason Boost productivity, create jobs, improve exports and fisher welfare
Feature details Modern aquaculture, KCC loans, insurance, seafood export infrastructure
Validity or status Active (FY 2024–25 statistics reported)
Strategic/significant value India ranks 2nd globally in fish production; major source of rural livelihoods

 

Appointments – Daily Current Affairs January 12

4. Who was sworn in as the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court in January 2026?
A) Justice Hima Kohli
B) Justice Indira Banerjee
C) Justice Bela Trivedi
D) Justice Revati Mohite Dere
E) Justice Gita Mittal
Answer: D) Justice Revati Mohite Dere

Event and Location:

  • Event: Appointment of Justice Revati Mohite Dere as first woman Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court
  • Location: Shillong, Meghalaya
  • Date: January 10, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Swearing-in of Justice Revati Mohite Dere as Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court, following recommendation by the Supreme Court Collegium.
  • Objectives: To ensure efficient judicial administration in Meghalaya and enhance gender representation in higher judiciary, especially in a matrilineal society with limited female presence in top constitutional roles.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Chief Justice of a High Court: The head of a High Court, responsible for roster allocation, case management, and overall judicial functioning; appointed by the President of India based on Supreme Court Collegium recommendations.
  • Supreme Court Collegium: A panel of senior Supreme Court judges led by the Chief Justice of India, which recommends appointments and transfers of judges to the High Courts and Supreme Court.
  • Meghalaya High Court: The constitutional court for the state of Meghalaya, located in Shillong; established in 2013 after separation from the Gauhati High Court.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Appointment of first woman Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court
Announcement date Collegium recommendation on December 18, 2025; oath on January 10, 2026
Location Shillong, Meghalaya
Issuing authority President of India (on recommendation of Supreme Court Collegium)
Policy/series name High Court Judicial Appointments
Key figures Justice Revati Mohite Dere, Governor Chandrashekhar H Vijayashankar
Purpose/reason Strengthen gender representation and judicial leadership in Northeast India
Feature details Sworn in at Lok Bhavan’s Durbar Hall; succeeded Justice Soumen Sen
Validity or status Officially appointed and in service
Strategic/significant value First woman CJ in Meghalaya; symbol of gender inclusivity in judiciary

5. Who has been appointed as Whole-Time Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank to oversee consumer banking and analytics from January 2026?
A) Ashok Vaswani
B) Anup Kumar Saha
C) Uday Kotak
D) Sanjiv Bajaj
E) Sandeep Bakhshi
Answer: B) Anup Kumar Saha

Event and Location:

  • Event: Appointment of Anup Kumar Saha as Whole-Time Director at Kotak Mahindra Bank
  • Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra (Corporate HQ of Kotak Mahindra Bank)
  • Date: January 12, 2026 (Effective from)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Appointment of Anup Kumar Saha to oversee consumer banking, marketing, and data analytics at Kotak Mahindra Bank as part of senior leadership strengthening.
  • Objectives: To deepen customer engagement, drive digital transformation, promote data-led strategies, and strengthen Kotak’s long-term growth in India’s evolving banking landscape.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Whole-Time Director: A senior executive member of a company’s board who has full-time operational responsibilities, playing a key role in strategy and management oversight.
  • Consumer Banking: Also called retail banking, refers to banking services for individual customers, such as savings, personal loans, and digital financial products.
  • Data-Driven Lending: A process in which banks or NBFCs use advanced analytics, AI, and customer data to assess credit risk and personalize financial products.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Appointment of Anup Kumar Saha as Whole-Time Director
Announcement date January 12, 2026
Location Kotak Mahindra Bank Headquarters, Mumbai
Issuing authority Kotak Mahindra Bank (subject to regulatory approvals)
Policy/series name Senior Leadership Appointment
Key figures Anup Kumar Saha, Ashok Vaswani (MD & CEO)
Purpose/reason Strengthen leadership, drive customer-centric digital strategy
Feature details Responsible for consumer banking, marketing, and analytics
Validity or status Appointed; subject to necessary approvals
Strategic/significant value Supports Kotak’s transformation, analytics-driven banking, and competitive leadership

Awards – Daily Current Affairs January 12

6. Who won the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for gender-inclusive peacekeeping under UNMISS in South Sudan?
A) Major Nivedita Sharma
B) Major Swathi Shantha Kumar
C) Major Priya Mehra
D) Major Kavita Kaur
E) Major Anjali Joshi
Answer: B) Major Swathi Shantha Kumar

Event and Location:

  • Event: Major Swathi Shantha Kumar wins UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for gender-inclusive peacekeeping
  • Location: South Sudan (under United Nations Mission in South Sudan – UNMISS)
  • Date: January 2026 (Award Year: 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Deployment of gender-inclusive strategies in peacekeeping operations through the Indian Engagement Team under UNMISS.
  • Objectives: To increase women’s participation, foster community trust, enhance local security through inclusive leadership, and contribute to sustainable peacebuilding in conflict-affected regions.

Important Terms Explained:

  • UNMISS: United Nations Mission in South Sudan, a UN peacekeeping operation tasked with civilian protection, peace implementation, and humanitarian support in South Sudan.
  • UN Secretary-General’s Award: A prestigious recognition presented by the UN Secretary-General to individuals or teams for outstanding contributions to peacekeeping, especially in areas like gender inclusion, innovation, and community impact.
  • Equal Partners, Lasting Peace: A field initiative led by Major Swathi under UNMISS, focusing on empowering women peacekeepers, conducting safer patrols, and increasing community-level engagement in remote areas.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Major Swathi wins UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025
Announcement date January 2026
Location South Sudan (UNMISS operation)
Issuing authority United Nations (Secretary-General António Guterres)
Policy/series name UN Peacekeeping Gender Initiative
Key figures Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, Indian Army, UNMISS
Purpose/reason Recognition of gender-inclusive peacekeeping leadership
Feature details Project “Equal Partners, Lasting Peace”; supported 5,000+ women
Validity or status Awarded for 2025; formally announced in January 2026
Strategic/significant value Promotes inclusive peacebuilding and global recognition of India’s role in UN missions

7. Which Indian industrialist was honoured with the Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia by the Italian government in 2026?
A) Ratan Tata
B) Shrinivas Dempo
C) Anand Mahindra
D) Sanjiv Bajaj
E) Nandan Nilekani
Answer: B) Shrinivas Dempo

Event and Location:

  • Event: Shrinivas Dempo awarded Italy’s prestigious civilian honour
  • Location: Goa, India (Award presented by Consul General of Italy in Mumbai)
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Conferring of the Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia on Shrinivas Dempo for his role in advancing India–Italy cooperation and supporting Italian nationals in India.
  • Objectives: To recognise significant contributions by a non-state actor in enhancing bilateral relations, promoting cultural diplomacy, and deepening economic and community-level ties between India and Italy.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia: A prestigious Italian civilian order, awarded to individuals—Italians or foreign nationals—who have made outstanding contributions to fostering friendly relations and cooperation with Italy in fields such as business, culture, or social work.
  • Shrinivas Dempo: A prominent Goa-based industrialist, Chairman of the Dempo Group, noted for his efforts in supporting the Italian community in India and strengthening Indo-Italian partnerships.
  • Soft Power Diplomacy: A form of diplomatic influence that uses cultural, economic, and people-to-people exchanges rather than formal political or military means to strengthen international ties.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Awarding of Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia to Shrinivas Dempo
Announcement date January 2026
Location Goa, India
Issuing authority Government of Italy
Policy/series name Order of the Star of Italy (civilian honours series)
Key figures Shrinivas Dempo, Walter Ferrara (Consul General of Italy in Mumbai)
Purpose/reason To honour contributions to India–Italy bilateral cooperation and soft diplomacy
Feature details Support to Italian citizens, promotion of business, cultural and community ties
Validity or status Officially conferred in a formal ceremony in Goa
Strategic/significant value Reinforces grassroots diplomacy and acknowledges India’s role in international cooperation

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs January 12

8. Which stage of the PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission experienced a flight anomaly, prompting post-launch analysis by ISRO?
A) PS1
B) PS2
C) PS3
D) PS4
E) Booster Stage
Answer: C) PS3

Event and Location:

  • Event: Anomaly encountered during third stage (PS3) of PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission
  • Location: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
  • Date: January 12, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Launch of EOS-N1 and 15 co-passenger satellites using PSLV-DL variant, including strategic and commercial payloads.
  • Objectives: To place payloads in Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO), conduct a re-entry experiment with PS4 and KID capsule, and expand India’s commercial satellite launch profile through public-private collaboration.

Important Terms Explained:

  • PSLV-C62: The 64th mission of India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, known for its reliability in launching satellites into Sun Synchronous Orbit. This launch used the PSLV-DL variant, which includes two strap-on boosters.
  • EOS-N1: An Earth Observation Satellite developed for strategic imaging applications, designed to support surveillance, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.
  • NewSpace India Limited (NSIL): The commercial arm of ISRO, responsible for enabling and managing India’s commercial space missions, including launch contracts and satellite services.
  • KID Capsule: A re-entry experiment payload developed by Orbital Paradigm (Spain) in partnership with RIDE (France), aimed at demonstrating return-to-Earth capabilities.
  • Anvesha: A strategic surveillance satellite developed by DRDO, intended to enhance India’s high-resolution imaging capabilities for national security purposes.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission with Anomaly
Announcement date January 12, 2026
Location Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
Issuing authority Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Policy/series name PSLV Mission Series
Key figures EOS-N1, Anvesha, Dhruva Space, NSIL
Purpose/reason Launch of Earth observation and surveillance satellites, private payloads
Feature details 22.5-hour countdown, PSLV-DL variant, 15 co-passenger satellites
Validity or status Anomaly observed in PS3 stage; data under technical analysis
Strategic/significant value Enhances surveillance capability, promotes private participation in space sector

9. What is the name of India’s first legged mobile manipulator, developed by xTerra Robotics from IIT Kanpur?
A) SVAN M2
B) AGNI-BOT
C) ASTRA
D) SCORP
E) VYOM-BOT
Answer: D) SCORP

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of SCORP – India’s first legged mobile manipulator
  • Location: Developed by xTerra Robotics, incubated at IIT Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
  • Date: January 12, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Introduction of SCORP, a robotic platform combining legged mobility with a robotic arm, for high-precision inspection and autonomous manipulation in complex environments.
  • Objectives: To advance indigenous deep-tech robotics, enhance automation, inspection, and public safety, and reduce human risk in hazardous industrial and environmental scenarios.

Important Terms Explained:

  • SCORP: India’s first legged mobile manipulator, capable of moving on uneven terrain and performing complex tasks using its robotic arm; developed by xTerra Robotics at IIT Kanpur.
  • xTerra Robotics: A deep-tech robotics startup incubated at IIT Kanpur, known for pioneering legged robotic systems like SVAN M2, India’s first commercial quadruped robot.
  • Legged Mobile Manipulator: A robot that walks (instead of using wheels) and is equipped with a manipulator arm, allowing it to operate in complex terrains and interact physically with its environment.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of SCORP – India’s first legged mobile manipulator
Announcement date January 12, 2026
Location IIT Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Issuing authority xTerra Robotics
Policy/series name Indigenous Robotics Innovation
Key figures xTerra Robotics, IIT Kanpur
Purpose/reason Enhance India’s robotics capabilities in inspection, safety, and automation
Feature details Legged mobility, robotic arm, stereo imaging, anomaly detection
Validity or status Officially launched and operational
Strategic/significant value Major breakthrough in Indian deep-tech; boosts Aatmanirbhar Bharat in robotics

Defence – Daily Current Affairs January 12

10. Where was Exercise Sanjha Shakti conducted by the Indian Army to enhance disaster response and civil-military coordination?
A) Jaisalmer Range
B) Dighi Hills Range
C) Sikkim Valley
D) Ranikhet Base
E) Siliguri Corridor
Answer: B) Dighi Hills Range

Event and Location:

  • Event: Indian Army conducts Exercise ‘Sanjha Shakti’ to boost disaster response coordination
  • Location: Dighi Hills Range, Pune, Maharashtra
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Execution of joint military–civilian disaster response drill under Southern Command involving armed forces, police, fire services, and other emergency agencies.
  • Objectives: To enhance interoperability, improve communication during crises, build disaster response readiness, and strengthen civil–military synergy for public safety and rear area security.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Exercise Sanjha Shakti: A joint disaster response military exercise led by the Indian Army, aimed at testing and improving coordination with civilian agencies in emergency situations.
  • Southern Command: One of the operational commands of the Indian Army, responsible for military operations in the southern states of India, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa.
  • Military–Civil Fusion: Strategic collaboration between armed forces and civilian organizations to enhance national resilience and coordinated response in times of crises or disasters.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Exercise Sanjha Shakti
Announcement date January 2026
Location Dighi Hills Range, Pune, Maharashtra
Issuing authority Indian Army – Southern Command
Policy/series name Civil–Military Coordination Exercise
Key figures Southern Command, Maharashtra Police, Force One, Fire Services
Purpose/reason To test and improve civil–military disaster response capability
Feature details Joint participation of over 350 personnel and 16 civilian agencies
Validity or status Successfully conducted
Strategic/significant value Strengthens national disaster preparedness and inter-agency coordination

11. Which missile system was successfully tested by DRDO with top-attack and fire-and-forget capability in January 2026?
A) Nag
B) Helina
C) MPATGM
D) Spike
E) Akash-NG
Answer: C) MPATGM

Event and Location:

  • Event: DRDO successfully flight-tests MPATGM with top-attack capability
  • Location: KK Ranges, Maharashtra
  • Date: January 11, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Conduct of a successful test of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) against a moving target to validate fire-and-forget and top-attack functionalities.
  • Objectives: To strengthen indigenous anti-tank warfare capabilities, reduce reliance on imports, and support the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the defence sector.

Important Terms Explained:

  • MPATGM (Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile): A third-generation, fire-and-forget, man-portable missile developed by DRDO, designed to destroy modern tanks using top-attack tactics.
  • Top-Attack Capability: A missile guidance feature allowing the projectile to hit the upper, least-armoured section of a tank, improving lethality.
  • Fire-and-Forget Missile: A type of guided missile that requires no further input or tracking from the operator once launched, increasing battlefield survivability.
  • Imaging Infrared (IIR) Seeker: A precision guidance system that detects heat signatures, enabling accurate targeting day and night.
  • Tandem Warhead: A dual-charge warhead designed to penetrate explosive reactive armour (ERA) on modern tanks.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name DRDO flight-tests MPATGM with top-attack capability
Announcement date January 11, 2026
Location KK Ranges, Maharashtra
Issuing authority Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Policy/series name Indigenous Missile Development under Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Key figures DRDO, Bharat Dynamics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited
Purpose/reason To validate anti-tank missile’s fire-and-forget and top-attack features
Feature details IIR seeker, tandem warhead, all-electric control system, portable platform
Validity or status Successfully tested and ready for induction
Strategic/significant value Boosts India’s defence self-reliance; enhances battlefield anti-armour capability

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 12

12. Which European leader visited India in January 2026, leading to key India–Germany agreements on migration, security, and clean energy?
A) Olaf Scholz
B) Emmanuel Macron
C) Rishi Sunak
D) Friedrich Merz
E) Alexander De Croo
Answer: D) Friedrich Merz

Event and Location:

  • Event: India and Germany sign key bilateral pacts during Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit
  • Location: Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, Gujarat
  • Date: January 12, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Signing of bilateral agreements on migration, security, and clean energy during high-level talks between PM Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
  • Objectives: To deepen strategic partnership, facilitate skilled migration, enhance clean energy cooperation, expand security engagement, and boost people-to-people connectivity through visa-free transit.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Global Skills Partnership: A bilateral cooperation model aimed at structured and ethical migration of skilled professionals, with focus on sectors like healthcare, benefiting both source and destination countries.
  • Visa-Free Transit: A travel facilitation measure allowing Indian citizens to transit through Germany without a visa, easing travel and boosting economic and cultural ties.
  • India–Germany Centre of Excellence: A proposed institutional platform to promote green technologies, climate solutions, and renewable energy innovation as part of sustainable development collaboration.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India–Germany Bilateral Talks and Agreement Signing
Announcement date January 12, 2026
Location Gandhinagar & Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Issuing authority Government of India and Government of Germany
Policy/series name Strategic Partnership Initiatives
Key figures PM Narendra Modi, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, S. Jaishankar, Ajit Doval
Purpose/reason Strengthen bilateral cooperation across migration, energy, security, culture
Feature details Visa-free transit, migration pact, Centre of Excellence on Clean Energy
Validity or status Agreements signed and announced during official visit
Strategic/significant value Boosts economic ties, skilled mobility, cultural diplomacy, and green innovation

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 12

13. Which national infrastructure body created four Guinness World Records in January 2026 during the construction of the Bengaluru–Kadapa–Vijayawada Economic Corridor?
A) Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
B) Central Public Works Department
C) National Highways Authority of India
D) Indian Road Congress
E) Bharat Infra Development Council
Answer: C) National Highways Authority of India

Event and Location:

  • Event: NHAI sets four Guinness World Records on Bengaluru–Kadapa–Vijayawada Corridor
  • Location: Near Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh (on NH-544G)
  • Date: January 6, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Execution of high-speed infrastructure development under NH-544G with record-breaking laying of Bituminous Concrete across large stretches within limited timeframes.
  • Objectives: To demonstrate India’s rapid road-building capabilities, enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and promote economic integration between Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and surrounding regions.

Important Terms Explained:

  • National Highways Authority of India (NHAI): An autonomous agency under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, responsible for developing and managing India’s national highway network, including expressways and economic corridors.
  • Bituminous Concrete: A high-quality road construction material made of bitumen and aggregates, widely used for flexible pavements, especially in high-speed roadways.
  • Economic Corridor: A high-capacity transportation route designed to promote industrial growth, logistics efficiency, and regional development by improving access and connectivity across key economic zones.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name NHAI sets Guinness World Records on Bengaluru–Kadapa–Vijayawada Corridor
Announcement date January 6, 2026
Location Near Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh (NH-544G)
Issuing authority National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)
Policy/series name Bengaluru–Kadapa–Vijayawada Economic Corridor Project
Key figures NHAI, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
Purpose/reason Showcase fast-paced and advanced highway construction technology in India
Feature details Longest and heaviest bituminous concrete laying in 24 hours, over 52 km
Validity or status Guinness World Record officially certified
Strategic/significant value Boost to India’s infrastructure capability and global recognition for road construction

14. Which sanctuary in Kerala has been renamed as the state’s first butterfly sanctuary?
A) Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
B) Periyar Tiger Reserve
C) Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
D) Silent Valley National Park
E) Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
Answer: C) Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

Event and Location:

  • Event: Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary renamed as Kerala’s first Butterfly Sanctuary
  • Location: Kannur district, Kerala
  • Date: January 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Renaming of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary to highlight butterfly conservation and ecological importance in the Western Ghats.
  • Objectives: To protect butterfly species and fragile ecosystems, encourage community participation, promote eco-tourism, and support biodiversity awareness and sustainable development.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary: Kerala’s first official butterfly sanctuary, formed by renaming the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in 2026, dedicated to conserving butterfly habitats and promoting environmental awareness.
  • Western Ghats: A UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, this mountain range supports rich biodiversity and is one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity.
  • Butterfly Village: A proposed eco-conservation project involving local panchayats—Kelakam, Kanichar, Aralam, and Muzhakunnu—aimed at combining conservation, tourism, and sustainable livelihoods.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Aralam declared as Kerala’s first Butterfly Sanctuary
Announcement date January 2026
Location Kannur district, Kerala
Issuing authority Kerala State Government & State Board for Wildlife
Policy/series name Wildlife and Insect Conservation Policy
Key figures Kerala Forest Department, Local Panchayats (Kelakam, Kanichar, etc.)
Purpose/reason To promote conservation of butterflies and ecological awareness
Feature details Renaming of Aralam, plans for Butterfly Village, community involvement
Validity or status Officially renamed and recognized as a butterfly sanctuary
Strategic/significant value Enhances insect conservation, eco-tourism, and forest ecosystem protection

15. Which city hosted the fifth Tri-Services Veterans Day parade in January 2026 ahead of Veterans Day on January 14?
A) New Delhi
B) Pune
C) Bengaluru
D) Mumbai
E) Chennai
Answer: D) Mumbai

Event and Location:

  • Event: Fifth Tri-Services Veterans Day parade held to honour armed forces veterans
  • Location: Marine Drive, Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • Date: January 11, 2026 (Veterans Day observed annually on January 14)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Conduct of a unified military veterans’ parade featuring participation from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, organized by the Navy Foundation Mumbai Chapter with support from the Western Naval Command.
  • Objectives: To honour the service and sacrifices of military veterans, promote public awareness about Veterans Day, and recognize India’s military legacy and unity across the armed forces.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Tri-Services Veterans Day: Observed annually on January 14 to honour Indian military veterans, commemorating the retirement of Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army post-independence in 1953.
  • Navy Foundation Mumbai Chapter: A regional veterans’ body under the Indian Navy that organizes events and welfare programs for naval veterans in the Mumbai area.
  • Western Naval Command: The operational command of the Indian Navy headquartered in Mumbai, overseeing naval operations along India’s western seaboard.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Fifth Tri-Services Veterans Day Parade
Announcement date January 11, 2026
Location Marine Drive, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Issuing authority Navy Foundation Mumbai Chapter with support from Western Naval Command
Policy/series name Tri-Services Veterans Day Observance
Key figures 500+ veterans, Krishna Swaminathan (Chief Guest), senior tri-service officers
Purpose/reason To honour armed forces veterans and promote unity across military services
Feature details Participation of gallantry awardees, octogenarians, and officers from all services
Validity or status Successfully held ahead of Veterans Day 2026
Strategic/significant value Reinforces respect for military veterans and celebrates India’s defence heritage

16. Which city is hosting the Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026 as part of India’s national AI framework?
A) Varanasi
B) Prayagraj
C) Noida
D) Lucknow
E) Ghaziabad
Answer: D) Lucknow

Event and Location:

  • Event: Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026
  • Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
  • Date: January 12–13, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Hosting of a regional-level AI conference under the IndiaAI framework by MeitY, IndiaAI, and the Government of Uttar Pradesh, to serve as a precursor to the national IndiaAI Impact Summit 2026.
  • Objectives: To promote responsible, inclusive, and scalable AI adoption; showcase AI-driven governance and healthcare innovation in Uttar Pradesh; and facilitate multi-stakeholder collaboration between government, industry, academia, and startups.

Important Terms Explained:

  • IndiaAI: A national AI ecosystem and mission launched by MeitY to support safe, inclusive, and trustworthy AI development and deployment across India.
  • MeitY: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India, responsible for promoting IT and digital technologies including AI, cybersecurity, and innovation.
  • Responsible AI: The ethical application of artificial intelligence ensuring fairness, transparency, inclusivity, and human oversight, particularly in public sector services.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026
Announcement date January 11, 2026 (by PIB Delhi)
Location Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Issuing authority IndiaAI, MeitY, Government of Uttar Pradesh
Policy/series name IndiaAI Regional Impact Conference Series (8 regional events)
Key figures MeitY, state officials, AI startups, academic institutions
Purpose/reason Promote AI adoption for governance, healthcare, and social good
Feature details Thematic sessions on AI in healthcare, diagnostics, governance, startups
Validity or status Scheduled for January 12–13, 2026
Strategic/significant value Serves as precursor to IndiaAI Impact Summit 2026; boosts UP’s AI leadership

17. Where was a new APEDA Regional Office inaugurated in January 2026 to boost agri exports from Chhattisgarh?
A) Bilaspur
B) Jagdalpur
C) Durg
D) Raipur
E) Ambikapur
Answer: D) Raipur

Event and Location:

  • Event: Inauguration of APEDA’s Regional Office to support agri and processed food exports
  • Location: Raipur, Chhattisgarh
  • Date: January 2026 (during 2nd India International Rice Summit)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Opening of a Regional Office by APEDA in Raipur to facilitate export registration, certification, advisory, and market access for agri-exporters in Chhattisgarh.
  • Objectives: To enhance agricultural and processed food exports, promote GI-tagged rice varieties, empower farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and integrate Chhattisgarh with global agri-value chains.

Important Terms Explained:

  • APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority): A statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, responsible for promoting export of agricultural and processed food products through certification, branding, and infrastructure support.
  • GI-tagged Rice: Rice varieties granted Geographical Indication status like Jeera Phool Rice and Nagri Dubraj Rice of Chhattisgarh, which are region-specific and have export value.
  • Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK): Nutritionally enhanced rice kernels containing iron, folic acid, and other micronutrients, recently exported from Chhattisgarh to countries like Costa Rica and Papua New Guinea with APEDA support.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Inauguration of APEDA Regional Office in Raipur
Announcement date January 2026
Location Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Issuing authority APEDA (under Ministry of Commerce and Industry)
Policy/series name APEDA’s Regional Outreach for Agri Export Promotion
Key figures Vishnu Deo Sai (CM), Piyush Goyal (Union Commerce Minister)
Purpose/reason Support agri-exporters, boost GI rice and organic exports
Feature details Services include export registration, market access, certification
Validity or status Officially operational
Strategic/significant value Empowers FPOs, decentralizes export facilitation, integrates Chhattisgarh into global agri-trade


Over All Review

Important Days

  • National Youth Day is observed every year on January 12 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

Sports 

  • Virat Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket.

Business And Economy

  • India’s fish production more than doubled to 197.75 lakh tonnes in FY 2024–25 from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013–14.

Appointments

  • Justice Revati Mohite Dere was sworn in as the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court on January 10, 2026.
  • Kotak Mahindra Bank has appointed Anup Kumar Saha as its Whole-Time Director effective January 12, 2026.

Awards 

  • Indian Army’s Major Swathi Shantha Kumar won the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for her leadership in gender-inclusive peacekeeping.
  • Goa-based industrialist Shrinivas Dempo has been awarded the Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia by the Italian government.

Science and Technology

  • ISRO’s PSLV-C62 mission carrying the EOS-N1 satellite experienced an anomaly during the PS3 stage post lift-off from Sriharikota.
  • India launched SCORP, its first legged mobile manipulator, developed by xTerra Robotics at IIT Kanpur.

Defence

  • The Indian Army conducted Exercise Sanjha Shakti in January 2026 at Dighi Hills Range in Pune, Maharashtra.
  • DRDO successfully tested the MPATGM with top-attack and fire-and-forget capability in Maharashtra on January 11, 2026.

International Affairs

  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited India and held strategic talks with PM Narendra Modi in Gandhinagar on January 12, 2026.

National Affairs

  • The National Highways Authority of India set four Guinness World Records on NH-544G near Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh.
  • The Kerala government has renamed Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in the state.
  • Mumbai hosted the fifth edition of the Tri-Services Veterans Day Parade on January 11, 2026 at Marine Drive.
  • Lucknow will host the Uttar Pradesh Regional AI Impact Conference 2026 on January 12–13 under the IndiaAI framework.
  • APEDA inaugurated its Regional Office in Raipur to promote agricultural and processed food exports from Chhattisgarh.

DOWNLOAD TODAY’S CURRENT AFFAIRS PDF – CLICK HERE

You Must Also Read Daily Current Affairs January 10 & 11

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