Daily Current Affairs January 22
Table of Contents
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January 22 | Daily Current Affairs 2025
Sports – Daily Current Affairs January 22
1. Where was the National Paralympic Powerlifting Championship 2026 inaugurated?
A) Dehradun
B) Lucknow
C) Roorkee
D) Bhopal
E) Chandigarh
Answer: C) Roorkee
Event and Location:
- Event: Inauguration of National Paralympic Powerlifting Championship 2026
- Location: Roorkee, Uttarakhand (Virtual inauguration from COER University)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Uttarakhand hosted the National Paralympic Powerlifting Championship, inaugurated by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, focusing on showcasing para-athletic talent.
- Objectives: To promote inclusive sports, empower persons with disabilities, identify emerging para-athletes, and strengthen India’s vision under Khelo India and national sports initiatives.
Important Terms Explained:
- Paralympic Powerlifting: A strength-based sport adapted for athletes with physical impairments. It tests upper body strength and mental resilience, and is part of the Paralympic Games.
- Inclusive Sports: Sporting initiatives designed to include persons with disabilities, promoting equal participation, self-confidence, and social integration through sports.
- Khelo India: A national programme launched in 2018 aimed at the development of sports across grassroots and elite levels. It promotes youth participation, sports infrastructure, and competitive excellence.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | National Paralympic Powerlifting Championship 2026 |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Roorkee, Uttarakhand (COER University) |
| Issuing authority | Paralympic Committee of India / Govt of Uttarakhand |
| Policy/series name | Inclusive Sports Initiative under Khelo India |
| Key figures | Pushkar Singh Dhami (Chief Minister of Uttarakhand) |
| Purpose/reason | Empower para-athletes and promote inclusive, competitive sports |
| Feature details | National-level powerlifting event, virtual inauguration, participation by para-athletes |
| Validity or status | Held successfully in January 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Promotes equal sporting opportunities and positions Uttarakhand as a sports hub |
2. Which major milestone did Saina Nehwal achieve at the London 2012 Olympics?
A) Gold medal in mixed doubles
B) Silver medal in women’s doubles
C) Bronze medal in women’s singles
D) Quarterfinal finish in women’s singles
E) Bronze medal in mixed doubles
Answer: C) Bronze medal in women’s singles
Event and Location:
- Event: Saina Nehwal announces retirement from professional badminton
- Location: India (International sporting impact)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Indian badminton legend Saina Nehwal officially confirmed her retirement from competitive badminton after battling long-term injuries.
- Objectives: To reflect on and honour a historic sporting career that includes Olympic success, global titles, and a transformational impact on Indian badminton, particularly for women in sports.
Important Terms Explained:
- Cartilage Degeneration & Arthritis: Chronic knee conditions that severely limit an athlete’s mobility and endurance. In Saina’s case, these conditions made high-intensity training unsustainable, leading to her retirement.
- Olympic Bronze – London 2012: Saina made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic badminton medal, boosting the sport’s popularity in India.
- World No.1 Ranking (2015): In April 2015, she became World No.1 in women’s singles, a rare achievement for Indian badminton, previously attained only by Prakash Padukone (in men’s singles).
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Saina Nehwal announces retirement from badminton |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Self-announcement by Saina Nehwal |
| Policy/series name | Career Milestone / Sports Retirement |
| Key figures | Saina Nehwal, India’s first Olympic medallist in badminton |
| Purpose/reason | Retirement due to chronic knee injuries (cartilage degeneration, arthritis) |
| Feature details | Olympic bronze, World No.1, multiple medals, Padma honours |
| Validity or status | Officially retired from competitive badminton |
| Strategic/significant value | Pioneered Indian women’s badminton, inspired a generation of athletes |
Ranking – Daily Current Affairs January 22
3. Which city was ranked the safest city in India in the Numbeo Safety Index 2026?
A) Jaipur
B) Ahmedabad
C) Coimbatore
D) Mangaluru
E) Thiruvananthapuram
Answer: D) Mangaluru
Event and Location:
- Event: Release of Numbeo Safety Index 2026 ranking cities based on safety perception
- Location: Global (with Indian highlights)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Numbeo released its Safety Index 2026, ranking 304 global cities based on perceptions of crime, safety, and urban security, using crowd-sourced survey data.
- Objectives: To provide comparative insights into safety levels across cities worldwide, aiding urban governance, planning, and public awareness, and serving as a key source for competitive exams and research.
Top 10 Safest Cities in the World – Numbeo Safety Index 2026
| Global Rank | City | Country | Safety Score |
| 1 | Qingdao | China | 89.2 |
| 2 | Abu Dhabi | UAE | 88.9 |
| 3 | Doha | Qatar | 84.5 |
| 4 | Sharjah | UAE | 84.5 |
| 5 | Dubai | UAE | 83.9 |
| 6 | Taipei | Taiwan | 83.5 |
| 7 | Manama | Bahrain | 82.0 |
| 8 | Muscat | Oman | 81.3 |
| 9 | Hong Kong | China | 78.6 |
| 10 | Chiang Mai | Thailand | 77.9 |
Top 5 Safest Cities in India – Numbeo Safety Index 2026
| India Rank | Global Rank | City | State | Safety Score |
| 1 | 46 | Mangaluru | Karnataka | 74.4 |
| 2 | 87 | Ahmedabad | Gujarat | 68.5 |
| 3 | 106 | Jaipur | Rajasthan | 65.3 |
| 4 | 123 | Coimbatore | Tamil Nadu | 62.0 |
| 5 | 132 | Thiruvananthapuram | Kerala | 61.0 |
Safest Countries (Top 3) – Numbeo Safety Index 2026
| Country Rank | Country | Safety Score |
| 1 | United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 86.0 |
| 2 | Qatar | 84.8 |
| 3 | Andorra | 84.8 |
Least Safe Countries (Bottom 3) – Numbeo Safety Index 2026
| Country Rank (Bottom) | Country |
| 1 | Papua New Guinea |
| 2 | Venezuela |
| 3 | Haiti |
Important Terms Explained:
- Numbeo Safety Index: An annual global ranking that evaluates cities based on crowd-sourced perceptions of safety and crime levels, covering metrics like violent crime, property crime, and walking safety.
- Perceived Safety Score: A statistical representation of public responses regarding urban safety, with a scale from 0 (least safe) to 100 (most safe).
- Safety Level Classification: Cities are categorized into five bands: Very Low (below 20), Low (20–40), Moderate (40–60), High (60–80), and Very High (above 80) based on their scores.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Release of Numbeo Safety Index 2026 |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Global (304 cities ranked) |
| Issuing authority | Numbeo |
| Policy/series name | Numbeo Safety Index |
| Key figures | Mangaluru (India Rank 1), Qingdao (Global Rank 1) |
| Purpose/reason | To evaluate and compare safety perceptions across global cities |
| Feature details | Rankings based on crowd-sourced perceptions of crime and safety |
| Validity or status | Active for the year 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Useful for urban planning, governance, public policy, and exam preparation |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs January 22
4. What is the main purpose of the ₹5,000 crore equity infusion approved by the Union Cabinet for SIDBI?
A) To launch a digital MSME portal
B) To recapitalize public sector banks
C) To support SIDBI’s capital base and boost MSME lending
D) To provide grants to state MSME departments
E) To merge SIDBI with NABARD
Answer: C) To support SIDBI’s capital base and boost MSME lending
Event and Location:
- Event: Cabinet approval of ₹5,000 crore equity support to SIDBI
- Location: India (national coverage)
- Date: 21 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Union Cabinet approved ₹5,000 crore phased equity infusion into SIDBI through the Department of Financial Services from FY26 to FY28.
- Objectives: To strengthen SIDBI’s capital adequacy, enhance credit outreach to MSMEs, support employment generation, and sustain financial stability as lending activities expand.
Important Terms Explained:
- SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India): A principal financial institution set up to promote, finance, and develop Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India.
- MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises): Businesses with limited investment and turnover thresholds that play a critical role in India’s economic development and employment generation.
- Equity Infusion: A financial investment by the government to strengthen the capital base of a financial institution, allowing it to lend more and maintain regulatory capital norms.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | ₹5,000 crore equity support to SIDBI |
| Announcement date | 21 January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Union Cabinet, Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Capital support for MSME credit enhancement via SIDBI |
| Key figures | Narendra Modi, Ministry of Finance, Department of Financial Services |
| Purpose/reason | To boost credit access for MSMEs and maintain capital adequacy in SIDBI |
| Feature details | ₹3,000 crore in FY26; ₹1,000 crore each in FY27 and FY28 |
| Validity or status | Approved; phased implementation FY26 to FY28 |
| Strategic/significant value | Expected to benefit 1.02 crore MSMEs and generate 1.12 crore jobs by FY28 |
Appointments – Daily Current Affairs January 22
5. Who has been appointed as the new CEO of Eternal Group following Deepinder Goyal’s decision to step down?
A) Kalyan Krishnamurthy
B) Albinder Dhindsa
C) Rajesh Magow
D) Gaurav Munjal
E) Nandan Nilekani
Answer: B) Albinder Dhindsa
Event and Location:
- Event: Albinder Dhindsa appointed as Group CEO of Eternal Group
- Location: India
- Date: 22 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Deepinder Goyal has stepped down as CEO of Eternal Group and will continue as Vice Chairman, subject to shareholder approval. Albinder Dhindsa has been appointed as the new Group CEO.
- Objectives: The leadership transition aims to align Goyal’s interest in experimental ventures with the company’s need for stable operational leadership, while maintaining strategic continuity through board involvement.
Important Terms Explained:
- CEO (Chief Executive Officer): The highest-ranking executive responsible for managing a company’s overall operations and resources.
- Vice Chairman: A senior board-level position that contributes to strategic decision-making while not involved in daily management.
- Shareholder Approval: A formal voting process required in public companies for confirming major leadership or structural changes.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | CEO transition at Eternal Group |
| Announcement date | 22 January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Eternal Group Board of Directors |
| Policy/series name | Leadership Succession |
| Key figures | Deepinder Goyal (Outgoing CEO), Albinder Dhindsa (Incoming CEO) |
| Purpose/reason | Realignment of leadership based on evolving entrepreneurial focus |
| Feature details | Goyal to focus on high-risk ideas outside public company governance |
| Validity or status | Pending shareholder approval |
| Strategic/significant value | Ensures balance between innovation, operational continuity, and governance standards |
6. Who has been reappointed as the Whole-Time Director of HDFC Bank for a three-year term beginning in April 2026?
A) Sashidhar Jagdishan
B) Kaizad Bharucha
C) Arundhati Bhattacharya
D) Keki Mistry
E) Aditya Puri
Answer: B) Kaizad Bharucha
Event and Location:
- Event: RBI approves reappointment of Kaizad Bharucha as Whole-Time Director of HDFC Bank
- Location: India
- Date: 20 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has formally approved the reappointment of Kaizad Bharucha as Whole-Time Director (Deputy Managing Director) of HDFC Bank for a period of three years, effective from 19 April 2026.
- Objectives: To ensure leadership continuity, strengthen strategic oversight, and maintain regulatory confidence in India’s largest private sector bank during a transformative period in banking operations and digital growth.
Important Terms Explained:
- Whole-Time Director: A full-time executive responsible for day-to-day functioning and strategic leadership of a company or bank, often involved in operations, compliance, and growth initiatives.
- Deputy Managing Director (DMD): A senior executive role just below the MD & CEO, responsible for key verticals such as risk management, corporate banking, and regulatory liaison.
- RBI Approval for Bank Appointments: A regulatory requirement for senior bank roles in India to ensure the individual meets criteria related to experience, integrity, governance, and fit and proper norms.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | RBI approval for reappointment of Kaizad Bharucha |
| Announcement date | 20 January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Reserve Bank of India |
| Policy/series name | Senior Management Appointment in Private Banks |
| Key figures | Kaizad Bharucha (DMD), Sashidhar Jagdishan (MD & CEO) |
| Purpose/reason | Ensure stability and continuity in top leadership |
| Feature details | 3-year tenure starting 19 April 2026; oversight of risk, compliance, ops |
| Validity or status | Approved and confirmed by RBI |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances governance standards and operational strength at HDFC Bank |
7. Who has been appointed as the new Country Head – India for Guardian India Operations Pvt. Ltd.?
A) Michael Prestileo
B) Ritesh Kumar
C) Karunakaran Azhisur
D) Amitabh Chaudhry
E) Deepak Mohanty
Answer: C) Karunakaran Azhisur
Event and Location:
- Event: Appointment of Karunakaran Azhisur as Country Head – India at Guardian India
- Location: India (Corporate Office – Guardian India Operations Pvt. Ltd.)
- Date: 21 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Karunakaran Azhisur has been appointed as the Country Head – India of Guardian India Operations Pvt. Ltd., while continuing as the Chief Information Officer (CIO).
- Objectives: To strengthen leadership at Guardian’s global capability centre in India, support technology-led growth, foster innovation, and align India operations with the company’s global transformation strategy.
Important Terms Explained:
- Country Head – India: The senior-most executive leading a company’s operations in India, responsible for business strategy, growth, people, and market alignment within the region.
- Chief Information Officer (CIO): An executive responsible for managing and implementing information technology and digital systems within an organization to drive efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage.
- Global Capability Centre (GCC): Offshore hubs that provide specialized services like IT, analytics, finance, and R&D to global headquarters—Guardian India being one for Guardian Life Insurance Company of America.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Appointment of Country Head – India at Guardian India |
| Announcement date | 21 January 2026 |
| Location | India (Guardian’s global capability centre) |
| Issuing authority | Guardian India Operations Private Limited |
| Policy/series name | Leadership Strengthening & Digital Transformation Initiative |
| Key figures | Karunakaran Azhisur (Appointee), Michael Prestileo (CSO & India Chair) |
| Purpose/reason | To lead Guardian India operations while driving innovation and transformation |
| Feature details | Dual responsibility: Country Head & Chief Information Officer (CIO) |
| Validity or status | Active from January 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances tech-driven growth, innovation, and global collaboration from India |
Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs January 22
8. What is the primary technology being adopted under India’s Space-Based Surveillance Phase-3 programme for advanced satellite imaging?
A) Infrared Scanning System
B) Electro-Optical Imaging
C) Synthetic Aperture Radar
D) Thermal Balloon Surveillance
E) GPS Navigation Systems
Answer: C) Synthetic Aperture Radar
Event and Location:
- Event: India to launch 50+ spy satellites under SBS Phase-3
- Location: India (with global coverage via space assets)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Indian government has approved the launch of over 50 advanced surveillance satellites under Phase-3 of the Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) programme. The decision follows intelligence gaps observed during Operation Sindoor.
- Objectives: To strengthen border monitoring, ensure night-time and all-weather imaging, enhance battlefield awareness, reduce dependence on foreign satellite imagery, and improve real-time military intelligence and national security readiness.
Important Terms Explained:
- Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR): A form of radar used to create high-resolution images of landscapes or objects. SAR satellites can capture images at night and through clouds, making them ideal for continuous surveillance regardless of weather conditions.
- Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) Phase-3: The latest phase in India’s space-based defense intelligence initiative involving over 50 new satellites. It was cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security in October 2025.
- Operation Sindoor: A recent military standoff with Pakistan that exposed critical surveillance limitations, triggering major upgrades in satellite intelligence capabilities.
- Bodyguard Satellites: Satellites specifically developed to detect and counter threats to Indian space assets, ensuring space security in an increasingly militarised orbital environment.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Launch of 50+ spy satellites post-Operation Sindoor |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Government of India / Cabinet Committee on Security |
| Policy/series name | Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) Phase-3 |
| Key figures | ISRO, Indian Defence Forces, private satellite firms |
| Purpose/reason | To improve military surveillance and fill gaps in night and all-weather intelligence |
| Feature details | Use of SAR satellites, satellite-to-satellite data transfer, overseas ground stations |
| Validity or status | Approved and under implementation |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances national security, space resilience, and real-time battlefield awareness |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 22
9. What is the primary objective of the newly formed Board of Peace chaired by Donald Trump?
A) To negotiate oil trade agreements in the Middle East
B) To oversee the Gaza ceasefire and post-war reconstruction
C) To replace the United Nations completely
D) To expand NATO’s peacekeeping operations
E) To launch a global economic recovery plan
Answer: B) To oversee the Gaza ceasefire and post-war reconstruction
Event and Location:
- Event: Israel joins Trump’s Board of Peace to manage Gaza ceasefire efforts
- Location: Gaza (West Asia / International coverage)
- Date: 21 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Israel has formally agreed to join the Board of Peace, an international body proposed and chaired by Donald Trump, to oversee the Gaza ceasefire agreement, reconstruction, and future governance.
- Objectives: The board aims to ensure a coordinated international response to post-war challenges in Gaza, deploy peacekeeping forces, supervise Hamas disarmament, and manage civilian reconstruction via Palestinian technocrats. It also reflects ambitions to become a broader conflict-resolution platform.
Important Terms Explained:
- Board of Peace: A proposed US-led international coalition formed to monitor the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire, reconstruction, and governance, initiated by Donald Trump.
- Gaza Executive Committee: A sub-body under the Board of Peace tasked with disarmament of Hamas, deployment of international forces, and supervision of civil administration in Gaza.
- Ceasefire Framework: A structured agreement aimed at halting hostilities in Gaza, involving international security deployment, infrastructure rebuilding, and political oversight.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Israel joins Trump’s Board of Peace |
| Announcement date | 21 January 2026 |
| Location | Gaza / International |
| Issuing authority | Government of Israel and Office of Donald Trump |
| Policy/series name | Board of Peace Initiative |
| Key figures | Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, Bezalel Smotrich |
| Purpose/reason | Oversee ceasefire, disarmament, and reconstruction efforts in Gaza |
| Feature details | Gaza executive committee, international peacekeeping, Hamas disarmament |
| Validity or status | Formation stage; early membership and invitations underway |
| Strategic/significant value | Potential alternative to UN-led peacekeeping; reflects shift in multilateral diplomacy |
10. Which of the following sectors was a key focus during the fifth round of India–Namibia Foreign Office Consultations in January 2026?
A) Tourism and Sports
B) Defense and Critical Minerals
C) Maritime Trade and Space Exploration
D) Aviation and Climate Change
E) Urban Housing and Textiles
Answer: B) Defense and Critical Minerals
Event and Location:
- Event: Fifth round of India–Namibia Foreign Office Consultations (FOC)
- Location: India
- Date: 19–20 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: India and Namibia held the fifth round of Foreign Office Consultations to review bilateral relations and explore new areas of cooperation.
- Objectives: To deepen strategic collaboration in defense, critical minerals, digital public infrastructure (DPI), health, agriculture, and reaffirm commitment to South-South Cooperation and inclusive development.
Important Terms Explained:
- Foreign Office Consultations (FOC): Periodic diplomatic meetings between two countries to assess bilateral relations and identify strategic collaboration opportunities.
- Critical Minerals: Naturally occurring minerals vital for modern technologies including clean energy, electronics, and defense; Namibia is rich in these resources.
- Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Foundational digital platforms for identity, payments, and data sharing; India is globally recognised for building scalable DPI systems like Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker.
- South-South Cooperation: A framework for collaboration among countries of the Global South (developing nations), promoting mutual growth and development through shared resources, technology, and expertise.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | 5th India–Namibia Foreign Office Consultations |
| Announcement date | 19–20 January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of External Affairs (India) and Ministry of International Relations (Namibia) |
| Policy/series name | Bilateral Strategic Dialogue |
| Key figures | Senior officials from India and Namibia |
| Purpose/reason | Strengthen bilateral ties and expand cooperation in strategic sectors |
| Feature details | Defense ties, critical mineral access, digital infrastructure, health, agri |
| Validity or status | Ongoing strategic partnership |
| Strategic/significant value | Supports India’s resource security, digital diplomacy, and South-South Cooperation |
11. What is the main feature of Bharat Future City as planned by the Telangana government?
A) World’s tallest building
B) Net-zero greenfield smart city
C) Largest IT park in Asia
D) World’s first underwater metro
E) Climate-controlled agriculture zone
Answer: B) Net-zero greenfield smart city
Event and Location:
- Event: UAE and Telangana agree to collaborate on Bharat Future City development
- Location: Telangana, discussions held at World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026, Davos
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Telangana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) agreed to explore partnership opportunities for the development of Bharat Future City, India’s first net-zero greenfield smart city.
- Objectives: Strengthen urban sustainability, attract global investment, drive infrastructure-led growth, and align with Telangana Rising 2047 vision to create a $3 trillion economy by 2047.
Important Terms Explained:
- Bharat Future City: A proposed smart city in Telangana, designed to be India’s first net-zero greenfield city—focusing on sustainability, smart infrastructure, and global innovation.
- Net-Zero City: A city that offsets or eliminates its carbon emissions through energy-efficient design, green energy, and sustainable urban systems.
- Telangana Rising 2047: A long-term state development plan aiming to transform Telangana into a $3 trillion economy by 2047 through inclusive growth, innovation, and infrastructure development.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | UAE-Telangana partnership on Bharat Future City |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Davos (World Economic Forum 2026); Project site: Telangana |
| Issuing authority | Telangana Govt. & UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism |
| Policy/series name | Bharat Future City under Telangana Rising 2047 |
| Key figures | A Revanth Reddy (CM, Telangana), Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri (UAE Minister) |
| Purpose/reason | Develop India’s first net-zero smart city through global collaboration |
| Feature details | Net-zero emissions, innovation hubs, global investment, smart infrastructure |
| Validity or status | Exploratory partnership (discussions initiated at WEF 2026) |
| Strategic/significant value | Urban sustainability, economic growth, global partnerships |
Schemes – Daily Current Affairs January 22
12. What is the main objective behind extending the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) till 2030–31?
A) To provide housing to low-income families
B) To ensure pension coverage for unorganised sector workers
C) To offer free insurance to senior citizens
D) To create a job portal for informal workers
E) To provide financial aid for education abroad
Answer: B) To ensure pension coverage for unorganised sector workers
Event and Location:
- Event: Extension of Atal Pension Yojana till FY 2030–31
- Location: India (National coverage)
- Date: 22 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) with government support for promotion, capacity building, and gap funding.
- Objectives: To strengthen old-age income security for unorganised workers, promote financial inclusion, and support India’s long-term vision of a pensioned society under Viksit Bharat @2047.
Important Terms Explained:
- Atal Pension Yojana (APY): A government-backed pension scheme launched in 2015 targeting unorganised sector workers by offering a guaranteed monthly pension between ₹1,000–₹5,000 after age 60.
- Gap Funding: Financial support from the government to cover shortfalls in funding to ensure scheme sustainability and viability.
- Financial Inclusion: The process of ensuring access to useful and affordable financial products and services to all individuals, especially vulnerable groups, in a fair and transparent manner.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Extension of Atal Pension Yojana till FY 2030–31 |
| Announcement date | 22 January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Union Cabinet, Government of India |
| Policy/series name | Atal Pension Yojana (APY) |
| Key figures | Narendra Modi (PM), Deepak Mohanty (PFRDA Chairman) |
| Purpose/reason | To ensure retirement income for unorganised workers |
| Feature details | Guaranteed pension ₹1,000–₹5,000, auto-debit, tax benefits, portability |
| Validity or status | Extended till FY 2030–31 |
| Strategic/significant value | Supports Viksit Bharat @2047 vision and strengthens social security system |
13. What key benefit does the integration of SAMPANN with the UMANG platform offer to pensioners?
A) Tax filing for senior citizens
B) Live video consultation with pension officials
C) Access to PPO number and Life Certificate validity
D) Online booking of pension-related medical tests
E) Loan approval for pensioners
Answer: C) Access to PPO number and Life Certificate validity
Event and Location:
- Event: Integration of SAMPANN pension portal with the UMANG platform
- Location: India (Nationwide coverage)
- Date: 22 January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The SAMPANN pension portal has been digitally integrated with UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance), offering pensioners access to their PPO number and Life Certificate validity status online.
- Objectives: To promote pensioner-centric governance, enhance transparency, reduce the need for physical visits, and deliver real-time access to pension-related services to approximately 4 lakh Department of Telecommunications (DoT) pensioners.
Important Terms Explained:
- SAMPANN (System for Accounting and Management of Pension): A digital pension platform launched in December 2018 by the Controller General of Communication Accounts, managing the full pension lifecycle, from sanction to grievance redressal.
- UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance): A Digital India initiative offering a single unified mobile and web platform to access Central, State, and Local government services, including integration with DigiLocker and Aadhaar.
- PPO Number (Pension Payment Order): A unique number assigned to a pensioner that enables tracking and management of pension payments and related services.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Integration of SAMPANN with UMANG |
| Announcement date | 22 January 2026 |
| Location | India |
| Issuing authority | Office of Controller General of Communication Accounts (CGCA) |
| Policy/series name | Digital India – e-Governance Pension Services |
| Key figures | Ashish Joshi (Principal Controller of Communication Accounts) |
| Purpose/reason | To simplify pension access and promote real-time digital governance |
| Feature details | Access PPO number and check Life Certificate validity via UMANG |
| Validity or status | Active and operational |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances pension transparency and improves service access for elderly citizens |
14. Under the Atal Vichal Agragami Assam scheme, how much monthly financial assistance will Divyang research scholars receive?
A) ₹15,000
B) ₹20,000
C) ₹25,000
D) ₹30,000
E) ₹40,000
Answer: E) ₹40,000
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of monthly support scheme for research scholars under Atal Vichal Agragami Assam
- Location: Assam
- Date: Launching on 11 February 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: The Assam government has announced a monthly assistance scheme to support research scholars, with enhanced benefits for Divyang (differently-abled) students under the Atal Vichal Agragami Assam programme.
- Objectives: To promote research and innovation, reduce financial stress on scholars, ensure inclusive access to higher education, and position Assam as a hub of academic excellence and knowledge-driven development.
Important Terms Explained:
- Atal Vichal Agragami Assam: A flagship scheme launched by the Government of Assam to provide monthly financial assistance to research scholars enrolled in universities and higher education institutions across the state.
- Divyang Scholars: A respectful term used in India for persons with disabilities. Under this scheme, they receive higher monthly assistance to support equal participation in research activities.
- Inclusive Education: A principle aimed at ensuring equal access to education opportunities for all, regardless of socio-economic or physical conditions.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Launch of Atal Vichal Agragami Assam Scheme |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Launch date | 11 February 2026 |
| Location | Assam |
| Issuing authority | Government of Assam |
| Policy/series name | Atal Vichal Agragami Assam Scheme |
| Key figures | Himanta Biswa Sarma (Chief Minister) |
| Purpose/reason | To promote inclusive research and reduce financial burden on scholars |
| Feature details | ₹25,000/month for general scholars; ₹40,000/month for Divyang scholars |
| Validity or status | Active from February 2026 |
| Strategic/significant value | Encourages in-depth research, inclusion, and builds Assam’s academic ecosystem |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 22
15. What is the main focus of the MoU signed between Odisha and Meghalaya in January 2026?
A) Promoting organic farming
B) Tourism development
C) Early Childhood Care, Education and Development
D) Disaster response coordination
E) Skill development for youth
Answer: C) Early Childhood Care, Education and Development
Event and Location:
- Event: Signing of MoU between Odisha and Meghalaya to strengthen ECCED
- Location: India (Inter-state: Odisha and Meghalaya)
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Odisha and Meghalaya have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly improve Early Childhood Care, Education and Development (ECCED) through knowledge sharing and inter-state collaboration.
- Objectives: To improve outcomes in nutrition, health, early learning, and caregiving for children aged 0–8 years by promoting community engagement, capacity building, and the exchange of best practices between the two states.
Important Terms Explained:
- ECCED (Early Childhood Care, Education and Development): A holistic approach addressing the health, nutrition, learning, and care needs of children from birth to 8 years, crucial for long-term human capital development.
- MoU (Memorandum of Understanding): A formal agreement between two or more parties outlining mutual goals and collaboration areas without creating legally binding obligations.
- Cooperative Federalism: A governance model where states and the central government work collaboratively towards shared national goals, especially through inter-state cooperation.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Odisha–Meghalaya MoU on ECCED |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | India (Odisha and Meghalaya) |
| Issuing authority | State Governments of Odisha and Meghalaya |
| Policy/series name | Early Childhood Development Collaboration |
| Key figures | Officials from Women & Child Development and Health Departments |
| Purpose/reason | Improve child development outcomes through mutual learning and joint efforts |
| Feature details | Joint training, knowledge sharing, exposure visits, best practice exchange |
| Validity or status | Active inter-state collaboration |
| Strategic/significant value | Promotes inclusive growth, human capital development, and cooperative federalism |
16. What is ECOFIX, recently highlighted in the push for sustainable road construction in hilly regions?
A) A cement brand used in smart cities
B) A digital traffic monitoring system
C) A pothole repair mix made using processed steel slag
D) A mobile app for road safety
E) A climate resilience policy
Answer: C) A pothole repair mix made using processed steel slag
Event and Location:
- Event: Proposal to expand use of steel slag technology for sustainable road construction
- Location: Hilly and Himalayan regions across India
- Date: January 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Union MoS Jitendra Singh has called for the wider adoption of steel slag-based road technology to improve road resilience in challenging terrains.
- Objectives: To promote sustainable infrastructure, improve road durability in hilly regions, enhance awareness among engineers, reduce waste, and support a circular economy through industrial by-product reuse.
Important Terms Explained:
- Steel Slag: A by-product of steel manufacturing that, when processed, can be reused in road construction to improve strength and water resistance, especially in high-altitude, landslide-prone areas.
- ECOFIX: A ready-to-use pothole repair mix developed using steel slag by CSIR–Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), with support from the Technology Development Board (TDB). It works even in wet conditions.
- Circular Economy: An economic model that emphasises reuse, recycling, and waste minimisation to reduce dependency on finite natural resources.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Promotion of steel slag road technology in hilly regions |
| Announcement date | January 2026 |
| Location | Hilly and Himalayan states (e.g. J&K, Northeast) |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Science and Technology |
| Policy/series name | Steel Slag–Based Road Construction & ECOFIX Initiative |
| Key figures | Jitendra Singh (MoS), CSIR-CRRI, TDB |
| Purpose/reason | Improve road resilience, support sustainability, promote circular economy |
| Feature details | Steel slag reuse, ECOFIX pothole mix, PPP model, workshops for engineers |
| Validity or status | Active; implementation and training ongoing |
| Strategic/significant value | Enhances infrastructure durability, reduces natural resource use, and boosts innovation |
17. Where has Andhra Pradesh proposed the development of a new spaceport to support private space launches?
A) Araku Valley
B) Srikalahasti
C) Hope Island
D) Sriharikota
E) Visakhapatnam
Answer: C) Hope Island
Event and Location:
- Event: Andhra Pradesh announces new spaceport for private launches
- Location: Hope Island, off the coast of Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh
- Date: January 17, 2026
Mandates and Objectives:
- Mandates: Establish a new spaceport at Hope Island as part of the Space City initiative to support private launch providers.
- Objectives: Strengthen India’s commercial space ecosystem, reduce dependence on existing launch sites, and encourage private sector participation in space missions.
Important Terms Explained:
- Spaceport: A site for launching (or receiving) spacecraft, including facilities for rocket assembly, fueling, integration, and launch control.
- Hope Island: A small island in the Bay of Bengal near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. Formed by Godavari river deposits, it has strategic geographical positioning for satellite launches.
- Space City Initiative: A state-level program in Andhra Pradesh aimed at fostering space-tech innovation, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships in aerospace and satellite services.
Tabular Summary:
| Parameter | Details |
| Event name | Announcement of new spaceport at Hope Island |
| Announcement date | January 17, 2026 |
| Location | Hope Island, off Kakinada coast, Andhra Pradesh |
| Issuing authority | Government of Andhra Pradesh, led by CM N. Chandrababu Naidu |
| Policy/series name | Space City initiative |
| Key figures | N. Chandrababu Naidu (CM, Andhra Pradesh) |
| Purpose/reason | Support private launch missions and boost India’s commercial space ecosystem |
| Feature details | Focus on small & medium-lift private rocket launches, complementary to ISRO sites |
| Validity or status | Proposed; technical plans yet to be announced |
| Strategic/significant value | Strengthens space-sector infrastructure and promotes private participation |
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