Source: TOI Why in News? The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has constituted a high-level expert committee to overhaul and modernise the investment framework of the National Pension System (NPS) in line with global best practices. About the Committee Mandate of SAARG Core Objectives Composition of the Panel The committee includes experts from:
Buyforex Secures In-Principle PSP Approval at GIFT IFSC
Source: TH Why in News? In January 2026, Buyforex, a wholly owned entity of EbixCash World Money (subsidiary of Eraaya Lifespaces Ltd.), received in-principle approval for Payment Service Provider (PSP) authorisation from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) at GIFT IFSC. Key Significance What is a Payment Service Provider (PSP)? A Payment Service Provider (PSP) is an entity authorised by a financial regulator to offer, facilitate, and manage payment services, including digital payments, e-money, merchant payments, and cross-border fund transfers, in a regulated and secure manner. PSP Authorisation in India Regulatory Authorities Permitted Services under PSP Approval Buyforex is authorised to provide four regulated payment services:
President inaugurates Granth Kutir at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Source: TH Why in News? In January 2026, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated âGranth Kutirâ, a cultural and literary space at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, aimed at preserving and showcasing Indiaâs rich intellectual and literary heritage. About Granth Kutir Key Objectives Classical Languages Represented
Indian ArmyâIISc MoU on Indigenous AI Defence System
Source: PIB Why in News? On 23 January 2026, the Indian Army signed an MoU with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru to develop an indigenous AI-based defence system. Purpose of the AI System Key Features of the Collaboration
Indian Railwaysâ First Humanoid Robot â âASC ARJUNâ
Source: IE Why in News? Indian Railways deployed its first humanoid robot âASC ARJUNâ at Visakhapatnam Railway Station, Andhra Pradesh, in January 2026. About âASC ARJUNâ Key Capabilities 1. Security & Surveillance 2. Crowd Management 3. Platform Patrolling
Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC 3.0)
Source: TOI Why in News? The 3rd meeting of the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC 3.0) was held in Kochi, Kerala, on 23 January 2026, chaired by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. What is the IWDC? The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) is a high-level institutional mechanism set up by the Government of India to review, coordinate, and accelerate development and utilisation of inland waterways for cargo and passenger transport, and explore ecosystem linkages to economic growth. IWDC 3.0 Objectives of IWDC 3.0
Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole)
Source: TH Why in News? A rare Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole) has been camera-trapped for the first time in the Ratapani Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.The sighting indicates improving habitat quality and prey availability in the reserve. About Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole) Habitat & Distribution Conservation Status
PLI Scheme for White Goods
Source: PIB Why in News? The Government of India has selected five companies in the fourth round of the PLI Scheme for White Goods, with a committed investment of âč863 crore, to boost domestic manufacturing of Air Conditioners (ACs) and LED lights. What is the PLI Scheme for White Goods? Key Details Nodal & Monitoring Authorities Target Segments under the Scheme 1. Air Conditioners 2. LED Lights
56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF)
Venue: Davos-Klosters, SwitzerlandDates: 19â23 January 2026Theme: âA Spirit of Dialogueâ Why in News? The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) brought together global political, business and technology leaders to discuss economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and the future of technology-led growth. Key Reports Launched 1. WEF Chief Economistsâ Outlook â January 2026 2. AI Adoption Report India Highlight: AI Investment Ranking World Economic Forum (WEF) The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international non-governmental and non-profit organisation that brings together leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society to address global economic, social, political, and technological challenges through dialogue and cooperation. Establishment & Headquarters
USA Officially Withdraws from the World Health Organization (WHO)
Source: TH Context: The United States of America (USA) formally withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) on 22 January 2026, ending its 78-year membership. The move followed sustained criticism of the WHOâs functioning, particularly its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Background What is WHO? The World Health Organization (WHO) is the UNâs apex body responsible for international public health, disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency health response. India & WHO
