Daily Current Affairs Quiz29 & 30 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. 2nd India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting 2026 Source: News on Air Why in News? Ministers and delegates of the 22-member Arab League (League of Arab States – LAS) are meeting in New Delhi for the 2nd India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, marking a major diplomatic outreach by India amid heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia and the global order. Background: Arab League (LAS) Objectives of India–LAS MoU (2002) Institutional Frameworks of Engagement Key Pillars of India–Arab League Engagement National Affairs 1. Centre Notifies New Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 Source: The Indian Express Why in News? The Central Government has notified the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, replacing the 2016 rules and placing greater responsibility on bulk waste generators to improve waste segregation, processing, and accountability. Key Features of SWM Rules, 2026 Mandatory Source Segregation Waste must be segregated into four streams: Objective: Improve recycling efficiency and reduce landfill burden. Higher Responsibility for Bulk Waste Generators Shifts burden away from urban local bodies towards waste producers. Polluter Pays Principle Digital Monitoring & Transparency Circular Economy Orientation 2. UGC Anti-Discrimination (Equity) Regulations, 2026 Source: IE Why in News? The University Grants Commission (UGC) notified the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026, triggering nationwide debate and protests over whether the rules promote inclusion or risk bias and administrative overreach. What Are the UGC Equity Regulations, 2026? Objectives Key Provisions Institutional Mechanisms Complaint Redressal Enforcement Powers Marks a shift from moral persuasion to regulatory enforcement. Why the Controversy? Concerns Raised Supportive Arguments Judicial Intervention 3. World Bank Report: A Breath of Change (2025) Source: The Telegraph Why in News? The World Bank report A Breath of Change highlights that nearly one billion people in the Indo-Gangetic Plains and Himalayan Foothills (IGP-HF) are exposed to the most polluted air globally, calling for urgent transboundary cooperation. About A Breath of Change Key Data & Trends Health & Economic Impact Pollution Severity Why Pollution is Transboundary in IGP-HF Geography & Topography Wind Patterns Secondary Particle Formation Agricultural Residue Burning Industrial Clusters Existing Regional & National Initiatives Key Challenges Identified Institutional Financial Enforcement Data Gaps Economic Barriers World Bank’s Recommended Solutions: The 4Is Framework Information Incentives Institutions Infrastructure Market Instruments 4. Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0 Source: News on Air Why in News? NITI Aayog CEO Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam launched Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0, a 3-month mission-mode campaign to achieve 100% saturation of critical development indicators in India’s most underserved regions. About Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) KPIs for Aspirational Blocks (6) KPIs for Aspirational Districts (5) 5. PANCHAM Digital Chatbot Why in News? The Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched PANCHAM (Panchayat Assistance and Messaging Chatbot) on the eve of India’s 77th Republic Day, creating a first-of-its-kind two-way digital bridge between the Central Government and over 30 lakh elected Panchayat representatives. What is PANCHAM? Ministry & Collaboration Aim & Objectives 6. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Source: The Times of India Why in News? The Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha has been officially declared Maoist-free, enabling systematic wildlife monitoring. Recent camera trap surveys indicate a thriving leopard population (over 70 individuals), positioning Sunabeda as a potential Leopard Haven in Central India. About Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Location & Extent 7. Power Gap Index Source: Business Standard Why in News? For the first time, the Economic Survey 2025–26 has cited the Power Gap Index, highlighting a strategic paradox: although India has entered the Major Power category globally, it still records a negative Power Gap score (-4.0), indicating unrealised strategic potential. What is the Power Gap Index? Interpretation It challenges the assumption that economic size or military strength automatically equals influence. Developed By Methodology & Criteria How is the Power Gap Calculated? Eight Thematic Measures (131 Indicators) A. Resource-Based Measures (What a country HAS) B. Influence-Based Measures (What a country DOES) India’s Ranking: 2025–26 Scorecard Indicator India’s Status Rank Asia Power Index Rank Top 3 3rd Comprehensive Power Score 40.0 / 100 3rd (after US & China) Category Major Power First time Power Gap Score –4.0 Lowest in Asia (excluding Russia & N. Korea) 8. Digital Food Currency (CBDC for Food Subsidy) Source: The Times of India Why in News? The Government of India is set to launch a pilot programme for a Digital Food Currency, a programmable form of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), to modernise the Public Distribution System (PDS) and streamline the world’s largest food security programme. What is Digital Food Currency? Implementing Institutions Aim & Objectives 9. Paathara (Khoni) Practice Source: The Hindu Why in News? The Paathara (or Khoni) traditional grain storage practice in Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, is facing imminent extinction, raising concerns over the loss of indigenous agricultural knowledge systems. What is the Paathara (Khoni) Practice? 10. Living Root Bridges Submitted to UNESCO World Heritage List Source: News on Air Why in News? India has officially submitted the nomination dossier for Meghalaya’s Living Root Bridges to UNESCO for evaluation under the 2026–27 World Heritage cycle.The nomination is titled “Jingkieng Jri / Lyu Chrai Cultural Landscape.” What are the Living Root Bridges? Location Banking/Finance 1. Economic Survey 2025–26 Source: The Hindu Why in News? The Economic Survey 2025–26, tabled in Parliament, projects a strong medium-term growth outlook for India while warning of a grim and fragile global economic scenario that could pose risks to the Indian economy. Key Highlights of Economic Survey 2025–26 India’s Growth Outlook Drivers of Higher Medium-Term Growth Reform Momentum Cited These factors collectively raise India’s potential growth to ~7% in the medium term. Global Economic Outlook: Key Risks 2. Indian Banks to Face No Cap on Branch Openings in EU Source: BS Why in News? Under the proposed India–European Union (EU) trade agreement, Indian banks will face no cap on branch openings in the EU, while EU banks will be allowed to open up to 15 branches in India over four years once the pact comes into force. Key Provisions Related to Banking & Services Branch Opening Norms Existing

Daily Current Affairs Quiz27 & 28 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. First SCO Council of National Coordinators Meeting 2026 Held in Beijing Why in News? The first meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of National Coordinators (CNC) for 2026 was held in Beijing, under the chairmanship of the Kyrgyz Republic, to finalize the agenda for upcoming high-level SCO summits later this year. Council of National Coordinators (CNC) What is it? Core Functions About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Key Facts Member States (10) Permanent Bodies National Affairs 1. Enhancing Circular Economy of ELVs in India: NITI Aayog Report Source: TH Context: A NITI Aayog report has warned that End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) in India could double to nearly 50 million by 2030, posing serious risks related to road safety, pollution, and waste management, while also highlighting the untapped resource potential of vehicle scrapping. What are End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs)? Key Trends & Data Regulatory Framework for ELVs Key Challenges Identified 1. Informal vs Formal Price Gap 2. Regional Infrastructure Imbalance 3. De-registration Bottlenecks 4. Poor Financial Viability of RVSFs 5. Compromised Fitness Testing NITI Aayog Recommendations 1. Infrastructure Expansion 2. Formalisation of Informal Sector 3. Strengthening EPR 4. Digital Reforms 5. Financial Innovation 2. Tap Water Coverage in Urban India Source: IE Context: Urban tap water coverage in India has increased significantly from 49% in 2011 to about 77% in 2025–26, largely due to the implementation of AMRUT and AMRUT 2.0 under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). What is Tap Water Coverage? AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) AMRUT 1.0 (2015–) AMRUT 2.0 (2021–) Jal Hi Amrit Initiative 3. The 16th India–European Union (EU) Summit Source: TOI Context: The 16th India–European Union (EU) Summit begins today, with both sides set to upgrade their strategic partnership by signing a Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) and advancing talks on trade, climate, and global security. Key Participants Key Outcomes Expected 1. Security & Defence Cooperation 2. Trade & Economy 3. Strategic Agenda 4. MoPR Facilitates Panchayat Leaders & Launches Key Initiatives Source: PIB Why in News? The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) honoured elected Panchayat representatives and launched multiple governance-related initiatives during a special event held ahead of Republic Day 2026. Initiatives & Publications Launched About PANCHAM PESA State Rankings 2024–25 About PESA Top Performing States 5. Rajasthan Launches RAJ-UNNATI Digital Governance Platform Source: IE Why in News? Rajasthan launched RAJ-UNNATI, becoming the first Indian state to replicate the PRAGATI model at the state level. About RAJ-UNNATI About PRAGATI 6. Wings India 2026 – Asia’s Largest Civil Aviation Event Source: News on Air Context: Wings India 2026, Asia’s largest civil aviation exhibition and conference, will be held from 28–31 January 2026 at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad, highlighting India’s emergence as a global aviation hub. What is Wings India? Organisers & Venue 7. Humanoid Robot ‘ASC ARJUN’ Deployed by Indian Railways Source: IE Context: Indian Railways has deployed an AI-powered humanoid robot named ‘ASC ARJUN’ at Visakhapatnam Railway Station, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative across the railway network. What is ‘ASC ARJUN’? Developed By Aim Key Functions Function Area Key Features / Description Security & Surveillance Face Recognition System (FRS) for intrusion detection; AI-based crowd monitoring Real-Time Alerts Sends instant alerts to RPF control rooms during suspicious activities and emergencies Emergency Response Fire and smoke detection system for early warning Passenger Assistance Automated announcements in English, Hindi, and Telugu Autonomous Patrolling Semi-autonomous navigation; obstacle avoidance; 24×7 platform patrols Human Interaction Friendly gestures such as Namaste for passengers and salutes for RPF personnel 8. Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary Source: The Hindu Context: The Kerala government has officially renamed Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in Kerala. What is Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary? Location Ecological Significance 9. Buddhist Diamond Triangle Added to UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List Source: The Times of India Why in News? The UNESCO World Heritage Centre has added Odisha’s Buddhist Diamond Triangle—Lalitgiri, Udayagiri, and Ratnagiri—to India’s Tentative List for World Heritage Sites. About Buddhist Diamond Triangle Key Sites Lalitgiri – The Ancient Spiritual Hub Udayagiri – The Sunrise Hill of Monasteries Ratnagiri – Epicentre of Vajrayana Buddhism Banking/Finance 1. RBI Proposes Reopening Licensing Window for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) Source: IE Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed reopening the licensing window for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) after a gap of over 20 years, and has invited stakeholder feedback on the proposal. About Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) Origin & Evolution Reform Phase Key Functions of UCBs 2. Economic Survey of India 2026 Source: PIB Why in News? The Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran will present the Economic Survey of India 2026 on January 29, 2026, ahead of the Union Budget 2026–27 scheduled for February 1, 2026. About the Economic Survey of India Origin & History Who Prepares the Survey? Aim & Objectives Structure of the Economic Survey Part A Part B 3. ESMA–RBI Renew Information-Sharing Pact Source: ET Context: The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have signed a new information-sharing agreement, ending a three-year impasse over the recognition of Indian central counterparties (CCPs) by the European Union. Background Key Developments Indian Clearing Houses Affected Earlier Agriculture 1. New Plant Species Discovered: Hoya nagaensis Source: The Hindu (TH) Why in News? Researchers from Nagaland University have recorded a new plant species, Hoya nagaensis, from a community-managed forest in Nagaland. About Hoya nagaensis Region Found Key Features Conservation Status 2. Smart & Integrated Fishing Harbour Sanctioned at Mayabunder Source: News on Air Why in News? The Union Department of Fisheries has sanctioned the development of a Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbour at Mayabunder, giving a major boost to maritime and fisheries infrastructure in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Smart Fishing Harbour at Mayabunder Key Features Facts To Remember 1. Indian Railways deploys humanoid robot ‘ASC ARJUN’ Indian Railways introduced its first AI-powered humanoid robot at Visakhapatnam station to enhance passenger safety, surveillance, and

Daily Current Affairs Quiz25&26 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. 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 WHO’s functioning, particularly its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Background What is WHO? The World Health Organization (WHO) is the UN’s apex body responsible for international public health, disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency health response. India & WHO 2. 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Venue: Davos-Klosters, SwitzerlandDates: 19–23 January 2026Theme: “A Spirit of Dialogue” 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 Economists’ Outlook – 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 National Affairs 1. 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 ₹863 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 2. 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 3. State of Finance for Nature 2026 Report Context: The State of Finance for Nature (SFN) 2026 report warns that global financial flows continue to be overwhelmingly nature-negative, threatening biodiversity, climate resilience, and long-term economic stability. What is the State of Finance for Nature (SFN) 2026? Core Functions of the SFN Report 1. Tracking Global Capital Flows 2. Assessing Progress under Rio Conventions The report evaluates whether finance is aligned with commitments under: 3. Promoting Nature-based Solutions (NbS) SFN provides a financial roadmap to transition from a nature-eroding economy to a nature-positive economy using Nature-based Solutions (NbS). Nature-based Solutions include: Key Findings of the SFN 2026 Report 1. A Massive Nature Finance Gap 2. Dominance of Nature-Negative Finance 3. Environmentally Harmful Subsidies (EHS) 4. Private Sector’s Negative Footprint 5. Public Sector Dominates Nature-Positive Finance 6. Nature Risk = Financial Risk Read more>> 4. 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 5. Indian Railways’ First Humanoid Robot – ‘ASC ARJUN’ Source: IE Why in News? Indian Railways deployed its first humanoid robot ‘ASC ARJUN’ at Visakhapatnam Railway Station, Andhra Pradesh, in January 2026. About ‘ASC ARJUN’ Key Capabilities 1. Security & Surveillance 2. Crowd Management 3. Platform Patrolling 6. Indian Army–IISc 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 7. President inaugurates Granth Kutir at Rashtrapati Bhavan Source: TH Why in News? In January 2026, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated “Granth Kutir”, a cultural and literary space at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, aimed at preserving and showcasing India’s rich intellectual and literary heritage. About Granth Kutir Key Objectives Classical Languages Represented Banking/Finance 1. 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: 2. PFRDA sets up SAARG to Modernise NPS Investment Framework 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: 3. PFRDA Introduces ‘NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme’ Source: Business Standard Why in News? The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has allowed the launch of the NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme as a Proof of Concept (PoC) under its Regulatory Sandbox Framework, marking a first attempt to integrate health-related benefits with India’s pension system. What is the NPS Swasthya Pension Scheme? Key Objectives Key Features of the Pilot Scheme 1. Regulatory Sandbox & PoC 2. Partial Withdrawals for Medical Needs 3. Premature Exit for Critical Treatment 4. Transfer from Existing NPS Accounts 5. Exit Safeguards 4. RBI Updates Priority Sector Lending (PSL) Rules Source: Economic Times Why in

Daily Current Affairs Quiz23&24 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. United States Set to Formally Withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) Source: TH What is the news? The United States is set to formally withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) after completing the mandatory one-year notice period, despite widespread concerns over the impact on global health governance, pandemic preparedness, and U.S. public health interests. About the World Health Organization (WHO) Establishment & Headquarters Historical Background Core Functions of WHO National Affairs 1. Global Water Bankruptcy Report Source: Down To Earth (DTE) What is the news? The UNU-INWEH has released a flagship report titled “Global Water Bankruptcy: Living Beyond Our Hydrological Means in the Post-Crisis Era”, warning that large parts of the world have entered a permanent state of water insolvency, where water use exceeds renewable and safe limits. What is “Water Bankruptcy”? Key Data & Findings Major Causes Identified 2. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Source: IE Context: Parakram Diwas–2026 being organised in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to mark the 129th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Who was Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose? Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was a revolutionary nationalist leader who championed complete independence (Purna Swaraj) through assertive and military means, offering a decisive ideological alternative to the predominantly non-violent strategy of India’s freedom movement. Early Life Role in the Freedom Movement 1. Radical Congress Leadership 2. Demand for Purna Swaraj 3. Socialist Economic Vision 4. Ideological Challenge within INC 5. Forward Bloc 3. Operation Megaburu Source: The Times of India (TOI) What is the news? Operation Megaburu, a major anti-Maoist counter-insurgency operation in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district, led to the killing of 16 Maoists, including senior CPI (Maoist) leader Anal alias Patiram Manjhi. The operation marks one of the most significant blows to Maoist leadership in the State in recent years. What is Operation Megaburu? Key Details 4. Governor’s Power to Address the State Legislature What is the issue? Several States have witnessed disputes over the Governor’s Address to the State Legislature, raising concerns about constitutional propriety, the limits of gubernatorial discretion, and adherence to the principle of responsible government. What is the Governor’s Address? Constitutional Provisions Involved Nature of the Governor’s Powers 5. Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary Source: The Hindu What is Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary? Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary is a high-altitude protected area and a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) in East Sikkim, forming part of India’s eastern Himalayan frontier with exceptional ecological and strategic significance. Location Neighbouring Regions Biogeography & Ecology 6. Military Quantum Mission Policy Framework Source: PIB What is the news? The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, has released the Military Quantum Mission Policy Framework, marking India’s first structured roadmap to integrate quantum technologies into the Indian Armed Forces. What is the Military Quantum Mission Policy Framework? Objectives 7. India ranks 8th globally in AI investment: WEF White Paper Source: BS What is the news? India has been ranked 8th among 11 major economies in terms of historical accumulated investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) between 2010 and 2024, measured as a percentage of 2024 GDP, according to a WEF white paper released in Davos. Key Rankings (AI Investment as % of 2024 GDP) Rank Country / Region Investment (% of GDP) 1 United States 3.4 – 5.1 2 Singapore 3.1 – 4.6 3 South Korea 2.2 – 3.3 4 China 1.7 – 2.6 5 UAE 1.5 – 2.3 6 Japan 1.5 – 2.2 7 Canada 1.5 – 2.2 8 India 1.2 – 1.8 9 UK 1.4 – 2.0 10 Europe (excl. UK) 1.1 – 1.6 11 Brazil 0.7 – 1.1 Key Findings of the Report Global AI Investment Trends 8. LR-AShM (Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile) Source: The Hindu Context: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will showcase India’s advanced indigenous defence technologies at the 77th Republic Day parade and Bharat Parv 2026. A major highlight will be the display of the Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) along with a dedicated DRDO tableau. About LR-AShM (Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile) 9. Military Quantum Mission Policy Framework Source: PIB Context: The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan released the Military Quantum Mission Policy Framework, providing a structured roadmap for the integration of quantum technologies across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. About Military Quantum Mission Policy Framework Objective Key Focus Areas Banking/Finance 1. Net FDI Negative for Fourth Consecutive Month in November 2025 Source: The Hindu What is the news? India’s net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) remained negative for the fourth consecutive month in November 2025, with outflows exceeding inflows by $446 million, according to RBI data. Net Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) has also been negative so far in FY 2025–26, reflecting rising investor uncertainty. What is Net FDI? Net Foreign Direct Investment (Net FDI) is the balance between foreign direct investment inflows into a country and outflows from that country over a given period. Net FDI = Gross FDI Inflows – (Repatriation+Disinvestment+Outward FDI) FDI Composition Outward FDI Trends Why is this important? 2. Reinsurance Source: The Indian Express What is the news? Global reinsurers, along with Indian insurers, have paid $125 million (≈ ₹1,125 crore) to Air India towards hull and engine loss arising from the Ahmedabad air crash involving an Air India aircraft. What is Reinsurance? Reinsurance is insurance for insurance companies. It is a risk-transfer mechanism in which an insurance company (cedant) transfers a part of its risk to another insurer called the reinsurer, in exchange for a reinsurance premium. Purpose: How Reinsurance Works Policyholder → Insurer (Cedant) → Reinsurer Types of Reinsurance (Important for IRDAI Exam) 1. Facultative Reinsurance 2. Treaty Reinsurance Methods of Reinsurance A. Proportional Reinsurance Types: B. Non-Proportional Reinsurance Key type for this event: Reinsurance & Air India Crash Aspect Relevance Hull & engine loss Covered under aviation insurance $125 million payout Paid mainly by reinsurers Indian insurers Acted as cedants Passenger liability Separate liability insurance Risk spread Across global reinsurance market Important Reinsurance Terms for IRDAI Exam

Daily Current Affairs Quiz22 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. Spain Joins Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) Source: NIE Why in News? About the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) Launch Details Strategic Foundation 2. Arabian Sea Why in News? Unusual boiling or bubbling of seawater has been reported in the Arabian Sea, off the Gujarat coast, triggering concern among fishermen and authorities. About the Arabian Sea Bordering Countries Major Basins National Affairs 1. National Legislative Index (NLI) Source: PIB Why in News? At the 86th All India Presiding Officers’ Conference, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the initiation of a National Legislative Index (NLI) to objectively assess the performance of legislatures in India. What is the National Legislative Index (NLI)? Objectives of NLI 2. Operation Trashi-I Why in News? Operation Trashi-I entered its fourth day in January 2026 as security forces intensified counter-terrorism operations in the forested areas of Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir. What is Operation Trashi-I? 3. Judicial Removal Source: TH Why in News? Constitutional Provisions Involved Statutory Framework Grounds for Removal Procedure for Removal of a Judge 4. First ‘Made in India’ C-295 Aircraft Source: IE Why in News? India’s first fully Made-in-India C-295 military transport aircraft will roll out before September 2026, marking a major milestone in indigenous defence manufacturing. The announcement was made by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. About the C-295 Programme Production & Indigenisation 5. Chief Economists Outlook: World Economic Forum (WEF) Source: BS Why in News? South Asia has emerged as the most optimistic region globally in terms of economic growth outlook, according to the latest Chief Economists Outlook released by the WEF. Key Findings: South Asia Growth Expectations Inflation Outlook Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Comparative Regional Sentiment (Growth Expectations) Region Strong / Very Strong Growth (%) South Asia 66 East Asia & Pacific 45 China 24 United States 11 Europe 3 6. Cabinet Approves Continuation of Atal Pension Yojana (APY) till 2030–31 Source: PIB Context: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) up to 2030–31, along with extended funding for outreach, development, and gap funding. About Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Launch Details Implementing Authority Objectives Key Features 7. Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 Source: The Hindu Why in News? A two-judge Bench of the Supreme Court of India delivered a split verdict (2026) on the constitutional validity of Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, which mandates prior approval before investigating public servants. What is Section 17A? Key Features of Section 17A 8. DIBD–Survey of India MoU for Toponymic Data Digitisation Source: PIB Context: The Digital India BHASHINI Division (DIBD) under MeitY signed an MoU with the Survey of India (SoI) to digitise, transcribe, and standardise geographical place names (toponyms) across India using AI-based language technologies. Participating Institutions Objective SoI–BHASHINI Collaboration Role of Survey of India (SoI) Role of DIBD / BHASHINI About BHASHINI (BHASHa INterface for India) Banking/Finance 1. Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) Source: ET Context: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, approved an equity infusion of ₹5,000 crore into the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) to expand credit availability for MSMEs and strengthen its balance sheet. About SIDBI Establishment & Legal Status Key Functions of SIDBI 1. Refinance Support 2. Direct Lending to MSMEs 3. Collateral-Free & Digital Credit 4. Venture Debt & Startup Financing 5. Developmental & Handholding Role 6. Support to Microfinance Institutions 2. PhonePe receives SEBI approval for IPO Source: ET Context: Fintech major PhonePe has received SEBI’s approval to proceed with its Initial Public Offering (IPO) and is expected to file an Updated Draft Red Herring Prospectus (UDRHP) shortly. The move clears the way for one of India’s most anticipated fintech IPOs in the near future. IPO (Initial Public Offering) IPO (Initial Public Offering) refers to the process by which a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time and gets listed on a stock exchange (in India, mainly BSE and NSE). Objectives of an IPO IPO Process in India Types of IPO About PhonePe 3. Monthly State of the Economy Report: RBI Report Source: BS Why in News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its Monthly State of the Economy Report, highlighted a sharp increase in credit flow to the commercial sector. Key Findings of the RBI Report Credit Growth Drivers of Credit Expansion 1. Rural Demand Revival 2. Gradual Recovery in Urban Demand GDP Outlook (FY26) Role of Non-Bank Financial Sources 4. NITI Aayog Suggests ₹13,000 crore Schemes for MSME Decarbonisation Source: BS Why in News? NITI Aayog has recommended ₹13,000 crore worth of schemes to support decarbonisation of MSMEs, addressing rising energy costs and tightening global environmental norms. Background Key Recommendations by NITI Aayog 1. Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme 2. PM-Suryaghar–like Solar Rooftop Scheme for MSMEs 5. RBI Guidelines on Interest Subvention for Export Credit under NIRYAT PROTSAHAN Source: News on Air Context: In January 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued operational guidelines for extending interest subvention on pre- and post-shipment export credit under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM) – NIRYAT PROTSAHAN (Component-I). NIRYAT PROTSAHAN – Interest Subvention Component Objective Eligibility Framework Eligible Lending Institutions Eligible Exporters Scope of Coverage 6. RBI Grants In-Principle Approval to Payoneer India as PA-CB Context: RBI granted in-principle approval to Payoneer India Pvt. Ltd. to operate as a Payment Aggregator – Cross Border (PA-CB). Purpose About Payoneer PA-CB Approval Operations Target Beneficiaries Regulatory Conditions for Non-Bank PA-CBs Facts To Remember 1. Himachal CM Inaugurates Helicopter Services in Shimla The initiative aims to boost air connectivity and tourism in the hill State. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, inaugurated helicopter services from Sanjauli heliport, Shimla. 2. NASA astronaut Sunita Williams retires after 27-year stellar career NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has retired from the space agency, capping a stellar 27-year career during which she completed three missions aboard the International Space Station and set various human spaceflight