Daily Current Affairs Quiz21 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. UNESCO Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Alliance Why in News? The UNESCO Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Alliance has announced the election of its first-ever Global Board, marking a significant milestone in strengthening its institutional governance and global coordination. What is the UNESCO MIL Alliance? Launch & Evolution Organisations Involved Objectives National Affairs 1. Reusable Rockets Source: TH Why in News? The global space industry is moving decisively towards rocket reusability as SpaceX’s Starship prepares for full-scale commercial operations, while Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) advances towards its Orbital Return Flight Experiment (OREX). These efforts aim to reduce launch costs by up to 80%, redefining access to space. What are Reusable Rockets? Why Rockets Have Multiple Stages Global Leaders vs India (Status by 2026) Feature Global Leaders (SpaceX / Blue Origin) India (ISRO) Recovery Method Vertical Take-off & Vertical Landing (VTVL) Winged RLV + Retro-propulsion Reuse Record Falcon 9 reused 30+ times Experimental stage Main Vehicle Falcon 9, Starship Pushpak (RLV-TD), NGLV Strategic Focus Commercial dominance, Mars Strategic autonomy, space station 2. Lok Sabha to Launch Digital Attendance System Source: TNIE Why in News? The Lok Sabha will introduce a digital attendance system from the Budget Session 2026 to ensure the physical presence of Members of Parliament (MPs) inside the House during sittings. What is the Digital Attendance System? Announced By Objectives How the System Works 3. Internet Governance Internship & Capacity Building Scheme (IGICBS) Source: PIB Why in News? The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) has completed one year of the Internet Governance Internship & Capacity Building Scheme (IGICBS) and marked the milestone with a national-level event in New Delhi. What is IGICBS? Launch & Institutional Framework Objectives 4. Artemis II Mission Source: TOI Context: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has set February 6 as the target launch date for Artemis II, the first crewed lunar mission in over five decades, marking humanity’s return to crewed deep-space exploration since 1972. What is Artemis II? Organisations Involved Objectives 5. Young Ambassadors of Change Initiative Source: TOI Context: A government school in Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), Tamil Nadu, has launched an innovative value-education programme to inculcate moral values and social responsibility among children through daily practice rather than rote learning. What is the Young Ambassadors of Change Initiative? 6. Two New Rare Ant Fly Species Discovered Source: TH Context: Researchers have discovered two new, extremely rare ant fly species from Delhi and the Western Ghats, highlighting the hidden biodiversity of urban forests and recognised biodiversity hotspots. What are Ant Flies? Newly Discovered Species 1. Metadon ghorpadei Key Features 2. Metadon reemeri Key Features 7. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Notified as Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) Source: TOI Context: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has notified the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) to strengthen conservation efforts in the Aravalli Range. About Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Location & Extent What is an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ)? Legal Basis 8. 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) Source: PIB Context: India hosted the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) from January 14–16, 2026, marking the fourth time the country has hosted this prestigious parliamentary forum. About CSPOC 2026 Chairmanship Handover 9. 5th Edition of INS Sagardhwani Flagged Off for Sagar Maitri V (SM-5) Source: PIB Why in News? In January 2026, INS Sagardhwani was flagged off for the 5th edition of the Sagar Maitri initiative (SM-5) from Southern Naval Command, Kochi, strengthening India’s oceanographic cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). About Sagar Maitri Programme Vision Objective MAITRI Framework Sagar Maitri V (SM-5) Participating Countries (8 IOR nations) About INS Sagardhwani Historical Significance Banking/Finance 1. EPFO 3.0 Source: ET Context: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to roll out EPFO 3.0, a major digital upgrade involving a new portal, backend software overhaul, and AI-powered language translation, aimed at improving service delivery and accessibility. What is EPFO 3.0 EPFO 3.0 represents the next phase of digital transformation of provident fund services, moving beyond incremental fixes to a core system overhaul, similar to a banking-style core platform. Key Features Objectives 2. Centre May Amend Sarfaesi Act Source: BS Context: The Union government is considering amendments to the Sarfaesi Act, 2002 to remove legal ambiguities, enhance oversight of the Central Registry, and improve ease of doing business. Key Institution Involved What is the SARFAESI Act, 2002? What is the Proposed Amendment Present Legal Position What is CERSAI? Legal Basis 3. RRB Amalgamation Source: ET Context: The Ministry of Finance will hold a high-level review meeting on January 30 to assess the performance of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) after their latest amalgamation. What is RRB Amalgamation? Objectives of RRB Amalgamation Phases of RRB Amalgamation Phase-wise Consolidation Institutional Framework 4. RBI Recognises FEDAI as Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO) for Authorised Dealers Source: BL Context: In January 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recognised the Foreign Exchange Dealers’ Association of India (FEDAI) as a Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO) for all Authorised Dealers (ADs) under the RBI’s Omnibus Framework for SROs. Key Details of RBI Recognition About FEDAI 5. Canara Bank Partners with NBSL to Integrate UPI into Canara ai1Pe Source: BS Context: In January 2026, Canara Bank partnered with NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL) to integrate Unified Payments Interface (UPI) technology into its payment application Canara ai1Pe. Key Details of the Partnership What is the Integration About? About NBSL’s Plugin-Based UPI Model Facts To Remember 1. Govt may remove small-car exception in CAFE-3 norms The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is considering removing the special exemption for very small petrol cars in the final notification of Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency Phase-3 (CAFE-3) norms. 2. RBI approves Kaizad Bharucha as HDFC Bank Whole-Time Director The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the re-appointment of Kaizad Bharucha as a Whole-Time Director (Deputy Managing Director) on the board of HDFC Bank. 3. IMF Raises India’s Economic Growth Forecast to

Daily Current Affairs Quiz20 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. Pax Silica Source: The Hindu Context: The Pax Silica initiative, launched by the United States in December 2025, aims to secure rare earth elements (REEs), semiconductor, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) supply chains, reduce coercive dependencies, and build trusted digital infrastructure. India is expected to be invited to join, reflecting its growing role in the global digital and AI ecosystem. What is Pax Silica? Key Members & Observers Core participants Observers National Affairs 1. India–UAE Pledge to Double Bilateral Trade to $200 Billion Source: ET Context: India and the UAE have agreed to double their bilateral trade to USD 200 billion by 2032 and jointly reaffirmed their commitment to counter terrorism in all its forms, strengthening the India–UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. What is the India–UAE Pledge? A broad strategic understanding to deepen cooperation across: Key Provisions of the Agreement Area Key Provisions Key Details / Implications Trade & Economic Cooperation Target to double bilateral trade Bilateral trade aimed at USD 200 billion by 2032 Builds on India–UAE CEPA (2022) Reduced tariffs; boosted services and investment flows Priority sectors Manufacturing, services, digital trade, supply-chain integration Energy Partnership Long-term LNG agreement USD 3 billion deal: ADNOC Gas to supply LNG to HPCL for 10 years Strategic energy shift India becomes UAE’s largest LNG customer Broader energy cooperation Civil nuclear energy, energy infrastructure, clean energy transition Defence & Security Strategic Defence Partnership Letter of Intent to conclude a formal partnership Counter-terrorism Joint condemnation of terrorism in all forms Security cooperation Defence manufacturing, intelligence sharing, maritime security Space & Advanced Technology Space collaboration LoI on joint space infrastructure development and commercialisation Digital infrastructure Establishment of a supercomputing cluster in India Frontier technologies Cooperation in AI, high-performance computing, space applications Investment & Infrastructure Industrial development UAE participation in Special Investment Region at Dholera, Gujarat Financial services expansion DP World and First Abu Dhabi Bank operations in GIFT City Strategic objective Strengthens India’s role as a global financial and logistics hub 2. Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) Source: The Times of India Context: The Union Government has notified detailed rules for the utilisation and administration of the Environmental (Protection) Fund, giving operational effect to provisions introduced under the Jan Vishwas Act, 2023. The Fund aims to ensure that penalties collected for environmental violations are reinvested into environmental protection and restoration. What is the Environmental (Protection) Fund? Legal Basis Nodal Authority Objectives 3. Indian Skimmer Conservation Project Launched Context: The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), has launched a new conservation project to protect the endangered Indian Skimmer and its breeding habitats across the Ganga River Basin. About the Indian Skimmer Habitat Conservation Status Key Characteristics Threats to the Species About the Conservation Project 4. Export Promotion Mission (EPM) Source: News on Air Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued operational guidelines for extending interest subvention on export credit under Niryat Protsahan, bringing eligible exporters under the ambit of the Export Promotion Mission (EPM)—a flagship, mission-mode export framework announced in the Union Budget 2025–26. What is the Export Promotion Mission (EPM)? The Export Promotion Mission (EPM) is a unified national, mission-mode framework aimed at strengthening India’s export competitiveness by integrating: It replaces fragmented export-support schemes with an outcome-linked, digitally driven approach. Key Details Established in Mission Period Nodal Implementing Agency Objectives Structure of Export Promotion Mission Two Integrated Sub-Schemes 1. Niryat Protsahan (Financial Enablers) 2. Niryat Disha (Non-Financial Enablers) 5. Parbati Giri Context: The Prime Minister of India paid tribute to Parbati Giri on her birth centenary, recalling her fearless participation in India’s freedom struggle and her lifelong dedication to social service, especially among marginalised communities in western Odisha. Who was Parbati Giri? Early Life 5. Hooghly River Mapped Using Drones Source: The Times of India Context: For the first time, State Mission for Clean Ganga (SMCG), West Bengal, has begun deploying drones to map pollution sources along a 120-km stretch of the Hooghly River, marking a technology-driven approach to river rejuvenation under the Clean Ganga framework. About the Hooghly River Origin Course Major Tributaries River System 6. Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme (TAPS) Context: The Tamil Nadu government has introduced a new hybrid pension model called the Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme (TAPS) to address long-standing demands from government employees for pension security while avoiding the heavy fiscal burden of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). Why TAPS was introduced What is TAPS? TAPS is a hybrid pension scheme combining features of: It aims to provide assured, inflation-linked pension while retaining employee contributions. Key Features of TAPS 7. India ranks 6th in Asia Manufacturing Index 2026 Source: BS Context: India has ranked sixth among 11 Asian countries in the Asia Manufacturing Index (AMI) 2026, which assesses the relative competitiveness of manufacturing economies across eight pillars and 43 sub-parameters. The ranking highlights India’s strong economic and workforce fundamentals but flags persistent structural and policy bottlenecks. Overall Rankings (Top & Bottom) India’s Performance Snapshot India retains its 6th position for the second consecutive year: The index describes India as exhibiting a “unique duality” — strong growth momentum alongside deep-seated structural constraints. Pillars Used in the Index Countries are evaluated across 8 key pillars: Scores are on a scale of 100, with higher scores indicating stronger performance. India’s Pillar-wise Ranking Pillar Rank Economy 3 Workforce 1 Infrastructure 4 Innovation 5 Business environment 6 Political risk 9 International trade 9 Tax policy 9 8. Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) Source: PIB What is the News? On 15 January 2026, Union MoS (IC) Dr Jitendra Singh announced the deployment of 200 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) across four major Indian cities to strengthen urban weather observation and forecasting. Announcement Details Key Features of the Initiative Coverage Objective New Facilities Inaugurated at IMD As part of the foundation day celebrations, the following were inaugurated: 9. 17th Trilateral Coast Guard Exercise DOSTI-17 What is the News? The 17th edition of the trilateral Coast Guard exercise ‘DOSTI-17’ involving

Daily Current Affairs Quiz18 & 19 January, 2026 International Affairs 1. United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Context: On 23 January 2026, the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) will celebrate its 80th anniversary, marking eight decades of coordinating global action on development. About ECOSOC Key Functions 2. UN Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty Context: The BBNJ Treaty has entered into force after surpassing the required 60 ratifications, establishing the first legally binding global framework to conserve biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (the High Seas). About the BBNJ Treaty Targets National Affairs 1. SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Area) Scheme Context: The Government of India plans to leverage high-resolution drone survey data generated under the SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Area) scheme to improve rural civic infrastructure, beyond its original objective of providing legal property ownership records. About SVAMITVA Scheme 2. India Emerges as a Global Cooperative Powerhouse Context: The United Nations declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC), recognizing the global importance of cooperatives. India has leveraged this momentum under the vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi”, becoming a major global player in cooperative development. Sahkar Se Samriddhi “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” is the vision and policy framework of the Government of India for strengthening the cooperative sector. Cooperatives Cooperatives are member-owned and member-managed organizations formed to meet the common economic, social, or cultural needs of their members. They operate on the principle of mutual help, democratic control, and shared benefits. Importance of Cooperatives in India Key Initiatives Taken for Cooperatives 3. Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme Source: PIB Context: The Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme has recently highlighted its tangible outcomes: 56 student-designed chips fabricated, 75+ patents filed, and extensive chip design training, reflecting India’s growing indigenous semiconductor design capability. About the Programme Key Features Feature Details Outlay ₹250 crore (5 years) Human Resource Targets 200 PhDs, 7,000 M.Tech (VLSI), 8,800 M.Tech (related streams with VLSI), 69,000 B.Tech students Infrastructure Access Shared EDA tools, HPC, FPGA boards, and SMART labs Hands-on Fabrication Shared wafer runs via Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL), Mohali Chip Design Enablement National ChipIN Centre operated by C-DAC, Bengaluru Innovation Outcomes Start-up incubation, patents, IP cores, ASICs, SoCs Industry Collaboration Training with global EDA and semiconductor firms 4. Second Range-Wide Dolphin Survey Source: News on Air Context: The second range-wide Dolphin Survey has been launched from Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh under Project Dolphin to update population estimates, assess habitats, and evaluate threats to riverine and estuarine dolphins. About Project Dolphin About the Second Range-Wide Dolphin Survey 5. BRICS Plus Naval Exercise Source: Mint Context: India’s decision to skip the BRICS Plus naval exercise “Will for Peace 2026” has been highlighted in international discussions. New Delhi clarified that these drills are not institutionalised BRICS activities and that its non-participation was a considered political choice amid evolving geopolitics. About BRICS Plus Naval Exercises Participants Key Features 6. PM Launches ₹6,957-Crore Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project Source: TH Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the ₹6,957-crore Kaziranga elevated corridor project in Assam’s Kaliabor and virtually flagged off two Amrit Bharat trains from the poll-bound State. The event combined infrastructure rollout with political messaging ahead of upcoming elections. Key Project Details Kaziranga National Park 7. World’s Largest Green Hydrogen & Ammonia Project: Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh Source: TH Context: India is aggressively promoting green energy and decarbonisation, aiming to meet net-zero targets by 2070. Green hydrogen is a key focus for the National Hydrogen Mission, providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels in industries like fertilizers, steel, and transport. Location: Developer & Investment: Capacity & Phases: 8. Womaniya Initiative – Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Context: India has been promoting women entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and MSME empowerment under national initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Vocal for Local. Public procurement has historically underutilized women-led enterprises. The ‘Womaniya Initiative’ seeks to bridge this gap by enabling direct access to government buyers for women entrepreneurs and SHGs. The initiative aligns with efforts to increase inclusivity in economic participation and strengthen the women-led MSE ecosystem. Event: Objective: About Government e-Marketplace (GeM): 9. INDIA LAUNCHES RESPONSIBLE NATIONS INDEX (RNI) 2026 Source: News on Air Launch Details Key Highlights: Global Ranking – Top & Notable Nations Rank Country Score 1 Singapore 0.61945 2 Switzerland 0.58692 3 Denmark 0.58372 4 Cyprus 0.57737 5 Sweden 0.57397 10 Georgia 0.55805 15 Norway 0.55291 16 India 0.55151 17 France 0.54835 25 United Kingdom 0.53849 50 Indonesia 0.51992 66 USA 0.50880 68 China 0.50547 81 Brazil 0.49324 88 South Africa 0.48539 90 Pakistan 0.48336 96 Russia 0.47896 145 Afghanistan 0.41398 146 North Korea 0.41329 152 South Sudan 0.37389 153 Syria 0.37254 154 Central African Republic 0.35715 Banking/Finance 1. Tax-Saving Investments Context: With less than three months left in FY26, investors under the old tax regime often rush to make tax-saving investments. Experts warn that last-minute, deduction-driven choices may compromise long-term financial stability and liquidity. Key Considerations for Tax Planning Major Tax-Saving Instruments 2. RBI Proposes Linking BRICS Digital Currencies for Cross-Border Payments Source: TOI Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recommended to the Government of India that a proposal to link the Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) of BRICS countries be included in the agenda of the 2026 BRICS Summit. The move aims to facilitate smoother cross-border payments among member nations. About the Proposal What are BRICS Digital Currencies? BRICS Digital Currencies refer to Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) issued by BRICS member states and proposals to link or interoperate these CBDCs for cross-border payments, trade settlement, and financial cooperation. It is not a single BRICS currency, but a network of national digital currencies. Key Countries & Their CBDCs Is this De-Dollarisation? 3. Nominal GDP Growth for FY27 Likely at 10–10.5% Source: BS Context: Ahead of the Union Budget 2026–27, a Business Standard poll of economists indicates that the government is likely to assume nominal GDP growth of 10–10.5% for

Daily Current Affairs Quiz16&17 January, 2026 National Affairs 1. The Global Risks Report 2026 Source: WEF Context: The World Economic Forum (WEF) has identified geo-economic confrontation as the top short-term global risk in its Global Risks Report 2026, surpassing armed conflict. This reflects escalating trade wars, sanctions regimes, and the strategic weaponisation of economic tools. About the Global Risks Report 2026 Key Findings Implications and Challenges for India WEF Recommendations 2. NITI Aayog Report: Achieving Efficiencies in MSME Sector through Convergence of Schemes Source: PIB Context: In January 2026, NITI Aayog released a comprehensive report advocating convergence of MSME schemes to reduce duplication, enhance efficiency, and improve last-mile delivery amid rising public expenditure on MSMEs. About the Report Objective of the Report MSME Sector: Key Facts Rationale for Scheme Convergence Major MSME Initiatives Challenges in Scheme Convergence Key Recommendations 3. Amended Forest Conservation Guidelines 2026 Context: In January 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) amended the Forest Conservation Guidelines under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam to allow non-government participation in restoring degraded forest land. About the Amended Guidelines Key Amendments 4. IndiaAI Mission Context: IndiaAI, an Independent Business Division under Digital India Corporation of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, in collaboration with the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA), has launched the IndiaAI Financial Reporting Compliance Challenge. What it is The IndiaAI Mission is a national mission of the Government of India aimed at building a robust, inclusive, and responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem aligned with India’s developmental priorities. It seeks to position India as a global hub for AI innovation, while ensuring ethical use, social inclusion, and economic impact. Nodal Ministry & Implementation Objectives Key Pillars of the IndiaAI Mission 1. IndiaAI Compute Capacity 2. IndiaAI Innovation Centre 3. IndiaAI Datasets Platform 4. IndiaAI Application Development Initiative 5. IndiaAI FutureSkills 6. Responsible AI Framework 5. CSIR-NIScPR 5th Foundation Day & SVASTIK Portal Launch Source: PIB Context: The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) celebrated its 5th Foundation Day on 14 January 2026 in New Delhi, highlighting its work in science communication, policy research, AI-enabled multilingual outreach, and traditional knowledge validation. About CSIR-NIScPR SVASTIK Web Portal Launched What is SVASTIK? SVASTIK stands for Scientifically Validated Societal Traditional Knowledge. Key Features of the SVASTIK Portal 6. Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024 Source: PIB Context: The NITI Aayog released the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024 on 14 January 2026, offering a comprehensive assessment of export readiness across Indian States and Union Territories (UTs). Purpose of EPI Framework & Coverage Pillars of EPI 2024 Export Infrastructure (20%) Business Ecosystem (40%) Policy & Governance (20%) Export Performance (20%) New dimensions added in 2024: Classification of States & UTs Top Performing States & UTs (EPI 2024) A. Large States – Leaders B. Small States, North-East & UTs – Leaders 7ect India’s push towards digital governance, export competitiveness, cultural diplomacy, AI-driven regulation, and global leadership in energy, justice, and sustainability. If you want next: 7. Project Suncatcher Context: Google (via Google Research) has unveiled Project Suncatcher, a research initiative exploring AI datacentres in low-Earth orbit (LEO) powered entirely by solar energy, aimed at addressing AI’s rapidly growing electricity demand. About Project Suncatcher A concept and research programme to deploy AI datacentres in space, operating in LEO and running continuously on solar power to support energy-intensive AI workloads. Aim How It Works 8. Kruger National Park Context: Kruger National Park was temporarily closed to day visitors after severe flooding, caused by prolonged heavy rainfall leading to multiple rivers overflowing. About Kruger National Park Location 9. Lokpal of India Context: The Lokpal of India observed its Foundation Day on 16 January 2026, marking the date on which the institution legally came into force in 2014. About Lokpal of India Legal Basis and Establishment Composition Eligibility Criteria Chairperson Judicial Members Non-Judicial Members Powers and Functions 10. Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Source: IE Context: Shri Praveen Vashista, IPS (Bihar cadre, 1991 batch), has been appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission and took oath on 16 January 2026. About the Central Vigilance Commission Establishment & Legal Status Composition & Tenure 11. 10 Years of StartUp India Source: PIB Context: On National StartUp Day (16 January 2026), the Prime Minister of India extended greetings as India completed 10 years of the StartUp India initiative, launched in 2016 to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. About StartUp India Launched on Objectives Key Features (19-Point Action Plan) 12. Dugongs Source: The Hindu Context: The Union government’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has asked Tamil Nadu to revise the design of the proposed International Dugong Conservation Centre at Manora (Thanjavur). About Dugongs Habitat Conservation Status 13. Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara Context: Telangana is preparing for the biennial Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara beginning 28 January 2026, along with large-scale redevelopment of the sacred precinct at Medaram. About Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara Where it is held Agriculture 1. India–Israel Joint Declaration on Fisheries and Aquaculture Context: India and Israel signed a Joint Ministerial Declaration of Intent to deepen cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture during the Global Summit on Blue Food Security 2026 held in Eilat. About the Joint Declaration A bilateral cooperation framework between India and Israel aimed at strengthening fisheries and aquaculture through technology transfer, joint research, innovation, and capacity building, aligned with sustainable and climate-resilient development goals. Key Features Facts To Remember 1. NHAI Pilot for Real-Time Stray Cattle Safety Alerts on National Highways The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a pilot project to deliver real-time safety alerts to highway users approaching stray cattle–prone zones, as part of Road Safety Month 2026. The initiative aims to reduce accidents caused by sudden cattle movement, especially during fog and low-visibility conditions. 2. New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2026 The 53rd New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 has begun at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, and will run till 18 January 2026. For the first time, entry is free to promote

Daily Current Affairs Quiz15 January, 2026 National Affairs 1. INSV Kaundinya Context: The INSV Kaundinya, a hand-stitched wooden sailing ship, successfully completed a historic voyage from Porbandar (India) to Muscat (Oman) in January 2026, retracing ancient Indian Ocean trade routes. It is named after Kaundinya, the legendary Indian mariner and merchant associated with early maritime trade between India and Southeast Asia. About INSV Kaundinya 2. Employment and Social Trends 2026 Report: ILO Source: TH Context: The International Labour Organization (ILO) has projected that the global unemployment rate will remain at a historically low level of 4.9% in 2026, affecting about 186 million people worldwide, according to its Employment and Social Trends 2026 report released in Geneva. Key Findings of the Report: 1. Low unemployment, but poor job quality 2. Slow decline in working poverty 3. Rising informality Regional and structural concerns ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo warned that these trends show “a lack of progress where it is needed most.” Trade and structural shifts 3. Kuki-Zo Council Reiterates Demand for Union Territory Source: TH Context: The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has reiterated its demand for a separate Union Territory (UT) for the Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur, citing continued insecurity and loss of faith in the State administration following the ethnic violence that began in May 2023. The demand was conveyed to Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, through a memorandum submitted after a mass rally in Churachandpur district. What is the Kuki-Zo Council? The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) is an umbrella socio-political organisation representing the Kuki-Zo tribal groups mainly in Manipur, and parts of Mizoram and Assam. It functions as a collective negotiating and coordinating platform for political, administrative, and security-related issues affecting the Kuki-Zo people. Who are the Kuki-Zo? 4. Responsible Nations Index (RNI) Source: News on Air Context: The World Intellectual Foundation (WIF) will launch the Responsible Nations Index (RNI) in collaboration with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), IIM Mumbai, and the Dr Ambedkar International Centre. About the Responsible Nations Index The Responsible Nations Index is a global ranking framework that evaluates how responsibly countries: Aim To shift global benchmarking away from purely economic (GDP) or power-based (military strength) rankings towards a values-based assessment focused on: Key Features 5. 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Context: The 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) concluded in Abu Dhabi, urging an accelerated global transition to renewable energy to meet climate and energy security goals. About IRENA Founded: 26 January 2009 (Bonn, Germany)Statute in force: 8 July 2010Headquarters: Masdar City, Abu Dhabi (UAE)India: Founding member Aim of IRENA To accelerate the global energy transition through sustainable and equitable use of renewables for: 6. BRICS India 2026 Source: TH Context: India has officially launched the BRICS India 2026 logo and website ahead of assuming the Chairmanship of BRICS in 2026. About BRICS India 2026 Logo Official visual identity of India’s BRICS Chairship 2026. Host: IndiaChairmanship period: Calendar year 2026Milestone: 20th anniversary of BRICS (2006–2026) Logo Theme & Features 7. Jharkhand Megaliths Source: TOI Context: The State of Jharkhand has initiated efforts to secure a UNESCO World Heritage Tag for its vast and unique megalithic landscapes, with the Chief Minister highlighting their significance at international platforms such as Davos and in the UK. What are Megaliths? Megaliths are large stone structures erected by prehistoric and early historic communities for multiple purposes, including: Common forms include: Region Unique Features 8. Shaksgam Valley Context: The Shaksgam Valley is in focus after China defended infrastructure activity following India’s protest. About Shaksgam Valley Also called the Trans-Karakoram Tract, a high-altitude region claimed by India but administered by China. Location History & Dispute 9. Kashi–Tamil Sangamam Source: TH Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Pongal and highlighted the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam initiative as a powerful symbol of India’s cultural unity amid diversity, reinforcing the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” He articulated these views in a blog titled “Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and a tribute to ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’” and during Pongal celebrations in New Delhi. About Kashi–Tamil Sangamam A cultural, academic, and people-to-people exchange initiative that celebrates the civilisational links between Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu. Key Highlights Banking/Finance 1. RBI Issues Norms for Internal Ombudsman in Banks & NBFCs Source: ET Context: In January 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued fresh guidelines on the appointment and functioning of Internal Ombudsmen (IOs) in banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) to strengthen customer grievance redressal mechanisms. RBI has issued separate directions to provide category-specific clarity for banks and NBFCs. Who is an Internal Ombudsman (IO)? An Internal Ombudsman is an independent senior functionary within a regulated entity who: Key Objectives of the New Norms Key Features of RBI Guidelines 1. Mandatory Appointment 2. Independence & Tenure 3. Scope of Review 4. Binding Nature 5. Governance & Reporting 2. SMBC gets RBI’s in-principle Approval to set up Wholly Owned Subsidiary in India Source: BS Context: Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to establish a wholly owned subsidiary (WOS) in India. The approval allows SMBC to convert its existing branch-based operations into a locally incorporated subsidiary, the RBI said in a statement. What does the approval mean? Current SMBC presence in India SMBC currently operates through: These branches will be converted into the WOS once final approvals are granted. 3. Sebi Tightens Scrutiny of NFOs over Portfolio Overlap Context: India’s market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), has begun closely scrutinising new fund offers (NFOs) for portfolio overlap with existing schemes, even as its draft proposals on the issue are yet to be notified. Key proposals in the consultation paper Cap on portfolio overlap Value and contra funds Corrective actions if overlap breaches limits If overlap exceeds permitted levels: 4. New Fund Offer (NFO) Context: India’s market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), has intensified scrutiny of New Fund Offers (NFOs) to check portfolio overlap with existing mutual fund schemes,