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,