Daily Current Affairs - 15th & 16th January 2026
- TPP
- 5 days ago
- 29 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | Nobel Peace Prize Transfer Debate, Henley Passport Index, EU Leadership at 77th Republic Day, Global Risks Report 2026, EPI 2024, Global Economic Prospects 2026, Supreme Court Split Verdict on Corruption Act, RTE Act 25% Quota Ruling, Voyager-1 Milestone, Ultracold Atom Research, MSME Scheme Convergence Report, NPS Vatsalya, Womaniya Initiative, and more.
If you missed Monthly Current Affairs Pointers (CAP) | Nov - Dec 2025, read it here.Table of Content
SECURITY / DEFENCE
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Venezuelan Nobel Peace Prize and the Offer to U.S. President
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, announced she would offer her Nobel Peace Prize medal to the U.S. President, igniting public debate.
Machado received the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for promoting democratic rights and peaceful transition in Venezuela.
The announcement and subsequent presentation of the medal sparked discussion about the transferability of the Nobel Peace Prize.
Nobel Peace Prize is one of five Nobel Prizes established by the will of Alfred Nobel, awarded to those who promote peace and fraternity among nations.
About the Nobel Peace Prize
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to the person or organization that has done the most or best work for fraternity between nations, reduction of standing armies, and promotion of peace congresses as set out in Alfred Nobel’s will.
The prize has been awarded annually by the Norwegian Nobel Committee since 1901.
Since World War II, the prize recognises four main areas: arms control and disarmament, peace negotiations, democracy and human rights, and work towards a better organized and peaceful world.
In the 21st century, efforts to limit harm caused by man-made climate change and environmental threats are also considered relevant for the award.
Components of the Nobel Peace Prize
The Nobel Peace Prize includes a medal, a diploma, and a cheque, which is currently worth 11 million Swedish crowns.
The medal is made of 18-carat gold, weighs 196 grams, and has a diameter of 6.6 centimetres.
Indian Nobel Peace Prize Laureates
Indian Nobel Peace Prize winners include Mother Teresa (1979), the 14th Dalai Lama (1989), and Kailash Satyarthi (2014).
Transferability Rules of the Nobel Peace Prize
Once the Nobel Peace Prize is announced, it cannot be revoked, shared, or transferred, and this decision is final and permanent.
The title of Nobel Laureate, which recognises the achievement, is non-transferable under the statutes of the Nobel Foundation.
The physical medal itself—the object—can be gifted, loaned, or displayed by another person because it is considered personal property.
A prominent example of a Nobel medal changing hands is Dmitry Muratov’s medal, which was auctioned for over USD 100 million to support refugees from the Ukraine war.
Despite Machado giving the medal to the U.S. President, Donald Trump is not and cannot become a Nobel Peace Prize laureate as a result of this gesture.
Henley Passport Index 2026
The Indian passport on the Henley Passport Index ranked relatively higher in the 2000s; however, it saw a steady decline in the subsequent years.
In 2026, it was ranked 80th globally, moving up five positions from last year.
Allowing visa–free access to 55 countries, this five-rank rise indicates a gradual recovery in India’s passport strength after several years of stagnation in the low-to-mid 80s.
Henley Passport Index
It is the original, authoritative ranking of all the world’s passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.
The index is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
In 2026 edition, Singapore has retained its position as the world’s most powerful passport.
EU Council and EU Commission at India’s 77th Republic Day
The Presidents of the European Union (EU) Council and the EU Commission will be the Chief Guests at India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations.
This highlights the growing strategic and political engagement between India and the European Union.
European Union (EU) Council
The EU Council was established in 1958. It was originally formed as the Council of the European Economic Community (EEC).
The EU Council acts as the voice of EU member governments.
It plays a key role in adopting EU laws.
It also coordinates policies among EU member states.
The members of the EU Council are government ministers from each EU country.
Ministers attend meetings based on the policy area under discussion, such as finance or foreign affairs.
The Presidency of the EU Council is held on a six-month rotating basis. Each EU member country takes turns holding this presidency. The current presidency is held by Cyprus.
Cyprus assumed the presidency in January 2026.
The EU Council is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.
European Union (EU) Commission
The EU Commission was also established in 1958.
The EU Commission functions as the executive arm of the European Union.
Its primary role is to promote the general interest of the EU.
It does so by proposing new legislation.
The Commission is also responsible for enforcing EU laws. It plays a central role in implementing EU policies and programmes.
The EU Commission manages and implements the EU budget.
The members of the EU Commission are known as Commissioners.
There is one Commissioner from each EU member country.
The EU Commission is also based in Brussels, Belgium.
Global Risk Report 2026
The Global Risk Report 2026, released by the World Economic Forum (WEF), identifies Geoeconomic Confrontation as the most significant global risk.
The report assesses global risks across three time horizons, namely the immediate term (2026), the short-to-medium term (up to 2028), and the long term (up to 2036).
Key Global Risks: Immediate and Short-to-Medium Term (2026–2028)
In the current and immediate term (2026), Geoeconomic Confrontation emerges as the most dominant global risk.
Geoeconomic confrontation refers to the use of economic instruments to pursue geopolitical objectives rather than purely economic outcomes.
Alongside this, State-based armed conflicts are identified as a major short-to-medium-term global risk.
State-based armed conflict refers to direct military confrontation between sovereign states.
The report identifies Extreme weather events as another significant global risk during this period.
Extreme weather events include heatwaves, floods, cyclones, droughts, and wildfires driven by climate change.
Rising societal polarisation is also highlighted as a major risk in the near term.
Societal polarisation refers to deep divisions within societies based on ideology, identity, or economic status.
Key Global Risks: Long Term (Up to 2036)
In the long-term horizon (up to 2036), Extreme weather events are identified as the most severe global risk.
Biodiversity loss is highlighted as a critical long-term threat to environmental stability.
Biodiversity loss refers to the decline in species diversity and genetic variation across ecosystems.
The report further identifies Ecosystem collapse as a major long-term global risk.
Ecosystem collapse means the failure of natural systems to sustain life and provide essential services.
Major Risks Faced by India
The report identifies Cyber insecurity as a major risk specifically affecting India.
Cyber insecurity refers to vulnerabilities in digital systems, networks, and data due to cyber threats and attacks.
Inequality, including wealth inequality and income inequality, is identified as another significant risk for India.
Wealth inequality refers to unequal ownership of assets, while income inequality refers to unequal earnings across populations.
Insufficient public services and social protections are identified as serious challenges for India.
This includes gaps in education, infrastructure, pensions, and welfare systems.
Understanding Geoeconomic Confrontation
Geoeconomic confrontation involves the strategic use of economic tools by global or regional powers.
The objective of this strategy is to reshape cross-border economic relations in favour of national interests.
A key aim of geoeconomic confrontation is to promote self-reliance in critical sectors.
Another objective is to constrain geopolitical rivals through economic pressure.
It also seeks the consolidation of spheres of influence in trade, technology, and finance.
Tools Used in Geoeconomic Confrontation
Economic sanctions are a primary tool used in geoeconomic confrontation.
Sanctions are restrictive measures that limit a country’s trade, finance, or market access.
Trade controls are used to restrict the flow of imports and exports.
Investment restrictions limit foreign capital in strategically sensitive sectors.
Subsidies and state aid are provided to support domestic industries.
Currency measures involve exchange rate interventions or financial restrictions.
Recent Examples of Geoeconomic Confrontation
The imposition of tariffs by the United States is cited as a recent example.
Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods to increase their domestic price.
China’s ban on the export of critical minerals is another prominent example.
Critical minerals are essential inputs for electronics, renewable energy systems, and defence technologies.
Potential Consequences of Geoeconomic Confrontation
One major consequence is the erosion of multilateralism.
Multilateralism refers to cooperation among multiple countries through global institutions and rules-based systems.
The report warns of disruptions to systemically important global supply chains.
Systemically important supply chains are those critical to global economic stability and security.
There is a risk of concentration of strategic resources and advanced technologies in a few countries.
Economic downturns may occur due to trade fragmentation and reduced cooperation.
The likelihood of state-based armed conflict may increase due to escalating geopolitical tensions.
Recommended Actions by the Report
The report recommends prioritising economic inducements that foster mutual gains.
Economic inducements refer to incentives designed to encourage cooperation rather than coercion.
It calls for strengthening and reinforcing existing multilateral institutions.
The report emphasises investing in local resilience to reduce vulnerability to global shocks.
Local resilience refers to the capacity of economies and communities to withstand, adapt to, and recover from disruptions.
4th Edition of Export Preparedness Index (EPI)
The 4th edition of the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) has been released.
EPI 2024 has been released by NITI Aayog, which is India’s apex public policy think tank.
About Export Preparedness Index (EPI)
The Export Preparedness Index (EPI) is a comprehensive assessment framework.
It evaluates export readiness across India’s States and Union Territories (UTs).
Export readiness refers to the ability of regions to produce, support, and sustain exports competitively.
The index is aligned with India’s target of achieving USD 1 trillion in merchandise exports by 2030.
Merchandise exports refer to the export of physical goods as opposed to services.
Structure of the Export Preparedness Index
The EPI framework is structured around four core pillars.
These pillars collectively capture the institutional, infrastructural, and performance dimensions of exports.
The four pillars are further disaggregated into 13 sub-pillars.
These sub-pillars are measured using a total of 70 indicators.
Indicators are quantifiable metrics used to assess performance and preparedness.
Pillars of EPI and Their Weightage
Export Infrastructure constitutes 20% weightage in the EPI framework.
Export infrastructure refers to physical and digital facilities that enable the movement of goods.
Business Ecosystem carries the highest weightage of 40% in the index.
Business ecosystem includes factors that support entrepreneurship, investment, and ease of doing business.
Policy and Governance accounts for 20% weightage in the EPI.
Policy and governance refer to regulatory frameworks, institutional support, and policy stability.
Export Performance contributes 20% weightage to the overall index.
Export performance measures actual export outcomes and growth trends.
Sub-Indicators Under the EPI
One key sub-indicator is Trade and Logistics Infrastructure.
Trade and logistics infrastructure includes ports, roads, warehousing, and customs efficiency.
Another important sub-indicator is Human Capital.
Human capital refers to the skill level, education, and productivity of the workforce supporting exports.
RBI Proposes Resumption of Licensing of Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a discussion paper exploring the resumption of licensing for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs).
The proposal is driven by positive developments in the UCB sector, increased stakeholder demand, and a strengthened regulatory framework under RBI.
Licensing of UCBs has been paused since 2004 after many newly licensed banks became financially unsound within a short period.
Arguments for Resumption of Licensing
Financial Inclusion: UCBs play a vital role in serving remote areas and small towns, thereby promoting financial inclusion.
Enhanced Regulatory Powers: RBI’s supervisory capacity has been significantly strengthened after the 2020 amendment to the Banking Regulation Act.
Institutional Support: The newly functional Umbrella Organisation (NUCFDC) is expected to provide capital, knowledge, and technology support to UCBs.
NUCFDC (National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation) is an institution created to strengthen the financial and operational resilience of UCBs.
About Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs)
UCBs are co-operative societies registered under a State Co-operative Societies Act or the Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act.
They are granted a banking license as Primary Co-operative Banks under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
Current status: India has 1,457 UCBs as of March 31, 2025.
Regulatory Framework of UCBs (Dual Control System)
Reserve Bank of India (RBI): Since 1966, RBI regulates banking functions, including licensing, capital adequacy, loan policies, prudential norms, and financial stability.
Registrar of Co-operative Societies (RCS): State or Central Governments regulate administrative and management aspects of UCBs through the RCS.
Dual Control refers to the shared regulatory responsibility between RBI and RCS over UCBs.
Tiered Regulatory Structure: RBI classifies UCBs into four tiers based on deposit size.
This tier-based system enables proportionate regulation and supervision, aligning compliance burden with bank size.
Deflation
Food prices have slipped into deflation at –0.2%.
This marks the first instance of food price deflation since 2014.
About Deflation
Deflation is also known as negative inflation.
Negative inflation refers to a sustained decrease in the general price level of goods and services.
General price level represents the average prices of goods and services across the economy.
Major Causes of Deflation
One major cause of deflation is decreased aggregate demand.
Aggregate demand refers to the total demand for goods and services in an economy.
Another cause of deflation is increased productivity.
Increased productivity means producing more output with the same or fewer inputs, which lowers costs.
Shifts in monetary policy are also identified as a cause of deflation.
Monetary policy refers to actions taken by a central bank to control money supply and credit conditions.
Global Economic Prospects (GEP) Report
The World Bank released the Global Economic Prospects (GEP) report in January 2026.
The Global Economic Prospects report provides an assessment of global economic growth prospects.
The report is published twice a year, specifically in January and June.
Key Highlights of the GEP January 2026 Report
India’s Growth Outlook
The report revised India’s economic growth forecast upward.
India’s growth is projected at 7.2% for the fiscal year 2025–26.
This projection is higher than the 6.3% growth forecast made in June 2025.
Fiscal year 2025–26 refers to the period from April 2025 to March 2026.
One reason for the upward revision is robust local demand.
Local demand refers to domestic consumption and investment within the economy.
Another contributing factor is strong private consumption.
Private consumption represents household spending on goods and services.
Tax reforms are also cited as a factor supporting India’s growth outlook.
Tax reforms refer to policy changes aimed at improving efficiency and compliance in taxation.
Rising real household incomes in rural areas have further supported growth.
Real household income refers to income adjusted for inflation, reflecting actual purchasing power.
Global Trade Outlook
The report projects a slowdown in global trade growth.
Global trade growth is expected to decelerate from 3.4% in 2025.
It is projected to further slow to 2.2% in 2026.
Global trade growth measures the expansion in cross-border exchange of goods and services.
Debt Situation in Emerging Economies
The report highlights record-high government debt levels.
Government debt in Emerging Market and Developing Economies (EMDEs) has reached a critical level.
EMDEs refer to countries with developing financial markets and lower average incomes.
Government debt in EMDEs has climbed to a 55-year high.
This debt level stands at nearly 70% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the total value of goods and services produced in an economy.
Employment and Social Trends 2026 Report
The Employment and Social Trends 2026 Report has been released by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The report provides a global assessment of employment conditions and labour market trends.
Global Unemployment Outlook
The report warns that the global unemployment rate is projected to remain at a historically low level.
The global unemployment rate is estimated at 4.9% in 2026.
This unemployment rate corresponds to approximately 186 million unemployed people worldwide.
Unemployment rate refers to the percentage of the labour force actively seeking but unable to find work.
Key Global Employment Trends
The report highlights that progress in employment quality has stalled globally.
Employment quality refers to job security, wages, working conditions, and social protection.
Between 2015 and 2025, extreme working poverty declined only marginally.
Extreme working poverty fell by 3.1% during this period.
Extreme working poverty refers to workers earning incomes insufficient to meet basic living needs.
Rising Informality of Work
The report projects an increase in informality of work worldwide.
By 2026, 2.1 billion workers globally are expected to be informally employed.
Informal employment refers to work without formal contracts, job security, or social protection.
India-Related Findings
Manufacturing Sector
The report states that India accounts for 3% of the world’s manufacturing output.
Manufacturing output refers to the production of goods using labour, machines, and raw materials.
Renewable Energy Employment
The report highlights growth in jobs in the renewable energy sector.
Renewable energy jobs include employment in solar, wind, bioenergy, and other clean energy sources.
India, along with Japan and South Korea, is making significant headway in increasing renewable energy jobs.
The report notes that demand for green-skilled workers in India exceeds the available supply.
Green-skilled workers are individuals trained in skills required for environmentally sustainable industries.
Co-location and Dark Fibre Issues
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has given in-principle approval to the settlement applications of the National Stock Exchange (NSE).
These settlement applications relate to the co-location and dark fibre matters.
SEBI is India’s market regulator responsible for protecting investor interests and regulating securities markets.
Co-location or Proximity Hosting
Co-location, also known as proximity hosting, is a practice used in stock exchanges.
It involves setting up a broker’s trading servers within the premises of the stock exchange’s data centre.
This facility is provided by the exchange in return for a fee.
The primary advantage of co-location is the reduction in physical distance between brokers and exchange servers.
Reduced distance results in faster access to market infrastructure.
Co-location can lead to preferential access to price feeds and market data.
Price feeds refer to real-time information on buy and sell prices of securities.
Faster access enables quicker execution of trades.
Quicker trade execution can lead to significant trading profits, especially in high-frequency trading.
Dark Fibre
Dark fibres refer to unused or passive optical fibre cables.
These fibres are laid underground or underwater but are not yet activated.
Dark fibres are also not shared on public communication networks.
In financial markets, dark fibres are used for high-speed data transmission.
They convey trading data between two points at very high speeds.
High-speed data transmission provides a competitive advantage in time-sensitive trading environments.
Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) and Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court of India ruled that capital gains arising from Mauritius-based Tiger Global International’s stake sale in Flipkart in 2018 are taxable by Indian authorities.
This ruling prevents taxpayers from claiming benefits solely based on Tax Residency Certificates (TRCs).
What is a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC)?
A Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is an official document issued by the tax authorities of a country.
It certifies that an individual or entity is a tax resident of that country for a specific financial year.
Tax residency refers to the status of being liable to pay taxes in a particular country according to its domestic laws.
TRCs are relevant for Resident Indians, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), and businesses engaged in cross-border transactions.
TRCs are essential for claiming benefits under Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA).
Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)
A DTAA is an agreement between two countries to prevent the same income from being taxed twice.
It ensures that individuals or businesses do not face double taxation on income earned across borders.
TRCs act as proof of tax residency to avail DTAA benefits, such as reduced tax rates or exemptions.
Gig Economy
Major delivery aggregators have agreed to remove the 10-minute delivery deadline for gig workers.
This decision aims to ensure greater safety for gig workers.
The move also seeks to enhance security and overall working conditions for gig workers.
Understanding the Gig Economy
A gig economy is characterized by temporary, contract-based, and freelance jobs.
These jobs differ from permanent employment positions with long-term contracts.
The Code on Social Security, 2020 provides a legal definition of a gig worker.
According to the Code, a gig worker is a person who works outside a traditional employer–employee relationship.
A traditional employer–employee relationship involves formal contracts, fixed wages, and statutory benefits.
Challenges Faced by Gig Workers
Work–life balance is a major challenge faced by gig workers.
Work–life balance refers to the ability to manage professional responsibilities alongside personal life.
Income volatility is another significant challenge in gig work.
Income volatility refers to irregular and unpredictable earnings.
Lack of social security is a key concern for gig workers.
Social security includes benefits such as health insurance, pensions, and accident coverage.
Limited career development opportunities also affect gig workers.
Career development refers to skill advancement and long-term professional growth.
Initiatives for Gig Workers in India
The Code on Social Security, 2020 aims to extend social protection to gig and platform workers.
The Code on Wages, 2019 seeks to ensure minimum wages and timely payment of earnings.
The e-Shram Portal is a national database for unorganised workers, including gig workers.
The e-Shram Portal enables access to social security schemes through worker registration.
The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) provides accidental insurance coverage.
PMSBY offers financial protection in cases of accidental death or disability.
Supreme Court Split Verdict on Corruption Act Amendment
The Supreme Court delivered a split verdict on the constitutionality of Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
The case in question was Centre for Public Interest Litigation v. Union of India.
Section 17A, inserted by the 2018 amendment, mandates prior government sanction to launch an investigation against a public servant under the Act.
Key Aspects of the Judgment
The verdict was split between two justices.
Justice Viswanathan held that Section 17A is constitutionally valid.
He added that the sanction must be decided by the Lokpal or the State Lok Ayukta.
Justice BV Nagarathna ruled that Section 17A violates Article 14 of the Constitution.
She reasoned that it unjustly protects only a certain class of public servants, violating the principle of equality.
The matter has been placed before the Chief Justice of India to constitute an appropriate bench to decide the issue.
About the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
Corruption is defined as the acceptance or solicitation of gratification (other than legal remuneration) by a public servant for performing or not performing an official act.
The Act prescribes penalties with a maximum imprisonment of 5 years.
The Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 was enacted to allow public servants to discharge their duties without fear of harassment or prosecution.
The 2018 amendment also criminalizes offering bribes to foreign public officials.
Other Provisions to Curb Corruption
The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 allows inquiry into corruption allegations against certain public functionaries, including the Prime Minister.
The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Act, 2003 aims to ensure transparency and responsiveness in public administration.
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 provides citizens greater and smoother access to information held by public authorities.
The United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) is a legally binding global treaty against corruption, ratified by India in 2011.
These frameworks collectively strengthen accountability, transparency, and anti-corruption enforcement in India.
Supreme Court Ruling on Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009
The Supreme Court has issued a ruling to ensure that all schools reserve 25% free seats for children from weaker and disadvantaged sections.
This provision is as per Section 12(1)(c) of the RTE Act, 2009.
Key Directions of the Ruling
Central and State Governments are directed to frame and notify rules under Section 38 of the RTE Act.
These rules are to implement Section 12(1)(c) effectively.
Rulemaking must be done in consultation with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).
It must also involve State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCRs) and National/State Advisory Councils.
NCPCR and SCPCRs, constituted under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005, are responsible for reviewing, monitoring, and grievance redressal under the RTE Act.
About the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009
The RTE Act was enacted to give effect to Article 21A of the Constitution, which provides the fundamental right to free and compulsory education for children aged 6–14 years.
Article 51A(k) of the Constitution specifies the fundamental duty of parents to provide educational opportunities for children aged 6–14 years.
Article 45 under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) directs the state to provide early childhood care and education for children below 6 years.
Section 3 of the RTE Act grants the right of every child (6–14 years) to free and compulsory education in a neighbourhood school until completion of elementary education.
Neighbourhood schools are local schools that are geographically accessible to children.
The appropriate government and local authorities have a duty to establish and maintain neighbourhood schools.
Governments and local authorities must also provide infrastructure, teachers, and learning facilities in schools.
Schools are entitled to reimbursement of per-child expenditure by the State to support educational delivery.
Significance of the Ruling
The ruling promotes substantive equality and social integration from early childhood.
It gives enforceable and operational meaning to fraternity, a core constitutional principle.
The ruling reinforces the Common School System envisioned by the Kothari Commission, aiming for inclusive and uniform quality education for all children.
Supreme Court Ruling on Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956
The Supreme Court ruled that a daughter-in-law who becomes a widow after the death of her father-in-law is entitled to claim maintenance from his estate.
This entitlement is under the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956.
About the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956
The purpose of the Act is to codify and standardize legal rules for adoption and maintenance among Hindus.
It replaces various customary practices with a uniform statutory framework.
The Act applies to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. It also covers converts to these religions.
Additionally, it applies to abandoned children who are brought up within these communities.
The Act does not apply to Muslims, Christians, Parsis, or Jews, which are excluded communities.
Operation Pawan and Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF)
The Defence Minister paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka.
This was on the occasion of the 10th Armed Forces Veterans Day.
About Operation Pawan
Operation Pawan was a military operation conducted by the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka.
The operation followed the Indo–Sri Lanka Accord, signed on 29 July 1987.
The IPKF remained deployed in Sri Lanka until March 1990.
It was withdrawn following a change in the Sri Lankan government’s policy.
The Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) refers to the Indian military contingent sent abroad to maintain peace under a bilateral or international agreement.
Voyager 1 Mission
Voyager 1 is expected to become the first human-made object to reach a distance of one light-day from Earth.
A light-day is the distance light travels in 24 hours, which is approximately 16 billion miles.
About Voyager 1
Voyager 1 was launched in 1977 by NASA to fly by Jupiter and Saturn.
It carries several scientific instruments, including the Imaging Science System (ISS) and the Ultraviolet Spectrometer (UVS).
Voyager 1 was the first spacecraft to cross the heliosphere, the boundary where influences from outside our solar system are stronger than those from the Sun.
It is also the first human-made object to venture into interstellar space, which is the region beyond the influence of the Sun’s solar wind.
The mission continues to collect valuable data about the outer reaches of our solar system and beyond.
Ultracold Atoms and Research in India
India has built a strong and growing presence in cold- and ultracold-atom physics, with leading research groups at various institutions.
About Ultracold Atoms
Atoms are always in motion, and their motion is experienced as temperature.
By cooling atoms to temperatures just a tiny fraction of a degree above absolute zero (-273°C), their motion can be slowed enough to observe their quantum behavior directly.
At these nanokelvin temperatures, atoms stop behaving like tiny billiard balls and start acting like waves.
De Broglie waves are the wave-like behavior of particles, as per quantum physics, and every particle has a de Broglie wavelength depending on its mass and velocity.
When atoms are cold enough, their de Broglie waves grow and begin to overlap with each other.
This overlap creates a Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC), a state of matter where many atoms behave as one unified quantum object.
Berkeley Earth’s Annual Temperature Report finds 2025 warmest La Nina year on record
Berkeley Earth’s Annual Temperature Report finds that 2025 is the warmest La Nina year on record.
This is significant because La Nina is the "cooler" phase of the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which typically has a cooling effect on global temperatures.
About El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO):
ENSO is a recurring natural phenomenon characterized by fluctuating ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific.
ENSO is also coupled with changes in the atmosphere, influencing global weather patterns.
The oceanic components of ENSO are El Nino and La Nina, while the Southern Oscillation is the atmospheric counterpart of the system.
La Nina Phase:
La Nina is the cold phase of ENSO and occurs when trade winds strengthen.
Strengthened trade winds push warm water west toward Asia and allow cold water to rise in the eastern Pacific.
Impact of La Nina on India:
During La Nina, the monsoon is generally beneficial, bringing normal to above-normal rainfall that supports agriculture.
La Nina triggers colder-than-normal winters and frequent cold waves in northern India.
It also increases the risk of floods and severe cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal.
El Nino Phase:
El Nino is the warm phase of ENSO and occurs when trade winds weaken.
Weakened trade winds allow warm water to move toward South America.
Impact of El Nino on India:
During El Nino, the southwest monsoon is typically weakened, often leading to below-normal rainfall or droughts.
It suppresses yields for summer crops like rice, sugarcane, and oilseeds, which can increase food prices.
Wildfires as a Growing Disaster Risk
According to the 2025 Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction (GAR 2025), global wildfires caused about USD 106 billion in total economic losses.
A wildfire is any unplanned and uncontrolled vegetation fire that, regardless of ignition source, may negatively affect social, economic, or environmental values, and require suppression response or other action according to agency policy (FAO).
Wildfires also play a natural ecological role by linking land ecosystems with the atmosphere.
They help in recycling nutrients, supporting soil health, and aiding plant regeneration.
However, wildfires can have adverse environmental impacts, including massive CO2 emissions, especially from peatlands and rainforests.
They create a climate feedback loop, where fires cause warming, which then increases the likelihood of more fires.
Wildfires also contribute to loss of biodiversity by destroying habitats for many species.
On the human and social side, wildfires can cause respiratory and cardiovascular disorders.
They can also lead to displacement of communities living near forests and grasslands.
Reasons Why Wildfires Are Increasing
Climate change is driving longer and more intense fire seasons due to hotter temperatures, prolonged droughts, and dry lightning.
Land-use changes, such as deforestation, monoculture plantations, and peatland drainage, increase wildfire risk.
Human activities, including accidental or intentional fires during agricultural burning or land clearing, can rapidly turn into wildfires under extreme weather.
Fuel availability, meaning large amounts of dry, fine, and continuous fuels like grasses, leaves, and shrubs, allows fires to spread rapidly and reduces the effectiveness of suppression efforts.
Initiatives Taken in India
India launched the National Action Plan on Forest Fires (NAPFF), which uses a preventive, community-based, technology-supported, and institutionally coordinated approach.
The Forest Fire Alert System (FFAS) is generated by the Forest Survey of India using Near Real-Time fire hotspot data.
The Van Agni Geo-portal acts as a single point of information on forest fires in India.
Community participation is promoted through Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and Eco-Development Committees (EDCs).
10 Years of Startup India Initiative
The Startup India Initiative is a flagship programme aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and building a robust startup ecosystem.
The initiative seeks to transform India from a country of job seekers into a country of job creators.
It was launched on 16th January, 2016, which is celebrated annually as National Startup Day.
The nodal agency for the initiative is the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
DPIIT functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Three Pillars of the Startup India Initiative
The first pillar is Simplification and Handholding, which focuses on easier compliance for startups.
It also provides regulatory support, patent facilitation, and market access.
The second pillar is Funding Support, which aims to improve access to capital.
Funding support includes tax exemptions for eligible startups.
It also includes the Startup Seed Fund Scheme for early-stage startups.
The Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) supports startups through SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds.
The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) enables collateral-free loans.
The third pillar is Incubation and Industry–Academia Partnership, which strengthens innovation ecosystems.
An example is the MAARG Portal, which stands for Mentorship, Advisory, Assistance, Resilience, and Growth.
Key Enablers and Digital Platforms
The Startup India Hub acts as a single-point support platform for startups.
The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) facilitates startup discovery and networking.
The SIPP Scheme (Startups Intellectual Property Protection Scheme) supports fast-tracking of patent applications.
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) include patents, trademarks, and designs that protect innovations.
Decadal Achievements (2016–2026)
India has emerged as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem.
Around 2.09 lakh startups have been recognized by DPIIT between 2016 and 2025.
India is home to more than 120 unicorns.
A unicorn is a privately held startup valued at over USD 1 billion.
These unicorns have a combined valuation exceeding USD 350 billion.
The startup ecosystem has generated over 21 lakh jobs.
Job creation has occurred with a significant multiplier effect across sectors.
Around 45% of recognized startups have at least one woman director or partner.
Nearly 50% of startups are based in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, indicating regional inclusion.
Other Schemes Promoting the Startup Ecosystem
The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) promotes innovation and entrepreneurship through incubators and tinkering labs.
GENESIS (Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups) supports deep-tech and innovation-driven startups.
NIDHI (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations) strengthens technology-based startup ecosystems.
ASPIRE (A Scheme for Promotion of Innovation, Rural Industries and Entrepreneurship) focuses on entrepreneurship in rural and agro-based industries.
‘Achieving Efficiencies in MSME Sector through Convergence of Schemes’ Report
The report was released by NITI Aayog and provides a comprehensive understanding of how convergence can build a coherent, responsive, and impactful policy ecosystem.
Convergence of schemes refers to integrating multiple government programs to avoid overlap, reduce inefficiencies, and improve outcomes for beneficiaries.
Need for Convergence of Schemes
Currently, the Ministry of MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) administers 18 schemes with overlapping objectives and fragmented implementation across ministries, leading to duplication and inefficiencies.
Convergence helps in better translation of resources into outcomes, reduces confusion, and simplifies access for beneficiaries.
Two-Pronged Approach to Convergence as Suggested by the Report
Information convergence involves integrating government-generated data at central and state levels to improve coordination and informed decision-making.
An example of information convergence is PM Gati Shakti, which integrates 16 Central Ministries.
Process convergence involves merging similar schemes, combining common components, and fostering collaboration across ministries and states.
An example of process convergence is the unified central sector scheme Vigyan Dhara under the Department of Science and Technology, which acts as an umbrella scheme covering three broad components.
Key Recommendations to Facilitate Convergence
Convergence of Cluster Development Schemes: Integrate the Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) with the MSE–Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP).
Convergence of Skill Development Programmes: Rationalize skill initiatives into a three-tier structure covering entrepreneurship and business skills, MSME technical skills, and training for rural and women artisans.
Other Recommendations: Implement an AI-powered centralized digital platform integrating schemes; large flagship programs like Prime Minister's Employment Generation Program and PM Vishwakarma are to remain independent.
About MSMEs
MSMEs are classified based on investment and turnover as per the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, 2006.
Revised Classification Criteria for MSMEs:
Category | Investment | Annual Turnover |
Micro Enterprises | Up to ₹2.5 crore (Earlier ₹1 crore) | Up to ₹10 crore (Earlier ₹25 crore) |
Small Enterprises | Up to ₹25 crore (Earlier ₹10 crore) | Up to ₹100 crore (Earlier ₹50 crore) |
Medium Enterprises | Up to ₹125 crore (Earlier ₹50 crore) | Up to ₹500 crore (Earlier ₹250 crore) |
MSMEs are significant for India’s economy, employing around 62% of the workforce after agriculture.
They account for 45% of the country’s exports and contribute 30% to India’s GDP.
National Campaign on Entrepreneurship by Ministry of Rural Development
The campaign aims to train 50,000 Community Resource Persons (CRPs) on enterprise promotion.
It also targets 50 lakh Self-Help Group (SHG) members under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
Community Resource Persons (CRPs) are local volunteers or trained individuals who facilitate skill development and livelihood promotion at the grassroots level.
Importance of Rural Entrepreneurship
Women Empowerment: Closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship could potentially boost global GDP by USD 1.5 trillion.
Income Diversification: Women are moving beyond traditional farm labor into non-farm activities, which now generate two-thirds of rural income.
Poverty Alleviation and Social Mobility: Around 65% of rural SHG members have moved upwards in relative income between FY19 and FY24 according to an SBI report.
Community Resilience: Women-led enterprises foster local employment, helping reduce rural-urban migration and unplanned urbanization.
Government Steps to Promote Rural Entrepreneurship
Financial Assistance: The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana provides collateral-free loans to small entrepreneurs.
Targeted Schemes: The Udyogini Scheme and Mahila Coir Yojana provide financial aid, training, and subsidized equipment, specifically for women.
Skill Development Programmes: Micro Entrepreneurship Development Programmes (MEDPs) and Livelihood & Enterprise Development Programmes (LEDPs) are run by NABARD to build entrepreneurial skills.
Incubation and Training: The ASPIRE scheme by the Ministry of MSME fosters entrepreneurship and innovation in rural areas, and has trained over 1.16 lakh beneficiaries.
Lakhpati Didi Initiative: Under DAY-NRLM, the government aims to enable 3 crore SHG members to earn at least ₹1 lakh annually through enterprise promotion.
About DAY-NRLM
DAY-NRLM is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD).
It was launched as a restructured version of the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY) and renamed as DAY-NRLM in 2016.
Its main aim is poverty alleviation and promotion of rural livelihoods.
Coverage: The program targets 7 crore rural poor households.
Beneficiaries: Primarily women-centric Self Help Groups (SHGs) and federated institutions.
Key Objective: Facilitate access to rights, entitlements, public services, finance, and skill development for rural households.
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are small voluntary groups of 10–20 members, usually women, who collectively save, borrow, and engage in income-generating activities.
NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) issued guidelines for the NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025.
PFRDA is the statutory regulator responsible for regulating and developing India’s pension sector.
About the NPS Vatsalya Scheme, 2025
The nodal ministry for the scheme is the Union Ministry of Finance.
The scheme is regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
The core objective of the scheme is to inculcate early and disciplined long-term savings habits among children.
The scheme aims to ensure financial security and pension preparedness from a young age.
Key Features of the Scheme
Eligibility: The scheme is open to all Indian citizens, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), below 18 years of age.
NRI refers to an Indian citizen residing outside India, while OCI denotes a foreign national of Indian origin with lifelong visa rights.
Beneficiary: The minor child is the sole beneficiary under the scheme.
Account Operation: The account is opened in the name of the minor and is operated by the parent or legal guardian.
Minimum Contribution: The scheme requires a minimum initial contribution of ₹250.
It also mandates a minimum annual contribution of ₹250.
There is no maximum limit on contributions, allowing flexibility in long-term savings.
Womaniya Initiative
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) marked seven years of the Womaniya Initiative.
GeM was launched in 2016 to promote transparent, inclusive, and efficient public procurement.
Public procurement refers to the process by which government entities purchase goods and services.
About the Womaniya Initiative
The Womaniya Initiative is a flagship programme of GeM aimed at enhancing the participation of women entrepreneurs and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in government procurement.
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are small, voluntary groups, mainly of women, that engage in savings and income-generating activities.
The initiative provides a direct, transparent, and fully digital platform for sellers.
It eliminates intermediaries, which reduces entry barriers for women-led enterprises.
Key Achievements of the Initiative
More than two lakh women-led Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are registered on the GeM portal.
MSEs refer to enterprises classified under the Micro and Small category of MSMEs based on investment and turnover criteria.
These women-led enterprises have secured public procurement orders exceeding ₹80,000 crore.
This accounts for 4.7% of GeM’s total order value.
The achievement data is valid as on 14th January, 2026.
Harvest Festivals in India
Traditional harvest festivals are currently being celebrated in different parts of India.
These festivals are celebrated under different names and customs across regions.
They mark the change of seasons in the agricultural calendar.
They also signify the Sun’s northward journey, known as Uttarayana.
Uttarayana refers to the period when the Sun appears to move northward, symbolizing longer days and agricultural prosperity.
These festivals also celebrate the harvest of crops, reflecting gratitude to nature and farmers.
Traditional Harvest Festivals Across India
Makar Sankranti, celebrated in Maharashtra, marks the Sun’s transition into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara).
This astronomical transition is associated with Uttarayana and increasing daylight hours.
Uttarayana, celebrated in Gujarat and Rajasthan, is widely known for kite flying.
Kite flying commemorates the Sun’s rise and is observed as a day of joy and celebration.
Pongal, celebrated in Tamil Nadu, is a four-day harvest festival.
The four days include Bhogi, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal.
During Pongal, people prepare a traditional rice and lentil dish called Pongal as an offering of gratitude.
Lohri, celebrated in Punjab, is observed one day before Makar Sankranti.
It marks the harvest of Rabi crops, which are winter-sown crops harvested in spring.
Lohri is celebrated around bonfires with folk songs, Bhangra, and Gidda.
Magh Bihu, celebrated in Assam, marks the end of the harvest season.
It is observed with community feasts and traditional games.
Bonfires lit during the festival are known as Meji.
Kanuma, celebrated in Telangana, is a festival that expresses thankfulness and admiration toward the agriculture sector.
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