Current Affairs 12 January 2026: Today's National and International News for Competitive Exams
Staying updated with today's current affairs is essential for cracking competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, banking, railways, and state PSC. The 11 January 2026 current affairs cover critical developments in national politics, international relations, economy, science, and sports that frequently appear in exam questions.
India – National Current Affairs
1. ISRO Successfully Launches PSLV-C62 Mission
The Indian Space Research Organisation launched PSLV-C62 on 12 January 2026 at 10:17 AM from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. The 64th PSLV flight carried the EOS-N1 earth observation satellite (developed by DRDO for strategic purposes) along with 15 co-passenger satellites from India and international customers. This marks ISRO's first launch of 2026. Exam importance: PSLV is known as India's "Workhorse" and has launched Chandrayaan-1, Mangalyaan, and Aditya-L1.
2. Enforcement Directorate Moves Supreme Court Against West Bengal CM
The Enforcement Directorate filed a petition in the Supreme Court alleging that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee obstructed its investigation during raids at the I-PAC (Indian Political Action Committee) office and director Pratik Jain's residence in connection with the coal pilferage scam. The ED claims that physical documents and electronic devices were taken away during the January 8 raid. The West Bengal government filed a caveat seeking no adverse order without hearing. Exam importance: Know Article 32 (writ jurisdiction of Supreme Court) and PMLA Act provisions.
3. Afghanistan Appoints First Taliban Envoy to India
Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor arrived in New Delhi to assume charge as Afghanistan's Charge d'Affaires, marking the first Taliban-appointed diplomat to India's embassy since the Taliban takeover in 2021. He previously served as Director General of the First Political Department at Afghanistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. India has not officially recognized the Taliban government but continues humanitarian aid. Exam importance: India-Afghanistan bilateral relations, Taliban government status, Chabahar Port connectivity.
4. Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference 2026 in Rajkot
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference for Saurashtra-Kutch region on 11-12 January in Rajkot. The summit focuses on renewable energy, sustainability, and Gujarat's target of 100 GW renewable energy capacity aligned with India's 'Panchamrit' commitments announced at COP26. Key discussions include Green Hydrogen Policy 2025, nuclear energy roadmap, and climate-resilient energy systems. Exam importance: India's net-zero 2070 target, 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
5. Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra Appointed Supreme Court Judge
Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra was appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court on 8 January 2026, following Justice Guhanathan Narendra's retirement on 9 January 2026. He previously served as a judge of the Allahabad High Court since April 2013 and is scheduled to retire on 8 October 2026. Exam importance: Supreme Court Collegium system, judicial appointments process.
6. RBI Takes Over Delhi Government's Banking Operations
From 9 January 2026, the Reserve Bank of India assumed control of general banking operations and rupee public debt management of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) under Section 21A of the RBI Act, 1934. This includes managing government accounts, cash balances, and capital's rupee-denominated public debt. Exam importance: RBI's functions as banker to governments, fiscal-monetary coordination.
7. President Murmu's Biography Released
A biography of President Droupadi Murmu was released, with a sanitation worker performing the ceremonial release to symbolize social equality and dignity of labour. The book highlights the President's journey from tribal background to becoming India's first tribal woman President. Exam importance: Constitutional posts, representation of tribal communities.
8. Prasar Bharati Launches "Creator's Corner" on DD News
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched "Creator's Corner" on DD News, airing Monday-Friday at 7 PM. The initiative provides a platform for digital content creators from diverse linguistic backgrounds across India, supporting the Orange Economy (creative economy). It aligns with the WAVES platform that has enabled opportunities for one crore creators contributing ₹5,000 crore to economic activity. Exam importance: Digital India initiatives, creative economy development.
9. Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 Crosses 4 Crore Registrations
Prime Minister Modi's annual interactive program with students, Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, crossed 4 crore registrations, setting a new participation milestone. The program addresses exam stress and mental health among students. Exam importance: Government initiatives for student welfare and education.
10. India Post Introduces Speed Post 24 and Speed Post 48 Services
India Post launched Speed Post 24 (24-hour delivery) and Speed Post 48 (48-hour delivery) services nationwide, enhancing logistics and connectivity. The service aims to compete with private courier services and improve last-mile delivery. Exam importance: Postal reforms, government initiatives for efficient service delivery.
International Current Affairs
1. Iran Protests Enter Third Week; Death Toll Exceeds 190
Anti-government protests in Iran crossed two weeks on 11 January 2026, with confirmed deaths exceeding 192 according to Iran Human Rights (Norway-based). Over 2,600 protesters have been detained. Iran imposed internet and international phone blackouts since January 8. Tehran warned the US military and Israel would be "legitimate targets" if America strikes. Protests began December 28 over Iranian rial collapse (1.4 million rials to 1 USD). Exam importance: Iran's geopolitical position, Middle East tensions, human rights issues.
2. US Military Intervention in Venezuela
President Donald Trump conducted "large scale strikes" in Venezuela, leading to the capture of Nicolas Maduro in early January 2026. Venezuela's new leadership now faces questions about governance and US influence. Four Venezuelan tankers returned home despite US blockade. Trump seeks $100 billion for Venezuelan oil development. Exam importance: US foreign policy, regime change operations, oil geopolitics.
3. Trump Renews Greenland Acquisition Push
US President Donald Trump reiterated intentions to acquire Greenland, raising NATO concerns. Several world leaders declared Greenland must be protected collectively through NATO. A Greenland MP called US interest a "wrong move" amid Arctic policy tensions. Canada's former NATO ambassador and experts warn this could lead to NATO's collapse. Exam importance: Arctic geopolitics, territorial sovereignty, NATO alliance dynamics.
4. Myanmar Conducts Second Phase of General Elections
Myanmar held the second phase of multi-party democratic general elections on 11 January 2026, with polling across 100 townships. A final round is scheduled for 25 January, though 65 townships will not participate due to ongoing conflict. Exam importance: Democracy in Southeast Asia, Myanmar political situation.
5. Winter Olympics 2026 Construction Site Death in Italy
A guard died during a freezing overnight shift at a 2026 Winter Olympic venue construction site in Cortina, Italy, on 8 January 2026. Italian authorities confirmed the incident raised safety concerns. Exam importance: Winter Olympics 2026 venue (Italy), international sporting events.
6. Snowstorms Disrupt European Travel
Over 1,000 passengers were stranded overnight at Amsterdam's international airport on 8 January 2026 as snow and ice grounded hundreds of flights across Europe. Weather disruptions affected multiple countries. Exam importance: Climate impacts on infrastructure, European geography.
7. China Criticizes European Union's Conflict-Provoking Stance
Yan Xuetong, honorary rector of China's Tsinghua University, criticized the EU for adopting an "increasingly reckless and conflict-provoking stance" at the Beijing World Peace Forum. He warned Europe risks conflicts with more nations if it doesn't alter course. Exam importance: China-EU relations, multipolar world order.
8. South Africa Wildfires Burn Over 100,000 Hectares
Wildfires continued raging across South Africa's Western and Eastern Cape provinces on 11 January 2026, with over 100,000 hectares burned in Western Cape. Further evacuations remain underway. Exam importance: Climate change impacts, African geography, environmental disasters.
Economy & Banking
1. RBI Announces ₹1.89 Lakh Crore Liquidity Infusion
The Reserve Bank of India announced measures to infuse ₹1.89 lakh crore (US$ 22.30 billion) liquidity through Open Market Operations (OMOs) and will conduct a USD/INR Buy/Sell Swap auction of US$ 10 billion on 13 January 2026. System liquidity currently stands at a deficit of ₹54,851.83 crore. The move aims to strengthen liquidity following advance tax and GST payments. Exam importance: OMO operations, liquidity management, RBI monetary policy tools.
2. New Banking Rules from January 1, 2026
RBI implemented stricter banking regulations effective January 1, 2026, including weekly credit score updates (previously 15-day cycle), mandatory PAN-Aadhaar linking, enhanced UPI transaction security checks, and potential closure of inactive, dormant, and zero-balance accounts. Banks must provide 25 free cheque leaves and ATM cards for BSBD accounts without annual charges. Exam importance: Financial inclusion, KYC norms, digital payment security.
3. Digital Banking Guidelines Effective January 2026
Only banks approved under new RBI digital banking guidelines can provide internet, mobile, USSD, and SMS services from January 1, 2026. New liquidity norms for digital deposits take effect April 1, 2026, requiring higher outflow assumptions and stricter liquidity buffers for banks with large digital deposit bases. Exam importance: Digital banking regulations, liquidity management.
4. India's Banking Sector Achieves Record Low NPAs
RBI's Financial Stability Report (December 2025) shows Gross Non-Performing Assets ratio declined to 2.1% in September 2025 from 11.2% peak in 2017-18. Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio remains strong: public sector banks at 16%, private banks at 18.1%. However, unsecured loans emerge as vulnerability with 76% of slippages for private banks. Exam importance: NPA resolution, Twin Balance Sheet problem, IBC framework.
5. Stock Markets Decline for Fifth Consecutive Session
Indian stock markets declined for the fifth consecutive trading session as of 11 January 2026. Indian rupee slipped 26 paise to close at ₹90.16 against USD. Investors favored Gold ETFs over equities in December 2025. Exam importance: Stock market indicators, currency depreciation factors.
6. Warburg Pincus Invests ₹960 Crore in Lemon Tree Hotels
Private equity firm Warburg Pincus announced plans for ₹960 crore investment in Lemon Tree Hotels' subsidiary Fleur. The deal signals continued foreign investment in India's hospitality sector. Exam importance: FDI in services sector, private equity investments.
Science, Technology & Environment
1. ISRO's PSLV-C62 Carries 16 Satellites
The PSLV-C62 mission carried EOS-N1 (also called Anvesha) primary earth observation satellite built jointly by Thailand and UK, plus 15 co-passenger satellites from India, Brazil, Nepal, Thailand, Spain, France, and UK. The mission demonstrates Kestrel Initial Technology Demonstrator (KID), a small-scale re-entry vehicle prototype from Spanish startup Orbital Paradigm. Exam importance: Space technology, international space cooperation, re-entry vehicle technology.
2. PARAM Shakti Supercomputer Installed at IIT Madras
The 37th supercomputer under the National Supercomputing Mission, PARAM Shakti, was installed at IIT Madras with capacity matching IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi installations. This strengthens India's computational research capabilities. Exam importance: National Supercomputing Mission, research infrastructure development.
3. OrbitAID's AayulSAT Satellite Refueling Experiment
Bengaluru-based startup OrbitAID Aerospace's AayulSAT, an on-orbit satellite refueling experiment, was launched aboard PSLV-C62. This technology aims to extend satellite lifespan by providing "space petrol pumps" in orbit. Exam importance: Space technology innovations, startup ecosystem in space sector.
4. Russia Experiences Heaviest Snowfall in 56 Years
Moscow recorded the heaviest snowfall in 56 years on 10 January 2026, with 42% of monthly average precipitation in just 24 hours. Severe blizzards with strong winds are expected across areas along the Sea of Japan through Monday. Exam importance: Climate patterns, extreme weather events.
5. 7.1-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Indonesia's Talaud Islands
A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck off Indonesia's Talaud Islands on 11 January 2026, reported by the country's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The region is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Exam importance: Seismic zones, disaster management, Indonesian geography.
Sports & Important Days
1. India Defeats New Zealand in 1st ODI
India won the first ODI against New Zealand by 4 wickets at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara, on 11 January 2026, chasing down 301 runs. KL Rahul hit the winning six. New Zealand posted 300/8 with half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell (84), Devon Conway (56), and Henry Nicholls (62). Match started at 1:30 PM IST. Exam importance: India-New Zealand ODI series, new cricket venue (Vadodara's first men's ODI).
2. Virat Kohli Becomes Second-Highest International Run-Scorer
Virat Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara's 28,016 runs to become the second-highest run-getter in international cricket on 11 January 2026. He also became the fastest to reach 28,000 international runs, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar. Only Sachin Tendulkar (34,357 runs) remains ahead of Kohli. Exam importance: Cricket records, Indian sports achievements.
3. Lovlina Borgohain and Nikhat Zareen Win National Boxing Championships
Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain won the women's 75kg category, while Nikhat Zareen claimed the 52kg title at the National Boxing Championships 2026 in Noida on 10 January 2026. Exam importance: Indian boxing achievements, women in sports.
4. FIFA World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour in India
Union Minister for Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and former Brazilian footballer Gilberto D'Silva unveiled the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy on 10 January 2026, beginning its three-day tour of India. The trophy tour promotes football ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Exam importance: FIFA World Cup 2026 venues (USA, Canada, Mexico), sports diplomacy.
5. PV Sindhu Loses Malaysia Open Semi-Final
Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu lost the Malaysia Open Super 1000 semi-final to China's Wang Zhi Yi 16-21, 15-21 on 10 January 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, ending India's campaign. Exam importance: Indian badminton, international tournaments.
6. Women's Premier League 2026 Begins
The fourth edition of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 commenced on 9 January 2026, running until 5 February 2026, featuring 22 T20 matches. Gujarat Giants defeated UP Warriorz by 10 runs in the second match. Exam importance: Women's cricket development, franchise-based leagues.
7. World Hindi Day Observed on January 10
World Hindi Day was observed on 10 January 2026, marking the anniversary of the first World Hindi Conference organized in Nagpur on 10 January 1975 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The day promotes Hindi language globally. Exam importance: Official languages of India (Article 343), language promotion initiatives.
8. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Observed on January 9
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention was held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from 8-10 January 2026, with theme "Diaspora's contribution to a Viksit Bharat." The day commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return from South Africa to India in 1915. Observed biennially since 2015 (previously annual from 2003-2015). Exam importance: Indian diaspora contributions, government initiatives for NRIs.
Quick Revision Points for MCQs
- ISRO's PSLV-C62 launched on 12 January 2026 at 10:17 AM from Sriharikota – 64th PSLV flight with EOS-N1 and 15 co-passengers
- Enforcement Directorate moved Supreme Court against West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee over I-PAC raid obstruction allegations
- Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor became Afghanistan's first Taliban-appointed envoy to India since 2021 takeover
- Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra appointed Supreme Court judge on 8 January 2026; Justice Guhanathan Narendra retired
- RBI to infuse ₹1.89 lakh crore liquidity through OMOs and $10 billion USD/INR swap on 13 January 2026
- Iran protests death toll exceeds 192; started 28 December over rial collapse (1.4 million to 1 USD)
- Virat Kohli became second-highest international run-scorer (28,000+), surpassing Kumar Sangakkara
- World Hindi Day – 10 January (commemorates 1975 Nagpur conference); Pravasi Bharatiya Divas – 9 January (Gandhi's return 1915)
- Banking NPA ratio declined to 2.1% (September 2025) from 11.2% peak (2017-18) per RBI Financial Stability Report
- Vibrant Gujarat Conference 11-12 January in Rajkot focusing on 100 GW renewable energy target
- Indian rupee closed at ₹90.16 per USD on 11 January 2026 (26 paise depreciation)
- FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy three-day India tour started 10 January; World Cup in USA, Canada, Mexico
Note: This article is prepared for educational purposes to help aspirants prepare for competitive examinations. All information is sourced from authentic news agencies and government announcements.
