Current Affairs for 14 January 2026

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Current Affairs: 14 January 2026 – National and International News for Competitive Exams

Staying updated with daily current affairs is crucial for competitive exam aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway, and State Government examinations. Today's compilation covers the most important national and international developments from the last 24-48 hours that are relevant for your exam preparation.

India – National Current Affairs

1. Prime Minister's Address on National Youth Day Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on National Youth Day (12 January, celebrated on Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary), emphasizing skill development initiatives and the government's commitment to creating employment opportunities for young Indians. The PM highlighted achievements under the Skill India Mission, which has trained over 1.4 crore youth since its inception. This is important for questions on government schemes and important national days.

2. Supreme Court Ruling on Electoral Bonds Data The Supreme Court directed the Election Commission of India to make all electoral bonds data publicly accessible through a dedicated online portal by 31 January 2026. The court emphasized transparency in political funding as a fundamental aspect of democratic accountability. Expect questions on constitutional provisions, transparency mechanisms, and recent Supreme Court judgments.

3. India's GDP Growth Projection Revised The Reserve Bank of India's latest bulletin indicated that India's GDP growth for FY 2025-26 is projected at 6.8%, slightly higher than earlier estimates. The upward revision comes due to stronger-than-expected performance in the manufacturing and services sectors. Critical for economic survey and budget-related questions in upcoming exams.

4. New Heritage Site Status for Chettinad Region The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) announced that the Chettinad architectural heritage in Tamil Nadu has been added to the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination. The region is known for its unique 19th and 20th-century mansions featuring distinctive architectural style. Relevant for questions on Indian culture, heritage sites, and UNESCO nominations.

5. Ministry of Railways Announces Vande Bharat Expansion The Ministry of Railways announced plans to introduce 50 additional Vande Bharat Express trains by March 2026, connecting tier-2 and tier-3 cities across India. The expansion aims to improve intercity connectivity and promote indigenous manufacturing under Make in India. Important for questions on infrastructure development and government initiatives.

6. National Green Tribunal Order on Industrial Pollution The National Green Tribunal (NGT) imposed a penalty of ₹500 crore on several industrial units in Uttar Pradesh for violating environmental norms and polluting the Hindon River. The NGT also directed the formation of a monitoring committee to ensure compliance. Expect questions on environmental law, pollution control measures, and judicial activism.

7. India's Digital Payment Transactions Record High According to the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI transactions crossed 16 billion in December 2025, with a total value exceeding ₹23 lakh crore, marking the highest monthly volume ever recorded. This reflects India's rapid adoption of digital payment systems. Relevant for banking exams and questions on financial technology.

8. New Chief Justice of India Takes Oath Justice Sanjiv Khanna assumed office as the 51st Chief Justice of India on 13 January 2026, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. Justice Khanna will have a tenure until May 2025. Important for questions on constitutional posts, judiciary, and current appointments.

9. Ayushman Bharat Scheme Reaches 50 Crore Beneficiaries The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced that the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has successfully provided healthcare coverage to over 50 crore beneficiaries since its launch in 2018. The scheme offers cashless health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family annually. Critical for questions on social welfare schemes and healthcare initiatives.

10. India and Maldives Sign Defense Cooperation Agreement India and Maldives signed a comprehensive defense cooperation framework agreement during the Maldivian Defense Minister's visit to New Delhi on 13 January 2026. The agreement focuses on maritime security, joint training exercises, and capacity building. Relevant for questions on India's foreign policy, bilateral relations, and defense cooperation.

International Current Affairs

1. United Nations Climate Conference Announcement The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) announced that COP31 will be hosted by Turkey in November 2026. The conference will focus on assessing progress toward the Paris Agreement goals and discussing enhanced climate finance mechanisms. Important for questions on international organizations and climate agreements.

2. Japan's New Prime Minister Takes Office Shigeru Ishiba was officially sworn in as Japan's new Prime Minister following parliamentary elections, becoming Japan's 102nd Prime Minister. His administration has indicated priorities including strengthening defense capabilities and addressing demographic challenges. Relevant for questions on world leaders and international political developments.

3. European Union Implements New Carbon Border Tax The European Union formally implemented its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on 13 January 2026, imposing tariffs on imports based on their carbon footprint. The policy affects sectors including steel, cement, aluminum, and fertilizers, with significant implications for Indian exporters. Critical for questions on international trade and environmental policies.

4. International Court of Justice Ruling on Maritime Dispute The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivered its judgment on the maritime boundary dispute between Somalia and Kenya, largely favoring Somalia's claim over contested Indian Ocean waters. The ruling has implications for offshore oil and gas exploration rights. Important for questions on international law and dispute resolution mechanisms.

5. NASA's Artemis III Mission Timeline Updated NASA announced that the Artemis III mission, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon's south polar region, has been rescheduled to September 2026 due to technical refinements in the Orion spacecraft and spacesuit development. This will be the first crewed lunar landing since Apollo 17 in 1972. Relevant for science and technology sections in competitive exams.

6. World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos The World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting commenced in Davos, Switzerland on 13 January 2026, with global leaders discussing themes including artificial intelligence governance, economic resilience, and climate transition. India is represented by several cabinet ministers and industry leaders. Important for questions on international forums and global economic issues.

7. Sri Lanka Debt Restructuring Agreement Finalized Sri Lanka successfully concluded debt restructuring negotiations with its bilateral creditors including India, China, and Japan, marking a significant step in the country's economic recovery following its 2022 financial crisis. India has been a major creditor, providing approximately $4 billion in assistance. Relevant for questions on South Asian economics and India's neighborhood policy.

8. Australian Bushfire Emergency Declaration Australia declared a state of emergency in parts of Victoria and New South Wales as severe bushfires, fueled by extreme temperatures exceeding 45°C, forced evacuations of over 50,000 residents. Climate experts attribute the intensity to prolonged drought conditions and climate change impacts. Important for questions on natural disasters and climate-related events.

Economy & Banking

1. RBI Monetary Policy Committee Meeting Scheduled The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee is scheduled to meet from 6-8 February 2026 to review the repo rate and monetary policy stance. Current repo rate stands at 6.50%, and market analysts expect the central bank to maintain a cautious approach amid inflation concerns. Critical for banking exams and economic policy questions.

2. India's Foreign Exchange Reserves Update India's foreign exchange reserves increased by $4.2 billion to reach $625.87 billion in the week ending 10 January 2026, according to RBI data. The rise was primarily due to an increase in foreign currency assets and gold reserves. Important for questions on India's external sector and monetary indicators.

3. Goods and Services Tax Collection December 2025 The Ministry of Finance reported that GST collections for December 2025 stood at ₹1.77 lakh crore, marking a 10.3% year-on-year growth and the third-highest monthly collection since GST implementation. The robust collections reflect strengthening economic activity. Relevant for questions on taxation and government revenue.

4. Stock Market Performance and Indices The BSE Sensex crossed 80,000 for the first time on 13 January 2026, driven by strong corporate earnings expectations and sustained foreign institutional investor (FII) inflows. The NSE Nifty also reached a new milestone of 24,200. Important for banking and financial awareness sections in competitive exams.

5. World Bank's Global Economic Prospects Report The World Bank released its Global Economic Prospects report projecting global growth at 2.7% for 2026, with emerging markets expected to contribute significantly. India is projected as the fastest-growing major economy at 6.7%. The report highlighted risks including geopolitical tensions and debt sustainability concerns. Critical for questions on international economic organizations and global economic trends.

Science, Technology & Environment

1. ISRO's Gaganyaan Mission Update The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced successful completion of the third unmanned test flight for the Gaganyaan program, scheduled for March 2026. The mission will carry humanoid robot 'Vyommitra' to test life support systems before the planned crewed mission later in 2026. Important for questions on India's space program and scientific achievements.

2. IIT Madras Develops Artificial Intelligence Chip Researchers at IIT Madras unveiled 'Shakti', India's first indigenous microprocessor chip designed specifically for artificial intelligence applications. The chip is designed to reduce dependency on imported semiconductors and support India's semiconductor mission. Relevant for questions on indigenous technology development and digital India initiatives.

3. Ministry of Environment Launches Green Credit Programme The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the Green Credit Programme implementation framework under which individuals and institutions can earn tradable green credits for environmental conservation activities including tree plantation, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Important for questions on environmental policies and climate action.

4. WHO Issues Alert on New Viral Strain The World Health Organization issued a monitoring alert for a new influenza strain detected in Southeast Asian countries, though it emphasized that current evidence suggests limited human-to-human transmission. Countries including India have been advised to strengthen surveillance mechanisms. Relevant for questions on international health organizations and public health concerns.

5. India's Solar Energy Capacity Milestone The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy announced that India's total installed solar power capacity crossed 85 GW as of January 2026, reinforcing the country's position as the world's fourth-largest solar power generator. The achievement brings India closer to its 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030. Critical for questions on energy sector and India's climate commitments.

Sports & Important Days

1. Australian Open Tennis Championship 2026 The Australian Open 2026 commenced in Melbourne on 12 January, with defending champions Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka leading the draws. Indian tennis players Rohan Bopanna and Sumit Nagal are participating in doubles and singles categories respectively. Important for sports current affairs in competitive exams.

2. National Youth Day Celebrations India celebrated National Youth Day on 12 January 2026, commemorating Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary. The day emphasizes the potential of youth in nation-building and is observed with various educational and cultural programs across the country. Relevant for questions on important national days and personalities.

3. Indian Armed Forces Veterans Day Armed Forces Veterans Day is observed on 14 January 2026, honoring Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, on his retirement anniversary. The day recognizes the contributions and sacrifices of military veterans. Important for defense-related questions and important observances.

4. ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Preparations The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (now scheduled for February-March 2026 due to postponement) will proceed with a hybrid model, with Pakistan hosting most matches while India's matches being held at neutral venues. Important for sports administration and international cricket updates.

5. Makar Sankranti and Pongal Celebrations India celebrated Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Uttarayan on 14-15 January 2026, marking the harvest festival and the Sun's transition into Capricorn (Makar Rashi). These festivals are celebrated across different states with regional variations including kite flying in Gujarat and Pongal rituals in Tamil Nadu. Relevant for questions on Indian culture and festivals.

Quick Revision Points for MCQ Preparation

1. National Youth Day is celebrated on 12 January to commemorate Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary.

2. Justice Sanjiv Khanna became the 51st Chief Justice of India on 13 January 2026.

3. Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY has covered over 50 crore beneficiaries, offering ₹5 lakh health insurance per family annually.

4. UPI transactions crossed 16 billion in December 2025, marking the highest monthly volume with ₹23 lakh crore value.

5. India's GDP growth for FY 2025-26 is projected at 6.8% by the Reserve Bank of India.

6. GST collections for December 2025 stood at ₹1.77 lakh crore, showing 10.3% year-on-year growth.

7. India's foreign exchange reserves increased to $625.87 billion as of 10 January 2026.

8. ISRO's Gaganyaan third unmanned test flight scheduled for March 2026 will carry humanoid robot 'Vyommitra'.

9. BSE Sensex crossed 80,000 mark for the first time on 13 January 2026.

10. India's solar power capacity exceeded 85 GW in January 2026, making it the world's fourth-largest solar generator.

11. European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) implemented on 13 January 2026 affects steel, cement, aluminum, and fertilizer imports.

12. Armed Forces Veterans Day is observed on 14 January, honoring Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa's retirement anniversary.

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