Daily and monthly current affairs updates to keep you prepared for competitive exams. Comprehensive coverage of national and international events.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsBangladesh Election Victory: The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, has secured a sweeping victory in the landmark parliamentary elections with more than a two-thirds majority.New Bangladesh PM: Tarique Rahman, son of former PM Khaleda Zia, is set to become the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh after living in exile for 17 years.Constitutional Reforms in Bangladesh: A referendum held alongside the elections saw a clear "yes" vote for an 84-point reform package, including a 10-year term limit for Prime Ministers and increased judicial independence.US Climate Policy Rollback: President Donald Trump's administration has repealed scientific findings that greenhouse gas emissions endanger human health and eliminated federal tailpipe emission standards for vehicles.Venezuela Oil Re-opening: Following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, the US has signaled plans to ease energy sanctions and facilitate a $100 billion reconstruction plan for Venezuela's oil industry.Nikhil Gupta Pleads Guilty: Indian national Nikhil Gupta has pleaded guilty in a US court to charges related to a foiled plot to assassinate Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.2. National Current AffairsSeva Teerth Inauguration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated "Seva Teerth," the new Prime Minister's Office (PMO) complex, marking a shift from the colonial-era South Block.Major Welfare Approvals: In his first decisions from the new PMO, the Prime Minister signed files doubling the "Lakhpati Didi" target to 60 million and doubling the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to ₹2 trillion.PM RAHAT Scheme: A new cashless treatment scheme for accident victims, PM RAHAT, has been launched, providing immediate medical help of up to ₹1.5 lakh.India-US Trade Impact: The government has introduced 44 new tariff lines to track market access granted to the US for products like pecan nuts, cranberries, and blueberries under recent trade agreements.Spectrum Ruling: The Supreme Court ruled that telecom spectrum is a sovereign resource and cannot be treated as a corporate asset subject to insolvency proceedings under the IBC.3. Science & TechnologyAI Impact Summit: New Delhi is set to host the AI Impact Summit next week, with 20 heads of state and 300+ exhibitors showcasing real-world AI deployment and scaling.AI in Healthcare: Researchers at IIIT-Hyderabad are utilizing AI-driven imaging and genomics for earlier cancer detection and personalized treatment.Biopharma Hub Focus: The government is prioritizing India as a global biopharma hub with a ₹10,000 crore allocation under the Biopharma Shakti project.Semiconductor Innovation: KLA Corporation has signed an MoU with Tamil Nadu to invest ₹3,600 crore in a new R&D and AI-led semiconductor innovation campus in Chennai.New CPI Series: The Ministry of Statistics has released a revised Consumer Price Index (CPI) series with 2024 as the base year to better reflect contemporary consumption patterns.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh State Budget: Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav is scheduled to present the state budget for 2026-27 with an expected outlay of ₹3.45–₹3.5 lakh crore.Telangana Municipal Polls: The Congress party secured nearly 75% of municipalities and municipal corporations in the recent Telangana civic polls.Tamil Nadu Welfare Credits: The DMK government has credited ₹5,000 each to over 13 million women under the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam as a pre-poll measure.Uttar Pradesh Pharma Investment: UP has logged pharmaceutical sector investment proposals exceeding ₹38,000 crore following recent global summits.Assam Bridge Inauguration: Prime Minister Modi is set to inaugurate the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, a 6-lane bridge connecting Guwahati and North Guwahati.5. District & Local NewsElephant Attacks in Jharkhand: At least six people, including four members of one family, were killed by a herd of wild elephants in Hazaribag district.Delhi Schools Bomb Scare: Several schools in Delhi received fresh bomb threat emails, leading to security sweeps across campuses.Fatal Accident in Bengaluru: Six students were among seven killed in a high-speed SUV crash in Hoskote taluk near Bengaluru.Museum Project in Mussoorie: A stretch of National Highway 707A near Mussoorie caved in due to alleged illegal excavation work on an adjoining property.6. Sports & GamesISL Relegation: The Indian Super League (ISL) will implement relegation for the first time this season, despite objections from participating clubs.India-Pakistan Ad Rates: Spot advertising rates for the upcoming India-Pakistan T20 World Cup clash have soared to ₹70 lakh for a 10-second slot.ISL Kick-off: The much-delayed Indian Super League season begins today at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.T20 World Cup Rivalry: New Zealand and South Africa are set for a crucial unbeaten clash in Ahmedabad to decide their group leadership.7. Cinema & EntertainmentRagini 3 Announcement: Actors Tamannaah Bhatia and Junaid Khan are set to star in "Ragini 3," a "date-night horror" film directed by Shashanka Ghosh.Deepika in 'The White Lotus': Actress Deepika Padukone is confirmed to join the cast of the popular series "The White Lotus".Security Threats to Bollywood: Actor Ranveer Singh and director Rohit Shetty have reportedly received new threats allegedly linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.Asia Jewels Show: The 62nd edition of the Asia Jewels Show opened in Hyderabad, featuring premium creations and gracing by popular actresses.8. General Knowledge PointsWhich significant historical site in India was recently reported by archaeologists to potentially date back 8,000 years, making it older than previously thought? Answer: Bhirrana (Haryana) (New radiocarbon dating suggests this Indus Valley site is much older than the established timeline.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Northeast’s first "Emergency Landing Facility" (ELF) in which state? Answer: Assam (specifically at Moran in the Dibrugarh district).According to the Henley Passport Index update for February 2026, what is India's current global rank? Answer: 75th (India showed an improvement of 5 positions since January, now granting visa-free access to 56 countries.)The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) recently cleared the procurement of "AS-HAPS" for the Indian Air Force. What does HAPS stand for? Answer: High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (These are solar-powered airships that can stay in the stratosphere for months for surveillance.)India finished atop the medal standings at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2026. How many total medals did India win? Answer: 94 Medals (including 51 Gold).Which Indian state government recently launched the "Sthree Suraksha Scheme" to provide monthly pensions to unemployed women and transwomen? Answer: KeralaFollowing the early elections on 12 February, which leader is positioned to become the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh? Answer: Tarique Rahman (leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party - BNP).The National Board for Wildlife recently approved the "Capital Ring Road" project, which will pass through which sanctuary in Odisha? Answer: Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary (Dhenkanal district).Which international sports event will the Indian Army host from February 18 to 23 in the Eastern Himalayas? Answer: International Military Adventure Challenge Cup (IMACC) 2026.Who has been appointed as the new Director General of Naval Armament in February 2026? Answer: Divakar JayantUday Kotak: Appointed as the new chairman of Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT) City.Lakhpati Didi: A central government initiative aimed at empowering women in self-help groups to earn at least ₹1 lakh annually.CAFE-3 Norms: Upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency norms (FY28-FY32) that will tighten carbon dioxide emission limits for carmakers.Reits Lending: The RBI has proposed new guidelines allowing banks to lend to Real Estate Investment Trusts (Reits) up to a 10% exposure limit.9. Do You Know?The 8,000-Year Secret: If the dating of the Bhirrana site is officially accepted, it would make the Indus Valley Civilisation older than the Mesopotamian and Egyptian civilisations.The "Lovebird" Legend: While we celebrate Valentine’s Day today, the 14th-century poet Geoffrey Chaucer was the first to link this day to romantic love, based on an old folk belief that birds began their mating season on February 14.Shani Pradosh Vrat: Today is spiritually significant in India as it is Shani Trayodashi. It is considered a rare and powerful day when Saturn's day (Saturday) coincides with the Pradosh Vrat dedicated to Lord Shiva.Pangolin Protection: In a unique community move today, the Sangtam community in Nagaland adopted a resolution to completely ban the hunting and trafficking of Pangolins to protect them from extinction.The "0% Tariff" Deal: India is currently negotiating a landmark "0% Tariff" trade deal with the US specifically for textiles, which could significantly boost Indian garment exports in 2026.Sustainable Tech: The new Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu in Assam uses "Friction Pendulum Bearings" for enhanced seismic safety.Urban Growth: India's urban areas are projected to contribute 70% of the national GDP by FY26.10. Job & Educational TopicsStartup India Fund of Funds 2.0: A new ₹10,000 crore corpus has been approved to support deep-tech startups and early-stage innovative ideas.Teachers Recruitment: Walk-in interviews are being announced for PGT, TGT, and PRT positions for the 2026-27 academic session in various regional institutions.Entrepreneurship Centers: New "Rural Incubation Skilling and Entrepreneurship Centers" are being highlighted to train women as industrial leaders.11. Day Special: February 14Black Day (Pulwama Anniversary)The Incident: On February 14, 2019, a suicide bomber targeted a convoy of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway at Lethapora in Pulwama district.The Sacrifice: 40 brave soldiers were martyred in the blast, making it one of the deadliest attacks on Indian security forces in decades.Nationwide Observance: Every year, the day is marked with wreath-laying ceremonies at the Pulwama Memorial and across various CRPF camps to honor the "Bravehearts."Tributes: The Prime Minister and top leaders lead the nation in paying homage, reiterating that the soldiers' sacrifice will never be forgotten.Symbolism: For many in India, the day serves as a reminder of the price paid for national security, often trending on social media with the hashtag #BlackDay.Legacy: The attack led to a significant shift in India’s counter-terrorism policy, including the Balakot airstrikes that followed shortly after.Valentine’s Day: Celebrated globally as a day of love; markets in India saw a 60% surge in e-commerce and gifting volumes for the occasion.Sarojini Naidu Birth Anniversary: Tributes were paid in Parliament to the "Nightingale of India" on her birth anniversary.Parents' Worship Day: Some regions and organizations observed this day alongside Valentine's Day to honor parental bonds.
Authored B K Shiva1. International Current AffairsRussia Blocks WhatsApp: The Russian government has completely blocked the messaging app WhatsApp, citing its failure to comply with local laws. The Kremlin has urged citizens to switch to a state-backed domestic alternative called "MAX".Bangladesh General Elections: Voting has concluded in Bangladesh's first general election since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Early projections show the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, taking a lead, followed by Jamaat-e-Islami.Canada School Shooting: An 18-year-old woman with a history of mental health issues killed her mother and stepbrother before attacking her former school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, resulting in eight fatalities.Settlement for Indian Student in US: The city of Seattle has agreed to a $29 million (approximately ₹262 crore) settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, an Andhra Pradesh student killed by a speeding police vehicle in 2023.Nissan Turnaround: Japanese automaker Nissan reported a surprise profit in the third quarter, signaling that its global manufacturing footprint reduction and turnaround plan are gaining traction.2. National Current AffairsMassive Rafale Deal: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has cleared a proposal to purchase 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft from France. Of these, 90 aircraft are expected to be manufactured in India.New Retail Inflation Series: The government released retail inflation data based on a new 2024 series. Inflation for January 2026 stood at 2.75%, with a reduced weightage for food and beverages.India-US Trade Deal: Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the interim trade deal with the US, expected by mid-March, will provide India with zero-duty textile export benefits similar to those recently granted to Bangladesh.Supreme Court on Rera: The Supreme Court criticized the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Rera), suggesting it has become a "rehabilitation center" for retired bureaucrats and is failing to provide effective relief to home buyers.Nationwide General Strike: Central trade unions and farm unions reported that over 30 crore participants joined a general strike on Thursday to protest against new Labour Codes and free trade deals.Seva Teerth Inauguration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate "Seva Teerth," a new consolidated building complex housing the PMO, Cabinet Secretariat, and National Security Council.3. Science & TechnologyBharat Bodhan AI Conclave: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated a two-day conclave in New Delhi, stating that India's AI will be "inclusive by design, interoperable by architecture, and sovereign by capability".AI in Education: Discussions at the AI conclave focused on deploying AI at scale across India's education system in alignment with NEP 2020.Digital Public Infrastructure for Power: The Ministry of Power released Version 0.3 of the India Energy Stack (IES) architecture to enable secure data exchange and interactions among utilities and consumers.Space-Based AIS for Navy: The DAC approved the acquisition of a High-Altitude Satellite-based Automatic Identification System (AIS) for maritime surveillance.AI for Disaster Recovery: Industry leaders highlighted the use of AI layers in predictive monitoring to prevent disasters and build robust recovery systems.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh State Budget: The A.P. government is set to present its 2026-27 State Budget on Saturday, with an estimated size between ₹3.38 lakh crore and ₹3.48 lakh crore, focusing on "Super Six" welfare schemes.Telangana Municipal Elections: Counting of votes for 116 municipalities and seven municipal corporations in Telangana began on Friday morning under tight security.99-Paise Land Policy in A.P.: IT Minister Nara Lokesh defended the allotment of land to five major companies (including TCS and Cognizant) at 99 paise per acre, calling it a pro-jobs initiative aimed at creating 20 lakh jobs by 2029.Ladakh Territorial Council: The Centre has offered a territorial council to Ladakh while making it clear that Sixth Schedule status or full statehood will not be granted.Karnataka MLA Arrest: CID arrested KR Pura BJP MLA B.A. Basavaraja at the Bengaluru airport in connection with the murder of a realtor after the Supreme Court rejected his bail plea.5. District & Local NewsNew Civic Bodies for Hyderabad: The two new civic bodies carved out of the expanded GHMC (Cyberabad and Malkajgiri) will each receive ₹500 crore for urgent infrastructure works.Srisailam Temple Rush: Thousands of devotees are reaching the Srisailam temple for Mahasivaratri Brahmotsavams. Authorities have exempted toll fees for vehicles from February 13 to 16.QR Codes for Transport Vehicles: The Telangana Transport Department will mandate a QR-based verification system for reflective tapes on transport vehicles starting February 20 to enhance night safety.TIMS Opening: The Telangana Institute of Medical Sciences (TIMS) at Sanathnagar is scheduled to be inaugurated on Ugadi (March 19).6. Sports & GamesIndia vs. Namibia T20: Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan starred for India in a T20 match against Namibia; Pandya scored 52 runs and Kishan hit a quick fifty.T20 World Cup - Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka defeated Oman, with Pavan Rathnayake scoring his maiden T20I fifty. Sri Lanka now tops Group B.Cricket Returns to Bengaluru: The Karnataka cabinet approved the resumption of cricket matches at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, allowing RCB to host IPL matches there.Delhi Khelo Mahakumbh: The capital is set to kick off the "Khelo Mahakumbh" on Friday, featuring over 30,000 athletes competing across 17 stadiums.Hockey Pro League: The Indian men's hockey team suffered a heavy defeat against Argentina in Rourkela.7. Cinema & EntertainmentF1 Movie Sequel: Producer Jerry Bruckheimer revealed that a sequel to the 2025 blockbuster "F1" is currently in the works .Sarla Maheshwari Passes Away: Former popular Doordarshan newsreader Sarla Maheshwari, known for her diction in the 1980s, passed away on Thursday.Ameesha Patel's Alma Mater Visit: Actress Ameesha Patel visited her graduation alma mater and shared nostalgic memories on social media.New Film Releases: "Myths and Legends" and an exhibition titled "Satyam Shivam Sundaram" by Srikanth Babu Adepu are opening today.8. General Knowledge PointsWhich two important days are celebrated globally and in India today, 13 February? Answer: World Radio Day and National Women’s Day (India).What is the theme for World Radio Day 2026? Answer: “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice.” (The theme emphasizes that while AI can enhance broadcasting, the human voice remains the heart of radio.)National Women’s Day is celebrated in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of which leader? Answer: Sarojini Naidu (Today marks her 147th birth anniversary. Known as the "Nightingale of India," she was a key freedom fighter and poet.)According to the latest 2026 reports, which party won a landslide victory in the historic Bangladesh parliamentary elections? Answer: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) (The election is expected to restore political stability in the region.)The Ministry of Cooperation recently launched which initiative to boost the role of women in the dairy sector? Answer: White Revolution 2.0 (Launched by Union Minister Amit Shah, it aims to empower women through cooperative-led dairy farming.)India recently signed a major bilateral Social Security Agreement with which country for cross-border workers? Answer: United Kingdom (UK) (This allows workers to secure a Certificate of Coverage (CoC) via the EPFO or MEA.)Which major defense acquisition was recently cleared by the Indian government for approximately ₹3.25 lakh crore? Answer: 114 Rafale fighter jets (The deal also includes P-8I submarine hunter aircraft to strengthen naval and air preparedness.)Which Indian city is hosting the first BRICS Sherpas' and Sous Sherpas' meeting under India's 2026 Presidency? Answer: New Delhi (The meeting, chaired by Sudhakar Dalela, focused on priorities like health, agriculture, and innovation.)A mud volcano recently erupted in which Indian island territory? Answer: Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Diglipur, Middle Andaman) (Unlike regular volcanoes, these release mud and gases rather than lava.)Which international high-speed rail project was recently announced to connect Riyadh and Doha in just two hours? Answer: Saudi Arabia–Qatar 785 km Bullet Train ProjectKodan-vuru-ta-kantan: An ancient Tamil inscription meaning "Kopan came and saw" was found in a tomb in Egypt's Valley of the Kings, confirming historical trade between India and the Roman world.Nightingale of India: Sarojini Naidu, whose birth anniversary is celebrated as National Women's Day on February 13, was famously known by this title.Soleus Push-ups: A simple seated exercise that activates calf muscles can significantly lower post-meal sugar spikes and improve metabolic health.9. Do You Know?The "Nightingale's" Record: Sarojini Naidu was so brilliant that at age 13, she wrote a 1,300-line poem titled The Lady of the Lake in just six days.The 300-Million-Year-Old River: Scientists have confirmed that the Finke River in Australia is likely the world's oldest river system. Interestingly, it only flows a few days a year; for the rest of the time, it remains a dry bed with ancient hidden waterholes.Radio's "Nightingale" Anniversary: While we celebrate World Radio Day, did you know the first Community Radio Station in India was inaugurated on February 1, 2004?The "Romeo-Juliet" Legal Clause: The Supreme Court of India has officially suggested adding a "Romeo-Juliet" clause to the POCSO Act to protect adolescents in consensual relationships from being treated as criminals.Ancient Arrow Poison: New research released today reveals that humans in Southern Africa were using poisoned arrows made from the deadly gifbol plant as far back as 60,000 years ago.World Radio Day: February 13 is observed as World Radio Day to celebrate the medium's role in education and cultural heritageSixth Schedule: This constitutional provision provides for the administration of tribal areas in certain states to protect indigenous identity; Ladakh has been demanding this status.10. Job & Educational TopicsIIT Lucknow AI Course: IIT Lucknow will start a Bachelor of Science (BS) course in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics for the 2026-27 academic year, with an option for an integrated M.Tech.Intermediate Hall Tickets: The Board of Intermediate Education (BIE) in Andhra Pradesh is releasing hall tickets for the first and second-year Intermediate Public Examinations on Friday.Salary Hikes at Wipro: Wipro is reportedly planning to roll out salary increments for its employees starting March 1, 2026.Foreign Universities in India: The University of Southampton is setting up a campus near Delhi, becoming one of the first British universities to operate in India under new rules.11. Day Special: National Women's Day & World Radio DayNational Women's Day (India): February 13 marks the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu. It is celebrated to honor her contributions to women's rights and the independence movement.World Radio Day: Celebrated globally on February 13, highlighting the radio as a powerful tool for information and democratic discourse.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsBangladesh General Elections: Bangladesh is set to hold crucial parliamentary elections today, 18 months after the collapse of Sheikh Hasina's regime. A record 1 million security personnel have been deployed to ensure safety during the polls.Canada Mass Shooting: A tragic shooting at a school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, left seven people dead. Two additional bodies were found at a nearby home, and the female shooter is believed to have died from a self-inflicted wound.US-Israel Talks on Iran: President Trump hosted Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Netanyahu is expected to urge the US to expand negotiations with Iran to include limits on Tehran's missile arsenal.EU Regulation Simplification: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for simplifying EU regulations and creating a single, deep capital market to compete with the US and China.Global Conflict Resolution: Poland and Italy have declined to join Trump’s "Board of Peace," an initiative originally designed for Gaza that may expand to resolve other global conflicts2. National Current AffairsUS-India Trade Deal Revision: The White House revised its trade deal fact sheet, softening language from a "commitment" to an "intent to buy" over $500 billion in US goods. References to India scrapping digital services taxes and reducing tariffs on "certain pulses" were also removed.Direct Tax Collections: Net direct tax collections grew by 9.4% year-on-year, reaching ₹19.43 lakh crore as of February 10. Notably, tax refunds declined by 18.8% to ₹3.34 lakh crore during this period.Sovereign AI Goal: Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw declared "Sovereign AI" as a national goal, aiming for India to be competitive across all layers of the AI stack, including models, chipsets, and infrastructure.FDI Policy Overhaul: The government is examining a rationalisation of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) rules to treat investments in listed and unlisted firms more consistently.Parliamentary Debate: Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi attacked the government in the Lok Sabha, alleging a "wholesale surrender" of national interests in the US trade deal. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman countered, stating the deal is calibrated to protect farmers and exporters.3. Science & TechnologyAI Impact Summit: Global leaders from over 100 countries are converging in Delhi for the India AI Impact Summit. Investments between $70–100 billion are expected to be announced during the event.Hydrogen Reservoir Discovery: New research published in Nature Communications reveals that Earth possesses a massive "hydrogen reservoir," with hydrogen making up approximately 0.36% to 0.7% of the planet's total weight.WWW Inventor's Warning: Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, cautioned that AI could become more powerful than its creators and urged for AI assistants that serve user interests rather than corporate incentives.Humanoid Robotics Funding: The startup Apptronik raised $520 million in a funding round backed by Google and Mercedes-Benz to commercialize humanoid robots for industrial use.Bhashini AI Platform: India's Bhashini is being highlighted for its transformation into a critical AI backbone for language translation and inclusive digital services.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Budget Session: Governor Abdul Nazeer addressed a joint session of the AP legislature, emphasizing the state's transition from "destruction to reconstruction". He highlighted that ₹33,000 crore is being transferred annually to the poor via cash transfers.Rajasthan Budget: Deputy CM Diya Kumari presented a ₹6.10 lakh crore budget, announcing the formation of the Rajasthan State Testing Agency (RSTA) for transparent competitive exams.Mumbai Mayor Election: BJP’s Ritu Tawde was elected as the 78th Mayor of Mumbai, marking the first time in 44 years the BJP has held the post.Manipur Peace Mission: CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited Jiribam district to interact with Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in a broader effort to rebuild trust following ethnic violenceDelhi Pollution Control: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announced that pollution will ease within two years, citing wall-to-wall carpeting of 1,400km of roads and the induction of 4,200 EV buses.5. District & Local NewsDelhi Sewer Death: A case of death by negligence was registered after a 10-year-old labourer died falling into an open sewer manhole in Rohini's Begumpur.Hyderabad Infrastructure: The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) issued tenders for providing a gravity main and butterfly valves for the KDWSP Phase-IV project.Bengaluru Family Tragedy: A 28-year-old US-returned software engineer was arrested for allegedly murdering his parents over a dispute regarding funding for his startup.Guntur Shipping Facility: The A.P. Maritime Board invited tenders for setting up a shipbuilding and ship repair facility at Machilipatnam.Nizamabad & Adilabad Polls: During municipal elections, police assisted elderly voters with wheelchairs, while a woman in Adilabad was caught entering a booth with a 4-inch kitchen knife, which was seized.6. Sports & GamesT20 World Cup Craze: Ad rates for the upcoming India-Pakistan T20 World Cup clash have surged to ₹35–40 lakh per 10-second spot. Total commercial value for the match is estimated at nearly ₹4,000 crore.Hockey Pro League: The Indian men's hockey team faced Belgium, losing after a dominant performance by the Belgians who took an early lead.Cricket T20 Highlights: South Africa won a "Super Over" thriller against Afghanistan, while Australia crushed Ireland by 67 runs, led by Nathan Ellis's three-wicket burst.Formula 1 Testing: Pre-season testing began in Bahrain with new regulations making cars shorter and lighter. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen posted the fastest time in the morning session.Athletics: Champion decathlete Tejaswin Shankar is targeting the 9,000-point mark for the 2026 Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.7. Cinema & EntertainmentExtortion Threat to Ranveer Singh: Mumbai Police stepped up security for actor Ranveer Singh after he received a ₹10 crore extortion threat via a voice note.Britney Spears Music Rights: Pop star Britney Spears has sold the rights to her music catalog to the publisher 'Primary Wave' for approximately $200 million.Sreeleela's Medical Degree: South Indian actress Sreeleela graduated with a medical degree from DY Patil University, balancing her film career with her studies.The Mummy 4: Actors Rachel Weisz and Brendan Fraser are set to return for The Mummy 4, scheduled for release in 2028.Margot Robbie's "Worst Gift": The Barbie star recalled receiving a book on weight loss from a male co-star early in her career, which she described as the worst gift she ever received (source: Tabloid snippets).8. General Knowledge PointsWhich day is celebrated globally on February 12 to commemorate the birth of the father of evolutionary biology? Answer: Darwin Day (It marks the birth anniversary of Charles Darwin, honoring his contributions to science and humanity.)In the latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025 released today, what is India's global rank? Answer: 91st (India scored 39 out of 100, while Denmark retained the top spot as the least corrupt country.)Which organization is celebrating its 68th Foundation Day today, kicking off "National Productivity Week 2026"? Answer: National Productivity Council (NPC) (The theme for 2026 is "Productivity through AI and Innovation.")India is holding the presidency for which major global grouping in 2026, with the first Sherpa meeting recently held in Delhi? Answer: BRICS (The theme for the 18th BRICS Summit is "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.")Which Indian city recently unveiled the country's first "Musical Road" that plays the song 'Jai Ho' when driven over? Answer: Mumbai (The special stretch is located on the new Coastal Road to encourage speed limit compliance through auditory feedback.)Who has been appointed as India's Sherpa for the BRICS 2026 Presidency? Answer: Sudhakar DalelaWhich major health campaign was launched by Union Minister J.P. Nadda to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027? Answer: National Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Campaign (India aims to eliminate this public health problem three years ahead of the global target.)According to the latest NSO data, what is India’s unemployment rate for Q3 (Oct-Dec 2025)? Answer: 4.8% (This is a three-quarter low, indicating a positive trend in the labor market.)Which portal was recently launched by the Ministry of Electronics (MeitY) to digitize the entire certification lifecycle for IT products? Answer: SATYA (STQC Lab Automation Portal)Which two world leaders were the Chief Guests for India's 77th Republic Day celebrations? Answer: Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa (Representing the European Commission and European Council respectively.)SBI vs. TCS: For the first time in over 15 years, State Bank of India’s (SBI) market capitalization has surpassed that of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).Ancient Indian Graffiti: 2,000-year-old Tamil Brahmi inscriptions have been found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs, proving the reach of ancient Indian merchants.World's Largest Consumer of AI: India accounted for 16% of the world’s 3.8 billion generative AI app downloads in 2025, the highest globally.New CPI Series: India is switching its Consumer Price Index (CPI) base year from 2012 to 2024 to better reflect current household spending patterns.Rare Earth Pilot: Kerala is launching a pilot project to extract rare earth minerals from monazite residues using indigenous technology.9. Do You Know?The "Jai Ho" Road: Mumbai's new musical road uses specifically spaced grooves in the asphalt. If you drive exactly at the speed limit, the vibrations create the melody of A.R. Rahman's 'Jai Ho'.The 20-Second Hug: Today is Hug Day (Valentine’s Week). Science shows that a hug lasting 20 seconds releases Oxytocin, which can lower blood pressure and reduce stress.Interstellar Visitor: Astronomers are tracking 3I/ATLAS, only the third interstellar comet ever spotted in our solar system, which slipped in earlier this week.Venus Volcanoes: For the first time, radar data from 1990 has been re-analyzed today to confirm a large underground lava tube on Venus—the first subsurface feature ever detected on our neighbor planet.Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday: Aside from Darwin, today is also the birth anniversary of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US President who famously self-educated himself by candlelight.The "Buy Indian-IDDM" (Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category in defense procurement now excludes wholly-owned local subsidiaries of foreign companies to boost true local manufacturing.The RBI has proposed a complete ban on sales incentives for bank staff from third parties like insurance companies to prevent mis-selling.India's first multi-sector Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) is being planned to encompass assets across various sectors rather than just highways.10. Job & Educational TopicsGroup-1 Investigation: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe alleged irregularities in the evaluation of Group-1 main exam answer sheets.Senior Advocate Designation: The Supreme Court has notified new guidelines for designating "Senior Advocate" status to lawyers, involving a permanent committee and a SecretariatUPPSC Exams: Computer-based Hindi typing tests for Review Officer (RO) and Assistant Review Officer (ARO) will be held from February 16 to 19, 2026.Akasa Air Leadership: Following the resignation of co-founder Praveen Iyer, Anand Srinivasan will take over as the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) from May 1.11. Day Special: February 12Daily Quiz Point: On this day in year, legendary English scientist Charles Darwin was born (shared birth date with Abraham Lincoln).International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): The word of the day is "Presentiment," meaning a feeling of evil to come; synonyms include foreboding and premonition.Special Health Initiative: The Punjab government is promoting the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, providing ₹10 lakh free treatment per family annually at 900+ empanelled hospitals.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsU.S.-Bangladesh Trade Deal: The U.S. and Bangladesh have struck a deal securing a reduced 19% reciprocal tariff for Bangladesh, causing concern among Indian textile exporters.Trump's China Visit: U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly scheduled to visit Beijing in April to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.Indo-China Strategic Dialogue: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held meetings with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, discussing the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and bilateral ties.Russia on India-US Ties: Russia expressed hope that the recent India-US trade framework would not adversely affect India-Russia energy ties, particularly oil imports.Bangladesh Minority Concerns: Ahead of the February 12 elections, the Hindu community in Bangladesh has expressed deep concern over safety following a series of violent incidents.Nepal Bus Accident: A tragic accident occurred in central Nepal where a passenger bus fell into the Tamakoshi River, resulting in 12 deaths.2. National Current AffairsOpposition vs. Speaker: At least 118 Opposition MPs (excluding TMC) have submitted a notice to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accusing him of partisanship.New IT Rules for AI: The Union government has notified amendments to the IT Rules, 2026, requiring photorealistic AI-generated content to be prominently labeled starting February 20.Stricter Content Takedown: New regulations now mandate social media platforms to remove illegal or sensitive content (like deepfakes) within 2 to 3 hours, down from the previous 24–36 hours.Assam Voter Roll Purification: The Election Commission deleted 2.4 lakh names from Assam's final electoral rolls to remove duplicates and deceased voters, achieving near-perfect gender parity.Enforcement Directorate Action: The ED has issued fresh summons to Anil and Tina Ambani in connection with a probe into alleged money laundering of ₹40,000 crore.3. Science & TechnologyAI Impact Summit 2026: New Delhi is set to host a major global summit from February 16–20, with attendees including CEOs like Sam Altman (OpenAI), Sundar Pichai (Google), and Jensen Huang (NVIDIA).ISRO's Future Goals: ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath announced plans for a human moon landing by 2040 and the establishment of a Bharatiya Space Station by 2045.Agentic AI: Today's news highlights the rise of "Agentic AI"—systems designed to act autonomously toward goals rather than just responding to prompts.AI in Healthcare: Doctors at AIIMS are using AI-assisted reconstruction for complex surgeries, though some jaw reconstruction procedures have been delayed due to administrative hurdles.Environmental Monitoring: The Yamuna river has seen a return of white thick froth at Kalindi Kunj, prompting calls for more rigorous technology-enabled water quality monitoring.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Budget: The A.P. Budget session commences today, with the state budget scheduled to be presented on February 14.Statutory Status for Amaravati: CM Chandrababu Naidu met Union Ministers Amit Shah and Nirmala Sitharaman, seeking statutory backing for Amaravati as the state capital.J&K Water Projects: CM Omar Abdullah stated that the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty by the Centre has paved the way for work to begin on the Tulbul Navigation Barrage and Chenab water lifting projects.Unclaimed Deposits in A.P.: The Lok Sabha was informed that unclaimed bank deposits in Andhra Pradesh total ₹2,279 crore as of January 2026.Telangana Local Polls: Tensions rose in Telangana ahead of urban local body elections following the suspicious death of a BJP candidate in Narayanapet.5. District & Local NewsVisakhapatnam Metro: The state government has made progress on the DPR for the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project, with minor changes being finalized.Fake Hallmarking Raid: BIS officials conducted a raid at a gold hallmarking center in Kurupam Market, Visakhapatnam, seizing a laser marking machine used for fake hallmarks.Vijayawada Drone Surveillance: Police in Vijayawada have deployed 42 drones for continuous aerial surveillance to monitor traffic, crime, and public safety.Mathura Tragedy: A family of five, including three children, was found dead in Mathura; police suspect a case of murder-suicide.GVMC Amenities: Visakhapatnam corporators have demanded improved drinking water, sanitation, and electricity during a review meet with the GVMC Commissioner.6. Sports & GamesAsian Shooting Championship: Kazakhstan's Sofiya Shulzhenko set a new world record in the 50m rifle 3 positions event at the championship held in New Delhi.Ranji Trophy: Bengal defeated Andhra by an innings and 100 runs in the quarterfinals to qualify for the semifinals.T20 World Cup: Key league matches today include England vs. West Indies and Australia vs. Afghanistan.Sumit Nagal's Win: Indian tennis player Sumit Nagal progressed to the second round of his tournament after a three-set victory over Felix Gill.Serena Williams' Return: The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) has listed Serena Williams as eligible to return to the court from February 22.7. Cinema & EntertainmentTitle Change for 'Rai Wala': The film starring Shiva Kandukuri, originally titled Rai Wala, has been renamed 'Nawab' due to sensor-related adjustments.Maniam Selven’s Tribute: A new coffee-table book titled 'The Complete Artist' has been launched as a tribute to the legendary artist Maniam to mark his birth centenary.Extortion Threat: Actor Ranveer Singh reportedly received an extortion threat via a voice note, allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.Sachin Tendulkar in Delhi: Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar met PM Modi to invite him for his son Arjun’s wedding; he also met A.P. CM Naidu at the Delhi airport.8. General Knowledge PointsWhich international observance is celebrated today to advocate for full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls? Answer: International Day of Women and Girls in Science (UNESCO and UN-Women are hosting a global event today under the theme: "From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap.")India and which neighboring country recently held a Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi to discuss trade concerns and LAC stability? Answer: China (Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu met to focus on stabilizing bilateral ties following the 2024 border agreements.)Which Indian state has officially become the largest wool producer in India as of February 2026? Answer: Rajasthan (According to the latest Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics, Rajasthan accounts for nearly 47.5% of the national wool output.)India recently signed a "Joint Declaration of Intent" with which country to boost defense industrial cooperation? Answer: Greece (The agreement establishes a 5-year roadmap for collaboration between India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and Greece's defense reforms.)ISRO has recently identified "Mons Mouton-4" as the prospective landing site for which upcoming lunar mission? Answer: Chandrayaan-4 (Mons Mouton-4 is located near the Moon's south pole and was chosen for its high scientific potential for sample return.)Opposition parties in India have recently submitted a motion seeking the removal of which high-ranking constitutional officer? Answer: Lok Sabha Speaker (Om Birla) (The move comes amid repeated disruptions and disagreements over the functioning of the House during the Budget Session.)Which international financial institution recently approved a $182 million loan to manage flood and soil erosion in Assam? Answer: Asian Development Bank (ADB) (The funding will extend integrated risk management measures along high-priority reaches of the Brahmaputra river.)The CBSE has announced the introduction of which new technology-driven evaluation method for Class 10 and 12 board exams starting in 2026? Answer: Digital Screen-Based Marking (This move is expected to streamline the evaluation process and significantly reduce manual errors.)Which Indian city is currently implementing a fresh budget plan to achieve "Cleaner Air" targets by the end of 2026? Answer: New Delhi (The Commission for Air Quality Management announced measurable targets and budget provisions to reduce historical pollution levels.)Pakistan has recently reversed its earlier decision and agreed to play its match against India in which global tournament? Answer: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (The highly anticipated fixture is set to take place on February 15, ensuring the tournament proceeds with all major teams.)BIS Act 2016: Provides for penalties including imprisonment of up to one year or heavy fines for using counterfeit hallmarks.Safe Harbour Principle: A legal protection for digital intermediaries (like social media) that prevents them from being held liable for user-generated content, provided they comply with takedown rules.Indus Water Treaty (1960): Governs the sharing of water from the Indus river system between India and Pakistan; parts of it are currently in abeyance by India.Finance Commission: The 16th Finance Commission’s recommendation to scrap Revenue Deficit Grants is a major fiscal discussion point for states like A.P..9. Do You Know?The Ferrero-Lourdes Secret: The famous chocolate Ferrero Rocher was actually inspired by the "Rocher de Massabielle," the rocky grotto at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France. The word "Rocher" means "rock" in French.The First "Robot": On this day in 1938, the BBC produced the world's first-ever science fiction TV program. It was an adaptation of a play that originally coined the word "robot."A "Light-Day" Away: NASA's Voyager 1 is expected to become the first human-made object to reach a distance of one light-day from Earth (approx. 26 billion km) later this year.Thomas Edison’s Birthday: Today is the birth anniversary of Thomas Edison, the world's most prolific inventor. It is also celebrated as National Inventors' Day in his honor.Lattes and Guitars: Aside from science and politics, today is also globally recognized as National Latte Day and National Get Out Your Guitar Day!Take One's Medicine: An idiom meaning to be willing to accept punishment or something unpleasant.BMB Portal: The RBI's UDGAM portal serves as a centralized search platform for unclaimed deposits but does not settle claims directly.10. Job & Educational TopicsCBSE Class XII Evaluation: CBSE has announced that Class XII evaluation will move to an on-screen marking system, while Class X will remain manual.A.P. Fee Reimbursement: The A.P. government has released ₹1,200 crore toward fee reimbursement for the 2024-25 academic year, benefiting students from BC, Minority, and EWS categories.New Recruitment: ECIL Hyderabad is recruiting for 18 Executive Officer posts via interview on February 20.IIT Guwahati Jobs: Applications are open for Junior Research Fellows and Associate Project Engineers; the deadline is February 16, 2026.11. Day Special: February 11International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Celebrated annually on February 11 to promote full and equal access to science for women and girls.World Unani Day: Observed to mark the birth anniversary of Unani scholar Hakim Ajmal Khan and promote the holistic healing traditions of Unani medicine
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsJimmy Lai Sentenced: Hong Kong media tycoon and vocal China critic Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials.UK Political Crisis: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing intense pressure to resign following the resignation of key aides and backlash over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador due to his past ties with Jeffrey Epstein.Iran Reformist Crackdown: Iranian security forces have launched a fresh campaign to arrest prominent figures within the country’s reformist movement, including Azar Mansouri, head of the Reformist Front.Vance in Armenia: U.S. Vice President JD Vance landed in Yerevan to advance a U.S.-brokered peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, marking a historic visit to the region.Portugal Election: Centre-left Socialist candidate Antonio Jose Seguro secured a landslide victory in Portugal’s presidential runoff, defeating hard-right populist Andre Ventura.Japan Election Outcome: Exit polls indicate a significant victory for Sanae Takaichi’s coalition, which is expected to trigger promised tax cuts and a shift in regional military strategy.2. National Current AffairsOil Sourcing Strategy: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India’s oil procurement will be guided strictly by national interest and diversification, despite U.S. pressure to stop importing Russian crude.No-Confidence Motion against Speaker: Opposition parties in the INDIA bloc are considering a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accusing him of partisan conduct and denying the Leader of the Opposition a chance to speak.Anil Ambani Probe: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe alleged money laundering cases involving ₹40,000 crore against Anil Ambani and the Reliance Group.AIIMS Delhi Global Ranking: AIIMS Delhi has been ranked 6th globally in the 2026 Brand Finance Global Top 250 Hospitals report, recognized for its clinical precision and ability to handle high patient loads.Net-Zero Investment: A NITI Aayog report highlights that India requires a cumulative investment of $22.7 trillion to achieve its 2070 net-zero target, flagging a financing gap of $6.53 trillion.3. Science & TechnologyChandrayaan-4 Landing Site: ISRO has finalized "Manzius Mountain (MM-1)" in the lunar south pole region as the landing site for the Chandrayaan-4 mission, which aims to bring lunar samples back to Earth.Next-Gen Tsunami Warning: India is establishing a first-of-its-kind Regional Service Centre in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to detect tsunamis triggered by non-seismic causes like landslides or volcanic activity.Transponders for Fishing Boats: ISRO’s Space Applications Centre announced that one lakh fishing boats will be equipped with transponders to help fishermen identify potential zones and receive wave/tsunami alerts.Quantum Valley Project: AP Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu laid the foundation for the "Amaravati Quantum Valley," aiming to manufacture quantum computers in India within two years.AI for Banking Security: The Supreme Court has directed banks to develop AI-based mechanisms to flag suspicious transactions and issue real-time alerts to account holders to prevent cyber fraud.4. States Current AffairsWest Bengal Voter Revision: The Supreme Court extended the deadline for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal by one week following allegations of logical discrepancies in over 1.36 crore entries.Telangana Municipal Polls: Campaigning ended for the Telangana Municipal Elections-2026, covering seven corporations and 116 municipalities, with polling scheduled for February 11.Meghalaya Mining Tragedy: The death toll from the February 5 coal mine explosion in Meghalaya has risen to 30, prompting the state government to order a judicial probe.Andhra Pradesh Budget Session: The state legislature's budget session is set to commence on February 11 with an address by Governor S. Abdul Nazeer.Delhi Air Taxi Corridor: CII has proposed a pilot air mobility corridor linking Gurgaon, Connaught Place, and Noida Airport, aiming to reduce travel time between these hubs to under 20 minutes.5. District & Local NewsSrisailam Brahmotsavams: The Mahasivaratri Brahmotsavams began at the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam with the traditional 'Dwajarohana' ritual.Kanpur Lamborghini Crash: Police filed an FIR against Shivam Mishra, son of a tobacco tycoon, for a high-speed crash in Kanpur that injured several pedestrians.Faridabad Jail Violence: A terror suspect, Abdul Rahuman, was allegedly killed by another inmate in Faridabad district jail using a sharp-edged object.Vijayawada Bridge Work: Safety upgrade and reinforcement work is underway on the railway bridge in Vijayawada as the water level in the Krishna river recedes.Hoax Bomb Threats: Over a dozen schools in Delhi, including DPS and Bal Bharati in Rohini, received hoax bomb threats via emails written in Punjabi.6. Sports & GamesBCCI Annual Retainers: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been moved to Grade B in the 2025-26 annual contracts, while Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja were demoted from Grade A.Davis Cup Victory: Dhakshineswar Suresh won the decisive fifth rubber to lead India to a 3-2 victory over the Netherlands, securing a spot in the Elite Qualifiers.T20 World Cup: Zimbabwe marked their return to the showpiece with an eight-wicket victory over Oman in Colombo.Pakistan to Play India: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif cleared the national team to play India in the T20 World Cup on February 15, ending a week-long standoff.Olympic Education: Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha met an international delegation to discuss structured Olympic education and athlete welfare programs in India.7. Cinema & EntertainmentMysore Sandal Rebranding: Actor Tamannaah Bhatia has been named the face of the 108-year-old Mysore Sandal soap as it launches a new, royal look and transformed product portfolio.Super Bowl Halftime: Bad Bunny performed at Super Bowl 60's halftime show, featuring guest appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, celebrating Puerto Rican culture.Historical Film Projects: A new film project titled Yuddha (set in the Tipu Sultan era) began filming in Hyderabad, featuring Raj Bhawani Devi in a key role.8. General Knowledge PointsWhere did Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently inaugurate Zetwerk Electronics' new large-scale manufacturing facility? Answer: Bengaluru, Karnataka (The facility aims to boost India's electronics manufacturing ecosystem and supports the "Make in India" initiative.)Which state government has collaborated with the Centre to lay the foundation stone for India’s first "Quantum Valley"? Answer: Andhra Pradesh (Amaravati) (The project, launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh and CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, aims to make India a global leader in quantum computing.)President Patrick Herminie, who is currently on a six-day state visit to India, is the President of which country? Answer: Seychelles (This is his first visit to India since assuming the presidency; India has gifted 10 ambulances to Seychelles during this visit.)Which Indian state recently launched "iLive Connect," the world's first doctor-led, AI-powered home healthcare ecosystem? Answer: India (National Launch) (It is designed for 24/7 medical monitoring of senior citizens and high-risk patients directly from their homes.)Who created history in domestic cricket today by becoming the first Indian to be dismissed for 299 runs in a first-class match? Answer: Sudip Gharami (The Bengal batter missed his triple century by just one run in a rare and unusual milestone.)Which Indian duo set a new World Record in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team event at the Asian Shooting Championships 2026? Answer: Arjun Babuta and Elavenil Valarivan (They scored 505 points in the final held in New Delhi, breaking the previous world record of 502.7.)What is the name of the nationwide mission launched by Shivraj Singh Chouhan to boost pulse productivity and reduce imports? Answer: Pulse Self-Reliance Mission (Launched from Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, it focuses on cluster-based production and "Seed Villages.")Which international organization recently announced a new "Virtual Museum of Stolen Cultural Objects"? Answer: UNESCO (The museum aims to raise awareness and help recover artifacts that have been illegally trafficked globally.)India has recently climbed to which rank in terms of total LEED-certified green building space globally? Answer: 2nd Place (India overtook several nations to secure the second spot, with Mainland China remaining at number one.)Which neighboring country of India has recently agreed to play a high-profile T20 World Cup match against India on February 15? Answer: Pakistan (The match is part of the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 hosted by India and Sri Lanka.)World Pulses Day: Observed on February 10; the UN recommends daily pulse consumption for protein and declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses to promote their benefits.GDP Growth Projections: Moody’s Ratings projected India’s GDP to grow at 6.4% in FY27, making it the fastest-growing G-20 economy.DII Dominance: For the first time, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) outstripped Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) in Nifty 50 holdings during the December 2025 quarter.9. Do You Know?The 299 Club: Before Sudip Gharami today, only a handful of cricketers worldwide had ever been dismissed on 299. It is considered one of the "cruelest" scores in cricket history.The Quantum Leap: India’s new Quantum Valley aims to train over 35 lakh students in quantum talent by 2035 through the WISER Quantum Talent Hub.A "Blind" Discovery: Scientists in the Western Ghats recently discovered a new species of Caecilian (limbless amphibian) named Gegeneophis valmiki. It looks like a giant earthworm but is actually a cousin of frogs!World’s Only: The NDRF (which celebrated its Raising Day recently) is the only paramilitary force in the world specifically trained and equipped to handle "Nuclear and Biological" disasters as their primary job.The Dragon of Kerala: A new dragonfly species, the Slender Bombardier (Lyriothemis keralensis), was officially documented today. It only appears during the peak monsoon and disappears as soon as the rains stop.Water Bottle Caps: Different colored caps indicate water types: clear/blue for purified, green for mineral-rich, white for standard purified, and yellow for vitamin-enhanced water.Types of Tears: Human eyes produce three types of tears: Basal (to keep eyes moist), Reflex (to wash out irritants like onions), and Emotional (which contain higher levels of prolactin).10. Job & Educational TopicsIOCL Apprenticeship: Indian Oil Corporation Limited has notified 637 Trade Apprentice posts for its Panipat Refinery; applications close February 20, 2026.CSIR-CCMB Recruitment: The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology in Hyderabad is recruiting for 80 positions including Technician and Technical Officer.EPFO UPI Withdrawals: Members will soon be able to withdraw provident funds directly via UPI through a new mobile application launching in April 2026.Skill Training Blacklist: The government has blacklisted 178 Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) centers following checks for low attendance and weak capacity building.11. Day Special: 10 FebruaryWorld Pulses Day: February 10 is celebrated annually to recognize the importance of pulses (legumes) as a global food.Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) Anniversary: IOB celebrated its 90th Foundation Day on February 10, highlighting its history of innovations like the "My Account My Name" facility.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsJapan Election Outcome: Exit polls indicate a significant victory for Sanae Takaichi’s coalition in Japan's snap elections. Her win is expected to pave the way for promised tax cuts and increased military spending aimed at countering regional threats.India-Malaysia Strategic Pivot: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim signed 11 agreements in Kuala Lumpur, covering high-priority sectors such as semiconductors, defense, security, and energy.Local Currency Trade: India and Malaysia have agreed to promote the usage of local currencies—the Indian Rupee and Malaysian Ringgit—for settling trade, aiming to reduce dependence on third-party currencies.Iran Human Rights: Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi has been sentenced to an additional seven years in an Iranian prison, following her continued activism against capital punishment.Thailand Elections: Conservative Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s party has claimed victory in national elections following a campaign focused on surging nationalism.2. National Current AffairsIndia-US Trade Interim Deal: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that negotiations for an interim trade agreement with the U.S. are "nearly complete." The deal focuses on critical commodities and technology while protecting sensitive Indian agricultural sectors.Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) Deadline: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level security meeting in Raipur, reaffirming the government's goal to completely eradicate Naxalism in India by March 31, 2026.Assam Video Controversy: The Assam unit of the BJP deleted a controversial social media video featuring Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma after it drew widespread condemnation for allegedly promoting hate.New Income Tax Act: The government has invited public feedback on the draft rules and forms for the new Income Tax Act, 2025, which is set to come into effect from April 1, 2026.Public Sector Bank Profits: Financial Services Secretary M. Nagaraju expressed confidence that the combined profits of public sector banks (PSBs) will cross the ₹2 lakh crore mark in the 2025-26 financial year.3. Science & TechnologyQuantum Valley Project: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu laid the foundation for the "Amaravati Quantum Valley," aiming to position India as a global hub for quantum computing and hardware manufacturing.Deep-Space Exploration Funding: The 2026-27 Budget has earmarked ₹13,416.20 crore for the Department of Space, with a specific focus on deep-space exploration and advanced telescope facilities in Ladakh.Anti-Droning Systems: Indrajaal has signed a major agreement with Sigma Advanced Systems for the indigenous manufacturing of counter-drone systems using specialized sensors and jamming technology.Hydrogen Fuel Innovation: Students at the Indian School of Mines (ISM) have developed a method to convert harmful greenhouse gases like methane from coal mines into eco-friendly hydrogen fuel.Cyber-Crime Increase: Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police reported a surge in "digital arrest" and investment frauds, registering 117 cases in January 2026 alone.4. States Current AffairsTelangana District Policy: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy clarified that there are currently no plans to abolish or create new districts in Telangana, dismissing rumors about the abolition of the Bhupalpally district.Andhra Pradesh TIDCO Homes: The state government announced that one lakh TIDCO houses are ready for distribution and will be handed over to beneficiaries by the Ugadi festival.Meghalaya Mining Crackdown: Following a series of accidents, Meghalaya police have been ordered to hunt down the financiers and owners of illegal rat-hole coal mines in East Jaintia Hills.Delhi Electric Bus Fleet: Delhi has inducted 500 new electric buses, bringing its total e-bus fleet to over 4,200—the highest in the country—and surpassing Maharashtra.Assam Digital Twin Project: Genesys was awarded a contract to create a "Digital Twin Map" platform for Guwahati to assist in data-driven urban planning and governance.5. District & Local NewsBird Flu Outbreak: Avian influenza has been confirmed in two villages in the Annamayya district (Andhra Pradesh), leading to the deployment of Rapid Response Teams.Srisailam Brahmotsavams: The Mahasivaratri Brahmotsavams commenced at the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam with the traditional 'Dwajarohana' ritual.Delhi Traffic Upgrade: Delhi has approved ₹100 crore for an Advanced Traffic System (ATS) to monitor roads in real-time and trigger faster emergency responses.Vijayawada River Competition: The 26th Krishna River Cross Swimming Competition was held in Vijayawada, with local authorities urging youth to take up swimming as an essential life skill.Food Poisoning Incident: Two staff members were suspended at a tribal welfare hostel in Rampachodavaram following a food poisoning incident affecting students.6. Sports & GamesDavis Cup Success: India defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in the Davis Cup, with Dhakshineswar Suresh winning the decisive fifth rubber to secure India's place in the Elite Qualifiers.T20 World Cup: England survived a scare to defeat Nepal by 4 runs in their opening match, while New Zealand comfortably beat Afghanistan by 6 wickets.Under-19 World Cup: The victorious Indian Under-19 team received a grand welcome in Mumbai; three Indian players (Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Kanishk Chouhan, and Henil Patel) were named in the Team of the Tournament.Badminton Victory: Shuttler Devika Sihag clinched her second successive international title at the Azerbaijan International tournament in Baku.Boxing Dominance: Indian boxers, led by Lovlina Borgohain and Arundhati Choudhary, clinching nine gold medals at the BOXAM Elite International tournament in Spain.7. Cinema & EntertainmentHistory Literature Festival: The festival concluded in Hyderabad with sessions exploring the evolution of Telugu cinema and its role in shaping regional identity.Film Release Updates: Actor Sharwanand’s film Biker is set to release on April 3, while Ram Charan’s Swayambhu is scheduled for April 10.Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT): The government plans to establish this institute to build capabilities in animation, visual effects, and gaming (AVGC-XR) to boost the entertainment sector.8. General Knowledge Points for Competitive JobsWhich tribal festival was recently inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh? Answer: Bastar Pandum (The festival showcases tribal handicrafts, traditional cuisine, and indigenous musical instruments from 84 different teams.)Who has been appointed as the first female Prime Minister of Japan after a historic election victory in February 2026? Answer: Sanae TakaichiWhich Union Minister recently launched the nationwide "Pulse Self-Reliance Mission" to boost domestic production and reduce imports? Answer: Shivraj Singh Chouhan (The mission focuses on cluster-based production and establishing "Seed Villages" to make India a global exporter of pulses.)Which Indian state’s women’s para-throwball team won the gold medal at the 2026 National Federation Cup? Answer: JharkhandThe "MCP Server," launched by the NSO (National Statistical Office) on 9 February 2026, is primarily designed for what purpose? Answer: To make Government Data AI-Ready (This allows researchers and policymakers to use artificial intelligence for better data analysis and governance.)Who received the prestigious Upendra Nath Brahma 'Soldier of Humanity' Award in February 2026? Answer: Bhutan’s Queen Mother, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo WangchuckWhich private sector bank has issued India’s first-ever fully digital Foreign Portfolio Investor (FPI) license? Answer: Kotak Mahindra BankAirbus recently inaugurated a "Centre of Excellence for Aerospace Studies" at which Indian university? Answer: Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara (The center will focus on research in Sustainable Aviation Fuel and future aerospace technologies.)Which project, aimed at providing 1,000 metric tons of grains for food security, was officially approved during the Seychelles President’s visit to India? Answer: India-Seychelles Food Security Partnership (The visit of President Dr. Patrick Herminie concludes on 10 February.)Which government initiative was recently recognized as a "National Movement" due to its success in improving the Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) to 929? Answer: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao SchemeUN AI Committee: Professor Balaraman Ravindran from IIT Madras has been selected for the United Nations' new independent scientific committee on Artificial Intelligence.Aadhaar Updates: UIDAI has completed one crore mandatory biometric updates for school children aged 7 to 15 years across 83,000 schools.Uniform Civil Code (UCC): RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that the UCC should be framed by taking all sections of society into confidence to preserve unity amid diversity.9. Do You Know?The "Doomsday Glacier": New satellite data released today shows that the Thwaites Glacier (Antarctica) is melting faster than expected. If it collapses completely, global sea levels could rise by over 2 feet.The 299 Record: Today, domestic cricketer Sudip Gharami became one of the few players in history to be out for 299 in a first-class match, missing the 300-mark by the narrowest possible margin.Green Aviation: The new center in Vadodara is researching how to turn municipal solid waste (your daily trash) into high-quality fuel for commercial airplanes.A "Blind" Discovery: Scientists in the Western Ghats confirmed today the discovery of a new species of Caecilian (limbless amphibian) named Gegeneophis valmiki. It looks like a giant worm but is actually a relative of the frog.National Deworming Day: Remember, tomorrow (10 February) is National Deworming Day in India, where millions of children (ages 1–19) are provided free Albendazole tablets at schools and Anganwadis.Airplane Ear: Ignoring "ear popping" or barotrauma after flights can lead to chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction and permanent hearing loss if the blockage lasts more than seven days.WhatsApp Encryption: WhatsApp’s adoption of end-to-end encryption has set a societal norm for secure communication in India, though the platform now faces scrutiny over its transition to an advertising model.10. Job & Educational TopicsScholarship Opportunities: The University College London (UCL) is offering the "India Excellence Scholarship" (£5,000), and the British Council has announced 25 fully funded "Women in STEM" scholarships for 2026-27.Educational Reform: A new circular in Uttar Pradesh directs state-run schools to allot 10 minutes in morning assemblies for reading "physical newspapers" to cultivate the habit of reading among students.AI Job Growth: Analysts predict that India could see over 20 lakh new AI-related jobs by next year, but a shortage of skilled human resources may leave half of these positions unfilled.11. Day Special: 9 FebruaryNewspaper Reading Initiative: As of February 9, schools are being encouraged to integrate physical newspaper reading into their daily routines to combat "screen addiction" and improve critical thinking skills.Foundation Days: February 9 marks the foundation day of INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services), which launched three new ocean information services including the SAMUDRA 2.0 app.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsIndia-US Interim Trade Deal: India and the US have unveiled a framework for an interim trade agreement, signaling a significant shift in bilateral relations.Removal of Russian Oil Penalty: US President Donald Trump signed an executive order lifting the 25% penalty tariff on Indian goods, which had been imposed due to India's purchase of Russian oil.Commitment to Stop Russian Oil: The US executive order claims India has committed to stop "directly or indirectly" importing Russian oil, though Indian officials maintain that energy security remains a top priority.Iran Threatens US Bases: Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned that Iran will strike US bases in the Middle East if attacked by American forces massed in the region.US-Ukraine War Deadline: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the US has proposed a June 2026 deadline for Ukraine and Russia to reach a deal to end the war.Bangladesh Election Tensions: Tarique Rahman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) rejected a "unity government" proposal from rivals, expressing confidence in winning the upcoming February 12 election solo.2. National Current AffairsSecurity Review in Chhattisgarh: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to chair a high-level security meeting to clear a roadmap for the development of Maoist-affected areas.First Dalit Cardinal Leads CBCI: Archbishop Poola Anthony of Hyderabad has been elected as the new President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), becoming the first Dalit prelate to head the body.New Income Tax Rules: The Income Tax department unveiled draft rules aimed at simplifying language and using tables/formulas for easier filing, effective from April 1, 2026.Investment in J&K Tourism: Home Minister Amit Shah assured full support for developing new tourist destinations in Jammu & Kashmir and announced efforts to secure ₹200 crore in sports investments.Muzaffarnagar Riots Case: A local court in Agra acquitted 22 individuals accused in a 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots case involving murder and arson due to a lack of evidence.3. Science & TechnologyNational Quantum Mission: The Union government has launched the National Quantum Mission with an allocation of ₹6,000 crore to position India as a global tech leader.Amaravati Quantum Valley: Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for the "Amaravati Quantum Valley" (AQV), with a goal to produce 80% of the world's quantum devices.Heavy Ion Cancer Therapy: A Japanese research team found that using heavier ions like oxygen in multi-ion cancer therapy narrows error margins by over 7%, improving treatment accuracy for radiation-resistant tumors.AI Hardware Trade: The India-US deal includes significantly increasing trade in technology products like Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and AI hardware.Microplastics in Skincare: Reports highlighted that beauty products are common sources of microplastic pollution, with liquid microplastics widely used in India as emulsion stabilizers.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Local Polls: The State Election Commission (SEC) issued notifications for preparing new voter lists for gram panchayats and municipal bodies, with final lists due by March 9, 2026.Telangana Forensic Lab Fire: A major fire broke out at the State Forensic Science Laboratory in Nampally, Hyderabad, damaging physical evidence, samples, and documents.West Bengal SIR Extension: The Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal sought a one-week extension for the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls due to a massive backlog of pending hearings.Madhya Pradesh Cheetah Births: Five new cheetah cubs were born to a Namibian cheetah named Aasha at Kuno National Park, bringing India’s total cheetah population to 35.Maharashtra BMC Elections: The Mahayuti alliance announced Ritu Tawde (BJP) as their mayoral candidate and Sanjay Shankar Ghadi (Shiv Sena-Shinde) as the deputy mayoral candidate for the BMC.5. District & Local NewsMathura Road Accident: A container truck plowed into deboarded bus passengers on the Yamuna Expressway in Mathura district, killing six people.Surajkund Fair Tragedy: An electrical swing collapsed at the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad, resulting in the death of a police inspector and injuries to 13 others.Janakpuri Pit Negligence: A 25-year-old biker died after falling into an open, unbarricaded 14-foot pit dug by a DJB sub-contractor in Janakpuri, Delhi.Food Poisoning in Polavaram: Over 70 students fell ill due to food poisoning after eating semi-cooked food at a Government Tribal Welfare Ashram School in Polavaram district.Goa Tourism Controversy: An individual was arrested in Calangute for filming a foreign tourist without consent and circulating the video on social media.6. Sports & GamesT20 World Cup Opener: India defeated the US by 29 runs in their opening match, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 84 off 49 balls.India-Pakistan Boycott Dialogue: The PCB and ICC have entered formal discussions regarding Pakistan’s threatened boycott of the February 15 clash against India in Colombo.SAFF U-19 Women’s Title: The India U-17 women's football team clinced the SAFF U-19 championship by defeating Bangladesh 4-0 in the final.Winter Olympics Controversy: Indian alpine skier Arif Khan is competing in the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, but controversy arose over the selection of other athletes despite court orders.Asian Indoor Athletics: Tejaswin Shankar leads the heptathlon field after day one at the 12th Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in China.7. Cinema & EntertainmentBhakti Music Trend: "Bhajan Clubbing" is emerging as a major trend in India's ₹20,000-crore live events industry, blending traditional kirtan with modern concert formats.Ai Weiwei Solo Show: Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei is in Delhi for his first solo exhibition in India.Kohrra 2 Narrative: The new series Kohrra is highlighted for shifting the narrative to small-town Punjab and weaving personal turmoil into murder probes.Photography Milestone: Britain-born photographer Pepita Seth, known for her work with temple and elephant communities, received her Indian citizenship after living in Kerala for 50 years.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Exams)Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently held wide-ranging talks with PM Anwar Ibrahim to boost trade and defense in which country? Answer: Malaysia (The leaders unveiled initiatives in semiconductors, defense security, and trade under the "Act East" policy.)Which Indian weightlifter shattered three National Records in the 48kg category on 8 February 2026? Answer: Mirabai Chanu (The Olympic medalist set new benchmarks in Snatch (89kg), Clean & Jerk (116kg), and Total Lift (205kg) during her transition to a lower weight class.)Which is the heaviest military communication satellite launched from Indian soil using the LVM3-M5 rocket? Answer: CMS-03 (Weighing 4,410 kg, it serves as the "Eye in the Sky" for the Indian Navy, replacing the aging GSAT-7 Rukmini.)Who won the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 title in Vadodara? Answer: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) (Captained by Smriti Mandhana, they defeated Delhi Capitals by six wickets to clinch the trophy.)Which Indian bank became the first to issue a fully digital Foreign Portfolio Investor (FPI) license? Answer: Kotak Mahindra Bank (The end-to-end online process used e-signatures, significantly easing the onboarding for foreign investors.)India won its 6th ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup title by defeating which team in the final? Answer: England (India secured a 100-run victory in the final held in Zimbabwe.)Which state government unveiled India's first women-led industrial park in Gowribidanur? Answer: Karnataka (The 50-acre park by FLO Bengaluru offers gender-centric facilities like creches and R&D centers for women entrepreneurs.)Which Indian teacher was awarded the $1 million Global Teacher Prize 2026 in Dubai? Answer: Rubal Nagi (She was honored at the World Government Summit for her exceptional contribution to education.)Who is the first Indian mountaineer to successfully summit Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere? Answer: Kabak Yano (The 27-year-old from Arunachal Pradesh reached the 22,831-foot summit as part of her "Seven Summits" quest.)Which Indian port became the first to implement an advanced 360-degree anti-drone security system? Answer: V.O. Chidambaranar Port (Tamil Nadu)Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI): Jammu & Kashmir has been brought under this scheme for the first time in FY 2025-26, allowing access to 50-year interest-free loans.Viksit Bharat 2047: The goal to transform India into a developed nation by the 100th anniversary of independence remains the central theme for the 2026-27 Union Budget.Quantum Computing Hub: Amaravati is being developed as a global hub with a "Wiser Quantum Talent Hub" to train 35 lakh students by 2035Cheetah Population in India: Following new births at Kuno, the total number of cheetahs in India stands at 35 (11 translocated, 24 Indian-born).Section 232 Investigation: This US national security law is being used to investigate imports of pharmaceuticals and other goods, affecting global trade tariffs.9. Do You Know?The "LVM3" Power: The LVM3 rocket used for CMS-03 is nicknamed "Bahubali" because it is India's most powerful launcher, capable of carrying 4-tonne class satellites to space.The 300-Million-Year-Old River: Scientists have confirmed that the Finke River in Australia is likely the world's oldest river system. It only flows a few days a year; for the rest of the time, it remains a dry bed with ancient hidden waterholes.NASA's SPHEREx: On 8 February, NASA's SPHEREx mission successfully observed the interstellar comet 3I/Atlas, helping scientists study the chemical building blocks of life beyond our solar system.Elderly Budget: Kerala has become the first state in India to announce a separate "Elderly Budget" (FY 2026-27), allocating over ₹46,000 crore specifically for senior citizen welfare.Digital Highway: The Indian Highways Management Company partnered with NFSU today to use cyber forensics to protect FASTag and traffic data from hackers.Peregrine Falcons: These are the world's fastest animals, capable of diving at speeds of up to 320 km/h.Living Root Bridges: Located in Meghalaya, these bridges are cited as powerful reminders of patience and long-term natural construction over speed.Microplastics in Skincare: Many common beauty products contain liquid microplastics used as emulsion stabilizers, which are often listed differently for different global markets.10. Job & Educational TopicsEntrance Exam Deadlines: The deadline to register for BITSAT-2026 is March 16, 2026, while the COMEDK application deadline is March 15, 2026.New B.Tech Courses: B.Tech courses in Quantum Studies are now underway at Amaravati, with M.Tech programs scheduled to launch soon.Government Hiring: Kerala IT is inviting applications for several technical positions, with more details available on the Technopark website.11. Day Special: February 8Sammakka Saralamma Jatara: The historic tribal festival at Medaram concluded with devotees performing ritual baths in the Jampanna Vagu and priests carrying the deity in a vermilion casket.Mahashivaratri Brahmotsavams: The 12-day Brahmotsavam at Srisailam began today with "Yagasala Pravesam" and "Dwajarohanam" ceremonies.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsIndia-US Trade Deal: US President Donald Trump announced a historic agreement to reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, aiming to unlock major "Make in India" opportunities.Energy Import Shift: Under the new trade terms, India has reportedly agreed to halt purchases of Russian oil, instead increasing energy imports from the US and potentially VenezuelaIslamabad Mosque Attack: A devastating suicide bombing at a Shia mosque during Friday prayers in Islamabad, Pakistan, resulted in at least 31 deaths and 169 injuries.China Nuclear Allegations: The US government accused China of conducting secret underground nuclear tests in 2020, reiterating calls for a new trilateral arms pact including Russia.Iran-US Dialogue: The Iranian President has ordered the resumption of direct nuclear negotiations with the United States to address regional disputes.US Winter Storm: Over 9,000 flights were cancelled as a massive winter storm hit the United States, leaving millions without power and disrupting major transport arteries.2. National Current AffairsAbujmarh Encounter: Security forces killed seven Maoists, including a top PLGA fighter named Prabhakar who carried a ₹25 lakh bounty, during a 22-hour operation in Chhattisgarh.Supreme Court Abortion Ruling: The SC allowed a 30-week pregnant minor to terminate her pregnancy, ruling that a woman cannot be compelled to give birth against her will.RBI Policy Stance: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.15%, maintaining a "neutral" stance.Padma Awards: The government announced 131 Padma awards for 2026, including Padma Vibhushan for veteran actor Dharmendra and former Kerala CM V.S. Achuthanandan (posthumous).PFC-REC Merger: The board of Power Finance Corporation (PFC) approved its merger with subsidiary REC Ltd to improve the efficiency of state-owned NBFCs.Bharat Taxi Launch: Union Minister Amit Shah inaugurated "Bharat Taxi," a zero-commission, cooperative-led mobility platform starting in Delhi-NCR and Gujarat.3. Science & TechnologyAmaravati Quantum Valley: CM Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister Jitendra Singh laid the foundation for India's first Quantum Ecosystem in Amaravati, featuring an IBM Quantum System 2.SpaceX-xAI Merger: Reports indicate that Elon Musk is in advanced discussions to merge his aerospace giant SpaceX with his artificial intelligence startup, xAI.Alzheimer’s AI Test: A new AI-integrated blood biomarker test has been introduced in India for the early and more accurate detection of Alzheimer’s disease.Sonic Boom Research: Scientists have successfully used seismic sensors on the ground to track and analyze sonic booms from space debris entering the atmosphere.T-Cell Therapy Advance: Researchers at IIT Bombay developed 3D fibrous scaffolds to more effectively collect intact T-cells for advanced cancer therapies.Hypersonic Missile Debut: DRDO’s Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) will be a major highlight of the upcoming 77th Republic Day parade.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Investment: CM Naidu announced that AP has secured approximately ₹20 lakh crore in investment commitments over the last 18 months.Kerala Organ Transplant Institute: The government is establishing the Kerala Institute of Organ & Tissue Transplant (KIOTT) in Kozhikode, the first of its kind in India.UP AI Mission: Uttar Pradesh launched a ₹2,000 crore mission to establish 65 Data & AI labs focused on revolutionizing healthcare and governance.Telangana Ration Cards: The state government announced the issuance of new white ration cards and provided free power up to 200 units to eligible households.Punjab Political Murder: AAP functionary Satwinderpal Singh (Lucky Oberoi) was gunned down outside a gurdwara in Jalandhar; Opposition parties have slammed the state’s law and order.Manipur Protests: Massive rallies were held in Manipur’s hill districts opposing the inclusion of Kuki-Zo MLAs in the newly formed BJP-led government.5. District & Local NewsDelhi Pipeline Fatality: A 25-year-old bank employee died after his motorcycle fell into an uncovered 14-foot construction pit in Janakpuri; an FIR has been filed against the Delhi Jal Board.Tirumala Ratha Saptami: Around 1.50 lakh devotees attended the Ratha Saptami celebrations at Tirumala, witnessing Lord Malayappa Swamy’s procession on seven vahanas.Eluru Tiger Alert: Forest officials in Eluru identified a male tiger crossing from Telangana and issued high alerts for local forest-fringe villages.Surat Bullet Train Accident: A man and his daughter were killed near Surat when a heavy metal plate fell from an under-construction bullet train bridge.Hyderabad Infrastructure: HMDA planned a 9-km elevated corridor in Western Hyderabad costing ₹1,656 crore to ease persistent traffic congestion.Kurnool Medical Drone: Students from IIITDM Kurnool showcased drone prototypes designed for flight control and air traffic monitoring during a major aviation expo.6. Sports & GamesUnder-19 World Cup Champions: India defeated England by 100 runs in Harare to claim their sixth U19 World Cup title; 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi scored a record 175 off 80 balls.T20 World Cup Kick-off: The ICC Men's T20 World Cup began today (Feb 7) in India and Sri Lanka; India faces the USA in its opening Group A fixture at the Wankhede Stadium.Novak Djokovic Record: Djokovic became the first tennis player in history to achieve 400 match wins across Grand Slam tournaments.WPL Season Leaders: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) continues to dominate the standings in the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 season.Tennis Recognition: Indian tennis legend Vijay Amritraj was honored with the Padma Bhushan for his lifelong contribution to the sport.Cricket Padma Shri: Indian captains Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur were officially announced as recipients of the Padma Shri award.7. Cinema & EntertainmentSpiritual Singer Award: Spiritual singer Garimella Balakrishna Prasad was posthumously honored with the Padma Shri for his contribution to music.Visakha Utsav: The annual cultural festival "Visakha Utsav" began in Visakhapatnam, celebrating the region's heritage with grand beach-front events.KRK Arrested: Mumbai police arrested actor Kamaal Rashid Khan (KRK) in connection with a firing incident in Oshiwara, which he claimed was accidental.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Jobs)Which state government recently signed a tripartite agreement with the Centre and the ENPO to form the 'Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority' (FNTA)? Answer: Nagaland (The agreement represents eight Naga tribes from six eastern districts to provide them with more administrative autonomy.)Who recently became the youngest man in history to complete a career Grand Slam by winning the Australian Open 2026? Answer: Carlos Alcaraz (The 22-year-old Spaniard defeated Novak Djokovic in the final to secure his first Australian Open title and his 7th Grand Slam overall.)Which Union Minister recently launched 'Bharat Taxi,' India’s first cooperative-sector ride-hailing service? Answer: Amit Shah (Launched in New Delhi, the platform follows the principle of 'Sarathi Hi Malik,' placing drivers at the center of ownership.)India recently joined the UN 'Honour Roll' after paying how much to the United Nations Regular Budget for 2026? Answer: USD 35.18 million (India is among 52 member states that have paid their regular budget dues in full and on time.)The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has recently increased the age limit for startup recognition to how many years? Answer: 20 years (Previously it was 10 years; the turnover limit for startups has also been increased to ₹300 crore.)Which state CM recently unveiled a NITI Aayog-backed economic plan for the 'Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradeep Economic Region' (BCPPER)? Answer: Odisha (CM Mohan Charan Majhi) (The plan aims to transform the region into a major hub for economic growth in Eastern India.)Who has taken over the charge as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NHPC Limited in February 2026? Answer: Bhupender Gupta (He is also holding the additional charge of CMD for SJVN Limited.)Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered two new species of marine worms in which region recently? Answer: Bay of Bengal (West Bengal coast) (The species are named Namalycastis solenotognatha and Nereis dhritiae.)Which Indian city recently hosted the 'Black Swan Summit India 2026,' focusing on digital finance and jobs? Answer: Bhubaneswar (The summit saw participation from leaders discussing the future of the digital economy.)Who is the current Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of India as of February 2026? Answer: General Upendra DwivediEconomic Outlook: The RBI raised India’s FY26 GDP growth projection to 7.4%, citing resilient domestic consumption and manufacturing.Consumer Price Index (CPI): The RBI projected CPI inflation at 4.0% for the first quarter of 2026-27.9. Do You Know?The Career Slam Record: At 22, Carlos Alcaraz is now the youngest male player ever to win all four Grand Slams (Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open), breaking the previous records of legends like Nadal and Federer.The "Sarathi" Model: Unlike other taxi apps, Bharat Taxi is a cooperative. Drivers are called 'Sarathis' and have specific features like 'Sarathi Didi,' a dedicated window for women passengers to choose women drivers.Biological Indicators: The new marine worms discovered in West Bengal are bioindicators; they live in heavily polluted, sulfide-rich mudflats and help scientists monitor the health of our coastal environments.Startup Lifespan: By extending startup recognition to 20 years, India now has one of the longest support windows for new companies in the world, specifically helping "deep-tech" firms that take a long time to develop.Voter AI Audit: An AI audit of voter lists in West Bengal found a single man registered as the "father" for 389 different voters.10. Job & Educational Topics (New Updates)AP EAPCET 2026: Applications for the Engineering and Agriculture entrance exam must be submitted by March 7, 2026, with results expected on June 1.SAIL Leadership Recruitment: The PESB has invited applications for the post of Chairman and Managing Director of SAIL.Aviation Sector Vacancies: There are currently 2,645 vacant positions across the Airports Authority of India and other aviation regulators.NEET PG Cut-off Case: The Supreme Court sought justification from the medical board for reducing the NEET PG 2025-26 cut-off to zero, allowing candidates with no marks to qualify.PM Internship Stipend: The government is considering a proposal to increase the monthly stipend for the PM Internship Scheme to ₹11,800.RBI Office Attendants: The deadline for applications for 572 Office Attendant posts in the RBI is February 4, 2026.11. Day Special: 7 FebruaryT20 World Cup Launch: Today marks the official commencement of the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka.Amrit Udyan Opening: The famous Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan opened to the general public today, showcasing 85 species of flowers.Centenary of Makwar Dam: February 7, 2026, marks 100 years since the opening of the Makwar Dam on the Blue Nile, which transformed irrigation in Sudan.Northeast Monsoon Withdrawal: The IMD has officially declared the complete withdrawal of the 2025 Northeast Monsoon from the Indian peninsula.Global Solar Expo: A two-day Global Solar Expo began today at the Hitex Exhibition Center in Hyderabad, focusing on decarbonization and net-zero goals.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsTrump-India Trade Breakthrough: Following a significant bilateral deal, reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods have been slashed from 50% to 18%, potentially unlocking unprecedented opportunities for "Make in India" initiatives.Russian Oil Shift: As part of the new U.S.-India trade terms, India has reportedly agreed to transition away from Russian oil imports in favor of energy from the U.S. and potentially Venezuela.U.K. Diplomatic Apology: British PM Keir Starmer issued a formal apology to victims of Jeffrey Epstein for the controversial appointment of Peter Mandelson as the U.K. ambassador to Washington.Netherlands Military Move: Queen Máxima of the Netherlands has officially enlisted in the Dutch army as a reservist, signaling a broader European trend to strengthen local armed forces.U.S.-Russia Security Dialogue: The Pentagon announced that the U.S. and Russia have agreed to re-establish high-level military-to-military dialogue hours after the expiry of their last nuclear arsenal limit treaty.Missing Merchant Navy Cadet: A massive search is underway for Sarthak Mohapatra, an Indian merchant navy cadet from Odisha who went missing from a vessel in international waters near Mauritius.2. National Current AffairsFrontier Nagaland Authority: A landmark tripartite pact was signed between the Centre, the Nagaland government, and the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation to create a separate "Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority" for six districts.PM Slams Opposition in RS: During a 97-minute speech in the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Modi heavily criticized the Congress party, particularly regarding a "traitor" comment directed at a Sikh MP, terming it an insult to the entire community.Meghalaya Mining Tragedy: A suspected dynamite blast at an illegal rat-hole coal mine in East Jaintia Hills killed 18 miners and left several others trapped.Customs Duty Tweaks: The Centre has revised customs duties on various inputs, a move expected to lower costs and scale up production for India Inc. in sectors like aviation, durables, and nuclear power.DA Payment Directive: The Supreme Court directed the West Bengal government to pay pending Dearness Allowance (DA) to its employees for the 2008–2019 period, stating lack of funds is not a valid excuse.Bharat Taxi Launch: Union Minister Amit Shah inaugurated "Bharat Taxi," India’s first cooperative-led, zero-commission, and surge-free mobility platform starting in Delhi-NCR and Gujarat.3. Science & TechnologyGoogle AI Dominance: Reports for 2025 show Google Cloud growing by 48%, outpacing its rivals and pulling ahead of OpenAI in terms of enterprise AI adoption.Non-Animal Drug Testing: A new report indicates that shifting to non-animal methods (NAMs) like organ-on-chip and AI models could reduce drug development costs by up to 90%.SpaceX-xAI Merger: Elon Musk is reportedly in advanced discussions to merge his aerospace firm, SpaceX, with his artificial intelligence venture, xAI.Nuclear Manufacturing PLI: The government is finalized a ₹20,000 crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme specifically for the localization of nuclear power components.Boeing Safety Concern: Air India grounded a Dreamliner (VT-ANX) following an uncommanded fuel switch cut-off at London Heathrow, leading to a new probe into the aircraft’s systems.Battery Energy Storage in Telangana: TGGENCO has invited bids for the selection of developers for 1000 MW standalone Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at various locations.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Water Governance: CM Chandrababu Naidu announced that irrigation associations will now be partners in water management, allowing them to collect water tax and perform maintenance without GST.UP AI Mission: Uttar Pradesh launched a specialized mission with a ₹2,000 crore outlay to set up 65 Data & AI labs focused on healthcare and governance.Kerala Waqf Board Reconstitution: The Kerala government reconstituted its Waqf Board but notably left two seats reserved for non-Muslims vacant to signal a cautious approach to recent legislative changes.Manipur Total Shutdown: Kuki-Zo tribal groups enforced a dawn-to-dusk "total shutdown" in the hills to protest the participation of certain tribal MLAs in the newly formed state government.Telangana Asiatic Lion Count: The population of Asiatic lions in India has reportedly increased from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025, with new habitats identified in river corridors and forest areas.Maharashtra Solar Tender: MSRDC has invited tenders for 44 MW cumulative solar PV plants to be installed along the Samruddhi Mahamarg highway.5. District & Local NewsRajamahendravaram Tiger Alert: A sub-adult male tiger was spotted wandering on the outskirts of the city, causing panic and prompting a high alert from forest officials.Hyderabad Traffic Blasting: The next stage of a major road project near the Trident Hotel in Hyderabad will involve controlled blasting of stone outcrops during night hours to create new lanes.Rajghat U-Turn Trial: The PWD plans a trial U-turn on Ring Road from Rajghat to alleviate persistent traffic congestion in the national capital.Surat Bullet Train Accident: A man and his nine-year-old daughter were killed near Surat after a heavy metal plate fell from an under-construction bullet train bridge.Dundigal Arrest: Police arrested a domestic worker based on CCTV footage for the murder of an elderly woman and the theft of gold ornaments in Church Gagillapur.Guntur Tender Eligibility: The state government clarified that small hot-mix plant owners are now eligible for road repair and manual maintenance tenders to encourage local contractors.6. Sports & GamesAnurag Thakur SC Reprieve: The Supreme Court annulled its nine-year-old order, allowing former BCCI president Anurag Thakur to once again involve himself in the board's affairs.WPL Title Winner: RCB (Royal Challengers Bangalore) defeated Delhi Capitals to win their second Women’s Premier League (WPL) title.Australian Open Record: Carlos Alcaraz reached his 14th Grand Slam quarterfinal, becoming the first man under 23 years of age to achieve this feat.U19 World Cup Final: Indian skipper Ayush Mhatre expressed confidence ahead of the summit clash against England following India’s semifinal victory over Afghanistan.Ranji Trophy Results: Andhra moved to the top of the Group table after a commanding 8-wicket victory over Vidarbha.BCCI Contract Grading: Reports suggest the BCCI may remove the 'A+' grade in player contracts, transitioning to a simplified A, B, and C system for the 2025-26 season.7. Cinema & EntertainmentActor Chandrahas Booked: Madhapur police registered a case against actor Chandrahas following a complaint regarding social media threats issued to a journalist.Oscars Nominations Record: The film Sinners by Ryan Coogler has set a new record by securing 16 nominations for the 98th Academy Awards.Space Zen Chandrayaan: A new documentary series titled Space Zen Chandrayaan is set to premiere on JioHotstar.Visakha Utsav Begin: The annual cultural festival "Visakha Utsav" kicked off in Visakhapatnam, celebrating the region's diverse heritage.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Exams)Which joint military exercise between India and Kyrgyzstan recently commenced in Misamari, Assam? Answer: Exercise KHANJAR-XIII (This is the 13th edition of the annual exercise focusing on special forces operations in urban and counter-terrorism scenarios.)Which state's Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary recorded over five lakh birds in its latest 2026 census? Answer: Gujarat (The sanctuary saw a 21% rise in bird population due to reduced human noise and no boating activities over the last two years.)India recently joined which BRICS body to support industrial manufacturing and MSMEs? Answer: BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC) (An agreement was signed between the DPIIT and UNIDO to formalize India’s participation.)Which district has become the first in India to achieve 100% insurance coverage across a set of villages? Answer: Alwar (Rajasthan) (The achievement covers nine villages where all eligible adults are now insured following saturation surveys.)Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently launched "Bharat Taxi." What is unique about this platform? Answer: It is India’s first government-backed cooperative ride-hailing platform. (The model follows the slogan "Sarathi hi malik," making the drivers owners of the cooperative.)India recently signed the "Terms of Reference" (ToR) to resume Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks with which six-nation group? Answer: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) (The group includes Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain.)Which Indian space organization is readying the launch of "Gisat-1A" (EOS-05) to enhance geo-imaging capabilities? Answer: ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)Who inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for aerospace studies at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya in Vadodara? Answer: Airbus (The partnership offers scholarships to underprivileged students, with a focus on women in aerospace.)Which bank launched "Rooftop Solar Finance" to provide collateral-free loans up to ₹2 crores for MSMEs? Answer: Axis BankWho has been appointed as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, triggering recent news discussions? Answer: Nemcha KipgenArticle 160: This Constitutional provision empowers the President to issue directions for the discharge of a Governor's functions in specific contingencies.Asiatic Lion Population: The count has reached 891 as of 2025, showing significant growth from the 2020 figure of 674.PET Bottle Livelihoods: In India, PET bottle collection accounts for over 50% of daily earnings for an estimated 3-4 million informal waste pickers.9. Do You Know?The $800 Billion Man: This week, Elon Musk officially became the first individual on Earth to cross a net worth of $800 billion, rewritten the global wealth rankings.The "Nal" in Nalsarovar: The name "Nalsarovar" literally translates to "Tap Lake." It is a natural shallow lake with 36 small islands (islets) that host over 200 species of birds.Dubai's Underground Loop: Dubai is set to become the second city (after Las Vegas) to launch the "Dubai Loop," an underground high-speed transport system developed by Elon Musk's Boring Company.Winter Olympics: The 2026 Winter Olympics are currently ongoing in Milan and Cortina, Italy, showcasing elite athletes in snow and ice sports.Broken Arrow Incidents: This is the U.S. military term for accidents involving nuclear weapons, such as the 1956 loss of a hydrogen bomb off the coast of Georgia.Sonic Boom Seismometers: Scientists have successfully used seismic sensors on the ground to track and analyze the reentry of space debris into the atmosphere.Deep Tech Startup Definition: The government has introduced a new official recognition for "Deep Tech Startups" that work on cutting-edge, breakthrough technologies.10. Job & Educational Topics (New Updates)AP Entrance Exam Dates: Applications for AP EAPCET (Engineering/Agriculture) must be submitted by March 7, with results on June 1. The deadline for ECET and ICET is March 2, 2026.Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Vacancies: There are currently 787 vacancies at the DGCA, largely due to a massive restructuring between 2022 and 2024.Airports Authority of India (AAI) Hiring: A total of 2,645 positions are vacant across the AAI and other aviation regulators.SAIL CMD Post: The government headhunter (PESB) has invited applications for the post of Chairman and Managing Director of SAIL.AI Job Outlook: A Bain & Company report estimates that India could face over 2.3 million AI job openings by 2027, against a supply of only 1.2 million qualified professionals.UP Data & AI Labs: As part of the new AI Mission, the UP government is establishing 65 Data & AI labs which will require specialized technical staff.Viksit Bharat Rural Jobs: The new VB-GRAM G Act, 2025, now provides a legal guarantee for 125 days of wage employment for rural households.11. Day Special: 6 FebruaryHistorical Figure: Today is the birth anniversary of Zsa Zsa Gabor (born February 6, 1917), the famous Hungarian-American socialite and actor.Centenary of Makwar Dam: February 2026 marks 100 years since the opening of the Makwar Dam on the Blue Nile, which revolutionized irrigation in Sudan.Global Solar Expo: The two-day Global Solar Expo begins today (Feb 6-7) at the Hitex Exhibition Center in Hyderabad, focusing on decarbonization and net-zero goals.Nanda Devi Plutonium Mission Anniversary: Historical records highlight a 1965 secret mission by the CIA and Indian Intelligence to install a plutonium-powered device on Nanda Devi.
Authored By : K Shiva1. International Current AffairsIndia-U.S. Trade Deal: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington to welcome the new trade agreement.Tariff Reduction: The deal includes a reduction in U.S. tariffs on Indian goods to 18%, down from 50%, and the cancellation of a 25% penalty tariff for purchasing Russian oil.Critical Minerals Cooperation: Both nations agreed to formalize cooperation on critical minerals and advance their economic partnership.Russian Oil Imports: India's imports of Russian crude declined by 9% in January as New Delhi moved to halt purchases as part of the U.S. trade agreement.Quad Cooperation: Jaishankar and Rubio discussed expanding bilateral and multilateral cooperation through the Quad to ensure a prosperous Indo-Pacific region.2. National Current AffairsManipur President's Rule Ends: President's Rule in Manipur was revoked after nearly a year, with Yumnam Khemchand Singh sworn in as the new Chief Minister.New Manipur Cabinet: Nemcha Kipgen (Kuki-Zo) and Losii Dikho (Naga) were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers to ensure inclusive governance.Mamata Banerjee in Supreme Court: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee appeared in the Supreme Court to appeal against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, citing a threat to democracy.Parliamentary Logjam: Proceedings in Parliament were disrupted as the Opposition demanded the Leader of the Opposition be allowed to speak on the India-China conflict and other sensitive issuesCaste Census Notification: The Union Home Ministry informed the Rajya Sabha that questions on caste for the 2027 Census will be notified before the second phase of operations.3. Science & TechnologyNASA Moon Mission Delay: NASA delayed the launch of its first crewed flyby mission to the moon (Artemis 2) until March due to hydrogen leaks during final tests.Undiagnosed Disease Hackathon: India’s first 'Undiagnosed Disease Hackathon' began in Hyderabad, with 100 experts analyzing complex patient cases using whole-genome data.AI for Policing: The Andhra Pradesh DGP launched the 'AI4AP Police' project, integrating eight AI tools to address challenges like grievance redressal and data analysis.Quantum Education Milestone: Over 1.04 lakh students in Andhra Pradesh have enrolled in the Quantum Programme under NPTEL, marking a major milestone in tech educationMummified Cheetahs Discovery: Scientists discovered seven naturally mummified cheetahs in Saudi Arabian caves, providing insights into the historical distribution of the species.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Water Policy: The A.P. government is set to launch the Water Policy 2026-27 to make the state drought-resilient and ensure equitable water allocation.Telangana Rythu Bharosa: CM Revanth Reddy announced that ₹29,000 crore would be disbursed to farmers under the Rythu Bharosa scheme after the municipal elections.Kerala Assembly Resolution: The Kerala Assembly passed a resolution slamming the Centre for neglecting the state's demands, including an AIIMS and a high-speed rail corridor, in the Union Budget.Karnataka MGNREGA Resolution: The Karnataka government passed a resolution opposing the repeal of the MGNREGA Act and its replacement with the VB-GRAM G Act.Inter-State Staff Transfers: Updates by the A.P. government on inter-state staff transfers have raised concerns among Telangana employees regarding seniority and promotion chances.5. District & Local NewsGhaziabad Tragedy: Three minor sisters jumped to their deaths from a ninth-floor balcony in Ghaziabad after their parents restricted their mobile phone usage.Tiger Menace in Telangana: A wandering tiger has killed eight cattle in three weeks across the Yadadri, Siddipet, and Janagaon districts.Child Labour Crackdown: 674 children were rescued and 189 persons arrested during 'Operation Smile-XII' in the Malkajgiri area of Hyderabad.Fake Currency Busted: Police in Machilipatnam busted a counterfeit currency racket, arresting four people and seizing notes with a face value of ₹76 lakh.Heritage Run in Hyderabad: A 21k half marathon and heritage run are scheduled for February 22 in Hyderabad to celebrate the city’s cultural legacy.6. Sports & GamesT20 World Cup Countdown: Group D is identified as highly competitive with South Africa, New Zealand, and Afghanistan vying for top spots in the upcoming tournament.U-19 World Cup: Aaron George's century and fifties from Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre propelled India into the ICC Under-19 World Cup finalAsian Shooting Championship: Hyderabad shooter Esha Singh won the gold medal in the women's 10m air pistol event at the Asian meet.National Weightlifting: Mirabai Chanu set three new national records in the women's 48kg category on the opening day of the championships.WPL Title Decider: Jemimah Rodrigues’ Delhi Capitals are set to face Smriti Mandhana’s Royal Challengers Bangalore in a crucial title match.7. Cinema & EntertainmentGaddar Film Awards: The screening process for the Gaddar Film Awards begins on February 6, with the ceremony scheduled for March 19.Actor Chiranjeevi’s Outreach: On World Cancer Day, actor Chiranjeevi interacted with survivors, emphasizing that early detection enables a return to normal life.Padma Shri Recognition: Actor G. Rajendra Prasad was congratulated by Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan for his selection for the Padma Shri award.Cinema Hub Aspirations: The Telangana government aims to transform Hyderabad into the country’s leading hub for cinema production.8. General Knowledge for Competitive JobsUnion Minister Amit Shah officially launched which cooperative-led ride-hailing platform in New Delhi today? Answer: Bharat Taxi (It is India's first cooperative-based taxi service where drivers, called 'Sarathis', are the owners. It operates on a zero-commission and surge-free pricing model.)Who has been appointed as the new Chief Minister of Manipur, taking the oath on 4-5 February 2026? Answer: Yumnam Khemchand Singh (His appointment follows the end of President's Rule in the state, succeeding N. Biren Singh.)Which major international exhibition, themed "Bharat Next," was inaugurated at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, today? Answer: PLASTINDIA 2026 (It is one of the world's largest plastics exhibitions and is uniquely organized as a "Zero-Waste" global event.)A historic tripartite agreement was signed today in Delhi for the creation of which administrative authority in Nagaland? Answer: Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) (The agreement was signed between the Union Home Ministry, the Nagaland Government, and the Eastern Nagaland People's Organisation - ENPO.)India and the United States recently announced a major trade deal. By how much has the US reduced tariffs on Indian goods? Answer: From 50% to 18% (Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the legal agreement for this "Mother of all deals" will be finalized by mid-March 2026.)Which Indian shooter won the gold medal in the women's individual 10m air pistol event at the Asian Championship today? Answer: Esha Singh (The Olympian also helped the Indian home team secure another top-podium finish in the team event.)Which international nuclear arms control treaty between the U.S. and Russia is set to expire today, 5 February 2026? Answer: New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) (Its expiration without a replacement raises global concerns about a potential new nuclear arms race.)Who made history this week by becoming the first person to reach a personal net worth of $800 billion? Answer: Elon Musk (The surge is linked to the soaring valuations of his companies, specifically SpaceX and XAI.)Which Indian mountaineer recently achieved the milestone of summiting Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Southern and Western Hemispheres? Answer: Kabak Yano (She is a renowned climber from Arunachal Pradesh.)Who secured a landslide victory in the Japanese general elections on 8 February (preceded by news today), becoming the first female Prime Minister of Japan? Answer: Sanae TakaichiArticle 15 of the Constitution: This article prohibits discrimination by the State on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.Fiscal Consolidation: The Union Budget 2026-27 targets a fiscal deficit to GDP ratio reduction, with an ultimate goal of reaching 3%.Critical Mineral Supply Chains: India is working to join international groupings to de-risk supply chains and secure semiconductor routes.National Security Act (NSA): This law empowers the government to detain individuals to prevent actions prejudicial to national defense.Quantum Technology: Fields like quantum computing and communication are predicted to be major global influences in the coming years.9. Do You Know?The "Sarathi" Model: Unlike traditional apps like Uber or Ola, Bharat Taxi doesn't take a commission from drivers. Instead, it prioritizes the social security of drivers, including health and accident insurance for their families.The Zero-Waste Milestone: PLASTINDIA 2026 is the first time a global exhibition of this scale has committed to being "Zero-Waste," meaning every bit of solid waste generated will be recycled or reused.World Nutella Day: Today, 5 February, is globally celebrated as World Nutella Day! It was started in 2007 by an American blogger living in Italy.A "Light-Day" Closer: As NASA's Voyager 1 speeds away, scientists noted today that it is getting closer to the historic milestone of being one "light-day" (26 billion km) away from Earth.Meghalaya Mine Tragedy: In a somber note, a blast at an illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, claimed 18 lives today, highlighting the ongoing dangers of "rat-hole" mining.Indian Time Zone: The meridian for Indian Standard Time (IST) passes through a fort in Uttar Pradesh.Time Zone Record: France holds the record for the country with the most time zones (12) due to its overseas territoriesAsiatic Cheetah Status: The Asiatic cheetah is critically endangered, with a very small surviving population in Iran.10. Job & Educational TopicsUGC Regulations Stayed: The Supreme Court has stayed the UGC’s revised equity framework due to concerns over the definition of caste-based discrimination.TGPSC Protests: Hundreds of aspirants protested in Hyderabad demanding the immediate announcement of a recruitment job calendar.Contractual Teacher Issues: Nearly half the staff in 1.5 lakh schools nationwide are contract teachers, leading to protests for job regularization in places like Puducherry.Higher Education Internships: Uttar Pradesh has introduced paid internships (CMAPS-HE) for final-year students with a dedicated budget of ₹100 crore.Consulting Job Openings: The A.P. Economic Development Board (APEDB) has invited applications for various senior consulting positions.11. Day Special: February 5World Cancer Day Follow-up: Hospitals across Hyderabad and Vijayawada continued activities following World Cancer Day (Feb 4), focusing on early detection and screening.Historical Milestone (1926): Exactly 100 years ago today, a new method for fruit storage was discovered to allow tropical fruits to be imported into England without quality loss.Atomic Energy Progress (1976): 50 years ago, India's Atomic Energy Commission highlighted the integrated program that led to the successful peaceful underground nuclear experiment in 1974.
1. International Current AffairsIndia-US Trade Deal: US President Donald Trump announced a significant reduction in tariffs on Indian goods, slashing them from 50% to 18%.Oil Import Shift: Following the trade deal, India has agreed to stop importing oil from Russia and will instead increase imports from the United States and Venezuela.Iran-US Relations: Iran's President has expressed support for holding "fair and equitable" talks with the United States to resolve long-standing tensions.Disney Leadership: Disney has named Josh D’Amaro as the new CEO to lead the company in the post-Bob Iger era.Global Social Media Regulations: Spain and Greece have proposed a ban on social media usage for children under the age of 16 to protect mental health.Earthquake in Myanmar: A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, with tremors felt across parts of India (Kolkata) and Bangladesh.2. National Current AffairsManipur Leadership Change: Yumnam Khemchand Singh (62) has been elected as the leader of the BJP legislative party and is set to be the new Chief Minister of Manipur.First Female Deputy CM for Manipur: Nemcha Kipgen, from the Kuki-Zho community, is set to become Manipur’s first female Deputy Chief Minister.Parliamentary Suspensions: Eight opposition MPs were suspended from the Budget session following protests over a discussion regarding former Army Chief Naravane's book.Death Penalty Study: A NALSAR study revealed that while trial courts sentenced 1,310 people to death over the last decade, High Courts confirmed the penalty for only 70 individuals.ED Conviction Rate: The government informed Parliament that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has a conviction rate of 94.82% in money laundering cases registered since 2020.Digital Arrest Scams: A 73-year-old retiree in Gujarat was kept under "digital arrest" for over a month by cybercriminals, who extorted ₹48 lakh from him.3. Science & TechnologySFDR Flight Test: India successfully flight-tested the 'Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet' (SFDR) technology off the coast of Odisha, enhancing long-range air-to-air missile capabilities.Health Tech Innovation: A student from Jabalpur developed a "Sweat Band" that detects internal body changes and potential illnesses through sweat analysis.Low-Cost Cardiac Tech: BITS Pilani-Hyderabad, in collaboration with an Australian university, has developed affordable cardiac diagnostic technology.WhatsApp Privacy Warning: The Supreme Court of India issued a stern warning to Meta and WhatsApp regarding their data-sharing policies and user privacy.Home Cancer Kits: A new home-testing kit for the preliminary detection of breast and cervical cancer has been developed by Dr. Sayantani.4. States Current AffairsBihar Budget 2026-27: Finance Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav presented a ₹3.47 lakh crore budget, with the highest allocation (17.32%) going to the education sector.Andhra Pradesh (Polavaram): The AP government aims to dedicate the Polavaram project to the nation by the time of the Godavari Pushkarams in June 2027.Telangana Health Trends: Data shows a steady rise in cancer cases in Telangana, increasing from 40,177 in 2015 to 52,334 in 2024.Karnataka Assembly Resolution: The Karnataka Assembly passed a resolution against the Centre’s new employment guarantee act (VB-GRAM G).Odisha Tech Summit: Bhubaneswar is set to host the 'Black Swan Summit' on February 5-6, focusing on AI and Fintech innovations.5. District & Local NewsAmaravati Land Pooling: The Centre clarified that it has not conducted any review of the land pooling in Amaravati, as it is a state government program.Dugarajapatnam Port: The AP Cabinet has cleared ₹544 crore for land acquisition for the Dugarajapatnam Port.Hyderabad Civic Polls: CM Revanth Reddy is set to launch the municipal election campaign from Miryalaguda today.Vizag Steel Plant: RINL (Vizag Steel) has achieved 95% production capacity, signaling a turnaround from its recent financial losses.6. Sports & GamesU-19 World Cup: England defeated Australia by 27 runs in the first semi-final to secure their spot in the final.India vs Afghanistan: The second semi-final of the U-19 World Cup between India and Afghanistan is scheduled for today.WPL 2026: Delhi Capitals stormed into their fourth consecutive final after defeating Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator.Cricket Rule Changes: The MCC has introduced a rule (effective October) making it mandatory to play until the last ball on the final day of long-format matches.7. Cinema & EntertainmentOTT Releases: Teasers for 'Takshakudu' (Anand Deverakonda) and 'Musafir' were released on Netflix.Global Recognition: The documentary 'The Elephant Whisperers' continues to be cited as a benchmark for Indian storytelling on the global stage.Industry Trends: Experts are noting a significant scale-up in the production quality of Indian digital content for global audiences.8. General Knowledge for Competitive JobsWhich major global health awareness day is observed today, 4 February? Answer: World Cancer Day (The theme for 2026 is "United by Unique," emphasizing personalized care and recognizing the unique lived experience of every patient.)Who became the youngest man to achieve a "Career Grand Slam" by winning the Australian Open 2026 on February 1? Answer: Carlos Alcaraz (The 22-year-old Spaniard defeated Novak Djokovic in a thrilling four-set final to secure his first Australian Open title.)The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has notified which new rules to simplify international passenger clearance? Answer: Baggage Rules, 2026 (Under these rules, the duty-free allowance for Indian residents and tourists returning from abroad has been increased to ₹75,000.)Which Indian state has announced the introduction of "Garbh Sanskar" (education in the womb) in all its universities? Answer: Madhya Pradesh (CM Mohan Yadav announced that special rooms will also be set up in government hospitals for this initiative.)India and which international organization recently launched a new "Country Partnership Framework" to boost jobs and economic growth? Answer: World Bank (The World Bank also approved an $830 million loan for the PM-SETU program to upgrade Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).)Which airport was recently renamed as "Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Airport" by Prime Minister Narendra Modi? Answer: Adampur Airport (Punjab)Which country celebrates its Independence Day today, 4 February? Answer: Sri Lanka (It marks the 78th anniversary of its independence from British rule in 1948.)The Ministry of Statistics (MoSPI) has recently revised the Consumer Price Index (CPI) base year to which year? Answer: 2024 (The weight of "Food & Beverages" has been reduced from 45.86% to 36.75% to reflect modern consumption patterns.)Which AI-powered digital accounting app was recently launched in Andhra Pradesh to simplify financial management for small businesses? Answer: Pilloo AIIndia recently elevated its bilateral relationship to a "Strategic Partnership" with which East African nation? Answer: Tanzania (India is currently Tanzania's second-largest trading partner, with trade conducted in local currencies.)Article 224A: Relates to the appointment of retired judges as ad-hoc judges in High Courts to clear pending cases.Fiscal Metrics: India's Debt-to-GDP ratio remains a key metric for the 16th Finance Commission.Reciprocal Tariffs: A term used in international trade where countries match the tax rates imposed on each other's goods.9. Do You Know?Non-Smoker Surge: Clinical data released today shows that nearly 30% to 50% of lung cancer patients in India are now non-smokers, with urban air pollution becoming a primary cause alongside tobacco.The "United by Unique" Campaign: This year's World Cancer Day marks the second year of a three-year global campaign (2025–2027) aimed at closing the care gap through equity and compassion.World's Largest Electrified Rail: As of early 2026, Indian Railways has officially achieved over 99% electrification of its broad-gauge routes, making it the largest green rail network globally.Robot Anniversary: On this day in 1938, the BBC broadcast the first-ever science fiction television program, an adaptation of the play R.U.R., which famously introduced the word "robot" to the world.Crow's-feet: These are the fine lines that form at the outside corners of a person's eyes, so named because they resemble the feet of a crow.Brave Act: A 9-year-old boy named Ajay from Chhattisgarh received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for fighting off a crocodile to save his father.10. Job & Educational TopicsSiddharth Institutions: Siddharth Engineering College in Puttur is celebrating its Silver Jubilee (25 years) of service.CMRL Vacancies: Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has invited applications for various technical posts (Deadline: Feb 6).XISS Ranchi Admissions: Admissions are open for the PGDM programs at the Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS).11. Day Special: February 4World Cancer Day: Observed globally on February 4th to raise awareness about cancer, its prevention, and treatment.Traditional Day: Many educational institutions in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are celebrating "Traditional Day" today to promote cultural heritage.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsIndia-US Trade Deal: US President Donald Trump announced a historic trade deal with India, agreeing to cut reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 50% (which included oil-related penalties) to 18%.Russian Oil Halt: As part of the deal, President Trump claimed India agreed to stop purchasing Russian oil and instead increase energy imports from the US and potentially Venezuela.Gaza's Rafah Crossing: Reopening the Rafah crossing is reportedly part of a broader plan by the Trump administration to end the regional conflict.Iran Nuclear Talks: The President of Iran has ordered the restart of nuclear negotiations with the United States to resolve long-standing disputes.US Winter Storm: A massive winter storm across the US caused the cancellation of over 9,000 flights, disrupting major roadways and power for millions.Bangladesh Judicial Ruling: A court in Bangladesh sentenced deposed PM Sheikh Hasina to 10 years in prison and British lawmaker Tulip Siddiq to 4 years in a corruption case.2. National Current AffairsBudget Growth Strategy: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the FY27 Budget prioritizes growth through a ₹12.2 lakh crore capital expenditure outlay, aiming for infrastructure-led development.Viksit Bharat Rural Act: The government highlighted the Viksit Bharat - VB-GRAM G Act, 2025, which guarantees 125 days of wage employment for rural households.Parliament Standoff: Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted as Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi attempted to quote from the unpublished memoirs of former Army Chief Gen M.M. Naravane regarding the Ladakh standoff.Nuclear PLI Scheme: The government is considering a ₹20,000 crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to localize component manufacturing in the nuclear sector.Security Success: Security forces killed 16 Maoists in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum, including a high-ranking leader with a ₹2.35 crore reward.Rozgar Mela: Prime Minister Modi virtually distributed over 61,000 appointment letters to new government recruits across various departments.3. Science & TechnologySpaceX-xAI Merger: Discussions for a merger between Elon Musk’s SpaceX and his AI venture, xAI, are reportedly in an advanced stage.UP AI Mission: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the ₹2,000 crore UP AI Mission to set up 65 Data & AI labs for advanced healthcare and governance.Boeing Fuel Switch Issue: An Air India Dreamliner (VT-ANX) faced an uncommanded fuel switch cut-off at London Heathrow, challenging previous narratives of pilot error in earlier crashes.Republic Day Tech: DRDO is prepared to showcase its Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) at the upcoming parade.Alzheimer's Diagnostic: A new AI-integrated blood biomarker test was introduced in India to enable early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.Sonic Boom Tracking: Researchers successfully utilized seismometers to track the reentry of space debris, specifically identifying the Shenzhou-15 module's trajectory.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Investment: CM Chandrababu Naidu announced that AP has secured approximately ₹20 lakh crore in investment commitments over the last 18 months.Telangana Steel Project: The state secured a ₹12,500 crore commitment from the Rashmi Group for a new steel plant project.Delhi Fiscal Push: CM Rekha Gupta noted that Delhi received a direct central assistance of ₹1,348 crore and a borrowing window of ₹21,000 crore for capital infrastructure.Uttar Pradesh Pharma Policy: The state is offering a 15% capital subsidy and 5% interest subsidy for medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturing hubs.Kerala Parole Controversy: Fresh parole for convicts in a political double-murder case reignited protests by the opposition in the state assembly.Maharashtra Green Power: MSRDC invited tenders for cumulative 44 MW solar PV plants along the Samruddhi Mahamarg highway.5. District & Local NewsTirumala Ratha Saptami: Around 1.5 lakh devotees attended the Ratha Saptami festival at Tirumala, witnessing the Lord’s procession on seven different vehicles.Hyderabad Fire Probe: The State Human Rights Commission registered a case regarding a massive furniture shop fire in Nampally, seeking reports on safety lapses.Nandyal Bus Accident: Three people died and 36 escaped after a private bus collided with a lorry and caught fire in Nandyal district.Eluru Tiger Alert: Forest officials identified a sub-adult male tiger crossing from Telangana into Eluru, issuing a high alert for local villages.Surat Bullet Train Mishap: A man and his daughter died near Surat after a metal plate fell from an under-construction bullet train bridge.Hyderabad Infrastructure: HMDA announced a 9-km elevated corridor in Western Hyderabad costing ₹1,656 crore to ease traffic congestion.6. Sports & GamesT20 Series Victory: India took an unassailable 3-0 lead against New Zealand; Abhishek Sharma set a record with a 12-ball half-century.T20 World Cup Update: The ICC officially replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the 2026 T20 World Cup after Bangladesh refused to play in India.Djokovic Milestone: Novak Djokovic became the first tennis player in history to win 400 Grand Slam matches.Women's Premier League (WPL): Gujarat Giants and Delhi Capitals are set to face off in the Eliminator for a spot in the title clash against RCB.Formula 1 in India: The Sports Ministry is in talks to bring F1 back to the Buddh International Circuit by resolving past tax and bureaucratic issues.Padma Awards in Sports: Tennis legend Vijay Amritraj was honored with the Padma Bhushan, while cricket captains Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur received the Padma Shri.7. Cinema & EntertainmentPadma Honors: Veteran actors Rajendra Prasad and Murali Mohan were awarded the Padma Shri for their extensive contributions to Indian cinema.Varun Tej’s New Film: On the actor’s birthday, his upcoming horror-comedy project was officially titled Korean Kanakaraju.Oscar Records: The film Sinners led the 98th Academy Award nominations with a record-breaking 16 nods.Grammy Success: Bad Bunny won Album of the Year at the latest Grammy Awards.OTT Release: The mystic thriller Shambala starring Sai Kumar is releasing on the Aha platform.Cultural Milestone: The Triveni Kala Sangam in Delhi is celebrating its 75th year with a special retrospective exhibition.8. General Knowledge points for competitive jobsSilver Record: Silver prices hit a historic high of ₹3.3 lakh per kg in Mumbai bullion markets.Gold High: Gold reached an all-time peak of ₹1.59 lakh per 10 grams in Hyderabad.Wikipedia Stats: The English edition of Wikipedia now houses 7 million articles and 775 terabytes of data.NPS Contribution: Under the National Pension System, employees contribute 10% of their basic pay, matched by the government.Economic Forecast: The IMF has upgraded India’s growth projection for the current fiscal year to 7.3%.Urban Housing: India currently faces a shortage of 14 million affordable urban homes, a figure projected to grow to 30 million by 2030.9. Do You Know?Sunita Williams’ Retirement: NASA astronaut Sunita Williams retired after a 27-year career, having spent 608 days in space.ISS Lifeboats: Spacecraft like the SpaceX Dragon and Soyuz remain docked at the ISS permanently to act as emergency evacuation "lifeboats".Bark Spider Silk: The silk produced by female bark spiders in Madagascar is significantly tougher than that of their male counterparts.Tiger Safari Closure: Tourism safaris at the Amrabad Tiger Reserve were suspended for several days for the All India Tiger Estimation 2026.Voter AI Audit: An AI scan in West Bengal found one man registered as the "father" for 389 different voters.10. Job & Educational TopicsRBI Vacancies: The Reserve Bank of India is accepting applications for 572 Office Attendant posts until February 4, 2026.Intermediate Exams: Board exams for 1.75 lakh students in Hyderabad are scheduled to commence on February 25.Internship Stipend: The central government is proposing to raise the monthly stipend for the PM Internship Scheme to ₹11,800.SAI Assistant Coaches: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has announced 323 vacancies for Assistant Coaches in various disciplines.Medical Admissions: Bihar began Round-3 online counseling for Post Graduate Medical Admission (PGMAC)-2025.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsIndia-US Trade Pact: India and the U.S. have finalized a framework for an interim trade agreement, with a formal signing expected in March 2026.Tariff Reductions: Following the deal, President Trump has removed additional tariffs on Indian goods, including jewelry and aqua products.Import Concessions: India has scrapped import duties on 800-1600cc bikes (benefiting brands like Harley Davidson) and nuclear generation equipment from the U.S..Gaza Border Opening: The Rafah border crossing was expected to reopen for Palestinians on foot after being closed for nearly two years.Venezuela Oil Deal: President Trump claimed a "concept of a deal" is in place for India to purchase crude oil from Venezuela instead of Iran or Russia.2. National Current AffairsUnion Budget 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her record ninth consecutive budget with a total size of ₹53.47 trillion.Capex Push: The government set a massive capital expenditure (capex) target of ₹12.22 trillion for FY27, the highest in a decade at 4.4% of GDP.Tax on F&O: Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures was hiked to 0.05% and on options to 0.15% to discourage speculative trading.Buyback Taxation: Proceeds from share buybacks will now be taxed as capital gains for shareholders rather than as dividends, effective April 1, 2026.16th Finance Commission: The Centre accepted the recommendation to maintain the states' share in central taxes at 41% for the next five years.3. Science & TechnologyQuantum Valley: CM Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister Jitendra Singh laid the foundation for the "Amaravati Quantum Valley" in Andhra Pradesh.First Quantum Computer: India’s first quantum computer is expected to be operational in Andhra Pradesh by December 2026.Data Centre Tax Holiday: Foreign cloud service providers are offered a 20-year tax holiday (until 2047) to set up data centres in India.Semiconductor Mission 2.0: The government allocated ₹1,000 crore for phase two of the India Semiconductor Mission to boost domestic chip equipment manufacturing.Rare Earth Corridors: Dedicated corridors for mining and processing rare earth minerals will be established in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh (Polavaram): The Union Budget allocated ₹3,320 crore for the Polavaram project and ₹1,561 crore for the development of Amaravati.Telangana Dissatisfaction: The Telangana government expressed dissatisfaction, claiming the state's interests were "cold-shouldered" in the Union Budget.Purvodaya States: Five states—Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh—were designated as "Purvodaya" states for targeted industrial and tourism development.Health Infrastructure: Five regional medical hubs and a second NIMHANS in North India were proposed to strengthen healthcare access.Rare Earths: Odisha, Andhra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu will receive support to establish mineral-rich "rare earth corridors".5. District & Local NewsVisakhapatnam: Selected as one of seven "City Economic Regions" to receive ₹5,000 crore for infrastructure over five years.Varanasi Connectivity: Two of the seven new high-speed rail corridors will connect to Varanasi (Delhi-Varanasi and Varanasi-Siliguri).Local Body Polls: The Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission issued notifications for preparing voter lists for upcoming municipal and panchayat elections.Turtle & Bird Trails: Conservation trails will be developed at Pulicat Lake (Andhra/TN) and along the coasts of Odisha and Kerala.Keesara Bus Fire: A private sleeper bus caught fire near Keesara; 39 passengers escaped safely due to the driver's alertness.6. Sports & GamesT20 World Cup: Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s heroic 94-run innings led India to a winning start in the T20 World Cup 2026 against an unspecified opponent.Pakistan Boycott: The Pakistan government directed its team not to play the group-stage match against India in Colombo on February 15.Khelo India Mission: A revitalized mission was launched to transform sports infrastructure and coaching over the next decade.High Jump Success: Tejaswin Shankar won the men’s high jump title at the DeLoss Dodds Invitational 2026 with a jump of 2.26m.Sports Goods Hub: The Budget allocated ₹500 crore to promote sports goods manufacturing hubs in India.7. Cinema & EntertainmentOrange Economy: The Budget recognizes animation, visual effects, and gaming as the "Orange Economy," planning content creator labs in 15,000 schools.Digital Heritage Grid: A "National Destination Digital Knowledge Grid" will be created to document cultural, spiritual, and heritage sites.Modern Classic Rally: Over 140 iconic cars, including Ratan Tata's personal collection, were showcased at the Autocar India Modern Classic Rally in Mumbai.Gaming Sops: While some sectors saw duty cuts, the budget offered no new duty sops for video games and e-readers.8. GK Points for Competitive JobsWhich major global environmental day is observed today, 2 February? Answer: World Wetlands Day (The theme for 2026 is "Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage," highlighting the link between local indigenous practices and wetland conservation.)Who made history on February 1 by becoming the youngest man to achieve a "Career Grand Slam" after winning the Australian Open 2026? Answer: Carlos Alcaraz (The 22-year-old Spaniard defeated 10-time champion Novak Djokovic in four sets to clinch his first Australian Open title.)Which state recently launched the "Mukhyamantri Gramotthan Yojana" to provide urban-style infrastructure to 114 rural villages? Answer: Gujarat (Inaugurated by CM Bhupendra Patel, the scheme focuses on roads, drainage, solar street lighting, and e-Gram services.)Who was sworn in as the first-ever woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on 2 February 2026? Answer: Sunetra Pawar (She succeeds the late Ajit Pawar and was unanimously elected as the leader of the NCP legislature party.)To provide relief to cancer patients, the Union Budget 2026 has proposed a full exemption of Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on how many cancer drugs? Answer: 17 drugs (This move aims to reduce the financial burden on patients requiring life-saving oncology medications.)Which Indian state recently achieved a Guinness World Record by distributing 5,555 e-cycles to women in just 24 hours? Answer: Andhra Pradesh (The initiative, led by CM N. Chandrababu Naidu in Kuppam, aims to promote green mobility and women's empowerment.)Which Indian city recently hosted the "IndiaAI–Digital India Workshop" as a pre-event for the upcoming 2026 Impact Summit? Answer: Gangtok (Sikkim) (The workshop focused on the practical applications of AI in governance and education.)The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recently warned that which climate phenomenon is likely to develop after July 2026? Answer: El Niño (El Niño is the warming phase of the ENSO cycle, which can significantly suppress the Indian monsoon rains.)Who won the Women's Doubles title at the Australian Open 2026? Answer: Elise Mertens (Belgium) and Zhang Shuai (China) (This was their ninth Grand Slam doubles title together.)Which two states are the "Theme States" for the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela, which began on 31 January 2026? Answer: Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya (The partner nation for this year's Mela is Egypt.)Fastest Economy: India remains the fastest-growing major economy with a projected growth rate of 7.4% in 2025-26.Debt-to-GDP Target: The government aim is to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio to 50% by FY 2030-31.STT Definition: Securities Transaction Tax is a tax levied on the value of securities (excluding commodities and currency) transacted on a recognized stock exchange.Divisible Pool: Refers to the portion of central taxes that is shared with state governments based on Finance Commission recommendations.Viksit Bharat 2047: The government’s vision to transform India into a developed nation by the 100th anniversary of its independence.9. Do You Know?The "LRS" Change: In Budget 2026, the government proposed tracking outward remittances more strictly to prevent money laundering, while simultaneously easing the process for students studying abroad.Wetlands as "Kidneys": Wetlands are often called the "Kidneys of the Earth" because they filter out toxins and sediment from water before it enters the sea.Ramsar Record: India now has 98 Ramsar Sites, making it the country with the largest number of protected wetlands in South Asia.The "Romeo-Juliet" Clause: The Supreme Court is currently debating a new legal concept known as the "Romeo-Juliet" clause to prevent the criminalization of consensual adolescent relationships under the POCSO Act.Inverse Relation: Historically, gold and stocks are often inversely proportional; gold acts as a stabilizer during market stress when equities fall.Customs Duty on Drugs: Basic Customs Duty has been fully exempted for 17 life-saving drugs, including those for cancer.Taxpayer Trust: Minor tax defaults have been decriminalized, and the time limit to revise returns is extended by 3 months with a small fee.Rare Earth Dependence: India is pushing for domestic rare earth corridors to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals used in electronics.10. Job & Educational TopicsSkilling Pipeline: The Budget focuses on building "skilling pipelines" in healthcare, aiming to add 100,000 professionals over five years.Caregiver Training: A proposal to train 15 lakh caregivers for geriatric and allied care to meet global demand for nursing services.University Townships: Five university townships will be developed near industrial corridors to align education with industry needs.Skill Gap Mapping: A high-powered committee will be set up to map skill gaps and assess the impact of AI on future jobs.11. Day Special: February 2ndBudget Aftermath: Traditionally, the day following the Union Budget is marked by market reactions; the 2026 Budget led to a 1,500+ point drop in the Sensex due to the STT hike.Operation Sindoor: The 2026 Budget is the first after "Operation Sindoor," leading to a record 15% hike in the defense outlay.Gaza Developments: This date marks the anticipated reopening of the Rafah border crossing for humanitarian movement
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsU.S. Government Shutdown: A partial government shutdown began in the United States after the House of Representatives went on recess without passing a stop-gap funding bill. While the Senate passed a $1.1 trillion package (71-29), the legislative deadlock continues.Congo Mining Disaster: A tragic landslide at a coltan mine in the Ruhaya region of eastern Congo has resulted in the deaths of over 200 miners following heavy rainfall.Explosion at Iranian Port: A massive blast occurred at the Bandar Abbas port near the Strait of Hormuz, killing five people and causing significant structural damage to nearby buildings.Terror Attack in Nigeria: Armed insurgents attacked workers in Borno State, Nigeria, killing 36 people. The victims included 25 laborers and several security personnel.UK-China Trade Ties: British PM Keir Starmer’s visit to China concluded with export deals worth £220 million, signaling a push for stronger bilateral economic relations.2. National Current AffairsUnion Budget 2026-27: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget today (Feb 1) in Parliament. This marks her 9th consecutive budget presentation.Indian Coast Guard 50th Raising Day: Established on February 1, 1977, the ICG is celebrating its Golden Jubilee (50th anniversary) today with a major event in New Delhi.New Ramsar Sites: India has added the Palna Bird Sanctuary (UP) and Wand (Gujarat) to the Ramsar list of wetlands, bringing the total count of internationally recognized wetlands in India to 85.India-Arab Ministerial Meeting: During the 2nd India-Arab Senior Officials Meeting in Delhi, both sides discussed counter-terrorism and India reaffirmed its support for a peaceful resolution for Palestine.AI for Railway Safety: Indian Railways is deploying the 'Intrusion Detection System' (IDS) across 1,158 km in elephant-prone zones to prevent train-animal collisions using AI sensors.3. Science & TechnologyEco-friendly PCB Recycling: Researchers at IIT Madras have developed a new method to recover precious metals like gold and copper from printed circuit boards (PCBs) without using toxic chemicals.Radiation-Resistant Electronics: Scientists have designed ultra-thin electronics using Molybdenum Disulfide capable of surviving harsh space radiation, which is crucial for long-term satellite missions.Viral Manipulation Study: A new study revealed how a specific virus manipulates the brains of Cotton Bollworm caterpillars, forcing them to climb to the top of plants to die, thereby maximizing viral spread.4. States Current AffairsMaharashtra’s First Female Deputy CM: Sunetra Pawar took the oath as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious post in the state's history.Guinness Record in Kuppam: The Chittoor district administration (Andhra Pradesh) entered the Guinness World Records by distributing 5,555 e-cycles to SHG women in a single day.Kerala Tourism Conclave: A two-day summit titled ‘Kerala for All’ began in Kochi, focusing on making tourism more inclusive and accessible for persons with disabilities.New DGP for West Bengal: Senior IPS officer Piyush Pandey has been appointed as the new Director General of Police (DGP) for West Bengal.5. District & Local News (Andhra Pradesh)Ambati Rambabu Arrested: YSRCP leader Ambati Rambabu was arrested by Guntur police for allegedly making provocative remarks against the Chief Minister and obstructing police duties.Gunadala Mary Matha Festival: The 102nd annual festival of Gunadala Matha in Vijayawada commenced with a ceremonial flag hoisting.Subsidized Wheat Flour: The AP government has started providing wheat flour at ₹20 per kg through Fair Price shops across the state starting today.'Computer Didi' in Guntur: Under a central scheme to empower women, the 'Didi Ka Dukaan' initiative has been launched in Tadikonda to provide digital services through local women.6. Sports & GamesAustralian Open Women’s Final: Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka to clinch her second Grand Slam title in a thrilling final at Melbourne.Men’s Singles Final: World No. 1 Novak Djokovic faces Carlos Alcaraz today. Djokovic is eyeing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.India vs New Zealand T20: India secured the T20 series 4-1 against New Zealand, with Ishan Kishan playing a pivotal role in the final victory.Tata Steel Chess: Indian prodigies Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa settled for draws in their respective rounds at the Tata Steel Masters in the Netherlands.7. Cinema & Entertainment'Amaravathi ki Aahvanam': The teaser for this film, starring Shiva Kuramaneni and Murali Mohan, was released. The movie is scheduled for an eleventh February release.Arijit Singh Spotlight: Features on the life of singer Arijit Singh highlighted his humble roots in Murshidabad, Bengal, despite his global superstardom.8. General Knowledge (GK) for Competitive ExamsUnion Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her 9th consecutive Union Budget today. What is the historic significance of this presentation date? Answer: First-ever Sunday Budget. (This is the first time in Indian history that the Union Budget has been presented in Parliament on a Sunday.)Who became the youngest man to complete a "Career Grand Slam" by winning the Australian Open 2026 today? Answer: Carlos Alcaraz. (The 22-year-old Spaniard defeated Novak Djokovic in a four-set thriller to win his first Australian Open and 7th Major title overall.)The Union Budget 2026–27 is based on which "Three Kartavyas" (Duties) to guide India toward prosperity? Answer: Accelerate growth, Fulfill aspirations, and Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas. Which new initiative was announced in the Budget with an outlay of ₹10,000 crore to make India a global biopharma hub? Answer: Biopharma SHAKTI. (SHAKTI stands for Strategy for Healthcare Advancement through Knowledge, Technology, and Innovation.)Which two wetlands in India were officially added to the Ramsar List today, bringing the total count to 98? Answer: Patna Bird Sanctuary (UP) and Chhari-Dhand (Gujarat). Who was sworn in as the first-ever woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on the eve of 1 February? Answer: Sunetra Pawar. (She succeeds the late Ajit Pawar and will oversee Excise, Minority Affairs, and Sports portfolios.)Which defense organization is celebrating its 50th Raising Day (Golden Jubilee) today, 1 February 2026? Answer: Indian Coast Guard (ICG). (The ICG was established on this day in 1977; its motto is "Vayam Rakshamah" - We Protect.)Which Indian state recently launched a first-of-its-kind "Exclusive Industrial Park for Women Entrepreneurs"? Answer: Andhra Pradesh. Which new plant species was recently discovered in the community forests of Nagaland by researchers? Answer: Hoya nagaensis. At the 68th Grammy Awards held today, which artist made history as the most awarded hip-hop artist in Grammy history? Answer: Kendrick Lamar. (He surpassed Jay-Z's record by winning five awards today.)Budget Records: While Morarji Desai holds the record for presenting the most budgets (10), Nirmala Sitharaman now holds the record for the longest streak of 9 consecutive budgets.Strait of Hormuz: Known as the world's most important oil transit chokepoint, it connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.Ahimsa Silk: Also known as 'Eri Silk,' it is produced without killing the silkworm, making it a cruelty-free textile.9. Do You Know?The 105mm Salute: Today’s Republic Day-linked traditions saw the 21-gun salute performed using 105 mm Indian Field Guns, emphasizing the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-reliant India) theme.The "River of Blood": The Lohit River (a tributary of the Brahmaputra) made headlines today. It is called the "River of Blood" because the laterite soil in the region gives its water a distinct red tinge.Sunday Budget Secret: The decision to present the Budget on a Sunday was made to ensure markets were closed during the speech, preventing immediate volatile fluctuations in the stock market.V-BAT Drones: The Indian Army has begun testing the V-BAT, a unique "Vertical Take-off and Landing" (VTOL) drone that doesn't need a runway and can hover like a helicopter while flying like a plane.Why Satellites Don't Fall: Satellites stay in orbit because their forward velocity is perfectly balanced by Earth's gravitational pull. They are essentially in a state of perpetual "free fall" around the curve of the Earth.Social Media Impact: Recent studies suggest that excessive social media consumption in children leads to decreased cognitive focus and productivity due to "dopamine looping."10. Job & Educational TopicsNEET PG Counseling: The MCC has resumed the Round-3 counseling process; candidates must report to their allotted colleges by February 11.IIT Madras Summer Fellowship: Applications are open for the 2026 Summer Fellowship for Engineering and Science students to conduct research under IIT faculty.CCRS Recruitment: The Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS) has issued a notification for Research Officers and Lab Attendants.11. Day Special: February 1Indian Coast Guard Day: Celebrated to honor the maritime force that protects India’s 7,517 km coastline.Adampur Airport Renaming: PM Modi is visiting Punjab today to officially rename Adampur Airport as "Sri Guru Ravidas Airport" on the occasion of the saint's 649th birth anniversary.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsRepublic Day Guests: Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, attended India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations as Chief Guests.U.S. Visa Backlog: Indian professionals face significant anxiety as the waiting period for H-1B visa stamping interviews at U.S. consulates has reportedly extended into 2027.Trump's Tariff Warnings: U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened Canada with a 100% tariff on all goods if it moves forward with a trade deal with China, claiming such a pact would destroy Canada's social fabric.Violence in Bangladesh: Another Hindu youth, Chanchal Chandra Bhowmik, was reportedly burned to death in a planned act of arson while he slept in his workshop.U.S. Winter Storm: A massive winter storm forced the cancellation of over 9,000 flights across the United States, disrupting power and snapping major roadways.Airbus Geopolitical Warning: Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury warned staff to adapt to unsettling new geopolitical risks, including disunity between Washington and allies over Greenland and NATO.2. National Current AffairsPadma Awards 2026: The Union Government announced 131 Padma awards, including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri.Padma Vibhushan Recipients: Honorees include Bollywood veteran Dharmendra, former Kerala CM V.S. Achuthanandan (posthumous), former SC Judge K.T. Thomas, and CPI leader P. Narayanan.Ashok Chakra for Astronaut: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS, was awarded the Ashok Chakra, the nation's highest peacetime gallantry award.New BJP Leadership: Nitin Nabin (45) has officially taken charge as the youngest-ever National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Rozgar Mela: Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed appointment letters to over 61,000 newly recruited government personnel via video conference.Passing of Mark Tully: Legendary former BBC bureau chief Sir Mark Tully, a trusted voice in Indian journalism for decades, passed away at age 90.3. Science & TechnologyNuclear PLI Scheme: The government is likely to announce an ₹18,000–20,000 crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for manufacturing critical nuclear components in the upcoming Budget.Alzheimer’s AI Test: Indian diagnostic firms have introduced an AI-integrated blood biomarker test to support early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.Hypersonic Missile Debut: DRDO showcased its Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) during the 77th Republic Day parade.Sonic Boom Tracking: Researchers have successfully used seismometers to detect and analyze sonic booms from space debris during atmospheric reentry.UP AI Mission: Uttar Pradesh launched a ₹2,000 crore "UP AI Mission" focusing on 65 Data & AI labs to revolutionize healthcare.Andhra SpaceTech Summit: The Space Tech Summit-2026 at Vignan’s University concluded successfully, featuring rocketry challenges for students.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh Investment: CM Chandrababu Naidu stated that AP secured approximately ₹20 lakh crore in investment commitments over the last 18 months.Amaravati Legal Sanctity: A bill to provide permanent legal sanctity to Amaravati as the capital of Andhra Pradesh is expected to be introduced in the current Parliament Budget Session.Telugu Padma Winners: A total of 14 Telugu individuals were honored with Padma awards this year, including oncologist Dr. Nori Dattatreyudu (Padma Bhushan).Punjab Education & Health: CM Bhagwant Mann pledged to make quality education and healthcare fundamental rights for every common citizen in Punjab.Telangana Projects: CM Naidu expressed that Telangana's stance on the Nallamalasagar project is incorrect and urged AP MPs to clarify this in Parliament.Mumbai Infrastructure: Embassy Group announced plans for new projects in Mumbai worth ₹12,000 crore.5. District & Local NewsTirumala Ratha Saptami: Approximately 1.50 lakh devotees attended the Ratha Saptami celebrations at Tirumala, where Lord Malayappa Swamy was taken in procession on seven vahanas.Tiger Scare in Eluru: A tiger straying through Koyyalagudem and Buttayagudem mandals has killed ten cattle in five days, prompting forest officials to set traps.Visakha Utsav: The annual cultural festival "Visakha Utsav" began with grand celebrations along the RK Beach in Visakhapatnam.Hyderabad Fire Aftermath: Investigation and DNA testing continue to identify victims of the massive furniture shop fire in Nampally.Guntur Tragedy: A woman named Durga, who allegedly set fire to her boyfriend's family, died while undergoing treatment for her own burn injuries.Kurnool Arrests: Police arrested four individuals for allegedly injecting a woman doctor with HIV-positive blood in Kurnool.6. Sports & GamesIndia Sweeps T20 Series: India took an unassailable 3-0 lead against New Zealand after a dominant 8-wicket win; Abhishek Sharma smashed a record 12-ball half-century.Tennis Honor: Indian tennis legend Vijay Amritraj was awarded the Padma Bhushan.Cricket Padma Shri: Indian captains Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur were named recipients of the Padma Shri award.Hockey India League: Ranchi Royals reached the final after captain Tom Boon scored a hat-trick to defeat Hyderabad Toofans 3-2.Australian Open: Carlos Alcaraz advanced to his 14th Grand Slam quarterfinal, a record for a man under 23 years of age.Ranji Trophy: Andhra secured a commanding 8-wicket victory over Vidarbha to move to the top of the Group table.7. Cinema & EntertainmentTelugu Actors Honored: Renowned actors Rajendra Prasad and Murali Mohan were awarded the Padma Shri for their contributions to cinema.OTT Releases: The mystic thriller Shambala is set for release on Aha, while the series Space Zen Chandrayaan arrives on JioHotstar.Spiritual Singer Award: Spiritual singer Garimella Balakrishna Prasad was posthumously honored with the Padma Shri.Murali Mohan’s Legacy: Actor Murali Mohan has acted in over 350 films across his 53-year cinematic journey.Oscar Nominations: Ryan Coogler’s Sinners led the 98th Academy Award nominations with a record-breaking 16 nods.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Exams)Who are the Chief Guests for India's 77th Republic Day Parade today? Answer: António Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission).What is the central theme of the 2026 Republic Day Parade? Answer: "150 Years of Vande Mataram" (marking the anniversary of the national song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay).Which veteran actor has been posthumously honored with the Padma Vibhushan 2026? Answer: Dharmendra Singh Deol (posthumous).Who is the Parade Commander for the Republic Day Parade 2026 at Kartavya Path? Answer: Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar (General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area).Which indigenous rocket system made its debut in the Republic Day Parade today? Answer: Suryastra (Universal Rocket Launcher System).Which former Kerala Chief Minister was awarded the Padma Vibhushan 2026 posthumously? Answer: V.S. Achuthanandan.Which Indian cricket captain was honored with the Padma Shri award on the eve of Republic Day 2026? Answer: Rohit Sharma (along with women's captain Harmanpreet Kaur Bhullar).Which newly raised military unit marched for the first time in the 2026 Republic Day parade? Answer: Bhairav Light Commando Battalion.The 21-gun salute during the National Anthem was presented using which indigenously developed weapon system? Answer: 105 mm Light Field Guns.In the Australian Open 2026 today, which top seed reached the quarterfinals after a walkover? Answer: Novak Djokovic (after his opponent Jakub Mensik withdrew).Delimitation Projections: Projections suggest northern states could gain 158 parliamentary seats while southern states may gain only 24 during future delimitation.9. Do You Know?Wikipedia Data Size: Wikipedia now houses approximately 775 terabytes of data across its 7 million English articles.Spider Silk Toughness: Scientific research indicates that female bark spiders produce silk significantly tougher and more durable than that of males.The Traditional Buggy: After many years, the President of India arrived at Kartavya Path in a traditional horse-drawn buggy, escorted by the President's Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Army.The "Vande Mataram" Gallery: Along Kartavya Path today, the government displayed a rare series of paintings from 1923 by artist Tejendra Kumar Mitra, which illustrate every single verse of our national song.Animal Force Multipliers: For the first time, the parade featured a special animal contingent including Zanskar ponies (for high altitude), Bactrian camels (for desert ops), and even Army raptors (birds of prey).The First Time for EU: This is the first time in history that two leaders of the European Union have simultaneously served as Chief Guests for India's Republic Day.10. Job & Educational TopicsGovernment Appointments: PM Modi handed out 61,000 recruitment letters during the latest Rozgar Mela.RBI Recruitment: Applications for 572 Office Attendant posts in the Reserve Bank of India are open until February 4, 2026.Internship Stipend: The government is considering raising the PM Internship Scheme stipend to ₹11,800 per month.Board Exams: Intermediate annual examinations for 1.75 lakh students in Hyderabad are scheduled to begin on February 25.SpaceTech Training: Students at the AP Space Tech Summit received specialized training in rocketry and satellite technology.11. Day Special: 77th Republic Day (26 January)Commemoration: Today marks the 76th anniversary of India becoming a Republic in 1950.Purna Swaraj Connection: The date January 26 was chosen to commemorate the Purna Swaraj declaration of 1930.Theme for 2026: "150 years of Vande Mataram".Main Celebrations: President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation, highlighting India's role as a messenger of peace in a world of conflict.Maiden Celebrations: Amaravati hosted its first official Republic Day celebrations as the designated capital of Andhra Pradesh.Chief Guests: The historic presence of both the European Council and European Commission Presidents underscored strengthening India-EU ties.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsTrump's "Board of Peace": U.S. President Donald Trump inaugurated a "Board of Peace" in Davos aimed at overseeing a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, asserting it could eventually rival the United Nations.Canada-China Trade Conflict: Trump threatened Canada with a 100% tariff on all goods if it proceeds with a trade deal with China, claiming China would "eat Canada alive" and destroy its social fabric.US Federal Raid Violence: U.S. federal agents killed a man in Minneapolis during an immigration crackdown, leading Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to demand that federal agents leave the state.US-India Oil Tariff Relief: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled a prospective removal of the 25% penalty tariff on India for Russian oil purchases, citing the successful "collapse" of Indian purchases of Russian crude.Mass US Flight Cancellations: Over 9,000 flights across the U.S. were cancelled as a major winter storm, expected to rival a hurricane in damage, bore down from New Mexico to New England.India’s Vote on Iran: India joined China and Pakistan in voting against a UN Human Rights Council resolution that censured Iran for its crackdown on protests.2. National Current AffairsJharkhand Anti-Maoist Operation: Security forces killed 16 Maoists, including top leader Anmol (carrying a ₹2.35 crore reward), in a major joint operation in West Singhbhum.J&K Army Truck Accident: Ten soldiers were martyred when their Army truck fell into a deep gorge in a high-altitude area of Jammu & Kashmir.Judiciary Independence Debate: Supreme Court judge Ujjal Bhuyan expressed dissent over the collegium’s decision to transfer a judge at the Centre's suggestion, calling executive influence "unfortunate" and a threat to judicial freedom.New BJP National President: Nitin Nabin (45) officially took charge as the youngest-ever National President of the BJP, succeeding J.P. Nadda.Rosgar Mela Appointments: PM Narendra Modi virtually addressed the 18th Rosgar Mela, distributing appointment letters to over 61,000 newly recruited government personnel.Viksit Bharat Rural Act: The government highlighted the "Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin)" Act, 2025, which guarantees 125 days of wage employment.3. Science & TechnologyUP AI Mission: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the ₹2,000 crore "UP AI Mission" to implement AI-driven healthcare solutions and establish 65 Data & AI labs.Hypersonic Missile Showcase: DRDO is set to display its Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) during the 77th Republic Day parade.Stem Cell Excellence at NIMS: A state-of-the-art Stem Cell Lab Centre of Excellence was inaugurated at NIMS, Hyderabad, to advance regenerative medicine research.Alzheimer's AI Diagnostic: A diagnostic chain in India introduced an AI-integrated blood biomarker test (PTAU/ABetal 42) to support early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.Sonic Boom Tracking: Researchers successfully used seismometers to detect sonic booms from space debris, specifically analyzing the reentry trajectory of the Shenzhou-15 module.SpaceTech Summit: The Andhra Pradesh Space Tech Summit-2026 concluded at Vignan’s University, featuring major student rocketry challenges.4. States Current Affairs (AP & Telangana)AP Investment Milestone: CM Chandrababu Naidu announced that Andhra Pradesh has secured ₹20 lakh crore in investment commitments within 18 months and bags 5% of India's total FDI.Telangana Steel Plant Deal: The Telangana delegation at Davos secured a ₹12,500 crore commitment from the Rashmi Group for a new steel plant.Amaravati Republic Day: Amaravati is set to host its maiden Republic Day celebrations as the official capital of Andhra Pradesh.Swachhandhra Development: CM Naidu inaugurated development projects worth ₹573 crore under the Swachhandhra initiative, including 110 Integrated Solid Waste Management units.TG Governor’s Excellence Awards: The awardees for 2025 were announced, recognizing individuals like Rama Devi Kanneganti and organizations like Sri Sai Social Empowerment Society.Andhra IT Expansion: Minister Nara Lokesh urged global firms like Capgemini and Tech Mahindra to expand their skill development and IT hubs in Vizag and Vijayawada.5. District & Local NewsNandyal Bus Tragedy: Three people died and 36 escaped when a private bus collided with a lorry and caught fire in Nandyal district.Hyderabad Fire Safety Probe: The Telangana State Human Rights Commission registered a complaint regarding a major fire at a furniture shop in Nampally, citing serious lapses by authorities.Tiger Alert in Eluru: Forest officials in Eluru identified a sub-adult male tiger passing through the Buttayagudem area after crossing over from Telangana.Surat Bullet Train Accident: A man and his nine-year-old daughter died near Surat after a heavy metal plate fell from an under-construction bullet train bridge.Hyderabad Elevated Corridor: HMDA announced a new 9-km elevated corridor for Western Hyderabad, estimated to cost ₹1,656 crore to ease traffic.Mhow Health Crisis: At least 22 people in Mhow, MP, fell ill due to jaundice suspected to be caused by contaminated drinking water.6. Sports & GamesIndia Leads T20 Series: India took a 2-0 lead in the T20 series against New Zealand after a convincing victory in Raipur powered by Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan.Bangladesh Out of T20 World Cup: The ICC officially replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the 2026 T20 World Cup after the BCB refused to play matches in India.Djokovic's 400th Win: Novak Djokovic reached the Australian Open pre-quarters, becoming the first player in history to win 400 Grand Slam matches.Australian Open Withdrawals: Two-time champion Naomi Osaka withdrew before the third round due to a physical issue, giving Maddison Inglis a walkover.Gukesh's Chess Blunder: World Champion D. Gukesh suffered an unimaginable loss to Uzbekistan's Nodirbek Abdusatorov in the Tata Steel Chess tournament following a late-game blunder.Maiden Test Call-ups: Pratika Rawal, Vaishnavi Sharma, and Kranti Gaud received their first Test call-ups for India’s upcoming one-off Test against Australia in Perth.7. Cinema & EntertainmentOscar Nominations Record: Ryan Coogler’s Sinners led the 98th Academy Award nominations with a record-breaking 16 nods.Varun Tej’s New Film: On his birthday, Varun Tej’s next film was officially titled Korean Kanakaraju, a horror-comedy project.OTT Releases: The mystic thriller Shambala starring Sai Kumar is set for release on Aha, and the series Space Zen Chandrayaan is arriving on JioHotstar.Visakha Utsav: The annual cultural festival "Visakha Utsav" began on January 24 in Visakhapatnam.Legendary Designer Passing: The world of fashion mourned the death of Italian designer Valentino Garavani at age 93.Meera Bhansali’s Poetry: Poet Meera Bhansali released Nocturnal Foghes, a collection exploring paranormal and Gothic themes in Indian English verse.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Jobs)Which important national day is observed in India today, 25 January, to mark the foundation of the Election Commission? Answer: National Voters' Day (Rashtriya Matdata Diwas) (The day has been celebrated since 2011 to encourage young voters to participate in the democratic process.)What is the theme for National Voters' Day 2026? Answer: "My India, My Vote" (The tagline for this year's theme is "Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy.")Which day is also celebrated in India on 25 January to promote the country's diverse culture and heritage? Answer: National Tourism Day (The day focuses on the economic and social importance of tourism to the nation.)Who have arrived in New Delhi today, 25 January 2026, to be the Chief Guests for the 77th Republic Day? Answer: Antonio Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission).Which Indian statutory body has recently launched "EPFO 3.0," a major digital reform for social security? Answer: Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) (The reform aims to introduce a centralized core banking-like solution for nearly 8 crore active members.)Which Indian teenage tennis player, along with partner Andre Göransson, advanced to the Pre-Quarterfinals of the Australian Open 2026 today? Answer: Yuki Bhambri (The duo reached the Round of 16 in the Men's Doubles event at Melbourne Park.)In which city is the 3rd T20 match between India and New Zealand being played today, 25 January? Answer: Guwahati (Barsapara Stadium) (India is currently leading the 5-match T20 International series.)Which country has recently reported a major "Norovirus" outbreak (stomach flu) in a senior high school affecting over 100 students? Answer: China (Foshan city) (Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines.)Who became India’s first female Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court, taking oath recently? Answer: Justice Revati Mohite-Dere (She was previously a judge at the Bombay High Court.)In the Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup, India defeated which team by seven wickets today to top their group? Answer: New Zealand (India finished the group stage unbeaten and advanced to the Super Six stage.)Urban Housing Shortage: Reports indicate India needs 14 million affordable urban homes immediately, rising to 30 million by 2030.9. Do You Know?SThe Voters' Birthday: The Election Commission of India (ECI) was founded on January 25, 1950, exactly one day before India became a Republic. This is why we celebrate Voters' Day today.EPIC Growth: The first Electronic Voter Photo Identity Card (e-EPIC) was launched on National Voters' Day in 2021, allowing voters to download their ID cards on their phones just like an Aadhaar card."Detour Destinations": A major trend in Indian tourism for 2026 is the rise of "Detour Destinations"—travelers are skipping major cities like Delhi or Mumbai to visit smaller, culturally rich towns like Ziro (Arunachal) or Ponduru (Andhra Pradesh).Extreme Heat in Melbourne: Outdoor matches at the Australian Open were suspended today due to extreme heat reaching nearly 40°C, forcing officials to close the roofs on the main stadiums.ISS Escape Pods: Spacecraft like the SpaceX Dragon and Soyuz serve as permanent "lifeboats" for the International Space Station.Bark Spider Silk: Research shows female bark spiders in Madagascar produce silk that is significantly tougher than that of males.Voter Discrepancy Case: In Asansol, West Bengal, an AI scan found a single man registered as the "father" of 389 different voters.10. Job & Educational TopicsRBI Vacancies: The Reserve Bank of India is accepting applications for 572 Office Attendant posts until February 4, 2026.Intermediate Exam Schedule: Annual board exams for 1.75 lakh Intermediate students in Hyderabad are scheduled to begin on February 25.NMDC Director Recruitment: The PESB has invited applications for the post of Director (Commercial) at NMDC, with a deadline of February 9.SAI Assistant Coaches: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) announced 323 vacancies for Assistant Coaches in various disciplines.Informant Reward: The Delhi government announced a ₹50,000 reward for individuals who report illegal fetal sex determination tests.11. Day Special: National Voters' Day (25 January)16th Edition: 2026 marks the 16th National Voters' Day (NVD) in India.Theme 2026: The official theme for this year is 'My India, My Vote'.Historical Foundation: The day commemorates the foundation of the Election Commission of India on January 25, 1950.Unified ECINET App: The EC is set to launch the unified ECINET app, integrating over 40 existing election-related applications.Mission-929: A special initiative has been launched to increase voter turnout in Tripura to over 90%.Current Leadership: Gyanesh Kumar serves as the current 26th Chief Election Commissioner of India, following the first executive, Sukumar Sen.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsTrump’s "Board of Peace": U.S. President Donald Trump inaugurated a "Board of Peace" in Davos intended to oversee a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, claiming it could eventually rival the UN.India’s Diplomatic Stance: While 59 countries signed on to the new peace body, India was notably absent from the initial 19-nation ceremony as it weighs its decision.Greenland Strategy: Potential compromise contours for Greenland include increased NATO presence in the Arctic and establishing sovereign U.S. bases while blocking Russian and Chinese mining.U.S. GDP Milestone: The U.S. economy reported a revised 4.4% annualized GDP growth for the third quarter, marking its fastest pace in two years.TikTok Divestiture: TikTok finalized a deal to establish a majority American-owned joint venture to avoid a U.S. ban, with Adam Presser named as CEO.US WHO Exit: One year after the initial order, the U.S. formally completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization on Friday, leaving behind approximately $260 million in debt.2. National Current AffairsNew BJP National President: Nitin Nabin (45) officially took charge as the youngest-ever National President of the BJP, succeeding J.P. Nadda.Jharkhand Anti-Maoist Success: Security forces killed 15 Maoists in a major joint operation in West Singhbhum, including a top leader with a ₹2.35 crore reward.PM SvaNidhi Credit Cards: PM Modi launched the PM SVANidhi Credit Card scheme in Kerala, providing street vendors with credit limits up to ₹30,000.Supreme Court on Electoral Rolls: The SC questioned the Election Commission on whether "illegal immigration" was the trigger for its special intensive revision of voter lists.Military Pension Ruling: The Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) granted a special family pension to a widow, ruling that military duty extends beyond fixed hours when saving lives.Corporate Fraud Probe: The Supreme Court sought status reports from the ED and CBI regarding a multi-crore corporate fraud involving high-ranking officials.3. Science & TechnologyUP AI Mission: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a ₹2,000 crore "UP AI Mission" to implement AI-driven healthcare and set up 65 Data & AI labs.Hypersonic Missile Debut: DRDO will showcase its Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) at the upcoming 77th Republic Day parade.Stem Cell Excellence: A new Stem Cell Lab Centre of Excellence was inaugurated at NIMS, Hyderabad, to advance accessible regenerative medicine.Battery PLI Struggles: Reports indicate the central incentive scheme for battery manufacturing is struggling to meet targets, with only 2.8% of capacity commissioned so far.National Transmission Milestone: India's national power transmission network reached the 500,000 ckm (circuit kilometer) milestone on January 14, 2026.Sustainable Aero-Engineering: Trusted Aerospace Engineering (TASE Global) opened a new ₹150 crore manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur.4. States Current AffairsAP WEF Center: The World Economic Forum announced it will set up a center in Andhra Pradesh, the third such hub in India after Mumbai and Hyderabad.Uttar Pradesh Diwas: Celebrations are being held from January 24–26 under the theme "Viksit Bharat, Viksit Uttar Pradesh".Andhra Sports Cities: CM Chandrababu Naidu invited the Tata Group to invest in three proposed "Sports Cities" in AP during the Davos summit.Kerala Rail Boost: PM Modi flagged off three new Amrit Bharat Express trains and a passenger train for Kerala during his visit to Thiruvananthapuram.Telangana Investment: The state secured a ₹12,500 crore commitment from the Rashmi Group for a steel plant project.Bihar IT Policy: Bihar announced a new IT Policy offering 30% fixed capital subsidies up to ₹30 crore to boost regional investment and employment.5. District & Local NewsVijayawada Regional Growth: Coastal Bank inaugurated its 52nd branch in One-Town, Vijayawada, focusing on local business development.Tirumala Ratha Saptami: TTD cancelled "VIP Break" darshans for January 25 to prioritize common devotees during the Ratha Saptami festival.Telangana Stray Dog Culling: Nearly 900 stray dogs have been culled this month across a Telangana district, leading to FIRs against local sarpanches.Hyderabad Infrastructure: The HMDA planned a 9-km elevated corridor for Western Hyderabad at a cost of ₹1,656 crore to ease traffic.Eluru Tiger Alert: Forest officials in Eluru issued a high alert and set camera traps after a tiger crossed over from Telangana into local mandals.Mhow Health Crisis: Over 20 residents in Mhow, MP, fell ill due to suspected contaminated water, leading to nine hospitalizations.6. Sports & GamesIndia Dominates T20s: India took a 2-0 lead in the T20 series against New Zealand; Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan led a record-breaking chase in Raipur.Australian Open: Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the fourth round, winning his match against Corentin Moutet 6-2, 6-4, 6-1.WPL Talent Hunt: The "WPL Speed Queen" initiative concluded its 15-city journey, successfully identifying the fastest young women bowlers across India.RCB Ownership Bid: Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla announced he will submit a competitive bid to acquire the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) IPL team.Shooting Trials: Tilottama Sen secured the top spot in the women's 10m air rifle during the national selection trials.Tennis Milestone: Novak Djokovic became the first man to record 100 match wins at every individual Grand Slam tournament.7. Cinema & EntertainmentOscar Records: Ryan Coogler’s film Sinners led the 98th Academy Award nominations with a record 16 nods.Visakha Utsav: The annual cultural festival "Visakha Utsav" is scheduled to begin on January 24 in Visakhapatnam.Legendary Designer Dies: World-renowned fashion icon Valentino Garavani passed away at the age of 93.Saraswati Jayanthi: Major preparations are underway at Indrakeeladri for the Sri Saraswati Devi Jayanthi celebrations on January 23.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Jobs)Which two important observances are celebrated in India and globally on 24 January? Answer: National Girl Child Day and International Day of Education.What is the theme for the 8th International Day of Education observed today, 24 January 2026? Answer: "The power of youth in co-creating education."In which city was the foundation stone recently laid for "Palmnaro," India's first integrated private-sector satellite plant? Answer: Sanand, Gujarat. (Developed by Azista Space Limited, it will focus on indigenous satellite manufacturing.) Which Indian city has become Uttar Pradesh’s first "Zero Fresh Waste Dump" city by achieving 100% scientific processing of municipal waste? Answer: Lucknow.The "Healthy Border Campaign" (Swasth Seema Abhiyan) was recently launched in which state in collaboration with the ITBP? Answer: Uttarakhand. (It aims to provide primary healthcare to 108 border villages in districts like Pithoragarh and Chamoli.)Which state government recently signed an MoU with Starlink India to strengthen digital connectivity and disaster resilience in rural areas? Answer: Goa.What is the current interest rate for the "Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana" (SSY) as of early 2026? Answer: 8.2%.Which space agency’s probe, Voyager 1, is expected to become the first human-made object to reach a distance of "one light-day" from Earth in 2026? Answer: NASA. (A light-day is the distance light travels in 24 hours, approximately 26 billion kilometers.)The "Karuna Abhiyan 2026," a state-wide wildlife rescue campaign to protect birds injured by kite strings, is an initiative of which state? Answer: Gujarat.Which bank recently won the "Best Fintech & DPI Adoption" award at the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) Technology Awards? Answer: Karnataka Bank.9. Do You Know?TThe "LRS" Dip: Outward remittances by Indians (money sent abroad) fell to a two-year low recently. This is largely because fewer Indians are spending on foreign studies compared to previous years.Lucknow’s Waste Magic: Lucknow now processes 100% of its daily waste, turning it into Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) for industries and bio-soil for farmers, leaving no "fresh" trash in landfills.The Power of 24: While 24 January is famous for girls' rights, it was specifically chosen as National Girl Child Day in 2008 to coincide with the anniversary of Indira Gandhi taking oath as India’s first woman Prime Minister in 1966.Pushpak’s Progress: ISRO is currently conducting advanced landing experiments with "Pushpak," a reusable launch vehicle that lands like an airplane. This is the "Indian version" of reusability, similar to SpaceX's Falcon 9 but using a winged design.10. Job & Educational TopicsRBI Office Attendants: The Reserve Bank of India has 572 vacancies for Office Attendant posts; applications close February 4, 2026.Kavach B.Tech Course: IRISET Secunderabad and CVR College signed a pact to launch a B.Tech course on the 'Kavach' railway safety system.PM Internship Hike: The government is considering increasing the PM Internship Scheme stipend to ₹11,800 per month.Sports Coaching Jobs: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) announced 323 vacancies for Assistant Coaches across various disciplines.Telangana Inter Exams: Annual Intermediate board exams for 1.75 lakh students in Hyderabad are scheduled to begin on February 25.Reward for Informers: The Delhi government announced a ₹50,000 reward for informers who report illegal fetal sex determination tests.11. Day Special: National Girl Child Day (24 January)Inception: The day was first initiated in 2008 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.Theme for 2026: The official theme is "A Girl's Vision for the Future".Core Purpose: Spreading awareness about gender-based discrimination and promoting equal rights and opportunities for girls.Slogan: "Protect, educate, and empower girls, promoting gender equality and social awareness across India".
Authored By: K Siva1. International Current AffairsTrump’s "Board of Peace": U.S. President Donald Trump inaugurated a "Board of Peace" in Davos to oversee a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. He claimed this body could eventually rival the United Nations.India Absent from Peace Board: While 59 countries have reportedly signed on, representatives of only 19 countries attended the ceremony; India was notably absent as it has yet to decide on joining.Greenland Stance Softens: Trump softened his stance on imposing tariffs on European countries that oppose his bid for Greenland, easing global trade tension fears.US GDP Growth: The U.S. economy reported a revised 4.4% annualized GDP growth for the third quarter, its fastest pace in two years.Canada-India Trade Relations: Canadian PM Mark Carney is expected to visit New Delhi before March-end to spur negotiations for a bilateral trade deal (CEPA).French Tanker Intercepted: France’s Navy intercepted an oil tanker from Russia in the Mediterranean as part of a mission targeting the sanctioned Russian "shadow fleet".2. National Current AffairsJharkhand Encounter: Security forces killed 16 Maoists, including top leader Anmol who carried a ₹2.35 crore reward, in a massive joint operation in West Singhbhum district.Army Truck Tragedy: Ten soldiers were killed when an Army truck fell into a gorge in a high-altitude area of Jammu & Kashmir.Karnataka Governor Walkout: Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot cut short his joint session address to just a few sentences and walked out, protesting paragraphs critical of the Union government.Supreme Court on Electoral Rolls: The Supreme Court questioned the Election Commission on whether "illegal immigration" was the explicit trigger for its special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.Manipur Violence: Fresh tension erupted in Manipur following the filmed killing of a Meitei man, Rishikant Singh, in Churachandpur district while he was visiting his Kuki-Zo wife.Kejriwal Acquitted: Arvind Kejriwal was acquitted in an excise policy-related case for skipping ED summons.3. Science & TechnologyAI for Healthcare in UP: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced the "UP AI Mission" with a ₹2,000 crore outlay to implement AI-driven healthcare, including 65 planned Data & AI labs.DRDO at Republic Day: DRDO will showcase the Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) at the upcoming 77th Republic Day parade.Stem Cell Lab at NIMS: A new Stem Cell Lab Centre of Excellence was inaugurated at NIMS, Hyderabad, to advance regenerative medicine.India’s Renewable Milestone: India's national power transmission network crossed the 500,000 ckm milestone on January 14, 2026.Advanced Battery PLI Sluggish: A new report indicates only 2.8% of the targeted battery manufacturing capacity under the Centre's PLI scheme has been commissioned so far.Aero-Engineering Expansion: Trusted Aerospace Engineering (TASE Global) inaugurated a new ₹150 crore state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh (Davos Investments): CM Chandrababu Naidu invited the Tata Group to invest in three proposed "Sports Cities" in AP.Telangana Steel Plant: The Telangana delegation at Davos secured a ₹12,500 crore commitment from the Rashmi Group for a new steel plant.AP-RMZ Partnership: The AP government signed a $10 billion deal with RMZ Corporation for a hyperscale data center in Visakhapatnam.Tamil Nadu Governor Standoff: Similar to Karnataka, the Tamil Nadu Governor recently declined to read the customary address in the Assembly.Telangana Administrative Shift: The state notified the shifting of key digital and excise offices to new premises, including the NAC campus and Errum Manzil.Andhra Pradesh IT Expansion: Minister Nara Lokesh urged companies like Capgemini and Tech Mahindra to expand their integrated IT centers and skill development hubs in Vizag and Vijayawada.5. District & Local NewsNandyal Bus Accident: A private bus collided with a lorry and caught fire in Nandyal district; three people died, while 36 passengers escaped through an emergency window.Tiger Alert in Eluru: A tiger straying from Telangana into Eluru district prompted the forest department to issue alerts and set up camera traps.Vijayawada Regional Development: Coastal Bank opened its 52nd branch in One-Town, Vijayawada.Hyderabad Infrastructure: The HMDA announced a 9-km elevated corridor for Western Hyderabad costing ₹1,656 crore.Ratha Saptami at Tirumala: TTD is making arrangements for the Ratha Saptami festival on January 25; "VIP Break" darshans have been cancelled to prioritize common devotees.Musi Project Concerns: Activists from Musi Jan Andolan met an ADB team to voice concerns regarding displacements caused by the Musi river project.6. Sports & GamesAustralian Open: Novak Djokovic reached the third round, becoming the first man to record 100 match wins at every Grand Slam.Adar Poonawalla for RCB: The CEO of Serum Institute announced he will submit a "strong and competitive bid" to acquire the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) IPL team.Shooting Trials: Tilottama Sen secured the top spot in the women's 10m air rifle during national selection trials.SA Squad Changes: Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs replaced injured players Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira in South Africa's T20 World Cup squad.7. Cinema & EntertainmentOscar Nominations: Ryan Coogler’s Sinners led the 98th Academy Award nominations with a record-breaking 16 nods.Zee Entertainment Results: Zee Entertainment Enterprises reported its financial results for the quarter ending December 31, 2025.Saraswati Jayanthi: Preparations are underway at Indrakeeladri for Sri Saraswati Devi Jayanthi on January 23.Film Festival Competition: It Was Just An Accident (Persian) and Sirat (Spain) are among the titles competing for best international film at an upcoming festival.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Exams)Gold Price Hike: Gold prices reached a record ₹1.59 lakh (per 10 grams) in Hyderabad bullion markets.India’s GDP Forecast: The IMF maintained India’s growth projection at 7.3% for the current fiscal year.World Trade: Global international tourist arrivals hit a record 1.52 billion in the previous year.Hathi Commission (History): Historical records show that 50 years ago, the government was considering taking over foreign drug firms as recommended by the Hathi Commission.NPS Rule: Under the National Pension System, employees contribute 10% of their basic pay, matched by the government.9. Do You Know?Sunita Williams' Retirement: Astronaut Sunita Williams has officially retired from NASA after spending 608 days in space and conducting nine spacewalks.Tiger Census Impact: Safari operations at Amrabad Tiger Reserve are closed until January 25 for the All India Tiger Estimation.Wikipedia Data: Wikipedia now stores 775 terabytes of data across its 7 million English articles.mBridge Project: This digital currency project for cross-border settlements is designed to be "sanction-proof".Spider Silk: Female bark spiders produce silk that is significantly tougher than their male counterparts.ISS Escape: The SpaceX Dragon and Russian Soyuz serve as permanent "lifeboats" for the International Space Station.10. Job & Educational TopicsRBI Vacancies: Applications are open for 572 Office Attendant posts in the Reserve Bank of India until February 4, 2026.Kavach B.Tech Course: A new course on the 'Kavach' railway protection system is being launched through a partnership between IRISET and CVR College.PM Internship Stipend: There is a proposal to increase the monthly stipend for the PM Internship Scheme to ₹11,800.Faculty Recruitment: Sri Vasavi Engineering College and NIT Calicut have issued recruitment notices for various teaching positions.Intermediate Exams: Telangana Board exams for Intermediate students are scheduled to start on February 25.SAI Recruitment: The Sports Authority of India has 323 vacancies for Assistant Coaches across various disciplines.11. Day Special: Parakram Diwas (23 January)Netaji's 129th Birth Anniversary: India celebrates the 129th birth anniversary of Subhash Chandra Bose as "Parakram Diwas" to honor his selfless service to the nation.Founder of INA: Born in 1897, Bose was the founder of the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj).Key Titles: He was known as "Netaji" and the "Patriot of Patriots"; he famously gave Mahatma Gandhi the title "Father of the Nation."Political Guru: Chittaranjan Das served as his political mentor.Iconic Slogan: His most famous call to arms was, "Give me blood, and I will give you freedom!"Recent Commemorations: Recent news highlights include naming the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island in A&N and the unveiling of his hologram statue by the PM.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsGreenland Pressure: U.S. President Donald Trump has increased pressure on European nations and NATO to grant the U.S. full rights to Greenland for national security, arguing it is part of North America.Trade Deal Freeze: In response to Trump's escalating threats regarding Greenland, the European Parliament has indefinitely postponed a vote on a landmark trade deal between the EU and the U.S..Abe's Assassin Sentenced: A Japanese court sentenced 45-year-old Tetsuya Yamagami to life in prison for the 2022 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.Middle Powers Alliance: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, speaking at Davos, urged mid-sized nations to band together to resist coercion from aggressive superpowers, noting that the "rules-based international order" is effectively dead.UN Warning: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that global order is being undermined by leaders who "run roughshod over international law," setting a perilous precedent for global security.Sunita Williams Retires: NASA announced the retirement of Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams after a distinguished 27-year career and three space missions.2. National Current AffairsSupreme Court on Voter Lists: The Supreme Court emphasized that the Election Commission's discretion in revising electoral rolls is not "unregulated" and must follow transparent procedures to protect the civil rights of existing voters.Aravalli Expert Panel: A special team of domain experts will be constituted by the Supreme Court to "define" the Aravalli Range and create a roadmap for permissible activities, including regulated mining.Freebies vs. Welfare: The Supreme Court drew a clear distinction between "irrational freebies" used to lure voters and legitimate state investments in public welfare schemes for marginalized sections.Youngest BJP President: Nitin Nabin (45) has officially taken over as the youngest-ever National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party.Draft Electricity Policy 2026: The Union Power Ministry released a draft policy proposing index-linked automatic annual revisions of electricity tariffs to ensure the financial health of power utilities.SIDBI Equity Infusion: The Union Cabinet approved a ₹5,000 crore equity infusion into the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) to expand credit for MSMEs.3. Science & TechnologyStem Cell Excellence: A Stem Cell Lab Centre of Excellence was inaugurated at the Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) in Hyderabad to advance regenerative medicine.AI for Rural Governance: At the Davos WEF, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy highlighted how the state uses Artificial Intelligence to track farmer subsidies and property tax collections.Persistent Systems AI Monetization: Persistent Systems has begun monetizing proprietary AI tools like SASVA and AURA, offering integrated pricing models for customers.Critical Mineral Exploration: The Ministry of Mines plans to intensify exploration between 2026 and 2031, tasking the GSI with 500 projects, 300 of which will focus on strategic minerals.SpaceTech Summit: Andhra Pradesh is set to host a Space Tech Summit from January 22–24 at Vignan’s University, featuring a rocketry challenge for students.Vaccine Production Scaling: Dr. Reddy’s is preparing to manufacture 12 million pens of a generic weight-loss drug (Semaglutide) in its first year, following patent expirations.4. States Current Affairs (AP & Telangana)Telangana Investment Milestone: The Telangana delegation at Davos secured major commitments, including a ₹12,500 crore steel plant proposal from the Rashmi Group expected to generate 12,000 jobs.Amaravati Legal Sanctity: The Andhra Pradesh government is moving to pass a bill in the upcoming Parliament Budget Session (starting January 28) to provide permanent legal sanctity to Amaravati as the state capital.Next-Gen Life Sciences Policy: Telangana unveiled a new policy targeting $25 billion in investments and the creation of five lakh high-quality jobs within the global life sciences value chain.AP-RMZ Partnership: A $10 billion partnership was announced between the AP government and RMZ Corporation to develop a hyperscale data center in Visakhapatnam.ArcelorMittal Steel Plant: CM Chandrababu Naidu confirmed that the foundation stone for the ₹60,000 crore ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel plant in Anakapalli district will be laid after February 15.AP Land Value Revision: The Andhra Pradesh government has decided to revise land market values in urban areas starting February 1, 2026.5. District & Local NewsHyderabad Infrastructure: The HMDA announced several projects for Western Hyderabad, including a 9-km elevated corridor costing ₹1,656 crore and a world-class trumpet interchange at Budvel.NIMS Expansion: The Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) facility in Hyderabad is on track to become a 2,000-bed facility by the end of 2026.Chevella Banyan Sabotage: Environmentalists reported the suspected sabotage of ancient banyan trees on National Highway 163, with at least 10 trees allegedly set on fire.Vijayawada Regional Development: Coastal Bank opened its 52nd branch in One-Town, Vijayawada, focused on localized financial growth.Eluru Tobacco Raids: Local police in Eluru seized illegal tobacco products from shops near schools under the "Operation Safe Campus Zone".TTD Temples: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam plans to build new Sri Venkateswara temples in Guwahati, Patna, and Belgaum to promote the Bhakti tradition.6. Sports & GamesIndia’s T20 Victory: India took a 1-0 lead in the 5-match series against New Zealand; Abhishek Sharma dazzled with 84 runs off 35 balls.WPL Update: Delhi Capitals defeated Mumbai Indians by 7 wickets in the Women’s Premier League, with significant contributions from Telugu player Sri Charani.Bangladesh WC Status: The ICC rejected the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s demand to shift World Cup matches out of India, giving them 24 hours to rethink their stance.Djokovic’s Century: Novak Djokovic became the first tennis player to record 100 match wins at every individual Grand Slam tournament.National Shooting Trials: Tilottama Sen and Niraj Kumar emerged as leaders in the 50m rifle positions during the national trials.Hockey India League: The Hyderabad Toofans secured a narrow 3-2 victory against HIL GC in a highly competitive match.7. Cinema & EntertainmentVarun Tej’s New Project: On the actor’s birthday, his upcoming horror-comedy film was officially titled Korean Kanakaraju.OTT Premieres: The thriller Shambala is scheduled for release on Aha, while the documentary series Space Zen Chandrayaan will premiere on JioHotstar.Visakha Utsav: The annual Visakha Utsav cultural festival is set to begin on January 24, celebrating local heritage.Designer Passing: The world of fashion mourned the death of legendary Italian designer Valentino Garavani at age 93.Photojournalist Honor: The Indian Christian Journalists Collective provided financial aid to the family of the late senior photojournalist M. Vidyasagar.Saraswati Jayanthi: The Kanaka Durga temple atop Indrakeeladri is preparing for Sri Saraswati Devi Jayanthi (Sri Panchami) on January 23.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Exams)Silver Market Record: For the first time, silver prices in India hit a historic high of ₹3.07 lakh per kg.Fastest Growing Economy: The RBI’s January bulletin maintains that India will remain the world's fastest-growing major economy in FY 2025-26.FDI Leader: India was ranked in the "first league" of investment destinations alongside the U.S., Germany, and the UK in a recent CEO survey.Wikipedia Statistics: Wikipedia’s English edition has crossed 7 million articles, housing a total of 775 terabytes of data.India-UAE Trade Goal: A new strategic partnership between India and the UAE aims to reach $200 billion in bilateral trade by 2032.CAQM Pollution Report: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) identified vehicular emissions (23%) as the primary source of winter pollution in Delhi.9. Do You Know?mBridge CBDC Project: A new cross-border payment platform using Digital Currencies handled $55 billion in transactions and is designed to be "sanction-proof".Aravalli Definition: New environmental standards consider elevations of 100 meters or above and hill clusters within 500 meters as part of the Aravalli range.Apple Pay India: Tech giant Apple is reportedly finalizing plans to launch its digital payment service, Apple Pay, in the Indian market.Bark Spider Silk: Research on Madagascar's bark spiders revealed that females produce significantly tougher silk than males, designed for extreme durability.ISS Lifeboats: Spacecraft like SpaceX's Dragon are permanently docked at the International Space Station as "lifeboats" for emergency crew evacuation.NPS Contributions: Under the National Pension System, employees contribute 10% of their basic pay, which is fully matched by the government.10. Job & Educational TopicsRBI Recruitment: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has opened applications for 572 Office Attendant posts, with a deadline of February 4, 2026.Kavach B.Tech Course: IRISET Secunderabad has partnered with CVR College of Engineering to launch a specialized B.Tech course on the 'Kavach' railway protection system.SAI Coaching Jobs: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) announced 323 vacancies for Assistant Coaches across various sports disciplines.Internship Stipend Hike: The government is considering increasing the PM Internship Scheme stipend from ₹5,000 to ₹11,800 to prevent dropouts.Faculty Recruitment: NIT Calicut and Sri Vasavi Engineering College (Tadepalligudem) have issued notifications for multiple professor and teaching staff positions.NMDC Director Post: The PESB has invited applications for the post of Director (Commercial) at NMDC, with a deadline of February 9, 2026.11. Day Special: 22 JanuaryWEF Davos 2026: Significant sessions at the World Economic Forum featured the "middle powers" address by PM Mark Carney and investment pitches from Indian CMs.M.L.K. Day Remembrance: Events were held across the U.S. and India to honor the legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr..Anniversary of Makwar Dam: Today marks the centenary of the opening of the Makwar Dam on the Blue Nile (January 22, 1926), which revolutionized irrigation in Sudan.Historical CIA Report: Fifty years ago today (January 22, 1976), reports surfaced regarding the CIA's failure to predict India's 1974 nuclear test.Irish Coinage Centenary: January 22, 1926, saw the launch of distinctive coinage for the Irish Free State, featuring the "Pingin" and "Leat Corbin".Monsoon Conclusion: The IMD has officially signaled the complete withdrawal of the 2025 Northeast Monsoon from the Indian peninsula.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsGreenland Standoff: Escalating tensions between the U.S. and Europe over the status of Greenland have pushed global markets deep into the red. U.S. President Trump suggested he is no longer "obliged to pursue peace" due to his past Nobel Peace Prize snub.EU-India Trade Deal: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU and India are on the cusp of a "historic trade agreement" that could create a market of two billion people.Spain Rail Tragedy: The death toll from a high-speed train collision in Cordoba, Spain, has reached 40, with investigators looking into the cause of the tail-end derailment.Russia-India-China (RIC) Dialogue: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called for the reactivation of the RIC trilateral format, asserting that "multipolarity is here to stay".Global Tourism Record: UN Tourism reported that international tourist arrivals reached 1.52 billion last year, a 4% increase over 2024 and a new post-pandemic record.2. National Current AffairsNew BJP Chief: Nitin Nabin (45) officially took charge as the youngest-ever National President of the BJP. PM Modi described him as a "millennial boss" in party matters.Governor Address Controversies: Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi declined to read his customary address in the Assembly for the fourth consecutive time. Similarly, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan accused Governor Rajendra Arlekar of omitting critical paragraphs from the cabinet-approved speech.Electoral Roll Concerns: The Supreme Court issued fresh directions to the Election Commission to "ease the strain" on millions of electors facing verification notices during the Special Intensive Revision.NHAI Debt Management: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to retire over ₹35,000 crore of debt before maturity this fiscal year to bring total liabilities below ₹2 lakh crore.India-UAE Partnership: Following a visit by the UAE President, India and the UAE signed a letter of intent for a strategic defense partnership and set a bilateral trade target of $200 billion by 2032.3. Science & TechnologyStem Cell Excellence: A new Stem Cell Lab Centre of Excellence was inaugurated at NIMS, Hyderabad, to advance regenerative medicine and make therapies more accessible to the public.Critical Mineral Extraction: NALCO is investing up to ₹2,000 crore in pilot projects to commercially extract gallium, iron, and rare earth elements from industrial waste like red mud and fly ash.AI for Health Screening: Homegrown startups in Hyderabad unveiled AI tools for early health screening and diagnostics using smartphone photos at the AIC-CCMB program.Quantum Communication: Researchers are making strides in long-distance quantum entanglement using optical fiber networks, moving closer to a functional "quantum internet".SpaceTech Summit: The Andhra Pradesh Space Tech Summit-2026 is scheduled for January 22–24 at Vignan’s University, featuring the South India Rocketry Challenge.4. States Current AffairsAP Investment Milestone: CM Chandrababu Naidu announced in Davos that Andhra Pradesh has attracted 25% of India's total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).Telangana AI Initiatives: CM Revanth Reddy detailed Telangana's use of AI for tracking farmer subsidies and property tax collections during the World Economic Forum in Davos.AP-RMZ Partnership: The AP government and RMZ Corporation announced a $10 billion partnership for a hyperscale data center in Visakhapatnam and logistics parks in Rayalaseema.EPFO 3.0 Reforms: The central government is preparing to launch "EPFO 3.0," featuring a new IT architecture, AI-powered language translation, and a core banking solution for 80 million members.Kerala 'State Bacterium': Kerala plans to designate India's first "state bacterium" to promote the use of beneficial microbes.5. District & Local NewsVijayawada (Banking): Coastal Bank opened its 52nd branch in One-Town, Vijayawada, focused on regional development.Eluru (Tobacco Raids): Under "Operation Safe Campus Zone," Eluru police seized tobacco products from shops located near educational institutions.APSRTC Revenue Record: The APSRTC achieved its highest-ever single-day revenue of ₹27.68 crore on January 19 due to Sankranti return travel.Krishna (Cyber Probe): Police launched an investigation into a fake Facebook account created in the name of Krishna district SP V. Vidyasagar Naidu to solicit money.Secunderabad (SCB Merger): MLA Sri Ganesh Narayanan began a hunger strike demanding the immediate merger of Secunderabad Cantonment Board civil areas with the GHMC.6. Sports & GamesWPL Results: Delhi Capitals defeated Mumbai Indians by 7 wickets; Telugu player Sri Charani took a crucial wicket for the Capitals.Australian Open: Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka advanced to the second round. Djokovic became the first player to reach 100 match wins at every Grand Slam.Shooting Trials: Tilottama Sen won the women's 50m rifle 3 positions event, while Niraj Kumar of the Navy topped the men's event in the national trials.BCCI Contract Changes: The BCCI is considering removing the 'A+' grade in player contracts, likely moving to a simplified A, B, and C grading system starting the 2025-26 season.Hockey India League (HIL): Hyderabad Toofans defeated HIL GC 3-2 in a closely contested match.7. Cinema & EntertainmentVarun Tej Update: On his birthday, Varun Tej’s next film was officially titled Korean Kanakaraju, described as a horror-comedy.OTT News: The thriller Shambala is set to release on the Aha platform, while Space Zen Chandrayaan is coming to JioHotstar.Visakha Utsav: The annual Visakha Utsav cultural celebrations are scheduled to begin on January 24.In Memoriam: Senior photojournalist M. Vidyasagar, who passed away recently, was honored with financial aid for his family by the Indian Christian Journalists Collective.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Exams)Silver Price Surge: Silver reached an all-time high of ₹3,07,004 per kg in the Indian market on January 20.Core Sector Growth: India's eight key infrastructure sectors grew by 3.7% in December 2025, driven largely by the electricity sector.FDI Rankings: India remains among the top global investment destinations, ranking only behind the U.S. and in league with the UK and Germany according to a CEO survey.Apple Pay in India: Apple Pay is reportedly preparing to enter the Indian digital payments market later this year.9. Do You Know?mBridge Project: This cross-border settlement system using CBDCs handled $55 billion in transactions by January 2026 and is designed to be "sanction-proof".Spider Silk Quality: Scientific studies on bark spiders in Madagascar found that adult females produce exceptionally tough silk, absorbing more strain than silk from males or juveniles.ISS Lifeboats: Spacecraft like the SpaceX Dragon or Soyuz are designated as 'lifeboats' for the ISS, capable of evacuating the crew to Earth within hours in case of emergencies.10. Job & Educational TopicsRBI Recruitment: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) invited applications for 572 posts of Office Attendant. The deadline for online registration is February 4, 2026.Kavach Training: IRISET Secunderabad signed a pact with CVR College of Engineering to introduce a B.Tech course on railway signaling and the 'Kavach' protection system.Central Vacancies: Data shows over 75,000 vacancies in key central departments, including 32,567 in public sector banks and 21,721 in AIIMS and hospitals.Internship Stipends: The government is considering increasing the PM Internship Scheme stipend to ₹11,800 per month.NMDC Hiring: The Public Enterprises Selection Board invited applications for the post of Director (Commercial) in NMDC Limited, due by February 9, 2026.11. Day Special: 21 JanuaryDavos 2026: On January 21, the World Economic Forum continues in Davos with significant participation from Indian political and business leaders, focusing on AI and green energy.Historical Milestone: Today marks the 50th anniversary of reports on the CIA's failure to predict India’s 1974 underground nuclear tests (from January 21, 1976 archives).Engineering Feat: Exactly 100 years ago (January 21, 1926), the Makwar Dam on the Blue Nile in Sudan was officially opened, bringing 300,000 acres under cultivation.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International Current AffairsGreenland Dispute: U.S. President Donald Trump has linked his aggressive stance on Greenland to last year's decision not to award him the Nobel Peace Prize, stating he is no longer "obliged to pursue peace".Spain Train Crash: A catastrophic high-speed train collision in Cordoba, Spain, resulted in at least 40 deaths and 159 injuries.China's Demographic Crisis: China's birth rate has plunged to its lowest level since 1949, with projections that the population aged 60 and over will reach 400 million by 2035.International Diplomacy: European and U.K. leaders are attempting to negotiate with Trump regarding Greenland while ruling out a retaliatory tariff war.Karachi Fire: The death toll from a massive shopping plaza fire in Karachi, Pakistan, has risen to 26, with many still missing.2. National Current AffairsNew BJP President: Nitin Nabin (45) is set to take over as the youngest-ever National President of the BJP, succeeding JP Nadda.India-UAE Strategic Ties: PM Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan signed a 'Letter of Intent' for a strategic defense partnership and set a bilateral trade target of $200 billion by 2032.West Bengal Voter List Issue: The Supreme Court directed the Election Commission to display names of 1.3 crore voters flagged for "logical discrepancies" at panchayat and block offices to ease public stress.J&K Gunfight: Havildar Gendra Singh of the Special Forces was martyred during a fierce encounter with terrorists in Jammu's Kishtwar district.Economic Growth: The IMF upgraded India's GDP growth projection for FY 2025-26 from 6.6% to 7.3%, citing strong momentum in the third and fourth quarters.3. Science & TechnologyBRICS Digital Currency: The RBI has recommended including a proposal to link the central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) of BRICS nations on the agenda for the 2026 summit to simplify cross-border payments.Stem Cell Research: A state-of-the-art "Stem Cell Lab Centre of Excellence" was inaugurated at NIMS, Hyderabad, to advance regenerative medicine and tackle lifestyle diseases.Hydrogen Power: Andhra Pradesh is promoting the development of hydrogen pilot vehicles at its ports to achieve green energy goals.Catalyst Research: Scientists are researching platinum-on-carbon catalysts to improve the effectiveness of hydrogen electric vehicles and prevent nanoparticle clumping.Digital Credit Model: Public sector banks sanctioned MSME loans worth ₹52,300 crore between April and December 2025 using a new digital credit underwriting model.4. States Current AffairsAndhra Pradesh (Entrepreneurship): CM Chandrababu Naidu announced a ₹150-crore corpus fund to boost industrial entrepreneurship and the "One Family, One Entrepreneur" policy.Telangana (Davos Visit): CM Revanth Reddy is in Davos for the WEF summit to position Telangana as a global hub for AI, IT, and life sciences, meeting with CEOs from Google and Salesforce.Himachal Pradesh (New Cess): The state cabinet approved an "Orphan and Widow Cess" on petrol and diesel to fund welfare schemes.Tamil Nadu (Pension Scheme): The state launched the "Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme" (TAPS) to provide 50% of the last month's pay as pension for those who joined after 2003.Chhattisgarh Tourism: The state is being promoted as "The Instagrammable State of India" to attract tourists to its unexplored locations.5. District & Local NewsVijayawada: Dense fog disrupted operations at Gannavaram International Airport, causing flight cancellations and delays of up to four hours.Vizianagaram: An RTC bus ploughed into a field in Garividi Mandal after the driver suffered an epileptic fit; seven passengers were injured.Chittoor: A 10-year-old male elephant died of electrocution after touching live wires set by hunters in Peddapanjani Mandal.Vijayawada (Cybercrime): Police arrested a gang, including a private bank employee, for renting out over 3,000 local bank accounts to international cybercriminals.Nellore: A cobra was seen coiled around a Shiva Lingam at a temple in Manubolu Mandal, drawing many devotees.6. Sports & GamesWomen's Premier League (WPL): RCB became the first team to enter the playoffs after a 61-run victory over Gujarat Giants; Gautami Naik scored a brilliant 71.Australian Open: Novak Djokovic reached the second round and became the first player to achieve 100 match wins at every Grand Slam tournament.Cricket (T20 World Cup): The ICC has given the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) until January 21 to decide on participating in the tournament in India; Scotland may replace them.Ranji Trophy: Star batter Shubman Gill will play for Punjab against Saurashtra starting Thursday to return to red-ball cricket.Shooting: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Manini Kaushik topped the 50m rifle prone trials.7. Cinema & EntertainmentVarun Tej's Birthday: On the actor's birthday, his new film titled Korean Kanakaraju, a horror-comedy directed by Merlapaka Gandhi, was officially announced.OTT Releases: The mystic thriller Shambala starring Sai Kumar is set to stream on Aha, while the series Space Zen Chandrayaan will premiere on JioHotstar.Valentino Dies: Legendary Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani passed away at the age of 93.Photojournalist Passing: Senior photojournalist M. Vidyasagar, with over 30 years of experience, died in Hyderabad at age 63.8. General Knowledge (Competitive Jobs)Silver Record: Silver prices hit a historic high of ₹3 lakh per kg due to rising demand in the electric vehicle and solar sectors.Inflation Targets: The IMF predicts India's inflation will return to the RBI's 4% target range as food prices stabilize.Wikipedia Data: Wikipedia now has 775 terabytes of data (equivalent to 3,000 iPhones) and over 7 million English articles.Nuclear Governance: India is transitioning toward a statutory nuclear regulator to enhance safety and attract global investors.Urban Migration: Reports warn that India needs 14 million affordable urban homes now, a figure that could rise to 30 million by 2030.9. Do You Know?Tiger Census Closure: Safari operations at the Amrabad Tiger Reserve are closed from January 20 to 25 due to the All India Tiger Estimation 2026 exercise.Voter Demographics: In West Bengal's Asansol, a single man was found registered as the "father" of 389 different voters in an AI scan.Indian Heritage: In the decade before 2014, nationalism based on India's spiritual traditions was often viewed as an impediment to secularism.NPS vs. OPS: Employees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) contribute 10% of their basic pay, which is matched by the government.10. Job & Educational TopicsPM Internship Scheme: The government is considering doubling the monthly stipend for interns to ₹11,800 starting March 2026 to reduce dropout rates.Intermediate Exams: Telangana's Intermediate exams for 1.75 lakh students in Hyderabad will begin on February 25; practicals start February 2.Faculty Recruitment: Sri Vasavi Engineering College in Tadepalligudem is inviting applications for Professors and Assistant Professors across various departments.Medical Council Elections: Online elections for 13 members of the AP Medical Council (APMC) are scheduled for February 9.Court Ruling on Education: The Allahabad HC ruled that a student's right to take an exam is linked to human dignity and ordered a special exam for a student denied an admit card.11. Day Special: 20 JanuaryWorld Economic Forum: Both Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu and Telangana CM Revanth Reddy are attending the WEF summit in Davos on this day.Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Observed as a federal holiday in the United States to honor the civil rights leader.Monsoon Exit: The IMD officially declared the withdrawal of the Northeast Monsoon from India on January 20.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsTrump’s Gaza ‘Board of Peace’: U.S. President Donald Trump has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join a proposed "Board of Peace" intended to oversee the reconstruction of Gaza. Invitations have been sent to around 60 nations, though most (except Hungary) have reacted with diplomatic caution.UAE President’s Visit: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, arrived in India for official talks with PM Modi to deepen bilateral collaboration.Greenland Security Stand-off: Tensions escalated in the Arctic as European troops from France and Germany arrived in Greenland to bolster security, countering U.S. strategic interest in the territory.Iran Unrest Update: Reports indicate that over 2,500 people have been killed in the Iranian government's crackdown on nationwide protests. India has evacuated several hundred nationals, including students from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, via commercial flights.2. National Current AffairsPM on ‘Maha Jungle Raj’: During a visit to West Bengal, PM Modi vowed to end what he termed "Maha Jungle Raj" and addressed the issue of infiltrators ahead of assembly elections.Voter Roll Revision Controversy: The Supreme Court is closely monitoring the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls following reports of high name-deletions in states like West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.Digital Arrest Panel: A new inter-departmental panel has been formed to combat the rising menace of "digital arrests" and cyber-extortion.New Road Safety Campaign: The 'Arrive Alive' campaign was launched in major metros, encouraging citizens to pledge adherence to traffic rules via missed calls.3. Science & TechnologyAntibiotics Awareness: Health journals highlighted that antibiotics, pioneered by the discovery of penicillin, have increased global average life expectancy by nearly 23 years.ISRO PSLV-C62 Aftermath: Analysis continues following the loss of 16 satellites (including payloads from startups like Dhruva Space) due to the failure of the PSLV-C62 mission.AI Infrastructure: Google has confirmed a $1.5 billion investment for an AI infrastructure hub in Andhra Pradesh.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Telangana Cabinet Decisions: The historic Cabinet meeting at Medaram cleared Metro Rail Phase-II expansion (₹2,787 crore) and municipal polls for February.Private School Fee Cap: The Telangana government has proposed capping private school fee hikes at 8% every two years, a move rejected by school management associations.AP Green Hydrogen Hub: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan inaugurated the major equipment erection for the world’s largest green ammonia complex in Kakinada.Singareni Coal Tenders: Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka ordered the cancellation of tenders for the Naini coal mines in Odisha following allegations of irregularity.5. District & Local NewsTiger Scare in Yadadri: A male tiger has been spotted just 5km from the Yadagirigutta temple in Yadadri-Bhongir district, where it reportedly killed two calves.Medaram Shrine Renovation: CM Revanth Reddy inaugurated the ₹300-crore renovation works at the Sammakka Saralamma temple in preparation for the upcoming Jatara.Fake Currency Arrest: Hyderabad police arrested three individuals, including a Kenyan national, for circulating high-quality counterfeit ₹500 notes.6. Sports and GamesTata Steel Masters Chess: World Champion D. Gukesh played out a hard-fought draw against Javokhir Sindarov, while Arjun Erigaisi secured a victory over Praggnanandhaa.U19 World Cup: 14-year-old Suryavanshi made history as the youngest player to score a half-century in a Men’s U19 World Cup match as India beat Bangladesh.WPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) moved to the top of the table after a thrilling last-over win against Mumbai Indians.7. Cinema & EntertainmentThe Hindu Lit for Life 2026: The premier literature festival concluded in Chennai, featuring speakers like Banu Mushtaq, Kiran Desai, and Shashi Tharoor.Space Gen: Chandrayaan: The trailer for India’s first OTT series in the space genre, starring Nakuul Mehta and Shriya Saran, has generated significant buzz ahead of its Jan 23 premiere.Telugu Film Hikes: The state government approved temporary ticket price hikes for the highly-anticipated Chiranjeevi-starrer 'Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu'.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Which specialized force is celebrating its Raising Day today, 19 January 2026? Answer: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) (Established in 2006, the NDRF is the world's first dedicated stand-alone disaster response force.)Who have been officially named as the Chief Guests for India's 77th Republic Day Parade in 2026? Answer: António Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission)What is the overarching theme for the Republic Day Parade 2026, which marks a significant musical anniversary? Answer: 150 Years of Vande Mataram (The theme will be reflected in music, tableaux, and a series of historical paintings displayed along Kartavya Path.)Who recently became India's 92nd Chess Grandmaster at the age of 21? Answer: Aaryan Varshney (He achieved his final GM norm in New Delhi, becoming the 8th Grandmaster from the capital city.)In which city will the 78th Indian Army Day parade be held for the first time on 15 January 2026? Answer: Jaipur, Rajasthan (The parade was moved to the "Pink City" as part of the initiative to hold major military events in different regions of India.)Which Indian state is set to host the world's largest "Green Ammonia" complex with a capacity of 1.5 million tonnes? Answer: Andhra Pradesh (Kakinada) (The project will support India's goal to become a global hub for clean energy exports.)India recently signed a "Joint Declaration of Intent on Telecommunications Cooperation" with which country? Answer: Germany (The agreement focuses on 6G technology, network security, and digital transformation.)Which rare subterranean amphibian species was recently discovered in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra? Answer: Gegeneophis valmiki (Named after Maharshi Valmiki, this "blind caecilian" is a limbless, worm-like creature that lives underground.)Who took a spectacular 4-wicket haul to lead India to an 18-run victory against Bangladesh in the U19 World Cup 2026? Answer: Vihaan Malhotra (India maintained its unbeaten streak in the tournament following this rain-affected DLS win.)The Supreme Court recently gave a landmark ruling regarding the $1.6-billion tax dispute involving which venture capital firm? Answer: Tiger Global (The court ruled that the stake sale in Flipkart to Walmart is subject to taxation, overturning a previous High Court order.)NDRF: Established in 2006 under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It currently has 16 operational battalions.Henley Passport Index 2026: India ranked 80th globally.9. Do You Know?The First Stand-Alone Force: India's NDRF is the only force of its kind in the world specifically trained for "Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear" (CBRN) emergencies.The 1923 Paintings: During the 2026 Republic Day, the government will display a rare set of paintings by Tejendra Kumar Mitra from 1923 that visually illustrate every verse of Vande Mataram.Fungal Internet: The Tyler Prize 2026 was awarded to Toby Kiers for discovering that underground fungi create a "Global Underground Atlas"—a massive circulatory system that helps trees trade nutrients, much like a biological internet.The "Battle Array": For the first time in history, the 2026 parade will feature a "Phased Battle Array Display" instead of just a standard march, showing how the Indian Army actually positions itself during a real war.10. Job & Educational TopicsIIT-JEE/NEET Scholarships: Major coaching institutes in Vijayawada and Hyderabad have announced scholarship tests (ASAT) for the 2026-27 session.Agniveer Recruitment: The Indian Army’s recruitment rally in Secunderabad is scheduled to begin on February 2.11. Day Special: January 19 — NDRF Raising DayNational Disaster Response Force (NDRF): Celebrates its 21st Raising Day today.Significance: PM Modi and various state leaders greeted the "men and women in orange" for their selfless service and professionalism in crisis management.Historical Event: On this day in 1966, Indira Gandhi was first elected as the Prime Minister of India.Cultural Note: Kokborok Day (Tripuri Language Day) is observed on January 19 in Tripura to promote the native language.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International News (Special Segment: Republic Day Chief Guests)European Union Leaders to Visit: At the invitation of PM Narendra Modi, António Luís Santos da Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission) will be the Chief Guests for the 77th Republic Day celebrations.India-EU Summit: The leaders will be on a State Visit from January 25 to 27 and will co-chair the 16th India-EU Summit on January 27.Strategic Partnership: This visit is expected to finalize the much-anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with 20 out of 24 chapters already closed.2. National Current Affairs (Republic Day 2026 Highlights)Core Theme: The parade will center on "150 Years of Vande Mataram". Visuals will include a series of 1923 paintings by artist Tejendra Kumar Mitra illustrating the song's verses.No More VVIP Labels: In a shift towards inclusivity, labels like "VVIP" will be removed. All enclosures at Kartavya Path have been named after Indian Rivers (e.g., Ganga, Godavari, Krishna, Jhelum).Unique Tableaux Count: A total of 30 tableaux will participate—17 from States/UTs and 13 from various Ministries/Departments.Special Guests: Around 10,000 special guests from diverse backgrounds, including farmers, artisans, SHG members, and startup founders, have been invited to sit in prominent enclosures.3. Science & Technology (Military Might)Phased Battle Array Format: For the first time, the Indian Army will showcase weapons and systems in a sequence reflecting actual combat usage rather than a stereotypical display.Flypast Alignment: The aerial flypast will not be limited to the end of the parade; it will be integrated into the phased battle array to show the Air Force's role in the order of battle.Indigenous Assets: Key platforms on display include T-90 tanks, MBT Arjun, Nag Missile System (NAMIS-II), BrahMos, and Akash.4. State Current Affairs (Tableaux Highlights)Andhra Pradesh/Telangana Context: While the broad list includes 17 states, specific highlights include:Tamil Nadu: "Mantra of Prosperity: Self-Reliant India – EV Manufacturing Hub".Odisha: "Soil to Silicon: Rooted in Tradition, Rising with Innovation".Maharashtra: "Ganeshotsav: A Symbol of Atmanirbharta".Uttar Pradesh: The tableau will showcase the "Culture of Bundelkhand".5. District & Local NewsMagh Mela, Prayagraj: Authorities expect a turnout of 15–20 crore visitors by the end of the festival season. Tight security involving the Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) and CCTV monitoring is in place at the Sangam.Jallikattu, Alanganallur: The traditional bull-taming sport in Madurai saw high energy. CM M.K. Stalin announced government jobs for the best tamers on a priority basis.6. Sports and GamesYoungest WC Record: 14-year-old Suryavanshi became the youngest player to score a half-century in a Men's U19 World Cup match as India defeated Bangladesh.Hockey India League: Hyderabad Toofans dominated Shrachi Bengal Tigers with a 6-0 victory in the Bhubaneswar leg.India-NZ T20 Series: Shreyas Iyer has replaced the injured Tilak Varma for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.7. Cinema & EntertainmentCultural Creative Team: The Republic Day cultural programme features a star-studded team: M.M. Keeravani (Music Director), Subhash Sehgal (Lyricist), and Anupam Kher (Narrator).Battle of Galwan: Actor Salman Khan is reportedly preparing for a high-intensity project titled Battle of Galwan, slated for an April release.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)On which date does the 150-year celebration theme of 'Vande Mataram' officially begin for the 2026 Republic Day festivities? Answer: 18-19 January 2026 (The Ministry of Defence announced that pan-India band performances on this theme will start on Jan 19 to honor Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.)Which Indian teenage batting prodigy starred in India's victory against Bangladesh in the U19 World Cup on 18 January 2026? Answer: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (The 14-year-old scored a vital 72 off 67 balls to help India maintain an unbeaten start in Group B.)Which major international literary event at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, concludes today, 18 January 2026? Answer: New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) 2026 (The 9-day fair themed “Indian Military History: Valour & Wisdom @ 75” saw participation from major global publishers.)Who became the first Australian player to advance to the second round of the Australian Open 2026 on its opening day? Answer: Talia Gibson (The 21-year-old wildcard stunned world No. 62 Anna Blinkova in straight sets.)Which veteran tennis star made history on 18 January 2026 as the oldest woman (age 45) to compete in the Australian Open main draw? Answer: Venus Williams (She took the court at Melbourne Park, marking her 30th year as a professional player.)India recently signed a trade agreement with which country covering agriculture and sustainability-linked trade as part of its Budget 2026 strategy? Answer: New Zealand (This is part of India's "diversification over dependence" strategy to de-risk its trade portfolio.)Which city is hosting the "Viksit Bharat Yuva Samvad 2026" on 18 January? Answer: Bengaluru (The event focuses on engaging youth in the national vision for a developed India by 2047.)Which spacecraft is projected to become the first human-made object to reach a distance of "one light-day" from Earth in 2026? Answer: Voyager 1 (It continues its journey into interstellar space, further than any other man-made object.)Which Indian state has launched the country's first "Green Ammonia Project" as of January 2026? Answer: Andhra Pradesh (The project aims to produce sustainable fuel for the fertilizer and shipping industries.)Who was awarded the final wildcard for the Australian Open 2026 for "one final push" before retirement? Answer: Stan Wawrinka (The 2014 champion, now 40, announced that 2026 will be his final season on the ATP tour.)9. Do You Know?Winnie the Pooh Day: Today (Jan 18) is National Winnie the Pooh Day, celebrated on the birthday of author A.A. Milne.Thesaurus Day: It is also National Thesaurus Day, honoring Peter Mark Roget (born Jan 18, 1779), the man who created the first modern thesaurus.A Light-Day Away: A "light-day" is the distance light travels in a vacuum in one day, which is approximately 26 billion kilometers.Ecological Sunday: In Rome today, a "Sunday ban" on internal combustion engine vehicles is in effect to promote the circular economy and local agriculture.Gen Z Stare: A social media term for the expressionless look tech-savvy youth give when asked verbal questions.Possible vs. Probable: "Possible" means there is a chance; "Probable" means it is likely to happen based on evidence.10. Job & Educational TopicsIIT-JEE/NEET Admissions: Leading institutes like ALLEN Vijayawada have opened admissions for the 2026-27 session with scholarship tests (ASAT).UPSC Note: The Republic Day theme and the new "Battle Array" format are high-priority topics for current affairs in upcoming civil services exams.11. Day Special: Anniversary Focus - Vande Mataram at 150Theme for RDP 2026: "150 Years of Vande Mataram".Significance: The national song, written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, became a rallying cry for the Indian independence movement.Celebration: Pan-India band performances by the Army, Navy, and IAF will take place at 235 locations, including the birthplace of Chatterjee in West Bengal.Closing Ceremony: The parade will conclude with a massive banner of "वंदेमातरम्" released into the air with thousands of balloons.Chief Guest Precedent: This is only the second time India has invited leaders of a grouping (EU) as Chief Guests, after the ASEAN leaders in 2018.First Mounted Column: The Indian Army will be represented by the 61 Cavalry, the world's only active horse-mounted cavalry regiment.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsIran Protests Update: Anti-government protests in Iran have reportedly abated following a deadly crackdown by security forces. However, tensions remain high as Iranian leaders are accused of orchestrating the response, leading to new U.S. sanctions on five officials.Trump-Machado Meeting: U.S. President Donald Trump met with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado in Washington. During the visit, Machado presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize as a gesture of respect, although the Nobel Institute clarified that the prize cannot be transferred or revoked.Greenland Security: Troops from France and Germany have arrived in Greenland to bolster security amid ongoing disagreements with the U.S. over its strategic interests in the territory.Mitsubishi US Acquisition: Japanese trading house Mitsubishi Corp announced a $7.53 billion deal to buy U.S. shale production and infrastructure assets from Aethan Energy Management, its largest such deal to date.2. National Current AffairsCoal Policy Pivot: The Union Budget for 2026-27 is set to feature a nearly ₹1,50,000-crore incentive push for coal gasification to reduce energy import dependence and revive stranded gas-based power capacity.India-EU Trade Deal: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal described the pending India-EU free trade agreement as the "mother of all deals," stating it will be mutually beneficial and a major boost for Indian exports.SC on Judicial Removal: The Supreme Court rejected Allahabad HC judge Yashwant Varma's plea against a Lok Sabha committee formed to probe his removal, ruling that constitutional safeguards for judges cannot paralyze the removal process.Fertiliser Subsidy Surge: The government’s fertiliser subsidy is expected to reach ₹1.95 lakh crore in FY26, exceeding original budget estimates by ₹28,000 crore due to high demand.New "Gen V" Branding: Officials are positioning India's Gen Z as "Gen V" (Generation Viksit Bharat), highlighting a generation driven by national vision and long-term contribution.3. Science & TechnologyAI Infrastructure Hub: Google announced a $1.5 billion investment to build an artificial intelligence infrastructure hub in Andhra Pradesh.IIT Tirupati 3D Mapping: Researchers at IIT Tirupati are using Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and AI for 3D mapping of underground infrastructure to prevent accidents during excavations and extend the life of concrete structures.Anthropic in India: Anthropic has expanded its operations in India, with the country becoming the second-largest global market for its AI chatbot, Claude.Space Evacuation: SpaceX guided a SpaceX capsule to Earth in the first-ever medical evacuation of an ailing astronaut from the International Space Station.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Green Ammonia Milestone: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan are scheduled to lay the foundation stone for India's first and the world's largest green ammonia complex in Kakinada. The ₹13,000-crore project aims to produce 1.5 million tonnes per annum for global export.Land Dispute Resolution: A.P. CM Naidu announced that the state aims to be completely free of land disputes by 2027 through a comprehensive survey and the use of blockchain technology for records.Life Sciences Policy: Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy will launch the "NextGen Life Sciences Policy (2026-30)" at the World Economic Forum in Davos, aiming for a $250 billion state life sciences economy by 2030.Redgram Procurement: Telangana Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao stated that Kharif redgram procurement is underway at an MSP of ₹8,000 per quintal.5. District & Local NewsSankranti Festivities: Traditional celebrations like the 'Jaggannathota Prabhalotsavam' in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district saw a massive congregation of devotees.UP NEET PG Counseling: Candidates for UP NEET PG 2025 must complete online registration and deposit security funds to be eligible for choice filling.Medaram Prasadam Delivery: TGSRTC has launched a service to deliver 'Gold' (jaggery) prasadam from the Medaram Jatara to devotees' doorsteps for a fee of ₹299.6. Sports and GamesIndia-NZ T20Is: Shreyas Iyer has been named as a replacement for the injured Tilak Varma for the first three T20Is against New Zealand.Vijay Hazare Trophy: Vidarbha and Saurashtra have advanced to the final of the domestic one-day tournament.Chess Grandmaster: 15-year-old Aryan has become India's 92nd Grandmaster.Australian Open 2026: Tennis legend Roger Federer will return to the Rod Laver Arena to play an exhibition match during the opening ceremony.7. Cinema & EntertainmentNew Title Reveal: Director Puri Jagannadh and actor Vijay Sethupathi's upcoming collaboration has been titled Slum Dog: 33 Temple Road.Jaipur Literature Festival: The festival opened with a focus on International Booker Prize-winning authors.The Hindu Lit for Life: The 2026 edition of the literature festival began in Chennai, featuring over 100 speakers and sessions on the Constitution and independent India.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Who has been appointed as the new National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in January 2026? Answer: Nitin Nabin (He succeeds the previous president as the party prepares for major state elections in 2026.)Which international organization recently described India as a "Major Growth Engine" for the global economy in 2026? Answer: IMF (International Monetary Fund) (The IMF highlighted India's consistent 7%+ GDP growth as a stabilizing factor for the world market.)Which state government signed an agreement to set up India's first full-stack "Sovereign AI Park" with a ₹10,000 crore investment? Answer: Tamil Nadu (The park, in partnership with Sarvam AI, aims to keep data and AI research models within the state's secure boundary.)A boy in which state recently found a small copper pot of gold ornaments while digging, leading to a major archaeological excavation order? Answer: Karnataka (The discovery has sparked interest in the region's historical treasure links.)Air India and which global airline signed a Commercial Cooperation Framework Agreement in Mumbai on 16 January 2026? Answer: Singapore Airlines (SIA) (The agreement, signed by CEO Campbell Wilson, aims to deepen the strategic partnership and flight connectivity between India and Singapore.)The "Finke River," recently identified by geologists as potentially the world's oldest river system (300 million years), is located in which country? Answer: Australia (It is also known as the Larapinta river and flows through central Australia.)Which major tennis tournament is set to begin its main draw on 18-19 January 2026, featuring veteran Venus Williams as the oldest woman competitor at age 45? Answer: Australian Open 2026 (The "Happy Slam" will also see Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as top seeds.)The Indian government recently issued an urgent security advisory for its citizens to leave which country due to escalating regional tensions? Answer: Iran (Several Indian nationals have already returned to Delhi via commercial flights following the embassy's notice.)Which state is currently facing an alert for the "Nipah Virus" after cases were reported in its neighboring state of West Bengal? Answer: Jharkhand (The state health department has heightened surveillance in border districts.)Indian Railways is set to launch a new "Vande Bharat Sleeper" train today, 17 January 2026. What is its primary advantage over the Rajdhani Express? Answer: Faster acceleration and higher speed (160 km/h) (The sleeper version features advanced jerk-free technology and a focus on overnight luxury travel.)GPR Technology: Ground Penetrating Radar uses electromagnetic waves to map underground objects like pipes and cables.Unicorn Count: India remains the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world with approximately 125 unicorns.9. Do You Know?The "Romeo-Juliet" Legal Clause: The Supreme Court of India has officially suggested adding a "Romeo-Juliet" clause to the POCSO Act. This is a rare move designed to protect adolescents in consensual relationships from being treated as criminals under laws meant to stop sexual abuse.A New "Ginger Capital": NITI Aayog has officially designated Mizoram as the "Ginger Capital of India" today. This is due to the state's breakthrough in producing organic ginger that meets international pharmaceutical standards.The 300-Million-Year-Old River: Scientists have confirmed that the Finke River in Australia is likely the world's oldest river system. Interestingly, it only flows a few days a year; for the rest of the time, it remains a dry bed with ancient hidden waterholes.Karnataka's Treasure Hunt: In Lakkundi village (Gadag district), the government has launched a massive official "treasure hunt" today. This follows a local boy finding a small copper pot filled with 470 grams of 400-year-old gold ornaments while digging for a house foundation."Sovereign AI" Security: Tamil Nadu's new ₹10,000 crore Sovereign AI Park is unique because the state will own its own "GPU clusters." Unlike other AI hubs, this ensures that sensitive government data never touches a foreign-owned server.Kid Inventors' Day: Today is International Kid Inventors' Day (celebrated on Benjamin Franklin's birthday). It honors the fact that everyday items like Popsicles (invented by an 11-year-old) and Braille (invented by a 15-year-old) were created by children.Ponduru Khadi GI Tag: The famous Ponduru Khadi from Andhra Pradesh has officially received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag today. It is the only Khadi in India made from a special variety of "Hill Cotton" that is hand-spun with fish bones.Low-Calorie "Rare" Sugar: Scientists have announced a breakthrough in producing Tagatose, a natural sugar that is 90% as sweet as table sugar but has almost zero impact on blood glucose levels. It is being hailed as the "future of diabetes-friendly sweets."The 90% AI Bet: An Indian entrepreneur (Suumit Shah of Dukaan) has shared a shocking update today: after replacing 90% of his support staff with AI chatbots, his customer response time dropped from 2 minutes to zero (instant)."Miyawaki" Speed Forests: Major Indian cities are reporting today that their new Miyawaki-style urban forests are growing 10 times faster and are 30 times denser than traditional parks, helping to lower local temperatures by up to 2°C in just two years.Search Me: An informal expression meaning "I have no idea".Methanol Poisoning: A dangerous condition caused by inhaling or ingesting methanol; a recent investigation was triggered after a tanker crew was found dead.Gen Z Stare: A social media term for the expressionless response given by tech-reliant individuals when asked simple verbal questions.10. Job & Educational TopicsUPI for EPF: The Union Labour Ministry is working on a project to allow EPFO members to withdraw funds directly through UPI by April 2026.Campus Equity Committees: The UGC is directing universities to form committees to tackle caste-based and other forms of discrimination.Skill Development Milestone: Andhra Pradesh's SEEDAP has successfully provided employment to over 10,000 youth in sectors like nursing and electrical work in Germany.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsU.S. Sanctions on Iran: The United States has imposed new sanctions on five Iranian officials, accusing them of orchestrating the crackdown on nationwide protests. The U.S. Treasury is also tracking Iranian leaders' funds being wired to international banks.Canada-China Diplomatic Push: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is on his first trip to China in eight years to meet President Xi Jinping. Canada is attempting to diversify its markets following the imposition of heavy U.S. tariffs.Greenland Security Tensions: Troops from several European countries, including France and Germany, have arrived in Greenland to boost the island's security amid "fundamental disagreement" with the U.S. over its strategic intentions for the territory.Singapore Political Move: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong removed Indian-origin Workers Party chief Pritam Singh as the Leader of the Opposition following Singh's court conviction for lying to a parliamentary committee.2. National Current AffairsIndia-EU Trade Progress: India and the European Union have successfully closed 20 out of 24 chapters in their free trade agreement negotiations. Both parties aim to reach a deal before EU leaders, who will be chief guests at the Republic Day parade, visit India later this month.Evacuation from Iran: India has initiated steps to evacuate its approximately 10,000 nationals from Iran following the temporary closure of Iranian airspace due to rising regional tensions.SC Notice to West Bengal CM: The Supreme Court issued a notice to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and top police officials on an Enforcement Directorate (ED) plea seeking a CBI probe into alleged obstruction of search operations at the I-PAC office.Exit Polls for BMC: Exit polls predict a significant sweep for the BJP-led alliance in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.3. Science & TechnologyLethal Pathogen Lab in Gujarat: Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation for India’s first state-funded Bio-Safety Level 4 (BSL-4) containment facility in Gandhinagar. This "health shield" will allow research on the deadliest pathogens like Ebola and Nipah.Pax Silica Inclusion: India has been belatedly inducted into the U.S.-led "Pax Silica" strategic initiative, which aims to build secure supply chains for semiconductors, AI, and critical minerals to counter China’s dominance.NASA Medical Evacuation: An ailing astronaut was successfully returned to Earth early in the first-ever medical evacuation from the International Space Station, guided by a SpaceX capsule.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Google Investment in A.P.: Google announced a $1.5 billion investment to build an AI infrastructure hub in Andhra Pradesh.Telangana Legislators Disqualification: The Telangana Speaker dismissed disqualification petitions against two BRS legislators who switched to the Congress party.A.P. Genco Sustainable Storage: AP-Genco is moving ahead with Pumped Storage Hydro Projects to ensure long-term sustainable energy storage.5. District & Local NewsAlpha 2 Sector Health Scare: Over 70 residents in Alpha 2, Greater Noida, fell ill after consuming water allegedly contaminated with sewage due to corroded pipelines.Delhi Traffic QR Payments: Delhi Traffic Police has integrated a new system allowing citizens to pay traffic challans on the spot by scanning QR codes for UPI transactions.Indore Water Contamination Audit: A death audit report in Indore confirmed that at least 15 out of 23 recent deaths are suspected to have been caused by contaminated water.6. Sports and GamesU-19 World Cup Heritage: India defeated the USA in their opening game of the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Interestingly, one in every three cricketers in the entire tournament traces their ancestry to South Asia.India Open Badminton: Lakshya Sen has progressed to the quarterfinals and is set to take on Lin Chun-Yi.Hockey India League: JSW Soorma Hockey Club secured their first victory of the 2026 season by defeating the HIL Governing Council 3-1.7. Cinema & EntertainmentJaipur Literature Festival: The festival opened with a focus on International Booker Prize-winning authors, including Banu Mushtaq and Kiran Desai.3rd International Kite Festival: Inaugurated by Amit Shah in New Delhi, the festival celebrates traditional craftsmanship and culture.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Which state has recently been officially declared as the "Ginger Capital of India" by NITI Aayog? Answer: Mizoram (The state received this recognition due to its rapid growth in production and the high quality of ginger grown by local farmers.)Which Indian state recently announced a major "Wildlife Exchange Programme" with Assam to receive rhinos and wild water buffaloes in exchange for tigers? Answer: Madhya Pradesh (Assam will send rhinos and buffaloes to MP, while MP will provide tigers and crocodiles to Assam.)The Supreme Court of India recently suggested introducing which specific clause in the POCSO Act to protect consensual adolescent relationships? Answer: "Romeo-Juliet" Clause (The court urged the Union government to ensure that consensual relationships between adolescents are not unfairly prosecuted under the Act.)Who is the first Indian to receive the rare "Samurai Martial Arts Honour" in Japan? Answer: Pawan Kalyan (The honor was conferred in recognition of his contributions and dedication to martial arts.)According to the "Global Risk Report 2026" released by the World Economic Forum (WEF), what is the top short-term global risk? Answer: Geoeconomic Confrontation (The report highlights trade wars, sanctions, and the weaponization of economic tools as the most immediate threats.)India is set to join which US-led global technology alliance in February 2026? Answer: Pax Silica Initiative (This initiative focuses on technology security and creating a secure global supply chain for semiconductors and electronics.)Which Indian bank has launched the country’s first "Solar-Powered ATM Van"? Answer: Punjab National Bank (PNB) (The van is designed to provide mobile banking services in remote areas while operating entirely on renewable energy.)The "Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary," which was recently in the news for hosting over 6,500 rescued monkeys, is located on which hill range? Answer: Aravalli Range (The sanctuary spans the Southern Delhi Ridge and extends into parts of Haryana.)Which Indian personality was recently appointed as the Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)? Answer: Shatrujeet Kapur (The senior IPS officer has taken charge of the elite mountain-trained force.)In which city was the "Third Indian Lighthouse Festival" recently organized to promote maritime tourism? Answer: Visakhapatnam (The festival highlights the historical significance of lighthouses and their role in India's coastal heritage.)Unicorn Status: India ranks third globally in terms of the number of unicorns according to the Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2025.BSL-4 Facility: Represents the highest level of biological containment for researching dangerous pathogens.9. Do You Know?Oldest River: The Finke River in Australia (known to locals as Larapinta) is being highlighted by geologists today as the oldest river system in the world, dating back over 300 million years.Samurai Honor: The Samurai martial arts honor received by Pawan Kalyan is a rare distinction, as it is usually reserved for practitioners who have mastered the philosophy of Bushido alongside physical combat.Miyawaki Forests: Many Indian cities are now adopting the Miyawaki Method, which allows native forests to grow 10x faster and 30x denser than traditional plantations, helping fight urban heat.Jamma Bane Lands: A unique form of hereditary land tenure in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, originally granted for military service.Gen Z Stare: An expression coined on social media to describe the awkward, expressionless look given by tech-dependent individuals when asked a simple verbal question.10. Job & Educational TopicsAICTE Caution: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) issued a public notice warning students against fraudulent Ed-Tech companies offering unapproved diploma and degree courses.SBI Property Fest: State Bank of India is hosting "Griha Utsav," a grand property fest in Gurugram on January 17-18, featuring over 250 approved projects and on-the-spot home loan assistance.11. Day Special: 10th Anniversary of National Startup Day (January 16)Vision: The Startup India initiative was launched on January 16, 2016, to cultivate innovation and stimulate investments.Milestones Over 10 Years:2+ Lakh startups are registered in the country today.45% of these startups are based in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.48% of startups have at least one woman director.20+ Lakh direct jobs have been created.₹15 Lakh Crore in total funding has been secured by Indian startups.Key Celebrations: Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a special address at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, to commemorate "10 Glorious Years of Startup India".New Policies: Tamil Nadu recently launched India’s first Deeptech Startup Policy to specifically support high-tech innovation.Funding News: Union Minister Piyush Goyal unveiled the second edition of 'Anusandhan', a ₹1 lakh crore startup fund.
Authored By: K Shiva1. International NewsEscalating Iran-U.S. Tensions: The head of Iran's judiciary, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, has defied warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump, signaling swift trials and executions for those detained in nationwide anti-government protests. At least 2,571 people have been killed in the crackdown so far.U.S. Strategic Interest in Greenland: President Trump reiterated that U.S. control of Greenland is "vital" for his proposed "Golden Dome" air and missile defense system. He stated the U.S. needs the island for national security purposes, sharpening rhetoric ahead of talks with Danish officials.India-U.S. Strategic Dialogue: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Discussions focused on trade, critical minerals, nuclear energy, and defense cooperation, marking an effort to stabilize ties after the U.S. imposed heavy tariffs on Indian goods.Thailand Rail Accident: A construction crane fell onto a moving passenger train in northeastern Thailand, causing a fiery derailment that killed at least 30 people.2. National Current AffairsIndia's GDP Growth Projections: Deloitte India projects India's GDP to grow by 7.5-7.8% in FY26, driven by resilient domestic demand. Meanwhile, the World Bank has raised its projection to 7.2% for the same period.Henley Passport Index 2026: The Indian passport has been ranked 80th, an improvement of five places from the previous year. Indian citizens can now travel visa-free or get visa-on-arrival in 55 countries.UGC Anti-Discrimination Rules: The University Grants Commission (UGC) is set to establish campus equity committees and has expanded the definition of caste-based discrimination to include Other Backward Classes (OBCs).West Bengal Legal Battle: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear an Enforcement Directorate (ED) petition seeking a CBI probe into alleged obstruction of searches by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee during a money laundering investigation.3. Science & TechnologySmall Modular Reactors (SMR): AP-Genco is planning to set up a Small Modular Reactor to diversify its power mix and explore sustainable energy options.Topological Physics Review: Researchers have been urged to rethink "smoking gun" signals in topological physics, emphasizing the need for sharing all experimental data to avoid misinterpreting nanoscopic quirks as fundamental physical phenomena.Infosys Financial Hit: Infosys reported a one-time exceptional hit of ₹1,289 crore due to the implementation of new labor codes in the third quarter of FY26.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Telangana NextGen Life Sciences Policy: CM A. Revanth Reddy will launch a new life sciences policy (2026-30) at the World Economic Forum in Davos next week. The state aims to build a $250 billion life sciences economy by 2030.Andhra Pradesh PPP Focus: The Union Health Ministry has urged the A.P. government to adopt Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models to expand healthcare services, including nuclear medicine and dental care.Local Body Reservations: The Telangana government has finalized reservations for municipal wards, chairpersons, and mayors for 121 municipalities and 10 corporations ahead of upcoming elections.A.P. Genco Sustainable Storage: AP-Genco is constructing Pumped Storage Hydro Projects (PSHP) as long-term sustainable storage options, expected to last at least 50 years.5. District & Local NewsKite Manja Fatality: A 38-year-old farmer in Sangareddy, Telangana, died after his throat was slit by a kite string (manja) while he was riding a motorcycle.Bhu Bharati Scam: A land registration scam in Telangana involving the Bhu Bharati e-challan system has caused an estimated loss of ₹52 crore to the state exchequer.Guinness Record in Tirupati: The Sri Sakthi Peetam achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest congregation of married women (10,000) at the 'Dasa Sahasra Suvasini Puja'.Hot Air Balloon Festival: Hyderabad is set to host a Hot Air Balloon Festival from January 16 to 18, with test flights already conducted at Gandipet.6. Sports and GamesIndia-NZ ODI Series: New Zealand drew level in the series with a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the second ODI.WPL 2026: Delhi Capitals secured a seven-wicket win over UP Warriorz, with Shafali Verma delivering a game-changing performance.India Open Badminton: Kidambi Srikanth and H.S. Prannoy progressed to the second round, while P.V. Sindhu faced an early exit. Anders Antonsen pulled out of the tournament citing Delhi's extreme pollution.7. Cinema & EntertainmentBattle of Galwan: Actor Salman Khan is preparing for a high-profile film based on the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, scheduled for release on April 17.The Hindu Lit for Life 2026: The sharpest literature festival in India begins in Chennai on January 17, featuring over 100 speakers including former CJI Y. Chandrachud.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)On which date is Indian Army Day observed annually across the country? Answer: 15 January (It marks the 78th anniversary of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa taking command as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief in 1949.)Where is the grand parade for the 78th Indian Army Day being held for the first time in 2026? Answer: Jaipur (Rajasthan) (The event was moved to Jaipur to connect with the civilian population, specifically in the "Pink City.")What is the theme for Indian Army Day 2026? Answer: "Year of Networking and Data Centricity" (The theme highlights the Army's shift toward AI-driven warfare and digital transformation.)According to the Henley Passport Index 2026 released today, what is the current rank of the Indian passport? Answer: 80th (The Indian passport climbed five places, showing improved global mobility for Indian citizens.)Who has been nominated to chair the United Nations Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters for the 2026–27 term? Answer: D.B. Venkatesh Varma (This is the first time an Indian national has been appointed to head this prestigious board since 1978.)Which Indian state has activated the "Karuna Abhiyan" to protect birds during the Uttarayan festival? Answer: Gujarat (The campaign focuses on treating birds injured by kite strings during the kite-flying season.)Which private sector bank recently appointed Anup Kumar Saha as its Whole-Time Director? Answer: Kotak Mahindra Bank (His appointment is subject to regulatory approval, and he will oversee the consumer banking vertical.)Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh is visiting which country from Jan 13–15 to participate in the Global Blue Food Security Summit? Answer: Israel (The summit focuses on fisheries, aquaculture, and the global blue economy.)Which bank has set a national benchmark by launching India's first solar-powered ATM van? Answer: Tripura Gramin Bank (This initiative aims to improve digital banking access in remote rural areas of Northeast India.)Why were the Indian stock markets (BSE and NSE) closed for trading today, 15 January 2026? Answer: Municipal Corporation Elections in Maharashtra (Trading was suspended across all segments due to polling in 29 municipal corporations.)First Indian Commander-in-Chief: Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa took over from Gen. Sir Francis Butcher in 1949.Viksit Bharat (VB-GRAM G) Act: A new rural employment and livelihood mission act passed in 2025.9. Do You Know?Army Day History: Though we celebrate today, the Indian Army actually dates back to 1776, when it was formed under the East India Company in Kolkata.The Jaipur Parade: Holding the parade in Jaipur is part of the "Out of Delhi" initiative to showcase military prowess in different states.Solar ATMs: Solar-powered mobile ATMs can save up to 40% in operational costs compared to traditional grid-connected machines.Henley Index: The rank of 80 allows Indian citizens to travel to 62 countries either visa-free or with visa-on-arrival.Possible vs. Probable: "Possible" implies a chance of happening, while "Probable" indicates a strong likelihood supported by evidence.Extempore: A term meaning speech or action performed without prior preparation or forethought.Sankranti Rituals: Traditional Bhogi bonfires symbolize discarding old, negative energies and welcoming positivity.10. Job & Educational TopicsAustralia Visa Alert: Australia has flagged Indian students as "high risk" for student visa applications, requiring stricter financial proof and tougher interviews.Armed Forces Tribunal Recruitment: Applications are invited for the posts of Registrar and Joint Registrar on a deputation basis.JIPMER Senior Residents: JIPMER Puducherry has issued a rolling advertisement for the post of Senior Resident across various departments.11. Day Special: 78th Indian Army Day (January 15)Theme 2026: "Year of Networking & Data Centricity".Motto: "Service Before Self".Significance: To honor the bravery of the soldiers of the Indian Army. It commemorates the day in 1949 when Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa (then Lt Gen) became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army.Current Leaders:CDS: Lt Gen. Anil Chauhan.Army Chief: General Upendra Dwivedi.Air Chief: Amar Preet Singh.Naval Chief: Dinesh Kumar Tripathi.Recent Achievement: The Indian Army has created a modern warfare force named 'Bhairav' comprising over 1 lakh drone operatives to enhance its combat capabilities.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International NewsIran Protest Toll: Official reports from Iran acknowledge that over 2,000 people, including protesters and security personnel, have been killed in the nationwide unrest. U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Iranians to continue protesting, stating "help is on its way".U.S. Tariffs on Iran Trade: President Trump announced a 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran. India’s trade with Iran is relatively low at approximately $1.6 billion (0.15% of total trade), so the impact is expected to be minimal, though tea and basmati rice exports may be affected.Syria Conflict: The Syrian army has declared a "closed military zone" east of Aleppo following clashes with Kurdish-led forces.2. National Current Affairs10-Minute Delivery Ban: Following an intervention by Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, major quick commerce platforms like Blinkit, Swiggy, Zepto, and Zomato have agreed to drop their "10-minute delivery" branding to protect the health and safety of gig workers.Jaishankar-Rubio Talks: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed trade, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation, and defense. The U.S. congratulated India on the SHANTI (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) Bill.SC on Public Servants: The Supreme Court delivered a split verdict on the constitutionality of Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which requires prior sanction to prosecute public servants.Voter Roll Deletions: The Supreme Court questioned the Election Commission regarding the deletion of nearly 6.5 crore names from draft electoral rolls in several states during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).3. Science & TechnologyISRO PSLV-C62 Failure: The recent PSLV-C62 mission failed, resulting in the loss of 16 satellites, including several from Hyderabad-based startups like Dhruva Space.Kite-Flying Innovation: A group of engineers in Gujarat has developed robotic kites operated by remote control that can perform aerial maneuvers and feature LED lights for night flying.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)AP Excise Policy Change: The Andhra Pradesh government has withdrawn the Additional Retail Excise Tax (ARET) on bars to bring pricing parity with retail shops.Medaram Jatara Preparations: Telangana is preparing for the Sammakka-Saralamma Medaram Maha Jatara (Jan 28-31), expecting a record footfall of 3 crore devotees.Skill Development Case Closed: A Vijayawada court approved the closure of the APSSDC case against CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, accepting the CID's report that the allegations were a "mistake of fact".SIT for IAS Harassment: Telangana Police formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the circulation of defamatory and obscene content targeting a woman IAS officer.5. District & Local NewsKakinada Fire Accident: A short circuit at Sarlanka village in Kakinada district destroyed 38 houses belonging to the Konda Reddi tribe.Synthetic Manja Ban: The Telangana Forest Department inspected over 200 shops in Hyderabad to curb the illegal sale of nylon/Chinese manja ahead of Sankranti.Kolleru Lake Visitors: The Kolleru Wildlife Sanctuary recorded over 96,000 birds of 116 different species in the first week of January.6. Sports and GamesIndia vs NZ 2nd ODI: The second match of the ODI series takes place today in Rajkot. India leads the series 1-0.Vijay Hazare Trophy: Vidarbha and Punjab have advanced to the semifinals after defeating Delhi and Madhya Pradesh, respectively.India Open Badminton: Lakshya Sen started his campaign with a win, defeating Ayush Shetty (21-12, 21-15).7. Cinema & EntertainmentSpace Gen: Chandrayaan: A new OTT series titled Space Gen: Chandrayaan, starring Nakuul Mehta and Shriya Saran, is set to premiere on January 23.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently unveiled the official logo and website for which global grouping that India will chair in 2026? Answer: BRICS (India will lead the BRICS bloc in 2026 as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.)Which harvest festival is being widely celebrated across India today, 14 January 2026, known as Pongal in Tamil Nadu and Maghi in Punjab? Answer: Makar Sankranti (It is a major solar festival marking the sun's transition into the Makara Rashi/Capricorn.)Which state has announced a new law to cut the salaries of government employees who neglect their elderly parents? Answer: Telangana (Chief Minister Revanth Reddy announced this strict social measure to ensure the welfare of senior citizens.)India recently completed how many years of being officially "Polio-Free," a milestone celebrated on 13-14 January 2026? Answer: 15 Years (India has maintained its polio-free status since the last case was reported in 2011.)Which tech giant has partnered with Google to use 'Gemini' AI models to revamp its Siri voice assistant? Answer: Apple (The partnership aims to strengthen AI capabilities against competitors like OpenAI.)Which state is set to launch India's first "Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Registry" to track and manage patient data? Answer: Odisha (This initiative will help the state plan better healthcare infrastructure and early intervention for kidney patients.)The "Bhadrakali Inscription," which was recently in the news, provides historical records for which famous Indian temple? Answer: Somnath Temple, Gujarat (The 12th-century inscription confirms the temple's reconstruction history across different eras.)Which Indian organization recently conducted successful trials of the indigenous Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM)? Answer: DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) (The trials were conducted in collaboration with the Indian Army to verify day-and-night operational accuracy.)Who has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indonesia National Men's Soccer Team in January 2026? Answer: John Herdman (The former Canada and New Zealand coach has taken over to lead the team through upcoming qualifiers.)Which international body is organizing a global webinar today on "Social Health and Digital Play" to study the impact of video games? Answer: World Health Organization (WHO) (The webinar explores how digital environments impact mental and social well-being.)9. Do You Know?Cold Wave Record: Today, Delhi recorded its coldest January morning in three years, with temperatures dropping to 3°C.Goldilocks Moment: Economists are describing India’s current state as a "Goldilocks Moment"—where growth is high (8.2% GDP) but inflation remains low.Drone Power: The Indian Navy has started inducting the Drishti-10 Starliner, a high-end drone that can fly for 36 hours straight for maritime surveillance.Bactrian Camels: For the first time, double-humped Bactrian Camels will be part of the Army's animal contingent in the 2026 Republic Day parade.10. Job & Educational TopicsECIL Recruitment: ECIL Hyderabad is recruiting Technicians and Supervisors on a contract basis.Army Recruitment: A major Army recruitment rally for 'Agniveers' will be held in Secunderabad starting February 2.11. Day Special: Bhogi (January 14)Significance: Bhogi is the first day of the four-day Makar Sankranti festival. It marks the discarding of the old to welcome the new.Rituals: A ceremonial bonfire (Bhogi Mantalu) is lit at dawn using old clothes and discarded items to symbolize a fresh start. In many households, children are showered with Bhogi Pallu (jujube fruits, flower petals, and coins) to protect them from "evil eye" and bless them with wisdom.Sankranti Greetings: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu participated in celebrations at Naravaripalle, extending greetings for prosperity and positive change to all Telugu people
Authored by: K Shiva1. International NewsU.S.-Venezuela Crisis: In a dramatic escalation, U.S. President Donald Trump designated himself as the "Acting President of Venezuela" via a post on Truth Social. This follows the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces earlier in January 2026.Trump and Greenland: President Trump reiterated his intent to "do something" regarding Greenland, regardless of Denmark's warning that its troops would defend the territory.Iran Unrest: Major cities in Iran faced new mass rallies denouncing the Islamic Republic. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the U.S. for the protests, while the death toll has reportedly surpassed 500.Germany-India Relations: Germany announced a visa-free transit facility for Indian passport holders traveling through its airports. Additionally, India and Germany signed 27 outcomes, including a defense industrial cooperation roadmap for co-producing defense platforms.Rohingya Genocide Hearing: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) began hearings on the genocide case against Myanmar, with harrowing accounts of violence presented by The Gambia.2. National Current AffairsNew U.S. Ambassador: Sergio Gor assumed office as the U.S. Ambassador to India. He emphasized that India is an "essential partner" and announced upcoming talks on a proposed trade deal.Preventive Detention Ruling: The Supreme Court ruled that preventive detention cannot be used solely based on the fear that an accused might commit another crime after getting bail; it must be handled under ordinary law, such as bail cancellation.Viksit Bharat (VB-GRAM G): The government is promoting the VB-GRAM G Act 2025, which replaces MGNREGA with a mission focusing on rural employment, water security, and real-time monitoring.Somnath Swabhiman Parv: PM Modi warned that "forces of appeasement" and "religious terrorism" that opposed the temple’s reconstruction remain active in India.Aadhaar Rail Booking: IRCTC extended the booking slot for Aadhaar-authenticated users, allowing them to book general reserved tickets until midnight on the opening day of the reservation period.3. Science & TechnologyISRO Launch Failure: The PSLV-C62 mission failed on January 12. An anomaly during the third stage caused the rocket to deviate, resulting in the loss of the EOS-N1 (Anvesha) spy satellite and 15 other co-passenger satellites.X (Twitter) Compliance: Following a warning from the Centre regarding obscene content generated by its Grok AI, X (formerly Twitter) accepted its mistake and assured the government it would comply with Indian laws.Smartphone Security: The Centre is considering a requirement for smartphone makers to disclose source codes for vulnerability analysis and malware scanning, despite opposition from tech giants like Apple and Samsung.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Telangana District Reorganization: CM Revanth Reddy announced a judicial commission to scientifically reorganize districts, revenue divisions, and mandals in Telangana.Andhra Pradesh Infrastructure Records: The Bengaluru-Vijayawada high-speed highway construction achieved four Guinness World Records, including the fastest construction of a 52-km six-lane bituminous highway.Polavaram Legal Dispute: The Supreme Court dismissed Telangana's writ petition against the Polavaram-Nallamalasagar Link Project (PNLP), advising the state to file a civil suit under Article 131 instead.AP Economic Reset: CM Chandrababu Naidu released ₹2,653 crore in DA arrears and pending bills for government employees and contractors as a Sankranti gesture.Thalassemia-Free Telangana: The state set a goal to become the first thalassemia-free state in India by 2035.5. District & Local NewsCybercrime Rescue: AP CID, in a joint operation with central agencies, rescued 22 youths trapped in a cybercrime "compound" in Myanmar.Khammam Fraud: Police busted an inter-state cyber fraud network involving ₹540 crore and arrested 18 individuals.Chinese Manja Crackdown: Hyderabad police seized thousands of bobbins of banned Chinese manja worth over ₹16 lakh.Leopard Hunt: A leopard that had terrorized a village in Uttarakhand for 48 days was gunned down after killing livestock and attacking villagers.6. Sports and GamesCricket Milestone: Virat Kohli became the second-highest run-getter in international cricket history, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara’s tally of 28,016 runs during the 1st ODI against New Zealand.Senior National Boxing: Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain secured titles at the Senior National Boxing Championships.Women's Premier League (WPL): Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated UP Warriorz by 9 wickets, with Grace Harris scoring 85 runs.Volleyball: Kerala's women’s team and the Indian Railways men’s team won the 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championships.7. Cinema & EntertainmentVijay’s Final Film: Jana Nayagan, the final film of actor-turned-politician Vijay, faced release delays due to a stay by the Madras High Court over content concerns related to religious sentiments.Ticket Price Hikes: The Telangana government allowed a ticket price hike for Chiranjeevi's movie 'Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu' for the first 10 days of release.Sankranti Negativity: Actor Vijay Devarakonda addressed organized online negativity targeting major film releases.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Which harvest festival is being celebrated across North India, especially in Punjab and Haryana, on 13 January 2026? Answer: Lohri (It marks the end of the winter solstice and is celebrated with traditional bonfires and folk songs.)Who was recently sworn in as the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court? Answer: Justice Revati Mohite-Dere (She was previously a judge at the Bombay High Court and was administered the oath by Governor C.H. Vijayashankar.)Union Minister Chirag Paswan recently inaugurated the 9th edition of 'Indusfood 2026' in which city? Answer: Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) (It is Asia's premier global Food and Beverage sourcing and trade show.)Which famous Indian hockey player and 1980 Moscow Olympics gold medalist passed away on 10 January 2026? Answer: Davinder Singh Garcha (He was a key member of the team that won India’s 8th Olympic gold medal in hockey.)Sergio Gor has recently assumed charge as the Ambassador of which country to India? Answer: United States of America (USA) (He formally presented his credentials in New Delhi on January 12, 2026.)What is the name of the nationwide campaign launched by GAIL and PNGRB to promote the adoption of Natural Gas? Answer: #NonStopZindagi (The campaign runs from January to March 2026 to increase the share of natural gas in India's energy basket.)Which Indian stock exchange was recently honored with the "Asia Best Employer Brand Award 2026" in Hong Kong? Answer: BSE Limited (Bombay Stock Exchange) (The award recognizes excellence in workplace culture and employee engagement.)Which state cabinet recently approved the "Dagadarthi Greenfield Airport" project in the Nellore district? Answer: Andhra Pradesh (This will be the 8th airport in the state, strategically located near major ports and industrial clusters.)Who won the "AI Film Award" for the film 'Lily' at the 1 Billion Followers Summit supported by Google Gemini? Answer: Zoubeir Jlassi (The award recognizes creators using AI for social good.)Which central organization launched the 'BHARATI Startup Challenge' to promote innovation in the agricultural export sector? Answer: APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) (The challenge aims to foster agritech startups for export enablement.)Article 131 of Constitution: Deals with the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court for disputes between the Union and one or more States.Pax Silica: A U.S.-led initiative for strategic cooperation on semiconductors, critical minerals, and AI.9. Do You Know?Non-Fossil Power: India's non-fossil fuel capacity reached a record 266.78 GW in 2025, a massive 22.6% jump in just one year.Cybersecurity Move: The Indian government is mulling a new rule requiring smartphone makers to share source code to enhance national security.Lighthouse Tourism: India recently inaugurated its first Lighthouse Museum in Visakhapatnam to promote maritime heritage tourism.Fastest Delivery: The new Speed Post 24 service is the first time the Indian postal department has guaranteed delivery of documents within exactly one day.Road Safety Statistic: Chief Minister Revanth Reddy highlighted that more people are dying in road accidents globally than in wars, urging citizens to treat traffic violations with the same seriousness as major crimes.10. Job & Educational TopicsHotel Management Entrance: The NCHM JEE score remains the standard for admission into Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) branches across India, including Hyderabad and Tirupati.SV University Interviews: Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, is conducting walk-in interviews for various manpower positions under RUSA Phase-II.NEET UG 2026: The NTA released the detailed syllabus for NEET UG 2026.T-SAT Coaching: Special digital coaching for EAPCET (EAMCET) candidates began on T-SAT.Recruitment: RFCL invited applications for 36 managerial posts , and Prasar Bharati announced 14 Marketing Executive positions.11. Day Special: National Road Safety Week (Jan 11-17)Theme 2026: "Sadak Suraksha Jeevan Raksha (Road Safety, Life Safety)."Significance: 2026 marks the 37th year of this campaign to promote responsible driving and reduce road accidents.Arrive Alive Campaign: Launched in Hyderabad to raise awareness about the dangers of traffic violations.Road Signage: New initiatives include mandating QR codes on road signage in Delhi for better transparency.
1. International NewsIran Unrest Escalates: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian labeled protesters as "rioters," warning that they would not be allowed to disrupt society as the death toll in the current unrest reportedly surpassed 500.U.S. Strikes in Syria: The U.S. launched missile strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria following the deaths of two U.S. soldiers in December.Myanmar General Elections: Myanmar held the second phase of its junta-controlled general election, despite warnings from democracy watchdogs that it will prolong military rule.Nobel Institute on Venezuela: The Nobel Institute clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be revoked or shared, responding to a suggestion from Venezuelan leader Maria Corina Machado to share her prize with Donald Trump.2. National Current AffairsSmartphone Security Measures: The Centre is considering mandatory source code disclosure for smartphone makers to analyze vulnerabilities and malware, a move being opposed by tech giants like Apple and Samsung.Viksit Bharat (VB-GRAM G) Act 2025: The government is highlighting the "Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission" aimed at rural employment and water security through reservoir construction.PM at Somnath: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attending the "Somnath Swabhiman Parv," warned that forces opposed to India's identity are still active and called for national vigilance.Aadhaar-Linked Rail Booking: IRCTC has extended the booking slot for Aadhaar-authenticated users, allowing them to book general reserved tickets until midnight on the opening day of the reservation period.3. Science & TechnologyPSLV-C62 Countdown: ISRO has begun the final checks for the launch of PSLV-D L-C62 from Sriharikota, carrying the DRDO-designed 'Anvesha' earth observation satellite.Private Space Start-ups: Multiple Hyderabad-based start-ups like Dhruv Space and EON Space Labs are contributing key payloads to the upcoming PSLV mission.X (formerly Twitter) Compliance: The social media platform X has accepted its mistake regarding Grok AI-generated obscene content and assured the government it will comply with Indian laws.Himalayan Snow Anomaly: For the first time in nearly four decades, high-altitude peaks like Tungnath in the Garhwal Himalayas remained snow-free through January, threatening alpine ecosystems.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Andhra Pradesh Groundwater: The Central Ground Water Board reported widespread contamination in AP, with 26.87% of samples showing residual sodium carbonate beyond permissible limits.Telangana Thalassemia Goal: Health Minister C. Damodar Raja Narasimha announced a vision to make Telangana the first thalassemia-free state in India by 2035.SLBC Tunnel Project: The Telangana government has decided to resume long-pending Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel works using advanced tunnelling methodologies.Jana Sena in Civic Polls: The Jana Sena Party, led by Pawan Kalyan, has announced its intention to contest upcoming urban local body elections in Telangana, including the GHMC.5. District & Local NewsCyber Fraud Bust in Khammam: Police in Khammam busted a major inter-state cyber fraud network involving transactions worth ₹547 crore, arresting 18 individuals.Investment Fraud in Hyderabad: The wife of a former IPS officer was allegedly swindled of ₹2.58 crore in a sophisticated online investment scam.Banned Manja Crackdown: Hyderabad police seized 345 bobbins of banned Chinese manja valued at ₹16.9 lakh and are counseling families against its use for Sankranti.High Court Bench in Kurnool: Andhra Pradesh Minister T.G. Bharath affirmed the government's commitment to establishing a High Court Bench in Kurnool.6. Sports and GamesKohli's Milestone: Virat Kohli became the second-highest run-getter in international matches, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara’s tally of 28,016 runs, during his match-winning 93 against New Zealand.Senior National Volleyball: Kerala's women’s team retained their title, while the Indian Railways men’s team secured the championship in Varanasi.WPL 2026: Mumbai Indians defeated Delhi Capitals by 50 runs, powered by unbeaten half-centuries from Harmanpreet Kaur and Nat Sciver-Brunt.Formula E Podium: Mahindra Racing secured its first podium of the season in Mexico City, with Edoardo Mortara finishing second.7. Cinema & EntertainmentTicket Price Controversy: Former Telangana Cinematography Minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav criticized the government for allowing ticket price hikes for the movie Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu without proper cabinet knowledge.Political Film Trends: Actor Vijay’s film Jana Nayagan is being noted for its strategic launch ahead of assembly elections, with his character initials mirroring his political party, TVK.ISPL Season 3: The Indian Street Premier League kicked off in Surat, featuring a mix of cinema stars and cricket legends to celebrate street talent.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)On which date is National Youth Day (Rashtriya Yuva Diwas) observed annually in India? Answer: 12 January (It is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. In 2026, the theme is "Ignite the Self, Impact the World.")German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in which Indian city on 12 January 2026 for his first official bilateral visit? Answer: Ahmedabad (He was received by PM Modi and scheduled to visit Sabarmati Ashram and the International Kite Festival.)Which state government recently renamed its first butterfly sanctuary as the "Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary"? Answer: Kerala (The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary was officially renamed to reflect its status as the state's first butterfly sanctuary.)Who recently assumed charge as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court on 10 January 2026? Answer: Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta (He succeeded the outgoing Chief Justice and was previously a judge at the Allahabad High Court.)The Indian Army recently conducted a joint Military-Civil Fusion exercise named what in Maharashtra? Answer: Exercise “Sanjha Shakti” (The exercise was held at the Dighi Hills Range to enhance coordination between military and civil authorities.)Which Union Minister announced the launch of "Speed Post 24" and "Speed Post 48" premium postal services? Answer: Jyotiraditya Scindia (These services are aimed at ensuring time-bound delivery within 24 and 48 hours respectively.)India and which European country recently completed 25 years of their Strategic Partnership? Answer: Germany (The milestone was a key highlight of the bilateral talks held during the Chancellor's visit in January 2026.)Which city hosted the fifth edition of the Tri-Services Veterans Day parade on Marine Drive? Answer: Mumbai (The event was held to honor the service and sacrifice of military veterans.)Which Indian state will host the "Regional AI Impact Conference 2026" in collaboration with IndiaAI? Answer: Uttar Pradesh (The conference aims to explore the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence in governance and industry.)What is the name of the autonomous body launched to engage Indian youth in nation-building, as highlighted on National Youth Day? Answer: MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) (It serves as a single-window platform for youth to access leadership and volunteering opportunities.)Vande Bharat Sleeper: The new sleeper trains have varying fares, starting from ₹960 for 3AC up to ₹13,300 for 1AC over long distances.World Hindi Day: Celebrated on January 10, emphasizing the role of the language in connecting global communities.Uranium Hotspots: Specific villages in Annamayya, Kurnool, Sri Sathya Sai, and Tirupati districts have been identified as having elevated uranium levels.9. Do You Know?Vivekananda's Quote: The famous phrase "Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached" was actually a call to action inspired by the Katha Upanishad.Aviation First: Akasa Air is the youngest Indian airline to join the IATA, achieving the feat in record time since its launch.Green Milestone: India’s Bio-bitumen production (from agricultural waste) is expected to reduce carbon emissions by over 30% in road construction projects.Supercomputer Speed: The new Param Shakti at IIT Madras can perform over 3 quadrillion calculations per second.Context Window in AI: In Large Language Models, the "context window" acts as the AI's short-term memory, determining how much information it can process at once.Chinese Manja Legalities: Using or selling Chinese manja is a violation of the Environment (Protection) Act, carrying a penalty of up to five years in prison or a ₹1 lakh fine.10. Job & Educational TopicsNHAI Recruitment: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is inviting applications for Deputy Manager (Technical) posts for Civil Engineering graduates.NEET UG 2026 Syllabus: The NTA has released the official syllabus for NEET UG 2026, which largely follows the rationalized NCERT curriculum.PhD Admissions: Sri Ramachandra Institute is inviting applications for various PhD programs for its April 2026 session.11. Day Special: 29th National Youth DayTheme 2026: "Ignite the Self, Impact the World."Significance: Celebrated annually on January 12 to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda (his 163rd in 2026).Background: Declared by the Indian Government in 1984; first celebrated in 1985 to inspire youth with the ideologies of Swamiji.Current Initiatives:PARTH Yojana: A program focused on preparing youth for recruitment in security services.SheSTEM 2024: An initiative empowering women and youth in innovation.Youth Icons: Ayushmann Khurrana and Neeraj Chopra were recently honored by FICCI as Youth Icons of India.
1. International NewsMass Protests in Iran: Major Iranian cities were gripped by mass rallies denouncing the Islamic Republic. The son of the ousted Shah has urged protesters to seize city centers. Reports indicate the death toll in recent unrest has reached 72 as supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blames the United States for the instability.Trump’s Investment Push in Venezuela: U.S. President Donald Trump has called on major oil companies to invest at least $100 billion in Venezuela. However, industry giants remain hesitant due to the volatile political and economic climate in the region.UN on World Hindi Day: Marking World Hindi Day (January 10), the United Nations highlighted how the Hindi language connects communities and brings people together across borders.2. National Current AffairsSupreme Court on Preventive Detention: The Supreme Court of India ruled that "preventive detention" should not be used merely because there is a fear that a person might commit a crime again. The court emphasized that such detention is a serious matter affecting personal liberty.PM’s Visit to Somnath: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 'Somnath Swabhimaan Parv' in Gujarat. He performed special prayers and addressed the importance of cultural heritage.Viksit Bharat (VB-GRAM G) Act 2025: The government is highlighting the "Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission" to boost rural employment and livelihood.Security Breach Thwarted in J&K: Security forces in Samba district recovered an arms and ammunition consignment (pistols, grenades, and magazines) dropped by a Pakistani drone near the International Border.3. Science & TechnologyISRO’s First Mission of 2026: ISRO is set to launch the PSLV-C62 mission from Sriharikota on January 12. It will carry the EOS-N1 satellite along with 15 other smaller satellites into orbit.Adulteration Alert: The Telangana Drugs Control Administration (DCA) issued a public alert against 'Almont-Kid Syrup' after it was found to be contaminated with ethylene glycol, a toxic substance.AI in Education: Coaching hubs like Kota are integrating AI-based "Miracle Machines" to personalize training for NEET and JEE aspirants.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Andhra Pradesh (Investment News): The AP government has cleared "tailor-made" incentives for Websol Renewables Pvt Ltd to set up a Giga-watt scale solar cell and module manufacturing unit in the Naidupeta MPSEZ (Tirupati District).Telangana (Healthcare): Chief Minister Revanth Reddy addressed the 'Cardiological Society of India' conference, urging doctors to focus on preventive heart care.Power Sector Reforms: Telangana is preparing to launch a third DISCOM (Distribution Company) by April to better manage electricity subsidies and supply.5. District & Local NewsWarangal: Police filed an FIR against the poisoning of nearly 300 stray dogs in Hanamkonda district, leading to an outcry from animal rights activists.Konaseema: Firefighters and ONGC officials successfully extinguished a massive gas well fire at Irusumanda.Sankranti Rush: Massive traffic jams were reported on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway as thousands headed to their hometowns for the festival.6. Sports and GamesSenior National Boxing: Services (SSCB) topped the medal tally with 12 golds. Nikhat Zareen, Lovlina Borgohain, and Jadumani Singh won gold medals in their respective categories.Women's Premier League (WPL): Mumbai Indians defeated Delhi Capitals by 50 runs at the DY Patil Stadium. Harmanpreet Kaur (74*) and Nat Sciver-Brunt (70) were the stars of the match.FA Cup Shock: Sixth-tier Macclesfield produced one of the biggest upsets in history by defeating Premier League side Crystal Palace 2-1.7. Cinema & EntertainmentTicket Price Hike: The Telangana government has allowed a price hike for the movie 'Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu' (starring Chiranjeevi) for the first 10 days of its release. 20% of the extra revenue is mandated to go to the Telugu Film Industry Employees Federation.Vijay’s Final Film: The Tamil film Jana Nayagan, starring actor Vijay, is facing delays at the Censor Board, sparking political debates in Tamil Nadu.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Where did Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurate the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference on 11 January 2026? Answer: Rajkot (Gujarat) (The conference specifically focused on the Saurashtra and Kutch regions.)Which country has become the first in the world to start commercial production of 'Bio-bitumen'? Answer: India (Bio-bitumen is a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based bitumen used in road construction.)Who has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court? Answer: Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta (He succeeded Justice Guhanathan Narendra, who retired on January 9, 2026.)Which institution recently launched the 'PARAM SHAKTI' supercomputing facility with 3.1 petaflops capacity? Answer: IIT Madras (The system was developed indigenously by C-DAC under the National Supercomputing Mission.)The United Nations has officially declared the year 2026 as the International Year of what? Answer: Rangelands and Pastoralists (This initiative aims to raise awareness about sustainable land management and the lives of pastoralists.)Which city is the venue for the National Textiles Ministers’ Conference 2026? Answer: Guwahati (Assam) (The conference was organized to boost India's textile sector and showcase regional heritage.)According to recent data, which state's police force topped the ICJS 2.0 (Inter-operable Criminal Justice System) rankings? Answer: Uttarakhand (Uttarakhand was recognized for its excellence in digital data integration across the justice system.)Where was India's first fully "Paperless District Court" recently inaugurated? Answer: Kalpetta (Wayanad district), Kerala (This is a major milestone in the digitalization of the Indian judiciary.)Which organization released the 'First Advance Estimates' of India’s GDP for the financial year 2025-26? Answer: NSO (National Statistical Office) (The NSO operates under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.)What is the name of the new AI-based data management system launched by Amit Shah for the National Security Guard (NSG)? Answer: NIDMS (National IED Data Management System) (It acts as a centralized platform for tracking and analyzing IED-related incidents across India.)Somnath Temple: Located in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, it is the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva.PSLV: Known as the 'Workhorse of ISRO', the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle is a third-generation launch vehicle.9. Do You Know?Rice Record: In 2025, India’s rice exports surged by 19.4%, making it the "food security provider" for the Global South.Space Update: ISRO is preparing to launch the PSLV C62 mission on January 12, 2026.Solar Milestone: India’s installed solar power capacity has officially crossed 82 GW as of January 2026.Butterfly Sanctuary: The Kerala government has renamed Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, the state's first of its kind.Human Trafficking Fact: The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) was the first comprehensive federal law in the US to address health and safety regarding human trafficking.10. Job & Educational TopicsT-SAT Classes: T-SAT will telecast special digital coaching classes for EAPCET (formerly EAMCET) candidates starting from January 12 to help rural students.11. Day Special: National Human Trafficking Awareness DayObserved on: January 11 (Every year in the US, with global participation).History: Established in 2000 via the TVPA; first observed in 2007.Current News Context: * NCW: The National Commission for Women (India) has launched an Anti-Human Trafficking Cell.Operation AAHT: Launched by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to rescue victims from trains.Swayangsiddha: A West Bengal government scheme specifically designed to combat trafficking and child marriage.Note: Do not confuse this with the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, which is observed on July 30.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsIran Protests Escalation: The Iranian government has issued a stern warning to anti-government protesters, stating that a "strict crackdown" will follow if the unrest continues. The protests, which began over economic issues, have spread across several cities.India-U.S. Trade Pact Denial: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that remarks by U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick - claiming a trade deal stalled because PM Modi failed to call Donald Trump - are "not accurate." MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that both leaders spoke eight times in 2025 and India remains committed to a mutually beneficial trade deal.NHL Winter Classic History: The concept of the "Winter Classic," an annual outdoor ice hockey game played around New Year's Day, was first pitched in 2004 and officially born in 2008, becoming a major television hit in the United States.2. National Current AffairsHimachal Bus Tragedy: At least 14 people were killed and several others injured when a bus lost control and fell into a deep gorge in Himachal Pradesh. Local authorities have launched a massive rescue operation.Mamata Banerjee’s Protest in Kolkata: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee hit the streets to protest against ED raids on the I-PAC office and its founder’s home. She accused the central government of using agencies to "steal her party's strategy" and called them "political tools of the BJP."Ground Zero — Voter Roll Deletions: Reports from West Bengal indicate high numbers of voter name deletions during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), raising concerns about disenfranchisement and the high administrative costs of the exercise.3. Science & TechnologyC-Mitra Launch: The Hyderabad City Police launched "C-Mitra," a virtual help desk designed to assist cybercrime victims. The platform allows citizens to register First Information Reports (FIRs) online without physically visiting a police station.BioAsia 2026: The 23rd edition of Asia’s premier life sciences forum, BioAsia, is set to be held in Hyderabad from February 17, 2026. The theme for this year is "TechBio unleashed: AI, automation and the biology revolution."4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Inter-State Water Diplomacy: Telangana CM Revanth Reddy appealed for political consensus on water issues, stating that Telangana is "focusing on solutions, not disputes." Meanwhile, A.P. CM N. Chandrababu Naidu stated he is not ready for disputes over Godavari water, preferring judicious usage through river interlinking projects like Polavaram.Employee Insurance in Telangana: Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka announced a massive ₹1.02 crore accident insurance cover for every government employee in Telangana.Pollution Action: The Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) confirmed that pollution in Nalla Cheruvu lake (Sangareddy) was caused by Hetero Drugs. The board has warned the company of penal action following a spike in Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) levels.Tourism Destinations: Telangana has identified Somasila, Nagarjunasagar, and Baswapur to be developed as international wedding destinations, leveraging their scenic natural landscapes.5. District & Local NewsSankranti Rush in Hyderabad: City roads and terminals witnessed heavy traffic jams as people headed home for the festival. To manage the rush, South Central Railway (SCR) lifted parking curbs at the Bhoiguda entrance of Secunderabad station and announced 16 extra halts.Jagtial Manja Incident: A 4-year-old boy in Metpally town suffered a severe neck injury after getting entangled in glass-coated manja thread while playing.Sabarimala Investigation: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested Sabarimala chief priest Rajeevaru in connection with a gold misappropriation case.TTD Darshan Count: TTD reported that approximately 7.83 lakh devotees visited the Tirumala temple for 'Vaikuntha Dwara Darshan' between December 30 and January 8.6. Sports and GamesWPL 2026 Thriller: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a dramatic victory against Mumbai Indians in the Women's Premier League. Nadine de Klerk played a pivotal role in swinging the match in RCB's favor.Australian Open Trivia: Historical data shows that players like Naomi Osaka and Aryna Sabalenka have been dominant in the recent editions of the Australian Open, with both having won the title twice (Osaka in 2019, 2021; Sabalenka in 2023, 2024).7. Cinema & EntertainmentInorbit Nightout: A major weekend event (Jan 9-11) is being held in Hyderabad, featuring flat 50% discounts and midnight shopping, attracting large crowds before the Sankranti holidays.8. General Knowledge PointsOn which date is World Hindi Day (Vishwa Hindi Diwas) observed annually? Answer: 10 January (It is celebrated to promote the Hindi language worldwide; the first World Hindi Conference was held on this day in 1975.)Which Indian city has been ranked as the "Best Indian City for Women" in the latest 2025-26 rankings? Answer: Bengaluru (The city topped the list based on safety, employment opportunities, and social indicators.)Which organization recently launched the official Aadhaar mascot named 'Udai'? Answer: UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India (The mascot was unveiled to make Aadhaar services more people-friendly and accessible.)Which state has become the first in India to launch a dedicated "Deeptech Startup Policy"? Answer: Tamil Nadu (The policy aims to support 100 high-risk, research-driven startups over the next five years.)The Kamala Hydroelectric Project (1,720 MW), which was recently approved, is located in which state? Answer: Arunachal Pradesh (The project is planned on the Kamala River, a major tributary of the Subansiri River.)Akasa Air recently became the 5th Indian airline to join which international aviation body? Answer: IATA (International Air Transport Association) (It joins Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, and SpiceJet as a member.)The 'Weimar Triangle' is a regional political grouping of which three countries that India recently engaged with? Answer: France, Germany, and Poland (India recently held its first-ever ministerial engagement with this European group.)Which district is set to become India’s first "Bio-Happy District"? Answer: Keyi Panyor (Arunachal Pradesh) (The initiative focuses on sustainable development and the well-being of the local ecology.)The "PANKHUDI" digital portal, recently launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, is dedicated to what? Answer: CSR and Partnership facilitation (It aims to streamline Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives for women and children.)In which city will the Election Commission of India host the "India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM)-2026"? Answer: New Delhi (The conference will focus on inclusive and resilient election management practices.)Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): A measure of the oxygen needed to chemically oxidize organic pollutants in water. High COD indicates poor water health.9. Do You Know?Ancient Discovery: 2,000-year-old Kushan-era coins were recently found in the Taxila region.The Mpemba Mystery: Scientists recently proved that hot water can actually freeze faster than cold water.Digital Village: India's first "Digital Nomad Village" is now operational in the mountains of Sikkim.Rail Milestone: Indian Railways is now 99.2% electrified, the largest such network in the world.Bio-Happy: Keyi Panyor (Arunachal) is India's first district where projects are tested for "Happiness Impact."10. Job & Educational TopicsSVKM School Admissions: SVKM School, Jadcherla (affiliated with CBSE) has opened admissions for the 2026-27 academic year for Pre-Primary to Grade XI, focusing on IIT-JEE and NEET foundations.AYUSH Hospital in Karimnagar: The Central government sanctioned ₹15 crore for a new 50-bed Integrated AYUSH Hospital in Karimnagar, offering services in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.11. Day Special: World Hindi DaySignificance: This day marks the anniversary of the first World Hindi Conference held in 1975 in Nagpur. It was inaugurated by then-PM Indira Gandhi, with Mauritius PM Seewoosagur Ramgoolam as the Chief Guest.Objective: To promote Hindi as an international language. In 2006, then-PM Dr. Manmohan Singh officially declared January 10 as World Hindi Day.Global Spread: Hindi is spoken in India, Mauritius, Nepal, Guyana, Trinidad, and other countries.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsU.S. Oil Tariffs on India & China: U.S. President Donald Trump has "greenlit" legislation that would empower him to impose up to 500% tariffs on countries that continue to buy oil or uranium from Russia. This bill, which has broad bipartisan support in the Senate, aims to incentivize countries like India, China, and Brazil to stop providing financial support to Russia.Venezuela Oil Control: The U.S. Department of Energy announced plans to control Venezuela's oil sales "indefinitely" following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro.U.S. Climate Treaty Withdrawal: President Trump has officially withdrawn the United States from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), a move that has been strongly condemned by the European Union.Bangladesh Visa Suspension: Bangladesh's interim government has suspended visa services in India, including its mission in New Delhi, citing security concerns.2. National Current AffairsCensus 2027 Schedule: The first phase of Census 2027, involving house-listing operations, is officially set to begin on April 1, 2026, and will conclude by September 30, 2026.India's Economic Growth: The United Nations (UN DESA) has projected India's growth at 7.2% for the 2025-26 fiscal year, slightly lower than the government's estimate of 7.4%.Curbs on Chinese Firms: The Finance Ministry is likely to scrap five-year-old restrictions on Chinese firms bidding for Indian government contracts to ease project delays and shortages.New Road Accident Victim Scheme: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to launch a nationwide cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims, providing coverage of up to ₹1.5 lakh.3. Science & TechnologyDhruva Space PA-1 Mission: Hyderabad-based startup Dhruva Space is preparing for the 'Polar Access' (PA-1) mission via ISRO’s PSLV-C62 on January 12. This mission will launch 10 space missions, including Nepal’s first satellite mission.Quantum Institute in A.P.: SRM University-A.P. has announced plans to launch a Quantum Institute to focus on quantum science and technology in collaboration with the state government.iDeaNA Incubator: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh will inaugurate the iDeaNA BRIC-CDFD Technology Incubator in Hyderabad to nurture deep-tech startups in life sciences.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Logistics Infra Corporation: The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has approved the establishment of the AP Logistics Infrastructure Corporation to develop key infrastructure projects across the state.MGNREGA Agitation: Telangana CM Revanth Reddy announced a state-wide agitation against proposed Central changes to the MGNREGA scheme, with massive public meetings planned starting February 3.Amaravati Avakaya Festival: The three-day festival was inaugurated in Vijayawada. EU Ambassador Herve Delphin praised A.P.'s economic dynamism.Special Representative for North America: The A.P. government has appointed Komati Jayaram as the state's special representative in North America for a two-year term.5. District & Local NewsAir Taxi Success in Guntur: An air taxi designed by Guntur-based Magnumwings has successfully cleared its structural frame testing.Roosterfight Arenas: Despite a ban, makeshift arenas for roosterfights (Kodi Pandelu) are being set up across Krishna and Godavari districts for the Sankranti festival.Mori-5 Well Blowout: The ONGC gas well blowout in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district remains uncontrolled for the fourth day, though fire intensity fluctuates.6. Sports and GamesWPL 2026 Opener: The Women's Premier League 2026 begins today (January 9) with a clash between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Navi Mumbai.The Ashes: Australia won the fifth Test, clinching the series 4-1 against England.Hockey India League: Vedanta Kalinga Lancers defeated Shrachi Bengal Tigers 2-1 in a closely contested match in Chennai.7. Cinema & EntertainmentTelugu Cinema Outlook: The industry looks toward 2026 for a regain in momentum with highly anticipated films like The Raja Saab and Spirit starring Prabhas.Hyderabad Literary Festival (HLF) 2026: The 16th edition of HLF is scheduled for January 24-26, featuring Nobel laureates Abhijit Banerjee and Kailash Satyarthi.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)On which date is 'Pravasi Bharatiya Divas' (Non-Resident Indian Day) observed annually in India? Answer: 9 January (It marks the day Mahatma Gandhi returned from South Africa to India in 1915.)Who was recently appointed as the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) in January 2026? Answer: A.K. Balasubrahmanian (The distinguished scientist succeeded Dr. D.K. Shukla for a three-year tenure.)Which major cricket tournament is scheduled to kick off today, 9 January 2026, across two venues in India? Answer: Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 (The tournament will be hosted at Vadodara and Navi Mumbai.)Who was sworn in as the 47th Chief Justice of the Patna High Court in January 2026? Answer: Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo (He was previously a Judge of the Odisha High Court and succeeded Justice Sudhir Singh.)The Sports Authority of India (SAI) recently launched a four-day Sports Sciences Workshop for combat sports in which city? Answer: New Delhi (The workshop focuses on disciplines like Boxing, Wrestling, and Judo to improve coaching methods.)Which medicinal plant from Rajasthan recently received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag? Answer: Nagauri Ashwagandha (Grown in the Nagaur district, it is recognized for its unique regional identity and medicinal quality.)In which state is the 'Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary' located, where the 2026 Tiger Estimation (AITE-26) has recently begun? Answer: Tamil Nadu (The sanctuary is located in the Erode district and is a vital corridor for tiger movement.)According to the National Statistical Office (NSO), what is India’s estimated Real GDP growth rate for FY 2025-26? Answer: 7.4% (The growth is estimated at Rs 201.90 lakh crore at constant prices.)Which bank appointed Hardeep Singh Ahluwalia as its interim MD & CEO effective from 1 January 2026? Answer: Canara Bank (He took charge following the retirement of K. Satyanarayana Raju.)Where has the Indian Navy initiated the establishment of a new naval base (detachment) in January 2026 to strengthen maritime surveillance? Answer: Haldia, West Bengal (The base aims to enhance rapid response capabilities in the Bay of Bengal region.)Antarctic Base: India is planning to build its new Antarctic station, Maitri II.Antimicrobial Resistance: A study revealed that 6 lakh out of 7.3 lakh hospitalizations in India were linked to fluoroquinolone-resistant bacteria.9. Do You Know?Honey never spoils: Archaeologists have found pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old and still edible.Electrical Speed: Electricity travels at nearly the speed of light, which is about 300,000 kilometers per second.India's First Satellite: India's first satellite, Aryabhata, was launched in 1975 and named after the famous Indian astronomer.The Brain's Power: Your brain generates enough electricity to power a small LED light bulb.Shortest War: The shortest war in history lasted only 38 to 45 minutes (between Britain and Zanzibar in 1896).10. Job & Educational TopicsIIT Hyderabad Placement: IITH achieved a 62.42% placement rate in Phase 1 for B.Tech students.Post-Graduate Admissions: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar School of Economics University, Bengaluru, has opened applications for several M.Sc. and M.A. programs for the 2026-27 session.SVKM School Admissions: SVKM School in Jadcherla has opened admissions for the 2026-27 academic year for Pre-Primary to Grade XI.11. Day Special: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (January 9)Significance: Celebrated to recognize the contribution of the overseas Indian community to India's development.History: Commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915.Established: The event was launched by former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003.Current Event: Amit Shah launched the Bharatiya Bhasha Anubhag to promote Indian languages in governance.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International NewsIsrael-India Relations: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with PM Narendra Modi, expressing hope for a meeting in the "near future" and briefing him on the Gaza peace plan.Venezuela-U.S. Oil Deal: U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela’s interim government will turn over 30 to 50 million barrels of "high quality, sanctioned oil" to the United States.U.S. Seizure of Russian Tanker: The United States seized a Russia-linked oil tanker, formerly the Bella-1, in the North Atlantic despite a Russian navy escort.Arctic Ambitions: The White House confirmed that President Trump has actively discussed the potential purchase of Greenland, preferring diplomacy but keeping all options on the table.2. National Current AffairsCensus 2027 Notification: The first phase of Census 2027, the house listing operations, is scheduled to take place from April 1 to September 30, 2026.GDP Growth Projections: The Union government estimates India's real GDP growth for FY26 at 7.4%, an increase from the 6.5% recorded the previous year.SC on Judicial Inquiry: The Supreme Court expressed disagreement with claims that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla overstepped his authority by constituting a committee to probe allegations against a sitting High Court judge.Pesticides Management Bill: The Agriculture Ministry released the draft Pesticides Management Bill, 2025, proposing stricter controls and higher penalties for spurious pesticides.3. Science & TechnologyISRO EOS-N1 Launch: ISRO is set to launch the PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission on January 12, 2026, from Sriharikota. The satellite is designed for strategic imaging purposes.Wind Energy Milestone: India added a record 6.34 GW of wind energy capacity in 2025, bringing the total national capacity to 54.51 GW.Gen AI Partnership: Infosys has partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to accelerate the enterprise adoption of generative artificial intelligence (AI).4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Statutory Protection for Amaravati: A.P. CM N. Chandrababu Naidu met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to seek a Parliamentary Bill providing statutory protection for Amaravati as the state capital.Medaram Shrine Renovation: Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy will inaugurate ₹300 crore worth of renovation works at the Sammakka Saralamma shrine on January 19.Polavaram Completion Goal: CM Naidu announced a target to make the Polavaram project fully operational by December 2027.Telangana Police Reshuffle: The creation of new police zones in Hyderabad, including the "Future City" commissionerate, led to a major reshuffle of senior IPS officers.5. District & Local NewsCold Wave in Agency Areas: Temperatures plummeted to 2.7°C in G. Madugula (ASR district, A.P.) and 6.3°C in Tiryani (Asifabad, Telangana).Sankranti Rush Management: TGSRTC will operate 6,431 special buses to handle the heavy Sankranti festival traffic from January 9 to 13.Mori-5 Blowout Update: ONGC officials described the gas blowout at the Mori-5 well as a "geological surprise" and have successfully reduced the fire's intensity.6. Sports and GamesThe Ashes (Sydney Test): Jacob Bethell scored a fighting half-century to rescue England's innings after Australia's Travis Head (163) and Steve Smith (138) put the hosts in a dominant position.WTT Feeder Series: Indian defensive specialist Senthil Kumar Mehan saved three match points to win a 37-minute thriller in the men's singles qualification.National Basketball: Defending champion Tamil Nadu defeated Karnataka 71-63 in the 75th senior National basketball championships.7. Cinema & EntertainmentAmaravati Avakaya Festival: The three-day cultural festival begins today in Vijayawada, featuring film screenings, music by Javed Ali, and traditional arts.Movie Ticket Price Dispute: The Telangana High Court declined to grant specific relief regarding ticket price hikes for the films Raja Saab and Mana Shankar Prasad Gaaru.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Who have been invited as the Chief Guests for India's 77th Republic Day (26 January 2026)? Answer: Ursula von der Leyen and António CostaWhich world leader is set to arrive in India on 12 January 2026 for his first Asian bilateral visit? Answer: Friedrich Merz (Chancellor of Germany)Who recently became the youngest Indian to reach the South Pole at the age of 18? Answer: Kamya KarthikeyanThe 'Galaxy Frog' species, recently reported to be on the verge of extinction, is found in which region? Answer: Western Ghats, KeralaManoj Kothari, who recently passed away, was a former World Champion in which sport? Answer: BilliardsWhich neighboring country of India has recently banned the telecast of the Indian Premier League (IPL)? Answer: BangladeshWhat is the name of the national initiative launched by industry leaders to promote large-scale employment? Answer: “100 Million Jobs”Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan released 55 rare literary works published by which institute? Answer: Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL)What is the 'Mpemba Effect,' which has been recently discussed in scientific news? Answer: The phenomenon where hot water freezes faster than cold water.In which state will the 4th edition of 'India Energy Week' be organized? Answer: GoaBuddha's Life Sites: Born in Lumbini, Enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, First sermon in Sarnath, and Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar.L1 Point: A gravitational balance point in space used by missions like Aditya-L1 for continuous solar observationEngel's Law: An economic theory stating that as income rises, the proportion of income spent on food declines.9. Do You Know?Sink vs. Drown: Only living things can "drown" (die due to water in lungs), whereas both living and non-living things can "sink" (go to the bottom).World Buddhist Flag: Designed in 1885 in Sri Lanka to symbolize international Buddhist unity.10. Job & Educational TopicsReliance Scholarships: Over 1,800 students from A.P. and Telangana were selected for Reliance Foundation scholarships for 2025-26.NTPC Recruitment: Openings for Executive Trainees in Finance (CA/CMA) with a significant pay scale.IIT Hyderabad Lung Health CoE: A new Bioengineering Centre of Excellence for lung health has been established at IITH in collaboration with Germany.11. Day Special: January 8 - World Buddhist Flag DaySignificance: Celebrated to honor the Buddhist flag as an international symbol of the faith.History: The flag was designed in 1885 by the Colombo Committee in Sri Lanka to foster solidarity among Buddhists globally.Recent Fact: India recently sent sacred relics of Lord Buddha to Thailand for a major exposition.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsVenezuela Legal Controversy: Legal experts have raised concerns that the U.S. apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife lacks justification under international law. Under the principle of "personal immunity," heads of state typically enjoy protection from the criminal jurisdiction of foreign courts. The U.S. move is being viewed by some as an affront to international law and a return to outdated imperialist doctrines.Iran Protests Death Toll: At least 35 people have been killed in violence linked to ongoing economic protests across Iran, including 20 protesters, four children, and security personnel.Indonesia Flash Floods: Torrential rains triggered a flash flood on Siau Island, Indonesia, killing at least 16 people and displacing nearly 700 residents.2. National Current AffairsVoter Roll Revisions: The Election Commission of India (EC) defended its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the Supreme Court, stating it has a constitutional duty to ensure no foreigners occupy space in the nation's rolls. In Uttar Pradesh alone, 2.89 crore names were deleted in the draft electoral rolls.Suresh Kalmadi Passes Away: Former Union Minister Suresh Kalmadi, known for a tumultuous career including the 2010 Commonwealth Games controversy, has died.India-U.S. Oil Tariffs: U.S. President Donald Trump remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "not that happy" with him due to 50% tariffs imposed on India for its purchases of Russian oil.Air Pollution "Contributors": The Supreme Court observed that the victims of poor air quality in Delhi are themselves, directly or indirectly, "contributors" to the problem.3. Science & TechnologyAditya-L1 Anniversary: On the second anniversary of India's maiden solar mission reaching the Lagrangian point (L1), ISRO has invited proposals from scientists to analyze data collected from the spacecraft.Supersonic Gas Jets in Lab: Researchers have developed a method using a "de Laval nozzle" to shoot focused jets of gas at supersonic speeds, allowing for the study of surface chemistry at realistic atmospheric pressures in standard lab settings.Biomaterials Frontiers: Biomaterials derived from biological sources are emerging as a new frontier to replace fossil-based plastics and textiles, helping India reduce import dependence and support farmer livelihoods.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Andhra Pradesh Investment: The State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB) cleared investment proposals worth ₹19,391 crore from 14 companies, with a potential to create over 11,700 jobs.Telangana EV Policy: The Telangana government has decided to make it mandatory for schools and large organizations to ensure that 25% to 50% of their transport fleet consists of electric vehicles.HILT Policy in Telangana: The Hyderabad Industrial Land Transformation (HILT) policy aims to generate ₹10,776 crore and transform industrial lands for multi-purpose use to ensure a cleaner environment.Polavaram Review: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu visited the Polavaram irrigation project to personally review the progress of key components like the diaphragm wall.5. District & Local NewsONGC Gas Leak Contained: The blowout at an ONGC gas well in Mori, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, has been 90% contained. Evacuated residents are expected to return home by Wednesday.Amaravati Avakaya Festival: A three-day festival showcasing Telugu cinema, literature, and the iconic avakaya pickle begins in Vijayawada on January 8.Secunderabad Station Advisory: SCR has advised passengers to use the Bhoiguda entrance (Platform 10) to manage the heavy Sankranti rush.6. Sports and GamesThe Ashes: Centuries by Travis Head (163) and Steve Smith (129*) have put Australia in a commanding position in the Sydney Test against England.Tata Steel Chess India: The rapid and blitz tournament begins in Kolkata, featuring legend Viswanathan Anand alongside young stars like Praggnanandhaa and Arjun Erigaisi.Andhra Premier League (APL): Four cricket stadiums in Vizag, Mulapadu, Mangalagiri, and Kadapa are being upgraded to host APL matches.7. Cinema & EntertainmentLFL Trivia: The Hindu Lit For Life (LFL) festival returns to Chennai on January 17-18, featuring Nobel and Booker Prize-winning authors and sessions on constitutional importance.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Which country has officially surpassed China to become the world's largest rice producer in 2025-26? Answer: India (India produced 150.18 million tonnes, overtaking China's output.)Which Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS), the first of two pollution control vessels, was recently commissioned in Goa? Answer: ICGS Samudra Pratap (It was commissioned by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 5, 2026.)Which Indian state has become the first to establish a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research Institution? Answer: Gujarat (The institution, named IAIRO, officially started operations at GIFT City on January 1, 2026.)Who has been appointed as the new head coach of the Chelsea Football Club men's team? Answer: Liam Rosenior (The appointment was officially announced in early January 2026.)Which spiritual New Year is observed on 7 January 2026? Answer: Mahayana New Year (Celebrated by Mahayana Buddhists worldwide on the first full moon of January.)According to recent data, how many broadband subscribers did India cross by the end of 2025? Answer: More than 1 Billion (India achieved a major digital milestone by crossing the 1 billion mark in late 2025.)Which Indian table tennis player won a "double crown" at the WTT Youth Contender Vadodara 2026? Answer: Syndrela Das (She won both the U-19 Mixed Doubles and U-17 Girls' Singles titles.)The "SPREE 2025" scheme, recently seen in the news, is an initiative of which organization? Answer: ESIC (Employees' State Insurance Corporation) (The scheme for registration of employers and employees was extended through January 2026.)Which city is hosting the "United Cup 2026" mixed-gender tennis tournament? Answer: Perth and Sydney (Australia) (The tournament serves as a major lead-up to the Australian Open.)Who was recently named the "International Event Ambassador" for the upcoming 2026 Mumbai Marathon? Answer: Andre De Grasse (The Olympic gold medalist sprinter will represent the event.)International Court of Justice (ICJ) Precedent: The Arrest Warrant Case (DRC vs. Belgium) established that heads of state enjoy personal immunity from the criminal jurisdiction of foreign courts.Lagrangian Point (L1): A position in space where the gravitational forces of two large bodies (like the Sun and Earth) balance the centripetal force felt by a smaller object, allowing it to stay fixed relative to them.9. Do You Know?The Meaning of "Search Me": In informal contexts, the phrase "search me" is used to mean "I have no idea" or "I don't know"."Gen Z Stare": A term used to describe the expressionless stare given by tech-dependent individuals when asked a verbal question.10. Job & Educational TopicsNTPC Recruitment: NTPC is inviting applications for Executive Trainees in Finance (CA/CMA) with a pay scale of ₹40,000–₹1,40,000.SBI Specialist Officers: State Bank of India has announced openings for Specialist Cadre Officers (VP and AVP Wealth Management) on a contract basis.Skilling Gap: Despite massive investments, only 4.1% of India's workforce has received formal vocational training, compared to much higher rates in OECD countries.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International NewsVenezuela Crisis Developments: Following his capture by U.S. forces, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro pleaded not guilty to narco-terrorism charges in a New York court, claiming he was "kidnapped". Meanwhile, the Cuban government confirmed that 32 of its officers were killed during the U.S. military operation in Venezuela.China-Pakistan Ties: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation, particularly in light of growing signs of reapprochement between Islamabad and Washington.Iran Protest Warning: Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, warned that "rioters" would face no leniency, following more than a week of political and economic demonstrations in the country.Yemen Conflict: Saudi-backed National Shield Forces successfully retook the port city of Mukalla in Hadramout province from southern separatists after several days of airstrikes.2. National Current AffairsIndia-U.S. Oil Dispute: U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that India cut its oil imports from Russia recently to "make him happy". However, records show that while imports dipped between June and October, they rose to a seven-month high in November 2025.ICGS Samudra Pratap Commissioned: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned India’s first indigenously designed Pollution Control Vessel (PCV), ICGS Samudra Pratap, in Goa to enhance maritime safety and environmental protection.EPFO Wage Ceiling Petition: The Supreme Court permitted a petitioner to approach the Central government regarding the revision of the ₹15,000 monthly wage ceiling for the Employees' Provident Fund Scheme (EPFO), which has not been adjusted in over a decade.New Visa for Chinese Nationals: India has introduced the "e-B-4 Visa," an e-production investment business visa specifically for Chinese businessmen to facilitate activities like equipment installation.3. Science & TechnologySHANTI Bill Explainers: New legislative details on the SHANTI Bill reveal fixed liability caps for nuclear plant operators: ₹3,000 crore for large plants and ₹1,500 crore for medium plants, while removing supplier accountability entirely.Space-Based Resource Mapping: Advancements in remote-sensing technology are being used to map land, water, and minerals from space by detecting spectral signatures that reveal the health of natural resources.Aviation Safety Analysis: Aviation experts raised concerns over the delay in the full report of the June 2025 Air India crash in Ahmedabad, noting that friction between Indian and U.S. (NTSB) investigators has hindered the process.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)World Telugu Mahasabhalu Concludes: A.P. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu made a strong pitch for Telugu unity and river interlinking at the concluding day of the third World Telugu Mahasabhalu in Guntur. He also announced a new Telugu University at Rajamahendravaram.Telangana Medical Council Dispute: Doctors' associations across Telangana are protesting G.O. Ms. No. 229, which they claim allows "backdoor entry" for non-doctors and IAS officers into the Telangana Medical Council (TGMC).Siddipet Political Shift: Following her exit from the BRS, MLC K. Kavitha has reportedly set her sights on the Siddipet constituency, a traditional stronghold of T. Harish Rao.A.P. Power Relief: The A.P. government took a historic step by bearing electricity dues worth ₹4,498 crore and reducing tariffs by 13 paise per unit via the true-down mechanism.5. District & Local NewsONGC Gas Well Blowout: A major blowout occurred at an ONGC gas well (Mori-5) in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, resulting in a 25-meter tall jet of fire and the evacuation of residents within a 1km radius.Gachibowli LIG Housing: The Telangana Housing Board conducted a lottery for 111 Low-Income Group (LIG) flats in Gachibowli, having received 2,685 applications.Chinese Manja Ban: Hyderabad officials have directed strict measures to curb the sale of Chinese manja ahead of the Sankranti festival to protect birds and human lives.6. Sports and GamesIPL Telecast Ban in Bangladesh: Bangladesh has banned the telecast of the upcoming IPL season, citing "hurt public sentiments" after pacer Mustafizur Rahman was dropped by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).Ashes Update: England was bowled out for 384 in the first innings of the final Test at the SCG, with Joe Root scoring 160. Australia replied strongly, ending the day at 166/2, led by Travis Head's unbeaten 91.World Champion Passes Away: Former World Billiards champion and national coach Manoj Kothari passed away at age 67 following a cardiac arrest.7. Cinema & EntertainmentSiddhartha Academy Golden Jubilee: A.P. CM N. Chandrababu Naidu will participate in the golden jubilee celebrations of Siddhartha Academy in Vijayawada on January 7.Mahila Utsavalu: The women’s organization 'Taruni Tarangalu' is set to organize its sixth 'Mahila Utsavalu' in Vijayawada featuring cultural competitions and "Manusolu Maata" talks.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)When is World Hypnotism Day observed? - 4 JanuaryOn which date is World Braille Day observed? - 4 JanuaryWhich state constituted India’s first 8th State Pay Commission? - AssamThe Indian Army declared 2026 as the year of which initiative? - Year of Networking & Data-CentricityWho won the Men’s title of the World Blitz Championship 2025? - Magnus CarlsenWho won the Women’s title of the World Blitz Championship 2025? - Bibisara AssaubayevaHow many broadband subscribers were there in India by November 2025? - More than 1 billionWhen is Global Family Day observed? - 1 JanuaryWho became the Vice Chief of the Indian Air Force on 1 January 2026? - Air Marshal Nagesh KapoorWho became AOC-in-C of the Training Command of the Indian Air Force? - Air Marshal Seethepalli Shrinivas (Tippalli Srinivas)World's Heaviest Reactors: Recently featured at the HPCL Visakh Refinery's new Residue Upgradation Facility (RUF).9. Do You Know?Meaning of SOS: Originally a radiotelegraph signal in Morse code chosen for its ease of transmission; often mistakenly back-formed as "Save Our Souls" or "Save Our Ship".Julian vs. Gregorian Calendar: The Gregorian calendar was instituted in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII to correct inaccuracies in the length of the year compared to the Julian calendar.10. Job & Educational TopicsIIT Hyderabad Placements: IITH reported a 62.42% placement rate for B.Tech students in Phase 1, with an average CTC of over ₹30 lakh per annum.Army Recruitment Rally: A recruitment rally for various 'Agniveer' categories will be held at Secunderabad from February 2 to May 10, 2026.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International NewsVenezuela Political Crisis: In a major international development, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was apprehended by U.S. forces and held in a New York prison to face criminal charges related to narco-terrorism. Following this, Venezuela's top court appointed Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez as the Acting President. U.S. President Donald Trump has issued warnings that the interim leader may face severe consequences if she does not comply with certain demands.Global Reactions to Venezuela: India has expressed deep concern for the well-being of the Venezuelan people and called for a peaceful resolution through dialogue. Meanwhile, countries like China and Russia have condemned the U.S. action as a violation of international law.Myanmar Prisoner Release: Marking the 78th anniversary of its independence, Myanmar's junta announced the release of over 6,100 prisoners.2. National Current AffairsRussian Oil Imports: India's imports of Russian oil reached a six-month high in November 2025, accounting for approximately 35% of the country's total oil imports.New Seed Varieties: The Union government has unveiled 184 high-yielding and climate-resilient seed varieties for 25 different crops to help farmers increase productivity and manage climate-related stresses.MGNREGA Controversy: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan criticized the MGNREGA scheme, labeling it synonymous with corruption, and defended the newly passed "Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill".3. Science & TechnologyWolf Supermoon: A rare "Wolf Supermoon" occurred, reaching its peak brightness on the evening of January 2, 2026. This astronomical event combines a "Wolf Moon" (the first full moon of January) with a "Supermoon" (when the moon is at its closest point to Earth).Antarctic Microbial Study: A pioneering study published in Science revealed that certain archaea in Antarctica use a non-standard genetic code to encode rare amino acids, offering new possibilities for bioengineering.4. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Andhra Pradesh Aviation Milestone: A successful validation flight was completed at the new Bhogapuram International Airport in Vizianagaram district. Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu announced that full-fledged operations are expected by June 30, 2026.Telangana Braille Textbooks: The Telangana government has announced the introduction of Braille textbooks for Intermediate and Degree courses to support visually impaired students.Andhra Pradesh Horticulture: The horticulture sector in A.P. has emerged as a major growth engine, contributing ₹1,52,950 crore to the GSDP in the 2024-25 period.5. District & Local NewsAsian Waterbird Census: Bird species enumeration is scheduled to take place in the Godavari estuary, Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, and surrounding areas in Kakinada and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema districts.Olive Ridley Nesting: The discovery of Olive Ridley sea turtle carcasses on Visakhapatnam's beaches has raised concerns among conservationists as the new nesting season begins.Public Grievance Redressal (PGRS): In Eluru, the PGRS has been expanded to mandal, divisional, and municipal levels to ensure faster resolution of citizen issues.6. Sports and GamesT20 World Cup Security Concerns: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced it will not travel to India for the upcoming Men's T20 World Cup, citing security concerns and requesting the ICC to relocate their matches.Hockey India League (HIL): In the Men's HIL, Shrachi Bengal Tigers secured a 3-1 victory over JSW Soorma HC. In the Women's league, the Tigers also won 1-0 against Ranchi Royals.National Car Racing: Teenagers Arjun Chheda and Sai Shiva Sankaran won the MRF Formula 2000 and Formula 1600 races, respectively, at the Madras International Circuit.7. Cinema & EntertainmentOne Minute Film Festival: The Women's Safety Wing of the Telangana Police launched a "One Minute Film Festival" focused on women's safety and child protection to engage youth in social change conversations.8. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Which city is set to become India’s first slum-free city? Answer: C. SuratWho inaugurated the international exhibition of the sacred Piprahwa relics? Answer: C. Narendra ModiWho has been appointed as the Chief Coach of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team? Answer: C. Sjoerd MarijneWhen was the 195th birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule observed? Answer: C. 3 January 2026Which country has legalized cryptocurrency mining and exchange? Answer: C. TurkmenistanWhich state topped India’s investment chart in FY 2026? Answer: D. Andhra PradeshWhere has India’s first government hospital-based AI clinic been established? Answer: C. Greater NoidaThe Bhoramdev Corridor Project was launched in which state? Answer: C. ChhattisgarhWhat rank has India secured in pharmacovigilance contribution to WHO? Answer: EighthWho is the International Event Ambassador for the 21st Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025? Answer: Andre De Grasse 9. Do You Know?Gen Z Stare: A term coined on social media to describe the expressionless stare given by tech-dependent individuals when asked simple verbal questions.Wolf Supermoon Rarity: The combination of a seasonal nickname and an astronomical perigee event makes the "Wolf Supermoon" a significant point of interest for stargazers.10. Job & Educational TopicsScholarship Opportunity: The "Sensodyne IDA Shining Star Scholarship" is open for first-year BDS students, offering ₹50,000 per year for four years.Amgen Scholars Programme: A joint initiative by Amgen India and Harvard University for undergraduate students in STEM fields.11. Day Special: National Bird DayPurpose: To raise awareness about the welfare and physical/behavioral needs of birds, especially those in captivity.History: Launched in the U.S. in 2002.Indian Context: Celebrated on November 12 to honor the birth anniversary of the famous ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali.Ornithology: Allan Octavian Hume.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International AffairsU.S. Forces Capture Maduro: In a major nighttime operation, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores; they are being taken to New York for prosecution on "narco-terrorism" charges.Prosecution: The couple was taken aboard the U.S. warship Iwo Jima and is headed to New York to face prosecution for alleged "narco-terrorism" conspiracy.U.S. Governance: President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. would temporarily run Caracas and tap into Venezuela’s vast oil reserves to sell large amounts to other countries. International Reaction: Left parties in India, including the CPI and CPI(M), condemned the strikes as a "naked act of aggression" and a violation of international lawEarly Results: The military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is leading in early results from the first phase of Myanmar’s general election. Junta Legitimacy: Critics and the international community have denounced the polls as a "sham" designed to transition junta leader Min Aung Hlaing into a civilian presidency. Limited Reach: The elections only cover about half of Myanmar’s territory due to the ongoing civil war between the military and various ethnic armed organizations.Iran Protests: Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei insisted that "rioters must be put in their place" as the death toll from a week of economic protests touched 10. President Trump warned that if Tehran kills peaceful protesters, the U.S. "will come to their rescue".Bangladesh Minority Deaths: A Hindu businessman, Khokon Chandra Das, died three days after being hacked and set on fire in Shariatpur district. This marks the fifth death from the Hindu community in Bangladesh since December 2025.NCP Resignations: Thirteen central leaders of the student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) in Bangladesh resigned over the party's alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami.2. National Current AffairsEconomic Milestone: India has officially surpassed Japan to become the world's fourth-largest economy with a GDP of $4.18 trillion.Chhattisgarh Encounter: Security forces neutralised 14 Maoists, including six women, in two separate encounters in the Sukma and Bijapur districts of the Bastar region. Maoist Surrender: A senior commander of the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA), Badse Sukka, and 19 others surrendered before the Telangana Police, marking the collapse of the last remaining PLGA battalion. National Anti-Terror Policy: The Union government is reportedly finalizing India's first comprehensive anti-terror policy to provide a unified template for States to combat digital radicalization.HAL Civil Aviation: Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) conducted the maiden flight of the Dhruv New Generation (NG) helicopter, marking its formal entry into the civil aviation market.Emergency Defense Deal: The Indian Army signed a ₹1,292-crore contract with NIBE Ltd. to procure Suryastra long-range rocket launchers integrated with Israeli technology. 3. Technology & Economy NewsGlobal Chip Crunch: Signs of a global semiconductor crisis have started appearing in India, with prices for RAM sticks and SSDs surging due to high demand from AI hyper-scalers.EV Battery Tracking: The Transport Ministry proposed assigning a 21-character Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN) to EV batteries for end-to-end traceability.Digital Security: Android smartphones were found to have the highest level of AI-powered protections against mobile threats according to Counterpoint Research.4. Environment & SpaceTiger Mortality: India recorded a record 166 tiger deaths in 2025, with Madhya Pradesh reporting the highest number.Space Roadmap: ISRO is targeting March 2026 for the uncrewed Gaganyaan (G1) mission, while NASA's Artemis-II is scheduled for early February.Air Quality Hazardous: Air quality in Visakhapatnam plunged to "hazardous" levels as PM2.5 readings crossed 300 due to industrial emissions and weather conditions.5. Andhra Pradesh State NewsInvestment Leader: A Bank of Baroda report placed Andhra Pradesh at the top of the country, capturing 25.30% of all proposed capital investments in the first nine months of FY26.Bhogapuram Airport: The first validation test flight, an Air India aircraft from New Delhi, is scheduled to land at the new Bhogapuram International Airport today.Farmer Compensation: The State government deposited ₹128.33 crore directly into the bank accounts of 37,752 onion farmers from Kurnool and Kadapa who suffered crop losses.6. Telangana State NewsAssembly Sessions: CM Revanth Reddy alleged in the Assembly that the previous government "mortgaged" Krishna water rights, pledging to complete the Palamuru-Rangareddy (PRLIS) project in three years.Eye Care Expansion: The government will establish Eye Care Clinics across the state, with Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital in Hyderabad acting as the central hub.Abolishing 2-Child Norm: The Legislative Assembly passed a bill to remove the law that disqualified individuals with more than two children from contesting local body elections.7. Sports & GamesIPL Development: Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman was dropped from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad following instructions from the BCCI amid strained ties.Cricket Captaincy: Shubman Gill has been named to lead the Indian Men's team in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.Chess Milestone: Koneru Humpy secured a bronze medal at the World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha.National Shooting: Army shooter Ajay Kumar won the men's 10m air pistol gold at the National shooting championships.8. General Knowledge (GK Zone)MANI App: Launched by RBI to help visually challenged persons identify the denomination of currency notes.Myopia vs. Hypermetropia: Myopia is nearsightedness (near objects clear), while Hypermetropia is farsightedness (distant objects clear).Vyommitra: The half-humanoid robot designed by ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission to simulate human functions in space.9. Do You Know?Do you know that the Braille script was originally based on a 12-dot code before being simplified to the current 6-dot system?.Do you know that World Sight Day is observed annually on October 13?.Do you know why humans get goosebumps? Scientifically called piloerection, it is an evolutionary vestige to trap air for insulation or to appear larger to threats.10. Today’s Special Day: World Braille DaySignificance: Observed annually on January 4 to mark the birth anniversary of Louis Braille (born 1809), the inventor of the Braille script for the visually impaired.Braille System: A tactile writing system used by people who are visually impaired; Louis discovered the script at the age of 15.Health Tech: Elon Musk's Neuralink has developed ‘Blindsight,’ a brain-chip device aimed at assisting blind individuals.Insurance Milestone: Star Health has introduced specialized Braille Insurance Policies specifically for visually impaired citizens.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International AffairsBulgaria Joins Eurozone: As of January 1, 2026, Bulgaria has officially adopted the Euro as its currency, becoming the 21st nation in the Eurozone.Iran Tensions: U.S. President Donald Trump has warned he is "locked and loaded" to intervene in Iran if the government uses lethal force against economic protesters. Iranian officials responded that American bases in West Asia would become "legitimate targets" if Washington interferes.China’s Contraceptive Tax: In an effort to boost declining birth rates, China has implemented a 13% "Contraceptive Tax".2. National Economy & DevelopmentWorld’s 4th Largest Economy: India has officially overtaken Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, with a GDP valued at $4.18 trillion.Electronics Manufacturing Hub: The Central government has approved 22 new electronics manufacturing projects with a combined investment of ₹41,863 crore under the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS).India’s Export Push: The government operationalized two new credit-linked plans under the Export Promotion Mission (EPM) to reduce the cost of credit for MSME exporters.3. Technology & Space NewsAI Regulation (Grok Chatbot): The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology directed the social media platform X to review its chatbot Grok. The directive follows reports that the AI was being misused to generate and share obscene morphed visuals of women.Space Roadmap 2026: India is targeting March 2026 for the Gaganyaan G1 mission (uncrewed), which will carry the humanoid robot Vyommitra to test life support systems.Connectivity Milestone: BSNL has officially launched its Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi) services nationwide, allowing users to make calls via WiFi in areas with poor network coverage.4. Environment & WildlifeTiger Mortality Report 2025: India recorded a record 166 tiger deaths in the year 2025, according to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of deaths.Aravalli Range Protection: The Supreme Court recently stayed its previous order that limited the definition of the Aravalli hills, acting to prevent large-scale mining that threatened the range's ecological integrity.5. Andhra Pradesh State NewsLand Record Reform: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu launched the distribution of 22 lakh new pattadar passbooks featuring the State Emblem and QR codes, replacing documents that carried political imagery.Investment Destination: Andhra Pradesh emerged as India's leading investment destination, capturing 25.30% of all proposed capital investments in the first nine months of FY26.Infrastructure Approval: The state issued a G.O. for a new greenfield port and mega shipbuilding cluster at Dugarajapatnam in Tirupati District.6. Telangana State NewsMGNREGA Resolution: The Telangana Assembly adopted an unopposed resolution demanding the Centre restore the original MGNREGA and withdraw the new VB-GRAM G law.Musi River Rejuvenation: The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the first phase of the Musi River Rejuvenation project (covering 21 km) will be ready within days, with a proposed budget of ₹4,100 crore.Road Safety Tax: The Telangana Assembly passed a bill to levy a road safety tax on new vehicles to fund safety initiatives.7. Sports & GamesHockey India Coaching: Sjoerd Marijne has been reappointed as the head coach of the Indian women's hockey team.Cricket Retirement: Australian opener Usman Khawaja announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket.Badminton Victory: Rithvik Sanjeevi and Surya Charishma Tamiri were crowned the men’s and women’s singles champions at the 87th Senior National Badminton Championships in Vijayawada.8. General Knowledge (GK Zone)Trikarana Suddhi: A philosophical concept referring to the purity of thought, word, and deed (manasa, vacha, karmana).Kavach System: An indigenously developed Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) certified anti-collision technology for Indian Railways.Frequency Comb: A specialized laser used as a reference to measure light frequencies with extreme precision, essential for calibrating atomic clocks.9. Do You Know?Do you know why humans get goosebumps? Scientifically called piloerection, it is a vestigial reflex where muscles pull hairs upright to trap air for insulation or to look larger to predators.Do you know why spicy food causes a runny nose? Capsaicin triggers neurogenic inflammation, which stimulates the body to produce mucus to "wash away" the irritant.Do you know that nearly 65% of India’s population is currently below 35 years of age?.10. Today’s Special Day: International Mind-Body Wellness DaySignificance: Observed annually on January 3 to promote the importance of mental and physical harmony through practices like yoga, meditation, and healthy eating.Wellness News: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Chandrachud recently inaugurated an Ayush Wellness Center at the Supreme Court premises to provide holistic health services to legal professionals.State Initiatives: Uttarakhand CM released a book focused on student wellness, highlighting the need to address mental health challenges early in life.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International NewsZohran Mamdani Sworn in as NYC Mayor: Zohran Mamdani, 34, was sworn in as the Mayor of New York City in a private ceremony held in an abandoned subway station shortly after midnight. He is the son of filmmaker Mira Nair and professor Mahmood Mamdani.Tragedy at Swiss Ski Resort: A massive fire at the "Le Constellation" bar in the upscale Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana during New Year's Eve celebrations resulted in nearly 40 deaths and over 100 injuries. Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have been caused by a bottle with lit "birthday candles" held too close to a wooden ceiling.Drone Attack in Kherson: A drone attack on a cafe in Russia-held Kherson killed 24 people.2. National Current AffairsIndia's First Bullet Train: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that India’s first bullet train is slated to become operational on August 15, 2027. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor will open in phases, starting with the Surat to Bilimora section.AI Skilling Challenge: President Droupadi Murmu launched the "Skill the Nation" challenge to promote advanced AI skills and build a future-ready workforce.New Tobacco Tax Regime: Effective February 1, 2026, beedis will be moved to the 18% GST slab, while all other tobacco products will be in the 40% bracket. The GST compensation cess will also be discontinued from this date.FASTag Relief: Starting February 1, the "Know Your Vehicle" (KYV) process for new FASTag issuances for cars, jeeps, and vans will be discontinued to improve user convenience.Nuclear & Prisoner Lists Exchanged: India and Pakistan exchanged lists of nuclear installations and facilities as part of a bilateral pact. They also exchanged lists of prisoners; Pakistan currently holds 257 Indian prisoners.Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: The first Vande Bharat sleeper train, capable of speeds up to 180 kmph, will ply between Guwahati and Kolkata starting later this month.3. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Andhra Pradesh Land Reform: In a "New Year gift," the AP government removed five categories of land, including private patta lands and lands allotted to defence personnel/freedom fighters, from the prohibited Section 22A list.Power Tariff Relief (AP): The AP government decided to absorb the entire true-up burden of ₹4,497.89 crore for the 2019-24 period, ensuring no additional financial burden on consumers.Telangana Assembly Session: The State Assembly resumes on January 2 amid high tension over Krishna River water sharing and irrigation projects.Subsidised Wheat Flour (AP): The AP government launched a pilot project to distribute high-quality stone-ground wheat flour (chakki atta) at a subsidised price of ₹20 per kg through ration shops.Administrative Reshuffle (AP): Annamayya district officially began functioning with Madanapalle as its headquarters from January 1, 2026.4. District & Local NewsTragic Accident at Antarvedi: A New Year's celebration turned tragic when a jeep plunged into the sea at the Antarvedi beach confluence in BR Ambedkar Konaseema district, resulting in the death of a 55-year-old man.Nandyal Poisoning Case: In a shocking incident in Thudumaladinne village, a construction worker allegedly poisoned his three children with pesticide-laced soft drinks before ending his own life.Road Safety Month: National Road Safety Month (Jan 1–31) was inaugurated in both states. In Telangana, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar released awareness materials under the slogan "Sadak Suraksha, Jeevan Suraksha".Drunk Driving Stats: Hyderabad reported a 5% decline in drunk driving cases on New Year's Eve, with 2,731 motorists booked.5. Sports and GamesChess Victory: The Alpine SG Pipers won the third season of the Global Chess League (GCL) in Mumbai, coached by Pravin Thipsay.TOPS Update: Wrestler Reetika Hooda was dropped from the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) core group following a failed dope test, while compound archers like Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Abhishek Verma were promoted.Table Tennis: The WTT Youth Contender and WTT Feeder Series began in Vadodara with 334 players from 10 countries.ISL Uncertainty: 13 Indian Super League clubs have conditioned their participation in the 2025-26 season on the waiver of participation fees by the AIFF.6. Cinema & EntertainmentTollywood Pay Hikes: Allu Arjun reportedly received ₹300 crore for Pushpa 2: The Rule, making him one of the highest-paid actors in Indian cinema. Other stars like Prabhas and Mahesh Babu command between ₹100–200 crore.Script Craft Festival: Actor Prabhas unveiled "The Script Craft International Short Film Festival" to provide a platform for aspiring filmmakers.New Release: The indie-style film Psych Siddhartha was released on January 1, 2026.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Indore Water Crisis: Approximately 1,400 people fell ill in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, due to contaminated drinking water supplied by the municipal corporation.Organ Donation Record: Andhra Pradesh's "Jeevandan" initiative facilitated a record 301 transplants in the past year from 93 brain-dead donors.Liquor Sales Surge: AP recorded liquor sales worth ₹2,767 crore in December 2025, with Vizag topping the districts (₹178.6 crore).8. Do You Know?Gaganyaan 2026: ISRO is preparing for its first uncrewed orbital test (G1 mission) tentatively in March 2026, which will carry a humanoid robot named Vyommitra.Artemis II: NASA’s mission to send humans beyond the Moon for the first time in over 50 years is scheduled for no earlier than February 5, 2026.TTD Record: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) distributed a decade-high 13.52 crore laddus in 2025.9. Job & Educational TopicsPattadar Passbook Drive: A week-long drive to distribute newly designed Pattadar passbooks with the state emblem begins on January 2, 2026.IIM Lucknow Vacancy: Applications are invited for 42 non-faculty contractual posts.Skill Training: The Central Institute of Tool Design (CITD) in Hyderabad announced admissions for various industrial training and internship programs, including AI application development and CNC programming.10. Day Special36th Vijayawada Book Festival: Inaugurated today (January 2) by Supreme Court Judge Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha at the GMC Stadium. The 11-day festival features 315 stalls.DRDO Foundation Day: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited DRDO HQ on its 68th Foundation Day and highlighted the "Sudarshan Chakra" air defence initiative.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsBangladesh Mourns Khaleda Zia: Former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia (80) was buried at the Jatiya Sansad in Dhaka. Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a letter expressing that her passing leaves an "irreplaceable void" in India-Bangladesh relations.India-China Mediation Refusal: India officially refuted China's claim of mediating between India and Pakistan during the recent "Operation Sindoor". The Ministry of External Affairs maintained that no such mediation or trade deal discussion took place.Maldives Airport Upgrade: The Maldives has requested a $136.6 million upgrade for its northern airport, featuring a 2,465-metre runway capable of handling Airbus A320 aircraft.Iran Protests: Iran’s prosecutor general stated that while economic protests are legitimate, any attempt to create insecurity would face a "decisive response".2. National Current AffairsVodafone-Idea Relief: The Union Cabinet approved a five-year freeze on Vodafone Idea Ltd.’s adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues, amounting to ₹2,87,695 crore.Indore Water Crisis: The death toll from contaminated municipal water in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has reached 10, with over 2,000 people falling ill.SC Aravalli Intervention: The Supreme Court stayed its own previous order that had restricted the definition of the Aravalli Range, citing concerns about stripping environmental protection from thousands of hills.Army's Animal Contingent: For the first time, a curated animal contingent including Bactrian camels and Zanskar ponies will debut at the 2026 Republic Day parade.3. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Telangana Godavari Water Defense: Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy asserted that Telangana has taken proactive legal measures to prevent Andhra Pradesh from unilaterally diverting Godavari waters.A.P. Polavaram Progress: Water Resources Minister Nimmala Rama Naidu announced that 87% of the Polavaram Project is now complete, with 13% finished in just the last 18 months.GHMC Restructuring: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is likely to be split into three separate corporations—Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Malkajgiri—after February 2026.Andhra Power Milestone: The state's power sector reported reducing distribution losses to 9.6% and average procurement costs to ₹4.90 per unit.4. District & Local NewsKarimnagar (Monkey Menace): A 55-year-old woman died after falling while trying to escape a pack of monkeys in Lingapur village.Bhogapuram (Flight Test): The greenfield international airport at Bhogapuram is scheduled for a commercial flight validation test on January 4, 2026.Markapuram (New District): New nameboards were installed in Markapuram town to mark its official formation as a new district in Andhra Pradesh.Tirupati (Vaikuntha Ekadasi): Thousands of devotees thronged temples in Tirupati for 'Uttara Dwara Darshan'; Vontimitta alone witnessed over 50,000 visitors.5. Sports and GamesVijay Hazare Trophy Baroda Win: Baroda posted its highest List A total of 417/4 in a win over Hyderabad, featuring centuries from Nitya Pandya, Amit Pasi, and Krunal Pandya.Deepti Sharma Record: Deepti Sharma became the format's leading wicket-taker in women's T20Is with 152 wickets, surpassing Australia’s Megan Schutt.ICC Test Rankings: Mitchell Starc climbed to joint-second spot among bowlers, while Harry Brook moved up to No. 2 among batters.World Rapid Chess: Koneru Humpy settled for a bronze medal in the World Rapid Championship held in Doha.6. Cinema & Entertainment'Osey Balamma' Sundance Selection: The Telugu short film has been selected for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.Satirist Sreenivasan Tributes: The film industry continues to mourn the legendary Malayalam actor-director known for his political satire.Bihar Film Policy: The Bihar government approved the shooting of 37 films and web series under its 2024 Film Promotion Policy.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Trikarana Suddhi: A philosophical concept of purity in thought, word, and deed.Chillai Kalan: The traditional name for the harshest 40-day winter period in the Kashmir valley.Word of the Day: Fortuitous — Happening by chance rather than by intention.Hype: Promoting a product aggressively or overpraising something.8. Do You Know?Do you know that the Indian space economy is projected to grow from $8 billion to $44 billion in the coming years?.Do you know that nearly 10% of India's population is concentrated in Uttar Pradesh?.Do you know that the 85th edition of Hyderabad’s "Numaish" exhibition opens today, with proceeds supporting 30,000 students in 19 institutions?.9. Job & Educational TopicsSpeech Pathologist Merit List: The Telangana MHSRB released a provisional merit list for the recruitment of Speech Pathologists.AIIMS Ph.D. Admissions: Online applications are open for the Ph.D. program at AIIMS Bhubaneswar with 34 vacancies.Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue: A new platform for youth to contribute directly to national policy-making.Day Special: 1 January🎆 New Year 2026Global Transition: Millions gathered worldwide to ring in 2026; in Hyderabad, crowds gathered at the Secretariat plaza to celebrate.Numaish Inauguration: The 85th All India Industrial Exhibition (Numaish-2026) begins today in Hyderabad, inaugurated by CM Revanth Reddy.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsDeath of Khaleda Zia: Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister and BNP leader Khaleda Zia passed away at the age of 80. She was the first woman to be elected Prime Minister of Bangladesh. A three-day state mourning has been announced in Bangladesh.India Becomes 4th Largest Economy: The Indian government announced that India has surpassed Japan to become the world's fourth-largest economy with a GDP valued at $4.18 trillion. India is projected to become the third-largest by 2030.Bangladesh Radical Group Arrests: The Special Task Force (STF) of Assam arrested 11 people with alleged links to a radical offshoot of the Imam Mahmuder Kafila (IMK), a banned extremist group in Bangladesh.H-1B Visa Scrutiny: The U.S. government has significantly increased vetting of H-1B visa applicants, now including detailed checks of social media profiles, leading to mass interview cancellations for Indian nationals.2. National Current AffairsAdvisory on Obscene Content: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued an advisory to social media platforms to proactively use technology to detect and remove pornographic and obscene content.U.P. Voter List Revision Extension: The Election Commission extended the deadline for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Uttar Pradesh. The draft roll will now be published on January 6, 2026. Nearly 2.89 crore names were deleted for reasons like death or shifting.HAL's Civil Market Entry: Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) successfully conducted the maiden flight of the Dhruv New Generation (NG) helicopter, marking its formal entry into the civil aviation market.Water Crisis in M.P.: Five people died in Madhya Pradesh due to suspected contaminated water consumption, with over 1,000 others affected.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana)Telangana Crime Rate: The Director General of Police announced a 2.33% decline in the overall crime rate in Telangana for 2025 compared to the previous year.A.P. Group-II Reservation Verdict: The Andhra Pradesh High Court dismissed petitions challenging the reservation roster and notification for Group-II services recruitment, allowing the process to continue.Telangana Entrance Tests (TG CETs): The TGCHE announced the schedule for professional course entrance tests for 2026-27. TG EAPCET will be held on May 4 and 5.Drain Modernisation in A.P.: Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan laid the foundation stone for the ₹20.77-crore modernisation of the Sankaraguptam Major Drain in Konaseema to help coconut farmers.4. District NewsNTR District (Crime Data): The overall crime rate in the NTR Police Commissionerate limits decreased by 21.66% in 2025.Nirmal (ACB Arrest): A mandal surveyor was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau for accepting a bribe of ₹7,500 for land demarcation.Karimnagar (Tiger Alert): Forest officials intensified vigil after tiger pug marks were found in agricultural fields in Bahadurkhanpet village.Hyderabad (Metro Services): Hyderabad Metro and MMTS announced special late-night services until 1 a.m. on January 1 for New Year's Eve commuters.5. Sports and GamesWomen's T20I Series Sweep: India completed a 5-0 series sweep against Sri Lanka. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma were the stars of the final match.Deepti Sharma's Record: Indian off-spinner Deepti Sharma became the top wicket-taker in women's T20Is, surpassing Megan Schutt's tally of 151 wickets.Senior National Badminton: Rithvik Sanjeevi and Surya Charishma Tamiri were crowned the men's and women's singles champions respectively at the 87th Senior National Badminton Championships in Vijayawada.WPL Replacement: Sayali Satghare joined RCB as a replacement for Ellyse Perry, who withdrew from the upcoming league for personal reasons.6. Cinema & Entertainment'Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu' Song: A high-energy promotional mass song from the movie was released at Vignan University, Guntur.Documentary Icon Passes Away: Acclaimed filmmaker S. Krishnaswamy, known for the historic documentary Indus Valley to Indira Gandhi, passed away at 88.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Trikarana Suddhi: The Indian philosophical principle of purity in thought, word, and deed.Frequency Comb: A laser tool used for extreme precision in measuring light frequencies and gravity shifts.Alaknanda Galaxy: A spiral galaxy discovered by Indian astronomers, existing when the universe was only 1.5 billion years old.Word of the Day: Panoply — A complete and impressive array or display.8. Do You Know?Do you know why humans get headaches? Headaches occur when pain-sensitive tissues around the head, like blood vessels and muscles, are stretched or inflamed, though the brain tissue itself does not feel pain.Do you know that the 38th Hyderabad Book Fair set a record with 16 lakh visitors?.Do you know why we get goosebumps? It is a vestigial reflex called piloerection, intended to trap air for insulation or make an animal look larger.9. Job & Educational TopicsBEL Recruitment: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) invited applications for Trainee Engineer and Trainee Officer positions on a contract basis.SSC Vocational Subject: The AP government announced that a vocational subject will be mandatory in the SSC Board exams from the next academic year.MOIL Recruitment: MOIL Limited invited applications for various Graduate and Management Trainee posts.Day Special: 31 DecemberNew Year's EveSignificance: The final day of the Gregorian calendar year, celebrated globally with countdowns and resolutions as the world prepares to welcome 2026.Regional Context: Major cities like Hyderabad have enhanced security and extended public transport services (Metro/MMTS) to ensure safe celebrations.
Authored by: K Shiva1. International NewsTrump-Putin Summit: Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a summit to discuss global security and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.Myanmar Elections: Myanmar is pressing ahead with a three-phase general election under the military junta, despite widespread criticism from the UN, EU, and major opposition parties being excluded.Thailand-Cambodia Ceasefire: China is mediating talks in Yunnan to consolidate a "hard-won" ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia following weeks of border clashes.Russian Strike on Ukraine: A major Russian aerial barrage involving over 650 drones and dozens of missiles targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure, killing at least three people.2. National Current AffairsSC Aravalli Stay: The Supreme Court stayed its own November 20 judgment that restricted the definition of the Aravalli Range, expressing concern that the narrow definition would strip environmental protection from thousands of hills.Unnao Case: The Supreme Court stayed the suspension of the sentence and bail granted to former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 minor kidnap and rape case.Gas Output Dispute: The Union Government is seeking $30 billion in redress from Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and BP over a lag in gas output from the KG-D6 block.IIP Growth: India's Index of Industrial Production (IIP) surged to a 25-month high of 6.7% in November 2025, driven by manufacturing and capital goods.MGNREGA Fake Demand: The Centre informed a parliamentary committee that "fake demand" for rural jobs will not be entertained during the transition to the new VB-G RAM G Act.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana)AP Cabinet Decisions: The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet approved a ₹7,387 crore loan from NABARD for Amaravati infrastructure and introduced a 10% Road Safety Cess on motor vehicles.Telangana Police Restructuring: The Telangana government created a fourth Police Commissionerate for the region, resulting in four units: Hyderabad, Cyberabad, Malkajgiri, and Future City.DA Hike: The AP government announced a 3.64% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for employees and pensioners.Plastic-Free Mission: CM Chandrababu Naidu set a goal to make AP garbage-free by Jan 26 and plastic-free by June 2026.4. District NewsVijayawada (Train Fire): A passenger (75) was killed in a fire on the Tata-Ernakulam Express near Yelamanchili. Over 150 passengers were successfully evacuated.Visakhapatnam (Port Milestone): Roshni Aparanji Korati assumed charge as the first woman Deputy Chairperson of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority.Guntur (Crime Drop): Crime in Guntur district saw a 13% decline in 2025, with police seizing significant quantities of ganja and roosterfight knives.Hyderabad (Book Fair): The 38th Hyderabad Book Fair concluded with a record footfall of 16 lakh visitors.5. Sports and GamesSmriti Mandhana Milestone: Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana became only the fourth woman in history to score 10,000 international runs.National Badminton: Rithvik Sanjeevi (Men's) and Surya Charishma Tamiri (Women's) clinched the singles titles at the 87th Senior National Badminton Championships in Vijayawada.T20 World Cup: Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian squad for the 2026 World Cup, while Shubman Gill was dropped.Vijay Hazare Trophy: Virat Kohli became the fastest player to reach 16,000 List A runs during Delhi's match against Gujarat.6. CinemaSatirist Remembered: Tributes continue for the legendary Malayalam actor-director Sreenivasan, known for his iconic political satire Sandesham.Sundance Entry: The Telugu short film Osey Balamma has been officially selected for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Kavach System: An indigenous SIL-4 certified anti-collision system for Indian Railways aimed at preventing train accidents.Trikarana Suddhi: A philosophical concept referring to the purity of thought, word, and deedWord of the Day: Terse — Brief and to the point; concise.Glitch vs. Hype: A 'glitch' is a minor fault in a system, while 'hype' refers to aggressive promotion or overpraising something.8. Do You Know?Do you know that nearly 32 lakh electors in West Bengal were found to be "unmapped" in recent draft roll revisions?.Do you know why humans get goosebumps? Scientifically called piloerection, it is a vestigial reflex where muscles pull hairs upright for insulation or to look larger to predators.Do you know that the Board of Intermediate Education, AP is the first school board in India to be recognized as a national awarding body by NCVET?.9. Job & Educational TopicsJob Mela: A special job mela for women drivers is being organized in Hyderabad on January 3.Medical Faculty Scheme: Telangana is rolling out the "You Quote, We Pay" scheme to attract specialist doctors to government medical colleges.Admissions: Registrations are open for PES University 2026 and KNRUHS M.Sc. Nursing and MPT courses.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsMyanmar’s First Post-Junta Election: Myanmar held the initial phase of its first general election in five years under the supervision of its military government. Critics, including UN experts, have labeled the polls a "sham" due to the exclusion of formerly popular opposition parties.Trump-Zelenskyy Peace Talks: U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago estate for critical talks on ending the war with Russia. Hours earlier, Trump reported having a "productive" call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.Thailand-Cambodia Ceasefire Mediation: China is hosting two days of talks in Yunnan province to solidify a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia following weeks of border fighting that displaced over half a million people.Russian Warning to Europe: Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that while Russia does not intend to attack Europe, its response to any European strike would be "devastating".2. National Current AffairsPresident's Submarine Sortie: President Droupadi Murmu became only the second Indian President to undertake a dive sortie aboard an Indian Navy submarine, embarking on the indigenous Kalvari-class INS Vaghsheer at Karwar.PM's Year-Ending Mann Ki Baat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed 2025 as a year of "proud achievements," citing milestones like Operation Sindoor, the completion of 150 years of Vande Mataram, and the success of Indian athletes in global tournaments.Voter Roll Revisions in U.P. & Bengal: * Uttar Pradesh: Nearly 2.89 crore names have been deleted from the draft electoral rolls scheduled for publication on December 31.West Bengal: The Election Commission conditionally halted voter hearings for "unmapped" electors whose names or ancestral links are present on the 2002 list following widespread criticism.National Anti-Malaria Success: Home Minister Amit Shah announced a 97% reduction in malaria cases in India, stating the country will be free of the disease in a "short time".3. State Current Affairs (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh)Telangana Assembly Winter Session: The winter session begins today amid high tension, with a major focus on the public challenge issued by CM Revanth Reddy to BRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao regarding Krishna river water sharing.Andhra Pradesh 'Ram Rajya' Benchmark: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu visited Ayodhya, stating that "Ram Rajya" remains the ultimate benchmark for exemplary, ethical, and people-centric governance.Skill Census and Al Hubs: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Cyient Al & Future Skills Hub in West Godavari, emphasizing that education is the only true pathway to development.Electric Mobility Boost: Under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, Hyderabad is set to receive 2,000 electric buses, while Andhra Pradesh will receive 750, including 150 specifically for Visakhapatnam.4. District & Local NewsHyderabad Industrial Exhibition (Numaish): The 85th edition of the "Numaish" is scheduled to open at the Exhibition Grounds on January 1, 2026, featuring over 1,050 manufacturers.Vijayawada Real Estate: Industry experts reported that Vijayawada's real estate saw only moderate progress in 2025, falling slightly short of expectations despite the shift in focus to the Amaravati capital region.Visakhapatnam Tourism: TDP State president Palla Srinivasa Rao advocated for retaining the Rushikonda buildings as a tourism-oriented asset to ensure regular revenue for the State.5. Sports and GamesBadminton Senior Nationals: Surya Charishma Tamiri and Rithvik Sanjeevi clinched the women's and men's titles respectively at the senior National badminton championships in Vijayawada.Cricket Milestone: Smriti Mandhana became the fourth woman globally to complete 10,000 international runs during India's fourth T20I win against Sri Lanka.Cricket Partnership Record: Mandhana and Shafali Verma registered a 162-run opening stand, the highest partnership for India in women's T20Is.Women’s Hockey India League: SG Pipers defeated Ranchi Royals 2-0 in the opening match of the league in Ranchi.6. Cinema & Arts Brigitte Bardot Passes Away: Legendary French film icon and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot died at the age of 91.S. Krishnaswamy Passes Away: Acclaimed documentary filmmaker S. Krishnaswamy, known for his magnum opus Indus Valley to Indira Gandhi, passed away in Chennai at 88.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Trikarana Suddhi: A threefold discipline in Indian philosophy referring to purity of thought, word, and deed (manasa, vacha, karmana).Frequency Comb: A specialized laser light used as a stable reference to measure light frequencies with extreme precision, often described as having a spectrum that resembles the teeth of a comb.Alaknanda Galaxy: An "implausibly old" spiral galaxy discovered by Indian astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope; it existed when the universe was only 1.5 billion years old.Chillai Kalan: The traditional name for the harshest 40-day winter period in the Kashmir valley.8. Do You Know?Do you know that nearly 10% of India's population is currently concentrated in the state of Uttar Pradesh?Do you know that a "Frequency Comb" is essential for calibrating atomic clocks and measuring shifts in light caused by gravity?Do you know why humans get goosebumps? It is a vestigial reflex called "piloerection" where muscles at the base of hair follicles contract to make hair stand up, originally used by our ancestors for insulation or to look larger to predators.9. Job & Educational TopicsPES University 2026 Admissions: Registrations are now open for various streams including Engineering, Medicine, and Management.Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue: PM Modi highlighted this platform as a key way for youth to contribute directly to nation-building.H-1B Visa Vetting: New U.S. vetting processes now include deep scrutiny of applicants' social media history, contributing to recent interview cancellations.Day Special: 28 December🎗️ Indian National Congress Foundation DayHistory: The Indian National Congress (INC) celebrated its 141st Foundation Day on December 28, 2025.Significance: Founded in 1885 in Bombay, the party played a pivotal role in India’s independence movement and post-independence nation-building.Celebrations: Events were held across the country, including at Gandhi Bhavan in Hyderabad, where floral tributes were paid to leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
Author by: K Shiva1. International NewsTarique Rahman’s Return: Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), returned to Dhaka from London after 17 years in exile. He arrived with a message of inclusion, calling for inter-communal and inter-ethnic harmony to move beyond "politics driven by vengeance".H-1B Visa Interview Concerns: India has expressed serious concern to the U.S. regarding the mass cancellation of H-1B visa interviews for Indian applicants . The government is "actively engaged" with the U.S. side to minimize disruptions caused by these cancellations .U.S. Strike on Islamic State: The U.S. military reported striking more than 70 Islamic State targets inside central Syria .Chilean Presidential Election: José Antonio Kast won the presidential runoff in Chile with 58.2% of the vote, marking a right-wing shift focused on "order, security, and trust" .2. National Current AffairsDraft Electoral Roll Revisions: * Assam: Over 10.56 lakh voters were deleted from the draft rolls after a house-to-house verification; 4.79 lakh were dead and 5.23 lakh had shifted.West Bengal: The SIR (Special Intensive Revision) led to the deletion of over 58 lakh names, including approximately 32 lakh "unmapped" electors.Congress's 'MGNREGA Bachao' Campaign: The Congress party announced the launch of the MGNREGA Bachao Andolan on January 5, 2026, a nationwide agitation against the new Viksit Bharat G-RAM-G legislation that replaced the rural employment guarantee scheme.Kavach System Update: The Railways aims to operationalize the indigenous automatic train protection system, Kavach, on the Mumbai-Delhi and Delhi-Kolkata routes by 2026 after missing the December 2025 deadline.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)District Reorganisation: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to proceed with district and mandal reorganisation based on public feedback. Notable changes include merging five mandals of Guntur with Nellore district and bifurcating Adoni into two mandals.Coconut Development: CM Naidu sought ₹200 crore in central assistance for an Integrated Coconut Development Programme to position A.P. as a leading hub for coconut products and increase farmer incomes.State Energy Efficiency: Andhra Pradesh topped the State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2025 with 89.25 points, winning the first prize in the Group-II category .4. District NewsVijayawada (Power Cut Row): Power supply to the Kanaka Durga temple was briefly disconnected by APCPDCL due to pending bills of ₹3.08 crore but was restored after discussions.Parvathipuram (Garbage Vehicle Incident): Public outrage erupted after a tribal woman’s body was transported in a garbage vehicle in Gummalakshmipuram because the family could not afford the ₹2,500 demanded by a private ambulance.East Godavari (Animal Sacrifice): Seven persons were arrested in Chodavaram for allegedly sacrificing a goat in public in front of a flex board of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.5. Sports and GamesCricket (T20 World Cup): Ishan Kishan has returned to the Indian squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, while Shubman Gill was dropped .Badminton Nationals: T. Surya Charishma will face Tanvi Patri in the women's final of the National Badminton Championships in Vijayawada.U-19 Asia Cup: Pakistan won the title by defeating India by 191 runs in the final in Dubai .6. CinemaActor Sivaji’s Apology: Telugu actor Sivaji appeared before the Telangana State Commission for Women and apologized for remarks he made about women during a recent film event.Malayalam Satirist Remembered: Tributes continue for actor-director Sreenivasan, who passed away, leaving a massive legacy in political satire .7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Vikasit Bharat G-RAM-G: The new legislation that replaced the UPA-era MGNREGA scheme.D-Voters: In Assam, "D voters" (Doubtful voters) are those whose citizenship cases are pending before Foreigners Tribunals.Kavach System: An indigenously developed Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) certified anti-collision system for Indian Railways.Chillai Kalan: The harshest 40-day phase of winter in Kashmir, running from December 21 to January 31.8. Do You Know?Do you know why humans get goosebumps? Scientifically called piloerection, it's an evolutionary reflex where tiny arrector pili muscles contract to pull hairs upright, a trait inherited from hairier ancestors where it served as insulation.Do you know that nearly 32 lakh 'unmapped' electors in West Bengal have no recorded links to the 2002 voters' list?Do you know that a fake anti-rabies vaccine batch (Abhayrab) was recently pulled from shelves in India after an Australian health advisory?9. Job & Educational TopicsPES University Admissions: Registration is open for 2026 for various undergraduate and postgraduate streams .NTR Educational Institutions: CM Naidu lauded the trust for nurturing students who have gone on to secure posts as junior civil judges and clear Group-I exams.Railway Recruitment: RRB has invited applications for Junior Translator (Hindi) and Chief Law Assistant with a January 29 deadline .Day Special: 28 December🎗️ Ratan N. Tata Birth AnniversarySignificance: Today marks the birth anniversary of Padma Vibhushan Ratan N. Tata (1937–2024), an icon of Indian industry and a celebrated humanitarian.Legacy: Known as the "Father of Modern Indian Industry," his leadership transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse while maintaining a steadfast commitment to philanthropy .
1. International NewsH-1B Visa Interview Crisis: India has raised grave concerns with the U.S. over the mass cancellation of scheduled H-1B visa interviews. Thousands of applicants have seen their appointments abruptly postponed until as late as May to allow for enhanced vetting of social media and online profiles.Syria Military Strikes: The U.S. military reported striking over 70 Islamic State targets inside central Syria, deploying more than 100 munitions to dismantle extremist infrastructure.Bangladesh Minority Rights: India flagged the "unremitting hostility" against minority communities in Bangladesh, citing over 2,900 violent incidents including the brutal lynching of a Hindu youth in Mymensingh.South Korea Political Turmoil: A special prosecutor has sought a 10-year prison term for former President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of obstructing his own arrest following a failed bid to impose martial law.2. National Current AffairsCounter-Terror Capability Drive: Union Home Minister Amit Shah called for a thorough analysis of all terrorist incidents from the past year to enhance national capabilities, highlighting the investigation into the Pahalgam attack as a model of "watertight" policing.Aravalli Definition Failure: Despite a year of expert deliberation, the Centre failed to establish a uniform definition for the Aravalli hills, eventually submitting a height-based definition (hills above 100m) to the Supreme Court to avoid contempt proceedings.Aadhaar Access Expansion: The UIDAI announced the opening of 473 new Aadhaar centres starting September 2026 to ensure wider public access to enrollment and update services.Assam Ethnic Clashes: The Indian Army was deployed in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district following violent ethnic clashes over tribal grazing lands.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Crime Rate Trends: Andhra Pradesh recorded an overall 5.5% dip in crime during 2025, though fatal road accidents (over 8,200) remain a major cause for concern.Cybercrime Bust: The A.P. CID busted an international cybercrime racket, arresting 14 individuals including a Vietnamese national, in coordination with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).Science and Tradition Balance: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that modern science and traditional Indian knowledge systems should run concurrently to drive national progress.Governance Rank: NTR District bagged the first rank in Andhra Pradesh for 'Speed of Doing' in governance and service delivery.4. District & Local NewsVijayawada (Trafficking Probe): The police continue to uncover the "corporate-style" operations of the recently busted child trafficking network, focusing on the role of private clinic brokers.Tirupati (Vaikunta Dwara Darshan): TTD released comprehensive guidelines for the upcoming ten-day Vaikunta Dwara Darshan starting December 30, confirming that most special darshans and recommendation letters are cancelled.Hyderabad (GHMC Expansion): The Commissioner announced the birth of a "humongous" Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, now featuring 12 zones, 60 circles, and 300 wards.Adilabad (Infrastructure): Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy announced that a survey for the Adilabad-Armoor railway line is underway and plans for a joint-user airport in the district are being fast-tracked.5. Sports and GamesWomen’s Cricket: The "Women in Blue" look to seal the T20I series against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram after a dominant start in Visakhapatnam.Vijay Hazare Trophy: Virat Kohli scored a stroke-filled 77 to lead Delhi to victory over Gujarat, while Andhra secured a six-wicket win over Railways.FIDE World Rapid: 15-year-old Krishna Goutham from Kerala emerged as an unlikely joint leader after three consecutive wins in Doha.Badminton Nationals: Rising star Tanvi Sharma advanced to the pre-quarters of the 87th senior nationals in Vijayawada.6. Cinema & EntertainmentMalayalam Cinema Satirist: Tributes continue for the legendary actor-director Sreenivasan, remembered for his indelible impact on political satire in Mollywood.Kite Festival 2026: CM Revanth Reddy directed the organization of a massive Kite Festival at popular lakes in Hyderabad starting January 11, involving IT professionals and film celebrities.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Kavach System: An indigenous SIL-4 certified anti-collision system for Indian Railways.SEEI Rank: Andhra Pradesh topped the State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2025 with 89.25 points.Atal Smruthi Vanam: A new memorial established in Venkatapalem, Amaravati, featuring a statue of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.Word of the Day: Trounce — To beat severely with a whip or rod; to defeat decisively in a competition.8. Do You Know?Do you know why spicy food causes a runny nose? It's due to Capsaicin, which triggers neurogenic inflammation and stimulates mucus glands to release fluid to "wash away" the irritant.Do you know that nearly 23% of Indian students now have an APAAR ID (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry), which centralizes their academic records from primary school to university?Do you know that 2025 marks the 150th anniversary of India's National Song, Vande Mataram?9. Job Related TopicsISRO Recruitment: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) invited online applications for Research Scientist positions (contract basis) starting December 29.Medical Sector: The alumni of Kurnool Medical College donated ₹150 crore to establish a modern Knowledge Centre to enhance medical infrastructure in the district.Education: The Board of Intermediate Education (BIE) AP is now a recognized awarding body for national vocational certifications in skills like Sericulture.10. Day Special: 27 December🌍 International Day of Epidemic PreparednessTheme 2025: "Stronger Together: Global Resilience through Local Preparedness"Objective: To highlight the critical need for robust health systems and international partnership to prevent and mitigate future epidemics.Key Health Updates:WHO Global Pandemic Treaty: A landmark agreement adopted to ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments during future health crises.Centre of Excellence: The Serum Institute is establishing a premier facility for infectious diseases in Hyderabad.AP Health Push: Andhra Pradesh is integrating digital health records for all citizens under the Ayushman health centres framework.
1. International NewsU.S. Strike in Syria: The U.S. military conducted a massive air operation, striking over 70 Islamic State targets in central Syria using more than 100 munitions.Chilean Presidential Runoff: Hardliner José Antonio Kast secured victory in the presidential election with 58% of the vote, running on a platform of "order, security, and trust".Bangladesh Homecoming: Tarique Rahman, BNP acting chairman and son of former PM Khaleda Zia, returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile in Britain.U.S. Immigration Crackdown: A surge in 'prudential visa revocations' has been reported, transforming a technical measure into a high-stakes risk for international students and skilled workers.Australian Police Probe: Authorities in Melbourne are investigating a suspicious fire where a car celebrating Hanukkah was set ablaze.2. National Current AffairsRailway Fare Hike: The Ministry of Railways officially notified a passenger fare increase effective December 26. Fares increased by 1 paisa per km for ordinary class and 2 paise per km for non-AC and AC classes of mail/express trains.PM at Christmas Service: Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a large congregation at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in New Delhi for Christmas morning service.Atal Canteens: The Delhi government inaugurated 45 Atal Canteens to provide nutritious meals for ₹5 to the urban poor.Rashtra Prerna Sthal: PM Modi inaugurated a memorial in Lucknow featuring 65-foot bronze statues of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Syama Prasad Mookerjee, and Deendayal Upadhyaya.CBI Chargesheet in Patiala Case: The CBI filed a chargesheet against four Punjab Police personnel for the assault on Colonel Pushpinder Bath and his son.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Vajpayee Statue Unveiled: CM Nara Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan unveiled a statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Smruthi Vanam in Venkatapalem, Amaravati.PPP Medical College Row: The tendering process for medical colleges under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model saw a lukewarm response, receiving a bid for only one of the four proposed colleges (Adoni).Water Grid Project: A bhumi puja was performed for the ₹3,050-crore 'Amarajeevi Jaladhaara' water grid project, aimed at providing safe drinking water to 67.82 lakh people in the Godavari region.Excise Reform: CM Naidu directed the Excise Department to eliminate illegal 'belt shops' and suggested studying the Haryana sub-lease system as a potential model.4. District Current AffairsVijayawada (Greater VMC Proposal): Local leaders urged the CM to form a 'Greater Vijayawada Municipal Corporation' by merging 75 surrounding villages from NTR and Krishna districts.Visakhapatnam (Operation LUNGS 2.0): The GVMC began a drive to clear road and footpath encroachments to improve pedestrian safety and traffic flow.Tirupati (Fake Video Alert): The SP clarified that a viral video claiming a lathi charge at Bhudevi Complex was fake and misleading.Narasaraopet (Legal): The Macherla Court extended the remand of the Pinnelli brothers till January 7 in a dual murder case.5. Sports and GamesWomen's T20I (India vs SL): India looks to seal the five-match series in the third T20I at Thiruvananthapuram on Friday.Sansad Khel Mahotsav 2025: The valedictory ceremony of the sports festival was held in Rajamahendravaram, with MP Daggubati Purandeswari presenting prizes to winners.National Sub-Junior Soft Tennis: The AP boys' and girls' teams left for Bhubaneswar to participate in the 19th National Championship starting December 27.Senior National Badminton: Rising stars Parul Choudhary and Tanvi Patri advanced to the women's singles pre-quarters in the championships held in Vijayawada.Golf: Jeev Milkha Singh won his maiden IGPL title in Colombo, defeating Aryan Roopa Anand by one shot.6. CinemaRaj Kumar at Bezwada Bar Assn: Noted film actor Raj Kumar was the chief guest at Christmas celebrations organized by the Bezwada Bar Association.'Sumathi Shatakam' Launch: The teaser for the upcoming Telugu film Sumathi Shatakam, starring Amardeep Choudary, was unveiled by AP Chief Whip GV Anjaneyulu.'Jetlee' First Look: Mythri Movie Makers released the first look of actor Vennela Kishore in the action-comedy film Jetlee, which stars Satya in the lead role.'Welcome to the Jungle': Akshay Kumar announced the wrap-up of his massive ensemble comedy film, slated for a mid-2026 release.7. General Knowledge PointsCapsaicin Effect: Spicy food causes runny noses because capsaicin triggers neurogenic inflammation, stimulating glands to produce fluid to wash away the irritant.Digital Arrest Awareness: Delhi Police launched the "Santa Ki Seekh" campaign using dummy QR codes to teach citizens about the risks of online scams.State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI): Andhra Pradesh achieved the top score of 89.25 points in the 2025 rankings.Word of the Day: Waggish – Witty or joking.8. Do You Know?Do you know that nearly 65% of India's population is currently below 35 years of ageDo you know that the Pragati Maidan Tunnel in Delhi is undergoing a ₹3.7-crore waterproofing project due to persistent sub-soil seepage?Do you know that the Board of Intermediate Education (BIE), AP is the first school board in India to be recognized as a national awarding body by NCVET?9. Job & Educational TopicsMSME Skill Development: The Ministry of MSME announced a 6-month Skill Development Programme starting January 1, 2026, to foster entrepreneurship.Railway Recruitment (Isolated Categories): RRBs invited applications for various posts, including Junior Translator (Hindi) and Chief Law Assistant, with a deadline of January 29, 2026.AP TET-2025: The preliminary answer key for the A.P. Teacher Eligibility Test (Paper-2A) was released for candidate review.IIT Grad Achievement: Manvendra Singh, who suffers from cerebral palsy, secured an All India Rank of 112 in the Engineering Services Exam 202510. Day Special: Veer Baal DiwasSignificance: Observed annually on December 26 to pay tribute to the supreme sacrifice and courage of the four Sahibzadas (sons) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji who attained martyrdom in the 17th century.History: The day commemorates Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, who were martyred at a young age for refusing to renounce their faith.Anniversary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the celebration of this day on January 9, 2022, to honor their unwavering faith and bravery.
Authored by: K Shiva | Website: knowledgegainers.in1. International NewsMassive U.S. Missile Strike in Syria: In a significant escalation, the U.S. military reported striking over 70 Islamic State targets inside central Syria. The operation used more than 100 munitions to cripple ISIS infrastructure.Political Shift in Chile: Conservative hardliner José Antonio Kast secured victory in Chile's presidential runoff with 58% of the vote.U.S. Crackdown on Illegal Stay: U.S. border patrol agents arrested 49 illegal immigrants, including 30 Indian nationals, who were found operating semitrucks with commercial driver's licenses.Tarique Rahman’s Return to Dhaka: After nearly 18 years in exile in the U.K., BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman is scheduled to return to Bangladesh today. The return formally launches the party's campaign for the February 2026 general election.Libyan Air Tragedy: A private jet crashed overnight, killing Libya's army chief of staff and seven others after reporting an electrical fault.2. National Current AffairsISRO’s LVM3 Milestone: ISRO successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, the largest commercial communications satellite, into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). At 6,100 kg, it is the heaviest payload ever launched from Indian soil.Aravalli Mining Ban: The Union Environment Ministry directed Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat to strictly enforce the Supreme Court's order preventing new mining leases in the Aravalli ranges until a management plan is finalized.New National Anti-Terror Policy: The Centre is reportedly finalizing India's first comprehensive anti-terror policy to provide a unified template for States to combat digital radicalizationGood Governance Week: Over 17 lakh public grievances were disposed of across States and UTs during the week-long celebration from December 19 to 25.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)PPP Model for Medical Colleges: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu gave the nod for the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in the construction of government medical colleges to ensure quality healthcare for the poor.Uniform Cinema Ticket Pricing: The State government is preparing a single comprehensive G.O. to regulate cinema ticket prices across AP, ending the practice of issuing separate orders for individual films.Garbage-Free Vision: The government aims to make AP a garbage-free state with the establishment of eight Waste-to-Energy Recycling Plants.Pastor Honorarium: The AP government released ₹150.50 crore as a Christmas gift for 8,418 pastors, covering their monthly honorarium from Dec 2024 to Nov 2025.4. District NewsEast Godavari/Peravali: Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan performed the bhumi puja for the ₹3,050-crore 'Amarajeevi Jaladhaara' water grid project.Vijayawada: Police busted a major child trafficking network, rescuing 11 babies and arresting 15 people.Palakkad (Kerala): An attack on a children's Christmas carol group by an alleged RSS worker sparked widespread protests across the state.West Karbi Anglong (Assam): The Army was deployed to maintain law and order following violent ethnic clashes over tribal grazing lands.5. Sports and GamesRecord-Breaking Hazare Trophy: Virat Kohli became the fastest player to reach 16,000 List A runs, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar. Rohit Sharma matched David Warner’s record of most 150-plus scores in 50-over cricket with a 155-run knock for Mumbai.Youngest Ton: At 14 years and 272 days, Vaibhav Suryavanshi became the youngest to hit a ton in men’s List A cricket during Bihar’s record-breaking 574/6 against Arunachal.U-19 Asia Cup: Pakistan lifted their second title after defeating India by 191 runs in the final in Dubai.Senior National Badminton: Rising shuttlers Unnati Hooda and Tanvi Sharma advanced in the 87th senior nationals held in Vijayawada.6. CinemaUniform Pricing Policy: AP’s new ticket pricing framework will streamline costs across single screens and multiplexes.Sreenivasan Passes Away: The legendary Malayalam actor and satirist Sreenivasan died at 69, leaving a void in political satire cinema.Sundance Selection: The Telugu short film Osey Balamma has been selected for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)LVM3 Rocket: Popularly known as the 'Bahubali' rocket of ISRO.Bureau of Port Security (BoPS): A new statutory body constituted under the Merchant Shipping Act 2025 to oversee the security of ships and port facilities.Kavach System: An indigenous Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) certified anti-collision system for Indian Railways.Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The 10th Prime Minister of India; his birth anniversary (Dec 25) is observed as Good Governance Day.8. Do You Know?Do you know that the BlueBird Block-2 satellite features a 223-square-metre phased array, making it the largest commercial satellite ever deployed in LEO?Do you know that a trafficked child is legally regarded as an "Injured Witness", meaning their testimony is highly valued despite minor inconsistencies?Do you know that 2025 marks the 150th anniversary of the National Song, Vande Mataram?9. Job & Educational TopicsA.P. TET-2025: The preliminary answer key for Paper-2A (Mathematics and Science) has been released; objections are accepted until Dec 29.Subharti University Ph.D. Admissions: Applications are open for various Ph.D. programs for the February 2026 entrance test.NEET-UG 2026: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has released the final syllabus for the 2026-27 academic session.Day Special: 25 December🎄 Christmas & Good Governance DayGood Governance Day: Established in 2014 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee (born Dec 25, 1924).Vajpayee Statue Unveiling: A statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be unveiled in Amaravati on his 101st birth anniversary by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and CM Nara Chandrababu Naidu.Atal Tunnel: A 9.02 km long tunnel in Himachal Pradesh named after the former PM to ensure all-weather connectivity.Atal Setu: India’s longest sea bridge, spanning 21.8 km, connecting Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.
Authored by: K Shiva 1. International NewsSyria Conflict Escalation: Syrian government forces and allied militias are moving into central Syria to fill the power vacuum following massive U.S. strikes on 70 Islamic State targets.U.S. Aid to Sri Lanka: India announced a $450-million "reconstruction package" for Sri Lanka to aid recovery from Cyclone Ditwah, which claimed at least 643 lives.Russia-Ukraine Conflict: A major Russian strike involving over 650 drones and three dozen missiles killed three people and severely crippled the power grid in 13 Ukrainian regions.Bangladesh Mission Protests: Hundreds of VHP and Bajrang Dal activists staged protests outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and Deputy High Commissions in Kolkata and Mumbai, demanding safety for Hindus in Bangladesh.2. National Current AffairsVoter Roll Revision: Approximately 95 lakh names were deleted from the draft electoral rolls in Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Andaman & Nicobar as part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).Anti-Terror Policy: The Union government is finalizing India's first comprehensive anti-terror policy to provide a unified template for all States to combat digital radicalisation and border misuse.Visa Scam Charges: A Delhi court framed charges against Congress MP Karti Chidambaram for allegedly helping 250 Chinese nationals obtain visas in 2011.Economic Milestone: India’s core sector reported a growth of 1.8% for November 2025.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Quantum Technology in Schools: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu announced that students from Classes 7 to 9 will soon have courses in quantum technology and AI to prepare them for the knowledge economy.APSRTC Electric Mobility: CM Naidu directed that all new electric buses, including rural Palle Velugu services, must be air-conditioned.Ayurvedic Surgery Approval: The State government has approved Ayurvedic doctors with PG degrees in surgical studies to perform 39 types of general surgeries.Mission Pothole-Free: The government has set a target to make all State roads pothole-free by the end of January 2026.4. District NewsVijayawada (Trafficking Probe): Following the rescue of 11 babies, police are investigating a corporate-style child trafficking network involving private clinics.Guntur (Anti-Drug Rally): A massive 'Drugs Vaddu Bro' rally was held at Mahatma Gandhi Park to raise awareness among youth about the dangers of narcotics.Visakhapatnam (TCS Operations): IT major TCS is confirmed to begin operations at its Visakhapatnam delivery center in January 2026.Prakasam (Tiger Death): An adult tiger was found dead on NH-565 near Sirigiripadu, reportedly killed by an unidentified vehicle.5. Sports and GamesWomen's T20I (India vs. SL): India took a 2-0 lead in the five-match series with a seven-wicket win in Visakhapatnam. Shafali Verma starred with an unbeaten 69.Global Chess League: Viswanathan Anand and D. Gukesh faced off in a playoff match, marking the 25th anniversary of Anand's first World Title.Cricket Rankings: Deepti Sharma rose to the No. 1 spot in the ICC women's T20I bowling rankings for the first time.Vijay Hazare Trophy: The domestic one-day tournament begins with star players like Virat Kohli (Delhi) and Rohit Sharma (Mumbai) participating for their respective states.6. Cinema & EntertainmentWPL Captaincy: Jemimah Rodrigues has been named the captain of the Delhi Capitals for the fourth edition of the Women's Premier League (WPL).Legal Updates: The Kerala government plans to appeal the acquittal of actor Dileep in the 2017 actor rape case.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Kavach System: An indigenous Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) certified anti-collision system designed by the RDSO to prevent train accidents.DHRUV64: India's first fully indigenous microprocessor developed by C-DAC.Slop: A new 2025 tech term referring to low-quality or unsolicited content generated by AI modelsCore Sector: Refers to the eight industries—Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity.8. Do You Know?Do you know why yawning causes watery eyes? It's because the scrunched facial muscles press on the lacrimal glands, releasing an excess aqueous layer while briefly blocking the drainage duct.Do you know that a trafficked child is legally regarded as an "Injured Witness"? This means their testimony cannot be dismissed merely because of minor inconsistencies caused by trauma.Do you know that 2025 marks the 150th anniversary of India's National Song, Vande Mataram?9. Job & Educational TopicsAP Entrance Tests (CETs): APSCHE released the schedule for 2026-27; ECET starts April 23, followed by ICET on April 28.Vocational Trainers: Recruitment for 42 vocational trainer posts and 2 coordinators is open through Learnet Skills for AP government schools.PhD Admissions: MIT ADT University (Pune) and IIT Ropar have invited applications for their 2026 research programs.Day Special: 24 December🛒 National Consumer Rights DayHistory: Commemorates the day in 1986 when the Consumer Protection Act received Presidential assent.Current Law: The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, which replaced the 1986 version, has been in effect since July 20, 2020.Key Mascot: The Department of Consumer Affairs uses "Jagriti" as its official mascot to empower consumers and generate awareness.Minister: The Ministry of Consumer Affairs is currently headed by Shri Pralhad Joshi.
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International NewsRussian General Assassinated: Major General Valery Trushin was killed in a high-profile car bomb explosion in Moscow. Russian intelligence agencies suspect a "Ukraine link," further escalating the ongoing conflict.Global Maritime Tensions: The U.S. "total blockade" of oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela continues. Russia has officially warned that this maritime pressure could lead to a massive spike in global energy prices.Middle East Security: Following the U.S. strike on 70 ISIS targets in Syria, local militias and state forces are reportedly moving into central regions, complicating the security landscape in the Levant.2. National Current AffairsInfrastructure Growth: India’s core sector output reported a growth of 1.8% for November 2025. While steady, the data shows a contraction in the cement and refinery sectors compared to previous months.Political Accountability: BJP National President J.P. Nadda raised serious allegations regarding the 2013 Jhiram Valley Maoist attack, claiming "Congress insiders" were involved in aiding the ambush.Railway Safety & Fares: The Ministry of Railways confirmed that the fare revision starting December 26 is primarily to fund the rapid rollout of 'Kavach' (Train Collision Avoidance System) across all high-traffic routes.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Excise Reforms: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered a complete crackdown on illegal "belt shops." He specifically asked officials to study the Haryana sub-lease model to ensure a transparent and regulated liquor distribution system.Crime Statistics 2025: Andhra Pradesh recorded a 5.5% decrease in overall crime this year. The police department credited the "Dharma Nyaya Sahayak App" for faster convictions and digital monitoring.Agriculture Push: The government is focusing on Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to help small-scale farmers access international markets directly.4. District & Local NewsVijayawada: Police have intensified the probe into the corporate-style child trafficking racket. They have identified several private clinics involved in the "brokerage" of infants.Tirumala (TTD): The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) introduced a new "AI-based Crowd Monitoring System" to predict rush hours and manage the Sarva Darshan queues more effectively.Visakhapatnam: IT giant TCS has confirmed that its new delivery center will be fully operational by the second week of January 2026.5. Sports and GamesCricket (India vs SL): The Indian women's team looks to seal the T20I series in Visakhapatnam today. All eyes are on Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues following their stellar performances.IPL 2026 Strategy: Following the mini-auction, teams have shifted focus to fitness camps. Cameron Green remains the centerpiece of KKR’s strategy for the upcoming season.6. CinemaMalayalam Cinema: A massive memorial event is planned for the late Sreenivasan. His contributions to political satire are being studied as part of film school curriculums in South India.International Recognition: The Telugu short film Osey Balamma is garnering international buzz ahead of its Sundance screening, highlighting rural struggles in Andhra Pradesh.7. General Knowledge Points (GK Zone)Bio-hacking: A growing 2025 trend pioneered by Bryan Johnson, involving extreme data-driven diets and medical procedures to reverse biological aging.Slop: A new 2025 tech term used to describe low-quality, unsolicited content generated by AI (similar to "SPAM").The 1.5°C Breach: 2025 is officially recorded as one of the warmest years on record, with the global average temperature consistently hovering near the critical 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels.Kavach System: Developed by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), it is an indigenously developed Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL-4) certified system.8. Do You Know?Do you know that a trafficked child is legally classified as an "Injured Witness"? This means their testimony carries high weight in court, and minor inconsistencies in their memory (due to trauma) cannot be used to dismiss the case.Do you know why spicy food causes a runny nose? It’s because of Capsaicin, which triggers "neurogenic inflammation." Your body produces mucus to "wash away" the perceived irritant from your nasal membranes.Do you know that 2025 marks the 150th anniversary of India's National Song, Vande Mataram? It was written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875.9. Any Job Related TopicsAndhra Pradesh Skill Census: Starting January 2026, the state will conduct the first-ever AI-driven census to map the skills of the unemployed youth to facilitate direct placements.Excise Department: New recruitment for Excise Constables (approx. 2,000 posts) is expected to be notified soon to support the new anti-belt shop enforcement wings.PES University Admissions: Registrations for the 2026 academic year for Engineering and Management streams are closing by the end of December.Day Special: 23 December👩🌾 National Farmer's Day (Kisan Diwas)Theme 2025: "Vikasit Bharat 2047 – The Role of FPOs in Globalising Indian Agriculture"Why today? To commemorate the 123rd birth anniversary of Choudhary Charan Singh, the 5th PM of India and a legendary peasant leader.Empowerment Tools:Kapas Kisan App: A new digital tool launched to help cotton farmers get real-time market prices.Rythanna Meekosam: AP's flagship scheme to integrate farmers with global FPOs.UN Proclamation: The United Nations has officially declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Autor: K Shiva1. International NewsSyria Retaliation (Operation Hawkeye Strike): In a major military response to the killing of two American soldiers, U.S. forces struck over 70 Islamic State targets in central Syria. The operation involved fighter jets and attack helicopters firing over 100 munitions.Trump Signs NDAA 2026: U.S. President Donald Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which specifically calls for the alignment of India’s domestic nuclear liability rules with international norms.U.S. Blockade on Venezuela: U.S. forces stopped a second oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela in two weeks as part of a "total blockade" against the Maduro government.Chile’s Presidential Election: José Antonio Kast won the presidential runoff with 58% of the vote, promising a platform of "order and security".Unrest in Bangladesh: India is keeping a "close watch" on the evolving situation following the lynching of a Hindu youth in Mymensingh, while dismissng Dhaka's claims of threats to its diplomats in India.2. National Current AffairsPresidential Assent for Rural Jobs Bill: President Droupadi Murmu gave assent to the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, which officially replaces MGNREGA.Railways Fare Hike: The Indian Railways announced a fare increase effective December 26, aimed at mobilising ₹600 crore. Fares will rise by one paisa per km for ordinary class and two paise for AC classes.Nuclear Reform Approval: President Murmu also granted assent to the SHANTI Bill, 2025, which opens the civil nuclear sector to private participation and eases liability norms.Supreme Court Pendency Drive: In a break from tradition, CJI Surya Kant called for a Special Vacation Sitting on Monday to hear urgent matters and reduce the court's 90,000-case backlog.Aravalli Protection: The Centre rejected claims that a new definition of the Aravalli range would allow large-scale mining, asserting that 90% of the region remains protected under a Supreme Court-approved framework.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Plastic & Garbage Free Mission: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu set a target to make the State garbage-free by Jan 26, 2026, and plastic-free by June 2026.Water Grid Project Bhumi Puja: Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan performed the bhumi puja for the ₹3,050-crore 'Amarajeevi Jaladhaara' water grid project in Peravali, intending to provide drinking water to 67 lakh people.IT Ecosystem Expansion: IT major TCS is likely to commence operations at its delivery centre in Visakhapatnam in January 2026 with an initial workforce of 2,000.BIE Milestone: The Board of Intermediate Education, AP, became the first school board in India recognized as a national awarding body for vocational skills.4. District NewsVijayawada (Child Trafficking): Police busted a major child trafficking network, rescuing 11 babies and arresting 15 traffickers, including the alleged kingpin Balagam Sarojini.Visakhapatnam (PESA Mahotsav): A two-day national tribal festival, 'PESA Mahotsav', is set to begin in the city to celebrate tribal cultural heritage.Eluru (Police Convictions): Police secured convictions for 51 accused in 41 cases through the Dharma Nyaya Sahayak App.Tirupati (Safety Tech): TTD donated 20 hand-held breath analysers to the district police to curb drunken driving among pilgrims.5. Sports and GamesU-19 Asia Cup: Pakistan defeated India by 191 runs in the final held in Dubai, lifting their second title.Women’s T20I (India vs SL): India defeated Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the series opener at Visakhapatnam. Jemimah Rodrigues scored a match-winning 69*.Cricket Milestone: Smriti Mandhana became the first Indian woman to reach 4,000 runs in T20Is.T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan has returned to the Indian squad for the upcoming World Cup, while Shubman Gill was notably dropped.6. CinemaMalayalam Satirist Passes Away: Renowned actor-director Sreenivasan (69), known for his piercing political satire and films like Sandesham, passed away.Sundance Selection: The Telugu short film Osey Balamma has been officially selected for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.Oscar Campaign: Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound made it to the 98th Academy Awards shortlist for Best International Feature Film.7. General Knowledge PointsDHRUV64 Chip: India’s first fully indigenous microprocessor developed by C-DAC.Capsaicin & Runny Noses: Spicy food causes the nose to run because capsaicin triggers neurogenic inflammation, stimulating mucus glands to wash away the irritant.Word of the Day: Trounce – To beat severely with a whip or rod; to defeat decisively in a competition.8. Do You Know?Thorium-229 Clock: Researchers are developing a nuclear clock using Thorium-229, which would be significantly more precise than current atomic clocks.Child Trafficking "Injured Witness": The Supreme Court ruled that a trafficked child must be treated as an "injured witness," and their testimony shouldn't be dismissed for minor inconsistencies.9. Job-Related TopicsSkill Development: The APSSDC is conducting IndiaSkills 2025-26 competitions across 48 trades to select youth for the WorldSkills competition in Shanghai.Admissions Notice: PES University and Tribhuvan Sahkari University (IRMA) have opened registrations for the 2026 academic sessions.10. Day Special: 22 December📐 National Mathematics DayHistorical Significance: Celebrated to commemorate the 138th birth anniversary of ace mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, born in 1887.2025 Award Highlights:Abel Prize: Won by Masaki Kashiwara.ICTP Ramanujan Prize: Awarded to Claudio Muñoz (Chile) for work on dispersive PDEs.SASTRA Ramanujan Prize: Won by Dr. Alexander Smith.Fact: The International Day of Mathematics is observed on 14 March.
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International NewsSyria Retaliation (Operation Hawkeye Strike): In a massive military response to the killing of two American soldiers, the U.S. military struck over 70 Islamic State targets inside central Syria. Supported by Jordanian forces, the operation involved fighter jets and attack helicopters firing over 100 munitions.Trump Signs NDAA 2026: U.S. President Donald Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which specifically urges the alignment of India’s domestic nuclear liability rules with international norms. This is the first time in a decade such a specific mention has appeared in the Act.Chile’s Presidential Election: Hardliner José Antonio Kast won the presidential runoff with 58% of the vote. A Pinochet admirer, his platform focused on "order, security, and trust," promising border walls and military deployment to high-crime areas.Bangladesh Unrest: Dhaka remains on edge following the funeral of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent youth leader shot on December 12. Protesters have demanded the resignation of the Home Affairs Adviser and warn that the violence could derail the February 2026 polls.Imran Khan Sentenced: A Pakistani accountability court sentenced former PM Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to 17 years imprisonment each in the Toshakhana 2 corruption case regarding state gifts.Jeffrey Epstein Probe: The U.S. Justice Department released thousands of files from the Epstein sex trafficking probe. While including candid snapshots of Bill Clinton, the dump contained almost no new material related to President Trump.2. National Current AffairsNuclear Reform Debate: Opposition leaders criticized the SHANTI Bill, labeling it "vendor-driven" and alleging it was "bulldozed" through Parliament to appease international suppliers by removing supplier liability clauses.Supreme Court Pendency Drive: Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi scheduled a special vacation sitting for Monday to hear urgent matters, breaking the traditional Christmas/New Year recess to tackle the court's 90,000-case pendency.Elephant Tragedy in Assam: The Mizoram-New Delhi Rajdhani Express collided with a herd in central Assam’s Hojai district, killing seven wild elephants and critically injuring a calf.Republic Day Guest: EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa are confirmed as chief guests for Republic Day 2026, which will feature a "Vande Mataram" theme marking the song's 150th anniversary.Agniveer Quota: The Union Home Ministry clarified that the new 50% reservation for ex-Agniveers in CAPF Group C posts will not disrupt the existing SC/ST/OBC reservation matrix.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Plastic & Garbage Free Targets: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu set a deadline to make the state garbage-free by January 26, 2026, and plastic-free by June 2026.Building Rules Amendment: The government notified a comprehensive overhaul of A.P. Building Rules, 2017. Key changes include a 72-hour clearance cell for high-rise projects (24m and above) and mandatory energy-efficient standards.Energy Role Model: Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand declared AP a national role model in energy efficiency, having adopted a structured approach since 2015.4. District NewsEast Godavari (Water Project): Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan performed the bhumi puja for the ₹13,050-crore 'Amarajeevi Jaladhaara' water grid project, designed to provide safe drinking water to 67 lakh people.Visakhapatnam (Air Quality): A task force was formed to address the city’s air quality, which has recently slipped to "poor".Chittoor (Elephant Conflict): Reports indicate human-elephant conflict is abating following the deployment of trained kumki elephants from Karnataka at a new camp in Musallamadugu.Narasaraopet (Auction): Canara Bank issued an e-auction notice for a residential building in Issappalem Gram Panchayath.5. Sports and GamesT20 World Cup Squad: Ishan Kishan returns to the Indian squad for the 2026 T20 WC following consistent domestic performance; Shubman Gill and Jitesh Sharma were notably dropped.World Tennis League: Dhakshineswar Suresh steered the Aussie Mavericks Kites to the title by defeating Sumit Nagal's AGS Eagles in a tense final.BWF World Tour Finals: The Indian pair Satwik-Chirag bowed out in the semifinals after a loss to China in Hangzhou.Global Chess League: Triveni Continental Kings remain at the top of the table after prodigy Marc’Andria Maurizzi won a crucial battle against Volodar Murzin.6. CinemaMalayalam Satirist Passes Away: Evergreen actor-director Sreenivasan (69), renowned for his piercing political satire and films like Sandesham, passed away in Kerala.Sundance Selection: The Telugu short film Osey Balamma, directed by Raman Nimmala, has been officially selected for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, marking a historic first for the Telugu industry.Academy Shortlist: Filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound made it to the 98th Academy Awards shortlist in the Best International Feature Film category.7. General Knowledge PointsCapsaicin & Runny Noses: Spicy food causes the nose to run because capsaicin triggers neurogenic inflammation, causing blood vessels to relax and mucus glands to release watery fluids to wash away the irritant.Thorium-229 Clock: Scientists are developing a nuclear clock using the nucleus of Thorium-229, which is expected to be precise within one second every 15.8 billion years.Word of the Day: Trounce – To beat severely with a whip or rod; to defeat decisively in a competition.8. Job & Education TopicsPES University Admissions: Registration is open for 2026 for various streams including Engineering, Medicine, and Law.BIE AP Milestone: The Board of Intermediate Education, AP, is now a nationally recognized awarding body for vocational skills like Sericulture Technician.Job Mela/Recruitment: The Indian Institute of Plantation Management released admission notifications for PG programs in Agribusiness.9. Day Special: 21 December🌗 Winter Solstice DayAstronomical Event: Marks the moment when one of Earth's poles is at its maximum tilt away from the Sun (23.4°).Shortest Day: In the Northern Hemisphere, the Sun travels its shortest path, resulting in the longest night and least daylight.Science: During the winter solstice in the North, vertical noon rays are directly overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn (23°27′ S).Kepler's Laws: This seasonal change is a practical manifestation of Kepler's laws of planetary motion, which dictate how planets move in elliptical orbits around the Sun.
Autor: KShiva1. International HighlightCyclone Ditwah (Sri Lanka): The cyclone has claimed 643 lives, with the highest death toll in Kandy. The disaster has severely impacted Malaiyaha Tamil estate workers and displaced thousands.Bangladesh Unrest: Violent protests followed the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Offices of major newspapers (Prothom Alo and The Daily Star) were torched.2. National Current AffairsMass Voter Roll Revision: The Election Commission of India (ECI) published draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. A staggering 97.3 lakh voters in Tamil Nadu (15% of electors) and 73.7 lakh in Gujarat (14.5%) were deleted due to shifting, deaths, or duplicate entries.Reservation for Agniveers: The Union Home Ministry has decided to enhance the reservation for ex-Agniveers in Group C posts of CAPFs (Central Armed Police Forces) from 10% to 50%. This includes a specific 50% quota for constable posts in the Border Security Force (BSF).Parliament Winter Session: The session concluded with high productivity (111% in Lok Sabha, 121% in Rajya Sabha). Key bills passed include the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), which replaces the UPA-era MGNREGA.Bureau of Port Security (BoPS): The Centre is establishing a dedicated statutory body, BoPS, modeled after the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, to oversee the security of ships and port facilities.SC on Corporate Responsibility: The Supreme Court ruled that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) must include "environmental responsibility," specifically directing funds toward protecting endangered species like the Great Indian Bustard.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Central Assistance Pursuit: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu met Union Ministers in Delhi to seek support for various projects, including ₹10,054 crore under SASCI, funds for the Rayalaseema horticulture hub, and the Polavaram project.Investment Momentum: The AP Cabinet officially designated Amaravati as the State's capital. Major investment pledges include $15 billion from Google for an AI hub in Visakhapatnam and ₹1 lakh crore from the Adani Group.Intermediate Exam Schedule: The Board of Intermediate Education released the revised timetable for February 2026. First-year exams start February 23; second-year exams start February 24.4. District Current AffairsVijayawada/NTR: A three-day passport mela for journalists concluded. Maris Stella College organized a mega job mela with 1,000 registrations.Anantapur: The district police won the ABCD (Best Crime Detection) Award for cracking an international cybercrime racket involving fake mobile apps and cryptocurrency.Chittoor: Fear gripped villages in Tavanampalle and Irala mandals due to unidentified wild animals (suspected leopards) killing cattle at night.Visakhapatnam: A 15-foot whale shark washed ashore dead on Yarada Beach.5. Sports and GamesCricket (India vs. SA): India won the T20I series 3-1. Hardik Pandya became the 5th Indian to complete 2,000 T20I runs, while Tilak Varma became the Indian with the most T20I runs against South Africa (496 runs).U-19 Asia Cup: India crushed Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the semi-final to set up a summit clash with arch-rival Pakistan.Badminton: The duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty became the first Indian men's pair to reach the semifinals of the BWF World Tour Finals.6. Cinema and ArtsIFFK Awards: At the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala, Japanese film Two Seasons, Two Strangers won the Golden Crow Pheasant for Best Film.Best Director: Argentine filmmakers Carina Piazza and Lucia Bracelis won the Silver Crow Pheasant for their film Before the Body.7. General Knowledge PointsTARANG: The beta version of a national web portal being developed by the Tribal Affairs Ministry to digitize Forest Rights Act (FRA) processes.Vande Mataram Anniversary: Parliament held a special debate to mark 150 years of the National Song.LVM3-M6 Mission: ISRO is scheduled to launch the Blue Bird communications satellite (6,500 kg) for U.S.-based AST SpaceMobile on December 24.8. Do You Know?Child Trafficking Testimony: The Supreme Court ruled that a trafficked child must be treated as an "injured witness," and their testimony should not be dismissed over minor inconsistencies.Agniveer Age Relaxation: Age criteria for Agniveers absorbing into BSF constable (tradesmen) ranks has been relaxed from 30 to 35 years.9. Job and Educational NewsMega Job Mela: Conducted at Maris Stella College, Vijayawada, featuring recruiters from pharma, banking, aviation, and manufacturing sectors.Space Labs: IN-SPACe (Department of Space) is inviting proposals to establish Antariksh Prayogshala (Space Labs) in academic institutions across seven zones in India.
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International NewsIndia-Oman Trade Pact: India and Oman signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Oman will provide India duty-free access to 98.08% of its tariff lines, covering 99.38% of India's exports.US Arms to Taiwan: The U.S. announced a massive $10 billion arms package for Taiwan, including medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones. China responded angrily, stating the move undermines regional stability.Indians in Russian Forces: The MEA informed the Rajya Sabha that 202 Indians are believed to have been recruited into the Russian armed forces since 2022; 26 have lost their lives.Venezuela Blockade: U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a "total and complete blockade" of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela. Russia urged the U.S. not to make a "fatal mistake".Thai-Cambodian Conflict: Thai jets bombed a building in a Cambodian casino hub, injuring two civilians. The renewed fighting has displaced over 8 lakh people.2. National Current AffairsRural Jobs Bill Passed: The Lok Sabha passed the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Roozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, which replaces the 20-year-old MGNREGA. The move was met with loud protests from Opposition MPs.Nuclear Sector Reform: The Rajya Sabha cleared the SHANTI Bill, 2025. It aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence and increase the capacity of India's atomic energy sector.Operation Sindoor: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Air Force's performance during Operation Sindoor, calling it a strategic instrument of "speed, surprise, and shock".Voter Roll Revision: The Supreme Court asked the Election Commission to take a "sympathetic view" to petitions seeking extensions for voter enumeration in states like Uttar Pradesh and Kerala.RRB Branding: The Finance Ministry unveiled a new logo for Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) to establish a unified brand identity following the consolidation of 26 banks.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Population Management Policy: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu announced that a new Population Management Policy will be introduced by Ugadi.Pulses Procurement: The Centre approved the procurement of tur (red gram), moong (green gram), and urad (black gram) in A.P. under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) for the 2025-26 season.Medical College Dispute: YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy lodged a complaint with the Governor against the PPP model for medical colleges, alleging it is a "privatisation attempt".Collector Conference: CM Naidu concluded the conference by asserting that public satisfaction is the true measure of official performance.4. District & Local NewsVijayawada (Trafficking): Task Force police busted a child trafficking racket, rescuing five babies and arresting ten people. The gang purchased babies for ₹1 lakh and planned to sell them for ₹25 lakh.Tirupati (Oberoi Project): The Tourism Minister rebutted YSRCP charges, clarifying that suitable land for the Oberoi project was identified 500 metres opposite the earlier site to address public sentiment.Kadapa (Murder Case): A police dog named Sonu helped solve a murder case by trailing the accused, leading to their rapid arrest.Prakasam (Innovation): A farmer developed a cost-effective "cycle weeder" for just ₹1,000 using an old bicycle.5. Sports and GamesSyed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Jharkhand clinched its maiden title with a 69-run victory over Haryana. Skipper Ishan Kishan scored a 49-ball century.IPL Auction: Cameron Green became the costliest overseas buy at ₹25.20 crore (KKR). Uncapped players Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma were bagged by CSK for ₹14.20 crore each.Shooting: Ketan Malik won the women’s 10m air pistol national gold, finishing ahead of Manu Bhaker.Cricket (India vs. SA): The fifth and final T20I in Ahmedabad serves as a series decider.6. Cinema & EntertainmentRegena Cassandra: The actor reflects on her 20-year journey in films, starting from her debut in Kanda Naal Mudhal.Cine Tourism: The crew of the iconic film Bombay will reunite at Bekal Fort, Kerala, on December 20 for its 30th anniversary.Dhurandhar Controversy: The film Dhurandhar, starring Ranveer Singh, is sparking debates about "government-embedded filmmaking".7. General Knowledge PointsDHRUV64 Chip: India's first fully indigenous microprocessor developed by C-DAC.Statue of Unity Sculptor: Legendary sculptor Ram V. Sutar passed away at the age of 100.Word of the Day: Ostracise – To expel from a community or group; to avoid speaking to or dealing with.Beatific: Experiencing or bestowing celestial joy.8. Do You Know?Indie Calendar 2026: A new pet calendar titled Awaara nahi, humara hain features 12 stories of those who care for streeties.Diabetes Projection: Nearly 900 million people are projected to have diabetes by 2050.ANR College: Actor Nagarjuna Akkineni announced a ₹2 crore scholarship fund for ANR College in Gudivada.9. Job TopicsAndhra Pradesh Skills: CM Naidu reiterated a commitment to provide 20 lakh jobs.UP NEET UG: Special stray vacancy round registration dates announced (Dec 19–22).Vocational Trainers: AIECT is recruiting vocational trainers for various sectors; applications close Dec 24.10. Day Special: 19 December🏖 Goa Liberation DayOccasion: Marks the day in 1961 when Indian armed forces freed Goa from 450 years of Portuguese rule.History: The Portuguese colonized parts of India in 1510. Negotiations failed after India's independence in 1947, leading PM Jawaharlal Nehru to order military intervention (Operation Vijay).Goa Highlights: Palolem Beach in Canacona is ranked among Asia's best beaches.
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International NewsBlockade on Venezuela: U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a "total and complete blockade" of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, labeling the Maduro government a "foreign terrorist organization".India-Bangladesh Tensions: India summoned the Bangladesh High Commissioner to ensure the safety of Indian missions in Dhaka following protests by radical groups alleging Indian interference in Bangladeshi politics.Sydney Attack Update: Australian police identified an Indian citizen from Hyderabad, Sajid Akram, and his son as the gunmen behind the Bondi Beach massacre that killed 15 people.Thai-Cambodian Conflict: Tensions remains high as Thailand demands a ceasefire "first" from Cambodia, following clashes that have displaced 8 lakh people.Ethiopia Honors PM Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with "The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia," the country's highest award.2. National Current AffairsNuclear Energy Bill: The Lok Sabha passed the SHANTI Bill, 2025, which allows private sector participation in nuclear power production and removes certain liability clauses for equipment suppliers.Insurance Sector FDI: The Rajya Sabha passed a Bill allowing 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the insurance sector, up from the previous 74%.MGNREGA Replacement: The government introduced the VB-G RAM (G) Bill to replace MGNREGA with the "Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission," drawing protests over reduced central funding.Uttarakhand UCC: The Governor returned the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and religious conversion amendment Bills to the State government, citing technical and grammatical flaws.Voter List Revision: The Election Commission reported the deletion of 58 lakh names in West Bengal and 42 lakh in Rajasthan as part of a Special Intensive Revision (SIR).3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Collectors' Conference: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated a two-day conference, urging officials to adopt best practices to achieve a 17.11% growth rate for the State.Amaravati Growth SPV: The government appointed retired IAS officer Sonti Venkata Ratna Srinivas as the Managing Director of the newly formed Amaravati Growth and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (AGICL).Aviation Hub: Plans for India’s first Aviation, Aerospace, and Defence (AAD) EduCity near Bhogapuram were announced to be developed within one year.Police Stipend Hike: The monthly stipend for police constables in training has been increased from ₹4,500 to ₹12,500.4. District & Local NewsTirupati (TTD): TTD is embroiled in a fresh controversy after the YSRCP alleged that 20 acres of land at Alipiri was improperly allocated to the Oberoi Group for a private resort.Tirupati International Township: Della Townships and the State government signed an MoU to develop the 1,400-acre "Vasudev Kutumbakam" international township.Vijayawada (Temple Services): Online services for darshan tickets, seva bookings, and donations will soon be introduced at the Kanaka Durga Temple.Krishna District (Seizure): Police seized 112 kg of ganja worth ₹15.6 lakh near Gannavaram and arrested a Pune-based resident.5. Sports and GamesCricket Rankings: Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy extended his lead at the top of the ICC Men's T20I bowling rankings with a career-high rating of 818.IPL Auction: Cameron Green became the costliest overseas player in the mini-auction, bought by KKR for ₹25.20 croreIndia vs SA (T20I): The fourth T20I in Lucknow was abandoned due to excessive fog and poor air quality.Global Chess League: Koneru Humpy and D. Harika powered upGrad Mumba Masters to a major win over PBG Alaskan Knights.6. Cinema & ArtsBiopic on Dr. Kalam: It was announced that a biopic titled Kalam: The Missile Man of India is in development, with the lead actor recently cast.Saree Exports: Archives reveal that India’s saree exports were worth ₹7.5 crore fifty years ago (1975), with cotton sarees being the primary export.7. General Knowledge PointsAravalli Range Significance: As India’s oldest mountain range, the Aravallis serve as an ecological barrier preventing the desertification of the Indo-Gangetic plains.Kavach Safety System: The indigenous anti-collision system has been fully commissioned on over 2,000 km of the Indian rail network.Word of the Day: Trounce – To beat severely or defeat decisively in a competition.8. Do You Know?Missing Students: Government data shows that 5,149 schools across India have zero students enrolled, with 70% of these in Telangana and West Bengal.Wisdom Teeth: These are considered evolutionary relics (vestigial structures) from ancestors who required extra grinding surfaces for a grittier diet.9. Job & Educational TopicsDelhi Police Vacancies: Over 10% of Delhi Police posts (9,248) are currently vacant, with the highest vacancy rate in the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police.Aviation Training: The new AAD EduCity in Bhogapuram aims to provide specialized training for pilots and aircraft maintenance engineers.10.Day Special: 18 December🚛 International Migrants DayTheme 2025: "My Great Story: Cultures and Development."Objective: To honor immigrants and raise awareness regarding the challenges they face globally.Historical Context: Proclaimed by the UN on December 4, 2000, to mark the anniversary of the 1990 adoption of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.Definitions: * Migrant: Someone moving voluntarily for better opportunities (work, education, family).Refugee: Someone forced to flee due to conflict or persecution.
The Indian Railways has recently reiterated its guidelines regarding passenger luggage to ensure safety, minimize coach congestion, and streamline operations. Following a clarification by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.1. Free Allowance vs. Maximum Permissible LimitEvery passenger is entitled to a specific amount of Free Allowance based on their ticket class. However, there is a Maximum Limit (including the free allowance) beyond which luggage cannot be carried inside the compartment.Travel ClassFree Allowance (Weight)Maximum Permissible LimitAC First Class70 kg150 kgFirst Class / AC 2-Tier50 kg100 kgAC 3-Tier / AC Chair Car40 kg40 kg (No excess allowed in coach)Sleeper Class40 kg80 kgSecond Class35 kg70 kgNote: For AC 3-Tier and Chair Car, the free allowance and maximum limit are the same. Any luggage exceeding 40 kg must be booked in the van.2. Dimensions and Size RestrictionsTo maintain space for all passengers, personal luggage (trunks, suitcases, or boxes) must adhere to specific dimensions to be kept inside the coach:Standard Size: Must not exceed 100 CM X 60 CM X 25 CM (L X B X H).Oversized Items: If any dimension exceeds these limits, the item must be booked and transported in the Brake Van (SLR) or Parcel Van, even if it is within the weight limit.3. Charges for Excess LuggageIf your luggage exceeds the free allowance but stays within the maximum permissible limit:Fee: You must pay 1.5 times the normal luggage rate.Requirement: Charges must be paid and the luggage booked before boarding.4. Prohibited Items and RestrictionsCommercial Goods: Items meant for trade or merchandise are strictly prohibited as personal luggage.Brake Van Booking: Luggage exceeding the maximum limit allowed in the coach must be booked in the brake van, subject to space availability.5. Why These Rules MatterSafety & Comfort: Prevents blocking of aisles and emergency exits.Overcrowding: Ensures that every passenger has enough room for their allotted space.Efficiency: Promotes disciplined travel and uniform handling across all zones.ConclusionAdhering to these norms ensures a hassle-free journey for you and your fellow passengers. Always weigh and measure your baggage before heading to the station to avoid last-minute penalties.Author:K Shiva
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International NewsBondi Beach Attack Update: Australian and Indian officials confirmed that Sajid Akram, one of the two shooters behind the Sydney massacre, was an Indian citizen from Hyderabad. He migrated on a student visa in 1998 and married a European woman. Preliminary probes suggest his radicalization had no local links in India.Gaza Peace Plan Support: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during his visit to Tel Aviv, expressed India's support for the Gaza peace plan proposed by U.S. President Trump.Ethiopia's Highest Award: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with "The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia" by his counterpart Abiy Ahmed Ali. Both nations elevated their ties to a strategic partnership.Thailand-Cambodia Conflict: Thailand demanded that Cambodia announce a ceasefire "first," accusing them of being the aggressor in the reignited border conflict that has displaced 8 lakh people.Trump Sues BBC: U.S. President Donald Trump filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the BBC, alleging defamation and malicious editing of his January 6, 2021, speech.2. National Current AffairsMGNREGA Replacement Bill: The Centre introduced the VB-G RAM (G) Bill, 2025, which aims to replace MGNREGA with the "Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission". The move faced massive protests as it reduces the Centre's funding share from 90% to 60%.Nuclear Sector Reform: The government introduced the SHANTI Bill to allow domestic private capital to build and operate civil nuclear facilities, aiming for 100 GW capacity by 2047.Infiltration Data: The MHA informed the Lok Sabha that 878 infiltrators were caught along the India-Myanmar border in the last two years. Around 79% of the India-Bangladesh border is now fenced.Draft Voter Lists: The Election Commission published draft rolls for five States/UTs. A staggering 58 lakh names were removed in West Bengal and 42 lakh in Rajasthan.Insurance Reform: The Lok Sabha passed a Bill to increase FDI in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Aviation EduCity: IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh announced that India’s first integrated Aviation, Aerospace, and Defence (AAD) EduCity will come up near Bhogapuram within one year.Police Stipend Hike: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu announced a hike in the monthly stipend for police constables in training from ₹4,500 to ₹12,500.MGNREGA Funds: The Centre released ₹1,988 crore to A.P. specifically for MGNREGA wage payments.Public Health Vision: The government is implementing the Sanjeevani Project to create digital health records for all citizens.4. District & Local NewsTirupati (TTD): The TTD board approved a 20-acre integrated township in Tirupati to ease pilgrim movement. It also cleared a ₹214 crore project for a Balaji temple in Mumbai's Bandra.NTR District (Fraud): Police are searching for the CEO of 'Life is Beautiful' firm, Shivani, for allegedly duping thousands of people of ₹20 crore.Vijayawada (APSRTC): The corporation is scaling up its WhatsApp-based ticket booking (95523 00009) to increase usage.Kadapa: Police arrested a person for making derogatory social media posts against female legislators and ruling party members.5. Sports and GamesIPL Mini-Auction: Cameron Green became the costliest overseas buy (KKR) at ₹25.20 crore. Uncapped players Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma fetched a record ₹14.20 crore each from CSK.Cricket Rankings: Smriti Mandhana regained the world No. 1 position in the latest ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings.Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Andhra defeated Jharkhand by nine runs, but Jharkhand still reached its maiden final.Shooting: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar set a world record (470.5) to win gold in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions.6. Cinema & ArtsIFFK Controversy: The Kerala government decided to screen all 19 movies initially barred by the Centre’s I&B Ministry, including Palestinian films.A.R. Rahman: Inaugurated the 99th annual conference of the Music Academy in Chennai.7. General Knowledge PointsDigital Arrest Fraud: The Supreme Court expressed shock as data revealed that ₹13,000 crore has been siphoned off by digital arrest scammers in India.Rupee Value: The Indian Rupee hit a historic low, breaching the 91-mark against the U.S. dollar.Inhalable Microplastics: A study in Environment International identified a new risk in Indian cities—plastic particles smaller than 10 micrometres that carry harmful fungi.8. Do You Know?Param Vir Dirgha: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a gallery at Rashtrapati Bhavan featuring portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees, replacing portraits of British officers.Wisdom Teeth: They are third molars—an evolutionary relic from ancestors who needed extra grinding surface for grittier diets like fibrous roots.9. Job & Educational TopicsAPRCET Results: 2,859 candidates qualified for the Andhra Pradesh Research Common Entrance Test for Ph.D. admissions.IFFCO Jobs: The development of IFFCO Kisan SEZ in Nellore is expected to provide 30,000 direct jobs.WAISE Initiative: EY and Nirmaan Organisation are training 8,000 underserved women in AI skills.Day Special: 17 December🔞 International Day to End Violence Against Sex WorkersBackground: First observed in 2003, this day empowers workers worldwide to organize against discrimination and remember victims of violence.Mission Kushal Karmi: A Delhi government scheme launched to improve the skills of construction workers.eShram - One Stop Solution: Launched by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya to facilitate welfare for unorganized workers.Note: International Sex Workers Day is observed on June 2; Workers’ Memorial Day is April 28.
1. Introduction and ContextThe Rajya Sabha passed the landmark “Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025” on December 17, 2025, following its approval by the Lok Sabha on December 16. This legislation represents one of the most significant financial reforms in India's history, aimed at achieving the vision of “Insurance for All by 2047.”By amending the Insurance Act (1938), the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) Act (1956), and the IRDA Act (1999), the government has fully opened the doors to global capital to improve insurance penetration, which stood at a modest 4% in 2022-23 and slightly dipped to 3.7% in 2023-24.2. Key Provisions of the BillA. 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)The Shift: The FDI limit in the insurance sector has been hiked from 74% to 100%.Operational Freedom: Foreign companies can now set up wholly-owned subsidiaries in India without the mandatory requirement of finding an Indian joint venture partner.Safeguard: Despite 100% ownership, the Bill mandates that at least one top executive (Chairperson, MD, or CEO) must be an Indian citizen.B. Structural and Capital ReformsMergers and Acquisitions: The Bill permits the merger of non-insurance companies with insurance firms, providing significant operational flexibility and easier exit/entry routes for investors.Reduced Capital Entry Barrier: For foreign re-insurers, the Net Owned Fund (NOF) requirement has been slashed from ₹5,000 crore to ₹1,000 crore. This is expected to attract smaller, specialized global players.Cooperative Models: The minimum paid-up capital requirement of ₹100 crore for insurance cooperative societies (life, general, or health) has been removed to encourage community-based insurance models.C. Regulatory and Governance EnhancementsEmpowered IRDAI: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has been granted SEBI-like powers, including the authority to order disgorgement of unlawful gains and oversee the remuneration/commissions of agents.Leadership Tenure: The age cap for IRDAI whole-time members has been increased from 62 to 65 years, aligning it with the Chairperson’s retirement age.One-Time Registration: Intermediaries will now benefit from a one-time registration process instead of periodic renewals, improving the Ease of Doing Business.D. Data Protection and Policyholder InterestsDigital Compliance: Companies must strictly adhere to the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act. Stricter KYC and data-safeguarding norms are now mandatory.Protection Fund: The Bill establishes a Policyholders’ Education and Protection Fund to safeguard consumer interests and improve financial literacy regarding insurance.3. The Government’s Defense (Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman)The Finance Minister emphasized that these reforms are not an "afterthought" but the result of two years of structured consultation with 13,000+ stakeholders. Key points included:Employment: Since raising FDI to 74%, jobs in the sector tripled from 30.14 lakh (2014-15) to 88.17 lakh (2024-25). 100% FDI is expected to further boost formal employment.Lower Premiums: Increased competition among more players will naturally lead to a drop in premium rates for the common man.Retention of Funds: She clarified that while ownership may be foreign, premiums collected from Indian customers must stay in India to meet solvency requirements (1.5 ratio).Empowering LIC: The Minister highlighted that LIC’s AUM grew to ₹54.52 lakh crore in 2024-25, and the Bill actually empowers LIC to manage overseas operations and zonal offices more efficiently.4. Opposition Concerns and ObjectionsThe Opposition, including members from Congress, TMC, and DMK, raised several critical points:Data Privacy: Congress MP Shaktisinh Gohil expressed fear over sensitive data (Aadhaar, PAN) falling into foreign hands, potentially leading to digital fraud.Economic Sovereignty: DMK MP Kanimozhi NVN Somu termed the move "daylight robbery," arguing that a market worth $600 billion is being handed to foreign investors, potentially weakening domestic PSUs.Select Committee Demand: Opposition parties demanded the Bill be sent to a Select Committee for deeper scrutiny, which the government rejected.Naming Objection: Several members objected to the Hindi nomenclature (Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha) in a central legislation.5. Concurrent Reform: Repeal of 71 Obsolete LawsAlongside the Insurance Bill, the Rajya Sabha passed the Repealing and Amending Bill, 2025.Total Repeals: 71 outdated laws (e.g., Indian Tramways Act, 1886 and Levy Sugar Price Equalisation Fund Act, 1976) were scrapped.Objective: To remove the "colonial mindset," correct drafting errors, and enhance the Ease of Living.6. Importance for Competitive ExamsGoal: "Insurance for All by 2047."FDI Limit: Increased from 74% to 100%.Regulatory Body: IRDAI (now with enhanced enforcement powers).Key Statutory Changes: Amendments to Insurance Act 1938, LIC Act 1956, and IRDA Act 1999.Solvency Ratio: All insurers must maintain a minimum ratio of 1.5 (Assets vs. Liabilities).ConclusionThe passage of the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill, 2025 marks a shift from a partnership-based model to a fully liberalized insurance market. While it promises massive capital infusion and technological upgrades, the regulatory challenge will be to ensure data privacy and maintain the dominance of trust-based public institutions like LIC.
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International NewsSydney Shooting Tragedy: Police identified a father-son duo, Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram, as the gunmen behind the massacre at a Jewish celebration in Bondi Beach. The attack claimed 15 lives, including a 10-year-old girl and an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor.Thai-Cambodian Border Conflict: Cambodia accused Thailand of bombing deep into its territory, including areas near the UNESCO heritage site of Angkor Wat. The renewed fighting has killed at least 28 people and displaced 8 lakh civilians.Ukraine Peace Talks: Discussions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. envoys continued in Berlin. Ukraine is reportedly resisting U.S. pressure to cede control of the Donbas region as a condition for peace.Chile Election: Ultra-conservative José Antonio Kast secured a victory with 58.2% of the vote, marking a significant right-wing shift in the country's leadership.Oman Diplomatic Visit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Oman marks 70 years of diplomatic relations. Key discussions involve maritime security, trade (CEPA agreement), and energy cooperation.2. National Current AffairsHigher Education Overhaul: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan introduced the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA) Bill, 2025, which seeks to replace the UGC, AICTE, and NCTE with a single regulatory commission. The Bill has been sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further deliberation.New Rural Employment Bill: The government proposed the Viksit Bharat Guarantee For Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill to replace MGNREGA. It increases guaranteed workdays from 100 to 125 but shifts from a demand-driven to a supply-driven scheme with a fixed budget cap.Nuclear Power Expansion: The SHANTI Bill, 2025 was introduced to incentivize private sector participation in nuclear power production and scale up installed capacity to 100 GW by 2047.BJP Leadership Change: Nitin Nabin (45) was appointed as the National Working President of the BJP, signaling a generational shift in the party.Voter Roll Revision: The Centre defended the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the Rajya Sabha, stating it is based on the principle of "one person, one vote".3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Aviation Hub in Bhogapuram: HRD Minister Nara Lokesh is set to launch the GMR MANSAS Educity, India's first Aviation, Aerospace, and Defence (AAD) educational city.Support for Skill Census: Minister Lokesh met Union Ministers in New Delhi to seek support for an AI-powered Skill Census and the establishment of a National Skill Training Institute in Visakhapatnam.Maritime Shipyard in Nellore: The government allotted 30 acres in Juvvaladinne for an autonomous maritime shipyard by Sagar Defence Engineering, expected to generate 750 jobs.Potti Sriramulu Memorial: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced that the house in Chennai where Potti Sriramulu died will be developed into a memorial.4. District & Local NewsVijayawada (Bhavani Deeksha): The annual Bhavani Deeksha Viramana concluded with 'Poornahuti' at the Kanaka Durga temple, with over 5.15 lakh devotees visiting during the five-day ritual.Tirupati (Helmet Rule): The district police made helmets compulsory for motorcyclists and launched a 'No Helmet - No Petrol' rule at fuel stations.Palnadu (Hospital Penalty): A private hospital in Narasaraopet was fined three times the excess money it illegally collected from a beneficiary under the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva scheme.Bapatla (Resort Incentive): The government approved incentives for a ₹261 crore Radisson resort at Pandurangapuram.5. Sports and GamesIPL Auction: The 2026 IPL mini-auction is scheduled in Abu Dhabi; Cameron Green and Matheesha Pathirana are expected to be among the costliest buys.Cricket (India vs. SA): Shahbaz Ahmed has replaced Axar Patel (out due to illness) for the remaining T20Is.Chess (Global Chess League): upGrad Mumba Masters secured a 9-7 win over Fyers American Gambits; Alireza Firouzja defeated World Champion D. Gukesh.Women's Cricket: Tickets for the India-Sri Lanka women's T20I matches in Visakhapatnam went on sale.6. Cinema & ArtsMusic Academy Conference: Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman inaugurated the 99th annual conference in Chennai, stressing the need to reinvent performing arts to attract younger audiences.Statue Unveiling: A statue of legendary singer S.P. Balasubrahmanyam (SPB) was unveiled at Ravindra Bharathi in Hyderabad.IFFK Controversy: Kerala police opposed the anticipatory bail plea of filmmaker P.T. Kunhi Mohammed in a case related to outraging a woman’s modesty.7. General Knowledge PointsPeriodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS): India's unemployment rate fell to a low of 4.7% in November.Trade Deficit: India's trade deficit narrowed by over 61% in November to $6.6 billion due to strong export growth.Word of the Day: Waggish – witty or joking.Stooge: A person who is completely under someone else's control.8. Do You Know?Vande Bharat Extension: The Narsapur-MGR Chennai Central Vande Bharat Express was flagged off, stopping at major stations like Vijayawada, Nellore, and Renigunta.Australian Gun Laws: Australia introduced tough gun control laws after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, but the recent Bondi shooting has renewed calls for tighter regulations.9. Job & Educational TopicsPolice Recruitment: 196 candidates from Chittoor district were selected as police constables and received their appointment orders.Aviation Training: The GMR MANSAS Educity project aims to address the shortage of pilots and aircraft maintenance engineers in India.Tenders: TTD invited notifications for the supply of pre-medical staff manpower through outsourcing.10. Day Special: Vijay Diwas (Victory Day)Historical Significance: Celebrated to commemorate the victory of the Indian Armed Forces over Pakistan in the 1971 war, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh.Event at Army House: President Droupadi Murmu attended the 'At Home' event at the Army House, which showcased indigenous technologies and niche military capabilities.Duration: The war lasted 13 days (December 3 to December 16, 1971) and ended with the surrender of the Pakistani army led by General A.A.K. Niazi.Bijoy Dibos: This day is also celebrated in Bangladesh as its Independence Day (Bijoy Dibos).
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International NewsSydney Terror Attack: At least 11 people were killed and 29 wounded when gunmen opened fire at a Jewish Hanukkah event at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. One suspect was killed by police. Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Narendra Modi condemned the "ghastly" targeted attack.Thailand-Cambodia Border Clash: Thailand announced a curfew in southeastern Trat province as fighting with Cambodia spread to coastal areas. A Cambodian rocket attack killed a 63-year-old Thai villager.Ukraine-NATO Compromise: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine has relinquished its ambition to join NATO in exchange for legally binding Western security guarantees to end the war with Russia.Assassination in Gaza: Hamas confirmed the killing of senior commander Raed Saed in an Israeli strike, stating the action imperils the current ceasefire.Hong Kong Opposition Dissolves: The city’s last major opposition group, the Democratic Party, voted to disband due to mounting pressure and national security crackdowns.Myanmar Military Desertions: A former military officer revealed that approximately 20,000 soldiers and 200 officials have deserted the Myanmar junta since the 2021 coup.2. National Current AffairsBJP Leadership Change: Bihar Minister Nitin Nabin has been appointed as the new National Working President of the BJP, succeeding J.P. Nadda.Congress 'Vote Theft' Rally: Senior Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi, held a massive rally in Delhi’s Ramlila Ground against alleged "vote chori" (theft) and the Election Commission's functioning.Cyberfraud Crackdown: The CBI filed a chargesheet against 17 persons, including four Chinese nationals, and 58 firms involved in a transnational network using fraudulent loan and job apps.Higher Education Overhaul: The Union government proposed the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025, which aims to subsume the UGC, AICTE, and NCTE under a single umbrella commission.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Equitable Development: Minister Kollu Ravindra reaffirmed the government's commitment to the equitable development of all regions in AP, highlighting temple tourism and logistics as key drivers.Vijayawada Airport: The deadline for the new integrated terminal building at Gannavaram has been pushed to March 31, 2026.Vande Bharat Extension: Union Minister B. Srinivasa Varma flagged off the extended Chennai-Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express up to Narsapur.4. District & Local NewsVisakhapatnam (Operation LUNGS): The GVMC cleared 655 encroachments over a single weekend to improve pedestrian safety and protect government lands.Sri Sathya Sai District: Police arrested three persons from Karnataka for the murder of a 44-year-old man over a long-standing land dispute and personal grudge.Vizag Navy Marathon: Over 17,000 people participated in the 10th edition of the Eastern Naval Command Navy Marathon held along Beach Road.5. Sports and GamesSquash World Cup: India made history by winning their maiden Squash World Cup crown, defeating top-seed Hong Kong 3-0 in the final held in Chennai.Cricket (India vs. SA): India won the third T20I at Dharamshala; Hardik Pandya became the fourth player to achieve a "treble" of 1,000 runs, 100 sixes, and 100 wickets in T20Is.GOAT Tour: Football legend Lionel Messi met Sachin Tendulkar at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, as part of his four-city India tour.Badminton: Unnati Hooda and Kiran George clinched the singles titles at the Odisha Masters Super 100.6. Cinema & General KnowledgeActor Assault Case (Kerala): The trial court judgment highlighted a missing witness (Sreelakshmi) in the 2017 actor rape case, casting doubt on the prosecution's handling.UNESCO Review: India’s UNESCO Ambassador Vishal V. Sharma reviewed conservation efforts at the Ramappa Temple in Telangana.Word of the Day: Beatific – experiencing or bestowing celestial joy; angelic.7. Do You Know?Ground Frost vs. Snowfall: The IMD clarified that ice formations in hill stations like Lambasingi are often ground frost (dew crystallizing) rather than actual snowfall.Stubble Burning Evening Shift: Reports suggest Punjab and Haryana farmers have shifted stubble burning to the evening to avoid detection by polar-orbiting satellites.8. Job and OpportunitiesNavy Recruitment: The Indian Navy is preparing to commission its second MH-60R helicopter squadron (INAS 335 'Ospreys') in Goa on December 17.STEM Scholarships: Nasscom Foundation announced the STEM Scholars initiative for 3rd/4th year B.Tech students in select cities; deadline is Dec 26.Tata Capital Pankh Scholarship: Open for students in Classes 11, 12, or degree/diploma programs; deadline is Dec 25.9. Something OtherBhavani Deeksha: The sacred 'Poornahuti' ritual marking the conclusion of the annual Bhavani Deeksha Viramana was performed atop Indrakeeladri.New Terminal Themes: The upcoming Vijayawada airport terminal will feature interior themes of Amaravati Buddhist stupas and Kuchipudi dance.10. DAY SPECIAL:International Tea DayInternational Tea Day is observed annually to celebrate the cultural and economic significance of tea or chai.The day aims to promote and raise awareness about the diverse aspects of tea, including its history, production, consumption and health benefits.First discovered in China in 2737 BC, tea went on to become a staple within Asian cultureThe first International Tea Day was celebrated in India's capital city, New Delhi, in 2005
AUTOR: K Shiva1. International News (Internal & Global Highlights)Syria Attack: Two American soldiers and an interpreter were killed in central Syria after an ISIS gunman opened fire on a joint patrol.Ukraine Energy Crisis: Massive Russian drone and missile attacks on Odesa and other regions left over a million households without power.West Bank Expansion: A UN report stated that Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank reached its highest level since 2017.2. National Current AffairsNational Blood Transfusion Bill, 2025: Introduced in Parliament to establish a dedicated National Blood Transfusion Authority, setting uniform standards for blood collection, testing, and storage nationwide.Aland Voter Fraud Case: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) identified six loopholes in the Election Commission’s National Voters Service Portal (NVSP) used to delete genuine voters' names without their knowledge.Elimination of Maoism: Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that India is on the verge of eliminating Maoism by March 2026, with plans to make Chhattisgarh’s Bastar the most developed tribal region by 2030.MGNREGS Renaming Controversy: The Union Cabinet approved a Bill to rename the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme as the "Pujya Bapu Employment Guarantee Scheme" and increase work days to 125.Pax Silica Initiative: India was excluded from a new U.S.-led strategic initiative (Pax Silica) involving nine nations aimed at securing high-tech supply chains and reducing Chinese dominance.3. State Current Affairs (Andhra Pradesh)Amaravati Farmers’ Issues: Union Minister Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar assured that a three-member committee is resolving land acquisition and pooling issues on a priority basis.Sagarmala Project: The Centre identified 110 projects worth over ₹1 lakh crore in AP to enhance port-led industrialization and coastal infrastructure.Priority Road Corridors: Administrative sanction was given for pilot projects in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada, costing ₹2,479 crore, to develop 110 km of urban corridors.YSRCP Allegations: General Secretary M.V.S. Nagi Reddy alleged that over 300 farmers ended their lives since the NDA government took power, citing a crisis in the agriculture sector.4. District & Local NewsVijayawada: The 36th Vijayawada Book Festival is set to begin on January 2, 2025, at the IGMC Stadium.Guntur: The district set a national record by settling 23,287 cases, including 1,407 civil cases, during a single National Lok Adalat session.Anakapalli: Police arrested four persons for murdering a 54-year-old man to claim an insurance payout of over ₹1 crore, initially staged as a hit-and-run.Kerala Local Body Polls: The Congress-led UDF made a strong comeback, while the BJP-led NDA emerged as the largest front in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation.5. Sports and GamesLionel Messi’s India Tour: * Kolkata: Chaos erupted at Salt Lake Stadium as VIPs blocked fans' views, leading to stadium vandalism and the arrest of the main organizer.Hyderabad: A successful spectacle at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium where Messi, Luis Suarez, and Rodrigo De Paul interacted with fans and children.Squash World Cup: India entered the final for the first time after defeating defending champion Egypt 3-0 in Chennai.National Wrestling: Paris Olympics bronze medalist Aman Sehrawat won the 61kg freestyle gold despite an eyebrow injury.6. Cinema & EntertainmentNetflix-Warner Merger: Netflix announced an $82.7 billion deal to acquire Warner Bros., including HBO and film/TV studios, marking a major shift in the entertainment industry.7. General Knowledge PointsPreah Vihear Temple: An ancient Hindu temple at the center of border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.APAAR ID Scheme: A unique student identity linked to Aadhaar; the Orissa High Court directed the government to include a clear "opt-out" option for parents.Bison Horn Maria: A traditional tribal dance of the Dandami Madia community in Chhattisgarh, characterized by horn-shaped headgear.8. Do You Know?Australian Social Media Ban: Australia became the first country to implement a social media ban for users under 16, with fines up to $33 million for non-compliant platforms.Asia’s Longest Ski Drag Lift: A 726-metre ski drag lift was inaugurated in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, at an altitude of 4,390 metres.9. Job & Educational OpportunitiesAPPSC Verification: Verification of original certificates for Polytechnic Lecturer posts is scheduled from December 29 to 31, 2025.IISER Thiruvananthapuram: Applications invited for various non-teaching posts; last date for online submission is January 5, 2026.Diploma in Packaging: Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) opened admissions for its 31st batch (2026-2027) through correspondence.10. Day Special: National Energy Conservation DaySignificance: Observed annually on December 14 to raise awareness about the importance of energy efficiency and conservation.Energy Awards: President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Energy Conservation Awards at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.Andhra Pradesh Achievement: The state won the first prize in the Group-II category for the fourth consecutive year, scoring 89.25 points in the State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2025.
The air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) deteriorated significantly, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching the 'severe' category (around 459-497 in some areas). Residents reported breathing difficulties and eye irritation. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), and the Delhi government has directed schools to conduct classes for grades IX and XI in hybrid mode. The CAQM also ordered a ban on outdoor sports competitions in the NCR.
The Congress party is holding a major rally at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi today to protest alleged "vote theft" and seek accountability from the government and the Election Commission regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Top party leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, are expected to address the gathering. The BJP, in response, has dismissed the rally as a gathering of "failed people" and accused Congress of attempting to protect illegal infiltrators from being removed from voter lists.
The magazine focuses on major developments that occurred in late 2024 (specifically November and December) leading into January 2025: 1. Constitution of India @ 75: Special "Constitution Day" programs were held on November 26, 2024, to mark the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution. 2. World Chess Championship 2024: Indian Grandmaster Dommaraju Gukesh won the 18th World Chess Championship-2024, becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat, surpassing Garry Kasparov's record. The final took place in Singapore on December 12, 2024. 3. Successful PSLV-C59 Launch: ISRO successfully launched the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C-59 rocket on December 5, 2024, placing the European Space Agency's 'Proba-3 mission' satellites into orbit. 4. 19th G-20 Summit 2024: The summit was held on November 18 and 19, 2024, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the theme 'Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet'. 5. PM Modi's Visit to Nigeria and Guyana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Nigeria and Guyana from November 16 to 21, 2024. 6. State Assembly Election Results: The results for the Maharashtra and Jharkhand Assembly elections were announced on November 23, 2024, with Devendra Fadnavis sworn in as Maharashtra Chief Minister on December 5, 2024, and Hemant Soren sworn in as Jharkhand Chief Minister on November 28, 2024. 7. Syria Under Rebel Control: The rule of President Bashar al-Assad was ended after rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), occupied the capital Damascus on December 8, 2024. 8. Simultaneous Elections Committee: The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill-2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill-2024, concerning simultaneous elections, were referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for examination. 9. "Swarnandhra-2047" Vision Document: This vision document for Andhra Pradesh was unveiled by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on December 13, 2024.