Daily Current Affairs: 24 January 2026

Analysis for 24 January 2026

C P Radhakrishnan says Ram Mandir restored self-respect of Indians worldwide

Key Updates:

C P Radhakrishnan, Vice-President of India, stated that the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya restored the self-respect of Indians worldwide.
He made the remark while speaking at the launch of a book on the Ram Janmabhoomi movement authored by retired bureaucrat Surendra Kumar Pachauri.
Radhakrishnan described the temple construction as a defining moment in India’s civilisational journey.

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Shrinivasa Varakhedi presented 233-year-old Valmiki Ramayana manuscript to Nripendra Misra (End of January) ▼

Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of Central Sanskrit University, presented the Valmiki Ramayana manuscript with Tattvadipikatika commentary to Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Executive Council of Prime Ministers Museum and Library.
The manuscript was gifted to the Antarrashtriya Ram Katha Sangrahalaya (International Ram Katha Museum) in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.
The 233-year-old manuscript, written in Sanskrit in Devanagari script, includes five principal kandas: Balakanda, Aranyakanda, Kiskindhakanda, Sundarakanda, and Yuddhakanda.

C P Radhakrishnan releases Hindi edition of Palanivelu GUTS (End of January) ▼

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan released the Hindi edition of 'Palanivelu GUTS', the autobiography of eminent surgeon C Palanivelu.
C Palanivelu introduced laparoscopic surgery in Coimbatore in 1991, establishing the first such centre in southern India.
The event was attended by Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh, Chairman of National Medical Commission Abhijat Sheth, and Chairman of Board of Governors of Inter-University Centre for Teacher Education J S Rajput.

Sanitation Worker Unveils Book on President Draupadi Murmu (Start of January) ▼

The biography titled 'Agni Sarassulo Vikasinchina Kamalam Draupadi Murmu' was authored by former MP and academician Yarlagadda Lakshmi Prasad.
The book release took place under a tree on the Andhra University campus in Visakhapatnam.
A sanitation worker employed at Andhra University unveiled the book in a symbolic gesture underscoring social inclusion.

Government of India Approves Wage and Pension Revision for PSGICs, NABARD, and RBI

[Reserve Bank of India (RBI), National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)]

Key Updates:

The Government of India has approved a 12.41% hike in the wage bill for Public Sector General Insurance companies (PSGICs), effective from August 2022.
The revision for PSGICs incorporates a uniform family pension rate of 30% and an increase in NPS contribution from 10% to 14% for employees who joined after April 2010.
The total financial implication for the PSGIC wage and pension revision is approximately ₹8,170 crore, benefiting 46,322 employees, 23,570 pensioners, and 23,260 family pensioners.
The PSGICs covered under the revision include National Insurance Company Ltd (NICL), New India Assurance Company (NIACL), Oriental Insurance Company (OICL), United India Insurance Company (UIICL), General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC), and Agriculture Insurance Company of India Ltd (AICIL).
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) will implement a hike of approximately 20% in pay and allowances for all Group 'A', 'B', and 'C' employees.
The government has approved a 10% enhancement in pension and family pension on basic pension plus dearness relief for Reserve Bank of India (RBI) retirees, effective from November 1, 2022.
The RBI pension revision results in an effective enhancement of the basic pension by a factor of 1.43 for 30,769 beneficiaries, including 22,580 pensioners and 8,189 family pensioners.
The NABARD revision is expected to benefit approximately 3,800 serving and former employees.

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Composite Salary Account for Central Govt Staff Unveiled; Integrates Banking, Card & Insurance Benefits (Mid of January) ▼

The Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, has launched a composite salary account package for central government employees.
The scheme integrates banking facilities, insurance coverage, and card services under a single account.
Banking features include zero-balance salary accounts, free fund transfers via RTGS, NEFT, and UPI, concessional loan rates, and waivers on locker rentals.
Insurance coverage comprises personal accident insurance up to ₹1.50 crore, air accident insurance up to ₹2 crore, and term life insurance up to ₹20 lakh with top-up options.
Card-related benefits include airport lounge access, rewards and cashback programmes, unlimited transactions, and no maintenance charges.

Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme (TAPS) provides 50% of last-drawn salary as pension (Start of January) ▼

Fifty per cent of the last drawn salary of government employees would be the assured pension.
Pensioners receiving 50 per cent assured pension would be granted Dearness Allowance hike every six months on a par with government employees.
In case of the death of pensioners, 60 per cent of the pension amount would be granted as family pension to the nominee of the deceased.
If an employee dies in harness, or in case of death at the time of retirement, upto a maximum of Rs 25 lakh Death gratuity would be provided in keeping with the length of service.
After the implementation of the new Assured Pension Scheme, all who retire without completing the qualifying service period for receiving pension will be provided a minimum pension.
In case of retirement, ahead of the implementation of the TN Assured Pension Scheme, of those who joined the government service under the Contributory Pension Scheme, they would be provided a Special Compassionate Pension.
In view of the introduction of the TAPS, the Tamil Nadu government has to provide an additional Rs 13,000 crore to the Pension Fund.
Annually, the TAPS implementation would entail an expenditure of approximately Rs 11,000 crore as the government's contribution.

8th Central Pay Commission: Formation, Members, and Objectives (End of October) ▼

The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved the terms of reference (ToR) of the Eighth Central Pay Commission.
Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai becomes 8th Pay Commission Chairperson.
Apart from Justice Desai, the Commission will have IIM Bangalore Professor Pulak Ghosh as Member (Part-Time), and Petroleum Secretary Pankaj Jain as Member-Secretary.
The Commission will submit its recommendations within 18 months.
Hikes in pay, pensions likely to be effective retrospectively from Jan 1, 2026.
The Central Pay Commissions are periodically constituted to go into various issues of emoluments structure, retirement benefits and other service conditions of Central Government employees and to make recommendations on the changes required thereon.
While making its recommendations, the Commission will keep in view the economic conditions in the country and the need for fiscal prudence, the need to ensure that adequate resources are available for developmental expenditure and welfare measures, and the unfunded cost of non-contributory pension schemes.

Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill 2025 raises FDI limit to 100% (End of December) ▼

The Union Cabinet approved the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025 to revamp India’s insurance framework.
The Bill raises the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in Indian insurance companies from 74% to 100%.
It reduces the Net Owned Funds requirement for foreign reinsurers from Rs 5,000 crore to Rs 1,000 crore.
IRDAI gets enhanced enforcement powers, including authority to disgorge wrongful gains made by insurers or intermediaries.
LIC is empowered to set up new zonal offices without prior government approval and to align overseas operations with host-country laws.

Odisha Total Ban on Gutka and Tobacco/Nicotine Food Products

[Odisha]

Key Updates:

Odisha government ordered a complete ban on manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and consumption of gutka and all food products containing tobacco and nicotine.
The ban covers gutka, pan masala, zarda, khaini and similar chewable or flavoured/scented food products, packaged or unpackaged.
Cigarettes and bidis are excluded from the prohibition.
Violations will attract strict penal action under food safety law, including product seizure, licence cancellation and prosecution.

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BIS Standard IS 19412:2025 for Agarbattis to Ensure Consumer Safety and Boost Market (End of December) ▼

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced 'IS 19412:2025' to prohibit insecticidal chemicals like alethrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and fipronil in agarbatti manufacturing.
The standard classifies agarbattis into machine-made, hand-made, and traditional masala categories and sets requirements for raw materials, burning quality, fragrance performance, and chemical parameters.
Products complying with the standard can carry the BIS Standard Mark, helping consumers make informed choices and boosting the Rs 8,000 crore agarbatti market.

Finance Ministry notifies 40% GST rate on tobacco & pan masala from Feb 1 (Start of January) ▼

Tobacco products and pan masala will attract a 40% GST rate under the Goods and Services Tax regime.
Biris will attract an 18% GST rate.
The current GST compensation cess on sin goods will be discontinued from February 1.
Additional excise duty will be levied on tobacco products and a Health and National Security Cess on pan masala.
The Chewing Tobacco, Jarda Scented Tobacco and Gutkha Packing Machines (Capacity Determination and Collection of Duty) Rules, 2026 have been notified to determine production capacity and collect duty.

Jharkhand notifies Panchayat Extension of Scheduled Areas (PESA) Rules empowering gram sabhas (Mid of January) ▼

The Jharkhand government has notified the rules under the Panchayat Extension of Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act.
The rules aim to restore and protect the rights of tribal communities over their land, water, forest resources, culture, and governance systems.
Pre-consent of gram sabha will be required on issues of land acquisition and rehabilitation.
No manufacture, storage, or sale of liquor will be allowed without the consent of the gram sabha.
The gram sabha has the right to monitor schools, anganwadis, health centres and PDS shops located in rural areas.
Each gram sabha will create its own 'Gram Kosh' funded by royalties from minor forest produce, pond leases, market fees, sand ghats, etc.

India Re-Elected to Codex Executive Committee (Mid of November) ▼

India has been unanimously re-elected to the Codex Executive Committee (CCEXEC) for the Asia region.
This re-election occurred during the 48th Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC48).
India’s leadership in global food safety and trade standards is ensured until 2027.
The Indian delegation was led by FSSAI CEO Rajit Punhani.
India pushed for stronger data systems, updated global databases for additives and pesticide residues, and the use of AI tools to speed up Codex work.
Key highlights included the Adoption of the Standard for Fresh Dates and the Forwarding of the Standard for Fresh Curry Leaves.
Other approvals included new guidelines for pesticide reference material, an updated aflatoxin code for peanuts, and nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors.
The Revival of the Cashew Kernel Standard was noted as a major boost for India’s exports.
India also supported global standards for laver products and camel milk.

Carbon Credit Trading Scheme expands coverage to refineries, textiles, petrochemicals and secondary aluminium

Key Updates:

The government has widened the scope of the Indian carbon market by setting greenhouse gas emission intensity (GEI) targets for 208 more carbon-intensive industrial units.
A notification issued on 13 January brings petroleum refineries, petrochemicals, textiles and secondary aluminium under the compliance mechanism of the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS).
With this latest inclusion, a total of 490 obligated entities across the country’s most emission-intensive sectors are now covered under the compliance framework of the Indian carbon market.

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Union Ministry of Power Policy for Co-firing Biomass and MSW Charcoal in Thermal Power Plants (Mid of November) ▼

The Union Ministry of Power, Government of India, released a comprehensive policy on co-firing biomass and torrefied charcoal from municipal solid waste in coal-based thermal power plants (TPP) on November 7, 2025.
The policy aims to utilise surplus agricultural residue and unmanaged municipal waste to reduce emissions and support the Swachh Bharat Mission.
All coal-based thermal power plants in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) are directed to use a 5 per cent (by weight) blend of biomass pellets and an additional 2 per cent blend of either biomass pellets or torrefied charcoal made from MSW, along with coal, with effect from financial year 2025-26.
Other thermal power plants outside NCR will have to co-fire 5 per cent (by weight) of biomass pellets or torrefied MSW charcoal from 2025-26.
For TPPs located in NCR and adjoining areas, a minimum of 50 per cent of the raw material in pellets must consist of stubble, straw or rice paddy crop residue sourced exclusively from NCR and adjoining regions.
The cost of co-firing biomass pellets and MSW charcoal shall be passed through the Energy Charge Rate (ECR) for TPPs under Section 62 of the Electricity Act, 2003, or claimed under change-in-law provisions/fuel cost pass-through for TPPs under Section 63.
There is also a provision for exemptions on a case-by-case basis, to be examined by a committee comprising representatives of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM), Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd, SAMARTH Mission, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Central Power Research Institute.

India unveils first-of-its-kind R&D roadmap to deploy Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) for 2070 net-zero target (Start of December) ▼

India has launched the first of its kind R&D roadmap to enable the country's net-zero emission targets of 2070 through Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS).
The roadmap will leverage the government's Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) funding pathways to accelerate CCUS development and deployment.
It will guide coordinated action, foster collaboration, and enable investments that accelerate technology deployment for reducing carbon footprints across hard-to-abate sectors such as cement, power and steel.
India early this year unveiled a pioneering national initiative of creating five Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds in the cement sector, forming a first of its kind research and innovation cluster to combat industrial carbon emissions.

India-Japan Joint Crediting Mechanism highlighted at COP30 as key to equitable climate action (End of November) ▼

India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement in August this year
Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav stated that the JCM aligns with India’s Nationally Determined Contributions and long-term low-emission development strategy
Japan’s Environment Minister Hirotaka Ishihara announced that JCM now covers 31 partner countries with over 280 projects under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement

Central Excise (Amendment) Bill 2025: Replaces GST compensation cess on tobacco products (Start of December) ▼

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to introduce the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which proposes changes to the Central Excise Act, 1944.
The bill will replace the current GST compensation cess on cigarettes, chewing tobacco, cigars, hookahs, zarda and scented tobacco.
The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aims to give the government the fiscal space to increase the rate of central excise duty on tobacco and tobacco products so as to protect tax incidence after the GST compensation cess ends.
The Health Security se National Security Cess Bill, 2025, seeks to levy a new cess on machines or processes used in the manufacture of pan masala and other notified goods.
The Health Security se National Security Cess Bill, 2025, will replace the compensation cess on pan masala.
The proposed health–security cess is meant to augment the resources for meeting Security expenditure on national security and for public health.
The proposed health–security cess will apply in addition to all other taxes.
The GST compensation cess, introduced in 2017 for five years to offset states’ revenue loss, was extended till March 31, 2026, to repay the Centre’s Covid-era borrowing.

Skills Accelerator MoU to bridge workforce skill gaps

[World Economic Forum (WEF)]

Key Updates:

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed an MoU with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to launch and implement a Skills Accelerator in India.
The Accelerator is a multistakeholder platform aimed at identifying, scaling, and accelerating innovative solutions and public–private partnerships to address critical skills gaps in the workforce.
It will strengthen India’s technical and vocational education and training ecosystem by aligning skilling initiatives with industry and global economy demands.

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GeM–WTC Mumbai MoU to Boost MSME Inclusion in Public Procurement (End of January) ▼

GeM and MVIRDC World Trade Centre Mumbai signed an MoU to foster domestic and international collaboration in public procurement.
The MoU aims to enhance GeM’s global positioning, promote knowledge exchange, and drive inclusive participation for MSMEs, startups, women entrepreneurs, and underrepresented suppliers.
Joint initiatives include global procurement dialogues, capacity-building programs, supplier outreach, and research on AI in procurement, sustainability, and green practices.
A Joint Working Group will oversee implementation, ensuring alignment with Government of India policies on public procurement, data security, and inclusivity.

PM VIKAS: Skill Training for 2,110 Minority Youth through NIFTEM-K (End of December) ▼

The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) has selected the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) Kundli as a Project Implementing Agency (PIA) to implement the PM VIKAS scheme.
Under this project, NIFTEM-K will train a total of 2,110 beneficiaries from the minority community.
The training will be conducted across seven locations in the states of Jharkhand, Bihar, Punjab, and Haryana.
The program includes three training categories: Multi Skill Technician (Food Processing), Millet Products Processor, and Assistant Baking Technician.
The project will provide National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) compliant skill training through National Council of Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) approved courses.
The initiative aims to facilitate placement in wage employment, self-employment, or apprenticeship, with certification from institutions approved by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
The program is scheduled to be rolled out in January 2026.

United Economic Forum (UEF) and United Nations Sustainable Development Council (UNSDC) Sign MoU at UEF Trade Summit 2025 (End of December) ▼

The United Economic Forum (UEF) Trade Summit 2025, scheduled for 12th–14th December at the Chennai Trade Centre, had a grand inauguration by Thiru TRB Rajaa, Honourable Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu.
A historic MoU was signed between UEF and the United Nations Sustainable Development Council (UNSDC) to transform 17 of UN's SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).
The UNSDC will lead the execution of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across 45 UEF-associated Educational Institutions, including colleges and schools.
A 100 crore fund is being set up for entrepreneurs, startups and to scale up businesses, with an initial MoU of 50 crores signed between UEF and Anicut Capital.
The overarching theme, 'Unnatha Tamilagam – 4Tn for TN,' emphasizes the commitment to empowering 4,500 startups, enabling partnerships, and fostering inclusive economic development.
A total of 10 MoUs will be signed during the Summit to strengthen strategic partnerships aimed at enabling 10X business growth through advisory support and market access.

DGT and Autodesk Collaborate to Enhance Design and Make Skills for India’s Vocational Workforce (Start of November) ▼

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Directorate General of Training (DGT) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Autodesk.
The collaboration aims to advance digital design and make skills among faculty and trainers in National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across India.
The initiative seeks to strengthen the digital capabilities of trainers and educators, enhance employability skills in students, and prepare India’s workforce for the evolving needs of industries, such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction.
Over the next three years, this partnership will align skill development with rapid advancements in AI, industry innovation, and emerging career pathways.
Autodesk will extend its professional-grade software to educators and students across more than 14,500 ITIs and 33 NSTIs.
The initiative will involve the joint development of educational programs, curriculum, and learning activities, leveraging Autodesk’s technology.

India dispatches 7.5 tonnes of cancer medicines to Afghanistan

[Afghanistan]

Key Updates:

India dispatched 7.5 tonnes of life-saving cancer medicines to Kabul to address urgent needs of cancer patients.
The medicines were sent to meet the shortage in Afghanistan.
India remains committed to supporting the friendly people of Afghanistan.

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Afghan Minister of Industry and Commerce Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi concludes successful India visit (End of November) ▼

Afghan Minister of Industry and Commerce Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi led a trade delegation to India from November 19-25.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed the visit “a very successful one and productive one”.
Azizi held bilateral talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
India and Afghanistan announced initiation of an air-freight corridor on the Kabul-Delhi and Kabul-Amritsar sectors.
Both sides reactivated the Joint Working Group on Trade, Commerce and Investment and agreed to explore collaboration in mining and other high-value sectors.
Commercial representatives will be deputed to respective embassies and a joint chamber of commerce and industry will be institutionalised.

Commerce Ministry highlights Brazil and Nigeria as key drivers of Indian pharmaceutical export growth. (Mid of January) ▼

Nigeria added USD 179 million in exports and contributed over 14 per cent to total export growth during the first eight months of this fiscal year.
Brazil recorded an increase of nearly USD 100 million in exports during April-November FY26.
India's pharmaceutical exports rose by 6.5 per cent to USD 20.48 billion during April-November 2025-26.
The US remains the single largest destination, accounting for over 31 per cent of exports in April-November 2025.
The Netherlands added over USD 58 million in exports, reflecting India's strengthening integration into European pharmaceutical distribution networks.

Specialised Training Program in Cancer Care for BIMSTEC Countries launched to strengthen oncology capacity (Start of January) ▼

The second phase of the Specialised Training Program in Cancer Care for BIMSTEC Countries was formally launched at the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Visakhapatnam.
The program brings together participants from BIMSTEC countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Nepal.
The initiative was announced by the Prime Minister of India at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit and is being implemented by the Tata Memorial Centre with support from the External Affairs Ministry.

India delivers 73 tonnes of life-saving medicines, vaccines and essential supplements to Kabul (End of November) ▼

India has delivered 73 tonnes of life-saving medicines, vaccines and essential supplements to Kabul to cater to urgent medical needs.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called Afghanistan counterpart Amir Khan Muttaqi to convey condolences at the loss of lives in the earthquake that struck Balkh, Samangan and Baghlan provinces.
Indian relief material for the earthquake-impacted communities is being handed over and further supplies of medicines to reach soon.

Alwar to Host NCR’s First Biological Park with 400 Wild Animals, 81 Species

[Rajasthan]

Key Updates:

The biological park will cover the region from Kati Ghati to Jaisamand and be built on 100 hectares, with 30% developed as a zoo and 70% as green space.
A high-tech animal rescue centre modelled on Gir National Park and a modern veterinary hospital will be established within the park.
The park will display over 400 wild animals of 81 species, including giraffes from Africa, seven tiger species, lions and cheetahs, alongside lion, tiger and herbivore safaris.
A butterfly park showcasing various butterfly species will also be created inside the biological park.

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Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-Sensitive Zone Notification (End of January) ▼

The Centre has declared the biodiversity-rich area, ranging from zero to one kilometre around Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary, located in one of the most fragile ecosystems of the Aravali range in Rajasthan, as an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ).
The move will prohibit environmentally hazardous human activities within the earmarked zone of 243 sq km.
Prohibited activities within the ESZ include commercial mining, stone quarrying and crushing units; setting up of industries causing water, air, soil and noise pollution; setting up of brick kilns; and erection of new wind mills among others.
New construction of hotels and resorts shall not be allowed within one km from the boundary of the protected area or up to the extent of the eco-sensitive zone, whichever is nearer.
Forests, horticulture areas, agricultural areas, parks and open spaces earmarked for recreational purposes in the zone will not be used or converted into areas for major commercial or residential or industrial activities.

Khangchendzonga National Park earns IUCN "Good" rating as India’s only positive-status natural World Heritage site (Start of November) ▼

IUCN rated Khangchendzonga National Park as "good" in its latest global review of natural World Heritage sites
The park is India’s first "mixed" UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised in 2016 for both natural and cultural value
The park covers 1,784 square kilometres and ranges from subtropical forests to Mount Khangchendzonga at 8,586 metres
It contains 280 glaciers, more than 70 glacial lakes, and wildlife including snow leopards, red pandas, and over 550 bird species
The larger Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve links core protected areas with buffer zones where villagers practice sustainable farming and harvesting

Maharashtra signs MoUs for Innovation City and Small Modular Reactors (SMR) at World Economic Forum (WEF)

[Maharashtra, World Economic Forum (WEF)]

Key Updates:

The Tata Group has pledged to invest $11 billion in developing the ecosystem for India's first ‘Innovation City' near Navi Mumbai airport.
The investments are in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), data centres, quantum processing, renewable energy, green skill, electric vehicles, urban transformation, green steel, shipbuilding, sustainability, fintech, digital infrastructure and textiles.
Maharashtra will also be the first in the country to set up small modular reactors (SMR) for generating atomic electricity.
The initiative is in line with the passage of Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill in Parliament.
The state has also signed an MoU with US-based Supervity AI to set up the world's first AI Global Capability Centre (GCC) hub in BKC.
The state has held talks with govt nuclear energy entities in India and Russia to fulfill the power demand of data centres.

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Tamil Nadu and Sarvam AI sign Rs 10,000 crore pact to build India’s first Sovereign AI Park (Mid of January) ▼

The Tamil Nadu government has signed an agreement with Sarvam AI to establish a full-stack Sovereign AI Park with an initial investment of Rs 10,000 crore.
The park will generate 1,000 high-skilled, deep-tech jobs and integrate AI compute infrastructure, secure data frameworks, model research labs and AI innovation clusters.
Data, models and compute will remain within the state’s trust boundary, ensuring a sovereign, ethical and inclusive ecosystem for deployment of AI systems.
The initiative will develop foundational Tamil-first AI models linking classical vocabulary with modern use-cases, ensuring inclusive, accurate and locally rooted AI systems.

Brookfield Asset Management invests $1 bn to build Asia's largest GCC facility in Maharashtra. (Mid of December) ▼

Brookfield Asset Management will invest more than $1 billion to create a 2 million sq ft global capability centre (GCC) facility in Maharashtra.
The facility will be the largest in Asia and will create over 15,000 direct jobs and support another 30,000 indirect jobs.
Brookfield aims to more than triple its assets under management in India to $100 billion over the next five years.
Maharashtra introduced a dedicated GCC policy earlier this year targeting the creation of 4 lakh new jobs.

Indian AI Research Organisation (IAIRO) to be set up at GIFT City through PPP model (End of December) ▼

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel gave in-principle approval for the establishment of the Indian AI Research Organisation (IAIRO) to strengthen research and development in artificial intelligence.
The facility will be set up through a tripartite partnership involving the state and Central governments, and the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance under the PPP model.
IAIRO will be constituted as a non-profit institute under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.
An estimated budget of approximately ₹300 crore has been earmarked for the first five years, with equal contribution of 33.33% each from the state government, the Centre, and the private partner.
The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) has joined as the anchor private partner and will contribute ₹25 crore for the year 2025-26.
IAIRO will function under a hybrid compute model, integrating on-premise GPU infrastructure along with national platforms such as the IndiaAI Cloud.

TCS and TPG form joint venture for gigawatt-scale AI-ready data centres in India (End of November) ▼

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is joining forces with private equity group TPG in a multi-billion dollar joint venture.
The joint venture, named HyperVault AI Data Centre Ltd, aims to create gigawatt-scale, AI-ready data centres.
TCS will own a controlling 51% of HyperVault, and TPG will deploy Rs 8,820 crore ($1.1 billion) for a stake of up to 49%.
Both partners have agreed to cumulatively invest up to Rs 18,000 crore ($2.1 billion) as equity in HyperVault over the next few years.
The new data centre arm will operate as a colocation data centre provider, offering services to hyperscalers, Indian enterprises, government entities, and Tata companies.
TCS announced its plan to enter the data centre space with an aim of building up to 1.2 GW of capacity, entailing $6.5-7 billion in investments to be funded via debt and equity.
This is the first time that cash-rich TCS will be taking equity from a PE firm as well as external debt to fund a project.
The project will complete buildout in five to seven years and revenue could start kicking in over the next 18-24 months.
AZB & Partners, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas and Latham & Watkins LLP were the legal advisers, while Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India and Price Waterhouse & Co were tax advisers.

25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav begins on January 27

Key Updates:

25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav begins on January 27 and ends on February 20.
Festival features 277 Indian and 12 international productions from 15 countries.
First time inclusion of productions by 33 women directors.
New venues added: Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu, Aizawl, Tura, Nagaon, Mandi, Rohtak.
Languages showcased include Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tulu, Urdu, Sanskrit, Tai Khamti, Nyishi.
First-time participation of transgender communities, sex workers, senior citizens.
NSD to launch NSD radio station, OTT channel, and podcast series during the festival.
Tributes paid to Ebrahim Alkazi, Ratan Thiyam, Daya Prakash Sinha, Bansi Kaul, Alok Chatterjee.
17 new books on theatre to be launched under NSD's Shruti initiatives.

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Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) launched to position India among top five global live entertainment hubs (Start of January) ▼

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has constituted the Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) as a single-window facilitation mechanism to streamline processes for the live entertainment sector.
LEDC aims to double the sector’s size, generate 15–20 million jobs and place India among the top five global live entertainment hubs by 2030.
The cell brings together representatives from the Central and State governments, industry bodies and major event companies to coordinate policy support and sectoral expansion.

Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) to double sector size and generate 15–20 million jobs (Start of January) ▼

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has set up a Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) to serve as a single-window facilitation mechanism for India’s live entertainment industry.
The LEDC was constituted under the directions of Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The cell aims to double the sector’s size, generate 15–20 million jobs, and position India among the world’s top five live entertainment hubs.

Bargarh Dhanu Yatra Inaugurated at Bargarh in Odisha (End of December) ▼

Recognised as the largest open-air theatre in the world, the festival recreates episodes from the Dwapar Yuga, centring on the reign of King Kansa.
Over an 8 km radius, the spectacle unfolds across three royal courts—Raj Darbar, Rang Mahal, and Nanda Raja’s Darbar—and 18 open-air stages, where artists bring mythology to life.
The festivities will feature cultural processions, temple rituals, and dramatic performances, including a grand procession from Gandhi Chowk to Samaleswari Temple.
The inaugural ceremony will be graced by MP Pradeep Purohit and MLA Ashwini Sarangi.

56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) from November 20 to 28 themed 'Creativity & Technology' (Start of December) ▼

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is held in Goa.
The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) runs from November 20 to 28.
The theme of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is 'Creativity & Technology'.
Japan is the country of focus at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
For the first time, a grand opening float parade takes place at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on November 20.

Banaras Lit Fest announces Book Awards 2026; Namita Gokhale gets Lifetime Achievement Award

Key Updates:

Banaras Lit Fest announced winners of the second Banaras Lit Fest Book Awards 2026 in New Delhi.
Bhartendu Harishchandra Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on writer and cultural curator Namita Gokhale.
Announcement made at the outreach and curtain-raiser event at Hi-Tech Institute of Engineering & Technology, Delhi NCR.
Awards recognise excellence in fiction, poetry, non-fiction and translation across English, Hindi and Indian languages.
Each category award carries ₹51,000, citation and trophy; Lifetime Achievement Award carries ₹1 lakh.
Awards to be presented during Banaras Lit Fest from January 30 to February 1, 2026, at Hotel Taj, Banaras.
Gokhale honoured for contributions to writing, publishing and cultural dialogue across generations.
Festival President Deepak Madhok said the awards have emerged as a credible literary benchmark.
Founder Brijesh Singh announced the introduction of a Youth Award category.
Gomati Devi Eminence Awards 2026 announced for contributions to nation-building across sectors.

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Rabih Alameddine and Patricia Smith win 2025 National Book Awards (End of November) ▼

Rabih Alameddine won the 2025 National Book Award for Fiction for his novel 'The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother)'
Patricia Smith won the 2025 National Book Award for Poetry for her collection 'The Intentions of Thunder'
Each winner receives $10,000 as part of the award

Kiran Desai’s Booker-winning novel The Inheritance of Loss remains a diagnostic text on post-colonial perception (Start of November) ▼

The Inheritance of Loss won the 2006 Booker Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award.
Kiran Desai’s new novel The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny is shortlisted for the Booker Prize.
The Inheritance of Loss moves between Kalimpong’s colonial bungalow and New York’s undocumented restaurant corridors.

Maitreyi Pushpa conferred with IFFCO Sahitya Samman 2025 and Ankita Jain receives IFFCO Yuva Sahitya Samman (Start of January) ▼

Maitreyi Pushpa received the IFFCO Sahitya Samman 2025 for her literary contributions on rural and agricultural life.
Ankita Jain was awarded the IFFCO Yuva Sahitya Samman for her book 'Oh Re! Kisan'.
The awards were presented by IFFCO Chairman Dilip Sanghani at Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi.
The award instituted by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) carries a memento, citation, and Rs 11 lakh cheque.
Maitreyi Pushpa was born in Sikurra village of Aligarh district and obtained her M.A. in Hindi Literature from Bundelkhand College, Jhansi.
Ankita Jain is the Director of agro-manufacturing firm 'Vaidik Vatika' and founding member of 'Jai Jungle Farmers Producer Company'.

Book 'History That India Ignored' by Prem Prakash launched in Goa (Start of January) ▼

The book 'History That India Ignored' was formally launched by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
The launch was organised by the Prabha Khaitan Foundation under its literary initiative 'Kitaab'.
The event was hosted at Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage with support from Ehsaas Woman of Goa.
Prem Prakash emphasised the importance of acknowledging overlooked historical voices and unsung heroes.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti 2026 was observed as Parakram Diwas on January 23

Key Updates:

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti 2026 was observed on January 23, marking his 129th birth anniversary.
The day was celebrated as Parakram Diwas to honour Netaji’s courage, leadership and role in India’s freedom struggle.
Parakram Diwas commemorated Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the iconic leader of the Indian National Army (INA).
The term Parakram, meaning valour, reflected Netaji’s fearless and revolutionary spirit.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha.
He had resigned from the Indian Civil Service to dedicate himself fully to the independence movement.
Netaji led the INA and founded the Forward Bloc to strengthen resistance against British rule.
The Government of India had designated January 23 as Parakram Diwas to honour his sacrifices.
Schools and colleges organised debates, essay writing and cultural programmes across the country.
Tributes were paid at Netaji’s statues and memorials, especially in Cuttack, Kolkata and Delhi.

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Veer Bal Diwas observed on December 26 (End of December) ▼

Veer Bal Diwas is observed every year on December 26 to remember and honour the extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice of the four Sahibzadas, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in 2022 that December 26 would be observed annually as Veer Bal Diwas.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development observes Veer Bal Diwas at the national level and confers the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on the same day.

Shaheedi Week 2025 observed from 21 to 29 December (End of December) ▼

Shaheedi Week is observed every year in December to remember the great sacrifices (Shaheedi) made by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Mata Gujri Ji, and the four Sahibzade.
Shaheedi Week 2025 is observed from 21 to 29 December.
The week teaches lessons of bravery, faith, truth, and standing against injustice.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th Birth Anniversary: Commemorative Initiatives (Start of November) ▼

**National Unity Day:** Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary is celebrated as National Unity Day in India every year on 31 Oct.
**Commemorative Coin and Stamp:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the release of a special commemorative coin and stamp as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
**'Run for Unity':** Union Home Minister Amit Shah flagged off the ‘Run for Unity’ at New Delhi’s Major Dhyan Chand Stadium on the occasion of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th birth anniversary.

Kirtida Mekani passes away at 66

[Singapore]

Key Updates:

Kirtida Mekani, originally from Karnataka, died of a massive heart attack at home.
She was the founding executive director of the Singapore Environment Council (SEC) from 1993.
Mekani launched the Plant-A-Tree Programme in 2007 with Singapore’s National Parks Board (NParks) under the Garden City Fund.
She served as trustee of the United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) Foundation supporting its Rainforest Restoration Project.
In 2016 she co-founded the Biomimicry Singapore Network.
She was on the board of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Singapore and trustee of Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI).
She served on the board of LASALLE College of the Arts and on the management committee of the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS).
She received the President’s Award for the Environment in 2015 and was inducted into the Singapore Women’s Hall of Fame in 2024.

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Madhav Gadgil passes away, recipient of United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Champions of the Earth award (Start of January) ▼

Madhav Gadgil chaired the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), later known as the Gadgil Commission.
He was a key architect of India’s Biological Diversity Act and contributed to the implementation of the Forest Rights Act.
Gadgil established India’s first biosphere reserve, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, in 1986.
In 2024, he was named a laureate of the United Nations Environment Programme’s Champions of the Earth award.

Meera Syal appointed Dame in New Year Honours (Start of January) ▼

Meera Syal has been made a Dame for services to literature, drama and charity.
She was previously appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1997 and Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2015.
Dame Meera co-wrote and starred in the British Asian comedies Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No 42.
Her debut novel Anita And Me won the Betty Trask Award.
She is an ambassador for the Alzheimer's Society and supporter of the charity Kisharon.

Ponduru khadi receives Geographical Indication tag (Mid of December) ▼

Ponduru khadi has been granted the geographical indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union ministry of commerce and industry.
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) submitted a declaration and supporting documents about two years ago to claim the GI tag.
Mahatma Gandhi was gifted a Ponduru khadi stole when he visited Dusi railway station during the Swadeshi movement in 1921.
The Andhra Pattusali Khadi Karmik Abhivrudhi Sangam (now known as Andhra Fine Khadi Karmik Abhivrudhi Sangam) was established in 1949 and currently functions under KVIC.
Acharya Vinoba Bhave laid the foundation stone of AFKKS in 1955.

114-year-old environmentalist ‘Saalumarada’ Thimmakka passes away (Mid of November) ▼

Environmentalist 'Saalumarada' Thimmakka, who planted 385 banyan trees, has passed away at the age of 114.
The Padma Shri awardee, born in 1911, was recognized for her dedication to nature, treating trees as her children.
Thimmakka earned the title ‘Saalumarada’ for planting 385 banyan trees along a 4.5 km stretch between Hulikal and Kudur in Ramanagara, Bengaluru South district.
Her remarkable efforts earned her numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 2019, the Nadoja Award from Hampi University in 2010, the National Citizen Award in 1995, and the Indira Priyadarshini Vrikshamitra Award in 1997.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah also expressed his condolences on her passing.