1. Karnataka Bank won IBA Award for Fintech Adoption
What happened:
Karnataka Bank won the IBA Award for Fintech Adoption for excellence in digital banking initiatives.
Why important:
- Highlights innovation in India’s banking sector
- Encourages digital transformation and fintech collaboration
Exam Tip:
Questions may be asked on banking awards, digital banking, and fintech adoption.
2. Yemen appointed Shaya Zindani as Prime Minister
What happened:
Yemen appointed Shaya Zindani as its new Prime Minister.
Why important:
- Significant political development amid Yemen’s ongoing crisis
- Important for international relations and Middle East affairs
Exam Tip:
Remember country–leader pairings for UPSC and State PCS.
3. US suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries
What happened:
The United States announced suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries.
Why important:
- Impacts global migration and international diplomacy
- Affects Indian diaspora and global visa policies
Exam Tip:
Questions may come from international migration policies and current diplomatic issues.
4. New research advancement in Huntington’s disease
What happened:
Scientists made significant progress through new research related to Huntington’s disease.
Why important:
- Could help in early diagnosis and better treatment
- Important development in neurological disorders
Exam Tip:
Diseases in news are frequently asked in Prelims (Science & Tech).
5. MS Dhoni named Goodwill Ambassador for Pune Grand Tour 2026
What happened:
MS Dhoni was named Goodwill Ambassador for the Pune Grand Tour 2026 cycling event.
Why important:
- Promotes sports culture and fitness
- Boosts visibility of cycling events in India
Exam Tip:
Remember sports ambassadors and events.
6. India to host top EU leaders on Republic Day
What happened:
India will host top European Union leaders during Republic Day 2026 celebrations.
Why important:
- Strengthens India–EU strategic partnership
- Highlights India’s global diplomatic stature
Exam Tip:
Republic Day chief guests are high-probability exam questions.
7. Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in Delhi
What happened:
Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in Delhi remained in news.
Why important:
- Important ecological zone in the Aravalli range
- Relevant for biodiversity and environmental conservation
Exam Tip:
Location-based questions on national parks and sanctuaries are common.
8. 2026 Bahrain Darts Masters
What happened:
The 2026 Bahrain Darts Masters will feature top international players.
Why important:
- Expands global reach of darts as a sport
- Enhances Bahrain’s role in international sports events
Exam Tip:
Sports events hosted abroad are sometimes asked in Prelims (1-mark questions).
9. National Startup Day observed
What happened:
India observed National Startup Day on 16 January.
Why important:
- Promotes innovation and entrepreneurship
- Supports Startup India initiative
Exam Tip:
Remember dates of important national days.
10. Fire incident in Kakinada district
What happened:
A major fire in Kakinada district destroyed 38 homes.
Why important:
- Highlights disaster management and relief measures
- Relevant for state-specific current affairs
Exam Tip:
Disaster-related news is useful for GS-III and State exams.
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