1. Atal Pension Yojana extended
What happened:
The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of Atal Pension Yojana (APY) till 2030–31.
Why important:
It ensures long-term social security for workers in the unorganised sector through guaranteed pensions.
Exam Tip:
APY is administered by PFRDA and targets unorganised sector workers aged 18–40 years.
2. ₹5,000 crore equity infusion to SIDBI
What happened:
The government approved a ₹5,000 crore equity infusion into Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).
Why important:
This move will enhance SIDBI’s lending capacity to MSMEs, boosting employment and entrepreneurship.
Exam Tip:
SIDBI is the principal financial institution for MSME promotion and development.
3. India ranks 6th in Asia Manufacturing Index 2026
What happened:
India secured the 6th position in the Asia Manufacturing Index 2026.
Why important:
It reflects India’s growing manufacturing strength under initiatives like Make in India.
Exam Tip:
Manufacturing contributes around 17% to India’s GDP.
4. Parakram Diwas observed
What happened:
The Ministry of Culture is observing Parakram Diwas (23–25 January) to mark the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Why important:
The day honours Netaji’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle and national unity.
Exam Tip:
Netaji was the founder of the Indian National Army (INA).
5. ECOSOC marks 80th anniversary
What happened:
The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) marked its 80th anniversary.
Why important:
ECOSOC coordinates UN work on economic, social, and environmental issues.
Exam Tip:
ECOSOC is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations.
6. Abu Dhabi named world’s safest city
What happened:
Abu Dhabi was ranked the world’s safest city in the Numbeo Global Safety Index 2026.
Why important:
It highlights effective law enforcement and urban safety governance.
Exam Tip:
Numbeo releases indices on cost of living, safety, pollution, and quality of life.
7. India vs New Zealand 1st T20
What happened:
The 1st T20 match between India and New Zealand was played at Nagpur.
Why important:
International matches are relevant for sports current affairs sections.
Exam Tip:
Nagpur’s VCA Stadium is also known as the Jamtha Stadium.
8. WEF 2026 begins in Davos
What happened:
The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026 Annual Meeting began in Davos, Switzerland.
Why important:
Global leaders discuss issues like AI, economy, climate change, and geopolitics.
Exam Tip:
WEF was founded by Klaus Schwab in 1971.
9. DIBD–Survey of India MoU
What happened:
The Department of Indian Border Development (DIBD) signed an MoU with Survey of India for toponymic data digitisation.
Why important:
It supports accurate mapping and strengthens border infrastructure planning.
Exam Tip:
Survey of India is India’s oldest scientific department (est. 1767).
10. NITI Aayog report on green transition
What happened:
NITI Aayog released reports on green transition in the cement, aluminium, and MSME sectors.
Why important:
The report promotes low-carbon growth and sustainable industrial practices.
Exam Tip:
NITI Aayog was formed in 2015, replacing the Planning Commission.
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