China bans dual‑use exports to Japan amid Taiwan tensions
China’s commerce ministry announced a ban on exports of dual‑use goods to Japan that could serve both civilian and military purposes, citing heightened tensions over Taiwan. The ministry did not name specific items, but warned that violations would face legal consequences. Japan did not immediately respond publicly. The measure signals a tightening of export controls in a sensitive regional security context and could affect technology and materials used in defence or strategic sectors. Analysts say the move adds another layer to China‑Japan‑Taiwan dynamics and regional defence calculations.
China bans dual‑use exports to Japan.
Policy linked to tensions over Taiwan.
No specific items named; violations punished.
Japan has not issued an immediate public response.
Implications for regional security and technology supply chains.
Indian Railways electrified network reaches global milestone
Indian Railways has electrified nearly all of its 70,000 route‑kilometre broad‑gauge network, making it among the world’s most electrified rail systems. By November 2025, over 99 percent of the network was electric. The pace rose from about 1.5 kilometres per day (2004–2014) to more than 15 kilometres per day in the last six years. The railways also expanded renewable energy use, with solar capacity approaching 900 megawatts by late 2025. Officials say electrification improves efficiency, reduces fuel costs and emissions, and strengthens energy security. The achievement supports national climate and infrastructure goals while boosting freight and passenger mobility.
Over 99% of 70,000 route‑km electrified by Nov 2025.
Global pace improved from 1.5 km/day to over 15 km/day.
Solar capacity near 900 MW as part of renewables use.
India becomes world’s largest rice producer, surpassing China
India has become the world's largest rice producer, surpassing China with a record output of about 150.18 million tonnes for the 2024‑25 season. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the milestone, noting the role of high‑yielding seed varieties and policy support in lifting production. The shift strengthens India’s position in global food markets and supports domestic food security, while contributing to rural incomes. Officials emphasise continued focus on agricultural innovation, seed dissemination and climate‑resilient farming to sustain growth and export potential in the coming years.
India becomes the top global rice producer with 150.18 million tonnes.
Announcement attributed to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Year referenced: 2024‑25 season.
Driven by high‑yield seeds and policy support.
Implications for food security and export potential.
FSS becomes first payments company in India and region to obtain ISO/IEC 42001 certification
Financial Software and Systems (FSS), a global leader in payments technology and transaction processing, has become the first payments company in India, the Middle East, Africa, APAC and South Africa to receive ISO/IEC 42001 Certification. The award recognises FSS’s formal governance framework for its use of Artificial Intelligence across digital payments and banking platforms. By achieving ISO/IEC 42001, FSS shifts from ad hoc AI use to an enterprise‑wide AI governance model, placing governance alongside information security and quality management as a core business priority. ISO/IEC 42001 is the world’s first international standard for AI management systems, emphasising governance, accountability and risk management across the AI lifecycle. This certification aims to bolster trust and safety for customers.
Certification announced on 6 January 2026.
Geographic scope includes India, the Middle East, APAC and South Africa.
Standard focuses on responsible and ethical AI management.
Governs AI across the full lifecycle, not just development.
Positions AI governance as a core business discipline.
India to commercially produce bio-bitumen for roads
Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that India has become the first country to commercially produce bio‑bitumen for road construction. Bitumen is a key binder in roads; bio‑bitumen uses renewable sources rather than crude oil. The development is expected to lower carbon emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable infrastructure. Government plans to promote wider adoption in future projects and to encourage collaboration with research institutions. The move aligns with policy goals for green mobility and climate‑friendly public works, while potentially influencing pricing and supply chains in the road‑construction sector.
India becomes first to commercially produce bio‑bitumen.
Bio‑bitumen substitutes fossil‑fuel binders in roads.
Aims to cut carbon emissions and reliance on crude oil.
Supports sustainable infrastructure policies.
Encourages collaboration with research institutions.
ISRO to launch PSLV‑C62 with BR defence satellite on Jan 12
ISRO announced the PSLV‑C62 mission, scheduled for January 12 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The main payload is a defence satellite built by DRDO, with on‑orbit refuelling technology demonstrated by a Bengaluru startup. The mission will also carry 13 other satellites from India and abroad, including a European demonstrator. The launch marks India’s first space mission of 2026 and strengthens collaborations in space science, defence, and international partnerships. The mission highlights India’s growing capabilities in satellite technology and strategic payload deployment.
PSLV‑C62 launch set for January 12, 2026.
DRDO‑built defence satellite is the primary payload.
On‑orbit refuelling tech demonstrated by a Bengaluru startup.
Total of 14 satellites including international payloads.
Anahat Singh wins silver at British Junior Open Women’s U‑19
Top‑seed Indian squash player Anahat Singh won silver in the women’s under‑19 final at the British Junior Open in Birmingham, England. She was defeated 9‑11, 11‑7, 3‑11, 9‑11 by France’s Lauren Baltayan in the final. Earlier, Anahat defeated Egypt’s Malika El Karaksy in the semifinals to reach the final. The centenary edition of the tournament ran from January 2 to 6, 2026, showcasing India’s rising strength in junior squash on the international stage. The result adds to India’s growing list of performances in global youth sport events.
Anahat Singh finalist in Women’s U‑19 at British Junior Open.
Lost final 9‑11, 11‑7, 3‑11, 9‑11 to Lauren Baltayan.
Semifinal win over Malika El Karaksy.
Centenary edition held Jan 2–6, 2026.
Continues India’s surge in junior squash.
Dhoni merges 7Padel with PadelPark India to boost the sport
Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has merged 7Padel MS Dhoni with PadelPark India, creating a unified national platform to scale padel in the country. The merger aims to accelerate court development, coaching, tournaments and community programmes, building a professional ecosystem for one of India’s fastest‑growing sports. The combined entity expects to expand participation, improve infrastructure and establish standardized coaching to groom future players. The partnership reflects Dhoni’s ongoing influence in Indian sport and aligns with broader efforts to diversify India’s sports portfolio and promote fitness across communities.
Dhoni merges 7Padel MS Dhoni with PadelPark India.
Goal: scale padel through courts, coaching and tournaments.
Aims to build a professional national ecosystem.
Expansion of participation and infrastructure.
Demonstrates Dhoni’s continued influence in Indian sport.
Jinson Johnson announces retirement from running
Jinson Johnson, 34, a national record holder and Asian Games gold‑medallist, announced retirement from competitive running. Johnson won 1500 metres gold at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games with a time of 3:44.72 and set the national 800 metres record at 1:45.65 during 2018. He represented India at multiple major events, including the Commonwealth Games. Johnson’s retirement marks the end of a prominent period in Indian middle‑distance running, during which he contributed to India’s presence in global athletics and inspired young athletes to pursue distance running at high levels.
Jinson Johnson retires from professional running.
2018 Jakarta Asian Games 1500m gold (3:44.72).
Held national 800m record (1:45.65) in 2018.
Represented India at multiple major events.
Leaves behind a legacy for Indian middle‑distance running.
A. Sakthivel takes charge as AEPC chairman for historic fifth term in January 2026
A. Sakthivel, founder of Tiruppur‑based Poppys Knitwear Pvt Ltd, has assumed charge as the chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) for a fifth term in January 2026. A long‑time industry veteran, he has served as an AEPC board member for the last 43 years. The AEPC coordinates policy advocacy, market access and export promotion for India’s apparel sector. In his new term, Sakthivel is expected to push broader export destinations, strengthen supply‑chain sustainability and address tariff challenges faced in major markets, including the United States. His leadership is seen as pivotal for maintaining India’s apparel competitiveness in global markets.
Sakthivel begins fifth term as AEPC chairman in January 2026.
Founder of Poppys Knitwear Pvt Ltd; long AEPC tenure (43 years).
AEPC role includes policy advocacy and market access for apparel exporters.
Focus areas: expanding destinations and sustainability compliance.
Aims to mitigate adverse tariff measures in key markets.
PMK joins NDA in Tamil Nadu ahead of assembly elections
In a major political development, the PMK faction led by Anbumani Ramadoss joined the BJP‑led NDA in Tamil Nadu ahead of the assembly elections. Joint announcements were made by AIADMK leader E. Palaniswami and PMK chief, signaling a consolidation of the NDA’s presence in the state. Palaniswami described the alliance as a winning combination, while Ramadoss called it a moment of pride for PMK supporters. The move strengthens the NDA’s electoral footprint in Tamil Nadu, with discussions on candidate sharing and policy alignment likely in the coming weeks as parties prepare for the polls.
PMK joins NDA in Tamil Nadu ahead of assembly elections.
Public announcements made by Palaniswami and Ramadoss.
AIADMK and PMK cooperation under the NDA banner.
Alliance aims to expand electoral reach in the state.
Future discussions expected on seat sharing and policy alignment.
Sagar Island bridge project launched in West Bengal
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee laid the foundation stone for a 5‑kilometre bridge over the Muriganga River, connecting Sagar Island with the mainland. The four‑lane structure will link Lot 8 in Kakdwip with Kachuberia on Sagar Island, at an estimated cost of ₹1,670 crore and is awarded to Larsen & Toubro. Construction is expected to take two to three years and will replace ferry services. The bridge aims to transform connectivity for residents and pilgrims visiting the Sundarbans, while boosting trade and tourism potential in the region.
Foundation stone laid for 5 km Muriganga bridge.
Link: Kakdwip to Sagar Island; four lanes; ₹1,670 crore.
Contract awarded to Larsen & Toubro.
Expected completion in 2–3 years; ferries replaced.
Aims to aid pilgrims during Gangasagar Mela and boost economy.
Indian Army forms Bhairav, a modern warfare force with drones
The Indian Army has created the Bhairav modern warfare force, comprising a pool of over one lakh drone operatives. Bhairav battalions are designed for high‑speed, offensive drone operations, bridging gaps between Para SF and regular infantry. Around 15 battalions are already raised, with an expansion plan to 25 battalions in the near future. Operatives will conduct real operations to target bases and formations within enemy territory, enhancing reconnaissance and strike capabilities. The initiative reflects a shift toward technology‑driven warfare and increased integration of unmanned systems into India’s defence posture.
Bhairav force formed with drone operatives exceeding 100,000.
BJP’s Northeast patriarch Kabindra Purkayastha passes away at 94
Assam BJP leader and former Union Minister Kabindra Purkayastha passed away in January 2026 at the age of 94. Known as the patriarch of the Assam BJP, Purkayastha was respected for his simple, disciplined public life. Before entering politics, he worked as a teacher. He later served as the Minister of Communications in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, among other roles, contributing to party organization and policy debates in the northeast. His demise is likely to prompt reflections on the party’s regional leadership and its long‑running presence in Assam politics.
Purkayastha died in January 2026 at age 94.
Widely regarded as Assam BJP's patriarch.
Former Minister of Communications in NDA government.
Had a background in teaching before politics.
Decades of service shaped party organization in the region.
Renowned Ecologist, Champions of Earth Recipient Madhav Gadgil Dies
Noted ecologist Madhav Gadgil, renowned for his work on the Western Ghats, passed away in January 2026 at the age of 83.
In 2024, the United Nations honoured him with the Champions of the Earth award, the organisation's highest environmental accolade, recognising his seminal contributions to the conservation of the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot.
He had also chaired the government-appointed Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel, which studied the effects of population pressure, climate change, and development activities on the ecologically sensitive region.
Earth’s Rotation Day commemorates Foucault’s pendulum discovery
Earth’s Rotation Day is observed on January 8 to celebrate the 1851 demonstration by French physicist Leon Foucault, who showed Earth’s rotation with a pendulum now known as Foucault’s Pendulum. The day highlights a foundational moment in physics and astronomy, illustrating the daily rotation of the planet. Educational activities and public science education celebrate these concepts, helping people understand how rotation affects timekeeping and celestial motion. The observance links historic scientific breakthroughs with ongoing education and curiosity about our planet’s motion and its physical implications.
Earth’s Rotation Day on January 8.
Celebrates 1851 demonstration of Earth’s rotation.
Foucault’s Pendulum as a historical device.
Connects physics with timekeeping and astronomy.
Encourages science education and public engagement.
African National Congress Foundation Day
African National Congress Foundation Day 2025 is observed on the 8th of January every year.
It was a turning point in African history that signalled the start of the end of the continent's long history of exploitation and subjugation.
Initially, the group was established on January 8, 1912, in Bloemfontein under the name South African Native National Congress (SANNC). Its objectives included defending the freedoms and rights of black South Africans and uniting all Africans as one people. This is done to grant Black and Multiracial South Africans complete voting rights. Moreover, it abolished the apartheid regime that was put in place by the National Party administration following their election victory in 1948.
BHU launches 121 INI‑Swayam courses for Jan–Apr 2026
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has launched 121 Institutes of National Importance (INI)‑SWAYAM online courses for the January–April 2026 session. BHU is offering 71 courses in January 2026, spanning sciences, engineering, management, medicine, education, humanities and interdisciplinary studies. AMU contributes 48 courses, with sessions beginning January 26 and February 16, 2026. SWAYAM is an Education Ministry initiative to provide free online education. The Rashtriya Raksha University provides two courses in Defence and Strategic Studies and Forensic Accounting. Interested learners can enrol via swayam.gov.in/INI for flexible, accessible higher learning.
BHU offers 121 INI‑SWAYAM courses for Jan–Apr 2026.
BHU: 71 courses in January; AMU: 48 courses.
SWAYAM is an Education Ministry online learning program.
Sessions start January 26 and February 16, 2026.
RRU offers two courses in Defence & Strategic Studies and Forensic Accounting.
Kerala Assembly International Book Festival inaugurated by CM Vijayan
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the fourth Kerala Assembly International Book Festival on January 7, with the event continuing through January 13 at the Legislative Assembly complex. The festival promises book launches, literary discussions, a students’ corner, a model assembly and cultural programmes including Theyyam, Kalaripayattu and Sangeetha Sandhya. Assembly Speaker Shamseer presided over the inauguration as Vijayan presented the Assembly Award to noted Malayalam writer N. S. Madhavan. The festival aims to celebrate reading, promote literary culture and engage students and families through a week of literary and cultural activities.
Fourth Kerala Assembly International Book Festival inaugurated.
Dates: January 7–13, 2026 at the Legislative Assembly complex.
Activities: book launches, discussions, student corner, model assembly.
Cultural programmes include Theyyam, Kalaripayattu, Sangeetha Sandhya.
Vijayan awards N. S. Madhavan for literary contributions.
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