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Daily G.K. - Top Stories

14 Jan 2026

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India and Germany sign pact to boost postal and logistics ties for cross-border e-commerce

India and Germany signed a bilateral pact to deepen cooperation in postal, express, and logistics services, with a strong emphasis on cross-border e-commerce and time-definite international deliveries. The statement noted that the agreement could raise export volumes, improve service quality, and integrate Indian firms into global value chains by strengthening access to international markets. The Ministry of Communications cited the exchange of two key instruments in January 2026 in Ahmedabad during the visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India. The pact envisages joint premium express products leveraging India Post’s reach and the Deutsche Post–DHL network to speed up shipments.

Bilateral pact in postal, express, and logistics services
Focused on cross-border e-commerce and timely deliveries
Joint premium international express products planned
India Post and Deutsche Post–DHL to cooperate for faster transit
Significant step in expanding India-Germany logistics collaboration

India launches BRICS Presidency 2026 website and branding

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar unveiled the BRICS Presidency 2026 portal, along with the official theme and logo. The event, attended by key cabinet ministers, marks India’s chairmanship of BRICS this year. The BRICS bloc includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with broader regional and global governance implications. Officials described the branding as reflecting inclusivity and shared growth, while highlighting three pillars: Political-Security cooperation, Economic and Financial partnership, and People-to-People exchanges. The website will host agendas, events, and policy dialogues for BRICS partners and observers.

BRICS Presidency 2026 website launched
India chairs BRICS in 2026
Branding emphasizes inclusivity and growth
Three pillars: political-security, economic-financial, people-to-people
Portal to host agendas and events for BRICS partners

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ENVIRONMENT

India launches airside reefer truck at Hyderabad airport

GMR Aero Cargo and Logistics unveiled India’s first airside reefer truck at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. The vehicle maintains uninterrupted temperature control during ramp transfers, ensuring cold-chain integrity for perishables, pharmaceuticals, and biological products. The new system addresses long-standing challenges in airside temperature management by reducing exposure and maintaining product quality from terminal to aircraft. Industry insiders see the development as a meaningful step in improving logistics efficiency and reliability for time-sensitive cargo moving through major gateways.

First airside reefer truck launched at RGIA, Hyderabad
Maintains continuous temperature during ramp transfers
Strengthens cold-chain integrity for sensitive cargo
Reduces exposure during cargo handling
Aims to improve logistics efficiency at airports

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BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

Nissan strengthens India leadership with Sabbagh appointment

Nissan announced a leadership reshuffle in its AMIEO region, expanding Thierry Sabbagh’s responsibilities to include India as Divisional Vice President and President for Middle East, KSA, CIS, and India—Nissan and Infiniti. The changes take effect on January 1, 2026. The company frames India as central to its 2026 plan, with a forecast of three new models—GRAVITE, TEKTON, and a 7-seater C-SUV—within 14 to 16 months. The move underlines Nissan’s push to regain momentum in the Indian market and strengthen its manufacturing, sales, and after-sales footprint across the region.

Thierry Sabbagh appointed Divisional VP and President for India
Effective January 1, 2026; India central to 2026 plan
Three new models expected within 14–16 months
Strategic emphasis on refreshed operations in AMIEO region
India leadership move signals growth ambitions

Karnataka Bank enables Khajane-2 payments via net banking

Karnataka Bank announced it has enabled Khajane-2 government e-receipts payments through its internet banking platform. The move aligns with state and central digital payment initiatives, offering customers a secure and convenient way to settle government receipts. The bank emphasized its commitment to digital services, aiming to simplify transactions for individuals and businesses, while reinforcing security and reliability. The feature complements existing mobile and branch-based payment options and is expected to improve user experience and reduce processing times for government payments.

Karnataka Bank enables Khajane-2 payments via net banking
Aligns with state and central digital payment initiatives
Aims to simplify government receipts for customers
Emphasis on security, reliability, and convenience
Supports digital transformation in public finance

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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Sentynl drug for Menkes disease gains U.S. FDA nod

Sentynl Therapeutics, a Zydus Lifesciences subsidiary, received U.S. FDA approval for Zycubo (copper histidinate) to treat Menkes disease in paediatric patients. This marks the first and currently the only approved treatment for a rare, fatal genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism in children. Zydus stated that the approval could offer a critical therapeutic option for affected families and may stimulate further research into metabolic disease management. The development highlights ongoing biopharmaceutical innovation and the global interest in rare disease therapies.

FDA approves Zycubo (copper histidinate) for Menkes disease
First and only approved treatment in the U.S.
Significant milestone for Sentynl and Zydus Lifesciences
Potential impact on rare disease management
Could spur further research in metabolic disorders

KAIST researchers reprogram tumor immune cells to fight cancer

Researchers at KAIST developed a method to reprogram immune cells inside tumors into cancer-fighting agents. A drug injected directly into the tumor is taken up by macrophages, prompting them to attack cancer cells and activate nearby immune responses. This approach avoids lab-based cell extraction and modification. In animal models, the strategy slowed tumor growth and elicited strong anticancer immune activity. The team, led by Professor Ji-Ho Park, believes the technique could offer a new pathway for treating solid tumors and could complement existing therapies in humans after further testing.

KAIST method reprograms tumor macrophages to attack cancer
Direct intratumoral drug activates immune response
No need for ex vivo cell manipulation
Shown to slow tumor growth in animal models
Potential new avenue for solid tumor therapies

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SPORTS

Manchester United appoints Michael Carrick as head coach for season

Manchester United appointed Michael Carrick as head coach through the season after Ruben Amorim’s departure. The former United midfielder has previously served as a player and interim coach, bringing experience from inside the club. Carrick’s appointment comes during a challenging period for the team, with stressing results under review. His leadership is expected to stabilise performances and implement a tactical approach aligned with the club’s long-term objectives. Fans await a resurgence in form as Carrick prepares to lead training and selection on match days while the club pursues positive results.

Michael Carrick appointed head coach until season end
Former player and interim coach previously associated with United
Appointment during a period of team performance challenges
Expectation of stabilised performances and tactical changes
Focus on lifting results for remaining fixtures

SG Pipers clinch Women’s Hockey India League title

SG Pipers won the Women’s Hockey India League 2025–26 title, defeating Shrachi Bengal Tigers 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The final delivered high drama, with early goals, tense exchanges, and a decisive shootout. Pipers goalkeeper Bansari Solanki starred with crucial saves, including a stoppage-time penalty stroke stop, while Navneet Kaur was named Player of the Tournament. Agustina Gorzelany of Bengal Tigers finished as top scorer. The victory earned the team ₹1.5 crore in prize money, capping a season defined by resilience and clutch performances.

SG Pipers win Women’s Hockey India League title
Final ended 1-1; decided on penalties
Bansari Solanki named Best Goalkeeper
Navneet Kaur Player of the Tournament
Prize money: ₹1.5 crore

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DEFENCE

Garuda Aerospace and BEL sign MoU for defence UAS supply

Chennai-based Garuda Aerospace and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate on supplying Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to Indian Defence Forces, Central Police Organizations, and security agencies. BEL will act as team leader and lead bidder, while Garuda will serve as technology and teaming partner. The agreement sets a framework for collaboration on future procurement, production, and integration of UAS capabilities to enhance India’s defence and security operations. The pact reflects ongoing efforts to build domestic capabilities in advanced aerospace systems.

Garuda Aerospace and BEL sign UAS cooperation MoU
Target: defence forces, CPOs, and security groups
BEL as Team Leader; Garuda as technology partner
Framework for procurement and production of UAS
Supports domestic aerospace capability development

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PERSONS IN NEWS

Meta appoints Dina Powell McCormick as president and vice chairman

Meta Platforms named Dina Powell McCormick as its president and vice chairman, enhancing the company’s leadership and lobbying capabilities in the US capital. Powell McCormick, a former Trump administration official, was praised by President Donald Trump in a Truth Social post for her performance in public life. The appointment aligns with Meta’s ongoing strategic shifts, including investments in frontier AI and related data-center initiatives. Meta’s board underscored McCormick’s track record in corporate leadership and governance as part of strengthening the firm’s global operational and policy initiatives.

Dina Powell McCormick named Meta president and vice chairman
Former Trump administration official appointed
Relation to increases in lobbying and policy efforts
Company cites governance and leadership strengths
Move coincides with Meta’s AI and data-center investments

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AWARDS AND HONOURS

Dempo receives Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia from Italy

Shrinivas Dempo, chairperson of the Dempo Group, was conferred the Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy) for his role in assisting Italian citizens and investments in Goa. The ceremony, held in Goa, was conducted by the Italian consul general in Mumbai, Walter Ferrara. Dempo also serves as honorary vice consul of Italy in Goa and helped facilitate support for Italian nationals in the state. The honour recognizes his contributions to fostering Italy-India ties at the state level.

Dempo awarded Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy
Recognition for aiding Italian citizens and investments
Ceremony held in Goa; consul general attended
Dempo serves as honorary Italy vice consul in Goa
Highlighting India-Italy ties at the regional level

KSTA bestows Lifetime Achievement Award on two senior scientists

The Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA) conferred its Lifetime Achievement Award on two senior scientists, recognizing their sustained contributions to science and technology. Prof. C.N.R. Rao received a KSTA award bearing a gold medal and cash prize, while Dr. Ramakrishna, former director of the Zoological Survey of India, was also honoured. The ceremony highlighted decades of research, leadership, and mentoring that advanced scientific understanding. Award recipients received ₹2 lakh gold medals and ₹1 lakh cash as part of the prize package, with KSTA underscoring the importance of sustained scientific advancement.

KSTA Lifetime Achievement Award announced
Prof. C.N.R. Rao among the recipients
Dr. Ramakrishna also honoured for contributions
Awards include gold medals and cash prizes
Celebrates long-term leadership and research achievements

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GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND SCHEMES

ICAR and NDDB sign MoU to boost dairy research and innovation

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration in multidisciplinary research, innovation, and capacity building across the dairy sector. The partnership aims to combine ICAR’s scientific expertise with NDDB’s field-level experience to address challenges from climate resilience to value chain development. Emphasis will be on knowledge sharing, technology validation, human resource development, and joint training for researchers, professionals, and farmers. Officials expect the alliance to foster new dairy technologies, strengthen demonstrations for farmers, and accelerate uptake of best practices through coordinated extension and capacity-building programs nationwide.

MoU between ICAR and NDDB for dairy sector collaboration
Focus on multidisciplinary research, innovation, and capacity building
Emphasis on climate resilience, productivity, and value chains
Joint training and knowledge sharing for researchers, professionals, and farmers
Plan to validate technologies through field-level demonstrations

Dagadarthi airport in Nellore gets Cabinet approval

The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet approved the Dagadarthi Greenfield Airport in Nellore district, paving the way for the state’s eighth airport. The project aims to bolster aviation, industry, and logistics infrastructure by linking to major ports and industrial zones, including Krishnapatnam Port, Ramayapatnam Port, and KRIS City. The Ministry of Civil Aviation gave in-principle clearance, and the RFP has been issued to invite private participation under a long-term concession framework. The decision is expected to improve regional connectivity and attract investment, aligning with the state’s broader development and logistics integration plans.

Dagadarthi Greenfield Airport approved in Nellore
Aims to boost aviation, industry, and logistics
Connections to major ports and industrial zones planned
MoCA in-principle clearance; RFP issued
Long-term concession framework to invite private partners

TTD launches QR-based footwear management at Tirumala

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) unveiled a QR code–based footwear management system at the Tarigonda Vengamamba Anna Prasadam Complex. The initiative aims to reduce misplaced footwear and improve pilgrim convenience by providing digital tracking and quick retrieval. The inauguration, led by TTD’s Additional Executive Officer Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary, marks a move toward modernizing temple infrastructure with user-friendly, contactless technologies. Pilgrims will experience smoother footwear handling, while the system enables better crowd management in the pilgrimage precincts.

QR-based footwear management launched at Tirumala
Aims to reduce misplacement and improve retrieval
Digital tracking enhances pilgrim convenience
Inauguration by TTD official Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary
Represents modernization of temple infrastructure

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GENDER/ HEALTH/ EDUCATION

A.P. Red Cross signs MoU to strengthen Thalassemia care

The Andhra Pradesh branch of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) signed an MoU with Bengaluru-based Sankalp India Foundation to strengthen Thalassemia and sickle cell care for children. The agreement was signed in the presence of IRCS officials and aims to expand screening, treatment, and support services for affected families. The collaboration seeks to improve access to cost-effective therapies and raise awareness about hereditary blood disorders, combining NGO expertise with IRCS’ community network to improve patient outcomes and reduce financial burdens on families.

IRCS Andhra Pradesh signs MoU with Sankalp India Foundation
Focus on Thalassemia and sickle cell care for children
Aims to expand screening and treatment services
Collaborative effort to improve access and awareness
Utilizes NGO networks to support affected families

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ART AND CULTURE

4-day All India Major Port Cultural Meet concludes

The 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet 2025–26 concluded after four days at Paradip Port. Organized by Paradip Port Authority and Major Ports Sports Control Board, around 200 artistes from nine ports participated. Team Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority emerged as overall champions, with Mumbai Port Authority as runners-up and Deendayal Port Authority along with Cochin Port Authority as second runners-up. The event showcased diverse cultural programs and reinforced cultural exchanges among major ports, underscoring the sector’s broader social and economic role beyond trade.

Four-day cultural meet ends at Paradip Port
Around 200 artistes from nine major ports participated
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority won overall
Mumbai Port Authority was runner-up
Event highlights port culture and inter-port exchanges

Mandu Festival to return with tent city and extended activities

The Mandu Festival is returning with a tent city and extended tourist activities after a three-year hiatus. The state tourism department, in coordination with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, plans to set up a tent city around Mandu and Tamia to broaden visitor experiences. The Mandu festival is expected to begin late January or February, with ongoing activities planned for nearly three months. Organisers said the tent city approach would enhance the festival’s international appeal and provide a longer, immersive experience for domestic and foreign visitors.

Mandu Festival returns with tent city concept
Extended tourist activities planned for Mandu and Tamia
Tent city to operate for nearly three months
Festival timing expected from late January or February
Aims to broaden international and domestic appeal

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BOOKS AND AUTHORS

New book on puberphonia by M. S. Kumaresan released

A new medical book on puberphonia by ENT surgeon and Siva ENT Head and Neck Hospital director M. S. Kumaresan was released. The publication discusses clinical approaches and long-term outcomes in managing the voice disorder. The release event featured K. Sridharan, Chancellor of Kalasalingam University, who presented the work to A. P. Red Cross and medical engineering experts. The book consolidates contemporary practices and case studies, providing a practical reference for clinicians, speech therapists, and medical students dealing with puberphonia in adolescent patients.

New medical book on puberphonia by M. S. Kumaresan
Discusses clinical management and outcomes
Release attended by academic and medical leaders
Target audience includes clinicians and therapists
Provides practical reference with case studies

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TOURISM AND HOTEL INDUSTRY AWARENESS

UP to award rural tourism champions

The Uttar Pradesh tourism department announced the State Tourism Awards 2026 to recognise rural tourism champions. Categories include best tourism village, best rural homestay, and best farm stay, with gold, silver, and bronze awards. Registrations are open until 20 January. Tourism minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted UP’s progress in agri and rural tourism, noting more villages, families, and farm stays joining the program. The awards aim to encourage sustainable, community-led tourism and to showcase authentic rural experiences to visitors seeking cultural and ecological authenticity.

State Tourism Awards 2026 for rural tourism
Categories: best village, best homestay, best farm stay
Registrations open until 20 January
Officials emphasise community-led and sustainable tourism
Aims to promote authentic rural experiences

DHR to start 34 km Jungle Safari in Darjeeling area

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) announced a 34-kilometer Jungle Safari from Siliguri to Gayabari and back. The trial run took place recently, with formal operations planned to start on 17 January, operating on weekends. The service, priced at ₹500, will feature three coaches and be hauled by a diesel engine. Passengers will travel through forested scenery and notable viewpoints, including the Agony Point Loop. DHR director Rishav Choudhary described the route as an affordable, immersive way to experience the region’s natural beauty while supporting heritage rail tourism.

DHR announces 34 km Jungle Safari
Trial run completed; formal start on 17 January
Weekend operation with three coaches
Ticket price set at ₹500
Promotes heritage rail tourism and forest experiences

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LAW AND CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS

RBI issues FEMA Regulations 2026 with new guarantee norms

The Reserve Bank of India issued the Foreign Exchange Management (Guarantees) Regulations, 2026, effective from the Gazette date of January 6, 2026. The new rules restrict Indian residents from offering guarantees for non-residents unless explicitly permitted. The definition of a guarantee now covers counter-guarantees and portfolios of liabilities, with certain exemptions for authorised dealer (AD) bank branches abroad and international financial centres (IFSCs). Additional exemptions apply for specific contract types. Residents may act as sureties if underlying transactions comply with FEMA. The regulations mandate quarterly reporting of guarantees, with penalties for late filing.

FEMA Regulations 2026 issued by RBI
Restrictions on guarantees involving non-residents
Broader definition of 'guarantee' with exemptions
Exemptions for AD banks abroad and IFSCs
Quarterly reporting and late filing penalties

Sikkim ends physical permits; online clearance mandatory for foreigners

The Sikkim government implemented online clearance for foreign tourists visiting protected and restricted areas, phasing out all physical permits. The policy follows Home Ministry directions and requires permits to be issued digitally through the designated online permit cell. Foreigners may still visit Tsomgo Lake in East Sikkim, Yumthang Valley, and Zero Point in North Sikkim with online permits. Officials emphasized that there will be no physical permit documents, simplifying and accelerating the process for permitted locations while maintaining security checks for sensitive areas.

Physical permits for foreigners in Sikkim phased out
Online clearance mandatory for protected/restricted areas
Permits issued digitally through online permit cell
Some sites allowed with online permits (e.g., Tsomgo Lake, Yumthang Valley, Zero Point)
Policy aligns with national security and administrative modernization

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General Awareness

Daily G.K. - Top Stories

14 Jan 2026

DAILY G.K. TEST

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India and Germany sign pact to boost postal and logistics ties for cross-border e-commerce

India launches BRICS Presidency 2026 website and branding

ENVIRONMENT

India launches airside reefer truck at Hyderabad airport

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

Nissan strengthens India leadership with Sabbagh appointment

Karnataka Bank enables Khajane-2 payments via net banking

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Sentynl drug for Menkes disease gains U.S. FDA nod

KAIST researchers reprogram tumor immune cells to fight cancer

SPORTS

Manchester United appoints Michael Carrick as head coach for season

SG Pipers clinch Women’s Hockey India League title

DEFENCE

Garuda Aerospace and BEL sign MoU for defence UAS supply

PERSONS IN NEWS

Meta appoints Dina Powell McCormick as president and vice chairman

AWARDS AND HONOURS

Dempo receives Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia from Italy

KSTA bestows Lifetime Achievement Award on two senior scientists

GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND SCHEMES

ICAR and NDDB sign MoU to boost dairy research and innovation

Dagadarthi airport in Nellore gets Cabinet approval

TTD launches QR-based footwear management at Tirumala

GENDER/ HEALTH/ EDUCATION

A.P. Red Cross signs MoU to strengthen Thalassemia care

ART AND CULTURE

4-day All India Major Port Cultural Meet concludes

Mandu Festival to return with tent city and extended activities

BOOKS AND AUTHORS

New book on puberphonia by M. S. Kumaresan released

TOURISM AND HOTEL INDUSTRY AWARENESS

UP to award rural tourism champions

DHR to start 34 km Jungle Safari in Darjeeling area

LAW AND CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS

RBI issues FEMA Regulations 2026 with new guarantee norms

Sikkim ends physical permits; online clearance mandatory for foreigners

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