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Daily G.K. - Top Stories

15 Jan 2026

DAILY G.K. TEST

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Israel withdraws from several UN agencies after US pullout

Israel announced the severing of formal contact with a group of United Nations agencies following the US withdrawal from multiple international bodies. The move cites perceived bias and politicisation within the agencies as a driver for the decision. The development aligns with Israel’s broader stance on international organisations and affects its cooperation with several UN bodies and related entities. The government indicated it would re-evaluate ongoing cooperation and pursue future arrangements after further consultations with relevant ministries. The decision comes in a climate of heightened geopolitical realignments across the region and global diplomacy.
  • Israel suspends contact with several UN agencies
  • Decision follows US withdrawal from multiple bodies
  • Cited concerns about bias and politicisation
  • Re-evaluation of ongoing cooperation with affected bodies
  • Possible broader regional diplomatic implications

US to pause immigrant visa processing for 75 countries from January 21

The United States State Department announced a broad pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. The measure targets applicants deemed likely to rely on public welfare, aiming to curb long-term welfare costs. Non-immigrant visas such as tourist and temporary work visas are not affected. Affected countries include Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, Russia, Somalia, and Thailand. Officials said the pause will last until procedures are reassessed to prevent the entry of individuals likely to become public charges. The decision marks one of the most significant shifts in U.S. immigration policy in recent years and has broad political implications.
  • Immigrant visa processing paused for 75 countries
  • Effective date: January 21, 2026
  • Non-immigrant visas remain unaffected
  • Countries affected include Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, Russia
  • Policy cited public welfare concerns; broader reassessment planned

India and France reaffirm strategic partnership at 38th Dialogue in New Delhi

During the 38th India-France Strategic Dialogue held in New Delhi, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Emmanuel Bonne, France’s Diplomatic Adviser, reaffirmed a deep and broad bilateral partnership. The discussions encompassed security, defence, technology, space, and civil nuclear cooperation, with a focus on Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Preparations for President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India were reviewed, and both sides underscored their commitment to regional and international stability. The dialogue highlighted ongoing collaboration and explored new opportunities in innovation, governance, and education aligned with the Year of Innovation in 2026.
  • 38th India-France Strategic Dialogue held in New Delhi
  • Co-chaired by Ajit Doval and Emmanuel Bonne
  • Topics: security, defence, technology, space, civil nuclear
  • Discussed Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat cooperation
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ENVIRONMENT

Rajasthan panchayat becomes first fully organic village body

Bamanwas Kankar panchayat in Rajasthan has achieved a first by becoming fully organic certified. Located in Kotputli-Behror district, the panchayat covers seven hamlets and has addressed soil degradation and groundwater concerns while tackling chemical-based farming health issues. Certification marks a milestone in sustainable rural governance and organic farming adoption across local government bodies. The move reflects broader state and national efforts to promote environmentally friendly agriculture and safer food production. Community leaders say the certification provides a model for other panchayats seeking to enhance soil health, water conservation, and public health outcomes through organic practices.
  • First fully organic village panchayat in Rajasthan
  • Located in Kotputli-Behror district; seven hamlets served
  • Efforts target soil degradation and groundwater recovery
  • Certification signals scalable model for others
  • Supports broader national push for sustainable farming

Jal Shakti Minister inaugurates aquatic biodiversity initiatives under Namami Gange

Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil inaugurated a series of aquatic biodiversity initiatives under the Namami Gange Mission in Dehradun and at wildlife units. He launched the Aqua Life Conservation Monitoring Centre for the Ganga and other rivers, designed for scientific monitoring, research, and policy guidance on freshwater biodiversity. The centre features ecotoxicology, aquatic ecology, and microplastic labs. A Dolphin Rescue Ambulance was also unveiled to respond to injuries to Ganga dolphins, reinforcing concerns about river health and conservation. The minister highlighted treating rivers as living ecosystems rather than mere water channels and pledged ongoing support for biodiversity programs.
  • Aqua Life Conservation Monitoring Centre launched
  • Namami Gange aquatic biodiversity initiatives
  • Dolphin Rescue Ambulance unveiled
  • Centre supports science-based river health monitoring
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BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

TVS SCS appoints Vikas Chadha as Global CEO from January 22, 2026

TVS Supply Chain Solutions announced the appointment of Vikas Chadha as Global CEO, effective January 22, 2026. Chadha succeeds Ravi Viswanathan, who will retire during the 2026–27 financial year. The leadership transition follows a formal succession process led by the board and its Nomination and Remuneration Committee. Previously CEO at Dubai-based Jumbo Electronics, Chadha brings extensive international experience to TVS SCS as it scales its supply chain and logistics services globally. The announcement highlighted continuity in strategy and the company’s ongoing focus on expanding global footprints and enhancing operational excellence.
  • Vikas Chadha appointed Global CEO of TVS SCS, effective Jan 22, 2026.
  • Succeeds Ravi Viswanathan, who retires in 2026–27.
  • Chadha previously led Jumbo Electronics (Dubai).
  • Board-led succession process ensured leadership continuity.
  • Aims to expand global footprint and operational excellence.

Swiggy and Zepto drop '10-minute' delivery claim after government order

Swiggy and Zepto have altered branding around their '10-minute' delivery service following a government directive. The government ordered Eternal's Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy to stop promoting grocery deliveries as a '10-minute' service due to safety concerns about riders and wage implications for rapid deliveries. Industry analysts describe the branding change as optics-driven rather than fundamentally altering business models. The move highlights regulatory scrutiny in the fast-delivery segment, which remains valued at about $11.5 billion. Despite branding adjustments, analysts say core delivery capabilities and logistics networks remain largely unchanged, though operators will need to emphasize safety and fair compensation.
  • Regulators require removal of '10-minute' branding claims
  • Concerns over rider safety and wages cited
  • Industries see branding changes as optics-driven
  • Fast-delivery market valued at ~$11.5 billion
  • Core operations remain unless further policy actions occur

IOCL-BPCL JV discovers oil in Abu Dhabi Onshore Block 1

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Bharat Petroleum’s exploration arm, Bharat PetroResources (BPCL), through the Urja Bharat Pte Limited venture, reported new oil discoveries in Abu Dhabi’s Onshore Block 1. UBPL, a 50:50 SPV, completed the exploration phase after investing about $166 million since securing the concession in 2019. The latest finds include unconventional oil resources in the Shilaif play (XN-76) and exploratory well XN-79 02S (Habshan carbonate). The block spans roughly 6,162 square kilometres, with UBPL holding full concession rights. The discoveries strengthen India’s overseas upstream portfolio and energy security strategy.
  • IOCL-BPCL joint venture UBPL discovers oil in Abu Dhabi
  • Block Onshore 1; 50:50 SPV UBPL
  • Invested ~$166 million since 2019 concession
  • Finds include Shilaif play XN-76 and XN-79 02S
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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

MeitY organises BHASHINI Samudaye workshop to strengthen language AI

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology hosted the BHASHINI Samudaye workshop in New Delhi to enhance India’s language AI ecosystem under the National Language Translation Mission. The Digital India BHASHINI Division brought together language experts, academia, civil society, and data practitioners to co-create and govern language AI solutions. Discussions covered scaling BHASHINI, platform roadmaps, data governance, and long-term collaboration to ensure inclusive public services. The event showcased examples like BhashaDaan and highlighted responsible data practices while seeking partnerships with states and institutions to advance multilingual governance and education through AI.
  • BHASHINI Samudaye workshop organized by MeitY
  • Focus on strengthening language AI under NLTM
  • Participants include language experts, academia, civil society
  • Discussions on scaling BHASHINI and data governance
View Month Wise

SPORTS

Aritra Roy completes solo ascent of Mount Aconcagua, 6,967.15 metres

Indian mountaineer Aritra Roy has completed a solo ascent of Mount Aconcagua in Argentina, the highest peak outside Asia, at 6,967.15 metres above mean sea level. This achievement advances Roy’s Seven Summits challenge and follows his earlier Everest ascent. He reached the summit on 7 January 2026 at 2:00 pm local time after a grueling 44-kilometre trek through high-altitude terrain and extreme cold. Roy spent about 45 minutes at the summit before beginning the descent. The expedition was fully sponsored by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), with HAL’s leadership praising the feat as a landmark in Indian mountaineering. The climb underscores Indian athletes’ growing presence in extreme environments.
  • Solo ascent of Mount Aconcagua completed
  • Height: 6,967.15 metres
  • Date and time of summit: 7 January 2026, 2:00 pm
  • Part of Seven Summits challenge; following Everest
  • HAL funded the expedition

Mitchell Starc reacts to Alyssa Healy retirement from international cricket

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc expressed pride after batswoman Alyssa Healy announced her retirement from international cricket. Healy will miss the T20I leg of Australia’s upcoming series against India but will participate in the ODI series and the day-night Test at the WACA, where she will earn her 11th Test cap. Healy cited a desire to move on after feeling she had lost competitive edge and believed retirement is the right step. Starc shared a supportive message, posting a photo and caption that reflected his admiration for Healy’s career and influence as a leader in Australia’s women’s cricket team.
  • Alyssa Healy retires from international cricket
  • Retirement after a perceived loss of competitive edge
  • Misses T20I leg vs India; plays ODI and final Test at WACA
  • 11th Test cap acknowledged at day-night Test
  • Mitchell Starc expresses pride and support
View Month Wise

NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Lok Sabha Speaker chairs CSPOC meeting at Red Fort, Delhi

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla chaired the Standing Committee meeting of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) at the Red Fort in Delhi. The session emphasised strengthening parliamentary democracies through dialogue, innovation, and collaboration. The 28th CSPOC will convene as a global platform to discuss governance, interparliamentary cooperation, and reform initiatives. The meeting, attended by parliamentary leaders, highlighted the committee’s oversight of CSPOC activities and governance framework, including quorum requirements. Birla tweeted about the importance of international parliamentary cooperation and shared the committee’s agenda for future engagements and policy exchanges.
  • CSPOC Standing Committee meeting chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker
  • Venue: Red Fort, Delhi; focus on democracy, dialogue, innovation
  • 28th CSPOC to be a global platform for collaboration
  • Quorum and governance procedures discussed
  • Birla highlights international parliamentary cooperation
View Month Wise

DEFENCE

Coast Guards of India and Japan discuss maritime cooperation

The Coast Guards of India and Japan held a high-level meeting to explore enhanced maritime cooperation, including search and rescue, marine pollution response, and law enforcement. The delegations, led by Paramesh Sivamani (ICG DG) and Admiral Yoshio Saguchi (Japan Coast Guard), reaffirmed a strong bilateral maritime partnership. A Japan Coast Guard National Strike Team will visit Mumbai to conduct joint exercises with ICG’s pollution response unit, focusing on hazardous substances response. The discussions emphasized information sharing, interoperability, and continued engagements under the existing memorandum of cooperation to strengthen regional maritime security.
  • ICG-JCG high-level meeting on maritime cooperation
  • Focus on search and rescue, pollution response, law enforcement
  • NST to conduct joint exercises in Mumbai
  • Emphasis on interoperability and structured engagements

Air Force Station Pune hosts 10th Defence Forces Veterans Day

Air Force Station Pune marked the 10th Defence Forces Veterans Day on January 14, honouring the service of veterans from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The event featured a wreath-laying ceremony and interactions with veterans and their families. Maharashtra’s Higher and Technical Education Minister, Chandrakant Patil, attended as chief guest along with senior officers from the Southern Command and NDA. The gathering underscored ongoing commitments to veterans’ welfare and a continuing legacy of defence service. The day showcased the importance of veteran communities in national security and resilience.
  • Defence Forces Veterans Day observed in Pune
  • Wreath-laying and veterans’ interactions held
  • Attended by government and defence leaders
  • Emphasizes ongoing support for veterans

ADMM-Plus experts meet in Delhi to discuss CT cooperation

The 16th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus Experts Working Group on Counter Terrorism and Final Planning Conference opened in New Delhi. Co-chaired by India and Malaysia, the session united defence officials from ASEAN member states and 7 dialogue partners to strengthen regional security and counter-terrorism cooperation. The event will run from January 14 to 16, with a focus on coordinated strategies, information sharing, and joint exercises. India highlighted its significant role in leading CT planning while continuing collaboration with partner nations to address evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • ADMM-Plus EWG on Counter Terrorism in New Delhi
  • Co-chaired by India and Malaysia
  • Participants from ASEAN and 7 partners
  • CT planning and joint exercises on the agenda
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PERSONS IN NEWS

Dilbert creator Scott Adams dies at 68 after cancer battle

Scott Adams, American cartoonist and creator of the Dilbert comic strip, died at age 68 after a battle with cancer. His death was announced by his ex-wife during a livestream of his podcast. Adams disclosed in May 2025 that he had prostate cancer, which later spread to his bones, and he had been receiving end-of-life care. He also spoke publicly about health complications including heart failure and reduced mobility. Adams’ Dilbert cartoons, known for satirical depictions of corporate culture, left a lasting imprint on popular culture and workplace humor. His passing marks the end of an era for a generation of readers and fans.
  • Scott Adams died at age 68
  • Cancer progression reported; prostate cancer diagnosed in 2025
  • Ex-wife announced the death on a livestream
  • Dilbert and its satire influenced global popular culture
  • Public health battles highlighted in late life

Swiss snowboarder Ueli Kestenholz dies in Alpine avalanche

Ueli Kestenholz, a prominent Swiss snowboarder who won bronze at Nagano’s 1998 Olympic snowboarding event, died following an avalanche in the Swiss Alps. The avalanche occurred in the Lötschental Valley while Kestenholz was snowboarding with a friend. Police reported the incident without a confirmed cause. Kestenholz was 50 years old and remembered for his competitive achievements and contributions to the sport. His passing is a notable loss for the European winter sports community, prompting tributes from fellow athletes and fans who admired his performance and resilience in challenging mountain conditions.
  • Ueli Kestenholz died in an avalanche in the Swiss Alps
  • Bronze medalist at 1998 Nagano Olympics
  • Avalanche occurred in Lötschental Valley; partner present
  • Age 50 at time of death
  • Congregation of tributes from the snow sports community

Pawan Kalyan named first Samurai from Andhra Pradesh in Japan honours

Andhra Pradesh deputy chief minister and Jana Sena Party president K. Pawan Kalyan has been named the first Samurai from Andhra Pradesh in a set of Japanese martial arts recognitions. He received the fifth dan (5th Dan) from the Sogo Budo Kanri Kai and was inducted into the Takeda Shingen Clan outside Japan, a rare honour for non-Japanese practitioners. The Golden Dragons organisation awarded him the title 'Tiger of Martial Arts' in acknowledgment of his lifelong dedication to martial discipline and philosophy. These recognitions position Kalyan as a unique cultural ambassador from Andhra Pradesh in international martial arts circles.
  • K. Pawan Kalyan awarded 5th Dan by Sogo Budo Kanri Kai
  • Inducted into Takeda Shingen Clan (outside Japan)
  • Honourary title 'Tiger of Martial Arts' by Golden Dragons
  • First Samurai from Andhra Pradesh in these recognitions
  • Recognition highlights cross-cultural achievements
View Month Wise

DAYS AND EVENTS

Indian Army Day 2026 celebrated with Jaipur public parade

India marked its 78th Army Day on January 15, 2026, with a public parade in Jaipur for the first time outside a cantonment area since 2023. Lieutenant General KM Cariappa, who became India's first Commander-in-Chief in 1949, is honored on Army Day for shaping post-independence defence leadership. The Jaipur parade showcased the Indian Army’s discipline, technology, and operational capabilities, and included a local and national audience. Expectation of gallantry award announcements and tributes to veterans accompanied the celebrations. Schools and institutions nationwide organized events to highlight the Army’s role in national security, reflecting ongoing emphasis on defence-there and public engagement.
  • Army Day 2026 observed on January 15
  • Main parade held in Jaipur; first outside Delhi/cantonments
  • Commemorates Lieutenant General KM Cariappa’s 1949 leadership
  • Gallantry awards announced; veterans honoured
  • Nationwide events emphasize defence and public engagement

Arjun Ram Meghwal to preside over National Youth Parliament prize distribution

The Prize Distribution Function of the 26th National Youth Parliament Competition for Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas will be held on January 15, 2026, in New Delhi. Minister of State for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal will preside over the event, distributing prizes to top Vidyalayas. The competition, organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs for 29 years, aims to foster self-discipline, debate skills, leadership, and democratic values among students. The 2024-25 edition involved 88 Vidyalayas across eight regions. The ceremony will feature a repeat performance of a student program by the winning Navodaya Vidyalaya, highlighting the scheme’s long-term impact on youth education.
  • Prize distribution for 26th National Youth Parliament
  • Date: 15 January 2026; venue: New Delhi
  • Meghwal to preside over function
  • Involves 88 Vidyalayas; aims to nurture leadership and debate
View Month Wise

AWARDS AND HONOURS

Karnataka Bank wins IBA award for fintech and DPI adoption

Karnataka Bank has won the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) Banking Technology Award in the Best Fintech & DPI Adoption category. The bank also finished as runner-up in Best Tech Talent and earned Special Mentions in Best Technology Bank, Best Digital Financial Inclusion, and Best Digital Sales. The recognitions reflect the bank’s investment in digital transformation, customer-centric tech adoption, and inclusive financial services. Industry experts view the awards as validation of Karnataka Bank’s technology strategy and its ability to integrate fintech solutions to improve accessibility, efficiency, and customer experience across its network.
  • Karnataka Bank wins IBA award for fintech adoption
  • Runner-up in Best Tech Talent; Special Mentions in several categories
  • Awards reflect digital transformation and inclusion
View Month Wise

GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND SCHEMES

Tripura Gramin Bank launches India's first solar-powered ATM van

Tripura Gramin Bank has rolled out India's first solar-powered ATM van, a milestone for rural banking and financial inclusion. The mobile unit is designed to operate in remote pockets where grid electricity can be unreliable, expanding access to cash withdrawal and other banking services across Tripura’s interior districts. Marketing Head Jeet Bhattacharya said the initiative demonstrates the bank’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive finance. The project earned the SKOCH Silver Award for innovative governance, highlighting its national significance. Tripura Gramin Bank currently operates three solar-powered ATM vans and serves about 150 branches across the state, supporting eco-friendly, uninterrupted banking in challenging terrain. The van’s inauguration, historically led by senior policymakers, set a benchmark in Tripura’s financial inclusion drive.
  • First solar-powered ATM van in India, targeting rural Tripura
  • Extends banking access to electricity-scarce areas
  • Three vans in operation; about 150 branches covered
  • SKOCH Silver Award for innovative governance
  • Inauguration linked to national policy visibility

DFS launches composite salary account package for central government employees

The Department of Financial Services (DFS), under the Finance Ministry, launched a composite Salary Account Package for central government employees. The package combines banking services, insurance, and cards into a single account structure to simplify operations for Group A, B, and C cadres. The initiative aims to enhance financial well-being and social security, with features such as personal accident insurance up to Rs 1.50 crore and air accident cover up to Rs 2 crore. Zero-balance accounts, preferential loan terms for housing, education, and vehicles, and broader accessibility are included. The package was announced by DFS Secretary M Nagaraju with senior bank officials in attendance.
  • Composite Salary Account Package for central employees
  • Includes banking, insurance, and cards in one package
  • Personal accident insurance up to Rs 1.50 crore; air cover Rs 2 crore
  • Zero-balance accounts with enhanced facilities
View Month Wise

GENDER/ HEALTH/ EDUCATION

Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima launched for CGHS beneficiaries

The Department of Financial Services unveiled the Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima for Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) beneficiaries. The policy provides cashless inpatient care and access to a wide hospital network, with sum insured options of Rs 10 lakh or Rs 20 lakh. A co-payment component allows cost-sharing between insurers and subscribers (70:30 or 50:50). The retail product will be offered through New India Assurance Company and its online platform, without GST to keep costs affordable for CGHS beneficiaries, and is available to CGHS members up to six people per policy. The measure aims to improve health security and accessibility.
  • Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima launched for CGHS
  • Cashless inpatient coverage; networks of hospitals included
  • Sum insured: Rs 10 lakh or Rs 20 lakh
  • Co-payment options: 70:30 or 50:50

81 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs inaugurated in Delhi; total rises to 319

Delhi government inaugurated 81 new Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), increasing the total to 319 across the national capital. Chief Minister highlighted these facilities bring free, modern healthcare closer to residents, with a focus on rapid service delivery at multiple locations such as Janakpuri. The AAM network is part of a broader push to expand access to healthcare under the Ayushman Bharat scheme at the community level. Officials noted the rapid build-out within 11 months, reflecting the government’s commitment to accessibility, affordability, and preventive care for city residents.
  • 81 new Ayushman Arogya Mandirs opened in Delhi
  • Total AAMs now 319 across the capital
  • Focus on free, modern healthcare at local centers
  • Rapid expansion within 11 months
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