RBI and ESMA sign MoU on central counterparty cooperation
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation on central counterparties (CCPs). The MoU enables ESMA to rely on RBI’s supervisory framework for cross-border clearing and facilitates access for EU members to Indian CCPs via mutual recognition. RBI and ESMA emphasised shared goals of safer, more resilient, and open financial markets. Discussions continue with India’s SEBI and IFSCA to extend similar arrangements, reflecting ongoing international coordination in post-trade infrastructure.
MoU signed between RBI and ESMA on CCP cooperation.
ESMA may rely on RBI supervision for cross-border clearing.
Aims to restore EU access to Indian CCPs under regulation.
Further talks with SEBI and IFSCA ongoing.
India and EU sign new security and defence partnership
India and the European Union signed a fresh security and defence partnership to boost maritime cooperation and Indo-Pacific engagements. An India–EU Defence Industry Forum will involve observers and select EU member states to strengthen supply chains for trusted defence ecosystems. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged joint efforts to leverage India’s defence industry in Europe’s ReArm initiative. The pact also aims to broaden collaboration across technology, manufacturing and strategic research, with continued dialogue between India and EU leadership to diversify suppliers and reduce risk in defence supply chains.
New India-EU security and defence partnership signed.
India-EU Defence Industry Forum to be established.
Rajnath Singh calls for stronger industry collaboration.
Focus on diversified supply chains and joint capability development.
U.S. announces multi-day military exercise in West Asia amid regional tensions
The United States on January 27, 2026 announced a multi-day air force exercise in West Asia, following the deployment of the Abraham Lincoln strike group to the region. The drills come amid ongoing tensions with Iran and regional partners. The exercises aim to demonstrate U.S. readiness and to reassure allies, while signaling a continued American strategic footprint in the area. Details on participating units and timelines were not fully disclosed, but officials emphasised the exercises would occur alongside ongoing regional security operations.
U.S. announces multi-day West Asia air force exercise (Jan 27, 2026).
Linked to Abraham Lincoln strike group deployment.
Aimed at deterrence, readiness and regional reassurance.
Delhi sees wettest January in four years; February forecast unsettled
Delhi recorded its wettest January in four years, totaling 25.3 mm of rainfall, with a 4.2 mm spell on the latest day. Forecasters expect February to begin with unsettled conditions. Local authorities urged residents to monitor weather updates and plan travel accordingly. While rain brought relief from heat and dust, it also posed challenges for traffic and public transport. The weather pattern highlights shifting climate variability and potential implications for urban planning, water management, and agriculture in the region.
Delhi experiences its wettest January in four years.
Total rainfall around 25.3 mm; recent day 4.2 mm.
February outlook uncertain; weather monitoring advised.
Implications for urban planning and water management.
China launches world’s largest compressed-air energy storage plant
China began operating the world’s largest compressed-air energy storage plant in Jiangsu Province, a major step in the country’s green energy expansion. The facility has 2,400 megawatt-hours of storage capacity and can generate about 600 megawatts of power, meeting the annual electricity needs of roughly 600,000 households. The plant uses underground caverns to store compressed air at night and release it to drive turbines during the day. BloombergNEF identifies such long-duration energy storage as cost-effective for grid stability. The project demonstrates China’s push toward scalable, low-carbon storage solutions to support its energy transition.
Facility capacity: 2,400 MWh; output: 600 MW.
Location: Jiangsu Province, China.
Storage method: underground compressed air.
Viewed as a cost-effective long-duration storage solution.
New flowering plant species found in Nagaland’s protected forest
Researchers from Nagaland University described a previously unknown flowering plant, Hoya nagaensis, from Kavunhou Community Reserved Forest in Phek district, about 110 kilometres from Kohima. The plant belongs to the wax plant family (Hoya) and features star-shaped flowers with a milky latex. Authorities note the discovery highlights biodiversity in Nagaland and the need for conservation of high-altitude habitats. While medicinal uses are not yet studied, such species may hold pharmacological potential with proper scientific evaluation and safeguards to prevent habitat loss.
Species named:Hoya nagaensis, in Kavunhou Forest.
Located about 110 km from Kohima, Nagaland.
Part of wax plant family; star-shaped flowers; milky latex.
India Energy Week 2026 underway in Goa, spotlight on energy transition
India Energy Week 2026 runs from January 27 to 30 in Goa, showcasing energy policy, technology and investment opportunities. The event, led by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas with FIPI and dmg events, brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to discuss energy security, decarbonisation and green technology. Participants note India’s rapid energy transition and opportunities in hydrogen, LNG, renewables and digital energy solutions. The forum also emphasizes Make in India and international partnerships to accelerate clean energy deployment and economic growth.
IEW 2026 runs January 27–30 in Goa.
Focus on energy transition, decarbonisation and investment.
Event promotes Make in India and international partnerships.
Attendees include policymakers and industry leaders.
IEW 2026 reinforces India’s energy transition goals
The India Energy Week 2026 in Goa consolidates India’s strategy for energy transition, highlighting opportunities in renewables, LNG, hydrogen, storage and digital energy. Organisers emphasise Make in India, private sector investment, and international partnerships to accelerate decarbonisation. Attendees note policy reforms and infrastructure investments as key enablers for a secure, affordable energy future. The event showcases cutting-edge technologies and cross-border collaborations aimed at strengthening India’s position in the global energy landscape.
IEW 2026 reinforces energy transition initiatives.
Focus on renewables, LNG, hydrogen, and storage.
Emphasis on Make in India and international partnerships.
Highlights infrastructure and policy reforms.
Adani Aerospace & Defence strikes Embraer MoU to assemble planes in India
Adani Aerospace & Defence on January 28, 2026 announced a Memorandum of Understanding with Brazil’s Embraer to assemble commercial aircraft in India. The agreement aims to localise manufacturing and foster a regional aircraft ecosystem under the Make in India framework. Embraer, the world’s third-largest aircraft maker, said location and final partnership structure are still under discussion, with planning and site selection to proceed in parallel. The MoU, unveiled at the Ministry of Civil Aviation event attended by Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, signals a significant push for domestic aviation capacity. Timelines and specific obligations will be revealed in the coming months.
Adani Defence & Aerospace signs MoU with Embraer to assemble regional jets in India.
Facility location and partnership structure are pending finalisation.
Event held at Ministry of Civil Aviation; Naidu attended.
Part of Make in India push to deepen domestic aviation manufacturing.
IIT Guwahati maps 492 high-risk glacial lakes in Eastern Himalayas
Researchers at IIT Guwahati have developed a predictive model to identify where glacial lakes may form in the Eastern Himalayas. The framework helps in disaster preparedness and long-term water management as climate change accelerates glacier melt. The study indicates that landscape features, not only climate factors, influence lake formation and potential glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Past events like Kedarnath (2013) and Uttarkashi (2025) underscore the risk to roads, villages and hydropower. The model aims to guide early warning systems and mitigation planning for high-altitude regions.
492 glacial lakes mapped in Eastern Himalayas.
Landscape features influence lake formation; climate factors also involved.
Study supports disaster preparedness for GLOFs.
References to Kedarnath and Uttarkashi floods as context.
Microsoft unveils Maia 200 AI chip to rival Nvidia
Microsoft announced its Maia 200 AI chip on January 26, 2026, built on TSMC’s 3-nanometer process. The device aims to improve AI inference efficiency and outpace competitors such as Amazon’s Trainium and Google’s TPU Ironwood. Maia 200’s FP4 performance reportedly triples the speed of Trainium 3rd generation and increases computational efficiency. The release signals a broader industry shift toward in-house AI accelerators as tech firms seek different supply chains and performance benchmarks. Microsoft positions Maia 200 as part of a diversified strategy to strengthen AI infrastructure for cloud and edge deployments.
Maia 200 chip announced January 26, 2026.
Fabricated on TSMC 3nm process.
Inferred performance claims: higher efficiency than Trainium and TPU Ironwood.
Ajit Pawar dies in Baramati plane crash; DGCA report details
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others died when a Learjet 45 operating as VT-SSK crash-landed at Baramati airport on January 28, 2026. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed the incident; no survivors were reported among those on board. Investigations will determine causes, with authorities examining aircraft maintenance, weather and pilot performance. The tragedy marks a sudden political setback in Baramati and raises questions about private charter safety regulations. Official condolences were issued by state and national leaders as inquiries proceed.
Ajit Pawar dies in Learjet 45 crash at Baramati, January 28, 2026.
Bangladesh, China sign UAV manufacturing agreement
Bangladesh and China signed a government-to-government agreement to establish a UAV manufacturing and assembly facility in Bangladesh. The CETC International deal includes technology transfer and capacity building to enable long-term self-reliance in unmanned aerial systems. The collaboration comes as Dhaka navigates regional security dynamics and seeks diversified defense partnerships. Initial production targets include medium-altitude, low-endurance UAVs and VTOL platforms. The pact signals deeper Beijing-Bangladesh defence ties and adds complexity to regional defence planning, particularly in the Bay of Bengal region, where multiple powers monitor developments.
G-to-G UAV manufacturing facility planned in Bangladesh.
Technology transfer and capacity building included.
Initial focus on medium-altitude, low-endurance UAVs and VTOLs.
Part of broader China-Bangladesh defence cooperation.
40-hour BRO operation restores Chattergala Pass after heavy snowfall
In a 40-hour operation under Project Sampark, the Border Roads Organisation restored the Chattergala Pass in Jammu after heavy snow blocked the Bhaderwah-Chattergala route. The pass sits at about 10,500 feet. Snow began on January 23, 2026, and by January 25, teams from the 118 Road Construction Company of the 35 Border Roads Task Force cleared nearly 38 kilometres buried under 5–6 feet of snow. The road reopening enabled safe evacuation of 20 civilians and 40 personnel from 4 Rashtriya Rifles with essential supplies. The mission showcased high-altitude capabilities and cross-agency coordination.
Chattergala Pass at 10,500 feet cleared after 38 km snow removal.
Snowfall disrupted road link on January 23, 2026.
Operations conducted by BRO under Project Sampark.
Evacuations included civilians and security forces with supplies.
Renowned playback singer Arijit Singh announced his retirement on January 28, 2026, prompting a flood of reactions across social media. The artist, known for hits like Tum Hi Ho and Channa Mereya, has influenced Indian cinema and music for a decade. Industry colleagues expressed surprise and support, while fans reflected on his contributions. No official details were given about future plans or projects. The announcement triggers widespread discussion about the Indian music industry’s evolution and the impact of star retirement on audiences and media coverage.
Arijit Singh announces retirement (Jan 28, 2026).
Immediate fan and industry reactions online.
No further project details disclosed yet.
Raises questions about future of Indian playback music.
Victoria Beckham honoured in France as husband and family attend Paris event
Victoria Beckham received the French honour Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters in Paris, with part of a family gathering that included David, Romeo, Cruz and Harper. The ceremony celebrated Beckham’s contributions to fashion and culture, with Victoria posting on Instagram about the recognition. The family was in Paris for the event, while Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz were reportedly absent due to a family dispute. Beckham described the honour as a reflection of decades of work and commitment to the arts and design, as observers noted the evolving balance between fashion, media and culture.
Beckham named Chevalière de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by France.
Ceremony held in Paris; family attendance included most members.
Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz reportedly absent amid family tensions.
Beckham described the honour as a culmination of decades of work.
National Geographic Day 2026 observed on January 27
National Geographic Day 2026 was observed globally on January 27 to celebrate geography, science, wildlife and environmental conservation. The day honours the National Geographic Society’s legacy of exploration and knowledge sharing. The observance encourages global awareness, curiosity about the planet, and sustainable living through scientific inquiry and storytelling. Indian schools, research institutions and cultural groups marked the occasion with outreach activities, exhibits and discussions on conservation challenges. The event underscores the role of geography and science in shaping policy and everyday decisions.
National Geographic Day observed on January 27, 2026.
Focus on geography, science, wildlife and conservation.
Event highlights public engagement in science and exploration.
In India, institutions hosted programs to mark the day.
NHIS and ASISSE to be conducted in Chennai over two days
The National Statistics Office announced an All-India Workshop of Trainers for NHIS and ASISSE in Chennai on January 28–29, 2026. The two pan-India surveys, starting April 2026, will provide data on living conditions and service-sector activity. The workshop will train field staff and master trainers who will implement digital field work nationwide. NHIS will assess income distribution and well-being, while ASISSE will measure service-sector performance. Officials emphasised the data’s role in policy decisions for universal and targeted interventions across socio-economic groups.
NHIS and ASISSE workshop in Chennai, January 28–29, 2026.
Surveys to start across India from April 2026.
Aims to fill data gaps on income, living conditions and services.
Trains Master Trainers for field operations.
Centre launches Rs 82.5 crore bamboo projects for northeast India
The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region announced two bamboo sector projects with a combined outlay of Rs 82.5 crore. The initiative aims to transform bamboo into a modern livelihood and industrial growth engine for the North East Region. The projects focus on value addition, processing capacity, and creating market linkages for bamboo products. Officials emphasised sustained investment, skill development, and scalability to boost local employment and exports. The programme aligns with regional development goals and supports the broader objective of making bamboo a driver of inclusive growth in the region.
Total outlay: Rs 82.5 crore for two bamboo projects.
Aim: modernise bamboo livelihood and industry in NE India.
Focus on processing, value addition and market linkages.
Part of broader regional development and employment goals.
CCRAS and CSU host transliteration workshop on Ayurvedic manuscripts
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) and the Central Sanskrit University (CSU) completed a 15-day transliteration workshop in Kerala. From January 12 to 25, 33 scholars—18 Ayurveda and 15 Sanskrit—trained in manuscriptology, palaeography and Grantha/Vattezhuthu scripts. The residential program aimed to digitise and preserve classical Ayurvedic texts, enabling research-based work. The collaboration develops skills for transliteration, interpretation and conservation, aligning with national initiatives to document manuscripts and support modern Ayurveda research while safeguarding traditional knowledge.
15-day transliteration workshop completed in Kerala.
Aims to digitise and preserve Ayurvedic manuscripts.
WaSH Warriors honoured at Jal Shakti event in New Delhi
The Ministry of Jal Shakti held the Samvad Samaroh to recognise 58 WaSH Warriors from across India for leadership in water conservation and sanitation. The event, held at PSOI, New Delhi, coincided with the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path. Warriors, drawn from Swachh Sujal Gaon villages and vulnerable communities, shared experiences on drinking water access and hygiene improvements. Union Minister C. R. Patil and state ministers attended alongside senior officials. The recognition highlights grassroots governance and community-led solutions under Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat initiatives.
Samvad Samaroh recognised 58 WaSH Warriors.
Event aligned with Republic Day activities on Kartavya Path.
Warriors come from Har Ghar Jal certified Swachh Sujal Gaon villages.
Highlights community leadership in water and sanitation.
Ajanta–Ellora 11th International Film Festival to begin January 28
The 11th Ajanta–Ellora International Film Festival (AEIFF) commences January 28, 2026, in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The opening program at 5:00 pm will feature the Spanish film Siret. The festival brings together national and international cinema, with Padmapani Award to Ilaiyaraaja for his contributions to Indian cinema. Guests include festival leadership, university officials and notable film professionals such as Resul Pookutty. The event showcases diverse storytelling from across the region and the world, highlighting cross-cultural exchange in cinema and music.
AEIFF 11th edition opens January 28, 2026 in Sambhajinagar.
Opening film: Siret (Spain).
Padmapani Award to Ilaiyaraaja.
High-profile attendees include industry and academic leaders.
Uttarakhand implemented an amendment ordinance to reform the Uniform Civil Code provisions, introducing multiple changes including stronger penalties for coercion and fraud in marriages and live-in relationships. The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, was enacted after Governor Gurmeet Singh (retd) gave assent to amendments proposed to the 2024 UCC framework. The move aims to modernise civil law within the state and align personal laws with evolving social norms. Critics note legal and constitutional questions, while supporters say amendments promote gender equality and clearer protections.
Ordinance enacted January 26, 2026; Governor approved amendments.
Targets coercion and fraud in marriage and live-in relationships.
Part of Uttarakhand’s UCC reform of 2024 framework.
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