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18th Rozgar Mela 2026: PM Modi Distributes Over 61,000 Appointment Letters

The 18th edition of the Rozgar Mela was held on 24 January 2026, during which Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed over 61,000 appointment letters to newly recruited youth across various central government departments and organizations. The event was organized simultaneously at 45 locations across India, highlighting its nationwide scale and inclusive approach.

Addressing the appointees, the Prime Minister reiterated the government’s strong commitment to employment generation, emphasizing that job creation is central to national development and youth empowerment. The Rozgar Mela is a flagship initiative aimed at fast-tracking government recruitment and providing stable employment opportunities to young citizens.

Since its inception, Rozgar Melas have resulted in the issuance of more than 11 lakh appointment letters, reflecting their significant impact on public sector employment. Beyond recruitment, the initiative contributes to economic stability, institutional strengthening, and social equity by ensuring wider access to government jobs across regions.

ASC ARJUN: First Humanoid Robot Deployed by Indian Railways at Visakhapatnam

Indian Railways has deployed its first humanoid robot, ASC ARJUN, at Visakhapatnam Railway Station to strengthen passenger safety, security, and service delivery. The robot will function alongside Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, especially during periods of heavy passenger movement, reflecting Indian Railways’ commitment to adopting emerging technologies for improved operational efficiency and public convenience.

The robot was unveiled by Inspector General (RPF) Alok Bohra and Divisional Railway Manager Lalit Bohra, in the presence of senior RPF officials. Developed entirely in Visakhapatnam using indigenous technology, ASC ARJUN is the outcome of over a year of work by a dedicated technical team, highlighting Indian Railways’ growing capability to integrate advanced systems into routine operations.

ASC ARJUN is equipped with a Face Recognition System (FRS) for intrusion detection, AI-based crowd monitoring, and real-time alert generation for RPF control rooms. It can make automated public announcements in English, Hindi, and Telugu, enhancing passenger assistance and safety awareness.

With semi-autonomous navigation and obstacle-avoidance, the robot can patrol platforms round the clock, supporting surveillance and optimizing manpower deployment. Additional features include fire and smoke detection systems for emergency response, as well as interactive functions such as greeting passengers with a Namaste, saluting RPF personnel, and providing information through a user interface.

The Ministry of Railways stated that ASC ARJUN’s deployment is part of a broader strategy to leverage technology-driven and indigenously developed innovations to create a safer, more secure, and passenger-friendly railway environment.

Government Notifies Questions for First Phase of Census Starting April 1

The Government of India has officially notified 33 questions to be asked during the first phase of the upcoming Census, beginning April 1, 2026. This phase, known as houselisting and housing enumeration, will collect detailed information about households, amenities, and living conditions.

🏠 First Phase of Census: Houselisting and Housing Enumeration

The Census is conducted in two phases, and the first phase focuses on housing-related data. Enumerators will visit households to record details that help the government plan infrastructure, welfare schemes, and resource allocation.

Key Areas Covered in the 33 Questions

  • Housing Conditions: Type of flooring, roofing, and materials used in construction.
  • Ownership Status: Whether the house is owned, rented, or otherwise occupied.
  • Household Composition: Number of members, number of married couples, and sex of the household head.
  • Basic Amenities: Availability of drinking water, electricity, bathing facilities, and sanitation.
  • Modern Facilities: Access to internet, type of mobile phones used, and digital connectivity.
  • Food Consumption: Main cereal consumed by the household.
  • Assets: Vehicles owned and other household assets.

Basant Panchami and Saraswati Puja (23 Jan 2026)

Basant Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, is a vibrant festival was celebrated across India to mark the arrival of spring and to worship Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom, learning, and arts on 23 January 2026. It usually falls in the month of Magha (January–February) according to the Hindu calendar.

🌸 Significance of Basant Panchami

  • Seasonal Importance: Basant Panchami heralds the onset of spring (Basant means spring), symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and joy.
  • Spiritual Importance: The day is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, who embodies knowledge, music, art, and culture.
  • Cultural Importance: It is considered an auspicious day to begin new ventures, educational pursuits, or artistic endeavors.

🙏 Saraswati Puja Traditions

  • Worship of Goddess Saraswati: Devotees place books, musical instruments, and tools of learning near the idol or image of the goddess, seeking blessings for wisdom and creativity.
  • Yellow Color: Yellow is the dominant color of the festival, symbolizing energy, prosperity, and optimism. People wear yellow clothes, prepare yellow dishes like khichdi and sweet saffron rice.
  • Educational Institutions: Schools and colleges organize Saraswati Puja, encouraging students to participate in prayers and cultural programs.
  • Offerings: Flowers, fruits, and sweets are offered to the goddess, and devotees refrain from touching books or pens until the puja is completed, as a mark of respect.

Parakram Diwas: Honoring Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

Parakram Diwas is celebrated every year on 23rd January to honor Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s unmatched courage, leadership, and contribution to India’s freedom struggle. Instituted by the Government of India in 2021, the day is observed as a tribute to his indomitable spirit and patriotism.

🌟 Meaning and Significance

  • Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour) commemorates the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of India’s most revered freedom fighters.
  • The word Parakram translates to valor or courage, symbolizing Bose’s fearless pursuit of independence.
  • It is not just a remembrance but a national call to inspire citizens, especially the youth, to emulate his bravery and dedication.

📜 Historical Context

  • Netaji was born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha.
  • He founded the Indian National Army (INA), also known as Azad Hind Fauj, and established the Azad Hind Government in exile.
  • His leadership challenged colonial rule and gave Indians a sense of empowerment and unity against British domination.

Amrit Udyan to Open for Public from 3 Feb to 31 March 2026

The Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan will open to the public from 3 February to 31 March 2026 as part of the annual Udyan Utsav. Visitors can enter six days a week between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (last entry at 5:15 p.m.). The garden will remain closed on Mondays for maintenance and on 4 March for Holi. Entry is free, with online booking available via the official portal or through kiosks at Gate 35, and shuttle services will operate from Central Secretariat Metro Station.

Spread over 15 acres, Amrit Udyan is known for its tulips, roses, and seasonal flowers, including 100+ varieties of roses and tulips. New attractions for 2026 include Babbling Brook and Bal Vatika. Formerly called Mughal Gardens, the site showcases India’s horticultural heritage, attracting nature lovers, families, and photographers.

Atal Pension Yojana Extended till 2030-31 & Equity Support to SIDBI

The Union Government on 21 January 2026 approved the continuation of the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) till 2030–31 and equity support of ₹5,000 crore to the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

Atal Pension Yojana (APY) – Extension

  • Approved till: 2030–31
  • Objective: Old-age income security for workers in the unorganised sector
  • Launched: May 2015
  • Benefits: Guaranteed pension of ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 per month after 60 years, depending on contribution
  • Subscribers enrolled: 8.66 crore+
  • Significance: Major component of India’s inclusive social security framework

Equity Support to SIDBI

  • Body involved: Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)
  • Total equity support approved: ₹5,000 crore
  • Purpose: To expand financial support to MSMEs
  • Expected beneficiaries: 25.74 lakh new MSME units
  • Growth projection:
    • MSMEs receiving financial assistance to rise from 76 lakh (FY 2025)
    • To 1 crore+ (FY 2028)

Book “Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi – Challenge and Response” released by Vice President

On 20 January 2026, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book “Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi – Challenge and Response” in New Delhi. Authored by Surendra Kumar Pachauri, a former Secretary to the Government of India, the book examines the historical, cultural and legal dimensions of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and presents the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir as a defining civilisational moment for India.

The book highlights themes such as the civilisational significance of Lord Ram, the convergence of faith, history, law and democracy, and the role of the 2019 Supreme Court verdict in fulfilling the aspirations of millions. The Vice President, while addressing the event, underscored that Lord Ram is the soul of the nation and noted the unparalleled importance of a temple at His birthplace.

The release of the book serves as a scholarly documentation of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, offering insights into legal battles, cultural debates and democratic processes. It stands as a symbolic milestone in recording one of India’s most significant cultural and historical developments.

Khelo India Winter Games 2026 Inaugurated in Leh, Ladakh

The Sixth Edition of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 began on 20 January 2026 at NDS Stadium, Leh, inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta. The event marks another milestone in Ladakh’s rise as a premier winter sports hub.

A total of 21 States and Union Territories are participating, with 1,000 participants, including 472 athletes, competing in ice sports such as ice hockey and skating. The games are being held across three venues in Leh: NDS Stadium, Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre, and Gupuk Pond.

The opening ceremony showcased Ladakh’s cultural heritage, with performances by local artists. Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated Ladakh for successfully hosting the event, which also saw the presence of senior civil and police officials.

For the first time, Figure Skating, an Olympic sport, has been introduced at the Winter Games.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed’s Official Visit to India (19 January 2026)

President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, visited India on January 19, 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit marked his third official trip as UAE President and reinforced the growing depth of the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

🌍 Context of the Visit

  • Date: January 19, 2026
  • Occasion: Official state visit at the invitation of PM Narendra Modi.
  • Significance: Fifth visit to India in the last decade, reflecting strong bilateral ties.
  • Backdrop: The visit came amid global geopolitical uncertainty, including tensions in West Asia and shifting global alliances.

🤝 Key Outcomes

  • Agreements Signed:
  • Nuclear Energy Cooperation: Strengthening collaboration in peaceful nuclear technologies.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Joint initiatives to advance AI research and applications.
  • Counter-Terrorism: Enhanced cooperation to combat extremism and terrorism.
  • Satellite Manufacturing: Partnership to develop advanced space and defence capabilities.
  • Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: Both leaders reaffirmed the steady growth of this framework over the past decade.

Nitin Nabin Becomes Youngest National President of BJP in Unopposed Election

Nitin Nabin has been elected unopposed as the new National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), formally taking charge on January 20, 2026.

Youngest Leader: At 45 years old, he becomes the youngest person ever to lead the BJP.

Wide Support: His nomination was backed by senior BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh and the outgoing president J.P. Nadda, reflecting strong internal consensus.

Political Background: Nitin Nabin is a five-term MLA from Bihar and has served as minister in the Bihar government before rising through the BJP organisational ranks.

Strategic Shift: His appointment is widely seen as a generational shift and a strategic move to energise the party ahead of future elections.

World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos : January 19–23, 2026

The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland is a global gathering where leaders from politics, business, academia, and civil society meet annually to discuss pressing global challenges and shape future solutions.

🌍 Overview

  • Location: Davos, Switzerland, in the Swiss Alps.
  • Event: Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum.
  • Participants: Around 2,500–3,000 leaders from over 130 countries.
  • Theme (2026): “A Spirit of Dialogue” – emphasizing collaboration, trust, and innovation.
  • Dates: January 19–23, 2026.

🎯 Purpose

  • Global Cooperation: Provides a neutral platform for dialogue on geopolitics, trade, technology, and sustainability.
  • Problem-Solving: Tackles issues like climate change, economic inequality, technological disruption, and global security.
  • Networking: Encourages partnerships between governments, businesses, and NGOs.
  • Agenda Setting: Influences international policy directions and corporate strategies.

👥 Key Attendees

  • Political Leaders: Presidents, prime ministers, and ministers from major economies.
  • Business Executives: CEOs of multinational corporations.
  • Civil Society: NGOs, academics, and cultural leaders.
  • Notable 2026 Speakers: French President Emmanuel Macron, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng.

India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah & Guwahati

On 17 January, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya) from Malda Town railway station, and also virtually launched the Guwahati–Howrah service.

The fully air-conditioned sleeper version of Vande Bharat aims to provide airline-like comfort at economical fares, making long-distance travel faster, safer and more convenient for passengers such as students, professionals, migrant workers, traders, and pilgrims.

The semi-high-speed train can run up to 180 km/h and has 16 modern coaches with a capacity of 823 passengers.

Trump Announces “Board of Peace” for Gaza Plan’s Second Phase

Donald Trump has announced the creation of a new international “Board of Peace” as part of Phase Two of his Gaza Peace Plan, shifting focus from ceasefire arrangements to demilitarisation, technocratic governance, and reconstruction.

🌍 Background of the Gaza Peace Plan

  • Origin: The Gaza Peace Plan was first unveiled in September 2025 as a 20-point roadmap aimed at ending the prolonged conflict in Gaza.
  • Phase One: Focused on achieving a ceasefire and stabilizing immediate hostilities.
  • Phase Two: Moves towards long-term governance, reconstruction, and demilitarisation, with the newly formed Board of Peace at its core.

🏛️ The Board of Peace

  • Announcement: On 15 January 2026, Trump declared the formation of the Board of Peace, calling it “the greatest and most prestigious board ever assembled.”
  • Leadership: Trump himself is expected to serve as Chairman of the Board.
  • Membership: Countries including Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, and potentially India have been invited to join. India has received an official invitation but has yet to respond.
  • Mandate: The Board will supervise a Palestinian technocratic committee tasked with managing day-to-day governance in Gaza, ensuring neutrality and efficiency.

⚖️ Objectives of Phase Two

  • Demilitarisation: Secure agreements with Hamas to relinquish military control.
  • Governance: Support a technocratic Palestinian government free from factional politics.
  • Reconstruction: Oversee rebuilding of infrastructure, civil institutions, and public services.
  • International Oversight: Provide legitimacy and global backing through participation of multiple nations.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Raising Day : 19 January

NDRF Raising Day is celebrated every year on 19 January to honor the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), India’s premier disaster management unit formed in 2006 under the Disaster Management Act. It is a day of gratitude, pride, and reflection on the force’s lifesaving contributions.

🌐 Background and Significance

  • Formation: The NDRF was established in 2006 as a specialized force to respond to natural and man-made disasters.
  • Purpose: It was created to provide a dedicated, professional, and swift response to emergencies like floods, earthquakes, cyclones, landslides, and industrial accidents.
  • Raising Day: Observed annually on 19 January, it commemorates the inception of the force and highlights its achievements.

🚨 Structure and Deployment

  • Battalions: The NDRF currently has 16 battalions, drawn from paramilitary forces such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB.
  • Locations: These battalions are strategically based at 68 locations across India, chosen according to vulnerability and disaster-prone zones.
  • Specialization: Personnel are trained in search and rescue, medical aid, chemical and nuclear disaster response, and community awareness programs.

New DGs Appointed for BSF, ITBP & NIA

On 14 January 2026, the Government of India appointed new Director Generals (DGs) for three key security agencies — the Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

  • Praveen Kumar (1993-batch IPS, West Bengal cadre) was moved from ITBP to BSF, bringing strong expertise in border management and internal security.
  • Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor, former DGP Haryana, was appointed as DG, ITBP, enhancing leadership for India’s Himalayan border security.
  • Rakesh Aggarwal (1994-batch IPS, Himachal Pradesh cadre) became DG, NIA, strengthening counter-terrorism operations due to his specialized experience and prior role in the agency.

Praveen Vashista Appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in Central Vigilance Commission

Praveen Vashista, a 1991-batch IPS officer of the Bihar cadre, has been appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). He took oath of office on 16 January 2026, completing the three-member structure of the Commission.

  • The Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003 mandates one Central Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance Commissioners.
  • Vigilance Commissioners serve a four-year term or until the age of 65, whichever comes first.
  • Vashista’s appointment was cleared by the Prime Minister-led selection committee in December 2025.
  • The appointment was formally made by President Droupadi Murmu through a warrant issued on 12 December 2025.

EU Leaders to be Chief Guests at India’s 77th Republic Day

The President of the European Council António Luís Santos da Costa and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen will be the Chief Guests at India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations on 26 January at Kartavyapath. They are visiting India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will be on a three-day State Visit from 25 January.

During their visit, both leaders will also co-chair the 16th India-EU Summit on 27 January, meet President Droupadi Murmu, and hold delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Modi. An India-EU Business Forum is planned on the sidelines of the Summit.

India and the European Union have been strategic partners since 2004, with the last (15th) India-EU Summit held virtually in July 2020. Bilateral ties have strengthened across multiple areas, especially after the EU College of Commissioners visited India in February last year. The Republic Day participation and the upcoming Summit are expected to further deepen the India-EU Strategic Partnership and expand cooperation in priority sectors of mutual interest.

Startup India – 10-Year Summary (2016–2026)

Startup India, launched on January 16, 2016, has completed a decade of transforming India into a major global startup hub. The initiative helped India shift from a nation of job seekers to job creators, enabling a massive entrepreneurial wave celebrated annually on National Startup Day (January 16).

Key Outcomes

  • Ecosystem Growth: Startups expanded from ~350 in 2016 to 2.10 lakh+ recognized ventures.
  • Unicorn Surge: India now has 120+ unicorns valued at around $350 billion, ranking as the 3rd-largest startup ecosystem globally.
  • Inclusive Expansion: Strong growth in Tier-II & Tier-III cities with rising women-led ventures.
  • Employment Engine: Startups generated millions of jobs across tech and non-tech sectors.
  • Policy Support: DPIIT-led measures like tax incentives, funding schemes, incubation, and simplified compliance accelerated innovation.

10-Year Impact Areas

  • Innovation: Boosted sectors like AI, fintech, edtech, agritech, healthtech.
  • Economy: Enhanced GDP contribution and drew significant global investments.
  • Global Standing: Positioned India as a leading startup powerhouse.
  • Social Impact: Catalyzed solutions in healthcare, education, agriculture, sustainability.

Future Direction

The initiative is now focusing on AI, deep tech, sustainability, and aligning with India’s long-term vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Conclusion

A decade of Startup India marks a major entrepreneurial revolution, democratizing opportunities from metros to small towns. The next decade aims to deepen technological leadership, inclusiveness, and global competitiveness.

Iran Unrest 2026: Nationwide Protests and Global Reactions

In January 2026, Iran is experiencing its most serious unrest since the 1979 Revolution, with nationwide anti-government protests that began in late December 2025 over economic hardships and quickly turned into widespread dissent against the clerical leadership. The protests have spread to over 250 locations in 27 provinces.

The government’s response has been violent, with human rights groups reporting over 2,000 deaths and over 16,000 arrests, and organizations like Amnesty International accusing security forces, including the IRGC, of using live ammunition and brutality against largely peaceful demonstrators.

Iran’s leaders claim the protests are driven by foreign interference, blaming the U.S. and Israel, while warning of possible retaliation in the region. Meanwhile, the United States, under President Donald Trump, has condemned the crackdown and threatened strong measures, while the United Nations has called for restraint.

The crisis is fueled by a mix of economic collapse, political dissatisfaction, regional tensions, and human rights abuses. The situation remains volatile, posing risks of domestic instability, potential Iran–U.S. confrontation, and broader regional economic impacts.

Army Day 2026 Celebrated in Jaipur

The 78th Army Day was celebrated on 15 January 2026 in Jaipur, commemorating the 1949 appointment of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief. The 2026 theme, “Year of Networking and Data Centricity,” highlighted the Army’s focus on modernization, digital integration, and network-centric warfare.

For the first time, the parade was held outside a cantonment, at Mahal Road, Jagatpura, featuring combat demonstrations, modern equipment, and the debut of the Bhairav Battalion, along with a “Know Your Army” exhibition.

Army Day honors soldiers’ sacrifices, strengthens national pride, and showcases the Army’s roles in defense, disaster relief, peacekeeping, and nation-building. The celebration blends tradition with modernization, reflecting India’s journey toward self-reliance in defense.

BRICS India 2026: Marking 20 Years of the Grouping

India will host the 18th BRICS Summit in 2026, marking the 20th anniversary of the grouping. With the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability”, India’s presidency emphasizes a humanity-first, people-centric approach to global welfare.

🌍 BRICS India 2026: An Overview

  • BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) was formed in 2006 and has since expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, and Indonesia.
  • The 2026 summit in New Delhi coincides with the 20th anniversary of BRICS, making it a milestone event.
  • India assumed the chairmanship on 1 January 2026, succeeding Brazil.

🎯 Theme & Vision

  • Theme: “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability”.
  • Guiding principle: Humanity-first, people-centric approach.
  • Focus areas:
    • Resilience: Strengthening capacities to withstand global challenges.
    • Innovation: Promoting digital public infrastructure, fintech, AI, and emerging technologies.
    • Cooperation: Enhancing collaboration among diverse economies.
    • Sustainability: Ensuring inclusive and eco-friendly development.

🪷 Symbolism

  • Logo: A lotus with a Namaste gesture, chosen through a national contest.
    • Lotus = resilience and heritage.
    • Petals = colours of BRICS nations, symbolizing unity.
    • Namaste = India’s cultural ethos of respect and harmony.

Armed Forces Veterans’ Day (14 January)

Armed Forces Veterans’ Day is observed every year on 14 January to honour the service, sacrifice, and contributions of India’s military veterans. The day marks the retirement anniversary of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa in 1953, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army after Independence, making it a symbolic tribute to the armed forces.

The observance aims to recognize veterans of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, support Veer Naris (war widows) and families of ex-servicemen, and strengthen the bond between serving personnel and retired soldiers. Events are held nationwide through Rajya and Zila Sainik Boards, featuring rallies, welfare help desks, grievance counters, and wreath-laying ceremonies. Major gatherings often take place in Delhi Cantonment (Manekshaw Centre), Pune, and other military stations.

Lohri Festival: Harvest Celebration of North India

Lohri is a popular harvest and winter festival celebrated mainly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of North India. It is observed every year on 13 January and marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, warmer days.

Traditionally associated with the Rabi (winter) crop harvest, especially sugarcane, sesame, and mustard, Lohri holds special significance for farming communities. A central feature of the festival is the bonfire, around which people gather in the evening to offer rewri, peanuts, popcorn, and sesame (til) to the flames while singing folk songs and performing bhangra and gidda.

Lohri also symbolizes new beginnings, and in many families, it is celebrated with great joy for newlywed couples and newborn children. Overall, Lohri reflects the cultural spirit of gratitude, community bonding, and agricultural prosperity in North India.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Makes First Official Visit to India

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in India for his first official visit on January 12–13, 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit aims to strengthen the India–Germany Strategic Partnership, with a focus on trade, defence, technology, education, and cultural diplomacy.

During the visit, Merz engaged in cultural events such as visiting the Sabarmati Ashram and attending the International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad. Formal bilateral discussions were held at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar, covering cooperation in investment, skilling, green technologies, and innovation. The Chancellor also visited Bengaluru, emphasizing collaboration in science and advanced technology.

Merz was accompanied by a German business delegation, indicating a push toward deeper economic engagement. The visit carries wider geopolitical relevance as it precedes the India–EU Summit on January 27, 2026, where progress on the long-pending India–EU Free Trade Agreement is expected.

The trip takes place against the backdrop of 25 years of the India–Germany Strategic Partnership, reflecting shared goals in global governance, sustainability, and Indo-Pacific security. For India, the engagement offers access to German technology and industry, while Germany seeks a stronger foothold in Asia’s fastest-growing major economy.

Golden Globes 2026: “One Battle After Another” & “Hamnet” Win Top Honors

At the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, dark comedy “One Battle After Another” and the Shakespeare-inspired drama “Hamnet” won the top film honors, taking best movie musical or comedy and best movie drama, respectively. Timothee Chalamet won best male actor in a movie musical or comedy for his role as a professional table tennis player in “Marty Supreme,” defeating major contenders such as Leonardo DiCaprio and George Clooney.

In new and notable categories, “Good Hang with Amy Poehler” earned the podcast award, while “Golden” from Netflix’s K-Pop Demon Hunters won best original song. Host Nikki Glaser kept the night light-hearted with playful jokes about Hollywood stars, including DiCaprio.

The Golden Globes are one of the first major events of Hollywood’s 2026 awards season, preceding the Academy Awards in March. While Globes voters (entertainment journalists) do not influence the Oscars, the wins often boost visibility for potential contenders.

Greenland: Geopolitics, Geography & History

Greenland, the world’s largest island, is a self-governing territory under the Kingdom of Denmark and has become strategically important due to its Arctic location, mineral resources, and geopolitical relevance. Positioned near newly emerging Arctic shipping routes, it has attracted interest from the US, Russia, and China. The island hosts important Western military installations, including the US Thule Air Base, making it crucial for NATO’s Arctic defense strategy.

Greenland debates greater autonomy and potential independence, but continues to rely heavily on Danish financial subsidies, despite efforts to build economic self-sufficiency through sectors like rare earth mineral extraction, which could reduce global dependence on China. The island is also central to climate research, as the Greenland Ice Sheet, covering about 80% of its surface, is melting rapidly; a full melt would raise global sea levels by roughly 7 meters.

Geographically, Greenland spans 2.16 million sq km, lies largely within the Arctic Circle, and has a polar climate. Its population of roughly 56,500—primarily Inuit—lives along coastal ice-free zones, with Nuuk serving as the capital. Historically, Greenland was settled by Inuit peoples, later colonized by Norse Vikings, and became a Danish colony in the 18th century. Denmark granted Home Rule in 1979 and Self-Government in 2009, allowing Greenland control over domestic affairs while Denmark oversees defense and foreign policy. The independence movement continues, but economic challenges remain a key constraint.

Q. Greenland is a self-governing territory under the sovereignty of which country?
A) Norway
B) Denmark
C) Iceland
D) Canada
Answer: B) Denmark
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is a self-governing territory under the Kingdom of Denmark and has become strategically important due to its Arctic location, mineral resources, and geopolitical relevance.

PSLV-C62 Mission Launched: Reports Anomaly During Third Stage

The PSLV-C62 mission, the 64th flight of India’s PSLV launch vehicle, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota on 12 January 2026, carrying the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-N1 (Anvesha) along with 14 commercial payloads. The mission was executed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and marked the ninth dedicated commercial launch, with strategic support from DRDO, which developed the EOS-N1 for high-precision imaging. The rocket also carried satellites from both domestic and international customers, including seven from Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space, making it a milestone for India’s private space sector.

However, the mission experienced an anomaly near the end of the third (PS3) stage, where the vehicle reported higher roll disturbances and a flight path deviation. ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan confirmed that the PSLV’s performance up to the PS3 stage was nominal and that data is currently being analysed to assess the impact of the anomaly.

National Youth Day 2026: Celebrating Swami Vivekananda’s Legacy

National Youth Day is observed every year on 12 January in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the country’s greatest spiritual leaders, philosophers, and youth icons. The day aims to inspire young people to follow his ideals of character-building, knowledge, discipline, and nation-building.

📅 Historical Background

  • In 1984, the Government of India declared 12 January as National Youth Day.
  • The first official celebration took place on 12 January 1985.
  • The decision was based on Swami Vivekananda’s lasting influence on youth empowerment and his contribution to Indian thought and culture.

👤 About Swami Vivekananda

  • Born: 12 January 1863, Kolkata
  • Original Name: Narendranath Datta
  • Key Contribution: Introduced Indian philosophy and Vedanta to the Western world through his iconic speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago (1893).
  • Mission: Awakening spiritual and social consciousness; service to humanity.
  • Legacy Organizations: Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Math

Budget Session of Parliament 2026: Economic Survey & Union Budget Timeline

The Budget Session of Parliament 2026 began on January 28, 2026, and will continue until April 2, 2026, conducted in two phases. It is one of India’s most important parliamentary sessions, featuring the President’s address, the Economic Survey, and the presentation of the Union Budget.

In Phase 1 (January 28 – February 13), President Droupadi Murmu addressed the joint sitting of Parliament, followed by the presentation of the Economic Survey 2025–26 on January 29, and the Union Budget 2026–27 on February 1 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. After a recess, Phase 2 (March 9 – April 2) will focus on discussions, departmental scrutiny, and passage of budget-related bills.

The session holds major significance as it sets the nation’s fiscal priorities, outlines economic policy direction, enables legislative business, and provides space for opposition scrutiny. Key issues include balancing fiscal targets with welfare spending, managing global economic uncertainties, and advancing reforms in infrastructure, digitalization, and social welfare.

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