Q. Indian Railways is the largest electrified rail network in the world, surpassing which countries?
A. USA and UK
B. China and Russia
C. Japan and Germany
D. France and Italy
Q. The Integrated Security Hub (ICCC) inaugurated in January 2026 is located at which place?
A. Port Blair
B. Diglipur
C. Car Nicobar
D. Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
The Integrated Security Hub (Integrated Command and Control Centre – ICCC) was inaugurated on 3 January 2026 by Amit Shah at Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The centre has been developed at a cost of ₹229 crore as a high-tech platform for maritime security, disaster management, and smart governance in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region.
The ICCC functions as a centralized hub for real-time monitoring, AI-based surveillance, smart transport, port connectivity, and urban services, significantly enhancing the islands’ capacity to respond to cyclones, tsunamis, and security threats. Alongside the ICCC, nine infrastructure projects worth ₹373 crore were inaugurated, aimed at strengthening public services, tourism, and connectivity.
Overall, the Integrated Security Hub strengthens India’s maritime dominance, improves national security preparedness, and represents a major step toward digital and smart governance in remote island territories.
Indian Railways has become the world’s largest electrified rail system, completing 100 years of electrification in 2025 and surpassing all other networks globally. Nearly all of India’s 70-thousand route-kilometre broad-gauge network is now powered by electricity. This achievement reflects India’s commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and modernization of its transport infrastructure.
| Year | Milestone | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1925 | First electric train | Ran between Bombay VT (now CSMT) and Kurla Harbour Line, using 1.5 kV DC |
| 1930s–40s | Expansion in Western Ghats | Electrification extended to Igatpuri and Pune to tackle steep gradients |
| 1950s | Shift to 25 kV AC system | Adopted globally accepted standard for efficiency and scalability |
| 1970s–80s | Rapid expansion | Major trunk routes electrified, reducing reliance on steam/diesel traction |
| 2000s | Policy push | Government emphasized electrification for energy security and reduced imports of diesel |
| 2014–2023 | Accelerated drive | Electrification speed increased to ~6,000 km per year under national mission |
| 2023 | 100% electrification of broad-gauge routes | Indian Railways announced completion of electrification across all broad-gauge tracks |
| 2025 | 100 years of electrification | India celebrated a century since the first electric train, marking itself as the largest electrified rail network globally |
Q. India’s largest integrated inland Rainbow Trout farm was inaugurated in January 2026 in which state?
A. Himachal Pradesh
B. Uttarakhand
C. Telangana
D. Jammu & Kashmir
Q. India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train was launched in January 2026 on which route?
A. Delhi – Mumbai
B. Chennai – Bengaluru
C. Kolkata (Howrah) – Guwahati
D. Mumbai – Ahmedabad
India achieved a major milestone in railway modernization with the launch of its first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train in January 2026 on the Kolkata (Howrah)–Guwahati route. This marked the beginning of semi-high-speed overnight rail travel in the country, extending the success of the Vande Bharat series beyond day-time chair car services. Developed by Indian Railways, the sleeper variant is designed for long-distance routes of 1,000–1,500 km, offering both speed and comfort.
The train is capable of running at speeds of up to 180 km/h, significantly reducing travel time while providing fully air-conditioned sleeper coaches with cushioned berths for overnight journeys. It is equipped with modern safety features such as automatic doors, fire detection systems, and advanced braking technology. With larger train sets than chair-car versions, it can accommodate more passengers. The fare structure is positioned between conventional express trains and premium luxury services, ranging from ₹2,300 to ₹3,600.
On 5 January 2026, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh, along with Union Coal Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy, inaugurated India’s largest integrated inland Rainbow Trout farm in Ranga Reddy district. The project has been developed by startup SmartGreen Aquaculture with an estimated investment of ₹50 crore.
This initiative is significant because Rainbow Trout is a cold-water fish species that has traditionally been farmed only in the high-altitude Himalayan regions of India. Through the use of advanced engineering, temperature-controlled systems, and modern aquaculture technology, the farm enables trout cultivation in the warm climate of the Deccan Plateau, marking a major technological breakthrough in Indian fisheries.
Speaking at the event, Rajiv Ranjan Singh assured full government support for the export of Rainbow Trout, particularly through assistance from the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB). The project is expected to boost inland aquaculture diversification, encourage startup-led innovation, create employment, and enhance India’s presence in high-value fish exports.
Q. What was the codename of the U.S. military operation conducted in Venezuela in January 2026?
A. Operation Iron Shield
B. Operation Absolute Resolve
C. Operation Freedom Storm
D. Operation Southern Watch
Q. World Braille Day is observed to mark the birth anniversary of Louis Braille. On which date is World Braille Day observed every year?
A. 2 January
B. 3 January
C. 4 January
D. 5 January
Q. India surpassed which country to become the world’s largest producer of rice in January 2026?
A. Vietnam
B. Thailand
C. United States
D. China
India has emerged as the world’s largest producer of rice, overtaking China, according to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Speaking in New Delhi on 4 January 2026, the minister stated that India’s rice production has reached 150.18 million tonnes, surpassing China’s 145.28 million tonnes, marking a major milestone in global agriculture. He also highlighted that India is now actively supplying rice to international markets.
At the same event, the minister unveiled 184 improved varieties of 25 field crops developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). These include 122 cereals, 6 pulses, 13 oilseeds, 11 fodder crops, 6 sugarcane, 24 cotton, and one variety each of jute and tobacco.
Mr Chouhan emphasized that these high-yielding and climate-resilient seed varieties will help farmers achieve better productivity and quality. He directed officials to ensure rapid distribution of these seeds to farmers and urged scientists to focus on boosting pulses and oilseeds production to make India self-reliant. The achievement reflects the collective efforts of ICAR projects, agricultural universities, and private seed companies, signaling a new phase of agricultural revolution in India.
World Braille Day is observed every year on 4 January to raise awareness about the importance of Braille as a means of communication for people who are blind or visually impaired. The day marks the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the French educator who developed the Braille system in the 19th century.
Braille is a tactile writing system that uses raised dots to represent letters, numbers, and symbols, enabling visually impaired individuals to read, write, and access education independently. It plays a crucial role in inclusive education, equal opportunities, and social empowerment.
The United Nations officially recognized World Braille Day to highlight that access to information is a fundamental human right. On this day, governments, educational institutions, and social organizations emphasize the need for accessible learning materials, assistive technologies, and inclusive policies.
In January 2026, a U.S. military action in Venezuela—codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve—triggered intense global debate after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The operation, carried out on January 3, 2026, involved elite U.S. units such as Delta Force, backed by intelligence and air–naval support, and was justified by Washington on allegations of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
Following the operation, Maduro and Flores were transported to the United States and detained in New York to face trial. The strikes caused explosions and widespread fear in Caracas, leading to shutdowns across the city and uncertainty among civilians about the country’s future leadership.
Internationally, the action raised sharp concerns over sovereignty and international law, with critics calling it a violation of Venezuelan independence, while supporters framed it as a necessary step against transnational crime. Statements attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump about stabilizing Venezuela and restoring oil flows added to the controversy.
The fallout extended beyond Latin America. Analysts warned the precedent of unilateral intervention could influence other flashpoints involving Russia and China, while regional governments remained divided. Overall, the operation marked a major geopolitical turning point, reshaping Venezuela’s political landscape and intensifying debates over power, legality, and global order.
On January 3, 2026, a U.S. military action in Venezuela—codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve— capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.
Q. Who has been appointed as the chief coach of the Indian women’s hockey team?
A. Graham Reid
B. Janneke Schopman
C. Sjoerd Marijne
D. Michael Nobbs
Q. India’s first bullet train, scheduled to be launched on 15 August 2027, will operate on which high-speed rail corridor?
A. Delhi–Varanasi
B. Chennai–Bengaluru
C. Delhi–Ahmedabad
D. Mumbai–Ahmedabad
India’s first bullet train is scheduled to be inaugurated on 15 August 2027, coinciding with Independence Day, marking a historic milestone in the country’s infrastructure development. The high-speed rail service will operate on the 508-km Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, dramatically transforming intercity travel between western India’s major economic hubs.
The project is being implemented by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) with technical collaboration from Japan, using globally proven Shinkansen technology. Bullet trains on this corridor will run at speeds of up to 320 km/h, reducing travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad from the current 6–7 hours to about 2–3 hours.
The corridor will pass through Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and include 12 modern stations, such as Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Vapi, Surat, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati. The rollout will take place in phases, with intermediate sections becoming operational before the full stretch is completed.
With an estimated cost of around ₹1 lakh crore, the bullet train project is expected to boost regional connectivity, economic activity, tourism, and trade, while introducing advanced rail technology and enhanced safety standards. Beyond faster travel, the project symbolizes India’s leap toward world-class transport infrastructure and a new era of modern, efficient, and sustainable mobility.
On 2 January 2025, Sjoerd Marijne has been appointed as the chief coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, as announced by Hockey India. The experienced Dutch coach previously guided the Indian women’s team to a historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, marking only their second Olympic appearance in over 36 years and their best-ever performance at the Games.
Marijne’s first major assignment in his new role will be the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, scheduled to be held in Hyderabad, Telangana, from 8 to 14 March. These qualifiers are crucial for India’s bid to secure a place in the upcoming Women’s Hockey World Cup. He is set to arrive in India on 14 January, ahead of the National Coaching Camp, which will commence on 19 January at SAI, Bengaluru.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India for facilitating the timely appointment. The move is aimed at ensuring optimal preparation and continuity as the Indian women’s hockey team gears up for key international competitions.
Q. Exercise Desert Cyclone II was conducted between which two armed forces from 18–30 December 2025?
A. Indian Army and US Army
B. Indian Navy and UAE Navy
C. Indian Army and UAE Land Forces
D. Indian Air Force and UAE Air Force
Q. What is the official title of the Grand International Exposition showcasing the sacred Piprahwa relics related to Bhagwan Buddha, inaugurated in New Delhi in January 2026?
A. Relics of Kapilavastu: The Buddha Legacy
B. Sacred India: Buddhist Heritage and Art
C. Buddha and the Path of Enlightenment
D. The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One
Q. Who took charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force on 1 January 2026?
A. Air Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh
B. Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari
C. Nagesh Kapoor
D. Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor SYSM PVSM AVSM VM assumed charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force on 1 January 2026, succeeding Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, who superannuated after four decades of distinguished service.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Air Marshal Kapoor was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Flying Branch in December 1986. A highly experienced fighter pilot, Qualified Flying Instructor, and Fighter Combat Leader, he has flown all variants of the MiG-21 and MiG-29 aircraft and has logged over 3,400 flying hours on combat and trainer aircraft.
With more than 39 years of illustrious service, he has held a wide range of command, operational, instructional, and staff appointments. His key roles include Commanding Officer of a fighter squadron, Station Commander of a major flying base, Air Officer Commanding of a premier air base, Chief Instructor (Flying) at the Air Force Academy, and Directing Staff at the Defence Services Staff College. He also played a crucial role in the induction and operationalisation of the PC-7 Mk II trainer aircraft.
Air Marshal Kapoor has served as Defence Attaché to Pakistan and held senior strategic positions at Air Headquarters. Prior to his present appointment, he was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Training Command and South Western Air Command. In recognition of his exceptional service, he has been awarded multiple gallantry and distinguished service medals, including Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics, titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, on 3 January 2026 at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex. The exposition marks a historic moment by bringing together, for the first time, the Piprahwa relics recently repatriated after more than a century with authenticated relics and archaeological materials preserved at the National Museum and the Indian Museum.
Discovered in 1898, the Piprahwa relics occupy a pivotal place in the study of early Buddhism and are among the earliest and most significant relic deposits directly associated with Bhagwan Buddha. Archaeological evidence links the Piprahwa site to ancient Kapilavastu, widely identified as the region where Bhagwan Buddha spent his early life before renunciation.
The exposition underscores India’s enduring civilizational connection with Buddhist teachings and reflects the government’s commitment to preserving spiritual and cultural heritage. The successful repatriation of the relics highlights sustained governmental efforts, institutional collaboration, and innovative public–private partnerships.
Curated thematically, the exhibition features a reconstructed interpretive model inspired by the Sanchi Stupa at its core, alongside sections such as Piprahwa Revisited, Life of Buddha, Aesthetic Language of Buddhist Teachings, Global Spread of Buddhist Art, and Repatriation of Cultural Artefacts. Enhanced by immersive audio-visual elements—films, digital reconstructions, and multimedia presentations—the exposition offers the public an accessible and enriching understanding of Bhagwan Buddha’s life, the journey of the Piprahwa relics, and their global cultural significance.
The second edition of the joint military exercise Desert Cyclone II between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces concluded successfully on 30 December 2025 at Al-Hamra Training City, Abu Dhabi, following nearly two weeks of intensive bilateral training held from 18–30 December 2025.
The exercise involved 45 personnel from the Indian Army’s Mechanised Infantry Regiment and troops from the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion of the UAE Land Forces. It was aimed at enhancing interoperability, strengthening defence cooperation, and reinforcing the shared commitment of both nations to regional peace, security, and stability.
Training focused on urban warfare and sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate, preparing both forces for peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and stability operations. The programme combined classroom instruction with field exercises, covering urban combat basics, building marking and clearance, IED awareness, casualty evacuation, first aid, and detailed mission planning.
Practical drills included room intervention, building clearance techniques, heliborne operations, and air assault missions, culminating in integrated offensive and defensive urban operations. These activities demonstrated high levels of coordination, mutual trust, and combat readiness.
Q. India test-fired two ‘Pralay’ missiles in a salvo mode on 31 December 2025. The test was conducted off which state’s coast?
a) Gujarat
b) Tamil Nadu
c) Odisha
d) Andhra Pradesh
Q. On 31 December 2025, the Union Cabinet approved the construction of a 6-lane greenfield access-controlled highway connecting which major cities?
a) Pune–Nagpur
b) Nashik–Solapur–Akkalkot
c) Mumbai–Aurangabad
d) Indore–Bhopal
On 31 December 2025, the Union Cabinet approved two major highway infrastructure projects aimed at boosting connectivity and economic growth.
Six-Lane Nashik–Solapur–Akkalkot Greenfield Corridor (Maharashtra)
Widening & strengthening of NH-326 in Odisha (2-lane with paved shoulders)
India successfully conducted a salvo launch of two ‘Pralay’ surface-to-surface missiles off the Odisha coast on 31 December 2025. The test, conducted by DRDO, was a part of user evaluation trials and was witnessed by officers from the Indian Air Force, Indian Army, and industry representatives, including development and production partners.
‘Pralay’ is an indigenously developed short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) with a strike range of 150–500 km. It uses solid propellant, supports multiple types of warheads, and features advanced guidance and navigation systems for high accuracy. Its quasi-ballistic capability enhances survivability against interception, making it a significant boost to India’s tactical strike capabilities.