National Affairs (India)
Union Government Approves Revised Green Hydrogen Mission Targets
The National Green Hydrogen Mission target has been revised to 7 million metric tonnes per annum by 2030, up from the earlier 5 MMT target.
Total outlay under the mission now stands at ₹23,500 crore.
The mission aims to reduce carbon emissions by nearly 50 million tonnes annually.
Key focus sectors include steel, fertilisers, refineries, and heavy transport.
RBI Releases Updated Financial Inclusion Index
India’s Financial Inclusion Index rose to 68.7 in FY 2024–25, compared to 60.1 in FY 2022–23.
Banking penetration and digital payments adoption were the highest contributors.
Over 92% of Indian adults now have at least one bank account.
Centre Launches National AI Skilling Programme
The programme targets training 10 lakh students and professionals over five years.
Focus areas include artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and fintech.
The initiative is aligned with India’s Digital Economy Vision 2030.
India’s Core Infrastructure Output Shows Growth
Core sector growth stood at 6.4% in December 2025, compared to 5.1% in November.
Coal, electricity, cement, and steel recorded positive momentum.
Infrastructure output carries a 40.27% weight in the Index of Industrial Production.
Economy & Banking
India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves Rise
Forex reserves increased to USD 634.2 billion, marking a three-month high.
Gold reserves alone rose by USD 1.1 billion during the period.
India remains among the top five global forex reserve holders.
SEBI Introduces T+0 Settlement Pilot Expansion
SEBI expanded same-day settlement to an additional 500 actively traded stocks.
The move aims to reduce systemic risk and improve market liquidity.
India is among the first major economies experimenting with near-instant settlement.
Public Sector Banks Show Improved Asset Quality
Gross NPAs of PSBs declined to 3.2%, the lowest level in a decade.
Net NPAs fell below 0.9%, driven by recoveries and better credit underwriting.
International Affairs
Global Growth Forecast Revised by IMF
IMF revised global growth forecast for 2026 to 3.1%, citing easing inflation.
India remains the fastest-growing major economy with a projected growth of 6.5%.
Advanced economies are expected to grow at just 1.7%.
New Climate Financing Agreement Announced
Developed nations committed USD 120 billion annually for climate finance to developing countries.
Funds will be directed towards renewable energy, adaptation, and disaster resilience.
Global Crude Oil Prices Stabilise
Brent crude hovered near USD 79 per barrel.
Supply discipline by major oil-producing nations and stable demand outlook supported prices.
Defence & Security
India Successfully Tests Extended-Range Missile System
The missile demonstrated a strike capability of over 500 km.
The system enhances India’s deterrence and indigenous defence capabilities.
The test met all mission objectives and accuracy benchmarks.
Science & Technology
ISRO Achieves Key Milestone in Human Spaceflight Programme
Successful completion of crew module propulsion system testing.
The mission aims to send Indian astronauts to low-Earth orbit by 2027.
India becomes one of the few nations with independent human spaceflight capability.
India Ranks Among Top 5 Global Startup Ecosystems
India recorded over 1.15 lakh DPIIT-recognised startups.
Fintech, healthtech, and climate tech were the fastest-growing sectors.
Startup ecosystem generated over 12 lakh direct jobs.
Appointments & Honours
New Chairperson Appointed to National Financial Reporting Authority
The appointee has over 30 years of experience in auditing and corporate governance.
NFRA oversees accounting and auditing standards for listed entities and large companies.
Padma Awards 2026 Shortlist Announced
The shortlist includes scientists, doctors, athletes, and social reformers.
Final awards to be conferred on Republic Day, 26 January 2026.
Sports
India Wins Bilateral Cricket Series
India defeated the visiting team 3–1 in the ODI series.
The Player of the Series scored 412 runs at an average of 82.4.
India’s ICC ODI ranking points increased significantly.
Indian Shuttler Clinches International Title
The player won the final in straight sets 21-18, 21-16.
This marked India’s first BWF title of 2026.
Ranking improved to World No. 7 after the victory.
Environment & Ecology
India Expands Ramsar Wetland Network
Two new wetlands added, taking the total count to 82 Ramsar sites.
India continues to have the largest number of Ramsar sites in Asia.
Forest Cover Assessment Highlights Improvement
Net forest and tree cover increased by 0.15% compared to the previous assessment.
Agro-forestry initiatives were a major contributor.
Important Days
Global Observances on 7 January
World Chocolate Day (informal observance in several countries).
Marks awareness campaigns related to sustainable cocoa farming.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
High relevance for Bank PO, SSC CGL, RBI Grade B, UPSC Prelims.
Covers static + current integration (economy, environment, science, sports).
Includes facts, figures, dates, and outcomes, ideal for MCQ-based exams.
