1. National News – India
Projecting India’s Economic Growth (UN-DESA Report)
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA) projected India’s GDP growth at 6.6% in 2026 and 6.7% in 2027 based on the World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2026report.
Global growth is expected to moderate to 2.7% in 2026, with global trade growth slowing to 2.2%.
Domestic GDP (NSO first advance estimates) shows 7.4% growth for FY26, while State Bank of India’s Ecowrap projects 7.5% GDP growth for FY26.
India remains the fastest-growing major economy globally.
Inflation for India in 2025 forecast at 4.1%.
India to Host International Conference on Democracy
India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) scheduled from 21–23 January 2026 in New Delhi.
Around 100 delegates from 42 Election Management Bodies (EMBs) worldwide to participate with the theme “Democracy for an inclusive, resilient and sustainable world”.
Important Days in January 2026
10 January: World Hindi Day – Celebrating the international use and significance of Hindi.
Other significant days this month include Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birthdayand Republic Day among others.
2. Banking and Economy
RBI Actions on NBFCs
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the Certificate of Registration of 35 Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) due to regulatory non-compliance, effective December 2025.
An additional 16 NBFCs voluntarily surrendered their registration, exiting formal NBFC business.
Banking Sector Updates
RBI eased capital adequacy norms for NBFCs lending to high-quality infrastructure projects through updated Prudential Norms (2026).
BRISKPE, backed by Prosus, received RBI’s final authorisation as a Payment Aggregator–Cross Border (PA-CB) under the Payments & Settlement Systems Act.
Financial product launches include IDFC First Bank’s premium metal credit card ‘Gaj’ offered to high-net-worth individuals.
Corporate Banking News
HSBC agreed to pay €267.5 million to settle tax fraud claims in France, resolving allegations relating to dividend tax issues.
Banking industry focus continues on digital security and innovation.
3. International Affairs
Global Economic Outlook
Global expansion projected to moderate in 2026; trade growth slows significantly compared with previous year.
India expected to remain a standout economy among major global peers.
US Foreign and Energy Policy Drives Headlines
Former US President emphasised investment commitments of more than $100 billion in Venezuelan oil infrastructure.
Statements regarding strategic interests in Greenland and stern remarks concerning potential Iranian retaliation for protests also emerged in international discussions.
National Elections Worldwide – 11 January
Benin: Parliamentary elections held on 11 January 2026.
Myanmar: Second phase of parliamentary elections conducted on 11 January 2026, continuing multi-phase voting.
India–Europe Strategic Partnership
Indian External Affairs Minister underscored stronger India–Europe cooperation to support global economic and political stability, following bilateral talks in Paris.
4. Appointments & Administration
Major Judicial Appointment
Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta appointed as Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court on 10 January 2026.
Regulatory Appointments
A.K. Balasubrahmanian appointed Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
Ida Liu appointed CEO of HSBC Private Bank, marking a significant leadership change in banking.
Other recent appointments include CEOs and heads in key financial and industry councils, enhancing governance frameworks in related sectors.
5. Sports News
European Water Polo Championship 2026
The 37th edition of the Men’s European Water Polo Championship commenced on 10 January 2026 in Belgrade, Serbia, featuring 16 national teams in competition.
2026 Masters (Snooker)
The 2026 Johnstone’s Paint Masters tournament is scheduled from 11–18 January 2026 at Alexandra Palace, London.
Prize fund of £1,015,000 with the winner’s share of £350,000.
Top global players, including John Higgins and newcomers, compete for the prestigious title.
NBA Update – Victor Wembanyama
Victor Wembanyama cleared to play for the San Antonio Spurs against the Boston Celtics following recovery from a knee injury, boosting team prospects.
World Indoor Bowls Championships 2026
The event continues at Potters Resorts, with multiple categories including men’s and women’s singles and pairs.
6. Key Facts & Figures for Competitive Exams
India GDP Growth 2026 (UN-DESA): 6.6%
India GDP Growth FY26 (SBI projection): 7.5%
RBI Regulatory Action: 35 NBFC CoRs cancelled, 16 surrendered
HSBC France Settlement: €267.5 million
European Water Polo: 16 teams in competition
Snooker Masters Prize Fund: £1,015,000 with £350,000 winner’s share
IICDEM Conference: 100 delegates from 42 EMBs, 21–23 January 2026
