1. NATIONAL AFFAIRS (INDIA)
India Post Launches New Speed Post Services
India Post has launched Speed Post 24 and Speed Post 48 services offering guaranteed delivery within 24 hours and 48 hours, respectively.
Announced by Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia during an event in Pichor, Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh.
Renovation of Pichor sub-post office completed at a cost of ₹2 lakh; foundation stone laid for a new building costing ₹1.11 crore.
The initiative aims to modernize postal services with enhanced speed and reliability.
RBI Adjusts Advances & Liquidity Measures
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised the Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limit for states and Union Territories, including setting Delhi’s WMA at ₹8.9 billion.
The total WMA limit for all states/UTs increased to ₹610.08 billion from ₹601.18 billion.
This move enhances financial assistance to sub-national governments for short-term fiscal needs.
RBI Liquidity Infusion
RBI announced a liquidity infusion of ₹1.89 lakh crore through Open Market Operations (OMOs).
A USD/INR buy/sell swap auction of USD 10 billion is scheduled on 13 January 2026 to support system liquidity, currently in deficit.
India’s Renewable Energy Expansion
India’s non-fossil fuel installed capacity reached 266.78 GW in 2025.
This reflects 22.6% growth over 2024 with 49+ GW additions.
Solar capacity increased from 97.86 GW to 135.81 GW, and wind capacity rose from 48.16 GW to 54.51 GW.
Supports India’s target of 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030.
India-Israel Cooperation in Fisheries & Aquaculture
India and Israel signed agreements to strengthen cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture.
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh scheduled to visit Israel from 13–15 January 2026 to participate in the Second Global Summit on Blue Food Security: Sea the Future.
2. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
2025–2026 Iranian Protests Intensify
Iran continues to witness widespread protests triggered by economic hardship and demands for political reforms.
Significant protests occurred in Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz, Qom, and Zahedan.
Heavy government crackdown with internet shutdowns, detentions, and lethal force.
Reports indicate multiple casualties during demonstrations and sustained civil unrest across Iran.
Lebanese Political Developments (Ongoing 2026 Events)
2026 Lebanese General Elections have shaped political landscape with President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam leading reform-oriented governance.
The elections are seen as reducing sectarian power influences and bolstering judicial, economic, and anti-corruption frameworks.
Developments in Indonesia – January 2026
Flash floods affected around 40 homes in West Sumatra and 16 deaths in North Sulawesi due to extreme weather.
New Indonesian Penal Code took effect, replacing colonial-era laws.
Government blocked access to a major AI service due to misuse concerns.
A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck North Sulawesi, causing structural damage.
Events in the Philippines – Early January 2026
Ban on light electric vehicles on major roads in Metro Manila began.
Arrest of a retired air force general on sedition charges.
Mayon Volcano raised to Alert Level 3, signifying heightened volcanic activity.
Landfill collapse in Cebu City, with at least 11 fatalities and 25+ missing.
U.S. & Global Geopolitical Movements
The U.S. has signaled potential escalated actions regarding Iran protests and geopolitical tensions, with high-level briefings underway.
Litigation and political friction over immigration enforcement in U.S. states highlights domestic policy disputes.
3. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & SPACE
India’s First Major Space Mission of 2026
Scheduled launch on 12 January 2026 from Bengaluru featured:
A key defense satellite developed by DRDO.
A satellite for Nepal, supported by India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
On-orbit refueling test technology from an Indian startup.
Total of 15 satellites, including international payloads (UK, France, Brazil).
4. SPORTS UPDATES
(No major confirmed sports results specifically dated 13 January 2026 were available at publishing time.)
5. AWARDS, HONOURS & DEATHS
Passing of Olympian Davinder Singh Garcha
Olympic gold medallist Davinder Singh Garcha passed away at the age of 73.
Renowned for contributions to Indian athletics and international sporting excellence.
6. IMPORTANT DAYS & FESTIVALS
National Youth Day Observed
12 January 2026 marked as National Youth Day across India, celebrating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda and promoting youth empowerment.
Regional School Holidays
13 January 2026 observed as a school holiday in several Indian states due to winter vacations and local festivals.
7. KEY FACTS & DATA POINTS FOR EXAMS
India’s renewable energy installed capacity: 266.78 GW in 2025.
WMA limit total: ₹610.08 billion.
RBI liquidity infusion: ₹1.89 lakh crore.
India-Israel fisheries cooperation summit: 13–15 January 2026.
Iran protests continue with significant civil unrest and communication blackouts.
Space mission (12 Jan 2026): defense + foreign satellites + on-orbit refueling test.
