🇮🇳 NATIONAL AFFAIRS
1. India-EU Landmark Free Trade Agreement
India and the European Union (EU) finalised a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on 27 January 2026 after nearly two decades of negotiations.
The deal is described as the “mother of all trade deals”, creating a free trade zone covering ~2 billion people and about 25% of global GDP.
It aims to slash tariffs on most goods and services, enhance market access, and boost investment flows between India and the EU.
It is expected to eliminate or cut tariffs on 96.6% of traded goods by value, potentially doubling EU exports to India by 2032 and saving ~€4 billion in duties annually.
Key sectors gaining from tariff cuts include textiles, machinery, chemicals, petroleum products, and electrical equipment; sensitive sectors like dairy and cereals were kept out.
Formal ratification processes will follow, and implementation is likely in late 2026 or 2027.
2. Odisha Statewide Bandh (General Strike)
A statewide bandh (shutdown) was observed in Odisha on 28 January 2026 from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM led by the Navnirman Krushak Sangathan protesting paddy procurement mismanagement.
Political support was extended by the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee.
Essential services like hospitals and emergency providers continued functioning; however, transport and schoolsfaced disruption.
3. Republic Day Related Highlights (Post 26 Jan Ceremonies)
India concluded 77th Republic Day celebrations marking adoption of the Constitution on 26 January 2026, with the Retreat Ceremony continuing until 29 January 2026.
The parade featured military, cultural and technological showcases including fighter flypasts, defence exhibitions, and thematic tableaus reflecting national diversity and strength.
4. JEE Main 2026 Session-1 Admit Cards Released
Admit cards were issued for JEE Main 2026 Session-1, with exams scheduled on 28 & 29 January 2026.
Candidates must carry the admit card and valid photo ID for entry; the exam is a crucial gateway to NITs, IIITs, CFTIs engineering programs.
🌍 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
5. 56th World Economic Forum (Davos 2026) Outcomes
The 56th World Economic Forum, held 19–23 January 2026 in Davos, Switzerland, focused on global cooperation amidst geopolitical tensions and trade challenges.
Key themes included innovation, economic growth, sustainable development, and cooperation in contested global environments.
Leaders engaged in discussions on supply chain resilience, climate challenges, and strategic economic partnerships.
6. Global Trade & Diplomacy
The India-EU trade deal reflects strategic shifts in global economic cooperation, with key international focus on lowering trade barriers amid rising tariff tensions in major economies.
🪩 EVENTS & EXPO
7. Wings India 2026 – Asia’s Largest Aviation Expo
The Wings India 2026 civil aviation expo commenced on 28 January 2026 at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabadand continues till 31 January 2026.
Organized by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, AAI and FICCI, the four-day event is Asia’s largest and features global airline reps, policymakers, manufacturers, and aviation stakeholders.
Highlights include aircraft displays from Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, UAC, aerobatic demonstrations, CEO forums, B2B/B2G meetings, and job fairs.
🏦 ECONOMIC & BUSINESS AFFAIRS
8. India-EU Trade Pact – Economic Impact
India-EU bilateral trade, which was ~$190 billion in 2024-25, is expected to grow substantially due to tariff reductions and expanded services access.
Tariff cuts span goods such as wine, vehicles, machinery, and services, enhancing global competitiveness for Indian exports.
⚡ SCIENCE & ASTROLOGY
9. Astrological Transit – Mars in Shravana Nakshatra
On 28 January 2026, Mars transited into Shravana Nakshatra in Capricorn, an important astrological event considered to influence focus, network building, self-growth, and interpersonal communication until 14 February 2026.
🏅 AWARDS & HONOURS
10. 2026 Padma Awards Quick Facts
Veteran actor Dharmendra Singh Deol was posthumously honoured with the Padma Vibhushan 2026.
Cricketer Rohit Sharma received the Padma Shri 2026.
Former Kerala CM V.S. Achuthanandan was also awarded Padma Vibhushan.
A total of 13 Padma Bhushan awards were conferred.
🏆 SPORTS UPDATES
11. 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup – Preparations
The 10th ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is scheduled from 7 February to 8 March 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka with 20 teams and 55 matches.
India enters as defending champions and warm-ups started in early February.
📌 QUICK FACTS & ONE-LINERS
Odisha Bandh impacted transport and banking activities during protest hours.
Wings India 2026 expected >100,000 visitors with 500+ meetings.
JEE Main 2026 Session-1 competitive exam underway with admit card release on 27 Jan.
Mars transit into Shravana offers astrological significance to planners and investors.
