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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Reserve Bank of India Sets ₹890 Crore Ways and Means Advances Limit for Delhi Government

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has fixed the Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limit for the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) at ₹890 crore.
• The revised WMA limit for Delhi is effective from January 09, 2026, to manage temporary mismatches in receipts and payments.
• With this revision, the aggregate WMA limit for all State Governments and Union Territories has increased to ₹61,008 crore, from the earlier ₹60,118 crore.
• Ways and Means Advances (WMA) are short-term credit facilities provided by the RBI to the Central Government, State Governments, and Union Territories.
• The objective of WMA is to bridge temporary cash flow mismatches, not to provide long-term financing.
• The highest WMA limits among states are Uttar Pradesh (₹6,519 crore), Maharashtra (₹6,139 crore), and Tamil Nadu (₹4,582 crore).
• The WMA limits are reviewed on a semi-annual basis, usually for the first and second halves of the financial year.
• The interest rate on WMA is linked to the RBI repo rate, making it a policy-aligned liquidity tool.
• The interest rate on Overdrafts (OD) availed beyond WMA is 2 percentage points above the repo rate.
• The repayment period for WMA is capped at 90 days, ensuring short-term liquidity management discipline.
• WMA and Overdraft facilities are key instruments used by the RBI to support fiscal cash management of governments while maintaining monetary stability.

About WMA :

• Ways and Means Advances (WMA) are temporary loan facilities provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to the Central and State Governments to manage short-term mismatches in receipts and expenditures.
• WMA are meant only for temporary cash flow support and cannot be used for long-term financing.
• The WMA scheme was introduced on April 1, 1997, as part of India’s fiscal cash management framework.
• Section 17(5) of the RBI Act, 1934 authorises the RBI to lend to Central and State Governments, provided the advance is repayable within three months (90 days).
• There are two types of WMA, namely Normal WMA and Special WMA (SDF – Special Drawing Facility).
• Under Normal WMA, a fixed borrowing limit is prescribed, and the interest rate is equal to the RBI repo rate.
• Special WMA (SDF) allows additional borrowing beyond Normal WMA, backed by Government Securities held by the State Government.
• The interest rate on Special WMA (SDF) is one percentage point lower than the repo rate.
• Normal WMA can be availed only after the SDF limit is exhausted by the State Government.
• The maximum duration of WMA is 90 days, reinforcing its short-term nature.
• If the WMA amount is not repaid within 90 days, it is treated as an Overdraft (OD).
• The interest rate on Overdrafts is 2 percentage points higher than the RBI repo rate.
• WMA interest rates are directly linked to the repo rate, ensuring alignment with monetary policy signals.
• The WMA limits are fixed by the RBI in consultation with the Government and are reviewed periodically.
• The number and size of Normal WMA loans are determined based on the three-year average of actual revenue and capital expenditure of the State.

Reserve Bank of India Issues 2026 Amendment to All India Financial Institutions Prudential Norms on Capital Adequacy

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs) – Prudential Norms on Capital Adequacy (Amendment) Directions, 2026, which are effective immediately.
• The amendment revises the risk-weighting of non-resident corporate exposures, aligning them with international credit rating standards.
• Risk weights for non-resident corporate exposures will now be based on ratings from S&P, Fitch, and Moody’s, improving global alignment.
• A separate risk-weight mapping has been introduced for IFSC-origin exposures rated by CareEdge Global IFSC Limited.
• For IFSC-origin non-resident corporate exposures, RBI has prescribed the following risk weights: 20% for AAA, 30% for AA, 50% for A, 100% for BBB, and 150% for BB & below.
• Unrated claims with exposure above ₹200 crore, or earlier-rated but now unrated exposures above ₹100 crore, will attract a 150% risk weight.
• Unrated corporate claims cannot receive a lower risk weight than the sovereign of the country where the borrower is incorporated.
• CareEdge Global IFSC Limited has been formally recognised by RBI as an eligible rating agency for specified IFSC-origin non-resident corporate exposures.
• The amendments are aimed at strengthening capital adequacy norms, ensuring risk-sensitive capital allocation, and enhancing prudential standards for AIFIs.

Bank of Baroda Gets Reserve Bank of India Nod to Transfer Primary Dealer Operations to Wholly Owned Subsidiary  

• Bank of Baroda (BoB) has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to transfer its existing Primary Dealer (PD) authorisation to a wholly owned subsidiary.
• The proposed subsidiary will operate as a Standalone Primary Dealer (SPD), subject to additional regulatory approvals.
• The move will enable Bank of Baroda to conduct SPD business independently, separating it from banking operations.

Key Highlights :

• The Primary Dealer (PD) system was introduced by the RBI in 1995 to strengthen the Government Securities (G-Sec) market in India.
• The PD framework aims to improve underwriting, market-making, and liquidity in the G-Sec market.
• Primary Dealers play a key role in making the G-Sec market vibrant, liquid, and broad-based, outside direct RBI intervention.
• PDs are expected to enhance the secondary market trading system, leading to better price discovery, liquidity, and turnover.
• Primary Dealers act as an effective conduit for Open Market Operations (OMO) conducted by the RBI.
• To broaden the PD system, banks were permitted in 2006–07 to undertake PD business departmentally.
• Standalone Primary Dealers (SPDs) are allowed to diversify into non-core business activities, subject to RBI-specified conditions.
• At present, there are 7 Standalone Primary Dealers (SPDs) operating in India.
• Major SPDs include SBI DFHI, ICICI Securities Primary Dealership, PNB Gilts, and STCI Primary Dealer.
• Currently, there are 14 Bank Primary Dealers, including Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, Union Bank of India, and IDBI Bank.

Reserve Bank of India Grants Payment Aggregator–Cross Border Licence to Bengaluru-Based Fintech Skydo

• Skydo, a Bengaluru-based payments firm, has received final authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a Payment Aggregator–Cross Border (PA-CB).

Key Highlights :

• The PA-CB licence allows Skydo to legally aggregate and process cross-border payments for Indian exporters under a formal regulatory framework.
• This approval marks a major milestone, positioning Skydo among the first fintech firms to receive this specific license in India’s evolving digital payments ecosystem.
• For non-bank entities, the minimum net worth requirement for a PA-CB licence is ₹15 crore at the time of application, which must be increased to ₹25 crore within the RBI-specified timeframe.
• Skydo primarily supports Indian exporters, particularly MSMEs, freelancers, and small businesses, by simplifying international payment collections.
• The platform currently serves over 30,000 MSMEs across more than 50 cities in India.
• Exporters can receive payments locally from overseas clients in over 32 foreign currencies.
• The company follows a flat-fee pricing model with no markup on live mid-market foreign exchange (FX) rates, offering faster settlement cycles.
• With the new license, Skydo plans to expand its international payment corridors and launch new products to strengthen the export ecosystem.
• The company has already enabled local payment acceptance in complex regions like Africa, improving global market access.
• Skydo recently raised $10 million in Series A funding, led by Susquehanna Asia Venture Capital, with participation from Elevation Capital.
• The company’s total funding now stands at $20 million, reflecting strong investor confidence in its business model.
• Skydo has set an ambitious target of reaching $5 billion in annualised payment volumes by 2027.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Centre Launches ₹235 Crore Port Infrastructure & Digital Governance Projects in Tamil Nadu

• The Central Government rolled out projects worth ₹235 crore in Tamil Nadu to strengthen port infrastructure and enhance digital maritime governance.
• The projects were launched by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, during the “Viksit Bharat, Viksit Ports” programme in Chennai.
• The initiative focuses on developing climate-resilient, digitally enabled and globally competitive ports, improving port safety, operational efficiency, and ease of doing business.
• The reforms align with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi under Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat, with emphasis on port modernisation, coastal resilience, and trade facilitation.
• Out of the total allocation, ₹129.36 crore is for Chennai Port Authority, and ₹105.64 crore for Kamarajar Port Limited.

• At Chennai Port, foundation stones were laid for:
  Strengthening coastal revetment behind the Coastal Berth over 850 metres using climate-resilient technology
  • Construction of a new firefighting pump house at Oil Dock Area to meet OISD safety norms
  • Modernisation of Chennai Port Hospital to upgrade public healthcare facilities

• At Kamarajar Port, foundation stone laid for a new boundary wall connecting the Northern Port Access Road, improving logistics efficiency and access control.
• As part of One Nation – One Port Process, the minister launched the e-Port Clearance Portal enabling online submission and issuance of Port Clearance Certificates, including advance clearances.
• The portal will reduce ship turnaround time, enhance predictability, and support nationwide maritime trade facilitation.

India Launches Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) 2026

• India launched the Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) 2026 to strengthen the link between science, technology, and diplomacy.
• The initiative is jointly launched by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).
• Announcement made by Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood (PSA) and Dr. Samir Saran (President, ORF) at the PSA Office.
• The initiative will operate alongside the Raisina Dialogue 2026, scheduled from 5th to 7th March 2026 in New Delhi.
• The initiative reflects growing importance of science and technology in global diplomacy.
• Major reasons: maintaining strategic autonomy, strengthening India’s role as an emerging global power, ensuring technology governance, promoting equitable participation in global standards, and addressing research security and technology control.
• Objective is to create a dedicated platform within Raisina Dialogue for science and technology diplomacy discussions.
• Focus areas include governance of disruptive and emerging technologies, research security, intellectual property protection, technology control regimes, global standards participation, and scientific collaboration amid strategic competition.
• Institutional partnership: Office of PSA + ORF.

First Phase of All-India Tiger Estimation (AITE-26) Begins at Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

• The first phase of All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 (AITE-26) began at Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Erode Forest Division, Tamil Nadu.
• It is a national wildlife census to estimate tiger population, assess prey density, habitat quality, and ecosystem health using standard scientific methods.
• Forest staff underwent structured training before field deployment to ensure accuracy and uniformity in data collection.
• Field operations launched across 4 forest ranges – Anthiyur, Bargur, Chennampatti and Thattakarai.
• More than 150 trained personnel were deployed covering 52 forest patrol beats for systematic data coverage.
• For the first 3 days, survey conducted using the Line Transect Method which includes recording pugmarks, droppings, direct sightings, and surveying predefined forest paths.
• Along with tigers, documentation includes co-predators like leopards and large mammals like elephants, gaur and bears.
• Important feature: Census also covers forest divisions with carnivores outside tiger reserves, ensuring wider ecological data.
• Next 3 days focus on prey base and habitat assessment including elephants, deer, gaur, vultures, and vegetation study (trees, shrubs, weeds, grasses, undergrowth).
• This approach helps assess habitat quality, food availability, and ecosystem balance, crucial for tiger conservation.
• All-India Tiger Estimation is conducted once every 4 years.
• Line Transect Method is a standard wildlife study technique.
• Tiger conservation in India is overseen by National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
• Field survey in Erode Forest Division will conclude on 12th January 2026.
• Collected data on tigers, herbivores, birds and vegetation will be compiled and submitted to NTCA by 31st January 2026.
• National consolidated report of AITE-26 will be released in 2027, supporting policy formulation and long-term conservation planning.

Public Investment Board Approves Kamala Hydroelectric Project, Arunachal Pradesh

• The Kamala Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh has been approved by the Public Investment Board (PIB).
• It will support clean energy generation, flood control, and employment creation, contributing to India’s Net-Zero target by 2070.
• The project was earlier known as Subansiri Middle Hydroelectric Project.
• Location: On Kamala River in Kamle, Kra Daadi and Kurung Kumey districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
• It is a storage-based hydropower project with an integrated flood moderation component.
• Expected annual electricity generation: 6,870 million units, strengthening regional and national power grids.
• Major technical features include a 216-metre-high concrete gravity dam and an underground powerhouse.
• Project completion period: 96 months (8 years).
• The storage system will regulate river flow and provide flood protection for downstream areas, especially the Brahmaputra Valley.
• Project will be developed under the Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model.
• Equity Structure: NHPC – 74% and Government of Arunachal Pradesh – 26%.
• Total Project Cost: ₹26,070 crore.
• Funding Pattern: 70:30 debt-equity ratio.
• Central Government support includes ₹1,340 crore for infrastructure and ₹4,744 crore for flood moderation.
• The State Government will reimburse GST on the project.
• Levelised Tariff: ₹5.97 per unit.
• Employment Generation: Around 300 direct jobs and 2,500 contractual jobs during peak construction.
• The project will improve infrastructure in remote regions, enhance power grid stability in the Northeast, and support India’s renewable energy transition.
• Installed Capacity: 1,720 MW.
• Type: Storage-based hydropower with flood control.
• Location: Kamle, Kra Daadi and Kurung Kumey districts, Arunachal Pradesh.
• Stakeholders: NHPC – 74%, State Government – 26%.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Inaugurates National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS)

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS).
• NIDMS is India’s first platform to record details of all bomb blasts and IED incidents from 1999 to present.
• The platform will help police and security agencies investigate terrorism-related incidents more effectively and strengthen national security.
• NIDMS is an online database managed by the National Security Guard (NSG), Manesar, Haryana.
• It provides access to police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and investigative agencies to retrieve blast-related data.
• The platform uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to connect scattered data, analyse patterns, identify links and help predict future threats.
• It helps in investigating terrorist attacks, understanding explosion trends, identifying types of explosives/devices used, and framing preventive strategies.
• The system records detailed information such as location of blast, type of explosion and devices used.
• Example: Same timer device was used in the 2024 Rameswaram café blast and the 2022 Mangaluru blast, helping link incidents and suspects.
• NSG regional hubs are located in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad, with a new hub planned in Ayodhya.
• Once fully functional, these hubs will reduce NSG emergency response time to 1 – 1.5 hours.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Akasa Air Becomes India’s Fifth Airline to Join International Air Transport Association

• Akasa Air has become a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), a global body representing over 360 airlines accounting for 80% of global air traffic.
• With Akasa Air’s inclusion, India now has five IATA member airlines: Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet.
• Akasa Air was founded in 2020 by Vinay Dube and was backed by the late Rakesh Jhunjhunwala with a $35 million investment.
• The airline has served over 23 million passengers, operating across 26 domestic and 6 international destinations.
• Akasa Air aims to build a 226-aircraft Boeing 737 MAX fleet by the end of this decade, positioning itself among the world’s top 30 airlines.
• The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a global trade association representing the airline industry, with its headquarters in Montreal, Canada.
• IATA membership allows Akasa Air to follow global safety, operational, and regulatory standards, enhancing its international credibility and market integration.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026) – Five Indian Films Eligible for Best Picture Category

• 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026) has recognized five Indian films as eligible for the Best Picture category.
• The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) released a list of 201 feature films qualifying for Best Picture and 317 films across all categories.
• This recognition reflects the growing global presence of Indian cinema and is a proud moment for India.
• Indian Films in Best Picture Reminder List:
• Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 (Kannada) – Directed by Rishabh Shetty
• Tanvi The Great (Hindi) – Directed by Anupam Kher
• Mahavatar Narsimha – Multilingual Animated Feature
• Tourist Family (Tamil) – Directed by debut filmmaker Abishan Jeevinth
• Sister Midnight (Hindi–UK co-production) – Starring Radhika Apte
• Other Indian Films Eligible in General Categories:
• Homebound by Neeraj Ghaywan – India’s Official Entry for International Feature Film
• Dashavatar (Marathi)
• Gevi (Tamil)
• Humans in the Loop
• Mahamantra – The Great Chant
• Papa Buka – India–Papua New Guinea Co-production
• Paper Flowers
• Paro: The Untold Story of Bride Slavery
• Eligibility Criteria for Best Picture – Oscars 2026:
• Film must run in at least 10 U.S. theatres for 45 days in 2025
• Submission of RAISE (Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry) Form
• Must meet minimum 2 out of 4 AMPAS inclusion standards
• Criteria ensure diversity, representation and inclusivity

• Oscars 2026 Timeline:

• Nominations Voting: 12 – 16 January 2026
• Nominations Announcement: 22 January 2026
• Awards Ceremony: 15 March 2026
• Venue: Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles, California, USA

About Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS):

• President: Lynette Howell Taylor
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, USA
• Established: 1927
• Responsible for recognizing global cinematic excellence and presenting the Oscars.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. Secures ‘Excellent’ MoU Rating for FY 2024–25

• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) received an ‘Excellent’ rating in the MoU evaluation with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) for FY 2024–25.
• IREDA scored 96.42 out of 100, reflecting top-level performance, efficiency, and financial discipline.
• The MoU rating is an annual evaluation mechanism through which government enterprises are assessed on their work performance, financial management, and governance standards.
• An ‘Excellent’ rating signifies strong management, high operational standards, and outstanding performance.
• IREDA achieved this rating for the 5th consecutive year, demonstrating consistent excellence in
• Operational Efficiency
• Financial Discipline
• Good Corporate Governance
• IREDA has emerged as India’s largest pure-play Green NBFC while supporting the rapidly expanding renewable energy sector.
• In FY 2019–20, IREDA had received only a ‘Fair’ rating with a score of 45.83, but major reforms in systems, processes, and work culture enabled continuous improvement to ‘Excellent’ ratings.
• The CMD expressed gratitude to
• Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi
• Minister of State Shri Shripad Yesso Naik
• MNRE Secretary Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi
• Board of Directors
  for their continuous guidance and support.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND INDEX

Bengaluru Ranked Best City for Women in India – 2025

• Bengaluru has been ranked the best city for women in India (2025), emerging as the top performer in a national study on urban inclusion for women.
• The ranking highlights Bengaluru’s strong social infrastructure, robust industrial opportunities, better safety environment, and career growth ecosystem for women.
• The study was released by Avtar, a Chennai-based workplace inclusion firm, which assessed 125 cities across India under the City Inclusion Index.
• Top 5 Cities (2025 Ranking):
• 1st – Bengaluru: 53.29
• 2nd – Chennai: 49.86
• 3rd – Pune: 46.27
• 4th – Hyderabad
• 5th – Mumbai
• The rankings show dominance of Southern and Western metropolitan cities in creating women-friendly environments.
• The City Inclusion Index is based on two pillars:
• Social Inclusion Score – evaluates safety, security, health, education, mobility, transport and liveability.
• Industrial Inclusion Score – measures formal employment, skilling and upskilling opportunities, corporate diversity policies, and women workforce participation.
• Bengaluru ranked highest in industrial inclusion due to:
• Strong corporate and technology ecosystem
• High concentration of formal sector jobs
• Widespread diversity and inclusion policies
• Chennai ranked highest in social inclusion, supported by stronger public services and safety systems.
• Pune and Hyderabad showed balanced performance across both pillars, ensuring steady workforce participation for women.
• Southern India recorded the highest regional scores, followed by Western India, while Central and Eastern regions lagged mainly in industrial inclusion.
• Top 10 Cities (2025): Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Gurugram, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Thiruvananthapuram and Coimbatore.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Indian Army and HDFC Bank Extend Memorandum of Understanding for Three More Years

• The Indian Army and HDFC Bank have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) till 2029 to continue providing banking services and insurance cover to Army personnel.
• The MoU covers serving and retired Army personnel, including Agniveers and pensioners.
• As part of the agreement, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) of ₹1 crore is provided for accidental death or permanent disability.
• An additional ₹1 crore Air Accident Insurance cover is included to protect against air travel-related accidents.
• The MoU provides ₹5 lakh child education cover to support families in case of a casualty.
• A ₹5 lakh girl child marriage cover is also included as part of the welfare benefits for Army families.
• The renewed agreement aims to strengthen financial security and social protection for Indian Army personnel and their families.
• HDFC Bank offers tailored banking services, including loans, savings accounts, and digital banking facilities, specifically designed for the Army community.
• The MoU ensures comprehensive financial and welfare support, covering insurance, education, and social protection for Army personnel and their dependents.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta Named Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court

• The Department of Justice (DoJ) under the Ministry of Law and Justice (MoL&J) announced the appointment of Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta as the new Chief Justice (CJ) of Uttarakhand High Court (HC).
• The appointment was made by the President of India under Article 217(1) of the Indian Constitution.
• Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta will assume office following the retirement of incumbent CJ Justice Guhanathan (G.) Narendra on January 09, 2026.
• The appointment of Justice Gupta was recommended by the Supreme Court (SC) Collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant.
• Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta was enrolled as an advocate on December 06, 1987 and has over 25 years of practice, mainly in civil, rent control, and constitutional law.
• He was elevated to Additional Judge of Allahabad HC on April 12, 2013 and became a Permanent Judge in April 2015.
• He served as Acting Chief Justice of Allahabad HC on November 22, 2023.
• Justice Gupta is currently a Member of the Administrative Committee of Allahabad HC and Executive Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh (UP) State Legal Services Authority (SLSA).
• He is scheduled to retire on October 08, 2026.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

SoftBank Sells 2.15% Stake in Ola Electric Through SVF II Ostrich

• SoftBank, through its investment arm SVF II Ostrich (DE) LLC, sold a 2.15% stake in Ola Electric Mobility Limited.
• The January 5, 2026 transaction crossed the 2% disclosure threshold under SEBI rules, requiring regulatory reporting.
• After this sale, SoftBank’s holding in Ola Electric declined from 15.68% to 13.53%.
• Earlier, between July 15 and September 2, 2025, SoftBank had reduced its stake in Ola Electric from 17.83% to 15.68%.
• The stake reduction by SoftBank reflects its ongoing portfolio rebalancing and partial exit strategy in Ola Electric Mobility Limited.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Ministry of Women and Child Development Launches ‘PANKHUDI’ Portal to Enhance CSR and Partnerships for Women and Child Welfare

• Union Minister Annapurna Devi, Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), launched the ‘PANKHUDI’ portal in New Delhi, Delhi, an integrated CSR and partnership facilitation digital platform.
• The PANKHUDI portal is a single-window digital platform designed to facilitate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and partnerships, unifying voluntary and institutional contributions for women and child welfare.
• The portal brings together individuals, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), corporates, and Central and State Government agencies on a common digital platform.
• Key features include real-time tracking, a unified digital workflow, and complete transparency through non-cash contributions with a full digital audit trail.
• The portal covers thematic areas such as nutrition, health, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), child welfare, protection, rehabilitation, and women’s safety and empowerment.
• PANKHUDI supports flagship missions including Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation), Mission Saksham Anganwadi, Poshan 2.0, Mission Vatsalya (Child Protection Services), and Mission Shakti (Women Safety, Security, and Empowerment).
• The platform is aimed at improving coordination among stakeholders and enhancing the impact of CSR and government initiatives for women and children.
• PANKHUDI portal strengthens digital governance, accountability, and transparency in CSR and welfare schemes.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh Launches Two Global-Standard Labs at Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi

• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Science and Technology, inaugurated two apex national facilities at CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) during its 80th Foundation Day.
• The facilities include the National Environmental Standard Laboratory (NSEL), the world’s second such facility, and the National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration, the world’s fifth of its kind.

Key Highlights :

• The National Environmental Standard Laboratory (NSEL) is Asia’s first and the world’s second pollution monitoring facility, after the United Kingdom (UK), designed to test, calibrate, and certify air pollution monitoring devices.
• NSEL will strengthen domestic capabilities, reduce dependence on foreign certification agencies, and ensure accurate environmental data for programmes like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
• The lab supports regulators, industries, and startups by providing reliable performance testing of systems such as Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System (CAAQMS) and Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS).
• For particulate matter (PM) testing, India’s facility at NSEL is comparable only to Germany, ensuring world-class monitoring capabilities.
• CAAQMS is a fixed, automated station that continuously measures ambient air quality in cities and industrial areas.
• OCEMS is a real-time monitoring system installed at industrial stacks and chimneys to measure pollutants continuously.
• The National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration was developed in collaboration with Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Germany and uses a Laser-based Differential Spectral Responsivity (L-DSR)
• This facility achieves the world’s lowest calibration uncertainty of 0.35% (k=2), reducing dependence on foreign certification, saving foreign exchange, and boosting investor confidence in India’s solar sector.
• Only four other international laboratories are recognized under the World Photovoltaic Scale (WPV) for high-precision solar cell calibration: NREL (USA), PTB (Germany), AIST (Japan), and TIPS (China).
• During the event, 14 Phytochemical Bharatiya Nirdeshak Dravya (BNDs), 2 Gas BNDs, and 1 Silica Fume BND were released to strengthen India’s quality and measurement standards.
• Several MoUs and technology transfer agreements were signed to promote indigenous manufacturing and provide support to startups and MSMEs.

About CSIR-NPL:

• CSIR-NPL, established in 1947 and headquartered in New Delhi, is India’s premier metrology institute, responsible for maintaining national standards of measurements ensuring accuracy, uniformity, and traceability.
• Director : Professor Venu Gopal Achanta

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Inaugurates ‘Param Shakti’ Supercomputing Facility at IIT Madras, Tamil Nadu

• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) inaugurated Param Shakti, a state-of-the-art supercomputing facility, at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• The Param Shakti facility was inaugurated on 3rd January 2026 by Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY.
• Param Shakti is powered by the PARAM RUDRA supercomputing system, offering a peak performance of 3.1 petaflops, capable of performing over 1 quadrillion (3.1 × 10¹⁵) calculations per second.
• The supercomputer is expected to accelerate research in high-impact domains, including Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Climate and Weather Modelling, Drug Discovery and Molecular Dynamics, Advanced Manufacturing, Combustion Studies, Nuclear Sciences, and Computational Fluid Dynamics.
• The hardware and software stack for Param Shakti has been developed and built in India by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under MeitY.
• The facility includes a fully integrated data center with 24×7 power backup and advanced cooling systems, supporting continuous operation.
• Param Shakti enhances India’s supercomputing capabilities, contributing to scientific research, technological development, and high-performance computing (HPC)

Fastest-Spinning Asteroid 2025 MN45 Discovered by Vera C. Rubin Observatory

• Scientists analysing the first images from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory have identified the fastest-spinning asteroid ever observed in its size category, designated 2025 MN45.
• Asteroid 2025 MN45 measures about 2,300 feet (≈710 metres) in diameter, larger than most skyscrapers on Earth.
• Despite its size, the asteroid completes one full rotation in just 113 seconds, making it the fastest-spinning known asteroid larger than 500 metres.
• The extreme rotation challenges assumptions about the structural limits of large asteroids, suggesting it has internal strength comparable to solid rock rather than being a typical “rubble pile”
• The asteroid is located in the main belt between Mars and Jupiter, where fast rotators are rare.
• 2025 MN45 was discovered using preliminary data from the Rubin Observatory’s LSST Camera, the largest digital camera ever built.
• The discovery is part of a survey to improve understanding of the formation and evolution of small solar system bodies.
• The results were published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, marking the first peer-reviewed paper based on Rubin Observatory data.
• Most large asteroids are believed to require a minimum rotation period of about 2.2 hours to remain intact, making 2025 MN45’s 113-second rotation exceptional.
• The Rubin Observatory’s commissioning data have already revealed around 1,900 previously unknown asteroids, including several super-fast and ultra-fast rotators.
• When the observatory begins its 10-year sky survey, astronomers expect a dramatic increase in asteroid discoveries, reshaping knowledge of asteroid dynamics and solar system history.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day – 11th January 2026

• National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2026 is observed on 11th January to highlight and combat the issue of human trafficking.
• January is also designated as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, but this day specifically focuses on raising awareness and stopping illicit trafficking practices.
• Significant milestones in the fight against human trafficking include:
• Trafficking Victims Protection Act (2000, USA) – first federal statute addressing modern slavery.
• Free The Slaves – American nonprofit organization founded by Anti-Slavery International.
• US Senate Resolution (2007) – officially designated 11th January as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day.
• January 2010 – President Obama devoted the entire month to raising awareness and preventing human trafficking.

Death Anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri – 11th January 2026

• The Death Anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri 2026 is observed on 11th January 2026.
• Lal Bahadur Shastri passed away on 11th January 1966 in Tashkent.
• He served as the 2nd Prime Minister of Independent India and was a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress.
• He is remembered for major national initiatives like the White Revolution (milk production boost) and the Green Revolution (agricultural development).
• Birth: 2nd October 1904; Place: Mughalsarai, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
• He joined the Indian Independence Movement in the 1920s and actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement; he was imprisoned by the British for his involvement.
• He participated in the Salt Satyagraha in 1930, leading to imprisonment for more than two years.
• In 1937, he became the Organising Secretary of the Parliamentary Board of Uttar Pradesh.
• During the Quit India Movement 1942, after Mahatma Gandhi’s speech in Mumbai, he was imprisoned again and remained in jail till 1946.
• Overall, Lal Bahadur Shastri spent around nine years in prison, during which he studied extensively and read works of Western philosophers, revolutionaries, and social reformers.

National Youth Day 2026 – 12th January

• National Youth Day 2026 is observed on 12th January to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
• Also called Rashtriya Yuva Diwas 2025 in India.
• Swami Vivekananda is regarded as one of history’s greatest philosophers and spiritual leaders.
• The Government of India declared 12th January as National Youth Day on 12th January 1984.
• The day aims to inspire youth to draw motivation from Swami Vivekananda’s life, values, and achievements.
• Purpose: to revive the enduring vitality of young people and contribute to national progress and economic development.

Daily CA One- Liner: January 11^th & 12^th

• The Central Government rolled out projects worth ₹235 crore in Tamil Nadu to strengthen port infrastructure and enhance digital maritime governance
• India launched the Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) 2026 to strengthen the link between science, technology, and diplomacy.
• The first phase of All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 (AITE-26) began at Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Erode Forest Division, Tamil Nadu.
• The Kamala Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh has been approved by the Public Investment Board
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System
• 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026) has recognized five Indian films as eligible for the Best Picture category
• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) received an ‘Excellent’ rating in the MoU evaluation with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) for FY 2024–25
• Bengaluru has been ranked the best city for women in India (2025), emerging as the top performer in a national study on urban inclusion for women.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has fixed the Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limit for the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) at ₹890 crore.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs) – Prudential Norms on Capital Adequacy (Amendment) Directions, 2026, which are effective immediately.
• Bank of Baroda (BoB) has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to transfer its existing Primary Dealer (PD) authorisation to a wholly owned subsidiary.
• Skydo, a Bengaluru-based payments firm, has received final authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a Payment Aggregator–Cross Border (PA-CB).
• Akasa Air has become a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), a global body representing over 360 airlines accounting for 80% of global air traffic.
• The Indian Army and HDFC Bank have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) till 2029 to continue providing banking services and insurance cover to Army personnel.
• The Department of Justice (DoJ) under the Ministry of Law and Justice (MoL&J) announced the appointment of Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta as the new Chief Justice (CJ) of Uttarakhand High Court (HC).
• SoftBank, through its investment arm SVF II Ostrich (DE) LLC, sold a 2.15% stake in Ola Electric Mobility Limited.
• Union Minister Annapurna Devi, Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), launched the ‘PANKHUDI’ portal in New Delhi, Delhi, an integrated CSR and partnership facilitation digital platform.
• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Science and Technology, inaugurated two apex national facilities at CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) during its 80th Foundation Day.
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) inaugurated Param Shakti, a state-of-the-art supercomputing facility, at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• Scientists analysing the first images from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory have identified the fastest-spinning asteroid ever observed in its size category, designated 2025 MN45.
• National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2026 is observed on 11th January to highlight and combat the issue of human trafficking
• The Death Anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri 2026 is observed on 11th January 2026
• National Youth Day 2026 is observed on 12th January to mark the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda