Daily Top Current Affairs of the day for 19th January 2026
1. World Book Fair Concludes in New Delhi
The 53rd edition of the World Book Fair concluded in New Delhi, organized by the National Book Trust. The nine-day fair witnessed participation from over 1,000 publishers representing more than 35 countries. Moreover, the event promoted reading culture, publishing innovation, and global literary exchange. Consequently, it strengthened India’s position as a major hub for international publishing and intellectual dialogue.
2. Tragic Road Accident on Solapur–Pune Highway
In Maharashtra, five people lost their lives and one woman was injured in a tragic road accident on the Solapur–Pune National Highway near Mohol. The incident occurred late Saturday night when a speeding car lost control and rammed into a roadside tree. This accident highlights growing concerns over road safety, speeding violations, and the urgent need for stricter traffic enforcement.
3. DOSTI Maritime Exercise Begins in Maldives
The 17th edition of the DOSTI exercise, a trilateral maritime drill involving the Indian Coast Guard, Sri Lankan Coast Guard, and Maldives National Defence Force, commenced in Male. The exercise began with its harbour phase on 17 January 2026. Furthermore, DOSTI strengthens regional maritime cooperation, enhances search-and-rescue preparedness, and reinforces India’s strategic role in Indian Ocean security.
4. LCA Tejas Absent from Republic Day Flypast
India’s 2026 Republic Day Parade will showcase a wide range of military assets. However, the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas will be absent from the flypast. This development has drawn attention because Tejas represents India’s self-reliance in defence aviation. Consequently, analysts view this absence as notable amid India’s broader push for defence indigenisation.
5. India Clarifies Non-Participation in BRICS Naval Exercise
The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that India is not participating in the BRICS Naval Exercise ‘Will for Peace 2026’. Official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the exercise is neither a regular nor institutionalised BRICS activity. Therefore, the clarification avoids diplomatic misinterpretation and highlights India’s independent approach to multilateral defence engagements.
6. UAE President Arrives on Official Visit to India
United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in India on an official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This marks his third visit as UAE President and fifth visit to India in the past decade. Moreover, the visit strengthens India–UAE strategic partnership in trade, energy, defence cooperation, and diaspora relations.
7. NASA Prepares Artemis II Lunar Mission
NASA moved its Space Launch System rocket to the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center in preparation for the Artemis II mission. This will be the first crewed lunar fly-around mission in over 50 years. Four astronauts will undertake a 10-day journey around the Moon and back. Consequently, the mission marks a major milestone in renewed human lunar exploration.
8. Trump Calls for Leadership Change in Iran
US President Donald Trump called for an end to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s 37-year rule. Speaking to an American news outlet, Trump stated it is time for new leadership in Iran following weeks of protests. This statement signals rising geopolitical tensions and may influence future diplomatic and economic actions against Iran.
9. New Zealand Wins ODI Series Against India
New Zealand defeated India by 41 runs in the third and final ODI of the 2026 bilateral series. Daryl Mitchell was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series. Notably, New Zealand has toured India for ODIs since 1989 but had never previously won a bilateral series in India, making this victory historic.
10. Sports and Strategic Events Shape January Headlines
From New Zealand’s historic cricket series win to major defence, space, and diplomatic developments, January 2026 continues to reflect India’s dynamic engagement in global affairs. Cultural initiatives, security cooperation, scientific missions, and international partnerships collectively highlight India’s growing influence across sports, technology, diplomacy, and regional leadership.
⚡ Quick Exam Memory Points
• World Book Fair → 53rd edition → National Book Trust
• Solapur–Pune Accident → 5 killed → Road safety concern
• DOSTI Exercise → India–Sri Lanka–Maldives
• LCA Tejas → Absent from Republic Day flypast
• BRICS Naval Exercise → India not participating
• UAE President Visit → Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed
• NASA Artemis II → Crewed Moon fly-around
• Trump on Iran → Calls for new leadership
• NZ vs India ODI → NZ won series → Daryl Mitchell
• January 2026 → Diplomacy + Defence + Space + Sports