Daily Top Current Affairs of the day for 17th January 2026
1. PM Modi to Flag Off India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train connecting Howrah and Guwahati. This next-generation train offers modern sleeping berths, enhanced safety features, and faster overnight travel. Moreover, it marks a major upgrade in long-distance rail connectivity in Eastern and North-Eastern India. Consequently, it strengthens passenger comfort, boosts tourism, and supports the government’s vision of modernizing Indian Railways.
2. India Celebrates 10th National Startup Day
On the 10th National Startup Day, Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted that India’s startup ecosystem achieved historic growth over the last decade through innovation and resilience. Meanwhile, PM Modi stated that startups play a key role in building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Additionally, India attracted 51 billion dollars in FDI in six months. The upcoming National Startup Day on 16 January will feature new challenges and awards promoting entrepreneurship.
3. World’s Largest Green Ammonia Project in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh will host the world’s largest green ammonia project at Kakinada. AM Green will invest 10 billion dollars to build a 1.5 MTPA production facility by 2030. Significantly, this project supports India’s first green ammonia exports and aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Therefore, it strengthens India’s leadership in renewable energy, reduces carbon emissions, and advances sustainable industrial growth.
4. Ponduru Khadi Receives GI Tag
Ponduru Khadi, a rare hand-woven cotton fabric from Andhra Pradesh, has received the Geographical Indication tag. This recognition protects the centuries-old craft from imitation while improving global market access for artisans. Furthermore, the GI tag enhances India’s traditional textile identity and supports rural livelihoods. As a result, this milestone strengthens the Khadi sector and promotes indigenous craftsmanship under the “Vocal for Local” initiative.
5. India Post Delivers First ONDC-Based Online Order
India Post achieved a digital milestone by delivering its first online order booked through the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). This step expands India Post’s role beyond traditional mail services into e-commerce logistics. Moreover, it strengthens digital trade infrastructure and improves last-mile connectivity across the country. Consequently, the initiative supports Digital India, enhances consumer convenience, and boosts competition in online commerce.
6. Praveen Vashista Appointed Vigilance Commissioner
President Droupadi Murmu appointed Praveen Vashista as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission. This appointment reinforces institutional oversight in India’s anti-corruption framework. Additionally, the CVC plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in public administration. Therefore, the new appointment further strengthens governance mechanisms and ensures ethical conduct in government institutions.
7. India Becomes World’s Second-Largest 5G Subscriber Nation
India has emerged as the world’s second-largest 5G subscriber base after China. Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced that India crossed 400 million 5G users. This rapid adoption reflects India’s digital transformation and robust telecom infrastructure expansion. Furthermore, widespread 5G availability accelerates smart services, digital innovation, and economic productivity, positioning India as a global leader in next-generation connectivity.
8. Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima for CGHS Beneficiaries
The Finance Ministry launched Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima, a ₹10–20 lakh optional health insurance scheme for CGHS beneficiaries. Offered through New India Assurance, it provides hospitalization cover, discounted premiums, and flexible co-payment options. Therefore, the scheme enhances healthcare security for government employees and pensioners while strengthening India’s social welfare framework and financial risk protection in medical emergencies.
9. United States Warns Iran Over Protest Crackdown
The United States warned Iran that it is considering all possible measures to stop the violent crackdown on protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US representative Mike Waltz stated that President Trump kept all options open. This development highlights rising geopolitical tensions and international concern over human rights violations, potentially influencing future diplomatic and economic actions against Iran.
10. Israel Withdraws from Seven UN Agencies
Israel announced its withdrawal from seven United Nations agencies, citing political bias and inefficiency. This decision follows a broader review after the US exit from multiple global bodies. Consequently, Israel is shifting toward selective multilateral engagement amid growing tensions with UN institutions. The move reflects changing global diplomatic alignments and could impact international cooperation in humanitarian and development programs.
⚡ Quick Memory Hooks
• Vande Bharat Sleeper → Howrah–Guwahati
• National Startup Day → 10 years → $51B FDI
• Green Ammonia → Kakinada → $10B investment
• Ponduru Khadi → GI Tag → Andhra Pradesh
• India Post + ONDC → Digital delivery milestone
• CVC Appointment → Praveen Vashista
• India 5G Users → 400 Million → 2nd globally
• Ayush Mediclaim → CGHS → ₹10–20 lakh
• US–Iran Tension → UNSC warning
• Israel–UN Withdrawal → 7 agencies