Daily Top Current Affairs of the day for 21st January 2026
1. Vice President launches book on Ram Janmabhoomi
Vice President Dr. C. P. Radhakrishnan launched the book “Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi – Challenge and Response” in New Delhi. Former Government of India Secretary Surendra Kumar Pachauri authored the book. The event highlighted scholarly documentation of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and its national significance.
2. Centre notifies Central Motor Vehicles (Second Amendment) Rules, 2026
The Union Government notified the Central Motor Vehicles (Second Amendment) Rules, 2026 to strengthen toll fee compliance on National Highways. Moreover, the rules aim to improve Electronic Toll Collection efficiency and discourage fee evasion. Consequently, the move enhances transparency, revenue collection, and smoother highway operations.
3. India announces first Tailings Policy
The Union Government introduced India’s first Tailings Policy to recover critical minerals from mining waste, including tailings and overburden. Furthermore, the policy seeks to reduce import dependence, strengthen domestic mineral supply chains, and support clean energy goals. Thus, it advances resource efficiency and self-reliance in mining.
4. India launches first open-sea marine fish farming project
India initiated its first open-sea marine fish farming project in the Andaman Sea. The pilot project promotes finfish and seaweed cultivation using open-ocean technology. Additionally, it aims to boost coastal livelihoods, advance marine research, and strengthen India’s Blue Economy development strategy.
5. Industry invited for Bharatiya Antariksh Station construction
ISRO, through Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, invited domestic industries to contribute to the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). It issued an Expression of Interest for fabricating BAS-01 structures. Therefore, the initiative strengthens public-private collaboration and accelerates India’s long-term human spaceflight ambitions.
6. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary declared Eco-Sensitive Zone
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary in the Aravalli Range as an Eco-Sensitive Zone. Consequently, the decision enhances biodiversity protection, regulates developmental activities, and safeguards fragile ecosystems surrounding the sanctuary.
7. Nitin Nabin set to become BJP national president
Senior BJP leader Nitin Nabin from Bihar is set to take over as the party’s new national president. Born in May 1980, he becomes the first BJP chief younger than the party itself. Hence, his appointment signals generational leadership transition within the organisation.
8. Praveen Vashista appointed Vigilance Commissioner
The President of India appointed Shri Praveen Vashista as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission. He is a 1991-batch IPS officer from the Bihar cadre. Therefore, his appointment strengthens institutional oversight and anti-corruption mechanisms in governance.
9. India-EU Free Trade Agreement nearing conclusion
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that India and the European Union are close to signing the Free Trade Agreement. She described it as the “mother of all agreements.” Consequently, the deal is expected to boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation significantly.
10. Brazil and Nigeria emerge as key pharma export destinations
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported strong growth in Indian pharmaceutical exports. Nigeria contributed $179 million growth, while Brazil added nearly $100 million in imports from India. Thus, these markets are becoming major destinations amid global economic uncertainties.
11. Uganda President Museveni wins seventh term
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni won a seventh term with 71.65% votes in the 2026 elections. Meanwhile, opposition leader Bobi Wine rejected the results alleging fraud and called for peaceful protests. Therefore, the election outcome has sparked political debate in Uganda.
12. Trump discusses Greenland with NATO chief
US President Donald Trump held a telephonic conversation with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte regarding Greenland. He reiterated that Greenland is vital for American and global security. Additionally, he announced plans to meet global leaders at Davos, highlighting strategic geopolitical interests.
13. Khelo India Winter Games 2026 begins in Leh
The Sixth Edition of Khelo India Winter Games 2026 commenced at NDS Stadium, Leh. Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta inaugurated the event. Moreover, 21 States and Union Territories are participating in ice hockey and skating events with over 1,000 athletes.
14. Vidarbha wins first Vijay Hazare Trophy
Vidarbha clinched their maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy title by defeating Saurashtra by 38 runs in the final at Bengaluru. Consequently, the victory marks a historic achievement for Vidarbha in India’s domestic cricket circuit.
15. Raymond Lifestyle appoints new CEO
Raymond Lifestyle appointed Satyaki Ghosh as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 19 January 2026. Therefore, the leadership change aims to strengthen business strategy and accelerate the company’s growth in India’s lifestyle and apparel market.
——-*——-