Welcome to today’s TNPSC Daily Current Affairs for January 22, 2026.
This comprehensive compilation covers all important events across national politics,
international relations, science & technology, economy, sports, and more.
Sourced from The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, and other reputed media.
Perfect for TNPSC Group 1, Group 2, Group 2A, and Group 4 exam preparation.

📌 Read in Tamil: தமிழில் படிக்க இங்கே கிளிக் செய்யவும்

🏛️ National Politics & Government

1. Overview of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Visit to India on January 19, 2026

• What happened: Overview of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Visit to India on January 19, 2026On January 19, 2026, the President of United Arab Emirates(UAE)Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyanundertook a one-day visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi. Highlights of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Visit to India:Bilateral Meeting:PM Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed held bilateral meetings, with a focus on trade expansion, and reviewed and strengthened the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).Key Outcomes:During UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit, India and the UAE announced several initiatives in trade, technology, energy, digital cooperation, culture, and people-to-people ties to strengthen long-term bilateral relations and economic integration.
• Key details: Key Agreements Signed: >>Read Full News.
• Key points: The visit marks his third visit as UAE President and fifth visit overall to India.; India and the UAE agreed to expand their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aiming to double bilateral trade to over USD 200 billion by 2032.; They also announced a collaboration between Centre for Development of Advanced Computing(C-DAC)and G-42 to establish a supercomputing cluster, agreed to partner in advanced nuclear technologies including large reactors and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and planned to promote trade and investment with the First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and DP World operating from GIFT City, Gujarat.; A Letter of Intent (LoI) was signed for the development of Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR) in Gujarat.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

2. BNHS and NMCG Launches Project to Protect Indian Skimmer in the Ganga Basin

• What happened: BNHS and NMCG Launches Project to Protect Indian Skimmer in the Ganga BasinIn January 2026, the Bombay Natural History Society(BNHS)and the National Mission for Clean Ganga(NMCG)have jointly launched a newconservation project‘Safeguarding breeding habitats of Indian Skimmer and sympatric birds through monitoring and community participation in the Ganga Basin’ to protect the Endangered (EN)Indian Skimmer(Scientific name: Rynchops albicollis). Exam Hints:What?Launch of conservation project for Indian Skimmer in the Ganga BasinLaunched by:BNHS under NMCGInaugurated by:Union Minister C.R.
• Key details: Patil, MoJSObjective:To protect river sandbars (nesting site for Indian Skimmer)Scientific Name:Rynchops albicollisIUCN Status :Endangered (EN) Key Details of Project:Key Objective:The project will be implemented by BNHS with the main objective ofprotectingriver sandbarswhich are crucial nesting sites for the Indian Skimmer and many other river birds.Expansion:The project is built on the success of BNHS’s conservation model in theNational Chambal Sanctuary,where local community support helped improve bird nesting success.
• Key points: The project was formally inaugurated byUnion Minister C.R. Patil,Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) atDehradun(Uttarakhand); Now, this same approach will be extended to key river stretches of Ganga Basin such as: the Chambal River, the Upper Ganga near Bijnor and Narora, the Ganga-Yamuna confluence at Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh, UP), and the Lower Ganga near the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary in Bihar.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

3. Support from Local Communities:

• What happened: Support from Local Communities:Under this project, local people will be trained as ‘Nest Guardians’ and ‘River Guardians’ to protect nesting sites of Indian Skimmer, monitor birds and assist in data collection.Other Species Covered:Apart from Indian Skimmer, the project will conserve the other declining riverine species like: the Black-bellied Tern, River Tern, River Lapwing, Great Thick-knee, Little Tern and Little Pratincole.AboutIndian Skimmer:Overview:The Indian Skimmer (Rynchops albicollis) is a distinctive river bird famous for its surface‑skimming feeding style.IUCN Status:Classified as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature(IUCN) Red List, it relies on sandbars in large, slow-flowing rivers for nesting and breeding.
• Key points: India is home to almost 90% of the world’s population of this species, making its conservation crucial.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

4. Union Minister Manohar Lal Inaugurates

• What happened: Union Minister Manohar Lal InauguratesCoEfor Regulatory Affairs at IIT DelhiOn 20th January 2026, Union MinisterManohar Lal, Ministry of Power (MoP) and Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), inaugurated the Centre of Excellence(CoE)forRegulatory Affairsin thePower Sectorat the Indian Institute of Technolog (IIT)Delhi, in New Delhi(Delhi) to strengthen India’s regulatory capacity amid rapid changes in the electricity sector. Exam Hints:What?Launch of CoE for Regulatory Affairs in Power SectorBy Whom?Union Minister Manohar Lal, MoPWhere?IIT Delhi, New DelhiCollaborators:IIT Delhi, CERC, Grid IndiaObjective:Strengthen India’s regulatory capabilities, support evidence-based decision-makingFocus Areas:Regulatory research, capacity building, advisory support, knowledge dissemination About Centre of Excellence (CoE):Purpose:The CoE will function as a national hub for regulatory research, capacity building, advisory support, and knowledge dissemination,Framework:Integrating policy, regulation, system operations, and academic research within a single institutional framework.Policy Support:Evidence-based tools provides policymakers with analytical models to evaluate regulatory proposals on consumer welfare, system reliability, and investment signals.Focus:The CoE will undertake multidisciplinary research on power sector regulation, market design, grid operations, energy transition challenges, decarbonisation pathways, digitalisation, and emerging technologies.Capacity Building:Provides evidence-based analytical support to regulators and system operators and builds long-term regulatory capacity through structured training programmes.
• Key details: MoEFCCdeclaredKumbhalgarhWLSas Eco-Sensitive ZoneIn January 2026, the Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change(MoEFCC)announced through itsofficial notification declared an area rangingfrom zero to onekilometre(km)around theKumbhalgarhWildlife Sanctuary (WLS)which islocated in the Aravalli Mountain Range, Rajasthan, as an Eco-Sensitive Zone(ESZ). Exam Hints:What?Declaration of Kumbhalgarh WLS as ESZAnnounced by?Bhupender YadavMinistry:Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)Location of WLS:Aravalli Mountain Range (Rajasthan)Area declared as ESZ:Zero to One km around the WLS boundary Key Provisions:Key Restrictions:As per MoEFCC directions, activities like: mining, large industrial units, brick kilns and the construction of new hotels and resorts will be restricted in94 villagesspread across nearly 243 kms adjoining the sanctuary boundary.Significance of WLS:As per MoEFCC official notification, the Kumbhalgarh WLS spans across theRajsamand,PaliandUdaipur districts(of Rajasthan), is considered as one of the most fragile ecosystems of the Aravalli range. Biodiversity:It is natural habitat for a wide range of wildlife species, including leopard, striped hyena, jungle cat, Indian pangolin, blue bill and chinkara; as well as several bird species such as: the painted francolin.
• Key points: The CoE has been jointly established by IIT Delhi, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), and Grid Controller of India Limited (Grid India).; This declaration will help in the conservation of rich biodiversity as well as support indigenous communities living in and around the WLS.; It is significantly important as a catchment area for the Banas and Luni river systems.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

5. Bharat Forge Secured Rs 300

• What happened: Bharat Forge Secured Rs 300CroreContracts under EP-VI Norms for IA, INIn January 2026, Bharat Forge Limited(BFL)’saerospace divisionsecured contracts worth nearlyRs 300croreunder the current Emergency Procurement-VI (EP-VI) frameworkfor the supply of indigenously built Unmanned systems to the Indian Army (IA) and Indian Navy (IN). Exam Hints:What?Securing Contracts worth Rs 300 crore under EP-VIBy Whom?Aerospace division of BFLPurpose:Supply of indigenous unmanned systems (ISR and loitering munitions)Supply To:IA and INISR Platforms:Omega One, Omega Nine ISR dronesLoitering Munitions:Bayonet and Cleaver Key Details:Key Platforms:The contracts cover a range of indigenous unmanned systems: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, includingOmega One, Omega Nine ISR drones;and loitering munitions namedBayonet and Cleaver.
• Key points: Under the EP-VI framework, the total value ofeach contractis capped atRs 300crore,with equipment to be delivered within one year of signing.; These systems are developed to meet the urgent operational requirements of India across diverse terrains, and mission profiles.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

6. Significance of Platforms:

• What happened: Significance of Platforms:As per BFL,Omega Onewas displayed during the Army Day (on January 15, 2026) in Jaipur, Rajasthan, mounted on an upgradedBMP-2infantry combat vehicle, providing short to medium-range battlefield surveillance.
• Key points: Omega Nineis a high-endurance variant, designed specifically for longer missions to detect enemy presence, identify targets and enhance situational awareness.; Loitering Munitions such as Bayonet and Cleaver are described as‘kamikaze drones’,hovering over a target, identifying assets and striking with precision.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

🌍 International Affairs

7. ILO’s Employment and Social Trends 2026 Projects Global Unemployment Rate

• What happened: ILO’s Employment and Social Trends 2026 Projects Global Unemployment RateUnchangedat 4.9% in 2026In January 2026, the International Labour Organisation(ILO)released its latest report titled‘Employment and Social Trends 2026: World of Work Series’in Geneva, Switzerland. As per the report, the global unemployment rate is projected to remain unchanged at4.9% in 2026which is equivalent to 186 million people/workers worldwide still lacking access to quality jobs and also, this global unemployment rate will continue to be the same till 2027.
• Key details: Key Findings:Extreme Poverty:As per the report, the share of workers living in extreme poverty declined by 3.1 percentage points to7.9%between 2015 and 2025.
• Key points: The report has further highlighted the wider global jobs gap (i.e. capturing people who want paid work but cannot access it) is expected to reach408 million in 2026.; Nearly 300 million workers continue to live in extreme working poverty, earning less than USD 3 per day.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: International Relations (GS Paper 2). Bilateral and multilateral agreements.

8. Global Informality Rate:

• What happened: Global Informality Rate:Between 2015 and 2025, the global rate of informality increased by 0.3 percentage points, after having declined in the previous decade (2005-2015). Global LFPR:The report has projected that the global Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)will decline bynearly 0.2 percentage pointseach year, reaching 60.5% in 2027.Demographic Shifts:The Global employment growth rate is estimated at1.0% in 2026,which is slightly below the average of the previous decade.
• Key details: >>Read Full News NumbeoSafety Index 2026:MangaluruRanked Safest City in India;Qingdao Tops GloballyIn January 2026, according toNumbeoSafety Index 2026rankings by Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database,Mangaluru(Karnataka) emerged as the safest city in India, securing the46thrank globally with a safety score of74.4.
• Key points: Globally,2.1 billion workersare projected to be informally employed in 2026.; It also projected job growth will be 0.5% in upper middle-income countries compared to 1.8% in lower middle-income countries, and 3.1% in low-income countries.; Qingdao(Shandong, China) topped the global list with an exceptional safety score of89.2, followed by Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates, UAE) in second place with 88.9, and Doha (Qatar) in third place with 84.5.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: International Relations (GS Paper 2). Bilateral and multilateral agreements.

9. Performance of the Cities:

• What happened: Performance of the Cities:Other Top 10 Cities Globally:Sharjah(United Arab Emirates (UAE) ranked 4th globally with a score of 84.5, followed by Dubai in 5th place with 83.9.
• Key points: Taipei (Taiwan) ranked 6th with a score of 83.5, followed by Manama (Bahrain) at 7th (82.0). Muscat (Oman) secured the 8th position with 81.3, while the Netherlands featured prominently with The Hague (9th, 80.0) and Eindhoven (10th, 79.1) completing the global top ten.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: International Relations (GS Paper 2). Bilateral and multilateral agreements.

10. Top 3 Safest Cities in India:

• What happened: Top 3 Safest Cities in India:According to global safety rankings, Mangaluru(Karnataka) is the safest city in India, ranking 46th globally with a safety score of 74.4. It is followed by Ahmedabad (Gujarat) at 87th globally (68.5) and Jaipur (Rajasthan) at 106th (65.3).Most Unsafe City Globally:Pretoria (South Africa) was ranked at the bottom (304th) with a score of 18.2, preceded by Caracas (Venezuela) at 303rd (18.6) and Johannesburg(South Africa) at 302nd(19.2).Top Safest and Least Safe Countries:Top 10 Safest Countries Globally:TheUAEtops the list with a safety index of 86.0, followed by Qatar and Andorra at 84.8 each.
• Key details: Taiwan ranks 4th (83.0), Macao (China) 5th (81.8), Oman 6th (81.6), Isle of Man 7th (79.1), Hong Kong (China) 8th (78.6), Armenia 9th (77.9), and Bahrain 10th (77.7).Least Safe Countries:According to Numbeo’s 2026 safety index, Papua New Guinea had a safety score of 19.1, Venezuela scored 19.6, and Haiti scored 19.9, placing all three among the least safe countries globally.>>Read Full News Indian-OriginNASA Astronaut Sunita WilliamsRetires After 27 Years of ServiceOn January 21, 2026, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration(NASA)announced that Indian-origin astronautSunita Lyn Williamsretiredfrom service effective December 27, 2025, marking the end of a 27-year illustrious career in human space exploration. About Sunita Williams:Profile:She was born on September 19, 1965, in Ohio, the United States of America (USA). She is a former Navy officer of the USA, who became one of NASA’s most experienced and accomplished space explorers.Space Career:In 1998, She was selected by NASA as an astronaut candidate.
• Key points: In2008,she was conferred with thePadma Bhushan,the third highest civilian award, in the field of Science and Engineering.; She is jointly ranked sixth for the longest single spaceflight by an American, alongside NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, with both spending286 daysin space during the Boeing Starliner and SpaceX Crew-9 missions.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: International Relations (GS Paper 2). Bilateral and multilateral agreements.

💰 Economy & Banking

11. Moody’s Projects India’s FY26 GDP Growth at 7.3%, Supporting Rise in Household Incomes

• What happened: Moody’s Projects India’s FY26 GDP Growth at 7.3%, Supporting Rise in Household IncomesIn January 2026, Global credit rating agency,Moody’s Ratingsprojected that India will record a robust Gross Domestic Product(GDP)growth rate of7.3%in Financial Year 2025-26(FY26),higher than6.5%growth rate registered inFY25. Exam Hints:What?Moody’s Ratings Projected India’s GDP for FY26FY26 :7.3%, up from 6.5% in FY25Impact:To support average household incomes; support demand for insuranceGDP per capita:USD 11,176 in FY25, 8.2% YoY growthInsurance Sector Performance (Apr–Nov FY26):Total premiums: Rs 10.9 lakh croreHealth premiums: +14%Life new business premiums: +20% Key Findings:Income Growth: India’s GDP per capita rose8.2%year-on-year (Y-o-Y) to reach USD 11,176 in FY25.India’s Insurance sector:Moody’s in its report on India’s insurance sector highlighted that the sector is expected to benefit from sustained premium growth which is supported by strong economic expansion, increased digitisation, tax reforms,and a planned reform of the dominant state-owned insurance sector.Insurance Sector Growth:India’s strong economic expansion drove a 17% rise in total insurance premium revenue, reaching Rs 10.9 lakh crore during April–November 2025‑26.
• Key points: It further highlighted that the robust economic expansion of the country is expected to support average household incomes and boost demand for insurance protection.; Health insurance premiums grew by 14%, while life new business premiums surged 20%.; This represents an acceleration compared to FY25, when total premiums had grown 7%, reachingRs 11.9 lakh crore.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

12. Reforms in Insurance Sector:

• What happened: Reforms in Insurance Sector:The firm highlighted certain measures taken by the Government of India (GoI) such as: selling a minority stake in Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) and re-capitalizing some state-owned companies to improve their performance. These measures aim to enhance the profitability of state-owned insurers About Moody’s Ratings:President-Michael WestHeadquarters-New York, the United States of America (USA)Founded-1909.
• Key points: In addition to these measures, the GoI has increased the limit on foreign investment in Indian insurance companies from74% to100%, and is expected to provide additional financial flexibility.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

13. AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

• What happened: AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

14. American Biologist Toby Kiers Won

• What happened: American Biologist Toby Kiers Won2026Tyler Prize for Shedding Light on Hidden Fungal NetworkIn January 2026, renowned American biologistDr. Toby Kierswas named the winner of2026 Tyler Prizefor Environmental Achievement, also known as‘Nobel for the Environment’,in recognition of her groundbreaking research revealing the important role ofmycorrhizal fungal networksin carbon cycling and nutrient exchange.
• Key details: Exam Hints:What?Tyler Prize 2026 AnnouncedWho?American Biologist Dr.Toby KiersReceived Award for:Shedding Light on Hidden Fungal NetworkCash Prize:USD 250,000 About Tyler Prize:Background:It is one of the 1st international premier environmental awards established in1973by the late John and Alice Tyler. Administered by:The award is administered by The University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, the United States of America (USA).Monetary Prize:The recipient of the award (i.e. any individual or organisation from any part of the world) receives a cash prize ofUSD 250,000.Total Recipients:Since 1974, the Tyler Prize has honored88 laureatesfrom 18 countries .Previous Winner:In 2025, Brazilian Eduardo Bronizio and Argentinian Sandra Diaz were honoured with Tyler Prize.
• Key points: She will officially receive the award at a ceremony scheduled for 23 April 2026 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.; The award recognises ‘exceptional’ scientific work in environmental science, health and energy that benefits humanity.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

15. Brand Finance Global 500 2026 Report: India’s

• What happened: Brand Finance Global 500 2026 Report: India’sInfosys Ranks Third;Accenture Topped;On January 20, 2026,Brand Financereleased a report titled“Brand Finance Global 500 2026”.As per the report ,Infosysranked the world’s third most valuable Information Technology (IT) Services Brand, valued atUSD 16.4 billion, with a Brand Strength Index(BSI)score of86.8out of 100, achieving a 15% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the last six years. Exam Hints:What?Brand Finance released Global 500 2026 Report for IT services brandFirst:Accenture (USD 42.2 billion)Second:TCS (USD 21.2 billion)Third:Infosys (USD 16.4 billion)Top 25 Brand Value:167.2 billion Key Highlights of the Report:Other Top 3 IT services Brands:Accentureremains the world’s first IT services brand, valued at USD 42.2 billion with a BSI score of 90.7.
• Key details: Tata Consultancy Services(TCS),valued at USD 21.2 billion (84.6) secured the second place for the fifth consecutive year and achieves AAA rating for the first time, indicating extremely strong brand.Top 25 Brand Value:The combined brand value of the world’s top 25 IT services brands stood at USD 167.2 billion in 2026.Other Indian IT Companies in the List:Indian IT Companies such as HCLTech, Wipro, Tech Mahindra, LTIMindtree, Persistent Systems, and Hexaware have secured place among the top 25.
• Key points: Accenture’s top spot in the IT services category reflects its continued investments in technology, consulting and digital services.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

16. ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

• What happened: ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

17. CCI Approvals on January 20, 2026

• What happened: CCI Approvals on January 20, 2026On January 20, 2026, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), approved two major acquisition proposals in the banking and steel sectors. About Competition Commission of India (CCI):Chairperson– Ravneet KaurHeadquarters –New Delhi, DelhiEstablished –2003>>Read Full News.
• Key points: Acquisition of up to 74% (minimum 51%) shareholding inRBL BankLimited byEmirates NBD Bank(P.J.S.C.); Acquisition of 50.01% equity share capital ofThriveniPellets Private Limitedby Tata Steel Limited (TSL); CCIalso approved the proposed combination involving Bhushan Power and Steel Limited(BPSL), JSW Sambalpur Steel Limited(JSW Sambalpur), JFE Steel Corporation(JFE)and JSW Kalinga Steel Limited(JSW Kalinga).; The deal involves a major restructuring to establish a 50:50 Joint Venture (JV) between JFE and JSW Steel Limited.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

🏏 Sports

18. Padma AwardeeSainaNehwalAnnounced Retirement from Competitive BadmintonIn January 2026, Indian Olympic medallist, Pad…

• What happened: Padma AwardeeSainaNehwalAnnounced Retirement from Competitive BadmintonIn January 2026, Indian Olympic medallist, Padma Awardee and former world No. 1 Badminton playerSainaNehwalannounced herretirementfrom competitivebadminton, concluding a 21-year career.
• Key details: Exam Hints:What?Retirement from competitive badmintonBy Whom?Saina Nehwal, Olympic bronze medallist, former world No.1Last Competitive Match:Singapore Open 2023Awards:Padma Bhushan (2016), Padma Shri (2010), Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (2009–10), Arjuna Award (2009) Achievements:Olympics:She clinched the bronze medal in women’s singles at the 2012 London Olympics in London, United Kingdom(UK), becoming the first Indian badminton player to win an Olympic medal.World Ranking:Became the first Indian woman to achieve World No. 1 ranking in singles in 2015.BWFSuperseries:Won her first Badminton World Federation (BWF) Superseries title at the Indonesia Open in 2009 (Jakarta, Indonesia), the first for an Indian, and accumulated 10 Superseries titles including Singapore, Hong Kong, Denmark, Australia, China, and India Opens.Junior Titles:Won the World Junior Badminton Championships in 2008 and the Commonwealth Youth Games girls’ singles gold in 2008 in Pune, Maharashtra.Commonwealth Games:Secured gold in women’s singles at the 2010 New Delhi (Delhi) and 2018 Gold Coast editions in Australia.BWF GP Titles:Claimed 10 BWF Grand Prix (GP)titles including Philippines, Chinese Taipei, India, Swiss, Thailand, Syed Modi, and Malaysia Masters.Awards:Padma Bhushan (2016): Awarded on March 28, 2016, by President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan for her 2015 World No. 1 ranking, China Open Superseries Premier winPadma Shri (2010):Conferred on April 2010 (age 20) as first badminton player with this honor, recognizing 2009 Indonesia Open gold (first Indian Super Series win) and Commonwealth Games success.Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (2009):India’s highest sporting honor, awarded 2009 as Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (age 19) for historic rise from world rank 100+ to top 10, Indonesia Open victory.
• Key points: She was honored withPadma Shriin2010and Padma Bhushan in 2016 for her contribution in the field of Sports.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Sports Current Affairs. Awards and achievements of sportspersons.

19. Vidarbha Clinches its Maiden

• What happened: Vidarbha Clinches its MaidenVijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 ChampionsIn January 2026, theVidarbha cricket teamwon its maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy(2025–26 season) title after defeating Saurashtra by 38 runs in the final held at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Exam Hints:What?Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 ChampionsWon by:Vidarbha cricket teamWhere?BCCI CoE in Bengaluru (Karnataka)Opponent:Saurashtra (by 38 runs) Key Performances:Match Score: Vidarbha scored 317 runs for 8 wickets in 50 overs and then bowled out Saurashtra for 279 runs in 48.5 overs to secure the win.Key Performances:Atharva Taidescored 128 runs off 118 balls and received the Player of the Match award.
• Key details: Yash Thakur secured 4 wickets for 50 runs. About Vijay Hazare Trophy:It is India’s premier domestic 50-over One-Day cricket tournament, named after legendary Indian cricketer Vijay Hazare. The tournament, started in 2002-03, features state and regional teams competing in List A matches.
• Key points: AmanMokhadeof Vidarbha received the Player of the Tournament award, scoring 814 runs in the series.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Sports Current Affairs. Awards and achievements of sportspersons.

🌿 Environment & Geography

20. Two New Rare Ant Fly Species Discovered in Delhi and Western Ghats

• What happened: Two New Rare Ant Fly Species Discovered in Delhi and Western GhatsIn January 2026, researchers from Kerala and Tamil Nadu (TN) reported the discovery of two new rare ant fly species,‘Metadon ghorpadei’and ‘Metadon reemeri’,found in Delhi’s Northern Ridge forest and the Siruvani Hills of the Western Ghats, respectively. This is the first discovery in over 100 years and shows the importance of protecting urban forest areas.
• Key details: Exam Hints:What?Two new ant fly species discovered in IndiaSpecies Name:Metadon ghorpadei & Metadon reemeriWhere?Delhi (Northern Ridge forest) & TN (Siruvani hills, Western Ghats)Research PublishedIn:International journalZootaxa.Sub Family:Microdontinae (Syrphidae)Special Feature:Myrmecophily – larvae live inside ant nests About the Discovery of Two New Ant Fly Species:Classification:Both species belong toMicrodontinae,a subfamily of Syrphidae (hoverflies).Behavior:Larvae are myrmecophilous, living in ant nests and feeding on ant brood; adults are rare and hard to detect.Species:India now has eight Metadon species, up from six; globally, 454 Microdontinae species exist, 27 in India.Habitat:Metadon ghorpadei – Delhi Ridge, a disturbed urban forest; Metadon reemeri – Siruvani hills, Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot.Significance:The discovery reveals hidden biodiversity and calls for surveys, habitat protection, invasive species control, and studies on species divergence.
• Key points: Findings were published in international journalZootaxaafter morphological and Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) analysis.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Environment & Ecology (GS Paper 3). Conservation and geography.

📘 General Knowledge & Miscellaneous

21. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan Releases Book ‘Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi- Challenge and Response

• What happened: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan Releases Book ‘Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi- Challenge and Response’On 20 January 2026, Vice President(VP) C.P.
• Key details: Radhakrishnanreleased a book titled‘Chalice of Ambrosia : Ram Janmabhoomi- Challenge and Response’,authored by Dr. Surendra Kumar Pachauri, former Secretary to the Government of India (GoI), at the VP’s Enclave in New Delhi, Delhi. Exam Hints:What?Vice President C.P.
• Key points: The book was published byHar-Anand Publications.; It blends historical context with legal developments, cultural context and contemporary politics to provide a comprehensive narrative in modern Indian history.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

22. Current Affairs Today (AffairsCloud Today)

• What happened: Current Affairs Today (AffairsCloud Today).
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

23. Current Affairs 22 January 2026

• What happened: Current Affairs 22 January 2026Overview of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Visit to India on January 19, 2026BNHS and NMCG Launches Project to Protect Indian Skimmer in the Ganga BasinUnion Minister Manohar Lal Inaugurates CoE for Regulatory Affairs at IIT DelhiMoEFCC declared Kumbhalgarh WLS as Eco-Sensitive ZoneBharat Forge Secured Rs 300 Crore Contracts under EP-VI Norms for IA, INILO’s Employment and Social Trends 2026 Projects Global Unemployment Rate Unchanged at 4.9% in 2026Numbeo Safety Index 2026: Mangaluru Ranked Safest City in India; Qingdao Tops GloballyIndian-Origin NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Retires After 27 Years of ServiceMoody’s Projects India’s FY26 GDP Growth at 7.3%, Supporting Rise in Household IncomesAmerican Biologist Toby Kiers Won 2026 Tyler Prize for Shedding Light on Hidden Fungal NetworkBrand Finance Global 500 2026 Report: India’s Infosys Ranks Third; Accenture Topped;CCI Approvals on January 20, 2026Two New Rare Ant Fly Species Discovered in Delhi and Western GhatsPadma Awardee Saina Nehwal Announced Retirement from Competitive BadmintonVidarbha Clinches its Maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 ChampionsVice President C.P. Radhakrishnan Releases Book ‘Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi- Challenge and Response’Aspirant:Does Affairscloud covers all the Current affairs topics related to examinations?Affairscloud:We Guaranteed All the Important topics related to examination are covered in Our Daily CA content and Daily CA Quizzes.Aspirant:Why is there a delayal in news?Affairscloud:As some of the major news sites doesn’t provide the required data on the exact day, we take extra time for important data to be presented to the aspirants on the examination basis to ensure nothing is missed.Example:In ‘Important Days’ topics the International Organisations publish their reports and Rankings in the evenings, to make sure every data is covered, we delay the topics to the next day.Candidates appearing for Competitive Exams.
• Key details: Kindly Share the General Awareness questions,which asked in their respective exams to“[email protected]”Dear Aspirants,We would like to inform you that, startingJanuary 2025,all Current Affairs Hindi Contentwill be accessible only through theCareersCloud app and CareersCloud.in website. Make sure to download the app or visit the website to continue accessing the content seamlessly.Thank you for your understanding and continued support! AffairsCloud Recommends Oliveboard Mock TestIBPS RRB Officer – Free Mock TestIBPS RRB Assistant – Free Mock TestSBI Clerk – Free Mock TestSBI PO – Free Mock TestIBPS Clerk – Free Mock TestRBI Grade B – Free Mock Test AffairsCloud Ebook – Support Us to GrowDownload Current Affairs APPWe are Hiring: Subject Matter Expert (English/Reasoning/Aptitude) – Freelancer/Full Time Govt Jobs by CategoryBank Jobs 2026- Various VacanciesGovernment Jobs 2026- Various VacanciesRailway Jobs 2026- Various VacanciesSSC Recruitment 2026- Various VacanciesSarkari Result 2026 Bank Jobs NotificationNIACL AO Recruitment 2024 – 170 Vacancies | Check Eligibility & Vacancy NowIOB Apprentice Recruitment 2024 – 550 Posts | Apply NowUnion Bank of India Apprentice Recruitment 2024 – 500 Posts | Apply NowIBPS SO 2024 Online Registration Last Date Extended – Check NowIBPS PO 2024 Online Registration Last Date Extended – Check Now.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

📝 Practice Questions (MCQs)

Test your knowledge with these questions based on today’s current affairs:

Q1. Which of the following is related to: Overview of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Visit to India on January 19, 2026?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q2. Which of the following is related to: BNHS and NMCG Launches Project to Protect Indian Skimmer in the Ganga Basin?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q3. Which of the following is related to: Support from Local Communities:?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q4. Which of the following is related to: Union Minister Manohar Lal Inaugurates?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q5. Which of the following is related to: Bharat Forge Secured Rs 300?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details