“IMPORTANT DAYS”

National Youth Day 2026

National Youth Day is celebrated every year on January 12 across India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the country’s most influential philosophers, spiritual leaders, and youth icons. More than just a commemorative date, National Youth Day serves as a powerful platform to inspire India’s younger generation to embrace positive values and actively contribute to nation-building.

“AWARDS”

Italy Honours Goa Industrialist Shrinivas Dempo with Prestigious Civilian Award

Italy has conferred one of its highest civilian distinctions, the Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia, on eminent Goa-based industrialist Shrinivas Dempo. The award acknowledges his long-standing contribution to supporting Italian citizens in India and his role in promoting bilateral cooperation between India and Italy across business, cultural and community domains. The honour highlights how non-state actors and industry leaders play a critical role in strengthening diplomatic relations beyond formal government channels, a theme increasingly relevant in contemporary international relations.

“DEFENCE”

Exercise ‘Sanjha Shakti’ Held at Dighi Hills to Enhance Disaster Response Preparedness

The Indian Army has conducted Exercise ‘Sanjha Shakti’ to strengthen coordination between military forces and civilian agencies. Exercise Held under the Southern Command, the exercise focused on improving emergency response, disaster management and public safety through joint action in complex security situations.

DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous MPATGM with Top-Attack Capability

India achieved another defense milestone as DRDO successfully flight-tested the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile on January 11, 2026. The test was conducted against a moving target in Maharashtra. The missile demonstrated its top-attack and fire-and-forget capability. This success brings the indigenous weapon system closer to induction into the Indian Army.

“SPORTS”

Virat Kohli Becomes Second-Highest Run-Scorer in International Cricket

Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has once again etched his name into the record books. During a match winning innings against New Zealand, Kohli crossed a major milestone in international cricket. The achievement highlights his consistency, longevity, and dominance across formats, reinforcing his status as one of the greatest batters in the history of the game. Virat Kohli has become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara. He achieved the milestone during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara.

 “APPOINTMENTS”

Meghalaya Gets Its First Woman Chief Justice

In a landmark moment for the judiciary in Northeast India, Meghalaya has appointed its first woman Chief Justice. Justice Revati Mohite Dere took oath in Shillong, creating history in the matrilineal state. Her appointment is seen as a step towards greater gender representation in higher judiciary and strengthening judicial leadership in the region. Revati Mohite Dere was sworn in as the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court. She succeeded Soumen Sen, who was transferred to the Kerala High Court.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Appoints Anup Kumar Saha as Whole-Time Director

In an important leadership development in India’s private banking sector, Kotak Mahindra Bank has appointed Anup Kumar Saha as its Whole Time Director, effective 12 January 2026. The appointment, announced by the bank on Monday, is subject to regulatory approvals and is aimed at strengthening Kotak’s senior management as it accelerates its customer-centric and digital transformation agenda. This move reflects the bank’s strategic focus on deepening leadership capacity amid rising competition and rapid technological change in the Indian banking ecosystem.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Aralam Declared Kerala’s First Butterfly Sanctuary

The Kerala government has taken a major step towards biodiversity conservation by giving Aralam a new identity. The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur has now been officially renamed as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary. The decision recognises the area’s exceptional butterfly diversity and marks a focused effort to protect fragile habitats while promoting awareness and eco-friendly development.