“IMPORTANT DAYS”

World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day 2026 – January 30

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day (WNTDD) is observed annually across the globe on 30 January to raise awareness about the severe impact of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) on impoverished and underserved populations. 30 January 2026 marks the 7th observance of the WNTDD. Theme: 2026 Theme: “Unite. Act. Eliminate”.

28 January – International Data Privacy Day

International Data Privacy Day is observed every year on 28 January to raise awareness about the importance of protecting personal and sensitive data online. Theme 2026 – Take Control of Your Data. The day emphasizes digital privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible data handling for individuals, businesses, and governments.

“AWARDS”

Lieutenant Colonel Sita Ashok Shelke, Sikkim Disaster Authority Honoured with Subhas Chandra Bose National Award 2026

Lieutenant Colonel Sita Ashok Shelke has been awarded the Subhas Chandra Bose National Award for Disaster Management 2026 in the individual category for her exceptional contributions in disaster management. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority has been selected for the award in the institutional category. These awards honour outstanding efforts in disaster preparedness, response, and resilience, recognising exemplary contributions across India.

Uttarakhand Wins Best State Award for Aviation Promotion

Uttarakhand has been conferred the national award for ‘Best State for Promotion of Aviation and Ecosystem’ at WINGS INDIA 2026, recognising its strategic use of aviation to improve connectivity, tourism, and public services in challenging mountainous terrain. The honour highlights the state’s growing role in strengthening India’s regional aviation landscape. The three-day aviation event, WINGS INDIA 2026, began on January 29 and will conclude on January 31 at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad.

“APPOINTMENTS”

Kota Ravi Appointed as CMD of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

On January 29, 2026, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a premier Schedule A Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Defence(MoD), appointed Kota Ravi as its new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD). He will succeed Dr. D.K. Sunil who will retire in April 2026. He has over three decades of experience in aviation, manufacturing, and aerospace programme management.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Fifth Rüsoma Orange Festival Begins in Nagaland

The fifth edition of the Rüsoma Orange Festival commenced today at Rüsoma village in Nagaland, marking another step in showcasing rural prosperity through horticulture-led development. The festival is being held around 10 kilometres from the state capital, Kohima, and highlights the growing economic and cultural importance of orange cultivation in the region. Held under the theme “Abundance of Rüsoma”, the two-day festival aims to promote village welfare, strengthen rural entrepreneurship, and recognise the sustained efforts of local orange growers.

Indian Railways Launches First LNG-Diesel Dual-Fuel DEMU Train

Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable transport by operationalising the country’s first LNG-Diesel dual-fuel Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) train. The initiative marks a decisive step towards reducing emissions and fuel costs in rail operations, aligning with broader national clean energy goals. The dual-fuel DEMU train has been operationalised at Sabarmati in Ahmedabad under Indian Railways. The project involved converting the driving power cars of a 1,400 horsepower DEMU train to operate on a dual-fuel system.