Current Affairs Summary – January 22, 2026

Current Affairs Summary – January 22, 2026

1. Amit Shah Honors Thakur Roshan Singh – A Hero of the Kakori Conspiracy

Home Minister Amit Shah recently honored Thakur Roshan Singh, a revolutionary associated with the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), for his pivotal role in the Kakori Conspiracy. This conspiracy, which took place in 1925, was one of the boldest attacks on British rule. Alongside fellow revolutionaries like Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and Rashid Lahiri, Singh fought for India’s freedom by challenging the oppressive colonial system. Shah’s recognition of Singh underscores the sacrifices made by many unsung heroes in India’s independence struggle.

2. India Welcomes Spain into the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative

In a significant development in international diplomacy, India welcomed Spain into the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, a program launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019. The inclusion of Spain in this initiative was formalized by Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. This partnership aims to promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, emphasizing sustainable maritime governance and strengthening the region’s security and economic cooperation.

3. Peace Initiative at Davos: Global Leaders Sign Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’

At the World Economic Forum (Davos), global leaders, including representatives from Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, and Turkey, signed Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ agreement. This deal aims to enhance cooperation in the Middle East and beyond, with India and Russia studying its potential impact. However, countries like Norway and Sweden have raised concerns regarding the deal’s alignment with the UN Charter, signaling geopolitical tensions in the region.

4. President Trump’s Greenland Deal with NATO

In a significant geopolitical shift, President Trump announced a deal with NATO regarding Greenland, aiming to eliminate military threats and address tariff concerns. This deal, while promoting cooperation, also highlights Trump’s persistent ambition to acquire the island, a move that has drawn mixed reactions. Despite NATO’s support, Denmark, which administers Greenland, remains cautious about this development.

5. Graca Machel to Receive the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize

Graca Machel, the former First Lady of Mozambique and South Africa, has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for her lifelong work advocating for women’s and children’s rights globally. Her efforts in humanitarian work and her significant contributions to peace and social justice have been recognized worldwide.

6. 150 Years of Vande Mataram Celebrated at Republic Day Tableau

In honor of the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’, the iconic patriotic song that became the battle cry for India’s freedom struggle, the Republic Day tableau showcased the original manuscript of the song. This celebration also featured performances by folk artists and Gen-Z singers, symbolizing India’s enduring spirit of nationalism and the integration of past and present cultural expressions.

7. Draft National Electricity Policy 2026 Unveiled

The Ministry of Power unveiled the Draft National Electricity Policy 2026, setting ambitious goals for India’s energy future. Under the policy, the government aims to increase per capita electricity consumption to 2,000 kWh by 2030 and 4,000 kWh by 2047 as part of India’s vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat (developed nation). This plan is part of the country’s long-term strategy to achieve sustainable economic growth with a focus on clean and renewable energy.

8. Japan Restarts Reactor No. 6 at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Plant

In a major step toward nuclear energy revival, Japan restarted Reactor No. 6 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant after nearly 15 years since the Fukushima disaster. This move marks Japan’s transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future, as it seeks to enhance energy security while addressing environmental concerns.

9. Telangana’s ‘Bharat Future City’ Receives UAE Backing

During the Davos summit, Telangana secured UAE’s backing for the development of Bharat Future City, India’s first net-zero smart city. This collaboration aims to turn Telangana into a powerhouse for innovation and sustainability. The state also aims to reach a $3 trillion economy by 2047, a monumental step towards fulfilling India’s vision of economic growth in the coming decades.

10. New Ginger Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

A new species of ginger, Parakaempferia alba, was discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region. This discovery highlights the ecological importance of the northeast, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that continues to fascinate scientists and researchers globally.

11. NGT Directs Action on Souparnika River Pollution

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Udupi District Commissioner and the Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board to submit an action plan to prevent wastewater discharge into the Souparnika River. The river, which originates from the Kodachadri Hills, is an essential water resource for the region, and the NGT’s order aims to protect its environmental health.

12. Abu Dhabi Named World’s Safest City for 10th Consecutive Year

For the 10th consecutive year, Abu Dhabi has been ranked as the world’s safest city according to the Numbeo Global Safety Index 2026. The UAE capital’s remarkable achievements in safety, governance, and infrastructure make it a leading example of urban well-being in the Middle East.

Conclusion

The events of January 22, 2026, reflect significant strides in India’s national and international affairs. From honoring revolutionary leaders like Thakur Roshan Singh to forging global partnerships through the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, India continues to assert its leadership in both regional and global contexts. Alongside its diplomatic achievements, India is focusing on sustainable development, with initiatives like the Draft National Electricity Policy and the Bharat Future City project, reinforcing its commitment to a brighter, more prosperous future.