Health & Insurance
Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima
Launched by the Finance Ministry in January 2026 for CGHS beneficiaries. Coverage provided by New India Assurance with hospitalisation cover ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. The policy is optional, retail-based with flexible co-payment options and discounted premiums.
Economy & Trade
Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024
NITI Aayog’s EPI 2024 ranked Maharashtra first among large states, followed by Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Uttar Pradesh emerged as the top-performing landlocked state (4th nationwide). The index uses 4 pillars, 13 sub-pillars, and 70 indicators.
Economy
World Bank’s India GDP Forecast
World Bank raised India’s GDP growth forecast to 7.2% for FY 2025-26, making India the fastest-growing major economy. Growth driven by strong domestic demand, tax reforms improving household incomes, and resilient rural consumption. Growth may moderate to 6.5% in FY27.
International Trade
India-China Trade Deficit 2025
India’s trade deficit with China reached a record $116.12 billion in 2025. Total bilateral trade hit $155.62 billion. India’s exports to China rose to $19.75 billion, with marine products and spices gaining ground. Chinese exports to India grew faster, perpetuating the imbalance.
Defence
78th Indian Army Day Parade
The 78th Army Day parade in Jaipur marked the first time the main event was held outside a military cantonment. Traditionally held at Cariappa Parade Ground, Delhi until 2023, then adopted rotating city format. The newly raised Bhairav Battalion made its first public appearance.
International Affairs
India’s BRICS 2026 Chairship
India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit in 2026 with theme: ‘Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability’. This is India’s first BRICS leadership in its expanded 10-nation configuration. Indonesia became the first Southeast Asian BRICS member in 2025.
Risk Assessment
WEF Global Risks Report 2026
Theme: ‘Age of Competition’. Cyber insecurity identified as India’s most significant national risk, ahead of inequality and weak public services. Report flagged Indus River Basin as potential India-Pakistan water conflict flashpoint. India’s UPI recognised as global best practice in digital public infrastructure.
Banking & Finance
FEDAI as SRO for Forex Market
RBI recognised FEDAI (Foreign Exchange Dealers’ Association of India) as Self-Regulatory Organisation for the foreign exchange market. This formalises FEDAI’s long-standing role in guiding authorised dealers, aiming for greater uniformity, discipline, and transparency in forex operations.
Environment
Miyawaki Method of Afforestation
Developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s. Creates dense forests in limited spaces by planting trees close together. Uses only native species. Plants grow 10 times faster than conventional methods. Forests become self-sustaining in 2-3 years.
Global Rankings
Henley Passport Index 2026
India’s passport rose 5 places to rank 80th globally (up from 85th in 2025). Indian passport holders can visit 55 destinations without pre-approved visa. Singapore holds the world’s strongest passport with access to 192 destinations, followed by Japan and South Korea.