Today’s global landscape is marked by a significant realignment in international trade as India secures landmark agreements with both the U.S. and the EU. Meanwhile, the United States faces a critical deadline to end a partial government shutdown, and a major breakthrough occurs in Gaza with the partial reopening of the Rafah crossing.

India and the United States have finalized a historic trade agreement slashing reciprocal tariffs to 18% following a strategic shift in India's energy imports. Simultaneously, the Union Budget 2026-27 has introduced a new Income Tax Act and designated lightning as a major natural disaster due to rising fatalities.

Significant developments in global diplomacy mark the last 24 hours as the U.S. signals potential talks with Iran and the Rafah crossing sees a trial reopening. Simultaneously, the world grapples with high-casualty disasters, including a massive landslide in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and a lethal winter storm across North America.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented India’s first-ever Sunday Union Budget for 2026-27, featuring a record ₹12.2 lakh crore capital expenditure, a 15% hike in defence spending, and the announcement of the New Tax Act to be implemented from April 1, 2026.

Today’s global landscape is marked by intensifying rhetoric in the Middle East as Iran warns of a "regional war," the anticipated reopening of the Rafah border crossing in Gaza, a domestic fiscal crisis in the United States leading to a government shutdown, and a historic milestone in international sports with Carlos Alcaraz completing a career Grand Slam.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented India's first-ever Sunday Budget for the financial year 2026-27, prioritizing a 4.3% fiscal deficit target, a record ₹12.2 lakh crore capital expenditure, and strategic shifts in rural employment and semiconductor manufacturing.

On February 1, 2026, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that any U.S. military action would trigger a widespread regional conflict, while Tehran officially designated all European Union armies as "terrorist groups" in a major retaliatory move.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her record <b>ninth consecutive Union Budget</b> on February 1, 2026, prioritizing infrastructure growth with a 9% hike in capital expenditure, while providing significant relief for cancer patients through customs duty exemptions and introducing a new <b>Income Tax Act</b>.

The United States has officially designated the Egyptian, Lebanese, and Jordanian branches of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations, while President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Tehran as the death toll in the ongoing Iranian protests continues to rise.

The Government of India has officially notified the National Sports Governance Rules, 2026, to enhance transparency in sports bodies. Meanwhile, fresh economic data reveals a robust 8.2% GDP growth for Q2 FY26, and the Ministry of Education has announced major reforms for NITs and AI literacy.

The last 24 hours have marked a seismic shift in international relations, characterized by the swearing-in of an interim president in Venezuela following a U.S. military operation and a significant escalation in the Iranian protest crisis, with President Trump signaling direct support for demonstrators.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has officially notified the <b>National Sports Governance Rules, 2026</b>, establishing a new legal framework to enhance transparency, accountability, and professional management within National Sports Bodies (NSBs) across India.

In the last 24 hours, the Indian government has accelerated significant economic reforms, including opening up the nuclear sector to private investment and allowing full foreign ownership in insurance, alongside a new free trade pact with Oman. Concurrently, major welfare initiatives like the PM SVANidhi scheme for street vendors have been extended and enhanced, while the PM-POSHAN scheme continues to deliver nutritional support. The Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE 2.0) scheme has successfully supported over 1,700 startups, showcasing a strong push in science and technology. Amidst these developments, a political discussion arose over the renaming of a state-level employment scheme in West Bengal in response to changes in the central rural employment guarantee act.

Indian athletes have achieved notable success across various non-cricket sports in the last 24 hours. The men's doubles badminton pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty secured a historic bronze medal at the BWF World Tour Finals. In tennis, Y Sai Dedeepya and Ram Kumar Prasad clinched silver medals at the All India Railway Tennis Championship. Chess saw the Triveni Continental Kings consolidate their top spot in the Global Chess League, with D Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi also registering wins. Furthermore, East Bengal Women's FC emerged victorious in the inaugural SAFF Women's Club Championship. Amidst these achievements, India has formally announced its bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games.

India's science and technology landscape witnessed a flurry of significant developments over the past 24 hours, marked by groundbreaking research from CSIR, a major private sector investment in Artificial Intelligence by Reliance, continued government support for tech startups, and a pivotal legislative change in the nuclear energy sector. Educational initiatives to foster AI and robotics skills in schools also gained momentum.

India's economy is on a robust growth path, with Union Ministers projecting it to become the world's third-largest economy by 2027. This optimism is fueled by significant policy reforms, including 100% FDI in insurance, opening the nuclear sector to private players, and a repo rate cut by the RBI. Despite global trade challenges like US tariffs, India is implementing strategies to boost domestic investment and exports, with strong performances seen in electronics, automotive, and apparel sectors.

This summary covers significant global events from the last 24 hours, focusing on international relations, economic developments, scientific and technological advancements, and social welfare initiatives. Key highlights include ongoing geopolitical tensions with new US strikes in Syria and continued EU aid to Ukraine, alongside efforts to improve US-Russia trade relations. Economically, the European Central Bank maintained steady interest rates amidst an improving outlook, while India and Oman solidified economic ties with a new trade agreement. In science, breakthroughs were reported in quantum computing, solar cell efficiency, and exoplanet discovery, with China also making strides in semiconductor technology. Social welfare saw efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and new support for vulnerable women in Myanmar and prisoners in India.

India witnessed significant developments across various sectors on December 20, 2025. In politics, Prime Minister Modi campaigned in West Bengal, while Sonia Gandhi criticized the government's move to replace MGNREGA. Economically, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia projected India to become the third-largest economy by 2027, and electronics exports saw robust growth. Science and Technology advanced with new AI, STEM, and robotics labs in Karnataka, and Mukesh Ambani emphasized India's potential as an AI leader. Social welfare initiatives included a hygiene program in Andhra Pradesh, alongside concerns raised by CAG reports on data fraud in welfare schemes. In international relations, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored India's ambitious foreign policy, and India's role as a potential mediator in the Russia-Ukraine crisis was highlighted. Awards recognized contributions in hospitality and technology, and a key appointment was made at Bharti Airtel. In non-cricket sports, East Bengal Women's FC secured a championship title.

In the past 24 hours, India has seen significant advancements and policy overhauls across various sectors. Parliament approved the "Viksit Bharat- Guarantee For Rozgar And Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025," replacing the long-standing MGNREGA with a new, supply-driven rural employment scheme. Ladakh launched an incentive program for sustainable tourism, encouraging Sewage Treatment Plant installations in hotels. The government also highlighted new initiatives in digital governance with the AI-powered SabhaSaar tool, enhanced support for telecom technology development, and a comprehensive strategy to boost farmers' income. Efforts for tribal development and urban infrastructure were also underscored, alongside discussions on strengthening economic ties and innovation with Oman.

This daily current affairs update highlights recent achievements and developments in Indian non-cricket sports. Indian badminton duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty continued their strong performance at the BWF World Tour Finals, while chess prodigies Gukesh Dommaraju and Arjun Erigaisi secured victories in the Global Chess League. Indian boxers excelled at the Asian Boxing Championship, and a young Indian golfer clinched an international junior tournament. Discussions around the future of Indian football, including the Indian Super League's (ISL) structure and Santosh Trophy selections, remain prominent. Preparations for the Khelo India Winter Games are also gaining pace, alongside a notable win in national shooting.

India has seen significant advancements in science and technology over the past 24 hours, with a notable focus on integrating Artificial Intelligence into healthcare through a new community screening program for diabetic retinopathy. Indian scientists have also made breakthroughs in understanding cellular mechanisms relevant to Alzheimer's and cancer therapies. These developments are underpinned by ongoing governmental efforts to bolster research and development, including substantial funding for sunrise sectors and improved global rankings in innovation.

India has seen significant economic developments in the last 24 hours, including progress on trade agreements, robust direct tax collections, and ongoing efforts to improve the ease of doing business for MSMEs. The nation is also addressing its widening trade deficit with China and recalibrating its timeline for achieving a $5 trillion economy. The Reserve Bank of India has characterized the current economic phase as a "Goldilocks period" of high growth and low inflation, while highlighting the need for regulatory reforms.

The past 24 hours have seen significant global developments across various sectors. In international relations, the Gaza conflict continues with reports of Israeli airstrikes and ongoing humanitarian concerns, while the US expanded its travel ban. India strengthened its strategic ties with Ethiopia and Oman, with PM Modi receiving Oman's highest civilian honor. Economically, the global outlook remains uncertain with warnings of recession and financial bubbles, while China's leadership in renewable energy was recognized as a major scientific breakthrough. Advances in space communications and quantum computing also marked the science and technology landscape.

In the past 24 hours, India has seen significant developments across governance, international relations, and technology. The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has led to the deletion of over 1.4 crore electors across several states and Union Territories, prompting caution from the Supreme Court. Parliament passed the transformative SHANTI Bill, 2025, aimed at overhauling nuclear energy governance, and introduced the Securities Markets Code Bill, 2025. India also solidified its economic ties with Oman through a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). In a notable scientific advancement, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology launched DHRUV64, an indigenous microprocessor.

In a significant span of 24 hours, India has seen the introduction and passage of key legislative reforms aimed at transforming rural employment, higher education, and boosting the science and technology landscape. The Lok Sabha passed the 'Viksit Bharat – Guarantee For Rozgar And Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025,' replacing MGNREGA with an expanded and reoriented rural employment scheme. Concurrently, the 'Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025,' was introduced to streamline higher education regulation, while new initiatives like the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme and the 5th National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP) were highlighted to propel India's scientific and economic growth.

Indian sports witnessed a dynamic 24 hours with significant developments across badminton, chess, football, and tennis. India's top men's doubles badminton pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, continued their impressive run at the BWF World Tour Finals, securing another victory. In chess, the Global Chess League saw intense competition with performances from D Gukesh and Viswanathan Anand. Indian football faced a setback as Mohun Bagan Super Giant received a ban from continental competitions, while a landmark transgender football league commenced in Jamshedpur. The World Tennis League also made its debut in Bengaluru, bringing international stars to Indian courts. India has also announced its intention to bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.

India's science and technology landscape has witnessed notable progress in the last 24 hours, particularly in its ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, the burgeoning quantum technology sector, and the robust performance of its tech startup ecosystem. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is nearing completion of the assembly for its maiden uncrewed Gaganyaan mission, while the state of Andhra Pradesh has announced plans for a "Quantum Valley." India also unveiled its first indigenous 64-bit dual-core microprocessor and launched an AI-driven initiative for diabetic retinopathy screening. Despite a global funding slowdown, Indian tech startups secured significant investments, maintaining a strong global position.

India has signed a landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman, marking a significant step in enhancing its economic engagement in the Gulf region. This comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's continued status as the fastest-growing major economy globally, with growth exceeding 8%. Additionally, India's telecom exports have shown remarkable growth, increasing by 72%. These developments are set against a backdrop of ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of US tariffs and strengthen India's position in global trade.

Major global developments on December 18, 2025, include the U.S. Senate's approval of a record military spending bill and new sanctions on International Criminal Court judges, while Venezuela condemned alleged U.S. "colonialism." Economically, the European Central Bank maintained interest rates as the Bank of England cut theirs, and the U.S. Department of Energy launched a significant AI initiative for scientific discovery. India advanced international relations with Saudi Arabia and Argentina, and celebrated achievements in non-cricket sports.

India has seen a bustling 24 hours with significant developments across various sectors. Major highlights include the signing of a landmark economic partnership agreement with Oman, the parliamentary approval of the 'SHANTI' Bill to reform nuclear energy, and the passage of the 'VB-G RAM G' Bill aimed at rural employment. The nation also made strides in science and technology, while Prime Minister Modi received Oman's highest honor. Domestically, important social welfare legislations were passed in Karnataka and Jharkhand, and new appointments were made to key financial and public sector undertakings. However, a recent report from WADA highlighted India's continued struggle with doping in sports.

India witnessed a flurry of significant developments across various sectors in the last 24 hours. The Parliament's Winter Session saw the passage of key bills, including one to privatize the nuclear energy sector and another related to insurance law amendments. Economically, India's GDP is projected to grow around 7% in FY26, and the government announced a hike in minimum wages. In science and technology, new initiatives focused on geospatial technologies, AI-driven healthcare, and indigenous microprocessor development. Major strides were also made in social welfare with the launch of the Clean Rivers Mission Phase-II and a campaign to deliver welfare schemes effectively. Internationally, Prime Minister Modi concluded a three-nation tour, and India is set to assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2026. Non-cricket sports brought laurels with the Indian squash team winning their maiden World Cup gold.

India has witnessed significant legislative activity in the last 24 hours, with the introduction of two pivotal bills aimed at reforming rural employment and higher education. The Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB–G RAM G) Bill, 2025, seeks to replace the existing MGNREGA, enhancing guaranteed workdays and revising funding mechanisms. Simultaneously, the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA) Bill, 2025, proposes a comprehensive overhaul of the higher education regulatory landscape, establishing a new apex body and separating regulatory and funding functions. Additionally, a substantial project for community-based disaster risk reduction has been approved, and a new report highlights India's progress in clean energy transition.

Indian athletes have made significant strides in various non-cricket sports over the past 24 hours. The formidable men's doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty are set to represent India at the prestigious BWF World Tour Finals. Meanwhile, India concluded its campaign at the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games with an impressive medal tally, showcasing excellence in para-badminton and para-table tennis. In chess, the Global Chess League is underway with mixed results for Indian grandmasters, while Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa secured a coveted spot in the Candidates tournament. Additionally, the much-anticipated Lionel Messi "GOAT India Tour 2025" concluded, generating immense fan excitement across the nation. India has also announced its plans to host the inaugural Commonwealth Kho Kho Championship in 2026.

India's science and technology landscape has demonstrated significant progress in late 2025, marked by breakthroughs in healthcare, sustainable infrastructure, space exploration, and strategic partnerships. Key highlights include CSIR's innovative solutions for sickle cell disease and green infrastructure, ISRO's advancements in space docking and solar storm research, the unveiling of India's indigenous Dhruv64 chip, and new initiatives to boost semiconductor manufacturing and STEM education. The government also introduced a bill to significantly expand the nuclear energy sector.

India witnessed a dynamic 24 hours with significant economic, political, and social developments. The Indian Rupee touched a new low against the US Dollar, while the RBI intervened to inject liquidity. Major legislative actions included the introduction of new bills for rural employment and nuclear energy. Diplomatically, Prime Minister Modi concluded important visits to Jordan and Ethiopia, strengthening bilateral ties. In the science and technology sector, advancements in Alzheimer's treatment and a new self-reliant chip ecosystem were highlighted. Social welfare initiatives focused on aid for the differently-abled and ex-servicemen. Several key appointments were announced across public sector undertakings. Indian athletes also made headlines in chess, hockey, and shooting.

The past 24 hours have seen significant developments across international politics, economy, science, and social welfare. European leaders have committed to extensive security guarantees and substantial financial aid for Ukraine, while the International Criminal Court upheld its Gaza war crimes probe, maintaining arrest warrants for Israeli leaders. The global economy is projected to continue growing, largely driven by Artificial Intelligence investments, even as humanitarian aid budgets face historic lows. Breakthroughs in AI efficiency and new space discoveries mark scientific progress. Tragically, the Sydney Bondi Beach shooting has been classified as anti-Semitic terrorism. India saw its Prime Minister receive Ethiopia's highest civilian honor and also celebrated a victory in the Squash World Cup.

India has witnessed significant policy developments in the last 24-48 hours, with the government introducing key legislative changes and initiatives. Among the most prominent are the proposed replacement of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with the Viksit Bharat—Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, which aims to increase guaranteed employment days and align with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. Concurrently, the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, has been introduced to open the civil nuclear sector to private participation. The higher education landscape is also set for a major overhaul with the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025, proposing a unified regulatory body. These reforms underscore India's push towards economic modernization, social welfare, and sustainable development.

India has witnessed a remarkable period in non-cricket sports, marked by its historic triumph at the SDAT Squash World Cup and an exceptional performance at the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games. Indian athletes also secured multiple medals at the National Shooting Championships, while significant contributions to sports development were recognized at various national awards. Additionally, the state of Maharashtra launched a new initiative to promote sports, and football icon Lionel Messi is set to visit India.

India is witnessing significant advancements and policy changes in its science and technology sector. Key developments include the introduction of the SHANTI Bill to privatize the nuclear energy sector, India's growing global leadership in Machine Learning-enabled scientific research, and new insights from NASA regarding the changing patterns of stubble burning in Northern India. The nation also continues to make strides in AI adoption across various sectors and emphasizes sustainable development initiatives.

India's economy demonstrated strong performance in December 2025, marked by a significant rebound in merchandise exports, a narrowed trade deficit, and upward revisions in GDP growth forecasts. Retail inflation continued its downward trend, prompting the Reserve Bank of India to cut interest rates. Despite a depreciating rupee and foreign fund outflows, the manufacturing sector showed strength, bolstered by the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, and the banking sector recorded improved asset quality. The unemployment rate also fell to an 8-month low.

The past 24-48 hours have seen significant global events across politics, international relations, economy, science, social welfare, and sports. Highlights include ongoing border conflicts in Southeast Asia, crucial elections and government formations, advancements in AI and infrastructure, and notable achievements in non-cricket sports. A tragic mass shooting in Sydney, Australia, has also drawn international attention and led to policy discussions.

India has witnessed significant developments across various sectors over the past 24-48 hours. Economically, the nation continues its robust growth trajectory, with the Finance Minister highlighting India as the fastest-growing major economy and citing recent credit rating upgrades. Major legislative actions include the tabling of bills concerning nuclear energy and higher education, while a controversial bill to replace MGNREGA has been postponed. In international relations, Prime Minister Modi has embarked on a multi-nation diplomatic tour, and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar held key meetings in the UAE and Israel. Technologically, India achieved a milestone with the launch of its first indigenous microprocessor, and in sports, the nation celebrated a historic Squash World Cup victory.

India has witnessed a series of significant government policy announcements and reforms over the past 24-48 hours, impacting various critical sectors. These include major legislative moves in higher education, comprehensive economic and industrial reforms, advancements in energy conservation and renewable targets, and crucial updates in social welfare schemes. The focus remains on enhancing ease of doing business, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening social security nets for its citizens.

Indian non-cricket sports witnessed significant achievements and events over the past 24 hours. In badminton, Unnati Hooda and Kiran George secured singles titles at the Odisha Masters 2025. India also triumphed in squash, winning the SDAT Squash World Cup 2025 on home soil. Chess saw the commencement of the Global Chess League in Mumbai and a young Indian prodigy setting a new record. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi's 'GOAT Tour' in Kolkata was marred by fan unrest.

India is witnessing a significant surge in its science and technology sector, marked by the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) ambitious launch plans, including the rescheduled BlueBird-6 mission and the uncrewed Gaganyaan test flight. The nation is also solidifying its position as a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) research, contributing significantly to scientific publications and fostering ethical AI development. Adding to these milestones, Indian scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery of an early-universe spiral galaxy, challenging long-held astronomical theories. The innovation ecosystem is further boosted by initiatives like the Smart India Hackathon and new energy innovation awards, alongside advancements in monsoon prediction research.

The Indian economy continues its robust growth trajectory, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing major economy. Key highlights include significant growth in family businesses, a healthy banking sector with reduced Non-Performing Assets, and substantial success in Production Linked Incentive schemes. However, the Indian Rupee has experienced a notable slump against the US dollar. India is also actively engaging in international trade discussions and seeing increased adoption of AI.

The world witnessed significant developments across various sectors on December 14th and 15th, 2025. In politics, Chile elected an ultra-conservative president, while the US implemented stricter social media screening for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. The global economy is abuzz with central bank policy decisions and China's efforts to boost consumption. Science and Technology saw breakthroughs in dark matter research, satellite launches, and quantum computing. Tragic news emerged from Australia with a mass shooting in Sydney, leading to heightened security globally. In sports, India excelled in Squash and Shooting, and several non-cricket tournaments were announced or underway.

India witnessed significant developments across various sectors on December 14, 2025. Economically, the nation saw a decrease in retail inflation and an appreciation of the Rupee, alongside a major policy shift allowing 100% FDI in the insurance sector. Politically, the Congress party held a rally against alleged "vote theft," while the BJP announced a new working president. In science and technology, initiatives ranged from a national cyber safety campaign and ISRO's satellite preparations to a new study on Himalayan air movements for monsoon prediction. Environmental concerns were addressed with tightened pollution curbs in Delhi due to worsening air quality. Internationally, India engaged in diplomatic consultations with Georgia and prepared for PM Modi's visit to Jordan, marking 75 years of ties. Key appointments included an Acting Chief Justice for the Sikkim High Court, and national awards were presented for energy conservation. Non-cricket sports also saw an Indian chess prodigy winning an international title and impressive performances by Indian shooters.

India has witnessed significant policy developments and reforms over the past 24-48 hours, impacting social welfare, economic sectors, and governance. Key announcements include a revamp of the MGNREGA scheme, liberalization of the nuclear energy sector, and approval of a free trade agreement with Oman. Economic indicators show robust growth in trade and foreign direct investment, while new initiatives aim to bolster various industries and social security for citizens.

Indian athletes have demonstrated remarkable prowess in various non-cricket sports over the past 24 hours, securing significant victories and making historic debuts on both international and national platforms. Highlights include India's first-ever gold medal at the POSA World Aerial Championships, a record-breaking medal haul at the Asian Youth Para Games, securing a gold medal in Badminton's Odisha Masters, advancing to the Squash World Cup final, and notable achievements in national shooting championships. Wrestler Vinesh Phogat also announced her return with an eye on the 2028 Olympics.