Current Affairs 10/01/2026
1. Nagori Ashwagandha has received the GI tag for being associated with which state?
Answer : Rajasthan
Nagori (Nagauri) Ashwagandha Receives GI Tag
Nagori (also known as Nagauri) Ashwagandha, a renowned medicinal plant variety, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its unique origin and qualities linked to the state of Rajasthan. This GI certification highlights the traditional knowledge, regional specificity, and superior medicinal properties of this indigenous herb.
Nagori Ashwagandha is primarily cultivated in the Nagaur region of Rajasthan, where the arid climate, sandy soil, and low rainfall contribute to its high potency. Compared to other varieties, it is known for its higher concentration of withanolides, the active compounds responsible for Ashwagandha’s therapeutic benefits.
Widely used in Ayurveda, Nagori Ashwagandha is valued for its role in enhancing immunity, reducing stress, improving stamina, and supporting overall well-being. The GI tag not only helps in protecting farmers from imitation products but also boosts the market value, export potential, and global recognition of this traditional crop.
The GI recognition is a significant step towards preserving India’s herbal heritage and promoting sustainable livelihoods for local farmers in Rajasthan, while ensuring authenticity and quality for consumers worldwide.
2. Jinson Johnson is associated with which sport?
Answer : Athletics
Jinson Johnson: A Prominent Figure in Indian Athletics
Jinson Johnson is a distinguished Indian athlete associated with track and field athletics, specializing in middle-distance events, particularly the 800 metres and 1500 metres. Hailing from Kerala, he has emerged as one of India’s most consistent and successful runners in recent years.
Jinson Johnson gained national and international recognition after winning the gold medal in the men’s 1500 metres at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, a landmark achievement that ended India’s long wait for gold in the event at the continental level. He has also secured medals at the Asian Athletics Championships, further establishing his dominance in middle-distance running.
Known for his tactical racing and strong finishing kick, Jinson Johnson has played a vital role in strengthening India’s reputation in athletics. His achievements continue to inspire young athletes and contribute to the development of competitive track and field sports in the country.
3. Where will the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management be held?
Answer : New Delhi
India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management to Be Held in New Delhi
The India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management is set to be held in New Delhi, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in democratic practices and electoral governance. The conference serves as an important international platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and cooperation among election management bodies, policymakers, scholars, and democratic institutions from across the world.
The event focuses on key themes such as free and fair elections, use of technology in electoral processes, voter participation, transparency, and institutional capacity-building. It also highlights India’s extensive experience in conducting large-scale elections, including innovations like electronic voting systems and inclusive electoral practices.
By hosting the conference, New Delhi becomes a hub for global discussions on strengthening democratic institutions and improving election management systems. The conference is expected to contribute significantly to international collaboration and the promotion of democratic values worldwide.
4. Kabindra Purkayastha was associated with which field?
Answer : Politics
Kabindra Purkayastha and His Association with Politics
Kabindra Purkayastha was a prominent Indian public figure associated with the field of politics. He played an active role in the political landscape of Assam, contributing significantly to public service and governance through his association with national political institutions.
Kabindra Purkayastha served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, where he represented Assam and participated in legislative discussions on various national and regional issues. He was also known for holding responsibilities within the central government framework, reflecting his involvement in policy-making and administrative affairs.
Recognized for his commitment to democratic values and public welfare, Kabindra Purkayastha’s political career left a lasting impact, particularly in strengthening the representation of the North-Eastern region in national politics.
5. The UN has declared 2026 as the International Year of what?
Answer : Rangelands and Pastoralists
United Nations Declares 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists
The United Nations has declared 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, underscoring the global importance of rangeland ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. This declaration aims to raise awareness about the critical role rangelands play in food security, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.
Rangelands cover nearly half of the Earth’s land surface and support millions of pastoralists worldwide. These ecosystems are vital for livestock grazing, carbon sequestration, and maintaining ecological balance. However, they face increasing threats from climate change, land degradation, desertification, and unsustainable land-use practices.
By designating 2026 as an international year, the UN seeks to promote sustainable rangeland management, recognize the traditional knowledge of pastoralist communities, and encourage policy actions that protect their rights and livelihoods. The initiative also emphasizes the need for global cooperation to ensure the long-term health of rangelands and the socio-economic well-being of pastoralists, contributing to broader sustainable development goals.
6. Who has been appointed as the Chairman of the Leather Export Council?
Answer : Ramesh Kumar Juneja
Ramesh Kumar Juneja Appointed Chairman of the Leather Export Council
Ramesh Kumar Juneja has been appointed as the Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports (CLE), the apex export promotion body representing India’s leather, footwear, and leather products industry. His appointment marks a significant leadership transition aimed at strengthening India’s position in the global leather market.
A seasoned industrialist, Ramesh Kumar Juneja brings over four decades of experience in the leather sector. Prior to assuming the chairmanship, he served as the Vice-Chairman of CLE and has been closely associated with the council for many years, contributing to policy advocacy, export promotion, and industry development initiatives.
As Chairman, Mr. Juneja is expected to focus on enhancing export competitiveness, sustainability practices, skill development, and international market access for Indian leather products. His leadership comes at a crucial time as the industry adapts to global challenges such as changing consumer preferences, environmental standards, and supply chain transformations.
His appointment reflects the industry’s confidence in his vision and expertise to guide the Indian leather export sector toward sustainable growth, innovation, and stronger global engagement.
7. The newly discovered grasshopper species in Kashmir belongs to which genus?
Answer : Conocephalus
Newly Discovered Grasshopper Species in Kashmir Identified Under Conocephalus Genus
A newly discovered species of grasshopper in Kashmir has been classified under the genus Conocephalus, marking an important contribution to India’s biodiversity and entomological research. The discovery highlights the rich and still largely unexplored insect diversity of the Himalayan region.
The genus Conocephalus belongs to the Tettigoniidae family, commonly known as katydids or bush crickets. Species under this genus are typically characterized by their slender bodies, elongated heads, and long antennae, and they are often found in grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural ecosystems.
The identification of a new Conocephalus species in Kashmir is significant from both ecological and scientific perspectives. Grasshoppers and related insects play a crucial role in food chains and serve as indicators of ecosystem health. Such discoveries also emphasize the need for conservation efforts and continued biological surveys in ecologically sensitive regions like Kashmir.
This finding adds to India’s growing record of newly documented species and underscores the importance of taxonomic research in understanding and preserving natural biodiversity.