Current Affairs 15/01/2026
1. How many important declarations and MoUs were signed between India and Germany?
Answer : 8 declarations and 19 MoUs
India–Germany Bilateral Engagement: 8 Declarations and 19 MoUs Signed
India and Germany have further deepened their long-standing strategic partnership through the signing of 8 important declarations and 19 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during high-level bilateral engagements. These outcomes reflect the growing convergence of interests between the two countries in addressing global, regional, and developmental challenges.
Strategic Declarations
The 8 declarations provide a policy framework for enhanced cooperation and reaffirm mutual commitments in key priority areas. They focus on strengthening:
• Strategic and security cooperation
• Climate action and environmental sustainability
• Clean energy transition and green hydrogen
• Multilateral cooperation and global governance
• Economic resilience and sustainable growth
These declarations signal shared intent at the highest political level and guide long-term collaboration.
Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs)
The 19 MoUs translate political intent into actionable cooperation. They cover a wide range of sectors, including:
• Skills development and vocational education
• Science, technology, and innovation
• Digitalization and emerging technologies
• Renewable energy and climate finance
• Education, research collaboration, and mobility
The MoUs involve government bodies, academic institutions, and sectoral agencies, enabling practical implementation and measurable outcomes.
Significance of the Agreements
The signing of 8 declarations and 19 MoUs highlights the maturity of the India–Germany partnership. Germany remains one of India’s key partners in Europe, particularly in areas of green technology, industrial collaboration, and skill development. These agreements are expected to boost bilateral trade, encourage investment, promote innovation, and support India’s sustainable development goals.
Overall, the agreements reaffirm the commitment of both nations to a forward-looking, comprehensive partnership built on shared democratic values, economic cooperation, and global responsibility.
2. Between whom was the MoU signed to host the Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifier 2026?
Answer : Telangana Government and Hockey India
Telangana to Host Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifier 2026
In a significant step toward strengthening India’s position in international hockey, the Government of Telangana and Hockey India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to host the Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifier 2026. This agreement reflects Telangana’s growing reputation as a hub for hosting major global sporting events.
Under the MoU, Telangana will provide world-class infrastructure, logistics, and organizational support to successfully conduct the tournament. The event is expected to attract top women’s hockey teams from across the world, offering high-intensity competition and global exposure for Indian hockey.
Hosting the qualifier will not only promote women’s sports but also boost sports tourism and local economic activity in the state. It will further inspire young athletes, particularly women, to take up hockey as a professional sport.
The collaboration between the Telangana Government and Hockey India highlights a shared commitment to the development of hockey in India and aligns with national efforts to promote sports excellence, gender equality in sports, and international sporting engagement.
3. What is the main reason behind India’s logistics transformation?
Answer : Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals
Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals: The Backbone of India’s Logistics Transformation
India’s logistics sector is undergoing a major transformation, driven primarily by the development of Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. These terminals are designed to create a seamless, multimodal logistics network by integrating rail, road, ports, airports, and inland waterways.
Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals aim to reduce high logistics costs and improve the overall efficiency of cargo movement across the country. By providing modern infrastructure, mechanized handling systems, and improved last-mile connectivity, these terminals significantly cut transit time and enhance supply chain reliability.
The initiative also supports industrial growth by enabling faster movement of raw materials and finished goods, thereby boosting manufacturing, trade, and exports. In addition, it promotes private sector participation and public–private partnerships, ensuring sustainable and scalable logistics development.
Overall, Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals have emerged as the backbone of India’s logistics transformation, strengthening the nation’s competitiveness and supporting its long-term vision of becoming a global logistics and manufacturing hub.
4. Who chaired the 13th UGC Council meeting?
Answer : Education Minister
Education Minister Chairs 13th UGC Council Meeting
The 13th University Grants Commission (UGC) Council meeting was chaired by the Union Education Minister, underscoring the government’s direct involvement in shaping the future of higher education in India. The meeting served as an important platform to review ongoing reforms and discuss policy directions aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP).
During the council meeting, key issues related to quality enhancement in higher education, regulatory reforms, academic flexibility, and research promotion were deliberated. Emphasis was placed on strengthening universities, improving governance mechanisms, and ensuring that Indian higher education institutions remain globally competitive.
The presence and leadership of the Education Minister highlighted the priority accorded to education reforms, innovation, and student-centric learning. The meeting reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming India’s higher education ecosystem through coordinated efforts between policymakers, regulators, and academic institutions.
5. How many new Ayushman Arogya Mandirs were inaugurated by the Delhi Government?
Answer : 81
Delhi Government Inaugurates 81 New Ayushman Arogya Mandirs
The Delhi Government has inaugurated 81 new Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, marking a significant step toward strengthening the city’s primary healthcare system. This initiative is part of the broader national vision under Ayushman Bharat, aimed at ensuring accessible, affordable, and comprehensive healthcare services for all citizens.
The newly inaugurated Ayushman Arogya Mandirs will provide a wide range of primary healthcare services, including preventive care, maternal and child health services, management of non-communicable diseases, basic diagnostics, and essential medicines. These centers are designed to bring quality healthcare closer to communities, particularly in underserved and densely populated areas.
By expanding the network of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, the Delhi Government aims to reduce the burden on tertiary hospitals, promote early diagnosis, and improve overall health outcomes. The move reflects a strong commitment to public health infrastructure development and reinforces Delhi’s focus on people-centric healthcare delivery.
6. Who became the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket?
Answer : Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli Becomes the Second-Highest Run-Scorer in International Cricket
Indian batting legend Virat Kohli has achieved another historic milestone by becoming the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket. This remarkable achievement further cements his status as one of the greatest cricketers of the modern era and a global icon of the sport.
Kohli’s journey to this landmark has been defined by consistency, discipline, and adaptability across all three formats—Tests, One Day Internationals, and T20 Internationals. Known for his exceptional technique, fitness standards, and mental toughness, he has delivered match-winning performances against the strongest bowling attacks around the world.
Reaching this position on the all-time run-scoring list reflects Kohli’s longevity at the highest level of the game and his relentless hunger for excellence. Beyond personal records, his contributions have played a crucial role in India’s success across formats, inspiring a generation of young cricketers.
This achievement adds yet another chapter to Virat Kohli’s illustrious career, highlighting his enduring impact on international cricket and his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
7. When was Lohri celebrated in North India?
Answer : 13 January 2026
Lohri Celebrated Across North India on 13 January 2026
The vibrant harvest festival Lohri was celebrated across North India on 13 January 2026 with great enthusiasm and cultural fervor. Observed primarily in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of Delhi and Jammu, Lohri marks the end of the winter solstice and the arrival of longer days.
Traditionally associated with the rabi crop harvest, Lohri holds special significance for farmers and rural communities. Bonfires are lit in the evening, symbolizing warmth, prosperity, and the sun’s energy. People gather around the fire, offering sesame seeds, jaggery, peanuts, popcorn, and rewri, while singing folk songs and performing traditional dances such as Bhangra and Gidda.
Lohri is also considered highly auspicious for newlyweds and families celebrating the birth of a child, symbolizing new beginnings and abundance. The celebration on 13 January 2026 once again highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage and the strong connection between festivals, agriculture, and community life.