Current Affairs 20/01/2026
1. Where will the second Global Buddhist Summit be held?
Answer : New Delhi
Second Global Buddhist Summit to Be Held in New Delhi
The Second Global Buddhist Summit is scheduled to be held in New Delhi, reinforcing India’s role as a global center of Buddhist heritage and dialogue. Organized with the objective of promoting the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha, the summit will bring together monks, scholars, policymakers, spiritual leaders, and representatives from Buddhist countries across the world.
The summit aims to highlight Buddhism’s relevance in addressing contemporary global challenges such as peacebuilding, compassion, sustainable development, and ethical living. Key discussions will focus on the application of Buddhist philosophy in modern society, intercultural dialogue, and the role of Buddhism in fostering harmony and mutual understanding.
By hosting the summit in New Delhi, India emphasizes its civilizational connection to Buddhism and its commitment to promoting soft power diplomacy through cultural and spiritual engagement. The event is expected to strengthen international cooperation, enhance people-to-people ties, and project India as a hub for spiritual tourism and global dialogue.
2. Where did CSIR-CIMFR conduct India’s first hydrogen compressor safety assessment?
Answer : Greater Noida
CSIR-CIMFR Conducts India’s First Hydrogen Compressor Safety Assessment at Greater Noida
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) has successfully conducted India’s first hydrogen compressor safety assessment at Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. This landmark assessment marks a significant step in strengthening India’s hydrogen safety ecosystem as the country moves towards clean and sustainable energy solutions.
The safety assessment was carried out on an integrated hydrogen compressor–dispenser system, focusing on evaluating operational safety, risk mitigation measures, and compliance with international safety standards. The initiative supports India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to promote hydrogen as a key fuel for decarbonization in transport, industry, and power generation.
CSIR-CIMFR’s involvement highlights its expanding role beyond mining research into advanced energy safety and infrastructure validation. The successful assessment at Greater Noida is expected to build confidence among stakeholders, facilitate wider adoption of hydrogen technologies, and contribute to the development of robust regulatory and safety frameworks for hydrogen infrastructure in India.
3. Who won the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026?
Answer : Vidarbha
Vidarbha Wins Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026 in Historic Triumph
Vidarbha clinched the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026, marking a historic milestone as the team secured its first-ever title in India’s premier domestic One-Day cricket tournament. The championship victory highlights Vidarbha’s consistent performance, strategic brilliance, and strong team cohesion throughout the season.
In the grand finale, Vidarbha delivered an impressive all-round performance, showcasing disciplined batting and bowling to outclass their opponents and lift the prestigious trophy. The triumph reflects the team’s growing dominance in Indian domestic cricket and reinforces Vidarbha’s reputation as a rising powerhouse in limited-overs formats.
The Vijay Hazare Trophy win is a significant achievement for Vidarbha cricket, contributing to regional pride and inspiring young cricketers across the state. The victory also underscores the importance of domestic tournaments in nurturing talent and strengthening India’s cricketing ecosystem, paving the way for future national-level stars.
4. Which state government announced a new award for non-Hindi language writers?
Answer : Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Announces New Award for Non-Hindi Language Writers
The Tamil Nadu state government has announced a new literary award for writers of non-Hindi Indian languages, reaffirming its commitment to promoting linguistic diversity and regional literature. The initiative was unveiled at the Chennai International Book Fair, a major cultural and literary event that brings together authors, publishers, and scholars from across the country.
The award aims to recognize and honor outstanding literary contributions in Indian languages other than Hindi, thereby providing a broader national platform for regional writers. By instituting this award, the Tamil Nadu government seeks to encourage creative expression, preserve India’s rich multilingual heritage, and strengthen inter-language literary exchange.
This move aligns with Tamil Nadu’s long-standing emphasis on cultural pluralism and linguistic inclusivity. The new award is expected to enhance national-level recognition for non-Hindi writers, promote translation and readership across languages, and reinforce the role of literature in fostering cultural understanding and unity in India.
5. Where did India and Japan Coast Guards conduct the joint HNS response exercise?
Answer : Mumbai
India–Japan Coast Guards Conduct Joint HNS Response Exercise in Mumbai
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) conducted a joint Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) response exercise in Mumbai, strengthening bilateral cooperation in maritime safety and environmental protection. The exercise was held onboard the Indian Coast Guard pollution control vessel ICGS Samudra Prahari.
The drill focused on enhancing preparedness and coordination for responding to maritime incidents involving chemical spills, toxic leaks, and other hazardous substances. It included simulated emergency scenarios, standard operating procedures for containment and recovery, and the use of specialized equipment for pollution response. Such exercises are crucial for minimizing environmental damage and ensuring rapid, effective action during real-world maritime emergencies.
This joint HNS response exercise reflects the growing strategic maritime partnership between India and Japan, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. By sharing expertise and best practices, both coast guards aim to strengthen regional maritime security, safeguard marine ecosystems, and uphold international standards for marine pollution response.
6. Operation Swadesh’ was launched to evacuate Indians from which country?
Answer : Iran
Operation Swadesh: India Launches Evacuation Mission from Iran
The Government of India initiated Operation Swadesh to safely evacuate Indian nationals stranded in Iran amid escalating security concerns. This strategic operation underscores India’s commitment to the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad, reflecting the country’s proactive approach in responding to international crises.
Under Operation Swadesh, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in coordination with Indian embassies and consulates, facilitated the organized return of citizens through air and land routes. Special flights and logistical support were arranged to ensure a smooth and safe evacuation, prioritizing vulnerable groups, including students, elderly citizens, and professionals.
Operation Swadesh highlights India’s ability to conduct efficient and large-scale citizen evacuation operations, leveraging diplomatic channels, inter-agency coordination, and crisis management expertise. The mission not only demonstrates India’s preparedness in handling overseas emergencies but also reinforces the government’s commitment to protecting its diaspora in challenging circumstances.
7. Where was the World Economic Forum Meeting 2026 held?
Answer : Davos
World Economic Forum 2026 Held in Davos: Global Leaders Convene
The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026 was held in Davos, Switzerland, bringing together leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society to address pressing global challenges. The annual meeting serves as a platform for dialogue on economic growth, technological innovation, climate action, and international cooperation.
This year’s forum emphasized discussions on sustainable development, digital transformation, and geopolitical stability, reflecting the interconnected nature of today’s global economy. Participants engaged in high-level panels, workshops, and bilateral meetings to explore strategies for fostering inclusive growth, resilient supply chains, and responsible investment.
Hosting the WEF in Davos reinforces Switzerland’s role as a hub for global diplomacy and policy discourse. The event also highlights the importance of collaboration between nations and industries in tackling complex challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and technological disruption, while fostering partnerships that drive innovation and sustainable progress worldwide.