Current Affairs 01/02/2026
1. Who among the following Padma Shri awardees passed away at the age of 99 and was a noted educationist?
Answer : Thomas V. Kunnunkal
Thomas V. Kunnunkal: A Distinguished Educationist and Padma Shri Awardee
Thomas V. Kunnunkal was a highly respected Indian educationist whose lifelong contributions significantly shaped the field of education in India. He was widely known for his dedication to academic excellence, institutional development, and value-based education.
Honoured with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, Thomas V. Kunnunkal was recognised for his outstanding service in the field of education. Throughout his career, he played a crucial role in strengthening educational institutions, particularly in higher and technical education, and worked tirelessly to improve teaching standards and administrative efficiency.
Kunnunkal was admired not only as an able administrator but also as a visionary mentor who believed in holistic education. His efforts focused on nurturing discipline, intellectual growth, and ethical values among students. He inspired generations of learners and educators through his commitment to knowledge and social responsibility.
Passing away at the age of 99, Thomas V. Kunnunkal left behind a rich legacy that continues to influence India’s educational landscape. His life and work remain a source of inspiration for educators and policymakers alike, reflecting the profound impact one individual can have on nation-building through education.
2. Where was the first meeting of Indian and Arab foreign ministers held?
Answer : New Delhi
First Meeting of Indian and Arab Foreign Ministers Held in New Delhi
The first-ever meeting of Indian and Arab foreign ministers was held in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in India–Arab relations. This high-level diplomatic engagement reflected the growing strategic, economic, and political cooperation between India and the Arab world.
The meeting provided a formal platform to strengthen dialogue on key regional and global issues, including trade, energy security, investment, counter-terrorism, and geopolitical stability. It highlighted India’s deep historical, cultural, and economic ties with Arab nations, which have evolved into a comprehensive and forward-looking partnership in recent decades.
By hosting the inaugural meeting, New Delhi reaffirmed its role as an important partner for Arab countries and its commitment to multilateral diplomacy. The discussions emphasized mutual respect, shared interests, and collaborative approaches to addressing global challenges.
Overall, the first meeting of Indian and Arab foreign ministers laid the foundation for institutionalized cooperation, paving the way for enhanced political coordination and stronger people-to-people and economic relations in the future.
3. The 9th National Conference of BPR&D was held in which state?
Answer : Andhra Pradesh
9th National Conference of BPR&D Held in Andhra Pradesh
The 9th National Conference of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) was held in Andhra Pradesh, bringing together senior police officials, policymakers, researchers, and experts from across the country. The conference served as an important platform to deliberate on contemporary challenges in policing and internal security.
The event focused on key themes such as modernization of police forces, use of technology in policing, capacity building, forensic advancements, and best practices in law enforcement. Emphasis was also laid on community policing, cybercrime prevention, and strengthening coordination among central and state police agencies.
By hosting the conference, Andhra Pradesh reaffirmed its commitment to progressive policing reforms and innovation-driven law enforcement. The discussions and recommendations emerging from the conference aimed to enhance professionalism, efficiency, and public trust in the police system.
Overall, the 9th National Conference of BPR&D played a crucial role in shaping future strategies for research-based, citizen-centric, and technology-enabled policing in India.
4. Whose 78th death anniversary was observed on 30 January 2026?
Answer : Mahatma Gandhi
78th Death Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi Observed on 30 January 2026
The 78th death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi was observed across India on 30 January 2026, as the nation paid tribute to the Father of the Nation for his unparalleled contribution to India’s freedom struggle. The day is observed as Martyrs’ Day, commemorating Gandhi’s sacrifice and the ideals he stood for.
On this occasion, leaders and citizens remembered Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of truth (Satya), non-violence (Ahimsa), peace, and social harmony, which continues to inspire movements for justice and human rights worldwide. Tributes were paid at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, where prayers and homage ceremonies were held.
Mahatma Gandhi’s life and teachings played a decisive role in shaping India’s independence through non-violent resistance and moral leadership. His principles remain deeply relevant in addressing contemporary global challenges such as conflict resolution, social inequality, and sustainable development.
The observance of his 78th death anniversary reaffirmed India’s commitment to Gandhian values and served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of a leader whose message transcends time and borders.
5. Which state’s tableau won first place in the Republic Day 2026 parade?
Answer : Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s Tableau Wins First Place at Republic Day 2026 Parade
The tableau of Maharashtra won first place at the Republic Day 2026 parade, earning national recognition for its outstanding presentation, artistic excellence, and thematic relevance. The award highlighted the state’s ability to effectively showcase its rich cultural heritage and developmental vision on India’s most prestigious ceremonial platform.
Displayed along the Kartavya Path in New Delhi, Maharashtra’s tableau reflected a harmonious blend of tradition, history, and modern progress. Through detailed craftsmanship, vibrant visuals, and symbolic elements, the tableau conveyed a strong narrative that resonated with the values of unity, innovation, and inclusive growth.
The recognition of Maharashtra’s tableau underscored the importance of Republic Day celebrations as a platform for states to present their unique identities while contributing to the broader national story. The judging criteria emphasized creativity, clarity of theme, visual impact, and relevance to contemporary India.
Winning first place at the Republic Day 2026 parade reaffirmed Maharashtra’s cultural depth and artistic capability, reinforcing its prominent role in preserving heritage while embracing progress within the Indian Union.
6. Which became India’s first law enforcement agency to integrate Aadhaar with the Pathik app?
Answer : Ahmedabad Crime Branch
Ahmedabad Crime Branch Integrates Aadhaar with the Pathik App
The Ahmedabad Crime Branch has become India’s first law enforcement agency to integrate Aadhaar with the Pathik app, marking a significant step toward technology-driven policing and enhanced public safety. This initiative reflects the growing adoption of digital solutions to improve law enforcement efficiency and citizen services.
The integration enables more accurate identity verification, streamlined data management, and quicker access to verified information during investigations and routine policing activities. By linking Aadhaar with the Pathik app, the Crime Branch aims to reduce identity fraud, improve response mechanisms, and strengthen the overall effectiveness of crime prevention and detection.
This move also supports smart policing objectives, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and the use of advanced technology in law enforcement operations. The initiative is aligned with broader national efforts to leverage digital infrastructure for governance and public service delivery.
Overall, the Ahmedabad Crime Branch’s pioneering step sets a benchmark for other law enforcement agencies across the country, demonstrating how digital integration can enhance operational capabilities while improving trust and efficiency in the policing system.
7. According to the Economic Survey 2025-26, what is the projected real GDP growth for FY 2026?
Answer : 7.4%
Economic Survey 2025–26 Projects 7.4% Real GDP Growth for FY 2026
The Economic Survey 2025–26 has projected India’s real GDP growth at 7.4% for FY 2026, reflecting the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals and resilient economic performance. The projection underscores India’s position as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world.
According to the Survey, the anticipated growth is driven by robust domestic demand, sustained government capital expenditure, improvement in private sector investment, and a steady recovery in key sectors such as manufacturing and services. Structural reforms, digital transformation, and infrastructure development have also played a crucial role in strengthening economic momentum.
The Survey highlighted that controlled inflation, a stable financial system, and improvements in employment indicators are supporting overall economic stability. It also emphasized the importance of continued policy support, fiscal discipline, and productivity-led growth to sustain long-term economic expansion.
Overall, the projection of 7.4% real GDP growth for FY 2026 reflects confidence in India’s economic trajectory and its ability to navigate global uncertainties while maintaining strong growth prospects.