Current Affairs 13/01/2026
1. How many jobs have been generated through PMMSY and FIDF schemes?
Answer : 74.66 lakh
Employment Generation under PMMSY and FIDF Schemes
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) are key initiatives of the Government of India aimed at transforming the fisheries sector into a robust, sustainable, and employment-intensive industry.
Since their implementation, these schemes have collectively generated 74.66 lakh employment opportunities across the country. Job creation has occurred at multiple levels of the fisheries value chain, including fish harvesting, aquaculture, hatcheries, processing units, cold storage facilities, transportation, and marketing infrastructure.
PMMSY focuses on enhancing fish production and productivity, modernizing fisheries infrastructure, and improving the socio-economic conditions of fishers and fish farmers. Complementing this, FIDF supports the creation of critical infrastructure such as fishing harbours, fish landing centres, and post-harvest facilities, thereby enabling long-term growth and private sector participation.
The significant employment generation under these schemes has strengthened rural and coastal economies, improved livelihoods, and contributed to food security and nutritional availability. Together, PMMSY and FIDF have emerged as vital drivers of inclusive growth and sustainable development within India’s fisheries sector.
2. Who became the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court?
Answer : Justice Revati Mohite Dere
Justice Revati Mohite Dere: First Woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court
Justice Revati Mohite Dere created history by becoming the first woman Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court, marking a significant milestone in the Indian judiciary. Her appointment represents an important step forward in promoting gender inclusivity and diversity in the higher judicial system of India.
A distinguished jurist, Justice Revati Mohite Dere has served the judiciary with integrity and competence, earning recognition for her balanced judgments and strong commitment to constitutional values. Prior to her elevation as Chief Justice, she gained extensive experience in judicial administration and adjudication, contributing meaningfully to the development of legal jurisprudence.
Her leadership is expected to further strengthen the efficiency and credibility of the Meghalaya High Court, while also inspiring greater participation of women in the legal profession. The appointment underscores the evolving nature of India’s judiciary, where merit and experience continue to guide progress toward inclusive governance and justice delivery.
Justice Revati Mohite Dere’s elevation is widely regarded as a landmark moment, reinforcing the principle of equal opportunity and advancing the cause of gender representation in judicial leadership.
3. What is the new name of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary?
Answer : Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Renamed as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary
The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary has been officially renamed as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, reflecting its unique ecological significance and rich biodiversity. The renaming highlights the sanctuary’s identity as one of India’s most important habitats for butterfly conservation.
Located in Kerala, the sanctuary is renowned for hosting a remarkable variety of butterfly species, making it a major attraction for researchers, nature enthusiasts, and eco-tourists. The new name emphasizes focused conservation efforts aimed at protecting butterflies and their natural ecosystems, while also promoting environmental awareness.
By designating the area as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, authorities aim to strengthen biodiversity conservation, encourage sustainable tourism, and enhance scientific research related to insects and forest ecology. The move also underscores Kerala’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and promoting specialized wildlife conservation initiatives.
The renaming of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is thus seen as a strategic step toward recognizing and safeguarding the region’s exceptional butterfly diversity and ecological importance.
4. Where has APEDA opened its regional office in Chhattisgarh?
Answer : Raipur
APEDA Opens Regional Office in Raipur, Chhattisgarh
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has established its regional office in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, marking a significant step toward strengthening agricultural exports from the central Indian region. The initiative is aimed at enhancing export facilitation, improving market access, and supporting agri-based entrepreneurs and farmer-producer organizations.
The Raipur regional office will serve as a dedicated support hub for exporters of agricultural and processed food products, including rice, pulses, millets, fruits, vegetables, and value-added food items. By providing technical guidance, quality certification support, and export-oriented training, APEDA aims to improve compliance with international standards and boost competitiveness in global markets.
Chhattisgarh, known for its strong agricultural base, particularly in paddy cultivation and forest-based produce, is expected to benefit significantly from the presence of the APEDA office. The move will also help integrate local farmers with global value chains, promote infrastructure development, and increase export volumes.
Overall, the opening of the APEDA regional office in Raipur reflects the government’s commitment to decentralizing export promotion efforts and unlocking the export potential of agriculturally rich states like Chhattisgarh.
5. Agreements between India and Germany were signed in which sectors?
Answer : Skills, Security and Clean Energy
India–Germany Agreements Strengthen Cooperation in Key Strategic Sectors
India and Germany have signed a series of important agreements aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation across critical development and strategic domains. The agreements focus on three major sectors: Skills, Security, and Clean Energy, reflecting the shared priorities of both nations in addressing global and domestic challenges.
In the skills sector, the agreements emphasize vocational training, skill development, and workforce mobility. These initiatives are designed to enhance employability, promote knowledge exchange, and support India’s growing demand for skilled professionals while addressing workforce requirements in Germany.
Cooperation in the security sector focuses on strengthening strategic dialogue, enhancing collaboration on regional and global security issues, and promoting stability through shared democratic values and rule-based international order. This partnership underlines mutual commitment to peace, cybersecurity, and defense cooperation.
The clean energy sector forms a cornerstone of India–Germany relations, with agreements supporting renewable energy, green hydrogen, climate-friendly technologies, and sustainable development. Germany’s technical expertise and financial support complement India’s clean energy transition and climate action goals.
Overall, these agreements reinforce the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Germany, promoting sustainable growth, technological advancement, and long-term cooperation across vital sectors.
6. Shrinivas Dempo received a civilian award from which country?
Answer : Italy
Shrinivas Dempo Conferred Civilian Award by Italy
Renowned Indian industrialist and sports administrator Shrinivas Dempo has been honoured with a prestigious civilian award by Italy, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to strengthening bilateral relations between India and Italy. The award reflects Italy’s appreciation of his sustained efforts in promoting economic, cultural, and institutional cooperation between the two countries.
Shrinivas Dempo, a key figure of the Dempo Group, has played a significant role in enhancing trade and industrial collaboration, particularly in sectors such as mining, manufacturing, and shipping. Beyond business, his contributions to sports administration, especially Indian football, have earned him national and international recognition, helping elevate India’s sporting profile globally.
The civilian honour underscores the importance of people-to-people engagement in international diplomacy and highlights the role of industry leaders in fostering cross-border partnerships. Italy’s recognition of Shrinivas Dempo also signifies the growing strength of India–Italy relations, built on shared values, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.
Overall, the award stands as a testament to Shrinivas Dempo’s multifaceted contributions and his enduring commitment to advancing international collaboration and mutual understanding.
7. On which National Highway did NHAI set four Guinness World Records?
Answer : NH-544G
NHAI Sets Four Guinness World Records on NH-544G
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) achieved a major milestone in infrastructure development by setting four Guinness World Records on National Highway NH-544G. The records were established during the construction of the Bengaluru–Vijayawada Expressway, showcasing India’s growing expertise in large-scale and high-speed highway construction.
The achievement reflects NHAI’s adoption of advanced engineering techniques, modern construction equipment, and efficient project management practices. Setting multiple world records on a single national highway highlights the authority’s focus on speed, quality, and innovation in road infrastructure development.
NH-544G plays a crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity, reducing travel time, and supporting economic growth by facilitating smoother movement of goods and passengers. The record-setting accomplishment further strengthens India’s global reputation in the field of infrastructure and demonstrates the country’s capability to execute complex projects at an unprecedented scale.
Overall, the Guinness World Records on NH-544G stand as a testament to NHAI’s commitment to excellence, technological advancement, and the transformation of India’s national highway network.