Daily Current Affairs and GK for Competitive Exams 2026
Staying updated with daily current affairs and GK is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations like UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, and State PCS in 2026. This article provides a concise, exam-focused overview of recent developments in India and globally, covering polity, economy, defense, science, and international relations. These updates are designed to help aspirants build a strong foundation for both prelims and mains.
India: Major Updates for Exam Preparation
Defense and Security
India’s defense sector has seen significant advancements in 2025, reflecting its focus on self-reliance. The Indian Navy’s guided missile destroyer successfully conducted a precision strike against a sea-skimming target in April 2025, showcasing cutting-edge naval capabilities. Additionally, the indigenous ‘Virupaaksha’ radar system is being developed for Sukhoi-30 MKI jets, enhancing air combat strength. The rollout of the first domestically manufactured C295 aircraft marks a milestone in India’s defense production, with full production expected by late 2026.
Economy and Policy
Economic indicators in 2025 highlight both growth and challenges. The generation of 8.8 crore e-way bills in December 2024 signals robust trade activity. However, the Indian rupee touched a historic low of ₹86 against the US dollar in January 2025, reflecting global economic pressures. On the policy front, the Reserve Bank of India introduced a ₹2 lakh cap on penalties for Foreign Exchange Management Act violations, streamlining regulations. The government’s push for simultaneous elections under the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative is also a key topic, with ongoing discussions in 2025.
Social and Cultural Milestones
The 2025 Padma Awards honored 139 individuals for their contributions across diverse fields, making it a notable topic for exams. In sports, four athletes, including chess prodigy D. Gukesh and shooter Manu Bhaker, were selected for the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Literary achievements were recognized through the Sahitya Akademi Awards 2024, with Gagan Gill (Hindi) and Easterine Kire (English) among the recipients. These awards are often asked in GK sections.
Environment and Infrastructure
Conservation efforts gained momentum with the sighting of twelve critically endangered Great Indian Bustards in Rajasthan and the launch of a dolphin tagging project in Assam to protect Gangetic dolphins. India also introduced a green steel production framework to curb carbon emissions. Infrastructure developments include the upcoming Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, set to open in 2025, and the New Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, enhancing connectivity.
Appointments and Governance
Key appointments in 2025 include Dr. Arvind Panagariya as Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, tasked with shaping tax devolution for 2026–31, and V. Narayanan as ISRO’s new chief. A major bureaucratic reshuffle in April 2025 saw new secretaries appointed across ministries, a topic relevant for polity questions.
World: Global Events to Know
International Relations
India strengthened its global ties through a strategic partnership with Italy, focusing on trade and clean energy via the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. India also took a leadership role in the International Big Cat Alliance, committing ₹150 crore for global big cat conservation. Meanwhile, global tensions, such as Iran’s unveiling of advanced ballistic missiles, are critical for international relations questions.
Economy and Environment
India is poised to lead as the fastest-growing aviation market by 2026, driven by policies like UDAN. Globally, the 2024 Global Water Monitor Report highlighted climate-driven water cycle disruptions, relevant to environmental questions. The COP29 summit in Baku (November 2024) emphasized climate finance and carbon markets, with India advocating for climate equity.
Science and Technology
Scientific breakthroughs include the Indian Institute of Astrophysics’ study on solar helium levels and China’s development of a deep-sea radar for defense. The China-Russia collaboration on a lunar nuclear power plant for the International Lunar Research Station is another key topic for science and technology sections.
How to Use Daily Current Affairs and GK for Exam Success
To excel in competitive exams, integrate daily current affairs and GK into your study routine:
- Read Regularly: Follow trusted sources for daily updates and maintain concise notes linking current events to static syllabus topics (e.g., Finance Commission’s role with new appointments).
- Practice Quizzes: Use online platforms to test your knowledge and improve retention.
- Focus on Interdisciplinary Topics: Topics like climate change, defense, and economic policies often overlap with static portions, making them high-yield for exams.
By staying informed and practicing consistently, aspirants can confidently tackle the dynamic daily current affairs and GK sections of competitive exams in 2026.
For Daily Current Affairs and GK, visit
- Press Information Bureau – Official government updates for authentic information.
Also Read: India’s Doppler Weather Radar Network: Boosting Disaster Preparedness by 2026