Daily Current Affairs: 18-01-2026 | Prelims Focus

Correct answer: C. India
Notes: The “Vyom Mitra” mission, a significant stride in autonomous space repair technology, is spearheaded by India’s space agency, ISRO. This ambitious program focuses on developing and deploying advanced robotic systems capable of performing intricate maintenance, repair, and assembly tasks in orbit without direct human intervention. The recent announcement on January 18, 2026, highlighted its successful testing in simulating complex repair scenarios on a defunct satellite model, demonstrating its potential to extend the operational life of satellites and reduce space debris. This initiative places India at the forefront of sustainable space exploration, enhancing national capabilities and contributing to global space infrastructure resilience.

Correct answer: B. Establishing ethical guidelines and regulatory standards for AI development and deployment.
Notes: The “Global AI Governance Framework” (GAGF), officially adopted by a consortium of leading nations on January 18, 2026, represents a landmark international effort to address the burgeoning challenges posed by advanced artificial intelligence. Its core objective is to establish a unified set of ethical guidelines, regulatory standards, and best practices for the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies worldwide. The framework specifically aims to mitigate risks such as algorithmic bias, privacy invasion, misuse of AI, and ensures transparency and accountability. This collaborative initiative is crucial for fostering public trust in AI while harnessing its transformative potential for societal good on a global scale.

Correct answer: B. Arctic Ice Caps
Notes: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a comprehensive report on January 18, 2026, highlighting the severe and escalating problem of microplastic accumulation, particularly within the Arctic Ice Caps. The report detailed how these tiny plastic fragments, transported by ocean currents and atmospheric circulation, are becoming entrapped in the freezing ice, posing a significant threat to the fragile Arctic ecosystem. This phenomenon not well only impacts marine life but also raises concerns about accelerated ice melt due to altered albedo, and the potential release of concentrated microplastics into global waters as the ice thaws, presenting novel challenges for environmental policy and mitigation strategies.

Correct answer: C. Affordable housing solutions for low-income urban groups.
Notes: The Indian government, on January 18, 2026, unveiled the ‘PM Aashray Yojana’, a flagship scheme designed to provide affordable housing solutions specifically for low-income and economically weaker sections in urban areas. This initiative aims to address the critical housing shortage by offering financial assistance, interest subsidies, and promoting the construction of environmentally sustainable and cost-effective homes. The scheme builds upon previous efforts to ensure “Housing for All” and emphasizes public-private partnerships to expedite project implementation. Its launch underscores the government’s commitment to improving living standards and reducing urban poverty by ensuring access to dignified and secure shelter for all eligible citizens.

Correct answer: B. Youth participation in a diverse range of sports, education, and cultural exchange.
Notes: India’s successful bid to host the “Global Youth Games” in 2030, announced on January 18, 2026, marks a significant milestone in promoting holistic youth development. This multi-faceted international event is primarily designed not just for athletic competition, but also to foster youth participation in a wide array of educational, cultural, and leadership exchange programs. It aims to unite young people from across the globe, encouraging mutual understanding, healthy competition, and the development of future leaders. Hosting these games will significantly boost India’s sports infrastructure, tourism, and cultural diplomacy, creating a lasting legacy for its youth and enhancing its global standing as a hub for international events.