Daily Current Affairs: 19-01-2026 | Prelims Focus

Correct answer: C
Notes: At the ‘Global Quantum Summit 2026’, a consortium of leading research institutions and tech giants unveiled a monumental achievement in quantum computing. They successfully demonstrated fault-tolerant quantum operations on a 64-qubit system, achieving an unprecedented error rate below 0.01%. This breakthrough is considered a pivotal step towards building scalable and reliable universal quantum computers. Previously, maintaining coherence and correcting errors efficiently in larger qubit systems was a major hurdle, often leading to unmanageable error propagation. This advancement promises to accelerate the development of practical quantum applications in fields like drug discovery, material science, and cryptography, moving quantum computing closer to commercial viability. The innovation involved novel error-correcting codes and architectural refinements.

Correct answer: C
Notes: The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) recently achieved a significant milestone by ratifying its new “Global Digital Trade Protocol.” This protocol aims to establish common rules and standards for digital trade, including cross-border data flows, online consumer protection, and cybersecurity, among its thirteen member countries. The ratification is seen as a crucial step towards fostering a more predictable and open digital economy within the Indo-Pacific region, reducing barriers for businesses, and enhancing regional economic integration. It specifically addresses concerns regarding data localization and ensures greater interoperability for digital services, setting a precedent for future global digital trade agreements. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the digital economy’s importance.

Correct answer: B
Notes: The Indian government’s newly launched ‘Mission Harit Kranti 2.0’ places a strong emphasis on enhancing climate-resilient agriculture and promoting sustainable water management techniques. Recognizing the increasing impact of climate change on agricultural productivity, the mission aims to equip farmers with adaptive strategies, improve drought-resistant crop varieties, and implement efficient irrigation systems like micro-irrigation. It also encourages the adoption of practices that improve soil health and reduce dependency on chemical inputs. The initiative includes training programs for farmers and financial incentives for adopting environmentally friendly farming methods. This targeted approach seeks to ensure food security while mitigating the ecological footprint of agriculture across the country, building on the successes of previous green revolution efforts.

Correct answer: C
Notes: The Indian Navy recently commissioned the INS Surat, the fourth destroyer of the Project 15B (Visakhapatnam-class) guided-missile destroyers, into its fleet. Built indigenously by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, INS Surat marks a significant stride in India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative in defence manufacturing. The warship is equipped with advanced stealth features, state-of-the-art weapons systems, and sensors, including BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Barak-8 long-range surface-to-air missiles. Its induction significantly enhances the Indian Navy’s combat prowess and blue-water capabilities, playing a crucial role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests and projecting power across the Indo-Pacific region. This commissioning underscores India’s growing naval strength.

Correct answer: A
Notes: Puducherry, the charming coastal city in South India, was recently conferred the prestigious ‘UNESCO World Heritage City’ status. This recognition is primarily attributed to its remarkably well-preserved colonial-era architecture, a unique blend of French and Tamil influences, and its distinct urban planning. The city’s grid-patterned streets, heritage buildings, spiritual ambiance, and cultural fusion were highlighted as key factors. UNESCO praised Puducherry for maintaining its living heritage while adapting to modern development. This designation is expected to boost tourism, enhance conservation efforts, and further establish Puducherry as a global cultural landmark, celebrating its rich history and architectural grandeur. It underscores India’s commitment to preserving its diverse cultural legacy.