Daily Current Affairs: 26-01-2026 | Prelims Focus

Correct answer: B) The Deep-Sea Mining Code (DSMC)
Notes: As of January 26, 2026, reports indicate that the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has successfully finalized “The Deep-Sea Mining Code” (DSMC), culminating years of negotiations among member states. This landmark regulatory framework is designed to govern the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources in international waters, focusing on balancing economic development with stringent environmental protection. The DSMC establishes critical provisions for environmental impact assessments, benefit sharing, and the monitoring of deep-sea mining activities to prevent irreversible damage to fragile marine ecosystems. Its finalization is viewed as a crucial step towards responsible stewardship of ocean resources, addressing concerns raised by environmental groups and scientists about the potential ecological consequences of large-scale deep-sea extraction operations.

Correct answer: B) Advancing indigenous research and development in quantum hardware and software
Notes: The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC), officially opened in Bengaluru in early January 2026, marks a significant milestone in India’s technological ambitions. This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to accelerating indigenous research and development across various facets of quantum computing, encompassing both hardware and software innovations. Its core mission includes building robust quantum processors, developing quantum algorithms for diverse applications, and fostering a skilled workforce in this cutting-edge domain. The NQCC is expected to serve as a hub for collaborative projects between academia, industry, and government, aiming to position India as a global leader in quantum technologies and explore their potential impact on fields like medicine, materials science, and cryptography.

Correct answer: D) West Bengal
Notes: In mid-January 2026, the West Bengal government launched the “Sahaj Aahar Yojana” (Easy Meal Scheme), a new welfare initiative designed to address food insecurity among vulnerable populations. This scheme specifically targets daily wage laborers, migrant workers, and the urban poor, offering highly subsidized, nutritious meals at designated centers across major cities and industrial hubs. The initiative aims to ensure that no individual goes hungry due to economic hardship, providing access to wholesome food at an affordable price. The Sahaj Aahar Yojana reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to social welfare and poverty alleviation, building on existing food security programs with a renewed focus on accessibility and affordability for its neediest citizens.

Correct answer: B) Advanced battery storage solutions for grid stability and electric vehicles
Notes: The “Global Green Energy Summit 2026,” successfully convened in New Delhi from January 22nd to 24th, placed a significant emphasis on advanced battery storage solutions. Experts and policymakers from around the world engaged in extensive discussions regarding innovations in energy storage technologies, crucial for enhancing grid stability, integrating intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind, and accelerating the transition to electric vehicles. Key topics included improvements in lithium-ion battery efficiency, the emergence of solid-state batteries, and sustainable sourcing of raw materials. The consensus highlighted that robust and cost-effective energy storage is paramount for achieving global decarbonization targets and fostering a reliable, resilient green energy infrastructure.

Correct answer: C) Bring about convergence and integration of various government schemes for holistic rural development
Notes: In early January 2026, the Indian government announced an expanded scope for ‘Mission Antyodaya,’ reaffirming its foundational objective: to achieve holistic rural development by fostering the convergence and integration of various existing government schemes. Launched initially to ensure that all development initiatives collectively address the needs of the poorest households and villages, the expanded mission emphasizes better coordination between different ministries and departments. It focuses on leveraging resources effectively across programs such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and others, to maximize their impact on poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and livelihood generation in rural India, aiming for measurable outcomes at the Gram Panchayat level.