CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28.01.2026

🇮🇳 NATIONAL AFFAIRS

1. India-EU Landmark Free Trade Agreement

• India and the European Union (EU) finalised a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on 27 January 2026 after nearly two decades of negotiations.

• The deal is described as the “mother of all trade deals”, creating a free trade zone covering ~2 billion people and about 25% of global GDP.

• It aims to slash tariffs on most goods and services, enhance market access, and boost investment flows between India and the EU.

• It is expected to eliminate or cut tariffs on 96.6% of traded goods by value, potentially doubling EU exports to India by 2032 and saving ~€4 billion in duties annually.

• Key sectors gaining from tariff cuts include textiles, machinery, chemicals, petroleum products, and electrical equipment; sensitive sectors like dairy and cereals were kept out.

• Formal ratification processes will follow, and implementation is likely in late 2026 or 2027.

2. Odisha Statewide Bandh (General Strike)

• A statewide bandh (shutdown) was observed in Odisha on 28 January 2026 from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM led by the Navnirman Krushak Sangathan protesting paddy procurement mismanagement.

• Political support was extended by the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee.

• Essential services like hospitals and emergency providers continued functioning; however, transport and schoolsfaced disruption.

3. Republic Day Related Highlights (Post 26 Jan Ceremonies)

• India concluded 77th Republic Day celebrations marking adoption of the Constitution on 26 January 2026, with the Retreat Ceremony continuing until 29 January 2026.

• The parade featured military, cultural and technological showcases including fighter flypasts, defence exhibitions, and thematic tableaus reflecting national diversity and strength.

4. JEE Main 2026 Session-1 Admit Cards Released

• Admit cards were issued for JEE Main 2026 Session-1, with exams scheduled on 28 & 29 January 2026.

• Candidates must carry the admit card and valid photo ID for entry; the exam is a crucial gateway to NITs, IIITs, CFTIs engineering programs.

🌍 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

5. 56th World Economic Forum (Davos 2026) Outcomes

• The 56th World Economic Forum, held 19–23 January 2026 in Davos, Switzerland, focused on global cooperation amidst geopolitical tensions and trade challenges.

• Key themes included innovation, economic growth, sustainable development, and cooperation in contested global environments.

• Leaders engaged in discussions on supply chain resilience, climate challenges, and strategic economic partnerships.

6. Global Trade & Diplomacy

• The India-EU trade deal reflects strategic shifts in global economic cooperation, with key international focus on lowering trade barriers amid rising tariff tensions in major economies.

🪩 EVENTS & EXPO

7. Wings India 2026 – Asia’s Largest Aviation Expo

• The Wings India 2026 civil aviation expo commenced on 28 January 2026 at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabadand continues till 31 January 2026.

• Organized by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, AAI and FICCI, the four-day event is Asia’s largest and features global airline reps, policymakers, manufacturers, and aviation stakeholders.

• Highlights include aircraft displays from Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, UAC, aerobatic demonstrations, CEO forums, B2B/B2G meetings, and job fairs.

🏦 ECONOMIC & BUSINESS AFFAIRS

8. India-EU Trade Pact – Economic Impact

• India-EU bilateral trade, which was ~$190 billion in 2024-25, is expected to grow substantially due to tariff reductions and expanded services access.

• Tariff cuts span goods such as wine, vehicles, machinery, and services, enhancing global competitiveness for Indian exports.

⚡ SCIENCE & ASTROLOGY

9. Astrological Transit – Mars in Shravana Nakshatra

• On 28 January 2026, Mars transited into Shravana Nakshatra in Capricorn, an important astrological event considered to influence focus, network building, self-growth, and interpersonal communication until 14 February 2026.

🏅 AWARDS & HONOURS

10. 2026 Padma Awards Quick Facts

• Veteran actor Dharmendra Singh Deol was posthumously honoured with the Padma Vibhushan 2026.

• Cricketer Rohit Sharma received the Padma Shri 2026.

• Former Kerala CM V.S. Achuthanandan was also awarded Padma Vibhushan.

• A total of 13 Padma Bhushan awards were conferred.

🏆 SPORTS UPDATES

11. 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup – Preparations

• The 10th ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is scheduled from 7 February to 8 March 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka with 20 teams and 55 matches.

• India enters as defending champions and warm-ups started in early February.

📌 QUICK FACTS & ONE-LINERS

• Odisha Bandh impacted transport and banking activities during protest hours.

• Wings India 2026 expected >100,000 visitors with 500+ meetings.

• JEE Main 2026 Session-1 competitive exam underway with admit card release on 27 Jan.

• Mars transit into Shravana offers astrological significance to planners and investors.