Every news story that matters for the International Relations part of UPSC Civil Services GS2 (Polity · Governance · IR), written for the exam: why in news, background, prelims facts, a practice MCQ and a mains question. 3,361 notes so far, updated daily.
Syllabus topics covered: India's bilateral relations (2772) · Policies of other countries affecting India (208) · India & neighbourhood (174) · Regional & global groupings (QUAD, BRICS, SCO, G20...) (112) · International institutions & agencies (UN, WTO, IMF...) (89) · Indian diaspora (6)
Why in news: Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat addressed the second Global Buddhist Summit in New Delhi to emphasize India's leadership in promoting Buddhist dialogue and non-violence.
The second Global Buddhist Summit was organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Culture. The event featured the 'Light and The Lotus: Relics of The Awakened One' exhibition showcasing India's ancient Buddhist heritage.
Prelims pointers (3)
BodyInternational Buddhist Confederation (IBC) organized the second Global Buddhist Summit.
PlaceThe summit was held in New Delhi.
FactThe summit featured the 'Light and The Lotus: Relics of The Awakened One' exhibition.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss India's role as a soft power leader in promoting Buddhist principles of non-violence and compassion in the contemporary global order.
Cultural diplomacy: Leveraging ancient Buddhist heritage to foster international peace and harmony
Soft power projection: Positioning India as a moral leader through shared principles of compassion
Keywords: Soft Power · Cultural Diplomacy · Buddhist Heritage · Non-violence · Global Leadership
Why in news: EU leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, are visiting India to attend the 16th EU-India Summit scheduled for January 27, 2026.
The summit will focus on a free trade agreement, a strategic defense partnership pact, and mobility frameworks for Indian professionals. The visit occurs amidst global concerns regarding disruptions from the Trump administration's policies.
Prelims pointers (4)
PostUrsula von der Leyen: President of the European Commission
PostAntonio Costa: President of the European Council
FactThe 16th EU-India Summit is scheduled for January 27, 2026
FactSummit agenda includes a free trade agreement and a strategic defense partnership pact
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of the EU-India strategic partnership in the context of shifting global trade dynamics and defense cooperation.
Trade diversification: Reducing import reliance by establishing a comprehensive free trade agreement with the EU
Why in news: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled potential removal of 25% tariffs on India as Indian imports of Russian oil have significantly declined.
President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods in August due to India's purchase of Russian crude. Recent data shows Indian oil refinery purchases of Russian crude have fallen to their lowest point in two years.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactOPEC's share of Indian oil imports reached an 11-month high following the drop in Russian crude imports.
FactThe U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods in August 2026.
PostScott Bessent is the U.S. Treasury Secretary.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the implications of the U.S. tariff policy on India's energy security and its strategic autonomy in navigating the Russia-West geopolitical divide.
Trade-Energy Nexus: Balancing domestic energy price stability with international trade compliance and tariff pressures.
Strategic Autonomy: Navigating the friction between India's energy requirements and U.S. geopolitical pressure on Russian oil.
Market Dynamics: Impact of shifting oil sources on OPEC's market share and domestic refinery feedstock costs.
Why in news: Russia launched drone and missile strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure while simultaneously participating in the first trilateral peace talks with Ukraine and the US in Abu Dhabi.
The trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi represent the first such meeting since the 2022 full-scale invasion. Russia currently occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine, including parts of the eastern Donbas region.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactRussia occupies roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory.
PlaceAbu Dhabi hosted the first trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the US since 2022.
FactThe strikes in Kyiv left 6,000 buildings without heating due to damage to critical infrastructure.
Mains angle
Q. Analyze the geopolitical implications of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on global energy security and the challenges of mediating territorial disputes in modern warfare.
Territorial deadlock: Kremlin's demand for large land concessions vs. Ukraine's refusal to cede territory.
Infrastructure warfare: Deliberate targeting of civilian energy grids to exert pressure during diplomatic negotiations.
Diplomatic friction: Difficulty in reconciling active kinetic military operations with simultaneous trilateral peace negotiations.
Why in news: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ordered a humanitarian pardon for over 900 Indian prisoners ahead of the UAE's National Day to strengthen bilateral ties.
The UAE government will cover the financial penalties for the released inmates to facilitate their reintegration. The pardon follows a successful official visit by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed to India in January 2026.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactOver 900 Indian prisoners were released as part of a humanitarian pardon.
PlaceThe pardon coincides with the UAE's National Day celebrations.
FactThe UAE government will cover financial penalties for the released inmates.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how humanitarian gestures and diplomatic goodwill contribute to strengthening bilateral relations and protecting the interests of the Indian diaspora in the Middle East.
Diplomatic leverage: Using humanitarian pardons as a tool for soft power and bilateral goodwill
Diaspora protection: Balancing host country legal frameworks with the welfare of migrant workers
Economic integration: Addressing debt burdens of migrant workers to ensure smooth social reintegration
Why in news: Election Management Bodies (EMBs) from 42 nations met in Delhi for the IICDEM 2026 to collaborate on electoral research, training, and the creation of a co-curated Encyclopaedia of Democracies.
The International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) 2026 saw participation from 42 EMBs and Heads of Missions from 27 countries. India assumed the Chairship of the Council of Member States of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) for 2026.
Prelims pointers (3)
BodyInternational IDEA: An international institute for democracy and electoral assistance.
FactIICDEM 2026: Conference attended by delegates from 42 EMBs and 27 countries.
FactCollaborative Outputs: Agreement to develop a co-curated Encyclopaedia of Democracies of the World and digital platforms similar to ECINet.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of international cooperation in election management for strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring electoral integrity globally.
Technological standardisation: Harmonising digital platforms and electoral technology to prevent cyber-interference
Knowledge sharing: Collaborative research and capacity building to address evolving threats to electoral rolls
Institutional synergy: Leveraging International IDEA's framework to foster global democratic norms
Keywords: Electoral Integrity · Capacity Building · Democratic Governance · International Cooperation · Election Management Bodies
Why in news: The European Commission President and European Council President are visiting India for Republic Day celebrations to deepen ties and discuss a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a Security and Defence Partnership.
The visit involves Ursula von der Leyen (European Commission President) and António Luís Santos da Costa (European Council President). The primary focus areas include a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), technology cooperation, and a Security and Defence Partnership.
Prelims pointers (2)
PostUrsula von der Leyen: President of the European Commission
PostAntónio Luís Santos da Costa: President of the European Council
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement and Security and Defence Partnership can contribute to a multipolar world order and India's strategic autonomy.
Trade-Security Nexus: Leveraging market access to facilitate joint defense exercises and technology cooperation
Strategic Autonomy: Balancing relations with the US while seeking a multipolar world order with the EU
Economic Integration: Potential for unlocking technology cooperation through a formal Free Trade Agreement
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Multipolar World · Free Trade Agreement · Security and Defence Partnership · Technology Cooperation
Why in news: India and the EU are nearing a conclusion on a trade agreement after two decades of negotiations, set to be finalized during a summit in Delhi.
Key sticking points include agriculture, carbon border taxes, and non-tariff barriers. The summit will also address defense, security, information security, and a mobility framework.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactIndia-EU trade agreement negotiations have been in development for over two decades
FactSummit agenda includes defense, security, information security, and a mobility framework
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the complexities of India's trade negotiations with the EU, focusing on the balance between economic integration and environmental standards like carbon border taxes.
Why in news: PM Modi and President Lula da Silva spoke via phone on January 22, 2026, to discuss strengthening the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership and reformed multilateralism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held a phone conversation on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The discussion focused on the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership and addressing shared challenges through reformed multilateralism.
Prelims pointers (2)
FactIndia-Brazil Strategic Partnership: Key focus of the January 22, 2026, phone call between PM Modi and President Lula.
FactReformed multilateralism: A shared commitment identified by India and Brazil to address global challenges.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership in the context of promoting the interests of the Global South through reformed multilateralism.
Geopolitical alignment: Strengthening South-South cooperation to counter unipolarity
Institutional reform: Addressing structural inequities in global governance bodies
Economic synergy: Leveraging bilateral ties for shared developmental goals of the Global South
Keywords: Strategic Partnership · Reformed Multilateralism · Global South · South-South Cooperation · Bilateral Diplomacy
Why in news: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar proposed the ECINet model to international election management bodies to combat election misinformation and streamline voter services.
ECINet is a digital platform proposed to integrate over 40 existing mobile and web applications. It is designed to be accessible via desktops and smartphones, with data input restricted to authorized officials.
Prelims pointers (3)
BodyECINet: A digital tool proposed by the Election Commission of India to integrate over 40 mobile and web applications.
FactECINet platform aims to provide election-related information and enhance voter services.
PostGyanesh Kumar: Chief Election Commissioner of India.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the role of digital platforms in ensuring the integrity of democratic elections against the rising threat of misinformation.
Information integrity: Balancing the rapid dissemination of voter data with the prevention of coordinated misinformation campaigns.
Technological gatekeeping: Ensuring data security and authenticity through restricted access for authorized officials only.
Keywords: Election Integrity · Misinformation · Digital Governance · Electoral Management · Data Security
Why in news: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw responded to President Donald Trump's statement regarding a potential 'good' trade deal between the United States and India during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting.
President Donald Trump stated the U.S. would have a 'good' trade deal with India. The remarks occurred during an Indian delegation's visit to the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also present.
Prelims pointers (3)
PostAshwini Vaishnaw: Union Minister of India
PlaceWorld Economic Forum Annual Meeting: International forum where trade discussions occurred
FactThe U.S. and India are engaged in discussions regarding a bilateral trade deal
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of strengthening bilateral trade ties between India and the United States in the context of global supply chain diversification.
Trade imbalance: Addressing the persistent US trade deficit while securing market access for Indian services
Geopolitical alignment: Leveraging trade as a tool for strategic autonomy against global economic shifts
Why in news: Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen called for a 'constructive' US-NATO dialogue regarding Greenland's sovereignty to counter potential US acquisition threats and ensure Arctic security.
Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen emphasized that Arctic security is a collective NATO responsibility. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte confirmed discussions with the US aim to prevent Russia and China from gaining access to Greenland.
Prelims pointers (4)
PostMette Frederiksen: Prime Minister of Denmark
PostMark Rutte: Secretary-General of NATO
PlaceGreenland: Territory of Denmark in the Arctic region
FactNATO's strategic focus: Preventing Russia and China access to Greenland
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the geopolitical significance of the Arctic region and the implications of NATO's expanding security footprint on the sovereignty of smaller Arctic nations.
Geopolitical friction: Balancing US strategic interests against Denmark's territorial integrity
Arctic militarization: Risks of Russia-China influence vs. NATO's collective security framework
Sovereignty dilemma: Impact of superpower competition on the autonomy of smaller Arctic states
Why in news: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed India stopped buying Russian oil following a 25% tariff imposed by President Donald Trump.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated India ceased Russian oil purchases due to a 25% tariff by President Donald Trump. A proposed bill by Senator Lindsey Graham seeks a 500% tariff on secondary purchases of Russian oil.
Prelims pointers (3)
Fact25% tariff: Imposed by President Donald Trump on Russian oil imports.
Fact500% tariff: Proposed by Senator Lindsey Graham on secondary purchases of Russian oil.
BodySenate Foreign Relations Committee: Body providing near-unanimous support for the proposed 500% tariff.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how unilateral trade tariffs and geopolitical pressures influence India's energy security and its policy of strategic autonomy.
Energy security trade-off: Balancing national interest in affordable energy against international trade pressures.
Geopolitical friction: Impact of U.S. tariff policies on India's diversified energy procurement strategy.
Trade policy leverage: Use of tariffs as a tool for geopolitical alignment and secondary market regulation.
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Energy Security · Trade Tariffs · Geopolitical Alignment · National Interest
Why in news: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that the first 'Made in India' C-295 military aircraft is expected to roll out before September
The C-295 is a military aircraft being manufactured in India through collaboration with Spain. Trade between India and Spain has surpassed $8 billion in recent years, with cooperation expanding into defense, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactTrade between India and Spain has surpassed $8 billion in recent years.
PostS. Jaishankar is the External Affairs Minister of India.
S&TC-295 is a military aircraft model being manufactured under 'Made in India' initiative.
PlaceIndia is hosting the AI Impact Summit next month (February 2026).
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how the 'Make in India' initiative in the defense sector serves as a tool for strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing India's strategic autonomy.
Defense manufacturing: Transition from import-dependency to indigenous production and technology transfer
Trade diversification: Expanding bilateral economic ties beyond traditional sectors into renewable energy and infrastructure
Strategic partnership: Leveraging defense cooperation to deepen India-EU and India-Spain diplomatic relations
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Defense Manufacturing · Technology Transfer · Bilateral Trade · Make in India
Why in news: India withdrew the families and dependents of its diplomats and officials from the High Commission in Bangladesh due to a heightened security situation.
The withdrawal follows a series of incidents, including the shooting of Islamist youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi in December 2025. Indian diplomats stated that mission operations continue at full strength despite safety threats.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactIndia withdrew all family members and dependents of diplomats from its High Commission in Bangladesh.
PlaceThe High Commission is located in Bangladesh.
FactThe shooting of Islamist youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi occurred in December 2025.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by Indian diplomatic missions in volatile regions and the implications of security-driven personnel management on bilateral relations.
Diplomatic friction: Balancing mission operational continuity with the safety of non-official dependents
Security-diplomacy nexus: Impact of local extremist activities on bilateral cooperation and personnel safety
Why in news: Russian PM Mikhail Mishustin announced that India is among Russia's top trade partners, with bilateral trade reaching a record high of $68.7 billion in FY 2024–25.
Russia's trade turnover with friendly countries reached a historic high of 86%. India-Russia trade saw a five to six-fold increase over four years, reaching $68.7 billion in FY 2024–25.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactIndia-Russia trade reached $68.7 billion in the financial year 2024–25
FactRussia's trade turnover with friendly countries reached 86% of its total
FactIndia and Russia aim to reach a bilateral trade target of $100 billion by 2030
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of strengthening India-Russia trade ties in the context of Russia's shifting trade dynamics with friendly nations.
Geopolitical pivot: Russia's increasing trade reliance on friendly nations amidst Western sanctions
Trade diversification: India's role in achieving the $100 billion bilateral trade target by 2030
Why in news: India handed over the first tranche of 60 pick-up vehicles to Nepal's Home Minister to support the country's upcoming parliamentary elections.
India delivered 60 out of 650 requested vehicles and supplies to Nepal on January 20, 2026. The assistance was presented to Nepal's Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal by the Charge d' Affairs of the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactIndia committed to providing a total of 650 vehicles and supplies to Nepal.
FactThe first tranche of 60 pick-up vehicles was delivered on January 20, 2026.
PostOm Prakash Aryal is the Home Minister of Nepal.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of India's developmental and logistical support in strengthening its 'Neighbourhood First' policy towards Nepal.
Diplomatic leverage: Using logistical support to foster regional stability and democratic processes
Strategic depth: Strengthening bilateral ties to counter external influences in the Himalayan region
Keywords: Neighbourhood First · Bilateral Cooperation · Logistical Support · Democratic Stability · Regional Diplomacy
Why in news: Pakistan extended its airspace ban on all India-registered and Indian-operated aircraft, including military flights, until February 24, 2025.
The Pakistan Airports Authority issued a NOTAM extending the ban which was originally imposed in April 2024 following the Pahalgam terror attack. The ban covers both the Karachi and Lahore flight information regions (FIRs) from ground level to unlimited altitude.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactThe airspace ban applies to all India-registered aircraft and those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines/operators.
PlaceThe ban covers both the Karachi and Lahore flight information regions (FIRs) in Pakistan.
FactThe ban was originally imposed in April 2024 following the Pahalgam terror attack.
FactThe extension covers aircraft from ground level up to unlimited altitude.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how bilateral airspace restrictions and aviation security measures serve as instruments of diplomatic pressure and national security in the context of India-Pakistan relations.
Diplomatic leverage: Use of aviation corridors as a tool for non-kinetic retaliation against cross-border terrorism
Logistical friction: Impact of FIR closures on regional aviation connectivity and emergency response capabilities
Keywords: NOTAM · Flight Information Region · Cross-border terrorism · Aviation security · Bilateral relations
Why in news: U.S. Senator Steve Daines visited India to advocate for favorable pulse crop provisions in future trade deals while discussing defense and supply chain security.
Senator Steve Daines met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. The visit focused on pulse crop provisions, defense cooperation, and supply chain security. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal confirmed that sensitive agricultural issues would be excluded from the upcoming India-EU free trade agreement.
Prelims pointers (4)
PostSteve Daines: U.S. Senator
FactIndia-EU free trade agreement: Sensitive agricultural issues to be excluded
FactU.S. Ambassador to India: Sergio Gor
FactCommerce Secretary of India: Rajesh Agrawal
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the challenges and strategic importance of balancing agricultural protections with trade liberalization in India's pursuit of bilateral and multilateral Free Trade Agreements.
Trade-policy friction: Balancing domestic pulse farmer interests against U.S. demand for market access
Strategic alignment: Integrating supply chain security and defense cooperation into broader economic trade frameworks
Regulatory exclusion: Impact of excluding sensitive agricultural items from India-EU FTA on trade volume
Why in news: India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Poland's Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski engaged in a tense diplomatic exchange over Poland's renewed ties with Pakistan and EU sanctions on India-Russia trade.
The meeting took place in New Delhi on January 19, 2026. Jaishankar criticized Poland's engagement with Pakistan as fueling terrorism, while Sikorski expressed reservations regarding India's participation in Russia's Zapad military exercises.
Prelims pointers (4)
PostS. Jaishankar: India's External Affairs Minister
PostRadoslaw Sikorski: Poland's Foreign Minister
FactZapad: Russian military exercises involving India's participation
PlaceNew Delhi: Venue of the diplomatic meeting
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the complexities of India's 'multi-aligned' foreign policy in balancing relations with Russia while navigating European Union's stance on trade and security.
Geopolitical friction: Balancing Russia-India strategic ties against EU-led sanctions and trade restrictions
Security dilemma: Reconciling shared counter-terrorism goals with divergent stances on Pakistan's role
Strategic autonomy: Navigating the trade-off between Western security partnerships and Eurasian military cooperation
Why in news: The Bangladesh interim government released a report characterizing most minority-related incidents in 2025 as criminal rather than communal
The interim government reported that out of 645 incidents involving minority communities in 2025, only 71 were identified as having communal elements. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) warned that this characterization could embolden criminals.
Prelims pointers (3)
Fact71 out of 645 incidents were identified as having communal elements by the Bangladesh interim government.
BodyBHBCUC: Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council
PlaceBangladesh: Interim government reported on minority incidents in 2025.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the implications of communal violence on bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh and the role of minority protection in regional stability.
Why in news: PM Narendra Modi hosted UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in New Delhi to discuss bilateral cooperation and a target to double trade by 2032.
The leaders discussed agreements on energy security, nuclear and defense partnerships, and space and technology collaboration. A key digital initiative includes the integration of India's DigiLocker with UAE systems.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactTarget bilateral trade between India and UAE: $200 billion by 2032
S&TDigital integration: Integration of India's DigiLocker with UAE systems
BodySheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan: President of the UAE
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of India-UAE strategic partnerships in the context of India's energy security and technological integration goals.
Energy security: Diversification of supply chains through UAE's strategic position
Digital diplomacy: Interoperability of DigiLocker as a model for cross-border data governance
Trade expansion: Transitioning from commodity trade to high-tech and defense cooperation
Keywords: Strategic Partnership · Energy Security · Digital Integration · Bilateral Trade · Defense Cooperation
Why in news: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his support for UN Security Council reform, acknowledging India's contributions to the UN system.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and spokesperson Stephane Dujarric acknowledged India's importance as a supporter of multilateralism. India continues to advocate for a permanent seat in the Security Council based on its qualifications.
Prelims pointers (2)
PostAntonio Guterres: Current Secretary-General of the United Nations.
FactIndia is currently not a permanent member of the UN Security Council.
Mains angle
Q. Examine the hurdles in reforming the UN Security Council and discuss the implications of India's pursuit of a permanent seat on the global multilateral order.
Geopolitical friction: Resistance from permanent members (P5) regarding the dilution of veto power and existing privileges.
Representation gap: The tension between the 1945 power structure and the contemporary demographic/economic realities of the Global South.
Keywords: multilateralism · veto power · Global South · institutional reform · geopolitical leverage
Why in news: The US Embassy in Dhaka announced that Bangladeshi nationals must post a bond of up to $15,000 for B1/B2 visas starting January 21, 2026.
The US Department of State introduced the visa bond policy requiring financial guarantees from citizens of certain countries. Applicants must submit DHS Form I-352 and make payments via Pay.gov after receiving instructions from a consular officer.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactBond amount for B1/B2 visas for Bangladeshi nationals is up to $15,000.
FactThe new rule applies to visas issued after January 21, 2026.
FactExisting valid B1/B2 visas are not affected by the new bond policy.
FactApplicants must submit DHS Form I-352 and use Pay.gov for payments.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how visa bond policies and financial guarantees can serve as tools for managing migration and ensuring compliance with international travel regulations.
Sovereign discretion: Use of financial instruments to regulate migration flows and ensure return compliance
Economic barrier: Impact of high bond requirements on middle-income and low-income visa applicants
Keywords: Visa Bond Policy · B1/B2 Visa · Financial Guarantee · Migration Management · Consular Policy
Why in news: India is preparing a high-level delegation, including Union Ministers and Chief Ministers, to participate in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos 2026.
The WEF Annual Meeting is scheduled from January 19 to 23, 2026, in Davos. It will host over 3,000 global leaders, including the President of the United States and representatives from government, business, academia, and civil society.
Prelims pointers (4)
BodyWorld Economic Forum (WEF): An international organization hosting an annual meeting in Davos.
FactThe 2026 meeting is expected to host over 3,000 global leaders.
PostDonald Trump: President of the United States (as of the article's context).
FactIndia's delegation includes Union Ministers, six Chief Ministers, and over 100 top CEOs.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of multilateral forums like the World Economic Forum in shaping India's position as a leading global economy and a voice for the Global South.
Geopolitical leverage: Utilizing multilateral platforms to advocate for India's strategic interests and developmental priorities.
Economic diplomacy: Leveraging high-level CEO participation to attract foreign direct investment and foster global trade partnerships.
Keywords: Multilateralism · Economic Diplomacy · Global Governance · Strategic Positioning · Global South
Why in news: India declined to participate in a South Africa-led multilateral naval wargame involving several BRICS nations, characterizing the exercise as an uninstitutionalized activity.
The week-long naval wargame was held in South African waters and included navies from China, Russia, Iran, Egypt, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. India opted out of this specific exercise, preferring its regular participation in the IBSAMAR maritime exercise with Brazil and South Africa.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactIBSAMAR: A regular maritime exercise involving India, Brazil, and South Africa.
PlaceThe South Africa-led naval wargame took place in South African waters.
FactParticipating nations in the South Africa-led wargame included China, Russia, Iran, Egypt, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the significance of multilateral maritime exercises in shaping India's naval diplomacy and its strategic autonomy within the BRICS framework.
Strategic autonomy: Balancing participation in BRICS-led initiatives with independent maritime security priorities
Institutional framework: Preference for established, structured maritime cooperation over ad-hoc multilateral wargames
Why in news: The External Affairs Ministry issued advisories for Indian nationals to evacuate Iran via commercial flights due to widespread protests and a crackdown by Iranian authorities.
Indian nationals, including students, returned to New Delhi from Iran amid civil unrest. The Indian Embassy in Tehran is providing reassurance and communication to citizens while the government monitors the situation.
Prelims pointers (3)
PostIndian Embassy in Tehran: Responsible for providing consular services and safety advisories to Indian nationals in Iran
FactExternal Affairs Ministry: Issued advisories urging citizens to avoid travel to Iran and leave if possible
PlaceIran: Location of the protests and crackdown resulting in the evacuation of Indian nationals
Mains angle
Q. Examine the challenges faced by Indian diplomatic missions in ensuring the safety of citizens in volatile regions and the role of consular diplomacy in crisis management.
Communication gap: Real-time information dissemination during rapid-onset civil unrest and state crackdowns
Logistical constraints: Coordinating mass evacuations and securing commercial flight slots during regional instability
Why in news: The Supreme Court upheld the taxability of capital gains from Tiger Global's 2018 exit from Flipkart, ruling that international treaties must prioritize national interest over foreign corporate or governmental pressure.
The Supreme Court ruled that capital gains from Tiger Global's 2018 exit from Flipkart are taxable in India. Justice J.B. Pardiwala emphasized that tax treaties must include safeguards for economic sovereignty and revenue protection.
Prelims pointers (3)
FactTiger Global's exit from Flipkart occurred in 2018
PostJustice J.B. Pardiwala authored the concurring opinion in the Supreme Court ruling
S&TLimitations on benefits clauses are suggested as a safeguard in international tax treaties
Mains angle
Q. Discuss the importance of safeguarding economic sovereignty while negotiating international tax treaties to ensure the protection of a nation's revenue base.
Sovereignty vs. Global Integration: Balancing domestic revenue protection with the need for favorable international investment climates
Regulatory Safeguards: Utilizing anti-avoidance laws and limitations on benefits clauses to prevent base erosion by multinational corporations
Keywords: Economic Sovereignty · Tax Treaty Negotiation · Capital Gains Tax · Anti-avoidance Laws · National Interest
Why in news: Air India and Saudia airline signed a codeshare agreement to be effective in February 2026 to provide seamless connections between India and Saudi Arabia.
Air India (India) and Saudia (Saudi Arabia) signed a codeshare agreement to simplify travel and expand access to over 20 cities. The agreement allows passengers to book onward connections on the partner's network, benefiting business travelers, tourists, and the Indian diaspora.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactThe codeshare agreement between Air India and Saudia is scheduled to take effect in February 2026.
FactThe partnership opens up access to over 20 cities for passengers traveling between India and Saudi Arabia.
PostSaudia is the national airline of Saudi Arabia.
PostAir India is the national airline of India.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how aviation partnerships and codeshare agreements can enhance bilateral trade and strengthen the connectivity of the Indian diaspora in the Middle East.
Economic integration: Facilitating smoother movement of human capital and trade goods between India and the GCC.
Diaspora connectivity: Strengthening soft power and remittance flows through improved logistical infrastructure.
Aviation logistics: Reducing transit friction and increasing seat capacity through collaborative network management.
Keywords: bilateral cooperation · aviation logistics · codeshare agreement · connectivity · human capital
Why in news: The Indian Army's Engineer Task Force successfully constructed a 120-feet-long Bailey Bridge in Sri Lanka to restore connectivity between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts damaged by Cyclone Ditwah.
The Indian Army's Engineer Task Force built the third Bailey Bridge in the region. The bridge measures 120 feet in length and connects the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts in Sri Lanka.
Prelims pointers (4)
FactThe Bailey Bridge constructed by the Indian Army in Sri Lanka measures 120 feet in length.
PlaceThe bridge reconnects the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts in Sri Lanka.
PostThe construction was carried out by the Indian Army's Engineer Task Force.
FactThe bridge was built to repair infrastructure damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
Mains angle
Q. Discuss how India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy manifests through disaster relief and infrastructure development in the Indian Ocean Region.
Soft power projection: Utilizing HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) to strengthen bilateral ties
Strategic connectivity: Enhancing regional stability through rapid infrastructure restoration in neighboring states
Keywords: Neighbourhood First · HADR · Infrastructure Diplomacy · Bilateral Ties · Disaster Management