Current Affairs - January 26, 2026 Current Affairs

Punjab has launched its first Dog Sanctuary in Ludhiana as a pilot initiative aimed at improving animal welfare while addressing public safety concerns related to stray dogs. The sanctuary is designed to manage stray dog populations in a humane and structured manner, following Supreme Court guidelines and Animal Birth Control rules. The initiative focuses on sheltering, sterilisation, vaccination, and controlled management to reduce dog bite incidents in urban areas. As a pilot project, it will help assess effectiveness before being replicated across other districts, creating a sustainable and legally compliant model for stray animal management.

International Customs Day is celebrated every year on January 26 to recognize the crucial role of customs authorities in facilitating global trade, ensuring border security, and supporting economic growth. The date commemorates the first session of the Customs Cooperation Council (now World Customs Organization) held on 26 January 1953 in Brussels. The day raises awareness about customs procedures, promotes cooperation among nations, and honours customs officials for maintaining lawful trade and secure supply chains. Activities include seminars, workshops, and recognition programs to highlight efficiency, security, and international collaboration in customs administration.

Andaman has become the site of India’s first open-sea marine fish farming project, marking a significant shift from traditional coastal aquaculture to open-ocean farming. The pilot initiative focuses on cultivating marine finfish and seaweed using specially designed cages capable of withstanding strong ocean currents. Implemented with the support of scientific institutions and local administration, the project aims to enhance the livelihoods of fishing communities while promoting the sustainable use of marine resources. It aligns with India’s broader Blue Economy vision by combining marine science, innovation, and economic development to responsibly harness ocean potential.

India secured the sixth position in the Asia Manufacturing Index 2026, placing it in the middle among 11 Asian manufacturing economies. The index evaluates countries on multiple pillars such as economic strength, infrastructure quality, workforce readiness, innovation capacity, and trade environment. India’s ranking reflects steady progress supported by a large domestic market and improving infrastructure, but it also highlights the need for faster reforms and stronger execution. As competition intensifies across Asia, enhancing ease of doing business, logistics efficiency, skills development, and technological adoption will be essential for India to improve its manufacturing competitiveness.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has been conferred with the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, recognising extraordinary courage, leadership, and devotion to duty. This award is given for acts of valour and self-sacrifice away from the battlefield. The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, approved this along with gallantry awards for 70 other armed forces personnel. Shukla’s award highlights his exceptional contribution to India’s aerospace and defence achievements and serves as an inspiration for bravery, leadership, and service to the nation.

Satyaki Ghosh has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Raymond Lifestyle as part of a strategic leadership decision to strengthen the company’s consumer and lifestyle business. With more than 25 years of experience across FMCG, textiles and retail sectors, he brings deep expertise in managing large brands and operations in both B2B and B2C environments. His previous leadership roles at Aditya Birla Group, Grasim Industries, and global companies such as L’Oréal and PepsiCo equip him to drive growth, innovation and competitiveness in Raymond Lifestyle’s evolving market landscape.