Current Affairs - January 31, 2026 Current Affairs

The Supreme Court exercised its extraordinary constitutional powers under Article 142 to ensure complete justice while issuing an interim stay on the UGC Regulations, 2026. Since the earlier 2012 Regulations had already been repealed, the Court relied on Article 142 to prevent a regulatory vacuum by directing that the 2012 framework would continue until further orders. This provision empowers the Supreme Court to pass any order necessary for doing complete justice in matters before it, even if such directions go beyond existing statutory provisions, reinforcing its role as the final constitutional arbiter.

The National Commission for Women observed its 34th Foundation Day on 31st January, marking over three decades of its role as India’s apex statutory body for safeguarding women’s rights. Established in 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990, the NCW focuses on reviewing constitutional and legal safeguards, addressing grievances, and recommending policy reforms. The 34th Foundation Day event emphasized women’s health as a critical pillar of empowerment under the theme “Swasthya hi Sashaktikaran,” reinforcing the link between health, social equity, and nation-building while highlighting the Commission’s continuing relevance.

The International Solar Alliance is a multilateral initiative aimed at promoting solar energy adoption globally, particularly in developing countries. In January 2026, a major development occurred when the United States announced its withdrawal from the ISA, five years after joining in 2021. This decision is significant because the United States is one of the world’s largest economies and carbon emitters, and its exit could weaken global momentum on climate cooperation and solar energy financing. The withdrawal may also impact investor confidence and collective efforts to meet ambitious solar and climate targets set under the ISA framework.

India Energy Week 2026 was concluded in Goa, where the event highlighted India’s preparedness to manage global energy volatility while pursuing a balanced transition toward clean energy. As the host state, Goa played a significant role by showcasing its long-term renewable energy ambitions, including a roadmap to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. The state also emphasised harmonising the Green Economy with the Blue Economy, reflecting sustainable use of marine resources. Hosting IEW positioned Goa as an important platform for discussions on energy security, global cooperation, and future energy demand trends centred on emerging markets like India.

Operation Absolute Resolve refers to a reported US military operation carried out in Venezuela, notable for the alleged deployment of advanced non-lethal and electronic warfare technologies collectively referred to as the Discombobulator. These capabilities include directed energy weapons, acoustic and visual disorientation tools, electronic warfare systems, and cyber-attack mechanisms aimed at disabling enemy defenses and infrastructure. The operation highlights the growing emphasis on electronic, cyber, and non-kinetic means of warfare to achieve strategic objectives while limiting direct physical destruction and casualties.