Latest Current Affairs Topics for Competitive Exams 2026

National and International Events for UPSC, SSC, Banking & Other Competitive Exams

1. Gaza-Israel Ceasefire Agreement (January 2026)

A historic ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect in January 2026, ending months of intense conflict. The agreement facilitated the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners and allowed humanitarian aid into Gaza. This development marks a significant diplomatic achievement in Middle Eastern peace efforts, though tensions remain fragile with both sides reporting violations.

2. Donald Trump’s Second Presidential Term (January 2026)

Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2026, becoming only the second person elected to non-consecutive presidential terms. His administration immediately implemented aggressive trade policies, including reciprocal tariffs on trading partners, which generated significant revenue but sparked global trade tensions and concerns about inflation.

3. DeepSeek AI Revolution (January 2026)

Chinese AI firm DeepSeek released an advanced chatbot in January 2026 that matched leading U.S. AI models without using advanced Nvidia chips. This breakthrough challenged American technological dominance and triggered a massive market reaction, with Nvidia losing nearly $600 billion in value—the largest single-day drop in U.S. stock market history, reshaping the global artificial intelligence landscape.

4. South Korea Presidential Crisis (December 2025-January 2026)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was successfully arrested in January 2026 after declaring martial law in December 2025, which led to his impeachment. This constitutional crisis highlighted tensions between executive power and democratic institutions in South Korea, drawing international attention to political stability in one of Asia’s major democracies and key U.S. allies in the region.

5. Syria’s Political Transformation (2025)

Following the fall of the Assad regime, Ahmed al-Sharaa was appointed president of Syria, marking a new chapter after decades of authoritarian rule. Over 782,000 Syrian refugees have returned home in the past year, signalling cautious optimism about the country’s future. The international community closely monitors Syria’s transition toward potential democratic governance and reconstruction efforts.

6. Australia’s Social Media Ban for Minors (December 2025)

Australia implemented a groundbreaking social media ban for users under 16 years old in December 2025, targeting platforms including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok. This legislation represents the world’s strictest approach to protecting children online, sparking global debate about digital safety, parental rights, and the role of government in regulating social media access for minors.

7. Bondi Beach Terrorist Attack (December 2025)

A father-son duo opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach in December 2025, killing 15 people and injuring over 40. Motivated by Islamic State ideology, this incident became Australia’s deadliest terrorist attack in history. The tragedy prompted nationwide mourning and renewed discussions about counterterrorism measures, gun control legislation, and community security protocols.

8. Russia-Ukraine War Developments (2025)

The Russia-Ukraine conflict entered its fourth year with intensified missile campaigns and heavy casualties on both sides. Russia advanced minimally in Ukrainian territory despite losing approximately 1,000 soldiers daily. Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb showcased innovative drone warfare, striking Russian air bases deep within enemy territory, demonstrating evolving military tactics in modern warfare and technological innovation.

9. U.S.-China Trade War Escalation (2025)

China announced export controls and increased tariffs on American imports in response to Trump’s aggressive tariff policies. The trade dispute temporarily escalated to triple-digit tariff percentages before a mid-year truce eased pressure on global markets. These economic tensions significantly impacted international supply chains, consumer prices, and bilateral diplomatic relations between the world’s two largest economies.

10. Global Ocean Treaty Ratification (December 2025)

Seventy-nine nations ratified the Global Ocean Treaty by December 2025, surpassing the 60 required for implementation. Set to enter force in 2026, this treaty provides legal framework for protecting international waters beyond national boundaries. Currently, only 1% of international waters are protected; this agreement could establish the largest network of ocean sanctuaries in history.

11. India-Australia Economic Cooperation (January 2026)

Australia eliminated customs duties on 100% of its tariff lines for Indian exports from January 1, 2026, marking a milestone under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. This zero-tariff regime significantly boosts bilateral trade, providing Indian exporters unprecedented market access and strengthening strategic economic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

12. Thailand’s Marriage Equality Milestone (January 2026)

Thailand legalised same-sex marriage in January 2026, becoming the first Southeast Asian nation to do so. This historic decision, celebrated with mass wedding ceremonies, represents a significant advancement in LGBTQ+ rights in a traditionally conservative region. The move positions Thailand as a progressive leader, potentially influencing neighbouring countries’ approaches to marriage equality and civil rights.

13. Pope Leo XIV’s Election (May 2025)

Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected Pope, taking the name Leo XIV and becoming the first American to head the Catholic Church. This historic election marks a significant shift in the Catholic Church’s global leadership, bringing fresh perspectives on contemporary issues, including social justice, interfaith dialogue, and the Church’s role in addressing modern challenges facing global communities.

14. Denmark’s Climate Leadership (2025)

Denmark committed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 82% compared to 1990 levels over the next decade, surpassing the UK’s previous global leadership position. Government reports indicate Denmark is on track to meet its 2030 target of 70% reduction, establishing itself as a model for ambitious climate action and demonstrating that aggressive emission targets are achievable.

15. Padma Awards 2025 (India)

Seven individuals were honoured with the Padma Vibhushan Award in 2025, India’s second-highest civilian honour. The Padma Awards recognise exceptional contributions to various fields, including art, literature, science, sports, and public service. These prestigious honours celebrate individuals who have significantly impacted Indian society through their dedication, innovation, and exemplary service to the nation.

16. SAKSHAM Anti-Drone System (India, 2025)

The Indian Army launched the indigenous SAKSHAM Anti-Drone Grid, developed in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Ghaziabad. This advanced defense system strengthens India’s capability to counter aerial threats, particularly drone-based attacks. The development showcases India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology and commitment to indigenous manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative for strategic autonomy.

17. Charlie Kirk Assassination (September 2025)

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated at a campus event in Utah in September 2025. His death triggered nationwide political discourse about security, political polarisation, and free speech on college campuses. Following the tragedy, Turning Point USA received over 121,000 requests for new chapters, demonstrating the organisation’s continued influence despite this devastating loss.

18. G20 Summit 2025

South Africa hosted the G20 Summit in 2025, bringing together leaders from the world’s major economies to address pressing global challenges, including economic recovery, climate change, sustainable development, and international security. The summit focused on strengthening multilateral cooperation, promoting inclusive growth, and addressing inequalities exacerbated by recent global crises affecting developing nations disproportionately.

19. 22nd ASEAN-India Summit

The 22nd ASEAN-India Summit was held in Thailand, reinforcing strategic partnerships between India and Southeast Asian nations. Discussions centerd on economic cooperation, maritime security, digital transformation, and regional stability. The summit emphasised India’s Act East Policy and ASEAN’s importance in India’s foreign policy framework, strengthening ties in trade, defense, and cultural exchanges.

20. Artificial Intelligence and Global Competition (2025)

Artificial intelligence emerged as the defining technological battleground between the United States and China. Both nations invested heavily in AI development, recognising its strategic importance for economic competitiveness and national security. The AI race influenced semiconductor policy, export controls, and technology partnerships, with countries worldwide positioning themselves in this transformative technological revolution, reshaping industries globally.

21. U.S. Government Shutdown (October-November 2025)

The United States experienced its longest government shutdown in history, lasting 43 days from October through November 2025. The impasse centered on healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, with federal workers going without pay for weeks. The crisis highlighted deep political divisions and the challenges of governance in a polarised environment, affecting essential government services nationwide.

22. Inter Miami CF MLS Cup Victory (December 2025)

Inter Miami CF, led by legendary player Lionel Messi, won the club’s first Major League Soccer Cup in December 2025. This historic victory elevated American soccer’s global profile and demonstrated Messi’s transformative impact on MLS. The championship sparked renewed interest in soccer across the United States and strengthened the league’s competitiveness on the international stage.

23. Russia’s Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile Test (2025)

Russia tested the world’s first nuclear-powered cruise missile, Burevestnik, demonstrating advanced military capabilities that raised international security concerns. This development in strategic weaponry has implications for global military balance, arms control negotiations, and nuclear deterrence strategies. The test prompted discussions about new arms races and the need for updated international treaties governing advanced weapons.

24. UNESCO’s Virtual Museum of Stolen Cultural Objects (2025)

UNESCO launched a new Virtual Museum of Stolen Cultural Objects, creating a digital platform to document and track cultural heritage artifacts illegally removed from their countries of origin. This initiative aids in repatriation efforts, raises awareness about cultural property theft, and preserves historical records digitally. The museum serves as a crucial tool for combating illicit trafficking of cultural treasures.

25. Biodiversity Funding Agreement (March 2025)

Nations agreed in March 2025 to mobilise at least $200 billion per year by 2030 to help developing countries conserve biodiversity. The commitment, hammered out at the COP16 biodiversity conference in Rome, represents unprecedented international cooperation in protecting ecosystems. This funding mechanism aims to prevent species extinction, preserve habitats, and support sustainable development in biodiversity-rich developing nations.