In Current Affairs for 15 January 2026, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.
Defence Current Affairs 15 January 2026
Indian Army Day 2026 was observed on January 15, celebrating the valor, discipline, and dedication of the soldiers who protect the nation under the most demanding conditions. On this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the Indian Army, describing it as a symbol of selfless service and unwavering determination. He said the nation salutes the courage and firm resolve of the soldiers who safeguard India’s sovereignty and inspire confidence among citizens.
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister highlighted that Indian soldiers serve with a deep sense of duty even in extreme and challenging environments, earning gratitude and respect from people across the country.
Significance of Indian Army Day
Army Day is commemorated every year on January 15 to mark a historic moment in 1949 when Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa took over as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, succeeding British General Sir F. R. R. Bucher. This event symbolized India’s military leadership transitioning fully into Indian hands after independence.
About the Indian Army
The Indian Army, the land-based arm of the Indian Armed Forces, is among the largest standing armies in the world. It plays a crucial role in protecting the country’s unity, territorial integrity, and national security.
- Founded: 1 April 1895
- Modern Indian Army: Established on 15 August 1947
- Motto: Service Before Self
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Supreme Commander: President of India
Roles and Responsibilities
The Indian Army performs multiple critical functions, including defending the nation against external threats, safeguarding borders, assisting civil authorities during internal security challenges, and providing humanitarian relief during natural disasters. It also actively contributes to United Nations peacekeeping missions, reinforcing India’s global commitment to peace.
Command Structure and Regiments
The Army operates through seven operational commands and one training command. Its rich regimental system—such as the Punjab Regiment, Rajput Regiment, Gorkha Rifles, Sikh Regiment, and Jat Regiment—reflects a proud legacy of bravery and sacrifice.
Modernisation and Technology
To remain battle-ready, the Indian Army is undergoing continuous modernization. This includes the induction of advanced weapons, indigenous defence equipment under the Make in India initiative, and the growing use of drones, artificial intelligence, and cyber technologies.
Defence Developments: Rafale Jets Manufacturing in India
In a major boost to defence indigenisation, around 80% of the proposed 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force are planned to be manufactured in India. The deal includes the transfer of several manufacturing facilities from France and discussions on setting up Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) infrastructure within the country.
With high serviceability levels of nearly 90%, Rafale aircraft have been assessed as well-suited for India’s defence needs. There is also potential for Indian facilities to become regional hubs for servicing Rafale and other Dassault aircraft.
Leadership Changes in ITBP and BSF
Senior IPS officer Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor has been appointed as the new Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). He succeeds Praveen Kumar, who has taken charge as the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF). These appointments reflect continuity and experience in India’s border management leadership.
Japan–Philippines Defence Pact Amid Regional Tensions
Amid rising security concerns linked to China’s growing assertiveness, Japan and the Philippines signed a defence cooperation agreement to strengthen logistical support during joint military exercises. The pact also enhances cooperation in disaster response and peacekeeping missions.
The agreement represents a significant step toward deepening security ties between the two nations, both of which face territorial challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Pakistan’s Lobbying to Avoid FATF Grey List
Recent disclosures under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) revealed that Pakistan hired lobbying firms in Washington to seek international support to avoid being placed on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. Despite these efforts, experts remain skeptical, citing Pakistan’s long-standing issues related to terror financing and lack of sustained corrective action.
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental body established to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the financing of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). It sets international standards and promotes effective implementation of legal, regulatory, and operational measures to protect the global financial system.
Key Facts
- Established: 1989
- Founded by: G7 countries
- Headquarters: Paris, France
- Nature: Policy-making and standard-setting body
- Members: 39 (including countries and regional organisations)
Objectives of FATF
- Prevent misuse of financial systems for illegal activities
- Combat terror financing and money laundering
- Strengthen global financial transparency
- Promote international cooperation among countries
FATF Recommendations
FATF has issued 40 Recommendations, which serve as global standards for:
- Customer due diligence (KYC norms)
- Monitoring suspicious transactions
- Regulating banks and financial institutions
- Freezing terrorist assets
- International legal cooperation
FATF Monitoring Mechanism
FATF evaluates countries through Mutual Evaluation Reports (MERs) to assess compliance with its standards. Countries failing to meet requirements are placed under increased monitoring.
FATF Lists
- Grey List (Jurisdictions Under Increased Monitoring):
Countries with strategic deficiencies but actively working with FATF to address them. - Black List (High-Risk Jurisdictions):
Countries with serious deficiencies and no meaningful progress. They face international sanctions.
Impact of FATF Listing
- Reduced foreign investment
- Difficulty in accessing global financial markets
- Increased scrutiny from international banks
- Economic and diplomatic pressure
India and FATF
- India became a full member in 2010
- Supports strict action against terror financing
- Actively pushes for global accountability
Review Questions
- Indian Army Day is observed on January 15 to commemorate which historic
event?
A. Formation of the Indian Army in 1895
B. India’s independence from British rule
C. Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa becoming the first Indian Commander-in-Chief
D. Adoption of the Army motto “Service Before Self”
ANSWER: C - Who is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Army as per the Constitution of
India?
A. Prime Minister of India
B. Chief of Army Staff
C. Defence Minister
D. President of India
ANSWER: D - Approximately what percentage of the proposed 114 Rafale fighter jets are
planned to be built in India?
A. 50%
B. 60%
C. 70%
D. 80%
ANSWER: D - Who has been appointed as the new Director General (DG) of the Indo-Tibetan
Border Police (ITBP)?
A. Praveen Kumar
B. Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor
C. Toshimitsu Motegi
D. Theresa Lazaro
ANSWER: B - Japan and the Philippines signed a defence pact mainly to strengthen
cooperation in which area?
A. Space research and satellite development
B. Joint training, logistics support, and disaster response
C. Nuclear weapons development
D. Cyber surveillance against Europe
ANSWER: B - ABHYAS HEAT was successfully flight-tested from
A. Kochi
B. Konkan Coast
C. Chennai
D. ITR, Chandipur Coast
ANSWER: D - ABHYAS Is Designed & Developed By
A. Aeronautical Development Establishment
B. Aeronautics Development Establishment
C. Aeronautical Development Estimate
D. None
ANSWER: A - Army War College Is Located At
A. Mhow
B. Nashik
C. Pune
D. Noida
ANSWER: A - AUSINDEX Ex Conducted B/W India &
A. USA
B. Sweden
C. France
D. Australia
ANSWER: D - Commander Rank of Indian Navy Is Equivalent To Which Rank of IAF? “
A. Air Marshal
B. Flight Lt.
C. Captain
D. Wing Commander
ANSWER: D - INS Utkrosh Naval Air Station Is Located At
A. A&N
B. Lakshadweep
C. Puducherry
D. None of the above
ANSWER: A - SNC Is In
A. Mumbai
B. Kochi
C. Chennai
D. Panaji
ANSWER: B - Monrovia Is The Capital Of
A. Liberia
B. Qatar
C. Madagascar
D. Liechtenstein
ANSWER: A - “A Century ls Not Enough” Book Is Written By
A. Sachin Tendulkar
B. David Reich
C. Rahul Dravid
D. Sourav Ganguly
ANSWER: D - Rear Admiral Rank Of Indian Navy Is Equivalent To Which Rank Of IAF?
A. Air Vice Marshal
B. Group Captain
C. Commodore
D. Major
ANSWER: A - Farkhor Air Base operated by Indian Air Force in collaboration with the__
A. Iranian Air Force
B. Israel Air Force
C. USA Air Force
D. Tajik Air Force
ANSWER: D - What is the name given to India’s first-ever satellite and nuclear-missile
tracking ship?
A. INS Tez
B. INS Parvat
C. INS Eklavya
D. INS Dhruv
ANSWER: D - What is Arjun Mk1A?
A. Anti-tank Guided Missile
B. Main Battle Tank
C. Fighter jets
D. Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
ANSWER: B - Which country hosted the multinational Exercise Desert Flag?
A. UAE
B. US
C. UK
D. France
ANSWER: A - Which country hosted Exercise KAKADU?
A. Australia
B. US
C. UK
D. France
ANSWER: A
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