Daily Current Affairs for CAT, XAT & MBA GDPI – January 5, 2026
Indian Economy & Policy
US could raise tariffs on India if they don't help on Russian oil issue: Trump
US President Donald Trump said Washington could raise tariffs on Indian goods if New Delhi does not address US concerns over India’s purchases of Russian oil. India became the largest buyer of discounted Russian seaborne crude after the Ukraine war began in 2022, drawing criticism from Western nations that say the trade supports Moscow’s war effort.
India Budget 2026: Schemes on cards to give women more financial muscle
Union Budget: Customised credit cards, loan products and women-focused insurance plans may be key announcements as the government is looking to build on the measures unveiled in the FY26 budget, including the Grameen Credit Score and credit support for first-time entrepreneurs.
Indian Politics & Governance
Declare Kumbh Mela area restricted zone for non-Hindus before 2027 Ardh Kumbh: Shri Ganga Sabha
The Sabha president said that the government should identify such people and remove them from Haridwar

South Korean man stabbed to death by Indian live-in partner in Greater Noida; accused held
The deceased was identified as Duck Hee Yuh, a South Korean, who was living at ATS Pious Hideaways in Sector 150 in Gautam Buddh Nagar district
Geopolitics (India Focus)

Political instability, constitutional change, and the military’s hold over Pakistan
Pakistan’s political history shows a recurring pattern in which civilian governments struggle to assert authority amid deep social divisions and weak institutions; the appointment of Asim Munir as Chief of Defence Force reflects continuity rather than rupture in how power operates in the country

‘It was important to make me happy’: Donald Trump says US could raise tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases
Indian Stock Market & IPOs
Nifty hits fresh record high based on earnings optimism: A Balasubramanian
Indian markets begin the new year on a strong note as the Nifty hits a fresh all-time high. A Balasubramanian of ABSL AMC says improving earnings expectations, supported by GST cuts, RBI rate easing and value-based buying in asset-backed companies, are driving the rally ahead of the Q3 results season.
Sensex at 40: BSE Bets on index investing, market depth to drive next phase of growth, says Sundararaman Ramamurthy
As the Sensex completes 40 years, BSE MD & CEO Sundararaman Ramamurthy explains why India’s benchmark index remains relevant, the strategic rationale behind regaining control of its index business, and how technology upgrades, regulatory reforms and index investing are shaping BSE’s turnaround and the next phase of capital market growth.
Marketing, Brands & Consumer Trends

Nuclear power: What will it take for India’s private-sector gambit to succeed?
One of the most significant policy moves of 2025 was the SHANTI Act, which opened the nuclear value chain to private players. Its success, however, will hinge on building public acceptance, ensuring regulatory clarity and providing robust institutional support.

India now shops by season: ACs for summer, air purifiers for winter
The seasonal nature of air purifier and air-conditioner sales poses challenges for marketers. Blue Star emphasizes the need for strategic communication to address misconceptions about indoor air quality and to target diverse consumer segments.
Sports (Business & Governance)
Men’s HIL: Tigers post a gritty win over Soorma
Kalinga Lancers fight back to outwit Ranchi Royals in an absorbing contest, thanks to drag-flicker Hendrickx and Gursahibjit’s twin goals

Perfect stage for Indians to alter dismal record