A lot happened in India and around the world this week. We bring you a roundup of major developments that are important for UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Prelims 2026.
Here’s a list of key events and why they matter for your exam:
India’s Forex Reserves Rise in Final Week of December
India’s foreign exchange reserves increased by $3.29 billion to $696.61 billion in the last week of December. The rupee remained stable against the dollar.
Why it matters (UPSC): GS3 Economy: Balance of payments. Prelims: RBI functions.
Global New Year Celebrations with Historic Change in NYC
For the first time in over a century, the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop in New York received a patriotic makeover to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026. Enhancements included a second confetti drop and a planned second ball drop on July 3, 2026
Dubai Emerges as a Global Sports Hub
Dubai has gained global attention in January 2026 for hosting a wide range of international sporting events, including racing carnivals, marathons, polo tournaments, and golf championships. The packed sports calendar reinforces Dubai’s position as a key international destination for major sporting events.
Why it is important for UPSC: It highlights how cities use international sports events to enhance global visibility, boost economic activity, and strengthen their position in international relations.
Government proposes Aadhaar like ID for batteries
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed introducing a unique Aadhaar-like identification number for electric vehicle batteries to improve traceability and recycling. As per draft guidelines, battery manufacturers and importers will be required to assign a 21-character Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN) to every battery placed in the market, including those meant for self-use.
WMO flags 2025 as one of the hottest years globally
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has said that 2025 ranks among the hottest years ever recorded globally, highlighting the accelerating impact of climate change. Rising global temperatures were driven by increased greenhouse gas emissions, prolonged heatwaves, and the influence of climate patterns such as El Niño. The WMO warned that extreme weather events, including heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires, are becoming more frequent and intense. The finding underscores the urgent need for stronger climate action, improved adaptation measures, and faster transition to clean energy. It also reinforces global commitments under the Paris Agreement to limit temperature rise.
UPSC will conduct the first exam, i.e., the prelims exam, on May 24, 2026. The Preliminary exam consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper I and CSAT Paper II. Those who will clear the exam will be eligible to appear in the Mains exam, which will begin on August 21, 2026.
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