Current Affairs 05 February 2026

World Bank Pledges $8-10 Billion Annually to Support India’s Growth.

• The World Bank Group launched a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) with India, committing $8–10 billion in annual financing over the next 5 years to propel India’s growth for Viksit Bharat vision.
• Focuses on leveraging public and private capital and integrating global best practices and technical assistance.
• Emphasized knowledge sharing for sustainable, large-scale development impact.

World Bank Approves $830 mn Loan to Modernize India’s Skill Training.

• The World Bank approved a $830 million loan to upgrade India’s Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and better align skill development with labor market needs.
• The loan carries a final maturity of 19.5 years with a grace period of 4 years.
• Aims to close training-employer gaps, expanding job opportunities and supporting India’s Viksit Bharat vision for economic growth.

Paradip Port Wins First Prize at Swachhata Pakhwada Awards 2025.

• Paradip Port Authority (PPA) won the 1st prize at the Swachhata Pakhwada Awards 2025, instituted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW).
• Recognised for outstanding performance in cleanliness, sustainability, & community participation.
• Notable initiatives like large-scale public participation, green drive (40,000 saplings planted), Safai Mitra welfare etc.

India Joins BRICS Centre to Boost Industrial Competence, MSME Support.

• India formally joined the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC), partnering with United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to support manufacturing and MSMEs across BRICS nations.
• The National Productivity Council (NPC) is tasked as India’s BCIC centre, working under DPIIT’s guidance for capacity building & adoption of Industry 4.0.
• Aims for productivity boost.

India, Bhutan to Deepen Power Sector Partnership with Hydropower Focus.

• India and Bhutan agreed to enhance collaboration in the power sector, focusing on hydropower development leveraging India’s investment & Bhutan’s expertise.
• Aim to expand electricity trade, secure reliable energy flows, & boost bilateral economic cooperation.
• Supports sustainable, renewable energy and aligns with broader development and environmental goals for both countries.