5 Best Sources for Current Affairs for CDS, NDA & AFCAT 2026

(Smart Preparation for Written + SSB)
Preparing for CDS-1, NDA-1, or AFCAT-1 2026 isn’t just about static GK — current affairs decide both your written score and your SSB confidence. Awareness shows maturity, curiosity, and leadership — qualities every officer must have.
Here are the 5 most reliable sources every defence aspirant should follow.

1. Press Information Bureau (PIB): Authentic & Official

Why:

PIB is the Government of India’s official voice — from defence deals to new policies, this is where the news breaks first.

How to Use:

• Visit pib.gov.in daily or subscribe for updates.
• Focus on Defence, International Relations, and Policies.
• Quoting PIB adds authenticity in written and SSB answers.

Pro tip: Maintain a small PIB diary for key one-liners and schemes.

2. IAS Magazines (VisionIAS, Pratiyogita Darpan, Yojana): Complete Monthly Coverage

Why:

Magazines like VisionIAS, Pratiyogita Darpan, and Yojana offer structured analysis of national and international issues — ideal for both exam and SSB prep.

How to Use:

• Read monthly compilations.
• Highlight key schemes, defence updates, and data points.
• Note your opinions — helpful in GD and lecturette.

Pro tip: VisionIAS for depth, PD for summaries, Yojana for policy insights.

3. Monthly Topic-Wise Compilations: Smart Revision Tool

Why:

Platforms like Target Defence Academy and CDS Journey release monthly PDFs sorted by topics — Defence, Economy, Sports, Environment, etc.
Perfect for quick, focused revision.

How to Use:

• Revise each month’s PDF before mock tests.
• Prioritize Defence, IR, and Science & Tech.
• Use one-liners for last-minute brushing.

Pro tip: Revise current affairs weekly — 30 mins a week is enough.

4. Bharat 2025 Book: Build Depth & Perspective

Why:

“Bharat 2025” offers analytical insights on India’s strategy, governance, and foreign policy — useful for essays and SSB discussions.

How to Use:

• Read one chapter weekly.
• Relate it with current headlines.
• Use these insights to back your SSB opinions.

Pro tip: Great for questions like “India’s role in global geopolitics.”

5. SSBWings Monthly Current Affairs Videos: Visual & Retentive

Why:

For visual learners, SSBWings’ YouTube videos simplify complex topics and focus on defence, national, and international news — perfect for aspirants.

How to Use:

• Watch one video each month.
• Pause, note key facts, and make flashcards.
• Use them for lecturette practice.

Pro tip: Videos improve recall and speaking flow during SSB.

The SSB Edge

Current affairs aren’t just facts — they reflect your awareness and personality.
In SSB, candidates who discuss policies, defence exercises, or global issues confidently stand out as well-informed and officer-like.

Final Words

Don’t read everything — read smartly and consistently.
PIB gives authenticity, IAS magazines add depth, and SSBWings makes it easy to retain. Combine all three, and you’ll not only clear the written but also excel in the SSB.

Because being aware isn’t just preparation — it’s leadership in action