Nation

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: Ahead of the India–European Union (EU) Summit, key announcements are expected on completing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA), finalizing a strategic defense partnership, and establishing a framework to facilitate mobility for Indian and European citizens. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, during the summit. The summit is likely to focus on trade, defense, security, climate change, critical technologies, and strengthening the rules-based global order, while developing a joint approach to geopolitical challenges arising from shifts in US policies. Historic Trade Agreement on the HorizonEuropean leaders recently stated that Indi...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: For the first time, troops from the European Union (EU) participated in India’s Republic Day parade, highlighting the growing strategic, defense, and diplomatic ties between India and Europe. The parade was graced by Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, who attended as chief guests. The EU contingent included military staff flags and banners representing naval operations such as Operation Atalanta and ESPIDES, marking Europe’s first participation in such an event outside the continent. There were three key reasons for their inclusion: Defense Cooperation: The contingent reflects the expanding collaboration between India and the EU in international maritime security and defens...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: For the first time, a prominent Swiss military think tank, the Centre for Military History and Perspective Studies (CHPM), has released an in-depth analysis of Operation Sindoor, calling it a game-changing event in South Asian air power dynamics. The report, authored by military historian Adrian Fontanelaz, examines the 88-hour India-Pakistan air conflict from May 7–10, 2025, describing it as the most comprehensive independent assessment of the operation so far. According to the report, while international media initially focused on the loss of an Indian Rafale aircraft, this narrative obscured India’s decisive gains. India systematically neutralized Pakistan’s air defense infrastructure and strike capabilities, compelling Pakistan to seek a ceasefire aft...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: On the occasion of Republic Day, Dattatreya Hosabale, the Sarsanghchalak (General Secretary) of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), emphasized the importance of India’s national flag, constitutional values, and the country’s ancient spiritual heritage. Hosabale called upon citizens to uphold these values in daily life, perform their civic duties, and act in accordance with national responsibilities. Praising the government’s decision to play “Vande Mataram” during the Republic Day parade, he said, “It is our national song. Those who led India’s freedom struggle drew inspiration from ‘Vande Mataram’ and moved forward. Each line and word of this song continues to inspire every Indian generation to serve the nation.” Hosabale urged citizens to cultivate l...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh alert for heavy rainfall and storms across 13 states over the next 12 hours. Cold waves in northern India are expected to intensify the discomfort for residents. Temperatures may drop by 2–3°C in regions experiencing heavy rainfall. States Under Severe Weather Alert On January 27, the IMD has warned of strong rain and storms in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. Winds are expected to reach 50–60 km/h, and residents are advised to exercise caution, especially while traveling outdoors. Additionally, 23 districts in northern India are under a cold wave warning. Northern India: Cold Wave Alerts ...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: The Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path this year witnessed a breathtaking display of India’s aerial prowess, as the Indian Air Force executed a highly anticipated flypast that left the crowd exhilarated. Fighter pilots formed the dramatic ‘Sindoor’ formation, dedicated to Operation Sindoor, paying tribute to last year’s strategic missions. Impressive Flypast Featuring 29 Aircraft A total of 29 aircraft participated in the flypast, including 16 fighter jets, four transport planes, and nine helicopters. The formations included Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29, and Jaguar jets, along with strategically vital C-130 and modern C-295 transport aircraft. The roaring jets enthralled spectators, and pilots executed several formations including the Arjun, Vajra...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: The Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path witnessed a spectacular display of India’s military prowess, indigenous defense capabilities, and cultural heritage, with a notable India-Europe collaboration marking the event. The Indian Air Force’s flypast stood out this year, with fighter pilots forming a striking ‘Sindoor’ formation in the sky, dedicated to Operation Sindoor. The parade also featured a historic India-Europe partnership, as Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and António Costa, President of the European Council, participated as chief guests. This marked the first time that two top European Union leaders jointly graced India’s Republic Day celebrations. EU Military Contingent Joins Parade A military contingent fr...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: The University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new regulations, aimed at promoting equality in higher education, are sparking heated debate across social media. Critics from upper-caste communities claim the rules are biased against them and warn that they could create a hostile environment on college and university campuses. Meanwhile, backward class groups have welcomed the regulations as a step toward greater inclusion. What the New UGC Regulations Say Following directives from the Supreme Court, the UGC issued the “Regulations for Promoting Equality in Higher Educational Institutions, 2026.” These rules establish a structured framework to address complaints and provide assistance to students and staff from marginalized groups. The regulations were prompted ...