Nation

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: A debate has erupted between the BJP and Congress over the wearing of the traditional Assamese ‘patka’ at a Rashtrapati Bhavan reception. The controversy arose after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reportedly did not wear the patka presented to all guests at the event, prompting BJP criticism that he disrespected the North-East and President Draupadi Murmu. The Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, took to X to express his disapproval. “Times may change, but unfortunately, the attitude of Congress Party’s supreme leader Rahul Gandhi seems unchanged. Not wearing the traditional patka, a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of the North-East, at an event hosted by the Hon’ble President of India, was deeply insensitive and disrespectful,” he wrote. Sarma a...

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: Maulana Sajad Rashidi, President of the All India Imam Association, has expressed his support for AIMIM leader Waris Pathan’s controversial remarks about turning Maharashtra and the country “green.” Speaking to IANS, Maulana Rashidi questioned why criticism arises over the green color while saffron-colored political statements face no action. “If a political party wants to expand, what is wrong with it? What is the harm in Waris Pathan talking about green? Those who talk about bringing Ram or waving saffron flags face no action. So why is there an issue when someone talks about making Mumbai or the country green?” he asked. Green is Not an Islamic Color, Says Rashidi Maulana Rashidi emphasized that green is not exclusively an Islamic color and lamented...

New Delhi: During Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army faced a less visible but highly impactful front—fake news and disinformation. Misleading videos, false claims, and coordinated misinformation campaigns originating from across the border were circulated on social media, aiming not only to create confusion but also to undermine the credibility of military operations and institutions. While Indian forces and allied agencies countered these efforts, significant time and resources were spent in the process. AI to the RescueRecognizing the scale of the challenge, the Army is now set to receive an indigenously developed AI-based system to identify and counter disinformation in real time. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, revealed that nearly 15 percent of operational time du...

New Delhi: The Modi government has strategically stirred Kerala politics by announcing the Padma Vibhushan for veteran CPM leader and former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan. This move has put the state’s ruling party in a politically delicate position, as it navigates the reactions of Achuthanandan’s family and the electorate ahead of upcoming assembly elections. For the first time, a senior communist leader will be awarded the country’s second-highest civilian honor, even posthumously. While there have been past attempts to honor communist leaders with national awards, most declined due to ideological reasons. In this case, however, Achuthanandan’s family has welcomed the recognition, with his son V.A. Arun Kumar confirming, “It is an honor from the nation, and we will gladly ...

New Delhi: On the occasion of India’s 77th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu hoisted the national flag at Rajpath, marking the beginning of the grand parade. The celebrations saw a spectacular aerial display by the Indian Air Force and Coast Guard, featuring the ALH Dhruv (Advanced Light Helicopter) and its advanced variant, Rudra. The helicopters captured the attention of dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials, with their impressive formations. The Dhruv ALH, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been serving the Indian Army, Navy, and Coast Guard for over 25 years. This indigenous, twin-engine, 5.5-ton helicopter is capable of performing a wide range of missions, including reconnaissance on the battlefield. Its advanced vari...

New Delhi: The ongoing trade tensions between India and the United States have sparked a political storm in Washington, following the leak of an audio recording involving a prominent U.S. Senator. The recording has raised questions about whether President Donald Trump and his close aides are intentionally slowing down the India-US trade agreement. Senator Ted Cruz’s AllegationsAccording to reports, Senator Ted Cruz of Texas reportedly mentioned White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro and Vice President J.D. Vance in the leaked conversation. Cruz claimed that Trump himself was obstructing progress on the trade deal with India. In a call with donors, Cruz said he and several other Republican Senators were actively lobbying the White House to advance the agreement, highlighting internal di...

New Delhi: On the occasion of India’s 77th Republic Day, President Draupadi Murmu presented the Ashoka Chakra, the country’s highest peacetime gallantry award, to Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. The award recognizes his extraordinary courage, quick decision-making, and dedication during his historic journey to the International Space Station (ISS) under the Axiom-4 mission. Second Indian in Space After Rakesh SharmaGroup Captain Shukla undertook the mission in 2025, becoming the second Indian after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma to travel to space. The Ashoka Chakra was conferred on him for demonstrating exceptional bravery and professional excellence in challenging circumstances, ensuring the mission’s success. Pioneering Research in SpaceDuring his time on the ISS, ...

New Delhi: British journalist Mark Tully, who passed away recently at the age of 90, was born in India and spent most of his life covering the nation’s pivotal events for the BBC. From the India-Pakistan wars, the 1971 conflict, and Operation Blue Star, to the Babri Masjid demolition, Tully’s reporting captured history as it unfolded, often under extraordinary circumstances. Born in India, Schooled in BritainTully was born on 24 October 1935 in Calcutta’s Tollygunge, where his father worked as a tea plantation officer. He spent his formative years in India but had limited interaction with local children, reflecting the lifestyle of British families at the time. Later, he was sent to Britain for studies and enrolled in Theology at Cambridge, initially aspiring to become a priest. After t...

New Delhi: India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day with patriotic fervor and a spectacular parade at Kartavya Path, showcasing the country’s development journey, vibrant culture, and strong armed forces. On this occasion, political leaders across the spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, shared uplifting messages emphasizing the Constitution, national unity, and democratic values. PM Modi Highlights the Constitution and National PridePrime Minister Modi posted on social media platform X, stating:"Republic Day is a powerful symbol of our freedom, Constitution, and democratic values. This festival inspires us to move forward united, with renewed energy and commitment to nation-building. May the resolve for a developed India grow ever stronge...

New Delhi: On India’s 77th Republic Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the National War Memorial to pay homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force accompanied him during the solemn ceremony. After paying tribute, the Prime Minister proceeded to the saluting dais on Kartavya Path to witness the Republic Day parade. Extending his greetings on the occasion, PM Modi posted on the social media platform X, saying, “Heartiest greetings to all citizens on Republic Day. May this national festival, symbolizing India’s pride, honor, and glory, infuse new energy and enthusiasm into your lives. May our resolve for a developed India grow even stronger.” Republic Day Parade: A Symbol of Nati...