Nation

India and the European Union (EU) are set to sign a major defence agreement next week, coinciding with the finalization of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two sides. The deal is expected to accelerate India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in the defence sector, as European countries recognize India’s significant manufacturing potential. Strategic Defence PartnershipThe India-EU Security and Defence Partnership aims not only to strengthen military-industrial cooperation but also to enhance joint operational capabilities. Under the agreement, a new EU-India Defence Industry Forum will be established to bring defence companies from both sides onto a shared platform, identifying opportunities for collaboration and business growth. Government representatives f...

The United States recently invited India to join its Gaza Peace Board, a new initiative led by former President Donald Trump aimed at post-conflict reconstruction in Gaza. While seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, have agreed to participate alongside Israel, India has yet to accept or decline the invitation. Experts advise caution, citing several strategic concerns. Why India Should Stay Out1. Support for Two-State Solution: India has consistently backed a two-state solution and avoids third-party mediation in Israel-Palestine or India-Pakistan issues. Participation could contradict its long-standing diplomatic stance. 2. Diplomatic Dilemma: India maintains balanced relations with both Israel and Palestine. Any action under the board could create a diplomatic ...

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather alert for nine states, warning of heavy rain and storms over the next 24 hours. In addition, 17 districts in northern India are expected to experience a cold wave. Residents are advised to remain cautious. States Under Rain and Storm AlertThe IMD has forecast heavy rain accompanied by strong winds 40–65 km/h in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. Hilly regions such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand may see heavy snowfall. Cold Wave in Northern CitiesA cold wave is expected in 17 districts across Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab: UP: Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Kanpur, Lucknow, Raebareli, Barabanki, Agra, Mathura, Aligarh, Meerut Haryan...

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a vocal critic of former U.S. President Donald Trump and a longstanding friend of India. During the 45-minute discussion, the leaders reviewed progress in the India-Brazil strategic partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in the coming year. Focus on the Global South and AI SummitBoth leaders emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation for the Global South, a group of developing and least-developed countries. Prime Minister Modi also expressed hope that President Lula would participate in the upcoming AI Summit during his visit to India. Upcoming VisitPresident Lula is scheduled to visit India from 19 to 21 February 2026, during which P...

For the first time in history, nine women Agniveers will join the Indian Air Force (IAF) band at the 77th Republic Day Parade, marching on Rajpath while playing their musical instruments. The IAF announced the historic inclusion at a press briefing on Thursday. Presidential Flag HoistingFlight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankhar will assist President Draupadi Murmu in hoisting the national flag ahead of the formal parade on 26 January. Marching ContingentBehind the IAF band, a 144-member marching contingent led by Sergeant Charles Antony Daniel will march, under the command of Squadron Leader Jagdish Kumar. Squadron Leader Nikita Chaudhary, Flight Lieutenant Prakhar Chandrakar, and Flight Lieutenant Dinesh Murli will serve as additional officers in the Air Force contingent. Flypast in Two...

The Census of India 2027, conducted in two phases for the first time since 2011, will begin its first phase on 1 April 2026 and continue until 30 September 2026. The Registrar General and Census Commissioner have issued instructions for census officials to collect detailed information about households within their assigned local areas. What Will Be Recorded in the First PhaseDuring the first phase, officials will conduct a house listing and housing census, collecting information on 33 key parameters. This includes the materials used in walls, roofs, and floors of houses; availability of internet connections; cooking fuel types such as LPG, PNG, firewood, or coal; house usage (residential or mixed-use); and the condition of the dwelling (good, livable, or dilapidated). Household and F...

The central government has released the draft National Electricity Policy (NEP) 2026 for public consultation, aiming to prepare the country’s power sector for the future. Stakeholders across the industry have been invited to provide their suggestions on the draft. New Focus on Nuclear EnergyThe draft emphasizes moving away from coal-based thermal power and highlights nuclear energy as a potential alternative. This follows the recent implementation of the SHANTI Act, which opens up the nuclear sector to private companies. The draft outlines significant changes in India’s electricity policy and signals the government’s push for a more sustainable, reliable, and economically strong power sector. Will Electricity Become More Expensive?For the average consumer, the key concern remains whe...

New Delhi: This Republic Day, the nation will witness a historic aerial display as the Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to fly its fighter jets in a ‘Sindoor’ formation during the 77th Republic Day parade. The formation will include Rafale, Sukhoi-30, MiG-29, and Jaguar fighter jets—all of which played a crucial role in Operation Sindoor, highlighting India’s strategic and tactical capabilities. Sindoor Formation: A Tribute to Operation Sindoor According to the News Agency NAI, the IAF jets participating in the Republic Day parade will replicate the Sindoor formation, which commemorates the successful strikes during Operation Sindoor. The formation will consist of: Two Rafale jets Two Sukhoi-30 jets Two MiG-29 jets One Jaguar fighter jet This formation symbolizes the pre...

New Delhi: India is witnessing an AI-driven transformation that extends beyond technology, aiming to empower women, skill the youth, and provide security and opportunities for workers in the unorganized sector. The upcoming India-AI Impact Summit next month will bring global AI experts together to discuss ways of making AI inclusive, practical, and beneficial for all, rather than focusing solely on machines, algorithms, or automation. India AI Mission: Empowerment Through Technology Launched in March 2024, the India AI Mission seeks to develop AI capabilities across the country. Its initiatives include: Expanding computing power and opening new innovation centers. Creating trustworthy data platforms and AI-based applications. Skill development for youth and financial suppor...