The Times of India

Indias customs reform journey is entering a phase where regulatory stability, procedural simplicity, digital reliability, will be more important than marginal tariff adjustments.

In a grand tribute to innovation in agriculture, nine distinguished individuals have been honored with the Padma Shri. Among them are esteemed scientists and passionate farmers, recognized for their impactful work ranging from the creation of superior rice strains and genome-editing breakthroughs to the promotion of unique cultivation methods such as Makhana farming.

For the first time in over a decade, India celebrated Republic Day in Yemen with the Indian community and embassy staff. Other diplomatic missions in the US, Singapore, Japan, and Sri Lanka also marked the occasion with flag unfurling ceremonies and participation from the Indian diaspora. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended greetings, highlighting the strong bilateral partnership.

India marked its 77th Republic Day with a grand parade showcasing military might and cultural diversity. Meanwhile, the UAE reportedly scrapped its airport management deal with Pakistan following the UAE President's India visit. In other news, a Bangladesh court sentenced three police officers to death for protest-related killings, and IndiGo cancelled flights to four Central Asian cities due to regional developments.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is slated to visit India in early March to sign significant deals on uranium, energy, minerals, AI, education, and culture. This visit aims to diversify Canada's alliances and reset bilateral relations, with formal CEPA negotiations also set to commence. Both nations are prioritizing these agreements amid a changing global order and U.S. trade pressures.

Nasscom has asked for ESOP tax deferment to be extended to all DPIIT-recognised startups and it should not be limited to just the ones certified by the Inter-Ministerial Board.

Bengaluru's new municipal structure reveals significant voter disparities across wards, with some representing over 49,000 electors while others have just over 10,000. This imbalance undermines democratic representation and could lead to unequal access to civic services and political influence. The delimitation process, based on 2011 census population figures, has resulted in these inequities.

US President Donald Trump extended heartfelt greetings to India on its 77th Republic Day, highlighting the historic partnership between the world's oldest and largest democracies. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ambassador Sergio Gor also conveyed wishes, emphasizing strong cooperation across various sectors and the symbolic presence of US-made aircraft at the parade.

India's burgeoning private space sector urges the government to boost public procurement and recognize space assets as critical infrastructure. This move aims to unlock financing, reduce capital costs, and accelerate the growth of domestic companies in satellites, launch vehicles, and data services, positioning India as a global space leader.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman's upcoming Union Budget is anticipated to bring significant tax reforms and a customs duty overhaul. Focus is also on economic growth support amidst global uncertainty and a clear strategy to lower India's debt-to-GDP ratio. Taxpayers hope for income tax relief, while businesses seek clarity on the new tax regime.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen stated that a successful India contributes to global stability, prosperity, and security. She, along with European Council president Antonio Costa, were the first joint EU leaders to attend India's Republic Day parade as chief guests. Their visit precedes an India-EU summit focused on trade, security, and strategic cooperation.

Indian equity indices Sensex and Nifty have seen significant declines in January, exceeding 4%, driven by consistent foreign fund outflows and a weakening rupee. Geopolitical tensions, tariff concerns, and muted corporate earnings have further pressured the market, leading to a cautious start to the year.

Stock market recommendations: Sudeep Shah, Head of SBI Securities recommends buying Hindustan Unilever, and Ashok Leyland as top stock picks. He shares his view on Nifty, Bank Nifty for the Budget 2026 trading week starting January 27, 2026:

Asian markets mostly dipped, led by Japan's Nikkei, as a stronger yen hit exporters like Toyota. Currency volatility and US trade policy uncertainty kept investors cautious ahead of the Federal Reserve's decision. Meanwhile, US futures saw a slight dip amid tariff concerns, and commodities like gold and silver surged as investors sought safe havens.

India's Republic Day 2026 parade showcased its military might, highlighting the success of Operation Sindoor, a counterterror action that neutralized over 100 terrorists and enemy soldiers. The display featured advanced weapons platforms like the BrahMos missile and S-400 air defence system, emphasizing combat readiness and technological prowess in multi-domain warfare.

While direct participation by individual investors in the equity market has moderated after record inflows in 2024, Indian households have continued to channel their savings into equities through mutual funds, highlighting sustained confidence in equities as a long-term wealth creation avenue, according to a report by the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's red Rajasthani turban, adorned with golden-yellow streaks, captivated onlookers at the 77th Republic Day parade. This distinctive headwear, a recurring signature, symbolizes India's rich cultural tapestry and regional heritage. Paired with a navy kurta-pyjama and light blue Nehru jacket, his attire blended formal elegance with cultural pride, complementing the grandeur of the national celebration.

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a green card through a minimum $800,000 investment in US job-creating projects. This pathway allows investors, their spouses, and children under 21 to gain permanent residency without employer sponsorship. Additional costs and strict source of funds scrutiny apply, with tax planning advised.

Investment opportunities in India's AI, ag-tech, quantum, and healthcare sectors were highlighted at a Seattle business forum. This event precedes Washington State's largest trade mission to India, aiming to strengthen economic ties. The forum also showcased Indian export products, including premium pomegranates and ODOP items.

India is set to significantly slash import duties on European cars, potentially to 40% from over 100%, as a free trade agreement with the EU nears conclusion. This move opens India's auto market, benefiting European brands like BMW and Volkswagen, while protecting domestic electric vehicle production initially. The deal aims to boost trade and diversify supply chains.

IndiGo has cancelled flights to Tbilisi, Almaty, Tashkent, and Baku until January 28 due to regional developments around Iran. The airline cited a review of the security situation and emphasized passenger safety as its highest priority. This decision follows widespread unrest in Iran, with protests escalating against the country's leadership.

India celebrates its 77th Republic Day with a grand parade on Kartavya Path, showcasing military might and cultural diversity. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Council president Antnio Costa are this years chief guests, highlighting a deepening strategic partnership. Discussions on a crucial free trade agreement and a new security pact are underway, underscoring strong India-EU ties.

Budget 2026: Last years Budget delivered meaningful tax relief through revisions in personal income-tax slabs and enhancement of the Section 87A rebate.

Indian stock and commodity markets were closed on January 26 for Republic Day, marking the second holiday of 2026. Trading will resume on January 27. A total of 16 market holidays are scheduled for 2026, including national and religious observances.

Accenture CEO Julie Sweet emphasized that leaders must deeply understand AI to guide their companies through necessary changes. She shared a client example where 300 leaders touching keyboards to experience AI was crucial for progress. Sweet stressed that leader-led learning, followed by broader employee training, is essential for unlocking AI's transformative potential across industries.

India's Constitution, now 76 years old, uniquely begins with art, not just law. 22 hand-drawn illustrations by Nandalal Bose and his team visually represent the spirit of each part, transforming the legal document into a tapestry of India's civilisational essence.

Marco Rubio said the US looks forward to working together to advance our shared objectives in the year ahead and mentioned the Quad to assert the significance of the India-US relationship for the Indo-Pacific region. The national capital has been placed on high alert on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, with intensified security checks underway across the Delhi-NCR region.

Kerala's Kollakkayil Devaki Amma, along with other 'unsung heroes' like Gambir Singh Yonzone and Hally War, has been recognized with Padma awards for their significant environmental conservation efforts. Amma transformed sandy land into a green sanctuary, while others established national parks and revitalized living root bridges, showcasing dedication to nature.

Kargil war hero Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar, a Param Vir Chakra recipient, has been elevated to honorary captain for his distinguished service. He is among 2,241 JCOs receiving honorary commissioned ranks on Republic Day. This recognition highlights the crucial, often overlooked, contributions of senior non-commissioned officers who form the backbone of the Army.

On the eve of Republic Day, the government announced 982 service medals for police, fire, home guards, civil defence, and correctional services. Jammu and Kashmir led in gallantry awards, with 125 Medals of Gallantry, 101 President's Medals for Distinguished Service, and 756 Medals for Meritorious Service conferred.

The government recognized 84 districts, including ten new ones, for Padma awards, highlighting hinterland talents. Notable recipients include folk musician Taga Ram Bheel and environmentalist Hally War. Maharashtra leads with 15 awardees, followed by Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The selection process involved over 39,000 nominations, emphasizing diverse representation.

Enforcement Directorate has attached properties worth Rs 2,000 crore in Ludhiana and Jaipur, bringing the total attachment in the Pearl Agro Corp Ltd case to Rs 7,600 crore. The multi-level marketing firm allegedly defrauded lakhs of investors, raising over Rs 60,000 crore and siphoning funds into personal assets abroad. The Supreme Court has formed a committee to facilitate investor refunds.

Rising tensions around Iran are impacting Indian aviation, leading IndiGo to cancel several services and implement refuelling halts. Air India is reassessing transcontinental operations and has stopped overflying Iran on Europe-bound routes due to safety advisories warning of heightened risks to civil aviation.

The University Grants Commission has introduced new regulations to combat caste-based discrimination on Indian campuses, with institutions now directly accountable for preventing bias and addressing complaints. The framework mandates Equal Opportunity Centres, equity committees, and round-the-clock helplines, aiming for greater transparency and timely action to ensure student welfare.

Tejashwi Yadav has been appointed RJD's national working president, signaling a generational shift in the party. He vowed to challenge the BJP nationwide, touring states to unite anti-BJP forces. Despite recent electoral setbacks, Tejashwi expressed confidence in the party's mission and pledged to work towards national party status, urging workers to remain resolute.

A man jailed for eight years for his wife's murder has been acquitted. The court found critical flaws, including doubts about the recovered body's identity and a lack of established motive. The prosecution's case, built on circumstantial evidence, failed to form an unbroken chain pointing solely to the accused, leading to his immediate release.

Muslim entrepreneurs in India are addressing everyday needs, from professional development for women and Sharia-compliant investments to modest fashion and digital Quran learning. These ventures are filling economic gaps, empowering communities and demonstrating a growing aspiration beyond traditional narratives of disadvantage. They are solving practical problems for modern urban life.

The Supreme Court has ruled that a judge cannot preside over a case involving themselves, quashing proceedings against a railway official. A special railway magistrate had initiated action against the administration for insufficient staff, claiming interference. However, the apex court found the magistrate attempting to judge his own cause, ending the judicial-railway dispute.