The Times of India

Alankar Agnihotri, a 2019-batch Provincial Civil Service officer, sent his resignation by e-mail to Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Bareilly District Magistrate Avinash Singh, the officials told news agency PTI. The new rules notified by the UGC on January 13 -- the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026 -- have sparked widespread criticism from general category students who argue that the framework could lead to discrimination against them.

Republic Day celebrations prominently featured the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram,' with performances and tableaux across states. The national song's significance was highlighted, becoming a focal point for political discourse, particularly between the BJP and TMC ahead of West Bengal's assembly polls. Gujarat and Chhattisgarh, among others, showcased tributes to the patriotic anthem.

Sirhind, once a significant historical hub, now lies neglected with its ancient monuments crumbling and forgotten. Despite its rich past, from the era of Prithviraj Chauhan to Guru Gobind Singh's sons, the town has faded from public consciousness. Archaeological exploration and preservation efforts are minimal, leaving its historical treasures buried and overlooked.

The Indian Air Force released a video showcasing its fighter jets armed with advanced missiles like Meteor and BrahMos, silencing critics who doubted India's possession of the beyond-visual-range Meteor missile. The footage featured Rafale, Sukhoi, and Tejas jets, confirming the missile's presence and capabilities for air-to-air combat.

India's military might, including lethal weapon systems and fighter jets from Operation Sindoor, captivated crowds on Kartavya Path during the 77th Republic Day parade. The event showcased advanced missile systems, air defence capabilities, and a unique 'Battle Array Format' with an aerial component, highlighting India's defence prowess to European dignitaries.

Nine individuals from the farm and allied sectors, including prominent agricultural scientists Ashok Kumar Singh and Gopal Ji Trivedi, have been honored with the Padma Shri. Their contributions range from developing numerous rice varieties and genome-edited crops to promoting makhana cultivation and innovative farming techniques, significantly boosting farm growth and farmer livelihoods across India.

Following a proposal to restrict non-Hindus at Haridwar's Kumbh ghats, the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee is considering a similar move at its shrines. Citing tradition and constitutional rights, the committee chairman stated the decision aims to preserve religious practices, welcoming those who respect their faith.

A former MHA officer, RVS Mani, instrumental in exposing contradictory affidavits in the Ishrat Jahan case, has been honored with the Padma Shri. Mani claimed political interference led to the revision of the initial affidavit, which cited intelligence reports confirming Jahan's terror links. The second affidavit downplayed the intelligence, a move later confirmed by then Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

Highway construction agencies are facing a challenge as contractors aggressively bid up to 48% below estimated project costs, raising concerns about work quality. This trend, driven by fewer projects and increased competition, forces contractors to quote low to keep resources engaged, potentially impacting the sector's long-term health and project standards.

Congress has questioned the Modi government's intent regarding the caste enumeration in Census 2027, citing that the 'houselisting' questionnaire omits 'OBC' as an option. The party demands immediate consultations with political parties, states, and civil society before finalizing the caste census details.

Congress leadership is planning to meet senior leader Shashi Tharoor following his absence from a crucial Kerala election strategy meeting. Tharoor, who cited personal issues and unhappiness with the party, will be invited for discussions to address his grievances. The party aims to ensure unity for the upcoming state elections, recognizing Tharoor's electoral influence.

Delhi High Court has adopted gender-neutral terminology in court documents, replacing father's/husband's name with parent's/spouse's name. This change, inspired by a district judge's suggestion, aims to empower women and reflect modern family structures. The move will impact judicial officers' personal files, staff ID cards, and various official forms.

A devastating fire engulfed a Kolkata warehouse complex early Monday, claiming at least seven lives and leaving 21 workers missing. Trapped inside units laden with combustible decoration materials and food supplies, the victims were sleeping when the blaze erupted. Firefighters battled for hours, but the inferno's intensity and smoldering debris continue to hinder rescue efforts.

Global leaders, including US President Trump and China's Xi Jinping, extended Republic Day greetings to India. Trump emphasized the bond between the world's oldest and largest democracies, while Xi highlighted India-China as good neighbours, friends and partners. King Charles III also lauded the enduring India-UK partnership, noting shared values and deepening cooperation.

India and the European Union have finalized a comprehensive free trade agreement after 18 years of talks, poised to boost trade and investment. The deal, expected to be announced Tuesday, aims for significant tariff reductions on most goods, with India gaining market access for textiles and leather, while offering concessions on automobiles and wines. Implementation is anticipated by early 2027.

The previous governments spread fear that the BJP would stop free electricity and water, but these slum dwellers can now live peacefully. We are committed to providing them a good and quality life, Gupta told reporters.

UK intelligence warns of global food and water crises by the 2030s due to ecosystem collapse, potentially sparking conflict. Himalayan river decline could escalate tensions between China, India, and Pakistan, risking nuclear war. The report highlights threats to UK food security and calls for ecosystem protection and restoration.

Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary stated that Pakistan's efforts to disrupt tourism in the region have failed. He urged people to visit Kashmir, emphasizing its peaceful atmosphere and readiness to welcome visitors, while also honoring the victims of a past terror attack.

Jammu and Kashmir is preparing for more heavy snowfall. A western disturbance is expected to bring snow starting Monday evening. This could affect flights and the Jammu-Srinagar highway. Moderate to heavy snowfall is forecast for most of Kashmir and higher Jammu regions on Tuesday. Light rain and higher-reach snow are possible Wednesday.

The BJP has criticized Rahul Gandhi for allegedly not wearing an Assamese 'Gamosa' at a Republic Day reception, with Assam's CM demanding an apology. Congress countered by questioning why Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wasn't also asked to wear it, accusing the BJP of trivial politics and highlighting alleged disrespect towards their leaders at the parade.

A proposed railway line from Bijbehara to Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir is facing strong opposition from local residents and political figures. Concerns are mounting over the project's impact on vast agricultural and apple orchard lands, threatening livelihoods. Leaders are urging the central government to reconsider the plan, citing existing infrastructure and the project's perceived lack of benefit.

An inter-ministerial panel has advised Indian Railways to stagger station redevelopment projects, prioritizing funding for programmatic corridors. The panel also recommended linking station development expenditure to revenue generation, including user charges, and suggested rolling out Integrated Station Facility Managers to maximize income from station assets.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.