The Times of India

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee alleged a political conspiracy behind the death of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. She demanded a Supreme Court-supervised probe, citing reports that Pawar was planning to rejoin his uncle Sharad Pawar's party. BJP MP Kangana Ranaut criticized Banerjee's statement as petty during a time of mourning.

President Murmu, addressing Parliament, unveiled the government's vision for social justice, inclusive growth, and national security. She highlighted poverty reduction, expanded social security, and a decisive stance against terrorism, citing Operation Sindoor. The President also emphasized economic reforms, infrastructure development, and India's space achievements, including astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's ISS visit.

Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar tragically died in a plane crash in Baramati, adding to a grim list of Indian leaders lost in aviation accidents. This incident follows the June 2025 crash of an Air India Dreamliner, which claimed the life of former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani and over 200 others.

The Supreme Court will hear a plea challenging new UGC regulations on higher education equity. Critics argue the rules define caste discrimination too narrowly, excluding potential bias against general category students. The regulations mandate equity committees with representation from SC, ST, and OBC communities, replacing older advisory guidelines. Protests have erupted demanding the rollback of these rules.

European Council President Antonio Costa expressed pride in his Goan roots, highlighting his personal connection to India as the EU and India concluded an ambitious free trade agreement. This historic moment marks a new chapter in their relations, strengthening ties in trade, security, and people-to-people connections.

Bengaluru-based Akashlabdhi is nearing the launch of India's first inflatable space habitat, AntarikshHAB, after successful key tests in Switzerland. A scaled-down version will launch in July, demonstrating deployment, controlled re-entry, and recovery for crucial data on survivability and responsible space operations.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared Europe-India political ties are stronger than ever, highlighted by a new Free Trade Agreement and Security and Defence Partnership. This collaboration signals a commitment to dialogue and cooperation amidst global uncertainty, aiming to bolster economic growth and strategic stability for both regions. The agreements mark a significant advancement in bilateral relations.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor missed another crucial party meeting, citing a late invitation and pre-planned Dubai travel. Returning from his trip, he stated he would convey his concerns directly to the leadership. Tharoor's recent praise for Prime Minister Modi has reportedly led to him being sidelined from party activities.

India's Principal Scientific Adviser has released a white paper outlining a techno-legal framework for AI governance, emphasizing safe and trusted AI development. The paper advocates for a pro-innovation approach integrating legal safeguards, sector-specific regulations, and technical controls to foster a robust AI ecosystem.

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.