National News

Shreyas Iyer becomes the first Indian cricketer to lead three different IPL teams, as he is named Punjab Kings captain for the 2025 season. Earlier, he led Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in 2024 and guided Delhi Capitals to the final in 2020. Iyer joins Mahela Jayawardene and Steve Smith in achieving this feat.

India summoned the Bangladeshi deputy high commissioner to discuss escalating border issues, following a meeting between Indian diplomat Pranay Verma and Bangladeshi authorities on border security collaboration. Tensions rose as BSF faced BGB objections while installing barbed wire fencing in Malda. The project halted after a flag meeting between the forces.

A massive fire broke out at the laddu distribution counter at the Lord Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati amid the ongoing 10-day Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam, which draws hundreds of devotees. The temple administration acted quickly, containing the blaze. The temple is on high alert after a stampede on January 8 caused casualties and injuries.

Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah thanked PM Narendra Modi for facilitating timely elections and emphasised the importance of the newly inaugurated Z-Morh tunnel. He acknowledged the sacrifices of those who died in the terror attack on tunnel workers and highlighted Modi's efforts in addressing regional issues.

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami returns after 14 months for India in the five-match T20 series against England. His comeback is crucial, providing experience, leadership, and effective death-over bowling, crucial for India's T20 setup and as preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup.

Blue Origin's first launch of the New Glenn rocket was delayed due to technical issues. The mission, crucial for competing against SpaceX, was halted just minutes before liftoff from Cape Canaveral. The partially reusable rocket aims to carry heavier payloads and has strategic significance for Nasa missions and Amazon’s satellite ventures. No new launch date has been announced yet.

New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner, announced a strong squad for the Champions Trophy, featuring a robust pace attack and impressive spin options. Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali highlighted their potential to challenge both India and Pakistan. The squad includes experienced players like Kane Williamson and several fast bowlers, making them formidable opponents.

There is growing debate over Gautam Gambhir's performance as India's Test cricket coach, with a lackluster record of 3 wins in 10 Test matches. Former England spinner Monty Panesar suggests splitting coaching roles for Test and limited-overs cricket, possibly appointing VVS Laxman as Test coach, given Gambhir's success and comfort with white-ball formats.

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi emphasized the Indian Army's readiness along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, LoC in Pakistan, and Manipur. He highlighted operational preparedness, reconciliation efforts, and enhanced surveillance. Transformation into a self-reliant force by 2047 aligns with national development goals.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos expressed confidence in Elon Musk's intentions and trustworthiness despite Musk's connections with Donald Trump. Bezos emphasized Musk's commitment to the public interest and downplayed concerns about potential shifts in NASA's priorities. This sentiment comes as Blue Origin prepares for the New Glenn rocket launch.

Prime Minister Modi inaugurates the Z-Morh tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring year-round access to the Sonamarg resort. The Rs 2,400 crore project improves connectivity in the Ladakh region, aiding defence logistics and socio-economic development. The tunnel works with the under-construction Zojila tunnel to enhance travel efficiency and road connectivity.

Shiv Sena UBT leader Sanjay Raut urged Congress to take the lead in maintaining the INDIA-bloc alliance, emphasizing their elder brother role. He highlighted the alliance's success in the 2024 elections but pointed out the lack of post-election meetings and communication issues.

Delhi HC rebukes AAP-led government for its delayed response to CAG's liquorgate report, pointing out significant regulatory lapses and substantial financial losses incurred between 2017 and 2021. The CAG report flagged licensing irregularities, pricing discrepancies, and compromised regulatory measures in the excise policy implementation.

Scammers in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, replaced legitimate QR codes at 12 shops and a petrol pump with fake ones to redirect payments. One suspect, Chhotu Tiwari, was arrested within 72 hours after being captured on CCTV. Police have recovered several fake QR code stickers and are investigating further to apprehend other suspects involved.

Indian equity benchmark indices BSE Sensex and Nifty50 plunged significantly on Monday, with Sensex falling over 1000 points and Nifty over 300 points. The rupee also hit a life-time low against the US dollar. Market volatility was driven by surging crude oil prices, a stronger dollar index, and concerns following robust US employment data.

The Durbar Mahila Samanway Commitee is highlighting recently passed legislations in Belgium giving rights to sex workers, legalising sex work, and taking inspiration from them to bring reforms in India. 

Traffic Police authorities have made elaborate arrangements and implemented a detailed plan to ensure smooth vehicular movement and safety for devotees visiting the Maha Kumbh Mela

Dense fog in Delhi caused significant train delays, prompting the IMD to issue a 'yellow' alert for the NCR until Wednesday. Temperatures range between 6-7°C. Despite recent rain improving air quality, AQI remains 'poor'. Stage-III restrictions were lifted, but Stage-I and II restrictions continue to prevent further air quality deterioration.