India is piloting a digital food currency, a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), for its free ration scheme in select regions. Beneficiaries will receive digital food coupons in an RBI-enabled wallet, redeemable at ration shops by scanning QR codes. This aims to enhance transparency and prevent leakage in the food security program.
The Congress party has accused the ruling BJP of misusing Election Commission's Form 7 to wrongfully delete genuine voters in several states. The party alleges a systematic subversion of electoral rolls revision, particularly targeting backward and marginalized communities, and has urged the EC to investigate and prevent unfair electoral advantage.
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.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India's first astronaut to reach the ISS, has been awarded the Ashok Chakra for his historic 18-day mission and extensive scientific experiments. This prestigious honour, announced on the eve of Republic Day, recognizes his exceptional courage and service. Shukla is also a leading candidate for India's Gaganyaan mission.
J&K CM Omar Abdullah called for Ladakh's re-merger with the state, welcoming the BJP's rejection of further bifurcation. He also opposed dividing Jammu, attributing such theories to BJP legislators and their Kashmiri allies. The statements follow a debate on J&K's future after the abrogation of Article 370.
Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha has granted Nasir Aslam Wani, an advisor to CM Omar Abdullah, the rank and privileges of a cabinet minister. This decision comes after Wani, a former legislator, was appointed as an advisor in October 2024 but lacked formal status. The move ensures Wani receives a consolidated salary, rent-free accommodation, and transport facilities.
Indian sailors faced the worst abandonment in 2025. Over 1,100 Indian seafarers were left stranded on ships. This marks a significant increase from previous years. Many were left without pay and unable to return home. The International Transport Workers’ Federation is working to recover wages. This situation highlights serious issues in the maritime industry.
Security forces neutralized a top Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist, Usman, in Kathua's Billawar during Operation Trashi-I. This operation, now in its sixth day, has seen intense combing operations and the discovery of a terrorist hideout. The ongoing hunt for more militants continues despite challenging conditions, marking a significant breakthrough for security forces.
Jammu and Kashmir was battered by heavy snowfall and fierce winds reaching 155kmph, causing widespread disruption. Highways were blocked, flights cancelled, schools shut, and power supply severely impacted. The Vaishno Devi pilgrimage was suspended as snow blanketed the Trikuta Hills. Authorities are bracing for further weather challenges.
The Bombay High Court sharply questioned the Maharashtra government's adherence to the rule of law, asking if the Chief Minister was too "helpless" to act against a minister whose son has evaded arrest for weeks. The court's remarks came after the police failed to apprehend the minister's son following the rejection of his pre-arrest bail plea.
A committee has been formed to investigate the alleged suicide of a 20-year-old student in Doda after she was barred from her semester exam. The student reportedly jumped into the Chenab River after her mobile phone was confiscated and she was warned of disciplinary action. An assistant professor has been suspended pending the inquiry.
India has expanded its greenhouse gas emission intensity reduction regime to include petroleum refinery, petrochemicals, textiles, and secondary aluminium sectors. Over 200 industrial units must now meet specific reduction targets by 2026-27, facing penalties for non-compliance. This move aligns with India's net-zero goals and climate action targets.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the development of an advanced Nagastra drone, successfully used in Operation Sindoor, and the Bhargavastra counter-drone system. He emphasized the government's focus on increasing private sector contribution to defense manufacturing to 50% or more, highlighting the need for self-reliance in ammunition production.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Mumbai's spirit and the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance's strong performance in Maharashtra's civic elections. The alliance secured significant wins across multiple municipal corporations, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party. This victory is seen as a testament to continued public trust in the NDA's development policies.
National highways will now deny No Objection Certificates for vehicle registration, insurance, and ownership transfers if toll fees remain unpaid. This move, coinciding with the upcoming rollout of barrierless tolling, aims to enhance digital toll collection and prevent evasion on key NH stretches.
Jaishankar And Iranian Minister Discuss Situation
West Delhi commuters will soon experience relief as the Delhi government launches a Rs 64.04 crore project to repair roads and upgrade stormwater drains along the Nangloi-Najafgarh corridor. This initiative aims to improve drainage, reconstruct roads, and enhance safety, addressing years of neglect and waterlogging issues.
Passengers can now seamlessly transfer between the RRTS Namo Bharat and Delhi Metro at New Ashok Nagar Metro Station. An integrated passenger movement corridor has been opened, enhancing commuter convenience and reducing transit times. This integration, achieved through coordinated efforts and a structured SOP, strengthens multimodal urban mobility in the NCR.
Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's NCP have joined forces with an independent councillor. This new alliance aims to secure power in the Ambernath Municipal Council. The move comes after the BJP inducted suspended Congress councillors. This realignment reshapes the power dynamics within the civic body. The group now holds a majority, thwarting the BJP's plans.
India's first space mission of 2026, PSLV-C62, is set to launch on January 12, carrying DRDO's advanced defense satellite Anvesha (EOS-N1) for enhanced surveillance. The mission will also test on-orbit refuelling technology with OrbitAID's AyulSAT and deploy Nepal's Earth observation satellite Munal, alongside 13 other satellites from India and international partners.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch thirteen new trains next week, including India's inaugural Vande Bharat sleeper service. Ten of these trains will depart from West Bengal, with three originating from Assam, both states heading for elections. This significant rollout highlights the Centre's commitment to enhancing transport infrastructure in West Bengal.
Punjab has launched the second phase of its anti-drug campaign, 'Yudh Nashian Virudh'. Over 1.5 lakh volunteers, known as 'Pind De Pehredar', will assist the police. An app will allow anonymous reporting of drug peddlers. Padyatras will be held across the state. The campaign aims to dismantle drug networks and ensure a drug-free Punjab.
