English-language national news, explainers and fact checks.
ICDS in Jaipur has launched ‘Prerna 2.0’ from 19 January to 19 February 2026 to strengthen maternal and child nutrition outcomes across Rajasthan, with a focus on registration, Anganwadi-based service delivery and improved monitoring for pregnant women, young children and adolescent girls.
In the 130th episode of Mann Ki Baat aired on 25 January 2026—also observed as National Voters’ Day—Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged young citizens to register as voters as soon as they turn 18, saying participation strengthens democracy and honours the Constitution that came into force on 26 January.
Ahead of IPL 2026, a report says the BCCI has signed a three-year partnership deal with an AI platform, with the tie-up expected to support tech-led fan engagement and broadcast enhancements as the league continues to expand its commercial and digital footprint.
The India Meteorological Department warned of a fresh western disturbance from January 26, forecasting rain, snowfall and hailstorms across parts of north, northwest and central India. The alert also flagged dense fog pockets and rough sea conditions, with potential travel disruption around Republic Day.
Indian cricket stars Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur Bhullar will be honoured with the Padma Shri for their contributions to sport. The recognition highlights their leadership and impact across formats, underscoring moments and milestones that shaped modern Indian cricket.
West Bengal has reported two Nipah virus cases involving healthcare workers, triggering intensified containment measures and monitoring. Authorities have activated outbreak response protocols, including tracing contacts and strengthening infection-control steps, as Nipah is known for severe illness and high risk when transmission occurs.
On National Voters’ Day (January 25), Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged young Indians to register as voters as soon as they turn 18, saying voting is central to democracy and a constitutional responsibility. He linked the message to Republic Day, describing the Constitution as the foundation of India’s democratic journey.
Telangana unveiled Aikam, a new autonomous body pitched as a global proving ground for deploying AI at scale. Launched at Davos, the initiative includes skilling plans, startup support and partnerships, along with a Responsible AI Standard and Ethics index intended to promote trustworthy, transparent AI deployment.
State-owned Indian Bank has approved plans to open branches in Malaysia and Indonesia and set up a representative office in the UAE, subject to regulatory clearances. The bank reported a rise in Q3 FY26 profit and improvement in asset quality, while outlining growth targets for total business.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the state pushed back 15 people described as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. He added that the government will maintain a tough stance against infiltration, as the issue remains politically and administratively sensitive in the state.
The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has called on farmers to mark 2026-01-26 with a ‘People’s March’ and rallies, saying the mobilisation is meant to defend democracy, secularism and federalism.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has advised national federations and state/UT Olympic bodies to update constitutions and bye-laws to comply with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, a move that could reshape sports administration.