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As Delhi gears up for its assembly elections, BJP, AAP, and Congress are making a flurry of promises to attract voters. Each party is focusing on key issues such as development, public services, and governance to secure support ahead of the polls.

Delhi Assembly Elections: BJP, AAP, Congress race to lure Delhi's voters

Union Home Minister Amit Shah took a dip at the Triveni Sangam here on Monday and described the Maha Kumbh as a unique symbol of the Sanatan culture's philosophy, which is rooted in harmony.
Shah took the dip around 1 pm, performed "jal aachman" (sipping holy water) and offered water to the Sun, besides completing other rituals under the guidance of top seers.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who, along with the seers, entered the holy waters with Shah, moved back when the senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader took the dip.
Soon, Junapithadheeshwar Mahamandelashwar Acharya Avdheshanand Giriji Maharaj asked Adityanath to come and join the others in performing the rituals and the chief minister came forward again.
Yoga guru Ramdev was also among those present on the occasion.
The home minister's family members, including son Jay Shah, the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), partook in the rituals including "aarti" at the Sangam. Amit Shah's wife Sonal, daughter-in-law Rishita and grandchildren also took part in the rituals.
The seers blessed Jay Shah and Rishita's newborn as the ICC chairman held him in his lap while his elder daughter joined him for the "aarti".
"I am overwhelmed and delighted to have taken a holy dip at the sacred Triveni Sangam during the 'Maha Kumbh', a symbol of social harmony and unity, in the presence of revered seers," Shah said in a post in Hindi on X.
"I pray to Mother Ganga, Mother Yamuna and Mother Saraswati for the well-being of all," he added.
The home minister noted that the Maha Kumbh is fostering a sense of unity among the countrymen and enhancing pride in Sanatan traditions.
"At the Sangam banks, I performed rituals with my family and prayed for the prosperity and progress of the nation," he said.
The rituals involving the Shah family were graced by saints such as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avdheshanand Giri of Juna Akhara, Peethadheeshwar Kailashanand of Niranjani Akhara, Baba Ramdev, Akhada Parishad President Ravindra Puri, Harigiri of Juna Akhara, and senior Mahants of various Akharas.
After the rituals at the Sangam, the Shah family visited the Akshayvata, circumambulated the sacred tree and offered prayers, with Adityanath by its side.
The Akshayavata is an ancient tree that has mythological significance for Hindus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also offered prayers at the Akshayvata during his pre-Maha Kumbh visit in December.
Before taking the dip, Shah held an interaction with Avdheshanand Giriji Maharaj, Mahant Hari Giri, and Mahant Prem Girid in a special cottage on a floating jetty as they moved to Sangam from the VIP Ghat in Arail.
Adityanath was seated next to the home minister during the interaction.
Shah's visit was marked by an unprecedented security cover in the mela area as well as in Prayagraj.
While the mela area was strictly made a no-vehicle zone, the Prayagraj city had several route diversions in place, impacting the locals and visiting pilgrims.
In a post in Hindi on X, Adityanath said, "Today, in the holy presence of revered seers and spiritual leaders, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah took a sacred dip at the holy Triveni Sangam in Tirthraj Prayag. May Ma Ganga, Ma Yamuna and Ma Saraswati bless everyone with prosperity and well-being. This is our prayer." He also shared a Sanskrit "shloka" from the "Padma Purana", an ancient and revered text in Hinduism, signifying the importance of the holy bath at the Sangam during the Hindu month of "Magh".
In another post on the microblogging platform, Adityanath said, "In the sacred presence of revered seers, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah performed the ritual worship and aarti of the ever-purifying Mother Ganga at Prayagraj. May Mother Ganga's blessings remain upon the entire creation." In this post, he shared a Sanskrit "shloka" devoted to the Ganga river.
Later in the afternoon, Shah visited Avdheshanand Giriji Maharaj's ashram. He also met with Swami Chidanand Saraswati, among other seers before departing from the Maha Kumbh.
On Monday morning, the home minister said in a post on X that the Maha Kumbh is a unique symbol of the continuous flow of the Sanatan culture.
"The Kumbh showcases the life philosophy of Sanatan Dharma, which is rooted in harmony. I am eager to take a dip at the Sangam and receive the blessings of seers at this great festival of unity and integrity in the holy city of Prayagraj," he added.
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, more than 1.55 crore people had taken the holy bath at the Maha Kumbh on Monday.
The mela area is hosting more than 10 lakh "Kalpvasis" and over 14.76 crore people so far have taken the dip since the mega religious congregation started on January 13, the government said.
"Kalpvas" is a month-long practice of austerity and spiritual focus. The Maha Kumbh will continue until February 26.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Union Minister Amit Shah takes a sacred dip at Triveni Sangam, highlighting Maha Kumbh as a symbol of unity and Sanatan culture's harmony.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah took a dip at the Triveni Sangam here on Monday and described the Maha Kumbh as a unique symbol of the Sanatan culture's philosophy, which is rooted in harmony. Shah took the dip around 1 pm, performed "jal aachman" (sipping holy water) and offered water to the Sun, besides completing other rituals under the guidance of top seers. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who, along with the seers, entered the holy waters with Shah, moved back when the senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader took the dip. Soon, Junapithadheeshwar Mahamandelashwar Acharya Avdheshanand Giriji Maharaj asked Adityanath to come and join the others in performing the rituals and the chief minister came forward again. Yoga guru Ramdev was also among those present on the occasion. The home minister's family members, including son Jay Shah, the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), partook in the rituals including "aarti" at the Sangam. Amit Shah's wife Sonal, daughter-in-law Rishita and grandchildren also took part in the rituals. The seers blessed Jay Shah and Rishita's newborn as the ICC chairman held him in his lap while his elder daughter joined him for the "aarti". "I am overwhelmed and delighted to have taken a holy dip at the sacred Triveni Sangam during the 'Maha Kumbh', a symbol of social harmony and unity, in the presence of revered seers," Shah said in a post in Hindi on X. "I pray to Mother Ganga, Mother Yamuna and Mother Saraswati for the well-being of all," he added. The home minister noted that the Maha Kumbh is fostering a sense of unity among the countrymen and enhancing pride in Sanatan traditions. "At the Sangam banks, I performed rituals with my family and prayed for the prosperity and progress of the nation," he said. The rituals involving the Shah family were graced by saints such as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avdheshanand Giri of Juna Akhara, Peethadheeshwar Kailashanand of Niranjani Akhara, Baba Ramdev, Akhada Parishad President Ravindra Puri, Harigiri of Juna Akhara, and senior Mahants of various Akharas. After the rituals at the Sangam, the Shah family visited the Akshayvata, circumambulated the sacred tree and offered prayers, with Adityanath by its side. The Akshayavata is an ancient tree that has mythological significance for Hindus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also offered prayers at the Akshayvata during his pre-Maha Kumbh visit in December. Before taking the dip, Shah held an interaction with Avdheshanand Giriji Maharaj, Mahant Hari Giri, and Mahant Prem Girid in a special cottage on a floating jetty as they moved to Sangam from the VIP Ghat in Arail. Adityanath was seated next to the home minister during the interaction. Shah's visit was marked by an unprecedented security cover in the mela area as well as in Prayagraj. While the mela area was strictly made a no-vehicle zone, the Prayagraj city had several route diversions in place, impacting the locals and visiting pilgrims. In a post in Hindi on X, Adityanath said, "Today, in the holy presence of revered seers and spiritual leaders, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah took a sacred dip at the holy Triveni Sangam in Tirthraj Prayag. May Ma Ganga, Ma Yamuna and Ma Saraswati bless everyone with prosperity and well-being. This is our prayer." He also shared a Sanskrit "shloka" from the "Padma Purana", an ancient and revered text in Hinduism, signifying the importance of the holy bath at the Sangam during the Hindu month of "Magh". In another post on the microblogging platform, Adityanath said, "In the sacred presence of revered seers, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah performed the ritual worship and aarti of the ever-purifying Mother Ganga at Prayagraj. May Mother Ganga's blessings remain upon the entire creation." In this post, he shared a Sanskrit "shloka" devoted to the Ganga river. Later in the afternoon, Shah visited Avdheshanand Giriji Maharaj's ashram. He also met with Swami Chidanand Saraswati, among other seers before departing from the Maha Kumbh. On Monday morning, the home minister said in a post on X that the Maha Kumbh is a unique symbol of the continuous flow of the Sanatan culture. "The Kumbh showcases the life philosophy of Sanatan Dharma, which is rooted in harmony. I am eager to take a dip at the Sangam and receive the blessings of seers at this great festival of unity and integrity in the holy city of Prayagraj," he added. According to the Uttar Pradesh government, more than 1.55 crore people had taken the holy bath at the Maha Kumbh on Monday. The mela area is hosting more than 10 lakh "Kalpvasis" and over 14.76 crore people so far have taken the dip since the mega religious congregation started on January 13, the government said. "Kalpvas" is a month-long practice of austerity and spiritual focus. The Maha Kumbh will continue until February 26. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Union Minister Amit Shah takes sacred dip in Triveni Sangam

ANI: Uttarakhand has made history by becoming the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).&nbsp;
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the UCC portal and rules on Monday (January 27), marking a significant milestone in the state's journey towards social justice and equality.&nbsp;
The UCC aims to simplify and standardise personal laws related to marriage, divorce, succession, and inheritance. An official order from the Uttarakhand government reads, "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of The Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand, 2024 (Act no 3 of 2024), the Governor hereby appoints the date 27 January 2025 as the date on which the said Code shall come into force."&nbsp;
The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code Act, 2024, is aimed at establishing a streamlined framework for the creation and cancellation of wills and supplementary documents, known as codicils, under testamentary succession.
According to the state government, this act applies to the entire area of the state of Uttarakhand and is also effective on the residents of the state living outside Uttarakhand. The UCC applies to all residents of Uttarakhand, except Scheduled Tribes and protected authority-empowered persons and communities.
Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), aiming to simplify and standardise personal laws related to marriage, divorce, succession, and inheritance. Under this, marriage can be solemnised only between those parties, none of whom has a living spouse, both are mentally capable of giving legal permission, the man should have completed at least 21 years of age and the woman 18 years of age, and they should not be in the ambit of prohibited relationships.
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Marriage rituals can be performed in any form under religious customs or legal provisions, but it is mandatory to register marriages taking place after the implementation of the Act within 60 days. Marriages solemnised before March 26, 2010, or outside the state of Uttarakhand, where both parties have been living together since then and fulfil all the legal eligibility criteria, can (although it is not mandatory) get registered within six months of the coming into force of the Act, said an official statement by the government. Similarly, the work of acceptance and acknowledgement of marriage registration is also required to be completed promptly.
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After receiving the application, the sub-registrar has to make an appropriate decision within 15 days. According to the statement, if no decision is taken on the application related to marriage registration within the prescribed period of 15 days, then that application is automatically forwarded to the registrar; whereas, in case of acknowledgement, the application will be considered automatically accepted after the same period. Along with this, a transparent appeal process is also available if the registration application is rejected. There is a provision of penalty for giving false information for registration under the Act and it has also been clarified that the marriage will not be considered invalid merely due to non-registration. Registration can be done both online and offline.&nbsp;
To implement these provisions, the state government will appoint a registrar general, Registration and sub-registrar, who will ensure the maintenance and monitoring of the relevant records. This Act also lays down who can marry and how marriages are to be solemnised and also provides clear provisions on how both new and old marriages can be legally recognised, the statement added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India News | Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the UCC portal and rules on January 27, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the state's journey towards social justice and equality. 

ANI: Uttarakhand has made history by becoming the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the UCC portal and rules on Monday (January 27), marking a significant milestone in the state's journey towards social justice and equality. The UCC aims to simplify and standardise personal laws related to marriage, divorce, succession, and inheritance. An official order from the Uttarakhand government reads, "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of The Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand, 2024 (Act no 3 of 2024), the Governor hereby appoints the date 27 January 2025 as the date on which the said Code shall come into force." The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code Act, 2024, is aimed at establishing a streamlined framework for the creation and cancellation of wills and supplementary documents, known as codicils, under testamentary succession. According to the state government, this act applies to the entire area of the state of Uttarakhand and is also effective on the residents of the state living outside Uttarakhand. The UCC applies to all residents of Uttarakhand, except Scheduled Tribes and protected authority-empowered persons and communities. Uttarakhand has become the first state in India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), aiming to simplify and standardise personal laws related to marriage, divorce, succession, and inheritance. Under this, marriage can be solemnised only between those parties, none of whom has a living spouse, both are mentally capable of giving legal permission, the man should have completed at least 21 years of age and the woman 18 years of age, and they should not be in the ambit of prohibited relationships. Also Read | India-China talks: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights to resume in 2025 - Know when Marriage rituals can be performed in any form under religious customs or legal provisions, but it is mandatory to register marriages taking place after the implementation of the Act within 60 days. Marriages solemnised before March 26, 2010, or outside the state of Uttarakhand, where both parties have been living together since then and fulfil all the legal eligibility criteria, can (although it is not mandatory) get registered within six months of the coming into force of the Act, said an official statement by the government. Similarly, the work of acceptance and acknowledgement of marriage registration is also required to be completed promptly. Also Read | 'We’ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation After receiving the application, the sub-registrar has to make an appropriate decision within 15 days. According to the statement, if no decision is taken on the application related to marriage registration within the prescribed period of 15 days, then that application is automatically forwarded to the registrar; whereas, in case of acknowledgement, the application will be considered automatically accepted after the same period. Along with this, a transparent appeal process is also available if the registration application is rejected. There is a provision of penalty for giving false information for registration under the Act and it has also been clarified that the marriage will not be considered invalid merely due to non-registration. Registration can be done both online and offline. To implement these provisions, the state government will appoint a registrar general, Registration and sub-registrar, who will ensure the maintenance and monitoring of the relevant records. This Act also lays down who can marry and how marriages are to be solemnised and also provides clear provisions on how both new and old marriages can be legally recognised, the statement added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Uttarakhand makes history as India’s first state to implement Uniform Civil Code

Former Delhi chief minister and Aam AAdmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Jan 27) accused the BJP-led Haryana government of releasing poisonous water into the Yamuna River, which supplies drinking water to Delhi. He claimed that the contaminated water could have caused a disaster if the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) had not stopped it from entering the city.
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<h2>Kejriwal&rsquo;s claim of 'mass genocide'&nbsp;</h2>
Kejriwal alleged that Haryana&rsquo;s actions could have resulted in a "mass genocide" in Delhi. He said, &ldquo;The BJP government in Haryana has poisoned the Yamuna water. Even our treatment plants cannot purify this water. It has already created a water shortage in one-third of Delhi.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiElection2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiElection2025</a> | AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal says, "...The people of Delhi get water to drink from Haryana and UP. In Yamuna, water flows into Delhi from Haryana. BJP's Haryana govt has poisoned the water in Yamuna. However, the Delhi Jal Board were&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/fgZPxoBnC0">pic.twitter.com/fgZPxoBnC0</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883823561242202583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He also accused the BJP of trying to create chaos in Delhi and shifting the blame on AAP. To address the issue, AAP CMs Atishi and Bhagwant Mann have approached the Election Commission for immediate intervention.&nbsp;
<h2>Delhi Jal Board CEO refutes Kejriwal&rsquo;s statements &nbsp;</h2>
Shilpa Shinde, CEO of the Delhi Jal Board, challenged Kejriwal&rsquo;s claims, calling them misleading and factually incorrect. Writing to the Chief Secretary, she said such statements create unnecessary fear among residents and harm relations with Haryana.&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CEO of Delhi Jal Board, Shilpa Shinde writes to the Chief Secretary, saying statements by AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal alleging that Haryana has released poison into raw water reaching Delhi through Yamuna are factually incorrect, without any basis and misleading. Such false&hellip;
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883892570214044156?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Haryana Minister denies allegations&nbsp;</h2>
Haryana minister Anil Vij dismissed the accusations, calling them baseless. "Arvind Kejriwal is a factory of lies... Take all journalists and analysts to the place where Yamuna enters Delhi and check the quality of water, and then check the quality of water in Delhi. They will see the difference," Vij said. &nbsp;
He also criticised Kejriwal for failing to clean the river in Delhi, stating that maintaining Yamuna&rsquo;s cleanliness in Delhi is AAP&rsquo;s responsibility.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Kejriwal alleged that Haryana’s actions could have resulted in a "mass genocide" in Delhi. He said, “The BJP government in Haryana has poisoned the Yamuna water. Even our treatment plants cannot purify this water.” 

Former Delhi chief minister and Aam AAdmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Jan 27) accused the BJP-led Haryana government of releasing poisonous water into the Yamuna River, which supplies drinking water to Delhi. He claimed that the contaminated water could have caused a disaster if the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) had not stopped it from entering the city. Also Read | India: Joint Parliamentary Committee clears Waqf Amendment Bill amid opposition uproar Kejriwal’s claim of 'mass genocide' Kejriwal alleged that Haryana’s actions could have resulted in a "mass genocide" in Delhi. He said, “The BJP government in Haryana has poisoned the Yamuna water. Even our treatment plants cannot purify this water. It has already created a water shortage in one-third of Delhi.” #WATCH | #DelhiElection2025 | AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal says, "...The people of Delhi get water to drink from Haryana and UP. In Yamuna, water flows into Delhi from Haryana. BJP's Haryana govt has poisoned the water in Yamuna. However, the Delhi Jal Board were… pic.twitter.com/fgZPxoBnC0 — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2025 He also accused the BJP of trying to create chaos in Delhi and shifting the blame on AAP. To address the issue, AAP CMs Atishi and Bhagwant Mann have approached the Election Commission for immediate intervention. Delhi Jal Board CEO refutes Kejriwal’s statements Shilpa Shinde, CEO of the Delhi Jal Board, challenged Kejriwal’s claims, calling them misleading and factually incorrect. Writing to the Chief Secretary, she said such statements create unnecessary fear among residents and harm relations with Haryana. Also Read | Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 ‘guarantees’ CEO of Delhi Jal Board, Shilpa Shinde writes to the Chief Secretary, saying statements by AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal alleging that Haryana has released poison into raw water reaching Delhi through Yamuna are factually incorrect, without any basis and misleading. Such false… — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2025 Haryana Minister denies allegations Haryana minister Anil Vij dismissed the accusations, calling them baseless. "Arvind Kejriwal is a factory of lies... Take all journalists and analysts to the place where Yamuna enters Delhi and check the quality of water, and then check the quality of water in Delhi. They will see the difference," Vij said. He also criticised Kejriwal for failing to clean the river in Delhi, stating that maintaining Yamuna’s cleanliness in Delhi is AAP’s responsibility. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mass genocide': Kejriwal accuses Haryana govt of poisoning Delhi's water supply

India and China have reached an agreement to restart the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-talks-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-to-start-from-summer-of-2025-8659012">Kailash Mansarovar Yatra</a>, which has been suspended since 2020, as per a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 27). This decision came after discussions between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Foreign Secretary Misri was on a two-day visit to Beijing from January 26 to 27, 2025, to review bilateral relations.
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"In this context, the two sides decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in the summer of 2025; the relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for doing so as per existing agreements," the MEA statement said.
&ldquo;The relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for doing so as per existing agreements. They also agreed to hold an early meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism to discuss resumption of provision of hydrological data and other cooperation pertaining to trans-border rivers,&rdquo; a statement by MEA said.
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The two nations also expressed their willingness to restart direct flights and to encourage closer people-to-people interactions, particularly among media professionals and think tanks.
&ldquo;The two sides took stock of the extant mechanisms for functional exchanges. It was agreed to resume these dialogues step by step and to utilise them to address each other&rsquo;s priority areas of interest and concern,&rdquo; the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/freedom-of-speech-cannot-be-selective-india-on-violent-protests-against-emergency-film-screening-in-uk-8651514">MEA</a> added.
<h2>75 years of India-China diplomacy</h2>
The MEA statement added that the two sides will complete 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations in 2025.&nbsp;
This milestone should be used to strengthen public diplomacy, improve understanding, and rebuild trust between the two nations. Both sides will organise various events to celebrate the anniversary, the MEA added.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: India and China have reached an agreement to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since 2020, as per a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 27). 

India and China have reached an agreement to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since 2020, as per a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 27). This decision came after discussions between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Foreign Secretary Misri was on a two-day visit to Beijing from January 26 to 27, 2025, to review bilateral relations. Also read: 14-year-old Noida boy makes asteroid discovery, NASA allows him to name it "In this context, the two sides decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in the summer of 2025; the relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for doing so as per existing agreements," the MEA statement said. “The relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for doing so as per existing agreements. They also agreed to hold an early meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism to discuss resumption of provision of hydrological data and other cooperation pertaining to trans-border rivers,” a statement by MEA said. Also read: PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call The two nations also expressed their willingness to restart direct flights and to encourage closer people-to-people interactions, particularly among media professionals and think tanks. “The two sides took stock of the extant mechanisms for functional exchanges. It was agreed to resume these dialogues step by step and to utilise them to address each other’s priority areas of interest and concern,” the MEA added. 75 years of India-China diplomacy The MEA statement added that the two sides will complete 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations in 2025. This milestone should be used to strengthen public diplomacy, improve understanding, and rebuild trust between the two nations. Both sides will organise various events to celebrate the anniversary, the MEA added. (With inputs from agencies)

India-China talks: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights to resume in 2025 - Know when

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week.&nbsp; During their call, PM Modi congratulated President Trump on his victory in the US presidential elections. PM Modi in a post on social media platform X said, "We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6f4zmn8-fwdiufwh-6zhqcxa9">
Delighted to speak with my dear friend President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity,&hellip;
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1883882348439089490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
The two leaders may meet as early as mid-February if President Trump attends the Artificial Intelligence (AI) summit in Paris. Alternatively, PM Modi could visit Washington, D.C. in February for their first in-person meeting. According to sources cited by The Economic Times, dates for the meeting have not been finalised. Discussions are ongoing, considering potential issues such as tariffs and immigration policies. A decision will be made following further discussions with the Trump administration. President Trump and PM Modi's last meeting was in February 2020 during th former's visit to India, where both leaders demonstrated a strong working relationship. Trump is also expected to visit India later this year for the Quad summit. The summit will be hosted by India.&nbsp; In 2019, Trump and Modi participated in the 'Howdy Modi' rally in Houston, attended by approximately 50,000 people, including many Indian Americans.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | India News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump engaged in a detailed phone conversation, focusing on strengthening India-US bilateral ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week. During their call, PM Modi congratulated President Trump on his victory in the US presidential elections. PM Modi in a post on social media platform X said, "We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity." Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity,… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 27, 2025 The two leaders may meet as early as mid-February if President Trump attends the Artificial Intelligence (AI) summit in Paris. Alternatively, PM Modi could visit Washington, D.C. in February for their first in-person meeting. According to sources cited by The Economic Times, dates for the meeting have not been finalised. Discussions are ongoing, considering potential issues such as tariffs and immigration policies. A decision will be made following further discussions with the Trump administration. President Trump and PM Modi's last meeting was in February 2020 during th former's visit to India, where both leaders demonstrated a strong working relationship. Trump is also expected to visit India later this year for the Quad summit. The summit will be hosted by India. In 2019, Trump and Modi participated in the 'Howdy Modi' rally in Houston, attended by approximately 50,000 people, including many Indian Americans. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call

India and China should meet each other halfway and commit themselves to mutual understanding rather than mutual suspicion, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday as he met Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Beijing.
Misri is in Beijing on a two-day visit for talks with Chinese officials to improve India-China relations in the second such high-profile visit from India to China in less than one-and-a-half months.
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In his meeting with Misri, Wang said that since the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia last year, the two sides have earnestly implemented the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, carried out active interactions at all levels, and accelerated the process of improving China-India relations, said a press release issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry here.
"The two sides should seize the opportunity, meet each other halfway, explore more substantive measures, and commit to mutual understanding, mutual support, and mutual achievement, rather than mutual suspicion, mutual alienation, and mutual consumption," Wang said.
The improvement and development of China-India relations is in the fundamental interests of the two countries and their peoples, and is conducive to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the global South countries, he said.
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Good relations between India and China are also conducive to making contributions to the peace, stability, development, and prosperity of the two ancient civilizations in Asia and the world, Wang said.
Besides being the Foreign Minister, Wang is a member of the powerful political bureau of the ruling Communist Party and China's Special Representative for the India-China border mechanism.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is the Special Representative from the Indian side.
Misri's visit to China followed last month's talks between Wang and Doval under the Special Representatives mechanism.
After his arrival here on Sunday, Misri met Liu Jianchao, head of the influential International Department of the ruling Communist Party, which sets the tone for China's foreign policy.
The two sides exchanged views on jointly implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, strengthening exchanges and dialogues, and promoting the improvement and healthy and stable development of China-India relations, as well as international and regional issues of common concern, official media reported.
The visit of Misri, India's former Ambassador to China, is taking place ahead of the celebrations of China's Spring Festival and the Chinese New Year, beginning on January 29, during which the country will officially shut down for a week. 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION audience.

India news: Misri is here on a two-day visit for talks with Chinese officials to improve India-China relations, in the second such high-profile visit from India to China.

India and China should meet each other halfway and commit themselves to mutual understanding rather than mutual suspicion, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday as he met Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Beijing. Misri is in Beijing on a two-day visit for talks with Chinese officials to improve India-China relations in the second such high-profile visit from India to China in less than one-and-a-half months. Also read: 'AI's Sputnik moment': China's 'cheap' AI app DeepSeek overtakes billion-dollar ChatGPT In his meeting with Misri, Wang said that since the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia last year, the two sides have earnestly implemented the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, carried out active interactions at all levels, and accelerated the process of improving China-India relations, said a press release issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry here. "The two sides should seize the opportunity, meet each other halfway, explore more substantive measures, and commit to mutual understanding, mutual support, and mutual achievement, rather than mutual suspicion, mutual alienation, and mutual consumption," Wang said. The improvement and development of China-India relations is in the fundamental interests of the two countries and their peoples, and is conducive to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the global South countries, he said. Also read: Drug kingpin arrested after wife’s social media posts reveal location Good relations between India and China are also conducive to making contributions to the peace, stability, development, and prosperity of the two ancient civilizations in Asia and the world, Wang said. Besides being the Foreign Minister, Wang is a member of the powerful political bureau of the ruling Communist Party and China's Special Representative for the India-China border mechanism. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is the Special Representative from the Indian side. Misri's visit to China followed last month's talks between Wang and Doval under the Special Representatives mechanism. After his arrival here on Sunday, Misri met Liu Jianchao, head of the influential International Department of the ruling Communist Party, which sets the tone for China's foreign policy. The two sides exchanged views on jointly implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, strengthening exchanges and dialogues, and promoting the improvement and healthy and stable development of China-India relations, as well as international and regional issues of common concern, official media reported. The visit of Misri, India's former Ambassador to China, is taking place ahead of the celebrations of China's Spring Festival and the Chinese New Year, beginning on January 29, during which the country will officially shut down for a week. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

‘Mutual understanding over mutual suspicion’: Chinese Foreign Minister, Indian Foreign Secretary hold key talks

Law enforcement officials from the US Department of Homeland Security have started visiting gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey to check for the presence of illegal immigrants, drawing a sharp reaction from some Sikh organisations that see such actions as a threat to the sanctity of their faith.
Some of the gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey are believed to be used as a hub by Sikh separatists along with illegal and undocumented immigrants.
Within hours of Donald Trump being sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary, Benjamine Huffman, in a directive rescinded the Biden administration&rsquo;s guidelines for the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforcement actions that thwart law enforcement in or near so-called &ldquo;sensitive&rdquo; areas.
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These &ldquo;sensitive&rdquo; areas included places of worship like gurdwaras and churches.
&ldquo;This action empowers the brave men and women in CBP and ICE to enforce our immigration laws and catch criminal aliens&mdash;including murderers and rapists&mdash;who have illegally come into our country,&rdquo; a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said.
&ldquo;Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America&rsquo;s schools and churches to avoid arrest. The Trump administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement and instead trusts them to use common sense,&rdquo; the spokesperson said.
In a statement, the Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDF) expressed grave concern over the directive rescinding the guidelines that designated &ldquo;sensitive areas&rdquo; such as houses of worship, where immigration enforcement actions were previously restricted.
"This troubling shift in policy comes in tandem with community reports of DHS agents visiting gurdwaras in the New York and New Jersey areas just days after the directive was issued," SALDF said.
&ldquo;We are deeply alarmed by the Department of Homeland Security&rsquo;s decision to eliminate protections for sensitive areas and then target places of worship like gurdwaras,&rdquo; said Kiran Kaur Gill, executive director of SALDEF.
Gill said gurdwaras are not just places of worship; they are vital community centres that provide support, nourishment, and spiritual solace to Sikhs and the broader community.
"Targeting these spaces for enforcement actions threatens the sanctity of our faith and sends a chilling message to immigrant communities nationwide,&rdquo; Gill said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-joint-parliamentary-committee-clears-waqf-amendment-bill-amid-opposition-uproar-8658267">India: Joint Parliamentary Committee clears Waqf Amendment Bill amid opposition uproar</a>
Sikh Coalition said the Trump administration&rsquo;s decision to rescind the DHS policy on &ldquo;protected areas&rdquo; (which also included hospitals, schools, social service providers, and more) opens the door to Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducting surveillance, investigations, arrests, and raids at gurdwaras."
&ldquo;The idea that our gurdwaras could be subject to government surveillance and raids by armed law enforcement with or without warrants is unacceptable to the Sikh faith tradition. It will burden religious exercise by limiting the ability of Sikhs to gather and associate with one another in accordance with our faith,&rdquo; the Sikh Coalition said.
&ldquo;It also harkens to dark periods in our collective memory when governments interfered in the ability of Sikhs to practice our faith freely&mdash;with deadly consequences,&rdquo; it said.
"If Sikhs&mdash;whether documented or undocumented&mdash;are concerned with gurdwara raids and surveillance, gurdwaras may well be impacted by decreased attendance, and thus an inability to carry out essential religious practices in a meaningful manner," said Sikh Coalition.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

World | India News: Some of the gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey are believed to be used as a hub by Sikh separatists along with illegal and undocumented immigrants.

Law enforcement officials from the US Department of Homeland Security have started visiting gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey to check for the presence of illegal immigrants, drawing a sharp reaction from some Sikh organisations that see such actions as a threat to the sanctity of their faith. Some of the gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey are believed to be used as a hub by Sikh separatists along with illegal and undocumented immigrants. Within hours of Donald Trump being sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary, Benjamine Huffman, in a directive rescinded the Biden administration’s guidelines for the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforcement actions that thwart law enforcement in or near so-called “sensitive” areas. Also read: 'Born again': Mixed emotions as Palestinians return to 'demolished' homes in northern Gaza These “sensitive” areas included places of worship like gurdwaras and churches. “This action empowers the brave men and women in CBP and ICE to enforce our immigration laws and catch criminal aliens—including murderers and rapists—who have illegally come into our country,” a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said. “Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest. The Trump administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement and instead trusts them to use common sense,” the spokesperson said. In a statement, the Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDF) expressed grave concern over the directive rescinding the guidelines that designated “sensitive areas” such as houses of worship, where immigration enforcement actions were previously restricted. "This troubling shift in policy comes in tandem with community reports of DHS agents visiting gurdwaras in the New York and New Jersey areas just days after the directive was issued," SALDF said. “We are deeply alarmed by the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to eliminate protections for sensitive areas and then target places of worship like gurdwaras,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, executive director of SALDEF. Gill said gurdwaras are not just places of worship; they are vital community centres that provide support, nourishment, and spiritual solace to Sikhs and the broader community. "Targeting these spaces for enforcement actions threatens the sanctity of our faith and sends a chilling message to immigrant communities nationwide,” Gill said. Also read: India: Joint Parliamentary Committee clears Waqf Amendment Bill amid opposition uproar Sikh Coalition said the Trump administration’s decision to rescind the DHS policy on “protected areas” (which also included hospitals, schools, social service providers, and more) opens the door to Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducting surveillance, investigations, arrests, and raids at gurdwaras." “The idea that our gurdwaras could be subject to government surveillance and raids by armed law enforcement with or without warrants is unacceptable to the Sikh faith tradition. It will burden religious exercise by limiting the ability of Sikhs to gather and associate with one another in accordance with our faith,” the Sikh Coalition said. “It also harkens to dark periods in our collective memory when governments interfered in the ability of Sikhs to practice our faith freely—with deadly consequences,” it said. "If Sikhs—whether documented or undocumented—are concerned with gurdwara raids and surveillance, gurdwaras may well be impacted by decreased attendance, and thus an inability to carry out essential religious practices in a meaningful manner," said Sikh Coalition. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Homeland Security agents raid gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey for illegal immigrants

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) approved the Waqf Amendment Bill on Monday, introducing 14 changes to the proposed draft. The bill, which aims to reform the management of Muslim charitable properties, was initially tabled in August last year.
<h2>Opposition amendments rejected &nbsp;</h2>
Out of 66 proposed amendments, only those from BJP members were accepted. The opposition's suggestions were rejected. The committee, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, has 16 members from the BJP or its allies and 10 from opposition parties.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-elelctions-2025-aap-chief-arvind-kejriwal-releases-party-manifesto-for-upcoming-polls-8657270">Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 &lsquo;guarantees&rsquo;</a>
Pal said, "...44 amendments were discussed. In detailed discussions (spread) over six months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... 14 were accepted by the committee on the basis of a majority (vote). Opposition also suggested amendments... each was put to a vote. There were 10 votes supporting theirs (suggested amendments) and 16 votes opposing it..."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | After the meeting of the JPC on Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, its Chairman BJP MP Jagdambika Pal says, "...44 amendments were discussed. After detailed discussions over the course of 6 months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... So, 14&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/LEcFXr8ENP">pic.twitter.com/LEcFXr8ENP</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883792113693036625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Tensions in the meeting</h2>
The meeting saw a heated exchange as opposition MPs accused the chairman of ignoring their input. Opposition MPs, including Kalyan Banerjee and Asaduddin Owaisi, were suspended for disrupting the proceedings.
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahakumbh-2025-over-130-million-pilgrims-take-holy-dip-so-far-8656573"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahakumbh-2025-over-130-million-pilgrims-take-holy-dip-so-far-8656573">Mahakumbh 2025: Over 130 million pilgrims take holy dip so far</a>
<h2>Opposition's allegations</h2>
Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee called the process a &ldquo;farce,&rdquo; claiming that opposition members were silenced. He alleged an &ldquo;undeclared emergency&rdquo; in the committee's functioning.&nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-modi-dhankhar-laugh-after-indonesias-subianto-says-he-has-indian-dna-8656857"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-modi-dhankhar-laugh-after-indonesias-subianto-says-he-has-indian-dna-8656857">Watch | Modi, Dhankhar in splits after Indonesia's Subianto says he has 'Indian DNA'</a>
<h2>Chairman&rsquo;s response</h2>
Jagdambika Pal denied the allegations, asserting that the process was democratic and reflected the majority's decision.&nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-arrives-in-china-for-two-day-visit-talks-expected-on-lac-situation-8657240"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-arrives-in-china-for-two-day-visit-talks-expected-on-lac-situation-8657240">Indian foreign secretary arrives in China for two-day visit; talks expected on LAC situation</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Out of 66 proposed amendments, only those from the ruling BJP were accepted. The opposition's suggestions were rejected. The committee, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, has 16 members from the BJP and allies and 10 from opposition parties.

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) approved the Waqf Amendment Bill on Monday, introducing 14 changes to the proposed draft. The bill, which aims to reform the management of Muslim charitable properties, was initially tabled in August last year. Opposition amendments rejected Out of 66 proposed amendments, only those from BJP members were accepted. The opposition's suggestions were rejected. The committee, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, has 16 members from the BJP or its allies and 10 from opposition parties. Also Read | Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 ‘guarantees’ Pal said, "...44 amendments were discussed. In detailed discussions (spread) over six months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... 14 were accepted by the committee on the basis of a majority (vote). Opposition also suggested amendments... each was put to a vote. There were 10 votes supporting theirs (suggested amendments) and 16 votes opposing it..." #WATCH | After the meeting of the JPC on Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, its Chairman BJP MP Jagdambika Pal says, "...44 amendments were discussed. After detailed discussions over the course of 6 months, we sought amendments from all members. This was our final meeting... So, 14… pic.twitter.com/LEcFXr8ENP — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2025 Tensions in the meeting The meeting saw a heated exchange as opposition MPs accused the chairman of ignoring their input. Opposition MPs, including Kalyan Banerjee and Asaduddin Owaisi, were suspended for disrupting the proceedings. Also Read | Mahakumbh 2025: Over 130 million pilgrims take holy dip so far Opposition's allegations Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee called the process a “farce,” claiming that opposition members were silenced. He alleged an “undeclared emergency” in the committee's functioning. Also Read | Watch | Modi, Dhankhar in splits after Indonesia's Subianto says he has 'Indian DNA' Chairman’s response Jagdambika Pal denied the allegations, asserting that the process was democratic and reflected the majority's decision. Also Read | Indian foreign secretary arrives in China for two-day visit; talks expected on LAC situation (With inputs from agencies)

India: Joint Parliamentary Committee clears Waqf Amendment Bill amid opposition uproar

A person suspected to be suffering from Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) passed away in Maharashtra's Solapur, as per the state's Health Department.
The deceased, suspected to be a patient of GBS, was working in Pune and had gone to his native district Solapur. As of January 26, a total of 101 cases relating to Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) have been reported in the Pune district of Maharashtra, according to an official statement from the Maharashtra Public Health Department.
Out of these 101 cases, 81 cases are reported from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 14 from Pimpri Chinchwad, and 6 from other parts of the district.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-guillain-barr%C3%A9-syndrome-rare-disorder-pune-8648237" rel="dofollow">What is Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome, a rare disorder affecting 59 people in Pune?</a>
The affected individuals include 68 males and 33 females, with 16 patients currently being on ventilators.
The state Health Department has also issued guidelines for the residents of the district. It reads, "Care should be taken to keep the water quality good. For example, drinking boiled water. Food should be fresh and clean. Infection can be avoided also by not keeping cooked and uncooked food items together."
The Health Department appealed to the citizens not to panic and visit a government hospital in case any symptoms were seen.
As per the officials, the common symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) include sudden weakness in hands or legs/ paralysis; trouble while walking or weakness with sudden onset and diarrhoea (for sustained periods).
The state government has already taken several measures as of now. A state-level rapid response team visited the affected area while Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and rural district authorities have been instructed to increase surveillance activities.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-first-guillain-barre-syndrome-death-reported-in-maharashtra-amid-rising-cases-in-pune-8655876" rel="dofollow">First Guillain-Barre Syndrome death reported in Maharashtra amid rising cases in Pune</a>
As per the Health Department, water samples from different parts of the city have been sent for chemical and biological analysis to the Public Health Laboratory.
The state government has also increased "house-to-house surveillance activities" and a total of 25,578 houses have been surveyed in the Pune district.
Guillain-Barre syndrome is a condition in which the body's immune system attacks the nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness or paralysis. Weakness and tingling in the hands and feet are usually the first symptoms.&nbsp;
These sensations can quickly spread and may lead to paralysis. Most people with the condition need treatment in a hospital. Guillain-Barre syndrome is rare, and the exact cause is not known.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

As per the Health Department, water samples from different parts of the city have been sent for chemical and biological analysis to the Public Health Laboratory.

A person suspected to be suffering from Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) passed away in Maharashtra's Solapur, as per the state's Health Department. The deceased, suspected to be a patient of GBS, was working in Pune and had gone to his native district Solapur. As of January 26, a total of 101 cases relating to Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) have been reported in the Pune district of Maharashtra, according to an official statement from the Maharashtra Public Health Department. Out of these 101 cases, 81 cases are reported from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 14 from Pimpri Chinchwad, and 6 from other parts of the district. Also read | What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare disorder affecting 59 people in Pune? The affected individuals include 68 males and 33 females, with 16 patients currently being on ventilators. The state Health Department has also issued guidelines for the residents of the district. It reads, "Care should be taken to keep the water quality good. For example, drinking boiled water. Food should be fresh and clean. Infection can be avoided also by not keeping cooked and uncooked food items together." The Health Department appealed to the citizens not to panic and visit a government hospital in case any symptoms were seen. As per the officials, the common symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) include sudden weakness in hands or legs/ paralysis; trouble while walking or weakness with sudden onset and diarrhoea (for sustained periods). The state government has already taken several measures as of now. A state-level rapid response team visited the affected area while Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and rural district authorities have been instructed to increase surveillance activities. Also read | First Guillain-Barre Syndrome death reported in Maharashtra amid rising cases in Pune As per the Health Department, water samples from different parts of the city have been sent for chemical and biological analysis to the Public Health Laboratory. The state government has also increased "house-to-house surveillance activities" and a total of 25,578 houses have been surveyed in the Pune district. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a condition in which the body's immune system attacks the nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness or paralysis. Weakness and tingling in the hands and feet are usually the first symptoms. These sensations can quickly spread and may lead to paralysis. Most people with the condition need treatment in a hospital. Guillain-Barre syndrome is rare, and the exact cause is not known. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Guillain-Barre syndrome in India's Maharashtra: Cases in state climb to 101, one death reported from Solapur

Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome: Around 59 people were diagnosed with Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome (GBS) in India's Pune on Thursday (Jan 23). Around 12 out of the total infected are on ventilators due to the rare neurological disorder. The health ministry of Maharashtra has launched an investigation to assess the sudden increase in the number of patients with the disorder.
Health professionals explain that bacterial or viral infections more often cause GBS as they weaken the immunity of the human body.&nbsp;
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<h2>What is Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome?&nbsp;</h2>
Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder in which the immune system of the body attacks the nervous system. This process leads to the body becoming weakened, numb, and even paralysed.&nbsp;
The condition is also dangerous, as the exact cause of it is still unknown.&nbsp;
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<h2>Symptoms of the Guillain-Barr&eacute; disorder&nbsp;</h2>
Health experts say that in the majority of cases, the body experiences the symptoms of an infection six weeks before the symptoms of GBS occur.
The preliminary symptoms are respiratory illness or a gastrointestinal infection. And when the symptoms of GBS start in the body, it leads to weakness that starts from the feet, moves to the legs, and then the body. After covering the arms and face, it ends by capturing the breathing muscles.
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The person suffering from the disorder often experiences difficulty in climbing stairs or even walking.&nbsp;
As per the US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the brain may also experience some abnormal sensory signals due to nerve damage when they are suffering from GBS.&nbsp;
The disorder further has a list of symptoms that include vision difficulty, problems in swallowing, speaking or chewing, and prickly pain in hands and feet. The pain gets severe during the night, and the person faces abnormal heart rate or blood pressure.&nbsp;
<h2>What's the cure?&nbsp;</h2>
To diagnose the disorder, a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test is conducted in which the nerve's ability to send a signal is measured.&nbsp;
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At present, there is no cure for GBS. The best the patient can get is therapy to get relief from the symptoms of the condition.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News | Health and Wellness | Health professionals explained that bacterial or viral infections more often cause GBS as they weaken the immunity of the human body. 

Guillain-Barré Syndrome: Around 59 people were diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in India's Pune on Thursday (Jan 23). Around 12 out of the total infected are on ventilators due to the rare neurological disorder. The health ministry of Maharashtra has launched an investigation to assess the sudden increase in the number of patients with the disorder. Health professionals explain that bacterial or viral infections more often cause GBS as they weaken the immunity of the human body. Also read: All We Imagine As Light Oscar hopes dashed, Netflix's Anuja bags nomination for Best live-action short film What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome? Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder in which the immune system of the body attacks the nervous system. This process leads to the body becoming weakened, numb, and even paralysed. The condition is also dangerous, as the exact cause of it is still unknown. Also read: 'Nothing less than revolution,' US President Donald Trump addresses Davos summit; promises massive tax cuts Symptoms of the Guillain-Barré disorder Health experts say that in the majority of cases, the body experiences the symptoms of an infection six weeks before the symptoms of GBS occur. The preliminary symptoms are respiratory illness or a gastrointestinal infection. And when the symptoms of GBS start in the body, it leads to weakness that starts from the feet, moves to the legs, and then the body. After covering the arms and face, it ends by capturing the breathing muscles. Also read: Thailand's same-sex marriage law takes effect, hundreds wed The person suffering from the disorder often experiences difficulty in climbing stairs or even walking. As per the US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the brain may also experience some abnormal sensory signals due to nerve damage when they are suffering from GBS. The disorder further has a list of symptoms that include vision difficulty, problems in swallowing, speaking or chewing, and prickly pain in hands and feet. The pain gets severe during the night, and the person faces abnormal heart rate or blood pressure. What's the cure? To diagnose the disorder, a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test is conducted in which the nerve's ability to send a signal is measured. Also read: Germany: One month to elections, after Scholz govt collapse At present, there is no cure for GBS. The best the patient can get is therapy to get relief from the symptoms of the condition. (With inputs from agencies)

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare disorder affecting 59 people in Pune?

Kashmir is once again experiencing an intense cold wave, with temperatures plummeting several degrees below freezing. Watch this report for more details!

India: Severity of cold wave intensifies across J&K and Ladakh

As the 'Chillai Kalan' - coldest period of 40 days in the Kashmir Valley - is nearing its end, the temperatures across Kashmir Valley and Ladakh have drastically dropped yet again. The cold wave conditions during the nights have returned with most part of the region recording below freezing temperatures.
Jammu and Kashmir, including Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar on Monday recording a minimum temperature of minus 5.5 degrees Celsius.
The severity of the cold wave across the region has intensified further due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are dipping every day.
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South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Khudwani area in South Kashmir saw the night temperature settle at minus 6.5 degrees. The tourist resort of Pahalgam recorded a minimum of minus 6.4 degrees while Shopian district observed a minimum of 6.1 degrees Celsius. The World Famous Ski resort of Gulmarg, in North Kashmir's Baramulla district experienced a freezing night temperature of minus 5.2 degrees, while the minimum in Sonamarg was minus 6.6 degrees. &nbsp;
South Kashmir's Pulwama district saw the minimum temperature settle at minus 6.1 degrees. Bandipora recorded a night temperature of 4.7 and Baramulla was at minus 3.6 degrees. &nbsp;
Ladakh region has been battling cold wave conditions as well. The Leh town recorded a minimum temperature of minus 11.7 degrees. While Kargil was at minus 14.3 degrees. Dras was at minus 22.5 degrees while the coldest place in North India still remains Zojila at minus 24 degrees.
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The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and will be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rain and snow.
Meanwhile, for the next 24 hours the Met department has predicted clear skies and further dip in temperature. The weather will be dry till January 29 and thereafter until January 31, there are chances of snow across various parts of the region.

India News | Jammu and Kashmir, including Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar on Monday recording a minimum temperature of minus 5.5 degrees Celsius.

As the 'Chillai Kalan' - coldest period of 40 days in the Kashmir Valley - is nearing its end, the temperatures across Kashmir Valley and Ladakh have drastically dropped yet again. The cold wave conditions during the nights have returned with most part of the region recording below freezing temperatures. Jammu and Kashmir, including Ladakh have been battling severe cold wave conditions for the last many weeks with Srinagar on Monday recording a minimum temperature of minus 5.5 degrees Celsius. The severity of the cold wave across the region has intensified further due to clear skies and no precipitation. Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the division are dipping every day. Also Read: Vande Bharat train reaches Srinagar for the first time ever in successful trial run South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Khudwani area in South Kashmir saw the night temperature settle at minus 6.5 degrees. The tourist resort of Pahalgam recorded a minimum of minus 6.4 degrees while Shopian district observed a minimum of 6.1 degrees Celsius. The World Famous Ski resort of Gulmarg, in North Kashmir's Baramulla district experienced a freezing night temperature of minus 5.2 degrees, while the minimum in Sonamarg was minus 6.6 degrees. South Kashmir's Pulwama district saw the minimum temperature settle at minus 6.1 degrees. Bandipora recorded a night temperature of 4.7 and Baramulla was at minus 3.6 degrees. Ladakh region has been battling cold wave conditions as well. The Leh town recorded a minimum temperature of minus 11.7 degrees. While Kargil was at minus 14.3 degrees. Dras was at minus 22.5 degrees while the coldest place in North India still remains Zojila at minus 24 degrees. Also Read: Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: NASA astronaut shares breathtaking PICS of 'well lit' Kumbh from space station The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and will be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rain and snow. Meanwhile, for the next 24 hours the Met department has predicted clear skies and further dip in temperature. The weather will be dry till January 29 and thereafter until January 31, there are chances of snow across various parts of the region.

Srinagar freezes at minus 5.5 degrees, while Zojila remains the coldest at minus 24

Delhi polls: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Jan 27) released his party's manifesto, which features 15 guarantees for the upcoming election.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
दिल्ली की जनता से हमारा रिश्ता वादों का नहीं बल्कि गारंटी का है। ये &ldquo;केजरीवाल की गारंटी&rdquo; हैं। जो कहा है, वो करके दिखाएंगे। <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a> जी LIVE <a href="https://t.co/6E4OWkHxDr">https://t.co/6E4OWkHxDr</a>
&mdash; Aam Aadmi Party Delhi (@AAPDelhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AAPDelhi/status/1883766690829443264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The AAP party chief said that they were releasing "Kejriwal ki Gurantee" for the upcoming polls, which is a surety. Slamming PM Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, he said that the right-wing party calls its promises "Sankalp Patra," or something like that but "everyone knows that their promises are fake"
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Invoking Modi's 2014 promises of giving ₹15 Lakh (around $17,000) to citizens, Kejriwal said that later "Modi's right-hand man", Home Minister Amit Shah accepted that the promise was "chunavi jumla" (electoral hyperbole).
"Amit Shah said it was all 'chunavi jumla'. Whatever the BJP, Congress, and other parties announce during elections are just 'chunavi jumlas'," says the AAP national convenor.
The AAP chief claimed that if the BJP comes to power, the monthly burden of people will increase by ₹25,000.
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<h2>AAP's guarantees</h2>
These are some of the promises included in the AAP manifesto for Delhi polls:
<ul>
<li>Under the Mahila Samman Yojana, women will get assured monthly financial support of ₹2,100.</li>
<li>Free bus travel for students, 50 per cent concession in metro fares.</li>
<li>For senior citizens, the Sanjeevani Yojana will provide free healthcare facilities.</li>
<li>Six existing 'revdis' (freebies) including free education, healthcare, bus rides for women, water, electricity to continue.</li>
<li>"Robust" job creation for Delhi residents.</li>
<li>Waive outstanding "hiked" water bills.</li>
<li>Round-the-clock supply of clean drinking water to every household in the national capital.</li>
<li>Among other key promises is a commitment to clean the polluted Yamuna River and make Delhi's roads world-class.</li>
<li>Under the Babasaheb Ambedkar Scholarship Yojana, the party has pledged scholarships for SC and ST students to study abroad.</li>
<li>Free bus rides and a 50 per cent discount on Delhi Metro fares for all students.</li>
<li>The manifesto further promises Rs 18,000 monthly financial aid to priests and Gurudwara Granthis and the extension of free electricity and water benefits to tenants.</li>
<li>A commitment to improving Delhi's sewage system.</li>
<li>Ration cards to be issued to those left out of the system, and offering financial support to auto and cab drivers.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The party has also promised INR one lakh (around $1150) for their daughters' weddings and Rs 10 lakh insurance cover.</li>
<li>Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to be provided funds to hire security guards and address local safety concerns.</li>
</ul>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Understand the political landscape as Kejriwal critiques BJP's past election tactics, aiming to position AAP as the credible choice in the upcoming Delhi elections.

Delhi polls: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Jan 27) released his party's manifesto, which features 15 guarantees for the upcoming election. दिल्ली की जनता से हमारा रिश्ता वादों का नहीं बल्कि गारंटी का है। ये “केजरीवाल की गारंटी” हैं। जो कहा है, वो करके दिखाएंगे। @ArvindKejriwal जी LIVE https://t.co/6E4OWkHxDr — Aam Aadmi Party Delhi (@AAPDelhi) January 27, 2025 The AAP party chief said that they were releasing "Kejriwal ki Gurantee" for the upcoming polls, which is a surety. Slamming PM Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, he said that the right-wing party calls its promises "Sankalp Patra," or something like that but "everyone knows that their promises are fake" Also read | India: 'Vote from home' a threat to democracy, says AAP. Here's what Election Commission replies Invoking Modi's 2014 promises of giving ₹15 Lakh (around $17,000) to citizens, Kejriwal said that later "Modi's right-hand man", Home Minister Amit Shah accepted that the promise was "chunavi jumla" (electoral hyperbole). "Amit Shah said it was all 'chunavi jumla'. Whatever the BJP, Congress, and other parties announce during elections are just 'chunavi jumlas'," says the AAP national convenor. The AAP chief claimed that if the BJP comes to power, the monthly burden of people will increase by ₹25,000. Also read | Delhi polls: Amit Shah launches third part of BJP manifesto AAP's guarantees These are some of the promises included in the AAP manifesto for Delhi polls: Under the Mahila Samman Yojana, women will get assured monthly financial support of ₹2,100. Free bus travel for students, 50 per cent concession in metro fares. For senior citizens, the Sanjeevani Yojana will provide free healthcare facilities. Six existing 'revdis' (freebies) including free education, healthcare, bus rides for women, water, electricity to continue. "Robust" job creation for Delhi residents. Waive outstanding "hiked" water bills. Round-the-clock supply of clean drinking water to every household in the national capital. Among other key promises is a commitment to clean the polluted Yamuna River and make Delhi's roads world-class. Under the Babasaheb Ambedkar Scholarship Yojana, the party has pledged scholarships for SC and ST students to study abroad. Free bus rides and a 50 per cent discount on Delhi Metro fares for all students. The manifesto further promises Rs 18,000 monthly financial aid to priests and Gurudwara Granthis and the extension of free electricity and water benefits to tenants. A commitment to improving Delhi's sewage system. Ration cards to be issued to those left out of the system, and offering financial support to auto and cab drivers. The party has also promised INR one lakh (around $1150) for their daughters' weddings and Rs 10 lakh insurance cover. Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to be provided funds to hire security guards and address local safety concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 ‘guarantees’

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri arrived here Sunday for a two-day visit during which he will hold talks with Chinese officials, in the second such high-profile visit from India to China in less than one-and-a-half months.
The visit of Misri, who was also the former Ambassador to China, is taking place on Republic Day ahead of the celebrations of China's Spring Festival and the Chinese New Year, beginning on January 29, during which the country will officially shut down for a week.
Soon after his arrival, Misri met Liu Jianchao, head of the influential International Department of the ruling Communist Party, which sets the tone for China's foreign policy.
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The two sides exchanged views on jointly implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, strengthening exchanges and dialogues, and promoting the improvement and healthy and stable development of China-India relations, as well as international and regional issues of common concern, state-run Global Times reported.
The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that Foreign Secretary Misri will be visiting Beijing on January 26 and 27 "for a meeting of the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism between India and China".
"The resumption of this bilateral mechanism flows from the agreement at the leadership level to discuss the next steps for India-China relations, including in the political, economic, and people-to-people domains," it said in a brief statement.
On Friday, China welcomed Misri's visit and sounded positive about its outcome, saying the development followed a series of interactions between top leaders and officials from both countries after over four years of stalled ties over the Ladakh military standoff.
"We welcome Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri's travel to China for the meeting of the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism between China and India," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning told a media briefing here.
Mao said that last October, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached important common understandings on improving and growing bilateral relations during their meeting in October on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia.
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Recently, both sides have acted to earnestly implement these common understandings, she said.
Chinese and Indian foreign and defence ministers met each other on multilateral occasions.
This was followed by the 23rd meeting between Special Representatives (SRs) of China and India on the boundary issue last month.
SRs National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 23rd meeting of the mechanism in December after a gap of five years. The meeting concluded with positive outcomes.
Mao said that during talks, both sides agreed to improve and strengthen the interactions and resume institutional dialogues as well as exchanges and cooperation in various fields, including working on bringing the China-India relations back on track with sound and steady growth at an early date.
After Doval's visit, Misri is the second high-level Indian official to travel to Beijing in about a month.
It is expected that the two sides will touch upon several issues at the talks, including ways to de-escalate the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
China has been proposing to resume direct flights between the two countries and facilitate the issuance of visas to Chinese citizens.
The decision to revive the SR mechanism and other such dialogue formats was taken during the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi in Kazan.
The Modi-Xi meeting came two days after India and China firmed up a disengagement pact for Depsang and Demchok, the last two friction points in eastern Ladakh.
In the SR dialogue, India pressed for a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable settlement of the overall boundary dispute between the two countries.
Also watch | World DNA: China secretly trying to gain control of Japan's Okinawa
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2701_WION_DNA_OKINAWA_8AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2701_WION_DNA_OKINAWA_8AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=182&amp;tags=china, japan, okinawa," title="China secretly trying to gain control of Japan's Okinawa" id="PL_iframe_block-m6ep2g0s-3dn4llal-fhz7sy83"></iframe>
Doval and Wang also focused on a "positive" direction for cross-border cooperation, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, river data sharing and border trade.
India has maintained that its ties with China cannot be normal unless there is peace in the border areas.
Following the completion of the disengagement process in Demchok and Depsang, Indian and Chinese militaries also resumed patrolling activities in the two areas after a gap of almost four-and-a-half years.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India News | Mistri's visit comes ahead of China's Spring Festival and the Chinese New Year, during which the country will officially shut down for a week. 

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri arrived here Sunday for a two-day visit during which he will hold talks with Chinese officials, in the second such high-profile visit from India to China in less than one-and-a-half months. The visit of Misri, who was also the former Ambassador to China, is taking place on Republic Day ahead of the celebrations of China's Spring Festival and the Chinese New Year, beginning on January 29, during which the country will officially shut down for a week. Soon after his arrival, Misri met Liu Jianchao, head of the influential International Department of the ruling Communist Party, which sets the tone for China's foreign policy. Also read | Amid military standoff with China, Indian Army sets up first high-altitude firing range in Arunachal Pradesh The two sides exchanged views on jointly implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, strengthening exchanges and dialogues, and promoting the improvement and healthy and stable development of China-India relations, as well as international and regional issues of common concern, state-run Global Times reported. The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that Foreign Secretary Misri will be visiting Beijing on January 26 and 27 "for a meeting of the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism between India and China". "The resumption of this bilateral mechanism flows from the agreement at the leadership level to discuss the next steps for India-China relations, including in the political, economic, and people-to-people domains," it said in a brief statement. On Friday, China welcomed Misri's visit and sounded positive about its outcome, saying the development followed a series of interactions between top leaders and officials from both countries after over four years of stalled ties over the Ladakh military standoff. "We welcome Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri's travel to China for the meeting of the Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister mechanism between China and India," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning told a media briefing here. Mao said that last October, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached important common understandings on improving and growing bilateral relations during their meeting in October on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. Also read | India, China seek peace and tranquility on border, agree to resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Recently, both sides have acted to earnestly implement these common understandings, she said. Chinese and Indian foreign and defence ministers met each other on multilateral occasions. This was followed by the 23rd meeting between Special Representatives (SRs) of China and India on the boundary issue last month. SRs National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 23rd meeting of the mechanism in December after a gap of five years. The meeting concluded with positive outcomes. Mao said that during talks, both sides agreed to improve and strengthen the interactions and resume institutional dialogues as well as exchanges and cooperation in various fields, including working on bringing the China-India relations back on track with sound and steady growth at an early date. After Doval's visit, Misri is the second high-level Indian official to travel to Beijing in about a month. It is expected that the two sides will touch upon several issues at the talks, including ways to de-escalate the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. China has been proposing to resume direct flights between the two countries and facilitate the issuance of visas to Chinese citizens. The decision to revive the SR mechanism and other such dialogue formats was taken during the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi in Kazan. The Modi-Xi meeting came two days after India and China firmed up a disengagement pact for Depsang and Demchok, the last two friction points in eastern Ladakh. In the SR dialogue, India pressed for a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable settlement of the overall boundary dispute between the two countries. Also watch | World DNA: China secretly trying to gain control of Japan's Okinawa Doval and Wang also focused on a "positive" direction for cross-border cooperation, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, river data sharing and border trade. India has maintained that its ties with China cannot be normal unless there is peace in the border areas. Following the completion of the disengagement process in Demchok and Depsang, Indian and Chinese militaries also resumed patrolling activities in the two areas after a gap of almost four-and-a-half years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian foreign secretary arrives in China for two-day visit; talks expected on LAC situation

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest for the celebrations of India's 76th Republic Day on January 26 (Sunday).&nbsp;
Following the celebrations, Indian President Droupadi Murmu hosted a dinner for Subianto.
During the dinner, Subianto joked about having Indian DNA which sparked laughter from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and others.
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The video of the interaction has gone viral on social media.
<h2>Watch: 'I was told that I have Indian DNA...'</h2>
Addressing the banquet, Indonesia President Subianto said that a few weeks ago he underwent a genetic sequencing test and a DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) test.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | "...A few weeks ago I had my genetic sequencing test and my DNA test and they told me that I have Indian DNA. Everybody knows when I hear Indian music, I start dancing...", says Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto at the banquet hosted by President Droupadi&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/N7f0EpLamZ">pic.twitter.com/N7f0EpLamZ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883546494122475966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Subianto said that after these tests, he was told that he had Indian DNA.
"...they told me that I have Indian DNA. Everybody knows when I hear Indian music, I start dancing...," Subianto said and his remarks caused laughter and applause from Prime Minister Modi, Vice President Dhankhar and others present for the dinner.
<h2>'Influence of Indian civilisation is very strong...'</h2>
During the dinner,&nbsp;Subianto also highlighted India and Indonesia "have a long, ancient history together."
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"We have civilisational links, even now a very important part of our language comes from Sanskrit," Subianto said.&nbsp;
"Many names of Indonesia are actually Sanskrit names and in our daily life, the influence of ancient Indian civilization is very strong. I think it's also part of our genetics...," the Indonesian president added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Indian | Trending | During the dinner, Indonesia's Subianto also highlighted India and Indonesia "have a long, ancient history together." He added 

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest for the celebrations of India's 76th Republic Day on January 26 (Sunday). Following the celebrations, Indian President Droupadi Murmu hosted a dinner for Subianto. During the dinner, Subianto joked about having Indian DNA which sparked laughter from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and others. Also read | PM Modi picks up waste at Kartavya Path during Republic Day celebrations The video of the interaction has gone viral on social media. Watch: 'I was told that I have Indian DNA...' Addressing the banquet, Indonesia President Subianto said that a few weeks ago he underwent a genetic sequencing test and a DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) test. #WATCH | Delhi | "...A few weeks ago I had my genetic sequencing test and my DNA test and they told me that I have Indian DNA. Everybody knows when I hear Indian music, I start dancing...", says Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto at the banquet hosted by President Droupadi… pic.twitter.com/N7f0EpLamZ — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2025 Subianto said that after these tests, he was told that he had Indian DNA. "...they told me that I have Indian DNA. Everybody knows when I hear Indian music, I start dancing...," Subianto said and his remarks caused laughter and applause from Prime Minister Modi, Vice President Dhankhar and others present for the dinner. 'Influence of Indian civilisation is very strong...' During the dinner, Subianto also highlighted India and Indonesia "have a long, ancient history together." Also read | Google Doodle honours India’s 76th Republic Day with an ecological theme "We have civilisational links, even now a very important part of our language comes from Sanskrit," Subianto said. "Many names of Indonesia are actually Sanskrit names and in our daily life, the influence of ancient Indian civilization is very strong. I think it's also part of our genetics...," the Indonesian president added. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Modi, Dhankhar in splits after Indonesia's Subianto says he has 'Indian DNA'

Over 13 crore (130 million) pilgrims have taken the holy dip so far on the banks of Sangam as the mega festival of Mahakumbh 2025 is being celebrated with great enthusiasm and excitement, drawing believers in Sanatan culture from all walks of life across the country and the world.
Sunday witnessed another sea of pilgrims congregating along the banks of Sangam. A massive crowd estimated at hundreds of thousands took the holy dip.
Figures suggested that over 1.74 crore (174 million) people took the holy dip till 8.30 p.m. on Sunday.
Till January 26, a total of 13.21 (130.2 million) crore pilgrims took the holy dip of faith.
As per the data, the number went dramatically high on Sunday compared to Saturday as the number of pilgrims who took the holy dip on January 25 was 11.47 crore(110.4 million).
Besides, till Sunday, over 10 lakh Kalpavasis took the holy bath.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav also took a dip of faith.
Samajwadi Party leaders and workers were also present along with Akhilesh Yadav.&nbsp;
Akhilesh Yadav took a bath in the Sangam and offered 'Arghya' to the Sun.
Later, interacting with the mediapersons, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said: "I have taken a total of 11 dips. Let's take a resolve today that a positive message should come out of the Mahakumbh. Whenever we remember Kumbh, the spirit of harmony, goodwill and tolerance always remain. I had earlier taken a bath in Haridwar, and today I got a chance to take a bath in Sangam."
Meanwhile, a sea of devotees has started converging in Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh ahead of Mauni Amavasya, the biggest snan (bathing day) of the two-month long mela.
With the weekend rush ahead of the auspicious day, the city is witnessing a surge of pilgrims from all corners. Railway stations, bus stops, and highways are brimming with pilgrims, all eager to reach Sangam for taking a holy dip on the day.
In the past two days (Friday and Saturday), over 1.25 crore devotees have taken bath at the Sangam. The crowd is expected to swell significantly, with an estimated 8-10 crore devotees expected to take bath on the day of Mauni Amavasya.
The fair administration and Kumbh police have implemented extensive preparations, to ensure a seamless experience for the devotees.
To maintain order and ensure smooth movement, the entire fair area has been declared a no-vehicle zone. Rapid progress is being made to install barricades along the banks to manage the crowd effectively.
Special arrangements have been made across all sectors and zones to facilitate the movement of devotees. No special protocol will be applicable during the Amrit Snan festival to prioritise public convenience.
The Integrated Control and Command Center (ICCC) has been activated to monitor crowd density and ensure that no excessive gathering takes place.
Quick-response teams have been deployed in high-density areas to handle emergencies, while major routes are being closely monitored. Surveillance is also being conducted to track suspicious individuals and prevent any untoward incidents.
Devotees are being encouraged to download the official chatbot of the fair. This chatbot provides comprehensive information to make their journey more convenient. In addition to the chatbot, Google navigation and on-ground police personnel will assist pilgrims in finding the correct routes.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Advanced monitoring systems and quick-response teams are in place to handle emergencies, enhancing safety and convenience for all attending the Mahakumbh.

Over 13 crore (130 million) pilgrims have taken the holy dip so far on the banks of Sangam as the mega festival of Mahakumbh 2025 is being celebrated with great enthusiasm and excitement, drawing believers in Sanatan culture from all walks of life across the country and the world. Sunday witnessed another sea of pilgrims congregating along the banks of Sangam. A massive crowd estimated at hundreds of thousands took the holy dip. Figures suggested that over 1.74 crore (174 million) people took the holy dip till 8.30 p.m. on Sunday. Till January 26, a total of 13.21 (130.2 million) crore pilgrims took the holy dip of faith. As per the data, the number went dramatically high on Sunday compared to Saturday as the number of pilgrims who took the holy dip on January 25 was 11.47 crore(110.4 million). Besides, till Sunday, over 10 lakh Kalpavasis took the holy bath. Meanwhile, on Sunday, former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav also took a dip of faith. Samajwadi Party leaders and workers were also present along with Akhilesh Yadav. Akhilesh Yadav took a bath in the Sangam and offered 'Arghya' to the Sun. Later, interacting with the mediapersons, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said: "I have taken a total of 11 dips. Let's take a resolve today that a positive message should come out of the Mahakumbh. Whenever we remember Kumbh, the spirit of harmony, goodwill and tolerance always remain. I had earlier taken a bath in Haridwar, and today I got a chance to take a bath in Sangam." Meanwhile, a sea of devotees has started converging in Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh ahead of Mauni Amavasya, the biggest snan (bathing day) of the two-month long mela. With the weekend rush ahead of the auspicious day, the city is witnessing a surge of pilgrims from all corners. Railway stations, bus stops, and highways are brimming with pilgrims, all eager to reach Sangam for taking a holy dip on the day. In the past two days (Friday and Saturday), over 1.25 crore devotees have taken bath at the Sangam. The crowd is expected to swell significantly, with an estimated 8-10 crore devotees expected to take bath on the day of Mauni Amavasya. The fair administration and Kumbh police have implemented extensive preparations, to ensure a seamless experience for the devotees. To maintain order and ensure smooth movement, the entire fair area has been declared a no-vehicle zone. Rapid progress is being made to install barricades along the banks to manage the crowd effectively. Special arrangements have been made across all sectors and zones to facilitate the movement of devotees. No special protocol will be applicable during the Amrit Snan festival to prioritise public convenience. The Integrated Control and Command Center (ICCC) has been activated to monitor crowd density and ensure that no excessive gathering takes place. Quick-response teams have been deployed in high-density areas to handle emergencies, while major routes are being closely monitored. Surveillance is also being conducted to track suspicious individuals and prevent any untoward incidents. Devotees are being encouraged to download the official chatbot of the fair. This chatbot provides comprehensive information to make their journey more convenient. In addition to the chatbot, Google navigation and on-ground police personnel will assist pilgrims in finding the correct routes. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mahakumbh 2025: Over 130 million pilgrims take holy dip so far

The Sri Lankan Navy arrested at least 34 Indian fishermen and seized three trawlers for illegal fishing in two separate incidents, the authorities said on Sunday (Jan 26). The fishermen have been arrested for illegal fishing in two separate incidents on January 25 and 26, the Navy said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-eu-looking-to-firm-up-security-defence-partnerships-8655741">India, EU looking to firm up security, defence partnerships</a> Both arrests came off the coast of the northeastern Mannar district in the Navy's continued regular patrols in the Sri Lankan waters to curb illegal fishing, the Navy said.
The arrested fishermen have been handed over to the relevant officials for further action.
The Indian High Commission earlier this week said some 41 Indian fishermen who had been similarly arrested previously for poaching in Sri Lankan waters were repatriated.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-mule-indian-armys-robotic-dog-that-steels-show-at-republic-day-parade-8655647">Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steals the show at Republic Day parade</a>
On January 12, eight Indian fishermen were arrested and two fishing trawlers were seized.
The fishermen issue is a contentious one in the ties between India and Sri Lanka, with Lankan Navy personnel even firing at Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait and seizing their boats in several alleged incidents of illegally entering Sri Lankan territorial waters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/republic-day-2025-9-rare-and-unseen-photos-from-indias-first-republic-day-parade-8653251">Republic Day 2025: 9 rare and unseen photos from India&rsquo;s first Republic Day parade</a>
The Palk Strait, a narrow strip of water separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, is a rich fishing ground for fishermen from both countries.
Fishermen from both countries are arrested frequently for inadvertently trespassing into each other's waters.
In 2024, the island nation's Navy arrested 529 Indian fishermen for allegedly poaching in Sri Lankan waters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-why-republic-day-is-hosted-at-kartavya-path-8653026">Republic Day 2025: Why Republic Day is hosted at Kartavya Path?</a>
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
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India News | Both arrests came off the coast of the northeastern Mannar district in the Navy's continued regular patrols in the Sri Lankan waters to curb illegal fishing, the Navy said.

The Sri Lankan Navy arrested at least 34 Indian fishermen and seized three trawlers for illegal fishing in two separate incidents, the authorities said on Sunday (Jan 26). The fishermen have been arrested for illegal fishing in two separate incidents on January 25 and 26, the Navy said. Also read: India, EU looking to firm up security, defence partnerships Both arrests came off the coast of the northeastern Mannar district in the Navy's continued regular patrols in the Sri Lankan waters to curb illegal fishing, the Navy said. The arrested fishermen have been handed over to the relevant officials for further action. The Indian High Commission earlier this week said some 41 Indian fishermen who had been similarly arrested previously for poaching in Sri Lankan waters were repatriated. Also read: Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steals the show at Republic Day parade On January 12, eight Indian fishermen were arrested and two fishing trawlers were seized. The fishermen issue is a contentious one in the ties between India and Sri Lanka, with Lankan Navy personnel even firing at Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait and seizing their boats in several alleged incidents of illegally entering Sri Lankan territorial waters. Also read: Republic Day 2025: 9 rare and unseen photos from India’s first Republic Day parade The Palk Strait, a narrow strip of water separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, is a rich fishing ground for fishermen from both countries. Fishermen from both countries are arrested frequently for inadvertently trespassing into each other's waters. In 2024, the island nation's Navy arrested 529 Indian fishermen for allegedly poaching in Sri Lankan waters. Also read: Republic Day 2025: Why Republic Day is hosted at Kartavya Path? Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sri Lanka arrests 34 Indian fishermen, seizes three trawlers for illegal fishing

ANI | Prime Minister Narendra Modi set a powerful example on India's 76th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/republic-day-2025" rel="dofollow">Republic Day</a> on Sunday by picking up waste on the Kartavya Path, promoting the concept of plogging and the goal of 'Swacch Bharat' (Clean India).
This gesture, witnessed by thousands, highlighted the importance of cleanliness and community involvement in maintaining public spaces.
PM Modi noticed waste on Kartavya Path and picked it up while receiving Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar. PM Modi has emphasised from time to time to be involved in cleanliness acts to ensure a 'Swacch Bharat'.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-mule-indian-armys-robotic-dog-that-steels-show-at-republic-day-parade-8655647" rel="dofollow">Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steals the show at Republic Day parade</a>
This act was particularly significant, given PM Modi's previous emphasis on plogging and community-led initiatives to achieve a cleaner India. In November of last year, he hailed a plogging group in 'Mann Ki Baat' who has been working to clean Ganga ghats in Kanpur.
In December of last year, the Ministry of Defence organised a massive plogging programme at more than 400 locations throughout the country as part of the activities of Swachhta Pakhwada.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-pm-modi-dons-yet-another-bright-red-and-yellow-turban-for-republic-day-2025-celebrations-8654677" rel="dofollow"> Indian PM Modi dons yet another bright-coloured turban for Republic Day 2025</a>
Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, followed by the national anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto joined the celebration as the chief guest of this year.
This year, Republic Day highlights the 75 years since the enactment of the Constitution and emphasises "Jan Bhagidari" (people's participation).
PM Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, situated at India Gate, and paid tribute to the brave hearts who laid down their lives for the country, following which President Murmu unfurled the national flag, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worlds-largest-democracy-us-sends-warm-wishes-to-india-on-its-76th-republic-day-8654355" rel="dofollow">'World's largest democracy': US sends warm wishes to India on 76th Republic Day</a>
Around 10,000 special guests were invited to witness the parade, in line with the government's objective to increase 'Jan Bhagidari' in events of national importance. These special guests from different walks of life were the architects of 'Swarnim Bharat'. They include the best performers in various fields and those who have made the best use of the schemes of the government.
Tableaux from 16 state governments and Union Territories and 10 ministries and departments of the Central Government highlighting the theme 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas' participated in the parade this year.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: This gesture by PM Modi, witnessed by thousands, highlighted the importance of cleanliness and community involvement in maintaining public spaces.

ANI | Prime Minister Narendra Modi set a powerful example on India's 76th Republic Day on Sunday by picking up waste on the Kartavya Path, promoting the concept of plogging and the goal of 'Swacch Bharat' (Clean India). This gesture, witnessed by thousands, highlighted the importance of cleanliness and community involvement in maintaining public spaces. PM Modi noticed waste on Kartavya Path and picked it up while receiving Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar. PM Modi has emphasised from time to time to be involved in cleanliness acts to ensure a 'Swacch Bharat'. Also read: Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steals the show at Republic Day parade This act was particularly significant, given PM Modi's previous emphasis on plogging and community-led initiatives to achieve a cleaner India. In November of last year, he hailed a plogging group in 'Mann Ki Baat' who has been working to clean Ganga ghats in Kanpur. In December of last year, the Ministry of Defence organised a massive plogging programme at more than 400 locations throughout the country as part of the activities of Swachhta Pakhwada. Also read: Indian PM Modi dons yet another bright-coloured turban for Republic Day 2025 Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, followed by the national anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto joined the celebration as the chief guest of this year. This year, Republic Day highlights the 75 years since the enactment of the Constitution and emphasises "Jan Bhagidari" (people's participation). PM Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, situated at India Gate, and paid tribute to the brave hearts who laid down their lives for the country, following which President Murmu unfurled the national flag, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini. Also read: 'World's largest democracy': US sends warm wishes to India on 76th Republic Day Around 10,000 special guests were invited to witness the parade, in line with the government's objective to increase 'Jan Bhagidari' in events of national importance. These special guests from different walks of life were the architects of 'Swarnim Bharat'. They include the best performers in various fields and those who have made the best use of the schemes of the government. Tableaux from 16 state governments and Union Territories and 10 ministries and departments of the Central Government highlighting the theme 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas' participated in the parade this year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi picks up waste at Kartavya Path during Republic Day celebrations

As Maha Kumbh Mela, which is currently being held in India's Uttar Pradesh, is breaking several records, Prayagraj received its first international flight in 93 years after Steve Jobs's wife Laurene Powell Jobs landed at Prayagraj airport in a Bhutan Airways plane.&nbsp;
After attending the Maha Kumbh Mela, she flew back to Bhutan on the same plane.&nbsp;
This sets a new record as such a thing has not happened in the last 93 years.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-devotees-and-seers-from-russia-ukraine-pray-for-peace-in-prayagraj-8648648" rel="dofollow">Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees and seers from Russia, Ukraine pray for peace in Prayagraj</a>
<h2>How is it record-breaking?</h2>
Prayagraj Airport was one of the first international airports in India. The first international flight flew to London until 1932, after which international flights were discontinued.&nbsp;
However, this year, the Maha Kumbh Mela saw an international flight again, carrying the American billionaire to the Prayagraj Airport.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/never-been-to-such-crowded-place-steve-jobss-wife-laurene-powell-falls-ill-at-maha-kumbh-mela-8621510" rel="dofollow"> 'Never been to such crowded place', Steve Jobs' wife falls ill at Maha Kumbh</a>
Notably, in 1911, Henri Piquet initiated domestic commercial aviation in India by flying mail from Allahabad to Naini.
Powell's visit to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/maha-kumbh-2025" rel="dofollow">Maha Kumbh Mela </a>attracted significant attention. During her visit, she also adopted the name "Kamala" and participated in the traditional Kalpavas ritual, which includes daily baths in sacred rivers, meditation, and a strict vegetarian diet.&nbsp;
However, she fell ill on the second day of the Kumbh. Swami Kailashanand said that Powell Jobs developed allergies due to the crowded and unfamiliar environment.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/steve-jobs-wife-denied-permission-to-touch-shivling-at-kashi-vishwanath-temple-heres-why-8618375" rel="dofollow">Steve Jobs' wife denied permission to touch Shivling at Kashi Vishwanath Temple; Here's why</a>
She stayed in the camp of spiritual leader Swami Kailashanand Giri.&nbsp;
Maha Kumbh is one of the largest and most significant religious congregations in the world, held every 12 years at one of four locations in India. It began on January 13 and will continue until February 26.&nbsp;
Uttar Pradesh police deployed over 10,000 personnel, including local police and paramilitary forces, for the event's security. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed a "water ambulance" stationed at Sangam to ensure the safety of devotees.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Prayagraj Airport was one of the first international airports in India, and the first international flight flew to London in 1932, after which it got discontinued. 

As Maha Kumbh Mela, which is currently being held in India's Uttar Pradesh, is breaking several records, Prayagraj received its first international flight in 93 years after Steve Jobs's wife Laurene Powell Jobs landed at Prayagraj airport in a Bhutan Airways plane. After attending the Maha Kumbh Mela, she flew back to Bhutan on the same plane. This sets a new record as such a thing has not happened in the last 93 years. Also read: Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees and seers from Russia, Ukraine pray for peace in Prayagraj How is it record-breaking? Prayagraj Airport was one of the first international airports in India. The first international flight flew to London until 1932, after which international flights were discontinued. However, this year, the Maha Kumbh Mela saw an international flight again, carrying the American billionaire to the Prayagraj Airport. Also read: 'Never been to such crowded place', Steve Jobs' wife falls ill at Maha Kumbh Notably, in 1911, Henri Piquet initiated domestic commercial aviation in India by flying mail from Allahabad to Naini. Powell's visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela attracted significant attention. During her visit, she also adopted the name "Kamala" and participated in the traditional Kalpavas ritual, which includes daily baths in sacred rivers, meditation, and a strict vegetarian diet. However, she fell ill on the second day of the Kumbh. Swami Kailashanand said that Powell Jobs developed allergies due to the crowded and unfamiliar environment. Also read: Steve Jobs' wife denied permission to touch Shivling at Kashi Vishwanath Temple; Here's why She stayed in the camp of spiritual leader Swami Kailashanand Giri. Maha Kumbh is one of the largest and most significant religious congregations in the world, held every 12 years at one of four locations in India. It began on January 13 and will continue until February 26. Uttar Pradesh police deployed over 10,000 personnel, including local police and paramilitary forces, for the event's security. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed a "water ambulance" stationed at Sangam to ensure the safety of devotees. (With inputs from agencies)

Maha Kumbh : Laurene Powell Jobs's flight at Prayagraj Airport breaks 93-year-old record. Here's why

'MULE' (Multi Utility Legged Equipment), the robotic dogs of the Indian Army, won hearts on Sunday (Jan 26) during the 76th Republic Day parade in Kolkata. The robot, named 'Sanjay', is an all-weather ground robot dog with an excellent capacity for climbing stairs, steep hills, and crossing hurdles.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/republic-day-2025-state-and-ministries-display-their-tableaux">Republic day 2025: State and ministries display their tableaux</a>
The Army said that 'Sanjay' is designed to perform some specific operations such as perimeter security, protecting assets, and even for chemical-biological-nuclear warfare scenarios. Some other areas where the robot can be used are explosives detection and disposal, intelligence, and surveillance.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6dijfpq-pev1xmth-v5e9u12y">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee takes part in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> celebrations at Kolkata. (Source: Mamata Banerjee Social Media) <a href="https://t.co/1KUWOvFFvL">pic.twitter.com/1KUWOvFFvL</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883387674285019446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
Apart from being operated in extreme weather conditions, from -40 degrees to 55 degrees Celsius, the robot can also carry a weight of 15 kg.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-live-us-extends-greetings-to-india-on-republic-day-8654335">India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates</a>
Authorities said that at least 100 robot dogs have been deployed in various units of the Indian Army so far.&nbsp;
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose unfurled the national flag at the Red Road in Kolkata at the event that was also attended by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/republic-day-2025-nari-shakti-state-tableaux-light-up-kartavya-path-parade">Republic Day 2025: 'Nari-shakti', state tableaux light up Kartavya Path parade</a>
Contingents of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, West Bengal Police, Kolkata Police, Rapid Action Force, and Disaster Management Group were part of the parade in Kolkata. Various cultural dances were also performed at the event by different school kids.&nbsp;
<h2>The tableau at Kartavya Path&nbsp;</h2>
At the Republic Day Parade in Delhi, West Bengal's tableau highlighted the 'Lakshmir Bhandar' scheme of the state. Under the scheme, a monthly income for women is guaranteed. The tableau further showcased the state's 'Lok Prasar Prakalpa' initiative, which highlighted the rich culture and heritage of West Bengal.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/republic-day-2025-marching-contingents-31-tableaux-parade-at-kartavya-path">Republic Day 2025: Marching contingents, 31 tableaux parade at Kartavya Path</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
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India News | SCIENCE & TECH | The robot, named 'Sanjay', is an all-weather ground robot dog with an excellent capacity for climbing stairs, steep hills, and crossing hurdles. 

'MULE' (Multi Utility Legged Equipment), the robotic dogs of the Indian Army, won hearts on Sunday (Jan 26) during the 76th Republic Day parade in Kolkata. The robot, named 'Sanjay', is an all-weather ground robot dog with an excellent capacity for climbing stairs, steep hills, and crossing hurdles. WATCH: Republic day 2025: State and ministries display their tableaux The Army said that 'Sanjay' is designed to perform some specific operations such as perimeter security, protecting assets, and even for chemical-biological-nuclear warfare scenarios. Some other areas where the robot can be used are explosives detection and disposal, intelligence, and surveillance. #WATCH | West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee takes part in #RepublicDay2025 celebrations at Kolkata. (Source: Mamata Banerjee Social Media) pic.twitter.com/1KUWOvFFvL — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2025 Apart from being operated in extreme weather conditions, from -40 degrees to 55 degrees Celsius, the robot can also carry a weight of 15 kg. Also read: India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates Authorities said that at least 100 robot dogs have been deployed in various units of the Indian Army so far. West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose unfurled the national flag at the Red Road in Kolkata at the event that was also attended by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. WATCH: Republic Day 2025: 'Nari-shakti', state tableaux light up Kartavya Path parade Contingents of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, West Bengal Police, Kolkata Police, Rapid Action Force, and Disaster Management Group were part of the parade in Kolkata. Various cultural dances were also performed at the event by different school kids. The tableau at Kartavya Path At the Republic Day Parade in Delhi, West Bengal's tableau highlighted the 'Lakshmir Bhandar' scheme of the state. Under the scheme, a monthly income for women is guaranteed. The tableau further showcased the state's 'Lok Prasar Prakalpa' initiative, which highlighted the rich culture and heritage of West Bengal. WATCH: Republic Day 2025: Marching contingents, 31 tableaux parade at Kartavya Path (With inputs from agencies)

Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steals the show at Republic Day parade

The first death in Maharashtra linked to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) has been reported as cases of the rare neurological disorder continue to rise in Pune.
<h2>First fatality from Guillain-Barre Syndrome in the state</h2>
Maharashtra has witnessed its first fatality due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), with a Pune resident succumbing to the illness. The victim, a Chartered Accountant from the DSK Vishwa locality in Pune, had been experiencing diarrhoea for several days before visiting his native Solapur district. After feeling weak, he sought treatment at a private hospital in Solapur, where doctors diagnosed him with GBS. Despite showing signs of improvement and being transferred out of the ICU, the patient later developed breathing complications and passed away on Saturday.
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Pune has emerged as the epicentre of the ongoing GBS outbreak, with 73 confirmed cases. Of these, 14 are in critical condition and are on ventilators. The situation is alarming, with nine new suspected cases reported just on Saturday. Local authorities have heightened their vigilance, and the Pune Municipal Corporation is closely monitoring the situation.
<h2>Understanding Guillain-Barre Syndrome</h2>
Guillain-Barre Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the body&rsquo;s immune system attacks the nerves, leading to sudden weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis. Common symptoms include diarrhoea, stomach pain, fever and nausea. Early diagnosis is crucial for preventing life-threatening complications, such as respiratory failure.
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<h2>&nbsp;Authorities respond to the growing outbreak</h2>
In response to the spike in cases, the Union Health Ministry has sent a specialised team to Pune. Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar noted that water contamination could be a possible source of the infection. As part of the state&rsquo;s response, GBS has now been included in the Mahatma Phule Jan Aarogya Yojana, a health insurance scheme aimed at providing care for those affected by the disorder.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News | Guillain-Barre Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves, leading to sudden weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis.

The first death in Maharashtra linked to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) has been reported as cases of the rare neurological disorder continue to rise in Pune. First fatality from Guillain-Barre Syndrome in the state Maharashtra has witnessed its first fatality due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), with a Pune resident succumbing to the illness. The victim, a Chartered Accountant from the DSK Vishwa locality in Pune, had been experiencing diarrhoea for several days before visiting his native Solapur district. After feeling weak, he sought treatment at a private hospital in Solapur, where doctors diagnosed him with GBS. Despite showing signs of improvement and being transferred out of the ICU, the patient later developed breathing complications and passed away on Saturday. Also Read | Want to quit smoking? This Turkish man's bizarre idea could motivate you to do so Pune has emerged as the epicentre of the ongoing GBS outbreak, with 73 confirmed cases. Of these, 14 are in critical condition and are on ventilators. The situation is alarming, with nine new suspected cases reported just on Saturday. Local authorities have heightened their vigilance, and the Pune Municipal Corporation is closely monitoring the situation. Understanding Guillain-Barre Syndrome Guillain-Barre Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves, leading to sudden weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis. Common symptoms include diarrhoea, stomach pain, fever and nausea. Early diagnosis is crucial for preventing life-threatening complications, such as respiratory failure. Also Read | Watch: Over 3,000 engineers line up for job interviews in India's Pune, video goes viral Authorities respond to the growing outbreak In response to the spike in cases, the Union Health Ministry has sent a specialised team to Pune. Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar noted that water contamination could be a possible source of the infection. As part of the state’s response, GBS has now been included in the Mahatma Phule Jan Aarogya Yojana, a health insurance scheme aimed at providing care for those affected by the disorder. (With inputs from agencies)

India | First Guillain-Barre Syndrome death reported in Maharashtra amid rising cases in Pune

Hours after Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleged that the 'vote-from-home' system for elderly citizens is a "threat to democracy," the Election Commission (EC) responded. Sharing a video on the social media platform X, AAP alleged that BJP workers were accompanying poll officials to the homes of the elderly. The EC replied by saying representatives of all the parties are allowed to join election officials during the home visits of elderly voters.&nbsp;
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In a purported video shared by the party (WION can not verify the authenticity of the video), an elderly woman said that five people, along with BJP workers, were with the poll officials during the home visit at her residence. AAP accused the election commission of snatching the voting rights of people in Delhi in collaboration with BJP.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6dletz5-sljtg7mc-qmbcw4jm">
BJP चुनाव आयोग के साथ मिलकर दिल्ली में लोगों के मताधिकार को छीन रही है ‼️ आज बुजुर्गों को घर से मतदान कराए जाने के दौरान चुनाव आयोग के अधिकारियों के अलावा बीजेपी के कार्यकर्ता भी साथ थे। चुनाव आयोग अब खुलकर बीजेपी के साथ दिख रहा है। यह भारतीय लोकतंत्र के लिए बेहद ही खतरनाक है। <a href="https://t.co/d1ZzNTXf37">pic.twitter.com/d1ZzNTXf37</a>
&mdash; AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1883164169761083522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Today, BJP workers accompanied poll officials during the 'vote-from-home' exercise for the elderly. The Election Commission is now openly with the BJP. This is very dangerous for the Indian democracy," the post read.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bjp-leader-parvesh-verma-takes-swipe-at-arvind-kejriwal-with-main-fail-ho-gaya-poster-ahead-of-delhi-polls-8652867">India | BJP leader Parvesh Verma takes swipe at Arvind Kejriwal with 'Main fail ho gaya' poster ahead of Delhi polls</a>
The office of Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz released a statement on the series of charges. The statement said that the 'vote from home' facility is for people above the age of 85 and people with special needs so that can vote from the comfort of their homes.&nbsp;
"And for Delhi, we have received 6447 applications for Senior citizens and 1058 applications for PwD electors, and till today almost 1271 Senior citizens and 120 PwD voters have exercised their voting right. Once the application is approved, a polling team, including election officials and security personnel, will visit the voter's residence before the official polling date i.e. 5 Feb 2025. The entire process and route plan would be disclosed with all the Contesting Candidates of the Assembly Constituency and the candidates themselves or their authorized representatives are permitted to accompany the polling team," the statement added.&nbsp;
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It further added that the 'vote from home' exercise uses the ballot method of voting.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6dlfft5-ioqdwvwb-slb3a4n0">
Your vote, your power, at your doorstep ! 🏡 Elderly voters in Delhi delightfully showcasing their inked finger after casting their vote through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HomeVoting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HomeVoting</a> facility. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiDecides?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiDecides</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ECI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ECI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilliDilseVoteKaregi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilliDilseVoteKaregi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Elections2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Elections2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AssemblyElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AssemblyElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/2RzZWkpVtS">pic.twitter.com/2RzZWkpVtS</a>
&mdash; Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/1882734021593244050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
"The team will provide the voter with a ballot paper and ensure the voting process is conducted confidentially and transparently as per the prescribed guidelines pr ECI in this reference. The entire process will be videographed to maintain transparency," the CEO's office said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polls-bjp-vows-free-education-for-needy-in-manifesto-corruption-probe-against-aap-kejriwal-hits-back-8641160">Delhi polls: BJP vows free education for needy in manifesto, corruption probe against AAP; Kejriwal hits back</a>
"To clarify again, Voters who opt for this Home Voting facility will not be permitted to vote at polling stations on election day also this Home voting option is voluntary. To submit, it is to highlight that this initiative marks a significant step towards inclusive voting, ensuring that senior citizens and persons with disabilities can participate in the electoral process with greater ease," it further added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: The EC replied by saying representatives of all the parties are allowed to join election officials during the home visits of elderly voters. 

Hours after Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleged that the 'vote-from-home' system for elderly citizens is a "threat to democracy," the Election Commission (EC) responded. Sharing a video on the social media platform X, AAP alleged that BJP workers were accompanying poll officials to the homes of the elderly. The EC replied by saying representatives of all the parties are allowed to join election officials during the home visits of elderly voters. Also read: Delhi polls: Amit Shah launches third part of BJP manifesto In a purported video shared by the party (WION can not verify the authenticity of the video), an elderly woman said that five people, along with BJP workers, were with the poll officials during the home visit at her residence. AAP accused the election commission of snatching the voting rights of people in Delhi in collaboration with BJP. BJP चुनाव आयोग के साथ मिलकर दिल्ली में लोगों के मताधिकार को छीन रही है ‼️ आज बुजुर्गों को घर से मतदान कराए जाने के दौरान चुनाव आयोग के अधिकारियों के अलावा बीजेपी के कार्यकर्ता भी साथ थे। चुनाव आयोग अब खुलकर बीजेपी के साथ दिख रहा है। यह भारतीय लोकतंत्र के लिए बेहद ही खतरनाक है। pic.twitter.com/d1ZzNTXf37 — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) January 25, 2025 "Today, BJP workers accompanied poll officials during the 'vote-from-home' exercise for the elderly. The Election Commission is now openly with the BJP. This is very dangerous for the Indian democracy," the post read. Also read: India | BJP leader Parvesh Verma takes swipe at Arvind Kejriwal with 'Main fail ho gaya' poster ahead of Delhi polls The office of Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz released a statement on the series of charges. The statement said that the 'vote from home' facility is for people above the age of 85 and people with special needs so that can vote from the comfort of their homes. "And for Delhi, we have received 6447 applications for Senior citizens and 1058 applications for PwD electors, and till today almost 1271 Senior citizens and 120 PwD voters have exercised their voting right. Once the application is approved, a polling team, including election officials and security personnel, will visit the voter's residence before the official polling date i.e. 5 Feb 2025. The entire process and route plan would be disclosed with all the Contesting Candidates of the Assembly Constituency and the candidates themselves or their authorized representatives are permitted to accompany the polling team," the statement added. Also read: India | 'Modi-Shah want to play with Kejriwal’s life?' Atishi slams Punjab Police security withdrawal for AAP convener It further added that the 'vote from home' exercise uses the ballot method of voting. Your vote, your power, at your doorstep ! 🏡 Elderly voters in Delhi delightfully showcasing their inked finger after casting their vote through #HomeVoting facility. #DelhiDecides#ECI #DilliDilseVoteKaregi #Elections2025 #AssemblyElections pic.twitter.com/2RzZWkpVtS — Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) January 24, 2025 "The team will provide the voter with a ballot paper and ensure the voting process is conducted confidentially and transparently as per the prescribed guidelines pr ECI in this reference. The entire process will be videographed to maintain transparency," the CEO's office said. Also read: Delhi polls: BJP vows free education for needy in manifesto, corruption probe against AAP; Kejriwal hits back "To clarify again, Voters who opt for this Home Voting facility will not be permitted to vote at polling stations on election day also this Home voting option is voluntary. To submit, it is to highlight that this initiative marks a significant step towards inclusive voting, ensuring that senior citizens and persons with disabilities can participate in the electoral process with greater ease," it further added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 'Vote from home' a threat to democracy, says AAP. Here's what Election Commission replies

The chief minister of the Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Sunday (Jan 26), announced the development of a second capital. Sarma said that the Dibrugarh city of Assam will be the second capital of the state within the next three years.&nbsp;
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The CM said in a statement on Republic Day that the Assam assembly will be shifted to Dibrugarh, which is based on the banks of the Brahmaputra river.&nbsp; &nbsp; "Today is an important day in Dibrugarh's journey to become the second capital of Assam. For the first time, state celebrations are taking place in this historical city," Sarma said in his address.&nbsp;
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He further added that from the year 2027, one session of the state's assembly will take place in its second capital every year. "From January 25 next year, the construction work for a permanent building of the Assam assembly will begin. In the next three years, Dibrugarh will become an important city in India," Sarma added.&nbsp;
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He further added that along with Dibrugarh, two other cities&mdash;Tezpur and Silchar&mdash;will also be developed in the coming period.&nbsp;
"Dibrugarh will be the second capital of Assam in the next three years. We will construct a Raj Bhawan in Tezpur and develop it as the cultural capital of Assam. Silchar will have a secretariat and chief secretary's office, thereby bridging the gap between Barak Valley and Guwahati," the chief minister said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-live-us-extends-greetings-to-india-on-republic-day-8654335">India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News | The Chief Minister of the Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Sunday (Jan 26), announced the development of a second capital. 

The chief minister of the Indian state of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Sunday (Jan 26), announced the development of a second capital. Sarma said that the Dibrugarh city of Assam will be the second capital of the state within the next three years. Also read: Assam coal mine tragedy: Body of four workers retrieved as rescue ops continue The CM said in a statement on Republic Day that the Assam assembly will be shifted to Dibrugarh, which is based on the banks of the Brahmaputra river. "Today is an important day in Dibrugarh's journey to become the second capital of Assam. For the first time, state celebrations are taking place in this historical city," Sarma said in his address. Also read: Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steels show at Republic Day Parade He further added that from the year 2027, one session of the state's assembly will take place in its second capital every year. "From January 25 next year, the construction work for a permanent building of the Assam assembly will begin. In the next three years, Dibrugarh will become an important city in India," Sarma added. Also read: Watch: Over 3,000 engineers line up for job interviews in India's Pune, video goes viral He further added that along with Dibrugarh, two other cities—Tezpur and Silchar—will also be developed in the coming period. "Dibrugarh will be the second capital of Assam in the next three years. We will construct a Raj Bhawan in Tezpur and develop it as the cultural capital of Assam. Silchar will have a secretariat and chief secretary's office, thereby bridging the gap between Barak Valley and Guwahati," the chief minister said. Also read: India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates (With inputs from agencies)

India: Assam is developing its second capital in THIS city

In his Republic Day address, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge took aims at the BJP-led government, accusing it of attacking the Indian Constitution and undermining crucial national institutions. He condemned the government for fostering divisions in society through what he described as a "vicious, hateful agenda."
<h2>Constitution's core principles at risk &nbsp;</h2>
Kharge highlighted the growing threats to the foundational values of the Constitution&mdash;justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He warned, &ldquo;Every sacred tenet of the Constitution is being shredded into pieces by an authoritarian regime.&rdquo;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-know-full-schedule-special-guests-performances-and-more-8653471">Republic Day 2025: Know full schedule, special guests, performances and more</a>
<h2>Interference in institutions and erosion of federalism</h2>
The Congress leader pointed to increased political interference in independent institutions, stressing that federalism was being disregarded.&nbsp;
<h2>Concerns over Parliament and media freedom&nbsp;</h2>
Kharge expressed alarm over the functioning of Parliament, accusing the BJP of fostering a "tyrannical" atmosphere. He also criticised the government's control over the media, accusing it of turning the latter into a propaganda tool while stifling dissenting voices.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-live-us-extends-greetings-to-india-on-republic-day-8654335">India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates</a>
<h2>Rising attacks on marginalised communities</h2>
Kharge condemned the growing violence against minorities and marginalised communities, particularly in places like Manipur. He said that the ongoing violence was being met with a lack of accountability from the government.
<h2>Call to defend the Constitution</h2>
Kharge concluded his address with a powerful call to action, urging citizens to stand up for the Constitution and its values. He emphasised that defending these ideals would be the best way to honour the sacrifices of India&rsquo;s founders.
&nbsp;He said, &ldquo;It is high time we preserve and protect the ideas and ideals of our Constitution &ndash; justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity&hellip; Be ready to make every sacrifice to protect the Constitution. This will be the true tribute to our ancestors.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Kharge highlighted the growing threats to the foundational values of the Constitution—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He warned, “Every sacred tenet of the Constitution is being shredded into pieces by an authoritarian regime.”

In his Republic Day address, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge took aims at the BJP-led government, accusing it of attacking the Indian Constitution and undermining crucial national institutions. He condemned the government for fostering divisions in society through what he described as a "vicious, hateful agenda." Constitution's core principles at risk Kharge highlighted the growing threats to the foundational values of the Constitution—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He warned, “Every sacred tenet of the Constitution is being shredded into pieces by an authoritarian regime.” Also Read | Republic Day 2025: Know full schedule, special guests, performances and more Interference in institutions and erosion of federalism The Congress leader pointed to increased political interference in independent institutions, stressing that federalism was being disregarded. Concerns over Parliament and media freedom Kharge expressed alarm over the functioning of Parliament, accusing the BJP of fostering a "tyrannical" atmosphere. He also criticised the government's control over the media, accusing it of turning the latter into a propaganda tool while stifling dissenting voices. Also Read | India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates Rising attacks on marginalised communities Kharge condemned the growing violence against minorities and marginalised communities, particularly in places like Manipur. He said that the ongoing violence was being met with a lack of accountability from the government. Call to defend the Constitution Kharge concluded his address with a powerful call to action, urging citizens to stand up for the Constitution and its values. He emphasised that defending these ideals would be the best way to honour the sacrifices of India’s founders. He said, “It is high time we preserve and protect the ideas and ideals of our Constitution – justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity… Be ready to make every sacrifice to protect the Constitution. This will be the true tribute to our ancestors.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: Kharge slams BJP for undermining Constitution, institutions in his Republic Day address

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: India is celebrating its 76th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-why-does-the-president-hoist-the-flag-on-january-26-not-the-prime-minister-8653903" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Republic Day</a> on Sunday. The celebrations began early in the morning, drawing tens of thousands to the national capital for the grand parade.
<h2>Who is the Chief Guest?</h2>
This year's parade will see <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-who-is-the-chief-guest-list-of-previous-guests-8653442" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto</a> as the Chief Guest. In a special gesture, military contingents from Indonesia are also participate in the march-past along Kartavya Path.
The parade will feature 31 tableaux representing various states and government services, centred around the theme &lsquo;Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas&rsquo; (Golden India: Heritage and Development). For the first time, a tri-service tableau will be included, showcasing the spirit of unity and collaboration among India's Armed Forces.
<h2>Why is Republic Day celebrated?</h2>
Republic Day is celebrated to honour the day in 1950 when India&rsquo;s Constitution came into force, replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of the country.
<h2>Republic Day 2025 schedule:</h2>
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/republic-day-2025-9-rare-and-unseen-photos-from-indias-first-republic-day-parade-8653251">Republic Day parade</a> commenced at 10.30 am and will run for approximately 90 minutes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin the day's proceedings with a visit to the National War Memorial, where he will lay a wreath in honour of India&rsquo;s fallen soldiers. He will then proceed to the saluting dais at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-why-republic-day-is-hosted-at-kartavya-path-8653026">Kartavya Path</a> to witness the parade and its vibrant displays of unity and pride.

Republic Day 2025: Live blog has ended now.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi walks down Kartavya Path after conclusion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> parade, greets people . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayIndia</a> Track LIVE updates here: <a href="https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1">https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1</a> <a href="https://t.co/I8IVgtf2JU">pic.twitter.com/I8IVgtf2JU</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1883409396685848836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi walks down Kartavya Path after conclusion of parade

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | President Droupadi Murmu and President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto depart from Kartavya Path after the conclusion of 76th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳 (Source: DD News) <a href="https://t.co/pc4jxqlRwx">pic.twitter.com/pc4jxqlRwx</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883408986906743260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

President Droupadi Murmu and President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto depart from Kartavya Path after the conclusion of 76th Republic Day .

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Six Rafale jets performing the 'Vajrang' formation over Kartavya Path during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2024</a> fly-past . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayIndia</a> Track LIVE updates here: <a href="https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1">https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1</a> <a href="https://t.co/tq13x262sv">pic.twitter.com/tq13x262sv</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1883405686006055023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Six Rafale jets performing the 'Vajrang' formation

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Defence personnel perform daredevil stunts on motorcycles at the 76th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayIndia</a> Track LIVE updates here: <a href="https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1">https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1</a> <a href="https://t.co/XLeOnJc2eC">pic.twitter.com/XLeOnJc2eC</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1883401553261805621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Defence personnel perform daredevil stunts on motorcycles

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳: Uttar Pradesh's tableau showcased during the 76th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> Parade on Kartavya Path, in Delhi The tableau showcases the magnificence of &lsquo;Mahakumbh 2025 &ndash; Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas&rsquo;, which is globally recognized as "Intangible Cultural Heritage of&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/RLrWKAur7t">pic.twitter.com/RLrWKAur7t</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883402075566170441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Uttar Pradesh's tableau showcased the magnificence of ‘Mahakumbh 2025

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | 76th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳 | Tableau of the Indian Coast Guard focuses on coastal security and maritime search and rescue, under the theme &lsquo;Swarnim Bharat: Heritage and Progress&rsquo;, followed by the Tableau of Defence Research &amp; Development Organisation (DRDO) showcasing RAKSHA&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/UqXVaLrbBG">pic.twitter.com/UqXVaLrbBG</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883397378130203036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Tableau of the Indian Coast Guard focuses on coastal security and maritime search and rescue

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tri-forces veterans tableau rolls past the saluting dais on Kartavya Path in New Delhi, followed by the brass band and marching regiment of the Indian Navy<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayParade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayParade</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayIndia</a> Track LIVE updates here: <a href="https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1">https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1</a> <a href="https://t.co/CzwTUvBb8h">pic.twitter.com/CzwTUvBb8h</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1883388685602742651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Tri-forces veterans tableau rolls past the saluting dais at Kartavya Path

BrahMos, Pinaka and Aakash missile systems are on display as India showcases its military prowess at the 76th Republic Day parade.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
BrahMos, Pinaka and Aakash missile systems on display as India showcases its military prowess at the 76th Republic Day parade in New Delhi<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayIndia</a> Track LIVE updates here: <a href="https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1">https://t.co/Ynhq2tZVc1</a> <a href="https://t.co/muMTWt7LT1">pic.twitter.com/muMTWt7LT1</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1883385575308234852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Republic Day 2025 LIVE: India showcases its military prowess at Kartavya Path 

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Marching contingent and band contingent from Indonesia participate in India's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayParade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayParade</a> at the Kartavya Path, in New Delhi Indonesian President Subianto is attending the function as the chief guest this year.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jcn9WsRB4j">pic.twitter.com/Jcn9WsRB4j</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1883384320171094269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Republic Day 2025: Indonesian military takes part in parade- Watch

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76th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳 | Flower petals being showered during Republic Day Parade, in Delhi (Source: DD News) <a href="https://t.co/B5yDoREJQ3">pic.twitter.com/B5yDoREJQ3</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883382754630586783?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Flower petals being showered at Kartavya Path- Watch

The moment is here! The iconic parade at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi has started. The parade will last for a total of 90 minutes.&nbsp;

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Iconic parade at New Delhi's Kartavya Path begins

Indian President Droupadi Murmu and her Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto have arrived at the Kartavya Path for the parade.
Indonesian President Subianto is the chief guest of the event.&nbsp;
<figure class="image"><img alt="Murmu, Subianto arrive at Kartavya Path." src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/26/xyZlbRQl6d7ydSyJC1BG.png" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Murmu, Subianto arrive at Kartavya Path. Photograph: (Agencies)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Indian President Murmu, Indonesian president Subianto arrive at Kartavya Path

Modi has arrived at the Kartavya Path where the Republic Day parade would begin shortly.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Modi arrives at Kartavya Path

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday led the country in paying homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
76th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳 | Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the nation in paying homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial, in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/pIAQrGBn8V">pic.twitter.com/pIAQrGBn8V</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883374414613635527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Indian PM Modi pays homage to fallen soldiers at National War Memorial

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76th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳 | Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the National War Memorial in Delhi. He will lead the nation in paying homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial (Source: PMO/YouTube) <a href="https://t.co/FLeofKllnj">pic.twitter.com/FLeofKllnj</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1883373617398104203?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Indian PM Modi to lay wreath to fallen soldiers at National War Memorial

Delhi is on high alert ahead of the Republic Day celebrations, with over 70,000 security personnel stationed throughout the city. The national capital is under a six-layer security arrangement, involving paramilitary forces and police officers.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Delhi on heightened security alert ahead of Republic Day celebrations

On the eve of the 76th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu approved 139 Padma awards, including seven Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri. Posthumous Padma Vibhushan awards were given to former Suzuki chief Osamu Suzuki, folk singer Sharda Sinha, and Malayalam writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair. The Centre has also revealed the list of 19 Padma Bhushan awardees, which includes the late economist and author Bibek Debroy; the late ghazal legend Pankaj Udhas; Sushil Modi, the late senior BJP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar; the late Manohar Joshi, former Lok Sabha Speaker and Maharashtra Chief Minister; and Indian hockey goalkeeper P R Sreejesh, who played a key role in securing an Olympic bronze medal for the national team at Tokyo 2020.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Osamu Suzuki, Sushil Modi, R. Ashwin among Padma awardees

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Indian Army personnel celebrate the 76th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>🇮🇳 with pride, raise the national flag in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla . . . . (Video: news agency ANI) <a href="https://t.co/kI40IxAdMW">pic.twitter.com/kI40IxAdMW</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1883362715034644632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Indian Army celebrates 76th Republic Day by raising national flag in Uri

A total of 942 individuals from the police force, fire service, home guard, civil defence, and correctional services have been honored with gallantry and service medals. Among them, eight personnel from Haryana, 15 from Punjab, 10 from Jammu and Kashmir, and two from Chandigarh have received police service medals.&nbsp;Additionally, two individuals from Jammu and Kashmir and four from Haryana have been awarded the Medal for Meritorious Service in correctional services.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: 942 police and fire personnel to be honoured with gallantry awards, including 15 from Punjab

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar&nbsp;unfurled&nbsp;the national flag at his residence in Delhi on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Jaishankar unfurls national flag 

President Droupadi Murmu and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will arrive in the 'traditional buggy,' a practice that was revived in 2024 after a 40-year gap.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: President to will arrive in the 'traditional buggy,' a tradition that is over a century old

The theme for this year's Republic Day celebration and tableaux is 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas'.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: What is this year's theme for R-Day 2025?

Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan unfurled the Indian national flag at Raj Bhawan in Mumbai on Sunday.
He said, "I extend my courteous Republic Day to all the Indian brothers and sisters. It is a great day. Our democracy is the strongest democracy is the world. Our rights are protected because of the Constitution given by Babasaheb BR Ambedkar."

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: It is a great day, says Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan

Minute-by-minute programme at the National War Memorial:
<ul>
<li>9:53 AM: Defence Secretary arrives.</li>
<li>9:54 AM: Air Chief arrives.</li>
<li>9:55 AM: Navy Chief arrives.</li>
<li>9:56 AM: Army Chief arrives.</li>
<li>9:57 AM: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) arrives.</li>
<li>9:58 AM: Raksha Rajya Mantri (RRM) arrives.</li>
<li>9:59 AM: Defence Minister arrives.</li>
<li>10:05 AM: PM Modi will arrive at the National War Memorial and will be welcomed by the Defence Minister. The PM, escorted by the CDS and Service Chiefs, will proceed to pay homage.</li>
<li>10:07 AM: The PM will lay a wreath at the memorial. The Guard will present 'Salami Shastra' and 'Shok Shastra,' followed by buglers playing the 'Last Post.'</li>
<li>10:10 AM: Two minutes of silence will be observed after the 'Last Post.'</li>
<li>10:12 AM: The Guard will present 'Salami Shastra,' and the buglers will play the 'Rouse.'</li>
<li>10:14 AM: The PM will sign the Visitor&rsquo;s Book.</li>
<li>10:16 AM: The PM will proceed to the Saluting Desk at Kartavya Path.</li>
</ul>
Minute-by-minute programme at the saluting platform:
<ul>
<li>10:22 AM: The PM will reach the Saluting Desk and will be received by the Defence Minister.</li>
<li>10:25 AM: The Vice-President will arrive and will be welcomed by the PM.</li>
<li>10:27 AM: The President and Chief Guest will arrive and will be welcomed by the PM.</li>
<li>10:30 AM: The National Flag will be hoisted. The President will receive the National Salute, accompanied by the President&rsquo;s Bodyguard and Band. A 21-gun salute will follow.</li>
<li>10:31 AM: The Republic Day Parade will begin.</li>
</ul>

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Minute-by-minute schedule of today's ceremony

&nbsp;
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Happy Republic Day. Today, we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic. We bow to all the great women and men who made our Constitution and ensured that our journey is rooted in democracy, dignity and unity. May this occasion strengthen our efforts towards preserving the&hellip;
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1883335095123153333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: PM Modi congratulates Indians on 76th R-Day

Google commemorated India&rsquo;s 76th Republic Day with a unique Doodle celebrating the nation&rsquo;s biodiversity. The image, themed around Indian wildlife, highlights animals from different parts of the country marching in a Republic Day parade.
The Doodle was designed by Rohan Dahotre, a guest artist based in Pune. According to the Google Doodle information page, the animals featured in the artwork symbolise the distinct ecological diversity of India&rsquo;s regions.
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x348/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/lm-img/img/2025/01/26/original/Doodleee_1737854077386.JPG">

Republic Day 2025 Live: Google commemorates India’s 76th Republic Day with unique Doodle

President Droupadi Murmu will lead India&rsquo;s 76th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2025, at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. According to a press release by Government of India, the event will place a special emphasis on the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution&rsquo;s enactment, as well as the theme of &ldquo;Jan Bhagidari,&rdquo; or public participation.&nbsp;The celebrations will showcase the country&rsquo;s cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military strength.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-know-full-schedule-special-guests-performances-and-more-8653471" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to read more</a>

Republic Day 2025 Live: Know full schedule, special guests, performances and more

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: Watch | Indian cities decked up for Republic Day

"On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India as they celebrate their nation&rsquo;s Republic Day. &nbsp;As they commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India, we join them in recognising its enduring significance as the foundation of the world&rsquo;s largest democracy," US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio said in a statement.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: US extends greetings to India on Republic Day

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: India News | The R Day parade has commenced and will run for around 90 minutes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin the day's proceedings.

Republic Day 2025 LIVE: India is celebrating its 76th Republic Day on Sunday. The celebrations began early in the morning, drawing tens of thousands to the national capital for the grand parade. Who is the Chief Guest? This year's parade will see Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the Chief Guest. In a special gesture, military contingents from Indonesia are also participate in the march-past along Kartavya Path. The parade will feature 31 tableaux representing various states and government services, centred around the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ (Golden India: Heritage and Development). For the first time, a tri-service tableau will be included, showcasing the spirit of unity and collaboration among India's Armed Forces. Why is Republic Day celebrated? Republic Day is celebrated to honour the day in 1950 when India’s Constitution came into force, replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of the country. Republic Day 2025 schedule: The Republic Day parade commenced at 10.30 am and will run for approximately 90 minutes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin the day's proceedings with a visit to the National War Memorial, where he will lay a wreath in honour of India’s fallen soldiers. He will then proceed to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade and its vibrant displays of unity and pride.

India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates

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