The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a third launch pad at Isro's Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Estimated at Rs 3,984.8 crore, this new pad will enhance India's space capabilities, supporting future human spaceflight missions and advanced launch vehicles. Completion is expected within 48 months.

The Congress has filed a plea in the Supreme Court in favor of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, emphasizing its importance for maintaining secularism and communal harmony. They argue that any challenges to the Act could threaten India's secular fabric and fundamental constitutional principles.

The cabinet made key decisions including setting up the eighth pay commission and approved extending a special package for fertilisers. PM Modi also launched several projects, including indigenously built naval combatants and Namo Bharat trains, highlighting an action-filled year aimed at boosting growth and welfare initiatives.

Isro has successfully docked two spacecraft in space, joining an elite group of nations mastering this technology. This advances India's goal of establishing a permanent space station and fulfilling ambitious missions, including manned lunar expeditions by 2040, using the indigenous Bharatiya Docking System.

Saif Ali Khan was attacked in his Bandra residence, sparking shock and concern within the film industry. Celebrities including Parineeti Chopra, Raveena Tandon, and Pooja Bhatt raised alarms about the safety in Mumbai and demanded stronger law enforcement measures to prevent such incidents.

The Modi government announced the setting up of the eighth pay commission to benefit 1.1 crore central government employees and pensioners. This decision, made before Delhi votes, aims to enhance consumption demand and improve the quality of life. The implementation of the award is expected from 2026.

Surgeons successfully removed a 3-inch knife tip from actor Saif Ali Khan's mid-spine after an intruder attack. Khan also sustained multiple other injuries to his wrist, neck, and torso. Neurosurgeon Dr. Nitin Dange and plastic surgeon Dr. Leena Jain led the operations. Khan is currently stable and recovering in the ICU.

BJP reveals its final list of candidates for the 70 Delhi assembly seats, allocating two seats to allies JD-U and LJP-Ram Vilas, to strengthen the NDA's position ahead of the Bihar assembly polls. Notable contestants include Shikha Rai, Poonam Sharma, and Ramesh Bidhuri.

Individuals are being scrutinized by the income tax department for fraudulent claims on donations, investments, and interest payments. Extensive searches revealed bogus donations to political parties and charities, as well as false claims on loans and house rent allowances. A new procedure is prompting taxpayers to revise returns or face penalties.

BJP criticizes Rahul Gandhi for allegedly aligning with Hindenburg Research to destabilize India as the firm announces its closure. Ravi Shankar Prasad questions Gandhi's intentions and ties Hindenburg's activities to Congress's moves, insisting on their attempts to disrupt the Indian state. BJP continues its attacks following these developments.

Seven people died and over 400 were injured during jallikattu and related bull taming events across Tamil Nadu. Incidents occurred in various districts including Siravayal, Alanganallur, and Krishnagiri. In some cases, spectators and bull owners were victims. Numerous injuries were reported during these traditional events despite precautions, emphasizing the inherent risks involved in such cultural practices.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announced that the Socio-Economic and Education Survey report, dubbed the 'caste census,' will be discussed in the next cabinet meeting. The report has faced delays due to administrative concerns and pressures from various caste groups. State ministers urged inclusivity for Lingayat sub-sects.

Union home minister Amit Shah inaugurated a museum in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's hometown, Vadnagar. The museum traces the 2,500-year history of the town and highlights its cultural and historical significance. Shah also opened a sports complex and the Prerna Centre to inspire future leaders.

After 10 years, the women and child development ministry is set to present its tableau at the Republic Day parade, focusing on 'women-led development'. The tableau will highlight the role of Indian women in the 'Viksit Bharat' vision and mark significant milestones such as the 10th anniversary of the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' scheme and 50 years of anganwadi services.

India will not feature Tejas fighter jets and Dhruv advanced light helicopters in the Republic Day fly-past due to safety concerns. Twin-engine jets will participate instead. Grounding of all ALHs follows a recent crash. Delays in Tejas fighter deliveries persist, affecting India's defense readiness. The fly-past will include 40 aircraft, notably of foreign origin.

The Centre's panel on Delhi-NCR's air quality has lifted stage 4 curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan due to improved pollution levels, which had earlier prompted the ban on construction activities, entry of non-essential polluting trucks into Delhi, and mandatory shifting of school classes, except for classes 10 and 12, to hybrid mode.

The Election Commission of India has directed political parties to label AI-generated or synthetic content used in campaigns on social media with notations like ‘AI-generated’ or ‘synthetic’ to ensure transparency and accountability, informing voters about the nature of digital content shared online.

Palestinian envoy Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer emphasizes India's potential to aid Gaza post-ceasefire, highlighting historical ties and mutual respect. He praises PM Modi's regional influence and calls for India's sustained humanitarian efforts following the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage release agreement.

Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal announced the completion of all civil work at Ludhiana's Halwara Airport terminal. Collaboration with IAF is accelerating final connectivity tasks. Air India plans to commence flights post regulatory approvals. The new airport aims to drive industrial growth, boost employment, and enhance various sectors such as real estate and exports.

Congress MLA Kawasi Lakhma was arrested by the ED in connection with a multi-crore liquor scam. Congress claims the arrest is politically motivated, with Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap accusing former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel of masterminding the scheme. Congress supporters staged a protest in Sukma.

In a shocking incident, an armed intruder broke into Saif Ali Khan's Bandra residence, demanding Rs 1 crore and injuring Khan, his staff, and his son's nanny. The attack happened around 2am, waking the entire household. Police have launched an investigation, describing the suspect as a man in his late 30s with a slim build.

PM Narendra Modi celebrates India's 25th position in the first QS World Future Skills Index, noting its efforts to empower the youth with technology and innovation. India excelled in the “Future of Work” category but needs improvement in AI and green technology training. The report highlights the importance of aligning education with industry needs for future growth.

BJP allocates two Delhi assembly poll seats to allies JD(U) and LJP (Ram Vilas). JD(U) to contest from Burari and LJP from Deoli. BJP fields additional 9 candidates, including Shikha Rai and Anil Vashishth. Elections for the 70-member assembly are scheduled for February 5, with results on February 8. Candidates must file nominations by January 17.

Twelve Naxalites were killed in a fierce encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. Security personnel recovered more than ten Naxalite bodies and weapons. Over 1,500 personnel participated in the operation. The encounter is part of a larger anti-Naxalite effort in the region, with more details to emerge as the operation continues.

Karnataka minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) after it successfully concluded the docking process of two satellites.

The Bharatiya Janata Party criticizes the Congress party for relying on findings from Hindenburg Research, which recently announced its shutdown. Hindenburg's founder Nate Anderson cites personal reasons for disbanding the firm, despite past controversies and challenges, including the significant impact on the Adani Group's market valuation.

The Congress party reveals its promises for Delhi ahead of elections, including the Inflation Relief Scheme providing LPG cylinders at Rs 500 and free ration kits, and the Free Electricity Scheme offering 300 units of free electricity to households, aiming to alleviate financial burdens for citizens.

The Congress party has accused the BJP of shielding the Adani Group from scrutiny despite serious allegations highlighted by the Hindenburg report. They allege misuse of foreign policy for personal gain, monopoly creation in various sectors, and argue for a Joint Parliamentary Committee investigation.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to promote the startup ecosystem in the country by easing rules and regulations on the completion of nine years of the 'Startup India' initiative.