Republic Day 2026 Highlights and Global Developments: School Assembly News Roundup
Today's school assembly news brings you a comprehensive overview of significant national and international developments, sports updates, business insights, and educational initiatives. This curated collection of current affairs is designed to inform and engage students, teachers, and educational communities across India.
National News: Republic Day Celebrations and Key Announcements
India celebrated its 77th Republic Day with grandeur and patriotic fervor on Monday. The main parade in New Delhi showcased the nation's military prowess through elite marching contingents, advanced missile systems, and indigenous weaponry. The event was graced by distinguished international guests, including Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, who served as chief guests for the ceremony.
In a significant security development, Rajasthan police made a major breakthrough by arresting one individual and seizing approximately 10,000 kilograms of ammonium nitrate from a farmhouse in Nagaur district. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to maintain national security and prevent potential threats.
The Government of India announced the prestigious Padma Awards on Republic Day eve, honoring exceptional contributions across various fields. The awards included:
- Padma Vibhushan (posthumously) awarded to former Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan and veteran actor Dharmendra
- Padma Bhushan conferred upon acclaimed actor Mammootty
- Padma Shri recipients including cricket captain Rohit Sharma and actor R Madhavan
The diplomatic community mourned the passing of Avtar Singh Bhasin, a former Indian diplomat and prolific foreign policy author, who died in Delhi at the age of 90. His contributions to India's international relations and scholarly work leave a lasting legacy.
International Developments: Global Perspectives and Warnings
On the global stage, former US President Bill Clinton issued a stark warning about threats to American democracy, referencing recent violence in Minneapolis and other cities. He emphasized the importance of civic engagement and defending constitutional freedoms during what he described as a critical moment for democratic institutions.
World leaders extended warm greetings to India on its Republic Day, highlighting strong bilateral partnerships, shared democratic values, and cooperative relationships across multiple regions. These messages underscored India's growing global stature and international connections.
In a notable development from the Middle East, Iranian authorities unveiled a new mural on a prominent billboard in Tehran's central square, directly warning the United States against any potential military strikes. This display coincided with the movement of US warships toward the region, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Sports Updates: Cricket Team Developments and Recovery Timelines
The sports section brings important cricket news, with Washington Sundar facing a race against time to achieve full fitness ahead of the T20 World Cup. The injured all-rounder, who suffered a rib injury during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara, requires approximately two more weeks for complete recovery. This injury caused him to miss the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand as well as the final two ODIs.
In team selection news, Shreyas Iyer will continue with the Indian squad for the remainder of the T20I series against New Zealand, while Tilak Varma is scheduled to join the team before India's warm-up match for the 2026 T20 World Cup, indicating strategic planning for the upcoming tournament.
Business and Economic Insights: Corporate Performance and Trade Negotiations
Fitch Ratings, the international credit rating agency, has projected an improvement in the financial performance of Indian corporations during FY27. The agency noted that credit metrics for Indian companies are expected to remain relatively stable, indicating positive economic momentum and corporate resilience.
In international trade developments, Indian negotiators have reportedly sought easier access to steel scrap produced within the European Union as part of ongoing trade deal discussions. This strategic move aims to mitigate the impact of the EU's new carbon emission-linked import duties that took effect on January 1, 2026, demonstrating India's proactive approach to global trade challenges.
Education Initiatives: Institutional Outreach and School Development
The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) has announced an open house event for JEE 2026 aspirants in Kota as part of its outreach program, ExperienceIITD. Scheduled for January 31, 2026, at the Auditorium of Vardhman Mahaveer Open University in Kota, this initiative aims to connect with prospective students and provide guidance about engineering education opportunities.
In Delhi, the municipal civic body revealed plans to establish 'MCD Shri' schools, modeled after the central government's 'PM Shri' schools and the Delhi government's 'CM Shri' schools. This educational initiative seeks to enhance the quality of municipal education and provide improved learning environments for students across the capital.
Today's quote for reflection comes from Theodore Roosevelt: "Believe you can, and you're halfway there." This inspirational message encourages perseverance and positive thinking as valuable life principles for students and educators alike.
