Good morning! Here is your curated news briefing for the school assembly on Monday, January 12, 2026. Today's updates span critical national developments, significant international events, and key stories from the world of sports, business, and education, curated specifically for students and educators.
National Headlines: Security, Health, and Political Developments
In the northeastern state of Manipur, a security alert has led to a major disruption. Following a bomb attack in the Bishnupur district, fuel stations across several parts of the state have been shut down indefinitely. This precautionary measure, triggered by heightened security concerns, has impacted the supply of essential commodities. Authorities have intensified security protocols in the region to manage the situation.
A shocking case of alleged medical negligence has come to light in Madhya Pradesh. At the state's largest government hospital, an infant's thumb was reportedly severed while a nurse was attempting to remove a cannula. The incident has sparked public outrage, prompting hospital officials to order a detailed inquiry. They have assured that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
Political tensions have flared in West Bengal surrounding alleged searches linked to political strategist Prashant Kishor's I-PAC. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has moved the Supreme Court in the matter, while the state government has filed a caveat. This legal and political tussle has further sharpened the ongoing tensions between the Centre and the state government.
International Updates: Evacuations, Protests, and Conflict
On the global front, the United States has issued a stern travel advisory for its citizens in Venezuela. Citing reports of increased paramilitary activity and deteriorating security conditions, the US government has advised Americans to leave the South American nation immediately.
Domestic unrest grips the United States as tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of Minneapolis. The demonstrations were triggered by a fatal shooting involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Protesters are demanding greater accountability and comprehensive reforms in law enforcement practices.
Meanwhile, the conflict in West Asia has seen a significant escalation. The United States and its allies have launched large-scale military strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria, marking a major intensification of operations in the region.
Sports, Business, and Education Roundup
In sports, chess legend Viswanathan Anand has announced his return to competitive play. The former world champion, stating he was "fed up of being bored," will participate in the upcoming Tata Steel Rapid and Blitz event in Kolkata, much to the delight of fans worldwide. In cricket, former Australian coach Jason Gillespie emphasized the crucial role of spin bowling, urging the Australian team to adapt better to subcontinent conditions to maintain their competitive edge.
The business sector in Tamil Nadu is facing anxiety over potential trade disruptions. State officials have warned that nearly 30 lakh (3 million) jobs could be at risk if fresh tariffs akin to the Trump era are re-imposed by the US. Export-oriented industries are closely monitoring policy signals from Washington. In positive infrastructure news, Indian Railways has released the route, stops, and timetable for the new New Jalpaiguri–Tiruchirappalli Amrit Bharat Express, aimed at enhancing long-distance connectivity.
For students, the Punjab government has launched Mission Pragati, an initiative to provide free coaching for competitive exams like JEE Main and Advanced 2026, specifically targeting students from government schools. In a development affecting those planning to study or work abroad, the US administration has announced an increase in fees for H-1B and other work visas, effective March 1, 2026, which will raise the cost of pursuing opportunities in the country.
Remember today's quote by Swami Vivekananda, whose birth anniversary is observed as National Youth Day on January 12: “All power is within you; you can do anything and everything. Believe in that, do not believe that you are weak.”
