India Welcomes EU Leaders for Republic Day as Airlines Navigate Iran Airspace Closure
India will host top European Union leaders as chief guests for the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026. This invitation signals a significant diplomatic move to strengthen ties between India and the EU. The event will take place in New Delhi, marking a key moment in international relations.
Air Travel Disruptions Following Iran's Airspace Shutdown
Major Indian airlines have rerouted flights after Iran closed its airspace amid ongoing protests. Air India and IndiGo made immediate adjustments to their schedules to ensure passenger safety. Travelers experienced delays as carriers avoided the affected region. The closure stems from internal unrest in Iran, creating challenges for international air travel.
International Developments: Space, Politics, and Protests
NASA successfully completed its first medical evacuation from space, returning an ailing astronaut safely to Earth. The space agency confirmed the emergency operation went smoothly. The astronaut now receives proper medical care on the ground.
Former US President Donald Trump outlined potential US military intervention in Iran during the current protests. His remarks have sparked renewed debate about international responses to the situation in Tehran.
In Minneapolis, tensions rose after an ICE agent shot a Venezuelan man during a confrontation. The incident triggered fresh protests and calls for calm. It highlights ongoing divisions over federal immigration enforcement tactics in American cities.
Sports Updates: Badminton Interruption and Cricket Dispute
At the India Open badminton tournament, play stopped unexpectedly when bird droppings disrupted the match between Prannoy and Loh Kean Yew. Fans and players reacted with both amusement and frustration to the unusual interruption.
In Bangladesh, several cricket players protested against the administration of the Bangladesh Premier League. The Bangladesh Cricket Board responded by issuing show-cause notices. This dispute reveals growing tensions between players and organizers before the domestic T20 league begins.
Business and Economic News
Farmers and analysts express concern over unimplemented promises from the 2026 Union Budget's farm sector reforms. Critics warn that delays could negatively impact rural investment and economic growth momentum.
Major IT companies report margin pressure in their quarterly results, attributing this to new labour codes. The regulations have affected earnings, leading to calls for clearer compliance guidance from the government.
Education Policy Changes
The Indian government now requires all colleges and universities to form equity committees. This mandate aims to strengthen institutional safeguards against discrimination on campuses across the country.
France has expanded its "Classes Internationales" programme to seven countries. Applications for the 2026 intake are currently open, providing more opportunities for international students seeking education abroad.
Quote of the Day: "The ideal Indian youth of character will be brave, selfless, and devoted to the cause of the country." This statement is widely attributed to Indian nationalist leader Subhash Chandra Bose, whose birth anniversary falls on January 23.
