The Economic Survey argues that while climate change matters, cutting carbon emissions should not overshadow India’s broader development goals. It highlights that India’s per-capita emissions remain low and stresses prioritising economic growth, energy access, and human welfare, especially for vulnerable populations. The report suggests a balanced approach where adaptation and resilience-building are central to climate strategy, given development needs and capacity constraints. It also cautions against over-emphasising emission reductions without adequate global financial and technological support, and calls for climate action tailored to India’s national context rather than external pressure. (PC: The Hindu)

A 27-year-old Delhi Police constable and SWAT commando, Kajal, died on January 27 in a Ghaziabad hospital days after a brutal domestic assault by her husband, Ankur Chaudhary. On January 22, after a dispute at their Dwarka Mor home, Ankur allegedly struck her head repeatedly with a metal dumbbell and smashed it against a door frame. During the attack, he called Kajal’s brother, forcing him to listen to her screams and telling him to record the call and that he was going to kill her. Kajal was declared brain dead and later succumbed to her injuries; Ankur was arrested and charged with murder. (PC: HT)

Captain Sumit Kapoor, among five victims in the plane crash that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, wasn't originally scheduled to fly that day. Friends revealed he filled in for another pilot stuck in traffic, receiving orders just hours before the tragic incident. The experienced pilot had recently returned from Hong Kong. The Learjet 45, operated by VSR Ventures, crashed around 8:45 AM during a second landing approach at Baramati Airport amid poor visibility. Preliminary investigations suggest possible pilot misjudgment, though friends dismiss this, citing his extensive experience. All aboard including co-pilot Shambhavi Pathak, flight attendant Pinky Mali, and security guard Vidip Jadhav perished. (PC: NDTV)

The black box from the Learjet 45 that crashed near Baramati airstrip has been recovered, the Civil Aviation Ministry confirmed Thursday. The crash killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others. Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu wrote to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis requesting state government cooperation to expedite the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) probe, including crash site access and local administrative support. The ministry emphasized the investigation is being conducted transparently and in a time-bound manner, with AAIB and DGCA teams examining collected evidence. Officials stated key probe findings will be shared with the Maharashtra government. (PC: X)

The Beating Retreat Ceremony 2026 was held at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi, on January 29, marking the formal conclusion of India's Republic Day celebrations. The annual event showcased musical traditions of the Indian Armed Forces, featuring 30 presentations by massed bands from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces. Dating back to the 17th century, Beating Retreat originated as a battlefield practice where drums signaled troops to retreat at sunset. President of India, the Supreme Commander of Armed Forces, attended the ceremony. PM Modi emphasized India's rich military legacy, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described it as a solemn tradition embodying discipline, unity, and national pride.

A massive wildfire has been raging in Nagaland's Dzukou Valley for three days, threatening the trekkers' paradise known for its seasonal wildflowers and alpine grasses. Over 30 stranded trekkers have been evacuated as the blaze spreads toward Manipur's Mount Iso. The NDRF has been deployed, and IAF helicopters with Bambi buckets have been requisitioned for firefighting operations. Locals suspect arson, noting the fire started on a remote slope rather than the usual base camp area. The valley's dry winter conditions facilitate rapid fire spread. Dzukou Valley has experienced recurring fires, including major incidents in 2006, 2018, 2020-21, and December 2025, often attributed to trekker carelessness.

A six-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three minor boys aged 10, 13, and 14 in Delhi's Bhajanpura area on January 18. The victim was returning from her aunt's house when the accused, who were her neighbors and playmates, lured her to a terrace. She returned home bleeding, initially claiming she had fallen before revealing the assault to her mother. Two juveniles have been apprehended and produced before the Juvenile Justice Board, while the eldest suspect has reportedly fled to Bihar. Cases under BNS and POCSO Act have been registered. Notably, one accused's mother handed over her son to authorities after witnessing the victim's condition. (PC: PTI)

A 27-year-old Delhi Police constable posted with the SWAT unit died on Tuesday, days after she was allegedly assaulted by her husband at their home in southwest Delhi. Police said the woman suffered severe head injuries after being attacked with a metal dumbbell and hitting her head against a door frame. She was declared brain dead at a private hospital near Dwarka and later died at a hospital in Ghaziabad. The accused, Ankur Chaudhary, was arrested on the night of the incident. Police said the case, earlier registered as attempt to murder, has now been converted to murder. The victim’s family has alleged dowry harassment. (PC: X)

The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its order on a batch of pleas seeking changes to directions in the stray dogs case. The court asked all parties to file written submissions within a week. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria heard arguments from multiple states, animal welfare groups, dog bite victims and lawyers for the Centre. The court also heard submissions from the National Highways Authority of India on steps taken to keep highways free of stray dogs. It directed the Animal Welfare Board of India to process applications from NGOs seeking permission to run shelters or animal birth control facilities. (PC: HT)

Singer Arijit Singh may be preparing to enter politics after announcing his retirement from playback singing, according to an NDTV report. The report quoted sources close to the artist as saying he is planning to launch a political party, though details remain unclear. The 38-year-old recently said he would stop taking new playback assignments but continue making independent music. In a social media post, Singh wrote, “I won’t stop making music,” and said he would complete pending commitments. A two-time National Award winner, Singh is known for his low-profile lifestyle and lives in Jiaganj, in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district. Singh has not commented on the report. (PC: X)