Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a symbolic gesture, visited the Arichal Munai near Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu, where the legendary Ram Setu was believed to have been built. Performing 'anulom vilom,' he immersed in spiritual practices at the site linked to Lord Ram's journey to Lanka. Modi also conducted puja at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple, associated with significant events from the Ramayana. These visits hold profound significance as they precede the pran-pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya. Amid heightened security preparations, Modi's spiritual journey culminates in the much-anticipated event in Ayodhya, marking a pivotal moment in India's cultural and religious landscape.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi has rescinded its earlier announcement of a half-day closure on January 22 due to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha ceremony. Facing severe backlash, the central government-run hospital will now remain fully operational. The reversal follows criticism for aligning its schedule with the temple event. AIIMS clarified that outpatient services and critical clinical care will continue without interruption. The Ayodhya Ram temple's consecration ceremony is set for Monday, with the "Pran Pratishtha" ritual scheduled from 12:20 pm to 1 pm.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat, ahead of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, delves into the historical context, urging an end to decades-long Ayodhya dispute conflict. Reflecting on India's 1,500-year struggle against invaders, Bhagwat emphasizes the systematic destruction of religious places and the foreign forces' aim to weaken society. He notes the invaders' strategy encompassed the demolition of the Shri Ram temple. Bhagwat calls for unity, envisioning a society embodying Lord Ram's virtues, stressing the need to end bitterness and the Ayodhya dispute.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in religious rituals at the Lord Ramanathaswamy temple in Rameswaram after a sacred dip at the 'Agnitheerth' beach. Wearing a rudraksha-mala, PM Modi prayed at the ancient Shiva temple, receiving traditional honors from priests. The temple, with a connection to the Ramayana, holds significance as Lord Ram and Sita Devi prayed there. Earlier, PM Modi worshipped at the Sri Ranganathaswamy temple in Tiruchirappalli before a warm reception from BJP workers and locals upon his arrival in Rameswaram via Air Force chopper.

Four law students from MNLU, Mumbai, GLC, and NIRMA law school have moved the Bombay High Court opposing the Maharashtra government's declaration of a public holiday on January 22 for the Ram Temple consecration. Arguing that such a move violates constitutional principles of secularism, the students contend that the state should not endorse or celebrate religious events. They emphasize that public holidays should commemorate patriotic figures or historic events, not cater to specific religious communities. The special bench of Justices GS Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale is set to hear the case tomorrow at 10:30 am.

Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena approves a half-day closure for Delhi government offices on January 22 in honor of the Ayodhya Ram Temple consecration. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal orders offices to shut until 2:30 pm. Over 11,000 VIP attendees, including PM Narendra Modi, will witness the 'pran-pratishtha' of Ram Lalla. Several states, including Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Haryana, declare public holidays or half-days. The central government already announced a half-day holiday for its employees. Chandigarh and other states ensure closures for government institutions, allowing participation in the historic event.

The Election Commission (EC) informs the Centre that ₹10,000 crore every 15 years is required for new EVMs if 'One Nation, One Election' is implemented. Stating EVMs' 15-year shelf life, the EC estimates the need for 46,75,100 ballot units, 33,63,300 control units, and 36,62,600 VVPAT machines for simultaneous polls. Each EVM set costs ₹7,900 (ballot unit), ₹9,800 (control unit), and ₹16,000 (VVPAT). The EC underscores the necessity of constitutional amendments, citing changes to Articles 83, 85, 172, 174, and 356. Acknowledging logistical challenges, EC indicates 2029 as the earliest feasible year for simultaneous elections.

AAP MP and former cricketer Harbhajan Singh asserts his commitment to attend the Ram Mandir consecration on January 22, expressing indifference to opposition parties boycotting the event. Singh declares, "Don't care what others do, I'll go. This is my stand as an individual who believes in God." His resolute stance, "Won't bow to political pressure," follows AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal's decision to skip the ceremony. Singh emphasizes the significance of seeking blessings at this opportune time. AAP's Delhi Health Minister, Saurabh Bhardwaj, supports the four Shankaracharyas' decision to abstain, citing scriptural concerns. Despite varied stances within AAP, Singh remains steadfast in his personal choice to participate in the auspicious event.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that India will fence its 1643-km border with Myanmar, mirroring the Indo-Bangladesh model, and abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR). Addressing the passing-out parade of Assam Police Commando battalions, Shah stated that the government aims to enhance border security. The FMR, allowing border residents to travel 16 km without a visa, will be discontinued. Shah highlighted changes in India's internal security, reporting a 73% decrease in violence in the Northeast, Jammu & Kashmir, and Naxal-affected areas over the past decade. The decision follows Manipur's appeal last year to halt FMR for curbing illegal immigration.    

Amidst the ongoing conflict between rebel forces and Myanmar's junta, approximately 600 Myanmar Army soldiers have fled to Mizoram, India. Seeking refuge in Mizoram's Lawngtlai district after Arakan Army militants captured their camps, the soldiers are currently housed in an Assam Rifles camp. Mizoram's Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the urgency during talks with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, emphasizing the need for a prompt repatriation to address regional stability concerns. Lalduhoma stated, "People are fleeing for shelter, and we are helping them on humanitarian grounds." The situation underscores the challenges posed by the escalating tensions on the region.