The 76th Republic Day celebrations commenced at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, with President Droupadi Murmu unfurling the national flag, followed by a 21-gun salute. Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial prior to the parade. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto graced the event as the chief guest. The parade featured 18 marching contingents, 15 bands, and 31 tableaux, highlighting India’s cultural diversity and military strength. This year's theme, “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Progress), celebrated India's rich heritage and development. Over 10,000 special guests attended, with 7,70,000 passes issued nationwide.

On the eve of India’s 76th Republic Day, the government announced the prestigious Padma Awards, honoring 139 individuals for their contributions across various fields. The recipients include late Bihar Deputy CM Sushil Modi, ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, and hockey player PR Sreejesh. Seven individuals, including Sharda Sinha and Osamu Suzuki, will receive the Padma Vibhushan, 19 will be honored with the Padma Bhushan, and 113 with the Padma Shri. Notable honorees include Tamil actor Ajith Kumar, cricketer R Ashwin, and singer Arijit Singh. PM Modi congratulated the awardees, celebrating their “dedication and perseverance” in transforming lives.

Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza remain displaced as Israel accused Hamas of breaching a truce agreement by delaying the release of Israeli civilian Arbel Yehud. Displaced families gathered along the Al Rashid road, seeking to return north, but Israeli forces blocked access, citing security concerns. Gunfire reportedly erupted, leaving one person dead and others injured, though the IDF denied intentional harm. Hamas had earlier freed four Israeli female soldiers, with Israel releasing 200 Palestinian prisoners. Mediators from Qatar and Egypt continue negotiations, but Israeli tanks block routes. Displaced Palestinians hold onto hope of returning to devastated homes and reuniting with families.

The United States congratulated India on its 76th Republic Day, emphasizing the nation’s role as the world’s largest democracy. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio lauded the deepening India-US partnership, calling it a "defining relationship of the 21st century." He highlighted the nations' collaboration through the Quad alliance to ensure a "free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific." Rubio also reaffirmed joint efforts in space research and economic ties during recent talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The message underlines the enduring friendship between the two nations and their shared vision for global stability and prosperity.

Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 72 off 55 balls guided India to a thrilling two-wicket win against England in the second T20I in Chennai. Chasing 166, Tilak held his ground despite losing partners, showcasing grit and adaptability, as advised by head coach Gautam Gambhir. The left-hander targeted Jofra Archer and built a crucial ninth-wicket partnership with Ravi Bishnoi, securing the win with four balls to spare. Tilak, 22, has remained unbeaten in his last four T20Is, amassing 318 runs between dismissals. "Adapt to situations and stay flexible," Tilak quoted Gambhir, crediting the guidance for his match-winning knock.

India marked its 76th Republic Day with a grand parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu led the celebrations, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the chief guest. The parade showcased 31 tableaux under the theme "Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas," cutting-edge defence systems, and cultural performances by 5,000 artistes. Military highlights included the debut of the DRDO’s 'Pralay' missile and a tri-services tableau. The flypast featured 40 aircraft, including Su-30 jets. Over 70,000 personnel ensured tight security across Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial.

Four Israeli female hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have been released and are reported to be in stable condition, according to hospital sources. The women, taken on 7 October, mark the second group freed under a ceasefire agreement. In exchange, Israel released 200 Palestinian prisoners, 70 of whom face deportation. Tensions rise as the Israeli government accuses Hamas of violating the deal by not releasing civilian hostage Arbel Yehud, who Hamas claims will be freed next week. In response, Israel delayed displaced Palestinians' return to northern Gaza. The fragile ceasefire remains under scrutiny amidst these developments.

Storm Eowyn continues to wreak havoc across the UK and Ireland, leading to fresh weather warnings issued by the Met Office and Met Éireann. Record-breaking winds have left thousands without power in Ireland. Warnings for wind, snow, and ice are in effect for parts of the UK, including Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while heavy rain warnings cover regions like the East Midlands, London, and Wales, raising flood concerns. Ireland faces warnings for "strong and gusty winds" and "heavy downpours" in multiple counties. Authorities caution against travel disruptions, with train services and events impacted amid ongoing adverse conditions.

In her address on the eve of India's 76th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the transformative potential of the "One Nation, One Election" proposal. She stated that synchronized elections could prevent policy paralysis, reduce financial burdens, and promote good governance. Highlighting India's 75-year journey under the Constitution, she praised economic growth, social inclusion, and reforms like replacing British-era laws with modern jurisprudence. Ms. Murmu celebrated marginalized communities' progress, ISRO's achievements, and educational advancements. Honoring freedom fighters, she underscored Mahatma Gandhi's principles of truth, nonviolence, and morality in governance. Republic Day, she added, reflects India's collective pride and progress.                  

The Padma Awards 2025 were announced on January 25, honouring Indian cinema personalities. Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur and actors Ajith Kumar, Nandamuri Balakrishna, and Anant Nag received Padma Bhushan awards. Renowned singer Arijit Singh, actor Mamata Shankar, and Marathi veteran Ashok Saraf were conferred Padma Shri. Other recipients include Jaspinder Narula, composer Ricky Kej, and the late Pankaj Udhas, who received a posthumous Padma Bhushan. The awards highlight contributions across music and film, celebrating talent from various regions and languages. In total, 139 Padma Awards were given this year, recognizing excellence across multiple fields.