Mumbai civic life, transport, business, culture and sport.
India’s embassy and Indian community marked Republic Day in Yemen for the first time in more than 10 years, holding a flag-hoisting ceremony in Aden and sharing images from the event. The moment was framed as a sign of renewed engagement, while other missions also held Republic Day observances across multiple countries.
A standout fielding moment lit up the third India vs New Zealand T20I in Guwahati as Hardik Pandya pulled off a stunning airborne catch. The grab went viral quickly, reflecting India’s sharpness in the field as the series continued.
India is reportedly preparing a major opening of its auto market by reducing import tariffs on a limited number of European cars to 40% from as high as 110%, as India and the EU close in on a free trade pact. Further phased cuts and EV carve-outs are also being discussed.
Marking National Voters’ Day on 25 January, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to eligible youth to register and participate actively in elections. In his message, he framed voting as a core democratic responsibility and emphasised the role of first-time voters in strengthening India’s institutions.
The Indira Gandhi Planetarium in Lucknow will begin screening a new 3D stereo full-dome experience on India’s lunar missions from Republic Day. The immersive show spotlights ISRO’s Chandrayaan programme with cinematic visuals aimed at students and general audiences alike.
Senior European Union leaders arrived in New Delhi for a state visit from 25–27 January, as India signals a push to deepen cooperation with the EU across trade, technology, and strategic initiatives. The visit comes ahead of Republic Day and is framed as a key step in elevating bilateral ties.
The India Meteorological Department has warned of unsettled weather across multiple regions from 26 January, driven by a western disturbance. Alerts include heavy snowfall, hailstorms, thunderstorms and gusty winds, with disruptions likely around 27 January before conditions begin easing.
On the eve of Republic Day 2026, the government announced gallantry and service honours, with the Ashoka Chakra going to IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. The list also includes 70 other awardees across categories, underlining a broad spectrum of bravery and national service.
Delhi Police has stepped up surveillance across the capital ahead of Republic Day, deploying AI-enabled smart glasses, facial recognition systems and video analytics, alongside intensified checks at entry and exit points to track suspicious movement and prevent incidents during celebrations.
India’s Republic Day parade on 26 January will spotlight frontline and indigenous military platforms, with the Army showcasing missile systems, armour, drones and newly raised formations as the country projects “Aatmanirbhar” defence capability and operational readiness alongside ceremony.
The rupee’s drop to a record 92 per US dollar is tightening household budgets by raising the cost of imported fuel, electronics and commodities. While exporters may earn more rupees per dollar, sectors dependent on imported inputs could see the advantage diluted, analysts say.
In the 130th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked eligible young Indians to sign up as voters the moment they turn 18, describing voting as central to democracy and a key responsibility under the Constitution, a day before Republic Day celebrations.