In a significant stride towards bolstering defense ties, Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh and UK counterpart Mr. Grant Shapps co-chaired the UK-India Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable in London. The event saw top leaders from major UK defense companies, including BAE Systems and Thales UK. Shri Rajnath Singh welcomed UK investment, emphasizing India's skilled workforce and business-friendly ecosystem. Both leaders envisioned a strategic partnership, fostering cooperation and innovation. Focus areas like aero-engines and maritime systems were highlighted. Earlier agreements, bilateral meetings, and tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. BR Ambedkar marked the Raksha Mantri's UK visit. Scheduled meetings with UK PM Rishi Sunak and Foreign Secretary David Cameron await.

The UK announces a significant step in enhancing UK-India security ties by deploying its high-readiness Spearhead Carrier Strike Group to the Indian Ocean Region in 2025, following the Littoral Response Group's visit in 2024. This decision follows the first visit of an Indian Defence Minister to the UK in over two decades. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh solidify unprecedented levels of defence cooperation, discussing joint exercises, knowledge sharing, and instructor exchanges. The move signifies a commitment to upholding global security and protecting critical trade routes in the Indo-Pacific. Collaborations extend to electric propulsion systems and complex weapon development.

US and UK warships successfully thwarted a substantial Houthi assault in the Red Sea, intercepting 20 rockets, drones, and cruise missiles. The Iranian-backed group's attack aimed at shipping prompted a stern warning from UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, who termed the actions "unacceptable," promising severe consequences. The Houthis, seeking to pressure Israel for increased Gaza aid, faced resistance as American and British forces downed 18 drones and three missiles. The HMS Diamond, hailed by the Royal Navy, played a pivotal role in repelling the largest Houthi attack in the Red Sea. Plans to designate Houthis as terrorists have waned.

Union Minister and BJP leader Hardeep Singh Puri cautioned that the Congress would "regret" its decision not to attend the Ram Temple consecration on January 22, calling the party stuck in "rhetoric." Puri dismissed the Congress stance, stating, "Why take them seriously? They will regret it if they don't go." BJP leader Nalin Kohli criticized Congress, citing their historical denial of Lord Ram's existence and delay in the Supreme Court hearing. BJP national secretary Manjinder Singh Sirsa condemned Congress for labeling the event as a "BJP event." Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh accused BJP of using the temple for political gains.

India's T20I squad for the Afghanistan series excludes Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, with reports citing disciplinary concerns. Ishan's participation in social events after withdrawing from Tests irked selectors, potentially impacting his T20 World Cup chances. Meanwhile, Shreyas' shot selection and reluctance to play Ranji Trophy led to his exclusion, though he later joined the Mumbai squad. The selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, emphasize discipline and commitment, praising Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill's dedication. The move underscores the strict stance on players not prioritizing Test and first-class cricket.

Amid the India-Maldives diplomatic row, Maldivian Opposition Leader Fayyaz Ismail calls for a "tougher stand" by the government, denouncing racist comments against PM Modi. Ismail emphasizes the need to repair the situation, stating, "This has gone beyond governments," as the spat reaches the public. Concerns rise over potential impacts on bilateral ties and tourism revenue. Ismail urges restraint from both nations. In response to shifting alliances, he notes the Maldives' stronger engagement with China. Despite concerns, he highlights the enduring importance of India-Maldives collaboration for regional stability.            

Amid conflicting opinions within the INDIA bloc, the Congress announced that Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury will skip the Ram Mandir event on January 22. The party labeled the ceremony as an "RSS/BJP event" and emphasized that the incomplete temple's inauguration was expedited for electoral purposes. In a statement, the Congress cited their commitment to the 2019 Supreme Court judgment but expressed reservations about the political overtone given by the BJP/RSS. This decision follows similar stances from other parties, with Mamata Banerjee terming the event a "gimmick show."

ST-2, known as the 'Rajmata of Sariska' and India's oldest tigress, passed away at 19 in the Sariska Tiger Reserve. Undergoing treatment for the past two years due to a tail injury, ST-2, a mother of four cubs, was closely monitored by a medical team. Her demise was confirmed at 5 pm, prompting officials to conduct a post-mortem on Wednesday. The news saddened wildlife enthusiasts, marking the loss of a prominent figure at Sariska. Concerns arise about the health of tigers in captivity. Wildlife advocate Dinesh Durrani urges a probe into the well-being of tigers in enclosures.

Controversial internet personality Andrew Tate engaged in a heated Twitter exchange with Indian-American doctor Kirti Patel after she criticized his shirtless photo. Patel commented that Tate's muscular body type suggests "aggression and narcissism." In response, Tate mocked Patel's appearance, sharing her photo and remarking on her nose size. He continued attacking her in subsequent tweets, coining the term "KIRTIUS" to belittle her. Tate, known for misogynistic views, has gained millions of online followers promoting a hyper-masculine lifestyle. His comments towards Patel exemplify his tendency to degrade women who challenge him.

London claims the title of the world's slowest city for drivers, taking an average of 37 minutes to cover a 10km journey, reports location technology company TomTom. The 20mph speed limits contribute to this ranking, marking the second consecutive year that London leads this list among 387 cities across 55 countries. Manchester follows as the second slowest city in the UK. London Mayor Sadiq Khan's spokesperson challenges the study, stating it analyzes a small part of the city, focusing on congestion caused by roadworks. The city published a 'Plan for Drivers' emphasizing the appropriate use of 20mph speed limits.