Sources reveal that Nitish Kumar is likely to be sworn in as Chief Minister of Bihar on January 28, forming a new alliance with the BJP. Sushil Modi is anticipated to become the deputy CM. Amid the political shift, BJP's Giriraj Singh welcomes the move, stating the central leadership will decide on Nitish's return to the NDA. The development follows tensions in the JD(U)-RJD alliance, exacerbated by Karpoori Thakur's Bharat Ratna conferment and Nitish's 'parivarvaad' remark. Congress monitors the situation, expressing skepticism about Nitish returning to the BJP fold. Decision expected in the next two to three days.

West Bengal Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury alleges roadblocks for the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Trinamool-ruled West Bengal. He asserts that permissions for public meetings are being denied, citing exams as the reason. Chowdhury states, "We thought we would get relaxations in some places in West Bengal, but the administration is saying they cannot give it." TMC MP Santanu Sen counters, attributing the decision to the ongoing board examinations. The clash adds to the political tussle between Adhir and TMC, with Derek O'Brien blaming Chowdhury for the failed alliance and accusing him of speaking BJP's language.

The recent decision by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to restrict Boeing 737 Max aircraft production expansion is causing concern for Indian airlines. Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, with orders totaling hundreds of variants, now face uncertainty. Boeing's ongoing quality control scrutiny, triggered by a mid-air panel incident, prompts the FAA to halt production expansion until issues are resolved. The FAA's stance presents a challenge for Indian carriers, raising questions about the future of their orders and potential implications on Boeing's plans for a new manufacturing line.            

High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami marked Republic Day 2024 by unfurling the Tricolour at the Indian Embassy in London. The low-key ceremony was attended by community members and officials, fostering a sense of unity. Doraiswami, in his address, highlighted the significance of the day and reiterated the strong ties between India and the UK. The event aimed to celebrate the 75th Republic Day in a modest yet meaningful way, emphasizing the diplomatic relations and shared heritage between the two nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership on India's 75th Republic Day. Commending India's economic growth under Modi's leadership, Putin noted the nation's pursuit of an independent foreign policy. Putin expressed confidence, stating, "Russia can rely on India," highlighting the absence of diplomatic games. He lauded India's 'Make in India' initiative and announced significant Russian investments. Acknowledging India's rich culture, Putin mentioned the popularity of Indian movies in Russia. The comments came during an interaction with university students in Kaliningrad. This comes amid strengthening Indo-Russian ties with recent high-level exchanges.            

Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav suggests Bihar CM Nitish Kumar could have become Prime Minister within the opposition INDIA bloc, expressing disappointment over speculations of Kumar rejoining BJP. In an India Today TV interview, Yadav emphasizes the importance of Kumar's role in forming the INDIA alliance but urges him to stay. Amid political turbulence, sources hint at Kumar's possible ninth term with BJP support. Yadav criticizes Congress for not proactively engaging with the alliance. Remaining non-committal about campaigning with Rahul Gandhi, Yadav advocates regional parties' prominence and accuses BJP of politicizing the Ram Mandir issue.

India marked its 75th Republic Day with a grand parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi, highlighted by a remarkable display of 'Nari Shakti' and the aerial prowess of Rafale aircraft. Breaking tradition, 100 women artists opened the parade with Indian musical instruments. An all-women tri-service contingent, 1,500 dancers, and 265 women bikers showcased unity in diversity and bravery. The Indian Air Force displayed strength with a marching contingent, while the Republic Day celebrations also featured the only serving horsed cavalry regiment in the world. The grand finale included a breathtaking flypast by 46 Indian Air Force aircraft, concluding the historic event.

The Gyanvapi mosque case witnesses a twist as the ASI report reveals a large Hindu temple's existence before the mosque's construction. Lawyers representing the Hindu side express confidence in victory, awaiting clarification on the Shivling-fountain dispute. A structure discovered during a court-mandated survey is contested by Hindus as a 'Shivling' and by Muslims as a fountain. The ASI survey aimed to determine if the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple. The report's disclosure marks a significant development in the ongoing dispute, with both sides seeking copies of the report following a Varanasi court order.

On the eve of the 75th Republic Day, India honors 34 "unsung heroes" with the Padma Shri award. Parbati Baruah, renowned as "Hasti Kanya," becomes India's first woman elephant mahout. Other awardees include tribal environmentalist Chami Murmu, social worker Sangthankima, and plastic surgeon Prema Dhanraj. The list showcases diverse expertise, featuring organic farmers, coaches, microbiologists, artisans, and performers. Notable recipients include Gaddam Sammaiah, a Chindu Yakshaganam artist, and Babu Ram Yadav, a brass Marori craftsperson. The awards recognize significant contributions across various fields, underscoring India's celebration of exceptional service.

Indian tennis veteran Rohan Bopanna, set to become the new world No. 1 in doubles, reached his first Australian Open final alongside partner Matthew Ebden. The duo triumphed over Zhang Zhizhen and Tomas Machac in a gripping semifinal clash, winning 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(10-7). Bopanna, eyeing his maiden Grand Slam men's doubles title at 43, faces the Italian pair of Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori in the final. If victorious, Bopanna will make history as the oldest man to win a Slam doubles title. The experienced duo also aims to become the oldest world No. 1 doubles pair.