The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk in Delhi promises an enchanting spectacle as military and paramilitary bands gear up to serenade the audience with 31 captivating Indian tunes. Led by Principal Conductor Lt Col Vimal Joshi, the event will feature enthralling melodies like 'Veer Bharat', 'Sangam Dur', and 'Deshon ka Sartaj Bharat'. Distinguished guests including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will grace the occasion. Originating from a centuries-old military tradition, the ceremony evokes nostalgia and unity. As the sun sets, the Raisina Hills will resonate with the soul-stirring music, promising an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron have urged for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza to facilitate aid delivery, expressing grave apprehensions over the conflict's expansion in the region. The joint statement also emphasized civil nuclear cooperation, counter-terrorism measures, and defence collaborations between India and France. Discussions encompassed various geopolitical issues, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and the war in Ukraine. Both leaders highlighted the significance of upholding international law and fostering peace. The statement underscores the deepening partnership between the two nations across multiple domains, aiming at regional stability and global peace.

French President Emmanuel Macron, on a state visit to India, expressed admiration for India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system during a tea session with Prime Minister Narendra Modi near Jaipur's Hawa Mahal. Macron highlighted the memorable experience of enjoying chai paid through UPI as a symbol of the warmth and innovation in Indo-French relations. Macron stated, "I will not forget the chai we shared together close to the palace. It was a chai paid with UPI." PM Modi explained the UPI system, leaving Macron pleasantly surprised, with PM Modi stating, "This is a perfect synthesis of why it is so special." Plans to implement UPI in France were also discussed, enhancing convenience for Indian tourists.

In a tragic turn of events at Delhi's renowned Kalkaji Mandir, one woman lost her life and 17 others sustained injuries during a Mata Jagran overnight event. The collapse occurred when enthusiastic devotees overwhelmed an elevated platform, erected without permission, during hymns. Despite sufficient security measures, the stage crumbled under the weight, prompting a swift response from authorities. Singer B Praak, present at the event, expressed grief over the incident, emphasizing the importance of proper management. The injured were swiftly transported to various hospitals, with most in stable condition. Organizers now face legal repercussions with a case filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge voices "grave concern" over Manipur's deteriorating situation, urging Union Home Minister Amit Shah for urgent action. Kharge highlights recent violence, including the assault on Congress leader Keisham Meghachandra, blaming a non-state actor. Despite the heavy security presence, Kharge criticizes Chief Minister N Biren Singh's inaction and accuses Prime Minister Modi of maintaining a troubling silence. Kharge emphasizes the responsibility of constitutional functionaries to protect democratic processes. The violence, stemming from ethnic tensions, has claimed over 180 lives since May 3, 2023.

The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee, overseeing Varanasi's Gyanvapi mosque, responds to the ASI survey, stating it's not a conclusive judgment. ASI's report suggests the mosque stands on a preexisting Hindu temple. Committee Secretary Mohd Yasin asserts it's not the final word and awaits the Supreme Court's decision. Hindu side's advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain claims remnants of a temple were found during the survey. BJP's Giriraj Singh urges Muslims to hand over the mosque to Hindus, while AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi criticizes ASI as the "handmaiden of Hindutva." Varanasi court had ordered the survey to ascertain the temple's existence.      

Calcutta High Court sees a dispute as Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay accuses Justice Soumen Sen of 'misconduct' over contradictory CBI investigation orders on medical college admission irregularities. Justice Gangopadhyay directs CBI probe continuation and accuses Justice Sen of favoring a political party. The disagreement stems from a petition alleging fake caste certificates, with Justice Gangopadhyay initially ordering the CBI inquiry. The division bench, led by Justice Sen, stays the order, highlighting the petitioner's lack of CBI prayer. The clash intensifies over differing views on the legitimacy of the investigation and the involvement of political interests.

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.