NEWS AN LIVE

January 2025 was the third warmest January in India since 1901, with an average temperature of 18.98°C. The Indian Meteorological Department predicts that February will be warmer and drier than normal across most parts of the country, with below-normal rainfall expected except in some areas.

Union road transport minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted the impact of social media in exposing government shortcomings, emphasizing the need for quick resolution of road quality issues. He advocated for the mandatory adoption of Automated and Intelligent Machine-Aided Construction technology in highway projects to enhance efficiency and transparency.

Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted raids at 25 locations across Rajouri district, seizing incriminating materials linked to a terror network. This network, associated with Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba, aimed to activate overground workers for terror activities. These raids follow extensive searches two months prior in connection with separate terror-related cases in Rajouri and Udhampur.

The family of the late SM Khan, a distinguished Indian information service officer, met President Droupadi Murmu to announce the creation of the SM Khan foundation. The non-profit will focus on education, healthcare, and community development, honoring Khan’s lifelong dedication to public service. Khan, who passed away in November 2024, held key positions including spokesperson for CBI and press secretary to President APJ Abdul Kalam. The foundation will launch soon with initial welfare projects.

The centre informed the Supreme Court that trials in many 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases led to acquittals due to improper conduct, with appeals often dismissed for delays. A 2018 SIT, led by Justice S N Dhingra, reviewed 186 cases and recommended appeals in several. Eight appeals were dismissed by higher courts. The Supreme Court seeks a status report on the cases, including recent charges against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler for inciting violence. Hearing continues next Monday.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi accuses Haryana's BJP government of deliberately polluting the Yamuna to disrupt Delhi’s water supply before elections. Elevated ammonia levels are cited, which Delhi Jal Board claims supports this allegation. Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini refutes the accusations, attributing the crisis to Delhi's mismanagement. The Election Commission seeks a report on the matter.

An elderly couple endured a traumatic 10-hour Lufthansa flight due to wet seats and dripping water. Their journey worsened with delayed and mishandled connections, missing a scheduled ferry and experiencing fuel leakage causing another delay. They sought Rs 3.5 lakh in compensation, but a Chennai court awarded Rs 55,000. Dissatisfied, they have appealed for higher compensation.

Pune hospitals have seen a spike in Guillain-Barre Syndrome cases, reporting 101 in 18 days. Surveillance data updated till Sunday revealed Campylobacter jejuni in some samples. While authorities test water sources and advise caution, 16 patients are on ventilators, with age groups 50-80 and under nine most affected.

Airfares to Prayagraj have surged significantly ahead of the Jan 29 Mauni Amavasya snan, with return tickets from major cities costing upwards of Rs 33,000. The increase in prices is driven by high demand due to the Maha Kumbh festival, attracting numerous pilgrims from India and abroad.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrives in New Delhi for a four-day visit, participating as the chief guest in India's 76th Republic Day celebrations. Discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi will cover bilateral, regional, and global issues, focusing on food and energy security, healthcare, and renewable energy.

The government has proposed draft e-commerce guidelines, "E-commerce – Principles and Guidelines for Self-Governance," emphasizing consumer protection. Prepared by the Bureau of Indian Standards, the framework outlines pre-transaction KYC for sellers, detailed product listings, transparent contract terms, secure payments, and timely refunds. It bans preferential treatment, mandates periodic seller reviews, adherence to IS 19000:2022 for consumer reviews, and enforces strict data protection compliance.

In 2024, India's gas consumption surged by 11% annually, driven by industries, refineries, and increased residential and transport sector usage. This led to a 21% rise in LNG imports amid declining domestic production. The government seeks to boost natural gas in the energy mix to 15% by 2030, focusing on energy security and diversification of LNG supplies.

In Bengal's Hooghly, a Pocso court sentenced a man to death for raping and murdering a five-year-old girl, marking the fifth such verdict in the state since August. These convictions, based on strong evidence, aim to ensure justice and safety for minors. Legal experts emphasize that emotions should not influence justice despite quicker trials.

Indian Railways successfully completed the first trial run of a 22-bogey train from Katra to Srinagar, marking a significant achievement in connecting the Kashmir valley with Jammu and the rest of India. The train, consisting of 18 AC coaches and two engines, made the journey within four hours.

India's road transport systems must be designed to mitigate failures, as changing user behavior and addressing legacy issues are vital. Despite better roads and vehicles, road crashes are increasing, with two-wheeler occupants being most at risk. Investigating local crashes and addressing road, vehicle, and behavior issues are crucial.

Tension rises in Biroli village, Jind, over attempts to redirect wastewater through the village center instead of an external pond. Villagers argue this change threatens health and animal safety, clashing with police over the issue. The sarpanch’s representative claims the actions follow norms, but villagers suspect political motives and administrative collusion.

Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized police approval from senior officers before applying terrorism or organized crime charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in Madhya Pradesh. He stressed on transparency and strict monitoring for proper implementation of new criminal laws. Shah also called for enhancing forensic capabilities and ensuring legal aid to underprivileged undertrials.

The Commissioner for Railway Safety has approved the Katra-Reasi section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail project, paving the way for regular train services between Jammu and Srinagar. The maximum speed will be 85 kmph on regular lines and 15 kmph on loop lines, with operations limited to daytime for security reasons. Compliance with certain conditions is required before starting train operations.

Punjab and Haryana High Court has quashed an FIR against a proclaimed offender under the Negotiable Instruments Act after both parties reached a compromise. Justice Sumeet Goel emphasized that pursuing such cases, when settled, burdens courts unnecessarily and goes against the legislative intent of Sec 138 of the Act. The compromise was deemed a significant factor in deciding to quash the FIR.

The executive council of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library has been reconstituted, with Nripendra Mishra continuing as chairperson. New members include former minister Smriti Irani, ex-Army General Syed Ata Hasnain, and filmmaker Shekhar Kapur. The council expanded to 34 members, including multiple Union ministers and other prominent figures.

Tension escalated at INS Kadamba Naval Base after a clash between naval personnel and residents, sparked by a minor accident involving a local fisherman and a navy employee. The incident led to a brawl and subsequent protests, resulting in the police involvement and the arrest of four naval personnel.

In J&K’s Rajouri district, three siblings from Badhaal village succumbed within 24 hours to a mystery illness after consuming sweet rice at a family event. This adds to a total of 12 deaths in the village since December. Samples are being analyzed to determine the cause, while local authorities are providing medical assistance and urging the public to stay calm.

India will not reduce troops along the LAC with China, citing a persisting standoff and the need to rebuild trust for de-escalation. Army chief Gen Dwivedi also criticized Pakistan for cross-border terrorism in J&K. The situation along the LAC is stable but sensitive, with strategic patience required to resolve the conflict.

The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, from January 13 to February 26, is set to be the world's largest gathering, with cultural and tourism ministries collaborating to enhance visitor experience. With expected attendance of 40 crore, preparations include enhanced connectivity, cultural showcases, and multilingual toll-free assistance for tourists.

Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a Punjab farmer leader, has written to religious leaders requesting their intervention to urge the Central government to address farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price. Dallewal, who has been fasting for 48 days, remains in declining health.

A bus accident in Uttarakhand's Pauri Garhwal District resulted in six deaths and 16 injuries. The vehicle fell into a 100-metre-deep ditch. Rescue operations are ongoing, and injured passengers are being treated at nearby hospitals. Uttarakhand CM expressed condolences and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Kerala Police have arrested 15 individuals, including a minor, in connection with the alleged rape of a Dalit teenager. The victim, now 18, disclosed being repeatedly assaulted since age 13. Over 60 individuals are implicated, and further arrests are expected. Authorities are investigating and providing the victim with psychological support. Activists and political figures demand strict action.

Two major political parties, BJP and Congress, continue to occupy government bungalows in Lutyens’ Delhi for their offices, despite having built their own headquarters. Notices were issued by the housing ministry, but vacating has not occurred. This situation involves around six bungalows currently occupied by political parties.

The Bombay high court granted bail to sculptor Jaydeep Apte, creator of the collapsed 28-feet statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Malvan, on a Rs 25,000 bond. Apte claimed the statue fell due to gusty winds, and advocate Ganesh Sovani argued no one was injured and further custody was unwarranted.

The government has invited officials from countries that were part of undivided India, such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka, to celebrate 150 years of the India Meteorological Department. Events include marathons and exhibitions, with Pakistan confirming participation and special commemorative coins issued.

Home Minister Amit Shah reviews ongoing projects of the Bureau of Police Research and Development, focusing on new criminal laws, grassroots policing challenges, and police modernisation. He emphasizes research, multi-stakeholder contributions, and 'make in India' initiatives to improve Indian police forces and criminal justice system.

PM Modi is set to open the 6.5-km Z-Morh tunnel on January 13, enhancing all-weather connectivity to Sonmarg in Kashmir. The railways successfully tested a train on the Katra-Banihal section, linking Katra and Srinagar. A specially designed Vande Bharat train will soon operate with anti-freezing features, further boosting transport infrastructure in the region.

The home ministry has instructed all states and Union territories to continuously release eligible prisoners under Section 479(3) of the BNSS, 2023, focusing on those who have completed half of their maximum jail term, except for certain exceptions, to reduce long detentions and overcrowding in prisons.

Home minister Amit Shah will launch the Bharatpol portal to streamline international assistance in criminal matters. Developed by CBI, Bharatpol will facilitate real-time information sharing, speeding up responses for Red and color-coded notices against fugitives. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency in combating transnational crimes and aid law enforcement agencies across India.