FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 35 No.5 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday January 30, 2026 India Marks 77th Republic Day Parade: Mechanised columns, Special Forces highlight India’s defence capability New Delhi [India], January 26 (ANI): India’s mechanised and Special Forces capabilities were on full display on Monday as the nation celebrated its 77th Republic Day, showcasing advanced defence technology, battlefield readiness, and a strong commitment to self-reliance along Kartavya Path. Leading the mechanised column was the formidable T-90 Bhishma, commanded by Captain Vipanjot Singh Virk of the 77 Armoured Regiment. Built on the Hunter-Killer concept, the tank is equipped with a 125-mm smoothbore gun, machine guns, and laser-guided missiles capable of engaging targets up to five kilometres away. Recently upgraded with enhanced firepower, mobility, and drone-enabled surveillance, the T-90 Bhishma has demon- strated its effectiveness in high-altitude conditions and during Operation SINDOOR. Raised on June 1, 1972, the regiment operates under the motto ‘Vijay Ya Veergati’. The indigenously developed Arjun Mk I Main Battle Tank, led by Major Hitesh Mehta of the 75 Armoured Regiment, also featured prominent- ly. Armed with a 120mm rifled gun, advanced fire-control and sighting systems, and protected by Kanchan armour along with Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) protection, the Arjun reflects India’s focus on indigenous capability and modern battlefield readiness. The BMP-II also carried advanced systems including Asteria AT-15, an indigenously developed Vertical Take-off and Landing ISR drone, Canister-Launched Anti-Armour Loitering Munition (CALM), and Tactical Awareness and Surveillance System (TASS) for real-time battlefield awareness. The regiment’s motto is ‘Pehla Hamesha Pehla’. India’s elite Spe- cial Forces marched down Kartavya Path, demonstrating their ability to operate deep inside enemy territory. Highly trained to fight in isolation, these forces can infiltrate by parachute drop, heliborne insertion, vehicles, or on foot, gather critical intelligence, and execute precision strikes using anti-tank, anti-personnel, and anti-air missiles. Supporting the mechanised and strike elements were advanced vehicles and unmanned systems. The AJAYKETU All Terrain Vehicle, led by Lt Col Ram Vinodh S of PARA (SF), showcased indigenous loitering munitions such as NAGASTRA and BHOJANK (JOHNETTE), enhancing beyond-line-of-sight precision strike capabilities. The RANDHWAJ Tactical Transport System, designed for rugged terrain, deployed snipers and Special Operations troops equipped with TRINETRA surveillance drones and TEER FPV strike drones. Meanwhile, Dhwansak Light Strike Vehicles demonstrated a lethal mix of firepower and surveillance, featuring Heavy Machine Guns, IGLA air defence INDIA REPUBLIC DAY SEE PAGE 4 The New World Order: Davos, The Border, and the Return of American Strength By Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse If there was any doubt that the era of globalist weakness is over, President Trump’s recent appearance in Davos shattered it. The event highlighted themes like The New World Order – Davos – The Border – and the Return of American Strength. Standing before the heads of state of Europe, he didn’t offer platitudes; he offered a reality check. In fact, The New World Order – Davos – The Border – and the Return of American Strength were central to out starkly. Moreover, they are dependent on China for their green energy dreams and on America for their survival against Russia. The message was received. When the President of the United States speaks now, the world listens. The EU leadership, once critical, is now falling in line under the American umbrella. This is the return of the Superpower. The New World Order – Davos – The Border – and the Return of American Strength set the tone for this new era. every discussion at the summit. For years, the European Union has been “sleeping,” content to rely on American defense while outsourcing their critical industries to China. President Trump walked into that room and told them to close their eyes and imagine a world without America. The silence was deafening. He exposed the hard truth: Europe doesn’t even produce its own batteries. In the context of the New World Order, Davos, the border, and this renewed American strength, their dependence on China and the US stands Dominance Abroad: From Venezuela to Greenland Remember: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” Jesus Christ The critics told us that aggressive moves would lead to war. They were wrong. America went into Venezuela, extracted Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse with President Trump NEW WORLD ORDER see page 6
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2026 Maharashtra loses ‘Ajit Dada’: Longest-serving Deputy CM of state dies in tragic plane crash Baramati (Maharashtra) [India], January 28 (ANI): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Ajit ‘Dada’ Pawar died on Wednesday in a tragic plane crash at Baramati airport, bringing an end to a long political career marked by significant achievements and challenges. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), five people, including crew members, were on board the chartered aircraft flying from Mumbai to Baramati when it crash-landed at around 8:45 a.m. near the runway threshold at Baramati airport. All five occupants lost their lives in the incident. Pawar was travelling with two personnel — one personal security officer (PSO) and one attendant — along with two crew members. He was en route to Baramati to attend a public rally in connec- tion with the Zilla Parishad elections. Ajit Pawar was born on July 22, 1959, at Deolali Pravara in Rahuri taluka of Ahmednagar district. Popularly known as “Ajit Dada,” he was admired for his tireless efforts for the people of Maharashtra and his strong connection with grassroots politics. Apart from his contributions to government administration, Pawar played a key role in the cooperative sector, heading the management of several milk unions and federations, as well as sug- ar factories. His leadership journey began with his involvement in cooperative institutions such as milk unions, cooperative societies, sugar factories and banks. A major turning point came in 1991 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha. He later vacated the Baramati seat for his uncle, veteran leader Sharad Pawar. Over the years, Ajit Pawar held several important positions, including Member of the Legislative Assembly, Minister of State in key departments, and Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. He was the longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister of the state in non-consecutive terms, having held the position six times under various governments led by Prithviraj Chavan, Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde. Ajit Pawar was elected to the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1991 from the Baramati Parliamentary constituency. He was later elected seven times to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from the Baramati Assembly constituency — first in a 1991 by-election and subsequently in 1995, 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014. In November 2019, he engineered a split in the NCP and joined a government led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, becoming Deputy Chief Minister. In February 2024, the Election Commission awarded the party name and symbol to the faction headed by Ajit Pawar. Despite political differences, Ajit Pawar remained close to his uncle Sharad Pawar, under whose guidance he began his political career. In the recent Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal elections, the rival factions of the NCP came together in an alliance and projected a united development agenda for Pune. Known for his straightforward approach and frankness, Ajit Pawar leaves behind his wife, Sunetra Pawar, and two sons, Jay and Parth Pawar. (ANI)
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2026 India marks 77th Republic Day with grand celebrations at Kartavya Path INDIA’S REPUBLIC DAY FROM PAGE 1 launchers, SPIKE anti-tank launchers, Vehicle Mounted Infantry Mortar System (VMIMS), and advanced drones including Q6, Tunga, and micro canister-launched UAVs. Robotic and unmanned platforms, including Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and robotic dogs armed with Tavor assault rifles and Negev LMGs, showcased capabilities in remote engagement, casualty evacuation, logistics support, and advanced surveillance. Platforms such as Nigraha, Bhairav, Bhuviraksha, and Krishna highlighted India’s progress in autonomous and remote-controlled battlefield technologies. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial at India Gate. He was accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P.S. Singh, and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi. As the parade commenced, spectators witnessed the aerial ‘Dhwaj Formation’, featuring four Mi-17 1V helicopters of the 129 Helicopter Unit flying in a striking inverted ‘Y’ formation. The helicopters proudly carried the National Ensign along with the Service Ensigns of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force. President Droupadi Murmu presided over the grand celebrations at Kartavya Path. The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, attended as the Chief Guests on the occasio. European Union contingent displays institutional unity, support for international maritime security As India celebrates its 77th Republic Day, featuring an extraordinary blend of the 150-year legacy of Vande Mataram, the European Union contingent participated in the celebrationssymbolizing institutional unity and European Union’s operational presence in support of international maritime security.The European Union (EU) Flags on Three Gypsies The European Union (EU) military representation was led by Colonel Frederik Simon Spruijt, acting on behalf of the Director General of the European Union Military Staff (EUMS), on board a ceremonial Gypsy. The right-side vehicle, aligned alongside the second ceremonial jeep, carried the flag of the European Union, symbolising the institutional unity of the 27 EU Member States, alongside the flag of the European Union Military Staff EUMS), the permanent military body within the EU’s institutional framework for security and defence. The left-side vehicle, aligned alongside the first, carried the flags of EU Naval Force ATALANTA and EU Naval Force ASPIDES, the two European Union naval operations conducted under the EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) in the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea regions. These flags represent the European Union’s operational presence in support of international maritime security.For the 77th Republic Day, Kartavya Path, stretching from Rashtrapati Bhawan to the National War Memorial, has been elaborately decorated to showcase India’s remarkable journey. The celebrations will feature an extraordinary blend of the 150-year legacy of the national song Vande Mataram, the country’s unprecedented developmental progress, robust military strength, vibrant cultural diversity, and active participation from citizens across all walks of life. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council, Antonio Luis Santos da Costa are the Chief Guests as India marks its celebrations. The European leaders are on a State visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from January 25-27. In a significant move to bolster ties between two of the world’s largest democracies, the European Union (EU) and India are set to unveil a “Security and Defence Strategic Partnership” and are closing in on a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) during the upcoming summit, EU official confirmed. continuing his tradition, walked along Kartavya Path and waved to spectators gathered for the event. At the end of the ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu, along with the Republic Day parade chief guests— European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa— were escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, also known as Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak, as they departed for Rashtrapati Bhavan. (ANI) EU Chief Thanks President Murmu for Hosting Her at Republic Day Celebrations New Delhi [India], January 26 (ANI): European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday thanked President Droupadi Murmu for hosting her as the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. Von der Leyen highlighted the ideological similarities between democracy in Europe and India and the shared commitment to shaping a new global order. In a post on X, she said, “Thank you for hosting us on Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu. Thank you very much for your warm welcome. Europe and India are the world’s largest democracies, committed to working together to shape a new global order. This is why we are here to take our partnership to new heights.” She added, “The display of the flags of the EU, the EU Military Staff, and our maritime missions Atalanta and Aspides at India’s Republic Day is a powerful symbol of our deepening security cooperation. It will culminate tomorrow in the signature of our Security and Defence Partnership.” Von der Leyen called it the honor of a lifetime to be the chief guest at the celebrations. In another post on X, she said, “It is the honour of a lifetime to be chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous, and secure.” India’s 77th Republic Day parade concluded on Monday with a spectacular showcase of the country’s military capabilities and cultural diversity at Kartavya Path. Following the parade and after seeing off President Murmu and the visiting foreign dignitaries, Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2026 The New World Order: Davos, The Border, and the Return of American Strength NEW WORLD ORDER FROM PAGE 1 a dictator who was selling drugs and working with our adversaries, and brought him to justice. What did Russia and China do? Nothing. Undeniably, the events in Venezuela have become another example of the interplay between the Border, Davos gatherings, new world order, and America’s demonstrated return to global strength. They were silent. Similarly, with the new framework regarding Greenland, we see the art of the deal in action. The President didn’t need a military invasion; he started negotiations from a position of ultimate strength and secured a deal that will benefit the United States forever. The stock markets reacted instantly—not with fear, but with a boom. This is what stability looks like: a world where American interests are unquestioned. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say The New World Order – Davos – The Border – and the Return of American Strength have defined America’s position abroad. Year One: A Decade of Results in 12 Months Back home, the liberal media tries to paint the first year of this term as “unstable.” I completely disagree. In one year, this administration has delivered what others couldn’t achieve in ten. Consider the momentum stemming from Davos, the border, and the return to American strength. All these factors play into a redefined New World Order. The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- January 30, 2025 Cowards By Rajan George Cowards put forth a display of courage, Speak in lofty terms always Will never forgo their arrogance, Falsely assuming others believe All their pontifications—though All who hear them loudly speak How strong they are, and do not fear Even the mightiest force on earth. They revile all men and expose Their rigidity and raucousness, Even portending an imminent threat To lives they themselves can’t defend. Yet without shame they bloviate, Display arrogance with no restraint, An attempt aimed at deceiving Their own folks who blindly confide in them. They use force against their people, Whom they are bound to care for And provide for their well-being, Ordering them killed for demanding their rights. They cannot help but bloviate Relentlessly, sans common sense, Exposing their folly to the world While cowering toward escape themselves. They hunker down in bunkers deep, Hoping no foe can penetrate, Seeking shelter while demanding Their citizens be tortured and killed. What describes a coward best? He fears any threat from inside or out Yet ranting loud and hunkering down In bunkers deep beneath the earth Falsely hoping he’s safe from threats. Look at the promises kept. The border crisis? Solved. Illegal crossings have dropped to near zero because the message is clear: if you come here illegally, you will not stay. Crime is down across the board—even in historically troubled cities like Baltimore—because the National Guard and federal agencies are finally being allowed to do their jobs. These advances are a reflection of the New World Order, the border issue’s centrality, Davos’s diplomatic efforts, and new American strength on display. Economically, the “America First” approach is putting money directly back into the pockets of the people. The trade deficit has been slashed by 35%. Inflation is down. Gas is cheap. And thanks to the tariff surpluses, Americans are seeing $2,000 checks. With new tax reforms—like tax-free tips for service workers and deductibility of car loan interest—the working class is finally catching a break. A Note to My Community: “America First” is Not “Anti-India” I often hear concerns from the Indian community, fueled by misleading media headlines, that the President is “anti-India” or “anti-immigrant.” Let me be clear: He is not against India; he is simply for America. Moreover, the priorities expressed by the administration—including those involving Davos, the border, America’s renewed strength, and this evolving New World Order—are INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse with Ambassador Gor ultimately about protecting national interest. It is not about being anti-anyone. When visa pauses are announced for countries that cannot properly vet their citizens—like Somalia—that is a national security measure, not an act of hate. As legal immigrants, we should support this. We came here through the front door. We followed the law. We should want a system that protects the integrity of that process. In summary, The New World Order – Davos – The Border – and the Return of American Strength underline this administration’s priorities for security and prosperity. Law and Order: Standing with ICE This brings me to the recent protests against ICE. It is shameful to see people obstructing federal law enforcement officers. ICE agents are not the enemy; they are enforcing the laws passed by our Congress. They are removing child molesters, rapists, and criminals who have no right to be in our society. These enforcement actions are also a sign of the broader shift. As a result, from the policies debated at Davos to strengthened borders, the return of American power, and a New World Order rooted in law and order become reality. Notice who is protesting—it is not the immigrant community. You don’t see Punjabis or hard-working legal immigrants in those crowds. It is the same professional agitators we saw in previous years. But notice that movements like “Black Lives Matter” have vanished from the headlines? The funding dried up, the fraud was exposed, and now the anarchy is being shut down. The Outlook for 2026 As we look toward the midterm elections, the momentum is undeniable. The American people vote on results, not rhetoric. When they see their neighborhoods safer, their tax bills lower, and their country respected on the world stage, the choice becomes simple. Clearly, America’s current path—shaped by a New World Order, events at Davos, stronger borders, and the return of American strength—will resonate deeply with voters this cycle. The “New World Order” is not about global governance; it is about a strong, sovereign America leading by example. Those who understand this and come to the table to negotiate—like we saw in Davos—will succeed. Those who bet against America will lose. In conclusion, The New World Order – Davos – The Border – and the Return of American Strength continue to shape the path for America’s future.
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2026 131 Padma awards for 2026; Bollywood actor Dharmendra, ex-Kerala CM VS Achuthanandhan honoured Padma Vibhushan posthumously New Delhi [India], January 25 (ANI) President Droupadi Murmu has approved the conferment of 131 Padma awards for 2026, including two duo cases counted as single awards. Bollywood actor Dharmendra Singh Deol and former Kerala Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan have been honoured with the Padma Vibhushan posthumously. The list comprises five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards, recognising distinguished service across a wide range of fields. The Padma Vibhushan awardees include Dharmendra Singh Deol (posthumous) for Art from Maharashtra; former Supreme Court judge KT Thomas for Public Affairs from Kerala; violin maestro N Rajam for Art from Uttar Pradesh; eminent Malayalam journalist P Narayanan for Literature and Education from Kerala; and veteran Left leader and former Kerala Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan (posthumous) for Public Affairs. Recipients of the Padma Bhushan include celebrated female playback singer Alka Yagnik (Art, Maharashtra), Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari (Public Affairs, Uttarakhand), d i s t i n g u i s h e d gastroenterologist Kallipatti Ramasamy New Delhi [India], January 28 (ANI): A United States Congressional delegation led by Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Mike Rogers, along with US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, held discussions with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, centred on strengthening defence cooperation under the recently concluded 10-year Major Defence Partnership Framework Agreement. The meeting, held on January 27 featured wide-ranging discussions on deepening defence industry collaboration and advancing bilateral military ties, according to the Ministry of Defence..” US Congressional Delegation led by Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Mike Rogers met Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh today. They had wide ranging discussions including the recently concluded 10-year Major Defence Partnership Framework Agreement with emphasis on strengthening cooperation in the field of defence industry,” the Ministry of Defence said in a post on Palaniswamy (Medicine, Tamil Nadu), legendary Malayalam actor Mammootty (Art, Kerala), Dr Nori Dattatreyaudu (Medicine, United States of America), Piyush Pandey (posthumous) (Art, Maharashtra), S K M Maeilananndhan (Social Work, Tamil Nadu), Shatavadhani R Ganesh (Art, Karnataka), former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren (posthumous) (Public Affairs, Jharkhand), Uday Kotak (Trade and Industry, Maharashtra), veteran politician V K Malhotra (posthumous) (Public Affairs, Delhi), Vellappally Natesan (Public Affairs, Kerala), and Vijay Amritraj (Sports, United States of America). Among the awardees, 19 are women, while six belong to the categories of foreign nationals, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs). A total of 16 awards have been announced posthumously. The Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country, are conferred in three categories— Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. The awards are given in various disciplines and fields of activity, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service. The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and the Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. The awards are announced on Republic Day every year. These honours are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, usually during March and April each year. (ANI) tended to provide a unified vision and policy direction to deepen defence cooperation.In a post on X, Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that the framework will provide policy direction across the entire spectrum of the India-US defence relationship.” It is a signal of our growing strategic convergence and will herald a new decade of partnership. Defence will remain as the major pillar of our bilateral relations. Our partnership is critical for ensuring a free, open and rules-bound Indo-Pacific region,” he wrote.In a post, Hegseth stated that the framework advances the bilateral defence partnership, a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence.”We’re en- hancing our coordination, info sharing, and tech cooperation. Our defence ties have never been stronger,” he wrote.India and the US continue to expand and deepen their defence relationship through mili- tary-to-military exercises and activities, information sharing, collaboration with like-minded regional and global partners, defence industry, science and technology cooperation and defence coordination mechanisms. (ANI) X. US Congress delegation, envoy Gor meet Defence Secy; focus on 10-year defence partnership with India Highlighting the strength of India-US defence relations, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, in a post on X, said that the long-term framework agreement would significantly deepen bilateral defence cooperation.” Just last year, the United States and India signed a 10-year defence pact which will significantly deepen our defence partnership. Joint exercises will continue, additional sales are in progress. This is a strong relationship! Thank you for hosting us Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh,” Gor wrote in his post on Wednesday. In October 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMMPlus) in Kuala Lumpur, signed the ‘framework for the US-India major defence partnership’, which will usher in a new era in an already strong defence partnership. The 2025 framework marked a new chapter to further transform the partnership over the next 10 years and was in- For Advertisements Call: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 indiathisweekads@gmail.com We b : i n d i a t h i s w e e k . u s
9 16th EU-India Summit: Leaders to Adopt Comprehensive Strategic Agenda, Expand Regional and Multilateral Cooperation New Delhi, January 25 (ANI) — India will host the 16th EUIndia Summit on January 27, where leaders are expected to adopt a joint EU-India comprehensive strategic agenda aimed at reinforcing the strategic partnership and expanding cooperation at regional and multilateral levels. “At the summit, leaders are expected to adopt a joint EU-India comprehensive strategic agenda to reinforce the strategic partnership and deepen cooperation, delivering stability and prosperity at home and beyond,” the European External Action Service (EEAS) said in a post on X. The European Union will be represented by European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the summit, according to a statement from the European Council. Costa described India as a key global partner, saying, “India is a crucial partner for the EU. Together, we share the capacity and responsibility to protect the rules-based international order.” The summit will build on the growing momentum in EU-India relations and aims to strengthen collaboration across key sectors, including trade, security and defence, clean energy transition, and people-topeople ties. Costa and von der Leyen will also attend India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26 as chief guests. Leaders are expected to review progress on free trade agreement negotiations, first launched in 2007 and relaunched in 2022, which are seen as vital for boosting bilateral trade, investment, and shared prosperity. Discussions will New Delhi [India], January 26 (ANI): We have miles to go before we sleep, remarked veteran banker Uday Kotak on Monday as the government conferred upon him the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to the trade and industry sector. The Founder and Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank expressed his gratitude after being named among the 131 recipients of the Padma Awards 2026. Uday Kotak, on X, noted that the India of today remains unrecognisable from the one he was born in. “I am humbled and honoured to be conferred the Padma Bhushan. The India of today is unrecognisable from the one I was born in. The journey has been exhilarating. On this Republic Day, we stand at the fork of many roads. I choose the path of karma with a sense of paranoia, with aspiration, but conscious of ground realities. I have a deep conviction that we, the people will make India even greater. We have miles to go before we sleep…” U n i o n Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal also took to X to congratulate the veteran banker on the achievement. Goyal also focus on enhancing security and defence cooperation, including the establishment of a dedicated security and defence partnership. Regional and global issues on the agenda include the importance of a strong multilateral system, a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific, Russia’s war against Ukraine, and developments in the Middle East. Earlier on Sunday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the strategic depth of IndiaEU ties during her visit to India. “India and Europe have made a clear choice — the choice of strategic partnership, dialogue and openness. Leveraging our complementary strengths. And building mutual resilience,” she wrote on X. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, describing the interaction as wide-ranging and productive. “Reflected the growing comfort and strong convergences of the India-European Union partnership,” Jaishankar said in a post on X, adding that both sides agreed to intensify exchanges and advance their cooperative agenda. Jaishankar also met with Costa and von der Leyen earlier in the day, welcoming them as chief guests for the Republic Day celebrations and expressing confidence that their discussions with Prime Minister Modi would “herald a new chapter” in IndiaEU relations. The visiting leaders were received by Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, and Electronics and Information Technology, Jitin Prasada, and were accorded a guard of honour upon arrival in New Delhi. “We have miles to go before Over 40 Years Of Experience we sleep…”: Uday Kotak after FAMILY HAIRCUT $ conferred Padma Bhushan MEN • WOMEN • CHILDREN noted, “Congratulations to @UdayKotak ji, Founder & Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank, on being conferred with the Padma Bhushan for his instrumental role in shaping modern Indian banking. His contributions to strengthening the country’s financial sector remain significant and are a reflection of strong leadership & a longterm vision to further advance India’s banking ecosystem.”The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the Padma Awards 2026 on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, recognising excellence and service across diverse fields. 5 ROOT TOUCH-UP FOR MEN 20 $ The 2026 list comprises 131 awardees, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri recipients. The awards span categories such as art, public affairs, medicine, literature and education, sports, science and engineering, social work, and trade and industry. The current year’s honours include 19 women awardees and six individuals from the category of foreigners or persons of Indian origin abroad. The government also conferred 16 posthumous honours as part of the announcement. 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