Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Malda, West Bengal, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple rail and road infrastructure projects worth over ₹3,250 crore aimed at improving connectivity within the state and with the North-Eastern region. These include new rail lines, upgraded maintenance facilities and electrification works that are expected to boost travel, trade, and employment. Modi also flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train on the Howrah–Guwahati route, marking a milestone in railway modernisation. Additionally, four Amrit Bharat Express trains were introduced to enhance long-distance connectivity. (PC: ANI)

A report citing doctors working inside Iran has claimed that at least 16,500 protesters were killed and about 330,000 injured during the recent crackdown on demonstrations. The protests began over economic issues and later expanded into calls for political change. The report says many victims suffered gunshot and shrapnel wounds to the head, neck, and chest. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has acknowledged “several thousand” deaths but rejected higher figures. In contrast, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency has verified just over 3,000 deaths so far. Independent verification of higher numbers remains difficult due to internet restrictions. (PC: HT)

India has adjusted its engagement at Iran’s Chabahar Port, a strategic seaport that gives New Delhi access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan. Reports of a forced exit under US sanctions triggered political debate, but the government has denied any withdrawal. The Ministry of External Affairs said India continues operations under a US sanctions waiver valid until April 26, 2026, and discussions are ongoing for an extension. Experts say this is a temporary recalibration due to sanctions pressure. While Chabahar is vital for regional connectivity and trade routes, analysts note India’s financial exposure remains limited at present. (PC: X)

NASA has moved its Space Launch System rocket to the launch pad in Florida as final preparations begin for the Artemis II mission. The 98-metre-tall rocket took nearly 12 hours to travel from the assembly building to Launch Pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center. Artemis II will carry four astronauts on a 10-day mission around the Moon, the first crewed lunar flight since 1972. NASA said final checks and a fuel test will take place next. The earliest possible launch date is February 6, with more windows expected in the coming months. (PC: BBC, X)

The Met Office has said colder conditions could return across the UK toward the end of January, raising the likelihood of snow in some areas. This weekend is expected to bring mostly average temperatures, with highs between 6C and 10C, along with cloud, fog, and periods of rain. Some regions may see brief sunny spells, but cooler air will keep temperatures lower overall. From around January 22, forecasters expect Atlantic weather systems to meet colder air from the east. This clash could lead to a shift toward colder weather, though the forecast remains uncertain. (PC: Sky News)

A. R. Rahman has released a video statement after facing criticism over comments made in a recent interview. The composer said India is his inspiration, teacher, and home, and stressed that his remarks were misunderstood. Rahman said his intention was never to hurt anyone and that he has always tried to serve the country through music. He highlighted his work with young artists, orchestras, and multicultural projects across India. Rahman also said he feels honoured to compose music for Ramayana. He ended the video by expressing gratitude to the nation and reaffirming his commitment to music rooted in Indian culture.

Iranian protesters say former US President Donald Trump “fooled and deceived” them after hopes of American support during the unrest failed to materialise. Many demonstrators believed Trump’s public warnings to Iran and social media posts showed the US was ready to act. Some said his comment that the US was “locked and loaded” pushed people back onto the streets. Iranian authorities later shut down internet services and used force to crush protests. When Trump later said Iran’s leaders had assured him killings would stop, he ruled out military action. Protesters say the sudden shift left them exposed and led to the collapse of the movement. (PC: X)

The European Parliament has suspended ratification of a trade deal with the United States after President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on some European countries. The move followed Trump’s decision to impose extra duties on nations that sent troops to Greenland. EU lawmakers said a zero-tariff pact cannot move forward under such pressure. Leaders warned that countermeasures may be considered under EU anti-coercion rules. The trade deal, agreed last year to ease tensions, aimed to stabilise tariffs and improve transatlantic trade ties. (PC: India Today)

Police in Varanasi registered eight FIRs over alleged AI-generated images and misleading posts about redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat. Officials said the visuals shared on social media were false and aimed at hurting religious sentiments and disturbing public order. The cases name eight individuals and several X handles. Police said action will also cover those who reposted the content. Opposition leaders raised concerns online, prompting a response from Yogi Adityanath, who called the claims false propaganda. He said redevelopment is ongoing and warned of strict action against misinformation. (PC: HT)

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said for the first time that thousands were killed during recent nationwide protests. Speaking on Saturday, he blamed the United States and Israel for the deaths. The unrest began in late December over economic issues and later turned into calls against Iran’s leadership. The Human Rights Activists News Agency said at least 3,090 people were killed, though activists believe the toll is higher. A near-total internet shutdown has limited information. US President Donald Trump urged protests to continue and warned of possible action. (PC: BBC)