Local Round-up: Republic Day Parade Firsts, Gallantry Awards, and India-EU Trade Breakthrough

India marked its 77th Republic Day with unprecedented military displays while honoring heroes across services with prestigious gallantry awards. The nation also took significant steps in global trade relations, promising to reshape its economic landscape and international partnerships in the coming year. Here’s your Local Round-up of all major local news and stories from across the nation.

77th Republic Day Parade Showcases Military Firsts

The 77th Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2026, witnessed unprecedented firsts including the newly-raised Bhairav light commando battalion, 61 Cavalry in battle gear for the first time, and DRDO's Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile capable of Mach 10 speeds. Double-humped Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, and Suryastra rocket launcher system also made historic debuts at Kartavya Path.

Gallantry Awards: Shukla Gets Ashoka Chakra, Naval Officers Honored

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla received the Ashoka Chakra on January 26, 2026, India's highest peacetime gallantry award, for his historic June 2025 International Space Station mission via Axiom-4. Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A were awarded Shaurya Chakra for completing a 21,600-nautical-mile global circumnavigation aboard INSV Tarini. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi received the Vishisht Seva Medal for Operation Sindoor leadership.

India to Slash EU Car Tariffs to 40% in Historic Trade Deal

India plans to reduce car import tariffs from the European Union to 40% from as high as 110%, marking the biggest opening of the country's automobile market. The tariffs will be further lowered to 10% over time for vehicles priced above €15,000, benefiting brands like Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW. The trade deal is expected to be announced on January 28, 2026.

Supreme Court Panel Finds Greater Noida's Grand Venice Project Unfit for Occupancy

A Supreme Court-appointed panel found Greater Noida's Grand Venice housing project unfit for occupancy, citing multiple structural and safety violations. The findings raise serious concerns about the residential complex's construction quality and compliance with building regulations, affecting hundreds of homebuyers who invested in the project expecting quality living standards.

BBC's Mark Tully, 'Voice of India,' Passes Away at 90

Sir Mark Tully, the legendary BBC correspondent known as the "Voice of India," died on January 25, 2026, at Max Hospital Saket, New Delhi, aged 90. Born in Kolkata in 1935, Tully served as BBC's bureau chief for 22 years, reporting defining moments including the 1971 Bangladesh war, Operation Blue Star, and Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. He received Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and was knighted in 2002.

Dhurandhar Enters IMDb's Top 250 Films List

Ranveer Singh starrer "Dhurandhar" has entered IMDb's prestigious Top 250 films of all time list, joining an elite group that includes "The Godfather," "Inception," and Indian films like "Gangs of Wasseypur." With an IMDb rating placing it among cinema's greatest achievements, the film marks a significant milestone for contemporary Indian cinema on the global stage.

Banking Operations Disrupted on January 27 as Unions Strike for Five-Day Week

Banking operations across India will be affected on January 27, 2026, as unions go on strike demanding a five-day work week. The nationwide strike by banking employees is expected to disrupt services including cheque clearance, cash deposits, and withdrawals. Customers are advised to plan their banking activities accordingly as ATM services may also face limitations.

Renowned Odia Music Composer Abhijit Majumdar Passes Away

Celebrated Odia music composer Abhijit Majumdar passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy in regional cinema and music. Known for his melodious compositions that captured the essence of Odia culture, Majumdar contributed significantly to the state's music industry. Tributes poured in from the film fraternity and fans mourning the loss of a musical genius.

Massive Data Breach Exposes 149 Million Instagram, Gmail, Netflix Passwords

A massive security breach exposed 149 million stolen usernames and passwords from popular platforms including Instagram, Gmail, and Netflix. The breach highlights serious cybersecurity vulnerabilities affecting millions of users globally. Security experts urge immediate password changes and enabling two-factor authentication to protect accounts from unauthorized access following this major data compromise.

Homebound Misses Oscar Nomination in Best International Feature Category

India's official entry "Homebound" failed to secure a nomination in the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. The film's exclusion from the final nominations disappointed Indian cinema enthusiasts who had high hopes for its recognition on the global stage, continuing India's challenging journey at the Academy Awards.

India's Livestock Census Finally Recognizes Pastoralists

For the first time in history, India's livestock census has officially recognized pastoralists and their mobile herding practices. This landmark inclusion marks a significant policy shift, acknowledging the crucial role of pastoral communities in livestock management. The recognition is expected to improve data accuracy and help design better policies for pastoral livelihoods.

India's First Offshore Airport at Vadhavan to Cost Rs. 45000 Crore

India's ambitious first offshore airport at Vadhavan is set to cost Rs. 45,000 crore and handle 90 million passengers annually. The mega infrastructure project promises to revolutionize air travel connectivity while serving as a model for future coastal airport developments. The facility will significantly boost India's aviation capacity and international connectivity.