A 25-year-old Indian student, Vivek Saini, working part-time at a convenience store in Georgia, USA, was tragically killed by a homeless man, Julian Faulkner. Despite the store employees' efforts to provide food and shelter to Faulkner, he brutally attacked Saini with a hammer after being asked to leave. Saini sustained severe head trauma and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Faulkner was arrested by DeKalb County police, with knives and another hammer seized from him. Saini, who had recently earned a Master's in Business Administration, migrated to the US two years ago after completing his B.Tech. Faulkner faces charges of malice murder and interference with government property.      

The Indian Navy swiftly deployed INS Visakhapatnam in response to a distress call from the British oil tanker, Marlin Luanda, attacked by Yemen's Houthi group on January 26. With 22 Indians and 1 Bangladeshi onboard, the Navy is aiding firefighting efforts. The vessel, operated by Trafigura, suffered a missile strike in the Red Sea. This incident follows a similar attack on an oil tanker carrying Indians by Houthis in December 2023. The UK government asserts the right to respond appropriately, highlighting escalating tensions in the Gulf of Aden. The confrontation also involved the Houthi attack on the US warship USS Carney.

Infosys founder Narayana Murthy and wife Sudha Murty shared insights on dealing with public scrutiny regarding daughter Akshata Murthy and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Sudha Murty advised, "'Kuch toh log kahenge, logon ka kaam hai kehna'. So, ignore that." Emphasizing ethical work, she encouraged, "God is the witness. Do your work, let them talk." Narayana Murthy refrained from commenting on Sunak's rise, stating, "As foreigners, we have this respect for not commenting on the affairs of another country." The couple maintains close personal relations with Sunak but refrains from public commentary.            

Canada's National Security and Intelligence Advisor (NSIA), Jody Thomas, revealed increased cooperation from India regarding the investigation into the murder of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Thomas, upon her retirement, highlighted advancements in the relationship, echoing sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in December. Describing discussions with Indian counterparts as fruitful, Thomas emphasized India's closer collaboration in resolving the issue. The positive development follows previous tensions, including diplomatic expulsions and paused negotiations. With Canadian law enforcement reportedly surveilling two suspects linked to Nijjar's murder, the NSIA's comments suggest progress towards resolving the case. Nathalie G Drouin will succeed Thomas as NSIA.

French President Emmanuel Macron, Republic Day's chief guest, pledges to boost Indian student enrollment in France, targeting 30,000 by 2030. Macron outlined plans, including setting up international classes for non-French speakers and expanding Alliance Française centers. "It's a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen," he stated. The initiatives aim to facilitate language barriers, making French education accessible. Macron also assured streamlined visa processes for former Indian students who studied in France. This move signifies France's commitment to fostering educational ties with India on its 75th Republic Day.

High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami marked Republic Day 2024 by unfurling the Tricolour at the Indian Embassy in London. The low-key ceremony was attended by community members and officials, fostering a sense of unity. Doraiswami, in his address, highlighted the significance of the day and reiterated the strong ties between India and the UK. The event aimed to celebrate the 75th Republic Day in a modest yet meaningful way, emphasizing the diplomatic relations and shared heritage between the two nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership on India's 75th Republic Day. Commending India's economic growth under Modi's leadership, Putin noted the nation's pursuit of an independent foreign policy. Putin expressed confidence, stating, "Russia can rely on India," highlighting the absence of diplomatic games. He lauded India's 'Make in India' initiative and announced significant Russian investments. Acknowledging India's rich culture, Putin mentioned the popularity of Indian movies in Russia. The comments came during an interaction with university students in Kaliningrad. This comes amid strengthening Indo-Russian ties with recent high-level exchanges.            

Oxford University has terminated its collaboration with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for admission tests due to significant technical challenges faced by candidates, test centers, and parents during the 2023 online admissions tests. The decision follows a comprehensive review of the issues and feedback received. TCS, which won a contract worth approximately $5 million last year, had been responsible for managing Oxford's admission tests. The university is now actively exploring alternative options for admission tests in 2024 and beyond. The announcement was made through an official notice titled 'Important Notice' on Oxford University's website, with a commitment to communicate new arrangements by early Spring.

India initiates the delivery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines, fulfilling a $375 million agreement signed two years ago. Ground systems will arrive in the next 10 days, followed by missile delivery by March, as confirmed by DRDO chief Samir V Kamat. This marks the first export order for the BrahMos missile developed by India and Russia. India aims for a ₹35,000 crore defence export target by 2024-25, witnessing a significant rise in military exports and a drop in imports due to policy initiatives and reforms.

Global applause follows India's historic 'pran pratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir, with the world recognizing it as a significant move in the nation's decolonization journey. The event is hailed for reviving Hindu civilization, marking a proud moment and global celebration. International voices emphasize the temple's cultural impact and its place as a symbol of a new, rapidly developing India. Diverse backgrounds of supporters underscore the resonance of India's resilience. The world witnesses a civilizational awakening, acknowledging India's transformative path post-colonial era.