Top News: Modi-Trump talks, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumes, Bumrah & Mandhana shine at ICC Awards

From strengthening global partnerships to record-breaking sports achievements and policy milestones, today's headlines highlight key developments shaping India and the world. Here’s a roundup of the top news stories making waves.

Modi-Trump Talks Strengthen India-US Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed advancing cooperation in technology, trade, and defence during their first call since Trump’s second term began. Modi extended congratulations to his "dear friend," while Trump hinted at a potential visit by the Indian PM to the White House in February, showcasing the strong relationship between the two nations.

Also Read: PM Modi likely to visit White House in February, says US President Trump

India-China Revive Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Flights

In a step toward mending ties, India and China agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025, suspended since 2020, and restart direct flights. The decisions were part of discussions between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing.

Also Read: India-China agree to resume Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights

Uttarakhand Implements Uniform Civil Code

Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to roll out the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), governing marriage, divorce, live-in relationships, and succession across all faiths, barring Scheduled Tribes. The code aims to ensure equality and protect women in live-in relationships.

Also Read: Uttarakhand becomes first Indian state to implement Uniform Civil Code

Bumrah and Mandhana Dominate ICC Awards

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah bagged the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year award, taking 71 wickets in 2024, while Smriti Mandhana won the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year for scoring 747 runs in 13 innings.

Maha Kumbh Drives Prayagraj Airfares Sky-High

With the Maha Kumbh Mela in full swing, airfares to Prayagraj have surged by over 600%, with some tickets costing up to ₹60,000. The DGCA has intervened, adding 81 flights to manage demand and control prices as millions flock to the Sangam for the auspicious ‘Mauni Amavasya’ on January 29.

Calcutta HC Reserves Order in RG Kar Rape Case

The Calcutta High Court reserved its decision on parallel petitions by the CBI and the West Bengal government seeking the death penalty for Sanjay Roy in the RG Kar rape and murder case. The victim’s family opposed capital punishment for now, urging an investigation to uncover all those involved.

Saif Ali Khan Attack Probe Expands

Mumbai Police questioned a woman in West Bengal linked to providing a SIM card to Sariful Islam, the Bangladeshi national accused of stabbing actor Saif Ali Khan. The suspect allegedly entered India illegally and lived under an alias.

Kris Gopalakrishnan Among 18 Booked Under SC/ST Act

Infosys co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan and 17 others were booked under the SC/ST Atrocities Act following a complaint alleging caste-based harassment of a former IISc faculty member.

Trump Targets Gurdwaras in Immigration Crackdown

US immigration officials visited New York and New Jersey gurdwaras as part of a crackdown on “illegal” immigrants, sparking outrage from Sikh organisations over targeting places of worship.

‘Chhaava’ Filmmakers Remove Controversial Scene

Following objections from Maharashtra leaders, the makers of the film Chhaava have decided to remove a Lezim dance sequence featuring Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Director Laxman Utekar confirmed the changes after consulting MNS chief Raj Thackeray.