Delhi-NCR shivers at 3°C, Gurugram dips below zero for 2nd day, air quality remains ‘very poor’; IMD issues alert for Punjab, Haryana

The IMD indicated that yellow alerts will remain in place until January 17, signalling a prolonged spell of biting cold across the region. The impact was stark on the ground, with massive ground frost and ice formation reported across Gurugram’s outskirts for the second consecutive morning.
West Bengal Nipah virus scare: Two nurses ‘very critical’, all you need to know about causes and symptoms

Two nurses from a private hospital in Barasat, West Bengal, are in critical condition with suspected Nipah virus infection. Samples have been sent to AIIMS Kalyani for confirmation as authorities step up surveillance, contact tracing, and precautionary measures.
Germany allows visa-free transit for Indians, here is what it means

A transit visa is a short-term permit that allows travellers to pass through a country for a layover, en route to their final destination. To obtain this visa, travellers must provide proof of onward travel and demonstrate that they do not intend to stay in the country for an extended period.
Stray dogs case: SC to impose heavy penalties on states for every dog bite death, says, ‘will be fixing heavy compensation’

During the hearing, the Supreme Court asked, “For every dog bite, for every death, we will be likely fixing heavy compensation for states for not making requisite arrangements.”
Republic Day 2026: Delhi airspace to remain closed from January 21, over 600 flights to be affected, here’s all you need to know

The Delhi airspace will remain closed daily from January 21 to 26 for Republic Day rehearsals and celebrations, disrupting over 600 flights. The restrictions may cause delays, cancellations, and missed connections during an already challenging winter travel period.
Operation Sindoor: India was ready to launch ground offensive, reveals army chief, warns against 8 terror camps still active in Pakistan

While addressing the annual press conference in the capital, he said the Armed forces had complete freedom to “act or respond” during Op Sindoor.
Maharashtra: Zilla parishads, panchayat samitis elections to be held on Feb 5; check details

The election schedule was announced a day after the Supreme Court extended the January 31 timeline for completing the poll process for local body elections by two weeks.
In major crackdown on gun culture, mafia lifestyle, Haryana police take down 67 songs from social media

In a major crackdown on spreading violence-related content, the Haryana Police have taken down 67 songs from all digital platforms that promote gang lifestyle and extol weapons and violence. The Haryana Police’s cybercrime unit has been deployed in monitoring social media and taking direct action.
Who is DB Venkatesh Varma? Senior Indian diplomat nominated by UN to chair its body on disarmament, check details

Senior Indian envoy DB Venkatesh Varma has been nominated by the UN Secretary General to chair the Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters for the 2026-27 period. The nomination is significant and historical as it marks the first time any Indian has held the position.
J-K: Multiple drone sightings reported near LoC, second time in 48 hours

The Indian Army responded by firing at the drones and launching a thorough search operation to look for any potential consignment drops. This marks the second such incident within just 48 hours, leading to a heightened state of vigilance along the LoC and the International Border.