School assembly headlines (January 12): Your daily update of national, international and sports news

Good evening, everyone. Here is a clear and student-friendly roundup of the most important national, international, and sports news of the day. Each update explains what happened, where it happened, and why it matters. Staying aware of such events helps students better understand the country, the world, and the role India plays globally.

National News

• Suspected Pak drones spotted along LoC, IB in J-K; search operations launched
  Security agencies on Sunday evening detected suspected drone activity in multiple forward areas along the International Border and Line of Control in Samba, Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said the drones were seen entering from the Pakistan side, hovering briefly over Indian territory, and then returning.
   
• India’s first space mission of 2026 set for liftoff on January 12
  The Indian Space Research Organisation has begun a 22.5-hour countdown for the launch of PSLV-C62, marking the country’s first space mission of 2026. The launch is scheduled for 10.18 am on January 12 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

• India strengthens maritime security ties with ReCAAP ISC 
  India has announced plans to deepen cooperation with the Singapore-based ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre. The move aims to strengthen information sharing to tackle piracy and armed robbery at sea. Officials said the initiative will help improve maritime safety across key Asian shipping routes.

• CII pushes for faster privatisation of PSUs
  The Confederation of Indian Industry has urged the Centre to speed up the privatisation of PSUs. It said a market-driven approach could unlock nearly Rs 10 lakh crore in value. The proposal was submitted ahead of the Union Budget 2026–27.
   
• Retired Army officer killed in Haryana hit-and-run
  An 85-year-old retired Army officer died after being hit by an unidentified vehicle in Panchkula. The incident occurred near the Mansa Devi Complex during his evening walk. Police said efforts are on to trace the vehicle and identify the driver.
   
• Mahayuti unveils BMC election manifesto
  The ruling Mahayuti alliance released its manifesto ahead of BMC elections. Key promises include interest-free loans for women and making Mumbai slum-free. The alliance also proposed using AI to identify illegal immigrants.
   
• PM Modi recalls sacrifice for Somnath temple
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Somnath Swabhiman Parv in Gujarat. He said India’s ancestors sacrificed their lives to protect the Somnath temple. The remarks highlighted the historical and cultural importance of the site.
   
• Indian Idol winner Prashant Tamang passes away
  Singer and actor Prashant Tamang died at his New Delhi residence at the age of 43. He rose to fame after winning Indian Idol Season 3. He is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
   
• LeT deputy chief video sparks terror link concerns
  A viral video allegedly shows Saifullah Kasuri admitting links with the Pakistan Army. The clip has renewed allegations of institutional support for terror groups. Security agencies are closely monitoring the situation.
   
• Kerala MLA arrested in third rape case
  Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil was taken into police custody on Sunday. The arrest followed a fresh complaint alleging rape and abetment of abortion. Further investigation is ongoing.
   
• Amit Shah demands neutral probe on Sabarimala issue
  Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised the Kerala government over alleged gold theft. He demanded a probe by a neutral investigation agency. Shah warned of consequences if action is not taken.
   
• Odisha aircraft crash landing update
  Two injured passengers from the Odisha crash landing were airlifted to Mumbai. Another passenger remains on ventilator support. The incident occurred near Rourkela during an emergency landing.
   
• Puja Khedkar alleges theft by domestic help
  Former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar filed a complaint in Pune. She alleged her domestic help drugged her family and stole valuables. Police have begun a preliminary investigation.

International News

• US President Trump issues ultimatum to Cuba

  US President Donald Trump on Sunday urged Cuba to “make a deal” or face repercussions, warning that the flow of Venezuelan oil and financial support to Havana would now be cut off. In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that most Cubans had been killed in last week’s US attacks and added that Venezuela no longer needed protection, saying it now had the United States on its side.

• US weighs military options against Iran
  US media reports said Donald Trump has been briefed on military options. These include possible targeted strikes linked to Iran’s security services. Tensions remain high amid ongoing protests in Iran.
   
• Islamabad gas blast kills newlywed couple
  A gas cylinder explosion during a wedding killed eight people in Islamabad. The bride and groom were among the deceased. Several others were injured in the incident.

• Iran warns US and Israel of retaliation 
  Iran said the US and Israel would be “legitimate targets” if attacked. The warning was issued by Iran’s parliament speaker. Regional tensions continue to escalate.

Sports News

• India vs NZ 1st ODI – match result
  India defeated New Zealand by 4 wickets in the first ODI of the series, taking a 1-0 lead. Chasing 301, India finished on 306/6 with KL Rahul sealing the win. 
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