Morning briefing: Macron's visit to boost India-France ties; setback for Maldives Prez's party, all latest news
A shortlist of the biggest headlines, recommended stories, and a special collection of news items you should check out.
French President Emmanuel Macron is set to receive a grand Rajputana welcome upon his arrival in Jaipur on January 25, coinciding with his role as the Chief Guest for India's 75th Republic Day. The visit signifies a deepening military-industrial partnership with a focus on local manufacturing. Diplomatic advisor Emmanuel Bonne and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval have finalised substantive details, while finer aspects of the two-day visit are still under consideration. The event promises to be a spectacular showcase in honour of President Macron. Dig deeper

More on India-France:
Jaishankar, Macron’s diplomatic advisor discuss India-France convergence
Not U.S. Or Russia, France Is India’s Most Dependable Ally | Point Blank With Shishir Gupta
In the midst of a diplomatic dispute between Male and New Delhi, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu faces a setback as the pro-India opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) clinches a resounding win in the mayoral election of the capital, Male. MDP's candidate, Adam Azim, secures victory, taking over the mayoral position previously held by Muizzu, who resigned to pursue the presidential elections last year. This electoral outcome signals a political shift in the Maldivian capital in favour of the pro-India opposition. Dig deeper
More on India-Maldives:
Maldives president amid India row: ‘We aren’t in anyone's backyard, so…'
Why New Delhi cold shouldered Maldives plan for Prez Muizzu’s India visit
The Latest News
Dense fog grips north India, zero visibility in Delhi; IMD urges extreme caution Dig deeper
Kangana Ranaut attends Ira Khan-Nupur Shikhare's wedding reception, poses with Aamir Khan after calling him ‘bechara’ Dig deeper
India News
Bengaluru CEO Suchana Seth, husband confronted by Goa Police over son's murder: What happened next? Dig deeper
3,000 participants, 1-hour duration: Rahul Gandhi to kick-start Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from Manipur amid restrictions Dig deeper
Global Matters
Jeffrey Epstein list: Final set of documents expose paedophile's last words on sex trafficking claims Dig deeper
John Kerry leaves White House to propel Joe Biden's 2024 re-election campaign Dig deeper
Sports Goings
Age proves to be merely a number for tennis legend Novak Djokovic, who, at 36, stands as an epitome in the sport's history. In a field dominated by talented youngsters and absent of Rafael Nadal due to injury and Roger Federer retired for two years, Djokovic remains the formidable force. This narrative continues into the 2024 Australian Open, where the Serb aims to defend his title. Commencing his campaign on Sunday at the iconic Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic embodies a sustained prowess that defies the passage of time in the world of tennis. Dig deeper
Entertainment Focus
In a surprising turn of events, actor Kangana Ranaut attended the wedding reception of Aamir Khan's daughter, Ira Khan, and her husband Nupur Shikhare. This appearance follows Kangana's previous reference to Aamir as 'bechara' (poor guy) months ago. Sharing a photo on Instagram Stories, Kangana posed with the Khan family, standing between Ira and Aamir's first wife, Reena Dutta. Aamir himself was captured posing for paparazzi in the same frame. The unexpected presence of Kangana at the celebration adds a twist to the dynamics, showcasing a moment of camaraderie amid past remarks. Dig deeper
Lifestyle and Health
Ira Khan, daughter of Aamir Khan and Reena Dutta, celebrated her wedding to Nupur Shikhare with a lavish white wedding in Udaipur, followed by a star-studded Mumbai reception. The high-profile guest list included luminaries from entertainment, sports, politics, and business sectors, such as Rekha, Jaya Bachchan, Katrina Kaif, Kangana Ranaut, Sachin Tendulkar, Nita and Mukesh Ambani, and many more. The attendees, adorned in exquisite ethnic wear, witnessed the couple's reception attire. Nupur and Ira looked stunning in their reception outfits, adding glamour to an already star-studded event. The celebration marked a union witnessed by some of the biggest names in India's public sphere. Dig deeper
That’s all we have at this hour in our Morning briefing. Catch you in the afternoon
ABOUT THE AUTHORHT News DeskFollow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

E-Paper


