Comprehensive News Updates for School Morning Assembly on January 29, 2026
Welcome to today's curated news briefing designed specifically for school assemblies, providing students and educators with essential updates from national affairs, international developments, business news, and sports highlights. These headlines are carefully selected to enhance your general knowledge and confidence during morning presentations.
National Headlines: Parliamentary Proceedings and Tragic Incident
Budget Session of Parliament Commences with Presidential Address
The crucial Budget Session of Parliament began on Wednesday with President Droupadi Murmu addressing a joint sitting of both Houses. Following this significant address, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned for the day. This parliamentary session is scheduled to span 65 days with 30 sittings, concluding on April 2, 2026.
The legislative schedule includes an adjournment period from February 13 to March 9, during which Standing Committees will meticulously examine Demands for Grants from various ministries and departments. Key economic documents will be presented with the Economic Survey scheduled for January 29, followed by the Union Budget for 2026–27 on February 1, setting the financial roadmap for the coming fiscal year.
Tragic Plane Crash Claims Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister
In a devastating aviation accident, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar lost his life on Wednesday morning. The chartered aircraft carrying him crashed during landing at Baramati airport, resulting in no survivors among the six people on board.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of Pawar's two personnel, his personal security officer, flight attendant Pinky Mali, and both crew members—pilot Captain Sumit Kapoor and co-pilot Captain Shambhavi Pathak. This accident has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra's political landscape and aviation community.
Business and Economic Developments
Amazon Announces Workforce Reductions
Global e-commerce giant Amazon has confirmed significant job cuts as part of its ongoing restructuring efforts. While specific numbers haven't been disclosed, this development reflects broader trends in the technology and retail sectors facing economic adjustments.
Financial Regulatory Cooperation Strengthened
The Reserve Bank of India and the European Union's markets regulator, ESMA, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance information sharing regarding central counterparties. This agreement aims to strengthen cross-border financial stability and regulatory coordination between Indian and European markets.
International Affairs Update
Texas Implements Temporary H-1B Visa Restrictions
Texas Governor has announced a temporary halt on new H-1B visa petitions at state agencies and universities until next year. This policy decision affects skilled foreign workers seeking employment in Texas's public institutions and educational establishments, reflecting ongoing debates about immigration policies in the United States.
Sports Highlights: Cricket Dominance Continues
India Prepares for Fourth T20I Against New Zealand
The Indian cricket team is set to face New Zealand in the fourth T20 International at Visakhapatnam's ACA-VDCA Stadium today. Having already secured the series with a commanding 3-0 lead, the Men in Blue have demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the first three matches against the Kiwis.
This match presents an opportunity for team experimentation and giving emerging players international exposure while maintaining competitive intensity against the visiting New Zealand side.
Education and Career Developments
IISc Bengaluru Revises BTech Admission Process
The Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, has announced that BTech admissions will now be conducted through JEE Advanced 2026 ranks followed by JoSAA counseling. This standardized approach aligns with national engineering admission processes and ensures transparency in student selection for one of India's premier scientific institutions.
Music Industry Update
Renowned playback singer Arijit Singh has announced his retirement from mainstream playback singing to focus on creating original music. He expressed his commitment to remaining connected with Indian classical traditions and looks forward to drawing inspiration from upcoming vocal talents in the music industry.
These comprehensive updates provide valuable talking points for school assemblies, helping students stay informed about current events while developing their presentation skills and general awareness.
