Government Considers Protocols for Vande Mataram Recitation

A high-level government meeting was convened earlier this month to discuss potential protocols for the recitation of the national song Vande Mataram, similar to those in place for the national anthem Jana Gana Mana, sources at The Indian Express reveal.

Government's Effort to Elevate Vande Mataram's Standing

The Centre recently initiated a year-long celebration of Vande Mataram as part of its efforts to enhance the song's prominence. The ruling BJP has accused the Congress of diminishing Vande Mataram's significance through appeasement politics and the removal of crucial stanzas during the Congress session in 1937.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement - A Strategic Choice

High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the importance of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement ahead of the state visit of European Union leaders from January 25 to 27. Kallas stated that the agreement is a "strategic choice" and offers an opportunity to reduce dependency on China, Russia, and the US.

EU-India to Sign Security and Defence Partnership

During the India-EU leaders' summit on January 27, the EU and India are set to sign a new Security and Defence Partnership, further strengthening the ties between the two entities.

Sheikh Hasina's Five-Point Demand for Bangladesh's Democracy

Following the commencement of campaigning for the parliamentary elections in Bangladesh on February 12, ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued a five-point demand to restore the country's democratic and pluralistic traditions in a recorded address to the nation.

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