THE HINDU DATED 28TH JANUARY 2026

Summary of Important News Items and Editorials-87

THE HINDU DATED 28TH JANUARY 2026.

1. ‘Mother of all deals’: India and the EU finalise FTA

The lead story reports the formal conclusion of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement after nearly two decades of on-and-off negotiations. The pact is projected as the “mother of all deals” because it covers roughly 90% of Indian exports to the EU and a wide range of goods and services. Politically, both sides frame the FTA as a signal of strategic convergence amid global turmoil, supply-chain reordering and pressures from U.S.–China rivalry. India highlights market access for its exporters, especially in textiles, leather, processed foods and services, while presenting the deal as consistent with its “Atmanirbhar” emphasis through calibrated tariff cuts and safeguards. The EU stresses predictability, regulatory alignment and greener standards. The lo