Ajit Pawar's Fatal Crash, India-EU FTA, Nipah Resurgence: This Week's Top News

• Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar died in a Learjet 45 crash near Baramati airport, raising questions about NCP leadership.
• India and the EU finalized a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), expected to significantly reduce tariffs and boost trade.
• The Nipah virus resurfaced with two confirmed cases in West Bengal, causing anxiety and leading to airport screenings across Asia.
• India celebrated its 77th Republic Day with a grand parade showcasing military might and European leaders as chief guests.
• The Supreme Court put UGC's new equity regulations, aimed at preventing caste-based discrimination, in abeyance after backlash.

Why It Matters: This week saw major news from India: a political tragedy, a landmark trade deal, a health scare, and national celebrations.