Maharashtra mandates Marathi for auto and taxi drivers from August 18

‘Suspicion cannot substitute proof’: Maoist leader acquitted in VHP leader case

Tamil Nadu extends maternity leave to 365 days for third child of state employees

The Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister Vijay, has announced a significant expansion of maternity leave for women state employees, extending it to 365 days for a third child. The decision was revealed by minister D Sarathkumar during the state assembly's demand for grants discussion. The move is intended to reinforce the government's commitment to social welfare and women's empowerment. Tamil Nadu has progressively enhanced maternity leave benefits over the years, raising the original 90-day provision to six months in 2011 and then to nine months in 2016.

Activist Abhijeet Dipke's Campaign Gets First Computer for Village School

A government school in Santuk Pimpri village has received its first computer following advocacy by Abhijeet Dipke under his 'School Thik Karo' initiative. Dipke had visited the school and flagged significant infrastructure shortcomings, prompting local authorities to act. In addition to providing the computer, officials undertook repairs and improved the school's water supply. During visits to other schools, Dipke also found students performing cleaning duties and consuming unsafe drinking water. He pledged to ensure that all necessary resources and improvements would be delivered to the affected schools.

Teen inventor wins national award for AI cane built for the visually impaired

Ishanvi Sabniveesu, a teenage innovator, has developed CareCane, an AI-powered walking cane designed to assist visually impaired users. The device helps users detect obstacles, interpret their surroundings, and call for emergency help when needed. CareCane also functions offline, making it accessible in areas with limited connectivity. The invention earned Sabniveesu second place at the Invention Convention U.S. Nationals. She is now working on expanding the cane's features and has begun the process of seeking a patent.