India

Police summon V K Pandian in Odisha missing inquiry reports case

Dharmendra Pradhan Once Led Street Protests Against Paper Leak as ABVP Student Leader

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has a history of activism against examination paper leaks dating back roughly 30 years. As a student leader affiliated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), he took to the streets of Bhubaneswar to protest against such malpractices. His demonstrations were directed at the then Odisha government led by Chief Minister Janaki Patnaik. The episode highlights that concerns over paper leaks in India's examination system are longstanding and not a new phenomenon.

TMC MLA Kunal Ghosh Suspended, Removed from West Bengal Assembly by Marshals

Trinamool Congress MLA Kunal Ghosh was suspended from the West Bengal Assembly after causing a disruption during a budget debate session. He interrupted a fellow legislator while they were speaking, prompting the Speaker to take action. After refusing to return to his seat, marshals were called in to physically escort him out of the House. The incident has drawn attention to apparent tensions within the Trinamool Congress legislature party. Normal assembly proceedings were able to resume only once Ghosh had been removed from the chamber.

Patrik Laine's Wife Sparks Washington Capitals Speculation With Social Media Posts

Former Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine remains unsigned as one of the top unrestricted free agents this NHL offseason. No official announcement has been made regarding his next team. His wife, Jordan Leigh, recently responded to fan questions on social media, inadvertently reigniting speculation about his future destination. Her comments have directed attention toward the Washington Capitals as a potential landing spot. Laine is reportedly still weighing his options ahead of the new season.

NASA Study: Controlled Burns Cut Giant Sequoia Fire Deaths by 75%

Giant sequoias, which can survive for up to 3,000 years, have suffered unprecedented losses in recent California wildfire seasons, with roughly one in five trees destroyed. A NASA-funded study has found that prescribed burning significantly boosts their chances of survival. Mature sequoias growing in forests that had undergone controlled burns were four times less likely to perish in wildfires. This is because managed burns reduce combustible fuel on the forest floor, causing fires to spread at lower intensity. Researchers are now calling for an expansion of prescribed burning programs to protect these ancient trees from future wildfires.

Meghalaya offers 70% subsidy for homestays ahead of National Games 2027

Meghalaya has launched a homestay development scheme offering a 70 percent subsidy to local residents looking to start or upgrade hospitality businesses. The initiative is timed ahead of the National Games 2027, with the state aiming to boost tourism infrastructure. Eligible applicants can access grants covering new constructions as well as upgrades to existing properties, along with financial and technical assistance. The program also includes training opportunities to help participants build sustainable tourism enterprises. Additionally, registered homestays will be listed on digital platforms to improve their visibility and reach.

Snakes Found Stealing Eggs From Chicken Coops, Experts Suggest Humane Deterrents

Chicken keepers have been reporting snakes entering nesting boxes and consuming eggs, initially leaving owners puzzled about the disappearances. The reptiles are attracted to coops by the warmth they provide and the presence of stored chicken feed. Wildlife experts recommend humane deterrents over harsh chemicals as a more effective and sustainable long-term solution. Simple preventive measures such as collecting eggs frequently and securing feed storage can significantly reduce snake intrusions. Properly reinforcing coops can protect egg supplies while still allowing snakes to play their natural role in the broader ecosystem.

Trump administration set to announce civilian nuclear cooperation deal with Saudi Arabia

The Trump White House is preparing to unveil a major nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia. The deal would permit extensive civilian nuclear activities, including uranium enrichment on Saudi territory. Critics have raised concerns over nuclear proliferation risks and potential destabilization of regional security. The US administration contends the agreement is necessary to limit growing Russian and Chinese influence in the Middle East. The deal is expected to face close scrutiny from lawmakers, who may challenge its impact on existing non-proliferation safeguards.

Sacked CJP representative Vijeta Dahiya on how Abhijeet Dipke fired him

Firouzja Claims Chennai Grand Masters Title; World Champion Gukesh Finishes Last

French Grandmaster Alireza Firouzja won the Chennai Grand Masters chess tournament after a strong overall performance. He secured the title by holding Indian GM Arjun Erigaisi to a draw in the final round. Firouzja finished with 4.5 points, backed by two wins and five draws throughout the event. Russian GM Andreikin was the only other player to remain unbeaten across the tournament. World champion D Gukesh had a difficult outing, ending the competition in last place.

Cloggs Cave reveals 25,000-year-old GunaiKurnai grass-burning rituals

Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of ancient ritual grass-burning practices at Cloggs Cave in Australia, dating back approximately 25,000 years. The discoveries include microscopic plant remains, layers of ash, and a notable standing stone left behind by the GunaiKurnai people. These findings suggest that ceremonial burning of grass was a deeply embedded spiritual tradition sustained across tens of thousands of years. The evidence points to a profound and enduring connection between the GunaiKurnai communities and their natural environment.

Vijay Backs Rahul Gandhi, Renews TVK Demand to Scrap NEET Exam

Tamil Nadu politician Vijay, founder of TVK, has taken a dual stance on recent protests, expressing solidarity with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. He condemned the police action taken against Gandhi, calling it unacceptable. Simultaneously, Vijay used the occasion to reiterate his party's longstanding demand for the abolition of the NEET examination. The call to scrap NEET has been a recurring position of the TVK party, which advocates for state-level control over medical entrance admissions.

Oneida Woman Polly Cooper Walked 200 Miles to Save Washington's Starving Army

Polly Cooper, a Native American woman from the Oneida Nation, trekked over 200 miles through snow to deliver food to the struggling Continental Army during a brutal winter. She brought corn supplies and personally taught soldiers how to prepare and cook it, helping prevent mass starvation in the camp. Despite the scale of her contribution, Cooper declined any monetary compensation for her efforts. As a gesture of gratitude, she was given only a shawl and bonnet by the soldiers. Her story survived largely through oral tradition before being formally recognized and documented by historians.

Shreyas Iyer backs Sooryavanshi to bounce back ahead of Zimbabwe series

India captain Shreyas Iyer has expressed strong confidence in young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of the upcoming Zimbabwe series. Sooryavanshi had a difficult run during India's recent tour of England, but Iyer believes the teenager has taken lessons from that experience. The captain stated that Sooryavanshi must have identified and addressed his shortcomings from the England tour. The Indian team, looking to regroup after a challenging stretch, is aiming to play with greater freedom in Zimbabwe. Sooryavanshi himself is reportedly feeling supported by the team management and returns to Harare in a confident frame of mind.

Ford and Aramark probe kiosk glitches after workers fired for alleged snack theft

Ford and Aramark are conducting a joint review of self-service kiosks installed at Ford factory locations. The investigation was triggered after several employees were dismissed for allegedly stealing snacks from the kiosks. Affected workers have disputed the accusations, claiming that software glitches and payment processing failures were responsible for the irregularities. Following internal investigations, some of the terminated employees have since been reinstated. Both companies have acknowledged functionality issues with the kiosks in a limited number of cases.

Amazon burn area hits record low in 2025 after decades of high fire activity

Amazon forest fires fell to their lowest level since records began in 1985, marking a historic milestone in 2025. The decline followed a severe drought in 2024 and was aided by shifting weather patterns alongside reduced deforestation rates. Increased community awareness after the previous year's widespread destruction also played a role in the turnaround. Brazil's President Lula made forest protection a policy priority, contributing to the drop in deforestation. Despite the progress, experts warn that a potential super El Niño event could reverse gains and heighten fire risks in the future.

Jaffer rates KL Rahul on par with Kohli but cites mentality as key difference

Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has stated that KL Rahul is technically as talented as Virat Kohli across all formats of the game. Jaffer praised Rahul's composure and skill but acknowledged that the batter has failed to fully live up to his potential. According to Jaffer, the critical factor separating the two players is Kohli's exceptional mindset and consistency. This elite mental strength has been central to Kohli's record-breaking achievements in international cricket.

Three New Stomach Bacteria Species Discovered in Pygmy Sperm Whales

Scientists have identified three previously unknown Helicobacter bacteria strains in the stomachs of pygmy sperm whales. The discovery was made by examining stranded whale specimens collected along Florida's coast over more than two decades. Pygmy sperm whales are considered elusive marine mammals, making such findings particularly significant. The research adds to the broader understanding of marine microbiology and the health of these rare cetaceans.

Narrow escape for Deputy Chief Minister, MP as flash floods, landslides continue in J&K

Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Fold 8, Flip 8, and New Smartwatches at Major Launch

Samsung has announced a new lineup of devices including three foldable smartphones and two smartwatches. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and its Ultra variant come equipped with improved displays and upgraded processors. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 features an AI-powered cover screen designed to enhance everyday usability. The two new smartwatches focus on advanced health monitoring and durable builds suited for active users. All announced devices are currently open for pre-order ahead of their upcoming retail availability.