India

US Air Force Tests AI Drones Designed to Fly Alongside Manned Fighter Jets

The US Air Force is incorporating Collaborative Combat Aircraft into its operations to strengthen aerial combat capabilities. Two prototype drones — General Atomics' YFQ-42A and Anduril's YFQ-44A — are currently in the testing phase. The initiative focuses on Manned-Unmanned Teaming, enabling human pilots to command autonomous aircraft during missions. The program is designed to improve situational awareness while reducing the exposure of crewed aircraft in high-risk combat zones.

Germany Seeks US Approval to Locally Produce Patriot PAC-3 Missiles

Germany has formally requested permission from the United States to manufacture Patriot PAC-3 air-defence interceptors on its own soil. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is pushing for expanded local production of US-designed weapons to address supply chain bottlenecks. The move comes amid growing shortages of these critical missiles across American and NATO forces stationed in Europe. Boosting domestic production capacity is seen as a way to meet rising demand more efficiently and reliably.

Supreme Court Rejects Plea to Make Hindi Its Official Language

The Supreme Court of India has dismissed a petition that sought to make Hindi the official language of the court. The Chief Justice of India (CJI) rejected the plea, stating that such reforms cannot be brought about through judicial orders. The court indicated that language policy changes of this nature fall outside the scope of judicial intervention. The matter would require legislative or executive action rather than a court directive.

Duke Study Finds Long-Dismissed Ovarian Structure May Be Key to Fertility

A new study from Duke University has shed light on the rete ovarii, a structure in the female reproductive system that has been largely overlooked since its discovery in 1870. Researchers found that the structure may play a significant role in hormone activity and egg development, suggesting it is far from functionless. The findings challenge decades of assumptions in reproductive medicine about which anatomical structures matter for fertility. The study has also sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many expressing frustration over the historical neglect of female anatomy in medical research. Experts and the public alike are now calling for greater investment in studying women's reproductive health.

India loses 6.2 million LPG customers amid Gulf supply disruption from Iran war

India has seen a sharp drop of 6.2 million LPG customers over recent months, linked to supply disruptions in the Gulf region. The conflict involving Iran has significantly affected LPG availability from the area. Prior to the war, the Gulf accounted for approximately 90% of India's total LPG imports. The reduced supply has strained domestic availability, contributing to the customer decline.

Satwik-Chirag crash out in Asian Games men's doubles first round

Indian badminton pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty suffered a shock first-round exit at the Asian Games. The fourth-seeded duo, who are defending champions, were beaten by their Thai opponents in a closely contested match. They had started strongly, winning the opening game 21-12, but lost momentum in the second game, going down 21-19. The defeat marks a major upset for India's badminton campaign at the tournament.

Air India Co-Pilot Suspended After Testing Drunk Before Zurich-Delhi Flight

An Air India first officer has been suspended after being found allegedly drunk shortly before a Zurich-to-Delhi flight was due to depart. Authorities suspected the co-pilot had consumed alcohol and removed him from the aircraft before takeoff. The incident was identified during pre-flight checks, preventing him from operating the flight. Air India took swift action by grounding the pilot pending further investigation.

SIR row: Cong workers protest against CEC; cops use water cannons in Patna, Chandigarh

Why Overly Permissive Parenting Can Leave Kids Ill-Equipped for Adulthood

Child development experts highlight that balancing warmth with firm boundaries is essential to raising well-rounded children. Without consistent limits, children may struggle to develop emotional regulation and resilience. The authoritative parenting style, which combines nurturing responsiveness with clear expectations, is identified as an effective approach. This method also involves children in establishing rules, helping them better understand and accept boundaries. Such involvement prepares them to navigate setbacks and adapt to real-world challenges as they grow.

Consumer Commission Awards Rs 20,000 After IRCTC Fails to Provide Promised Western Toilet

A 73-year-old traveller was denied a Western-style toilet at Chittorgarh railway station despite it being listed on the IRCTC booking portal. The senior citizen initially received only a minimal refund and compensation from IRCTC, which he contested as inadequate given the hardship he faced. The Chandigarh State Consumer Commission ruled in his favour, finding the original payout insufficient. The commission significantly raised the compensation to Rs 20,000 and directed IRCTC and Indian Railways to refund the original amount along with interest.

Saudi Arabia Pivots Toward China After Years of Hard-Learned Lessons

Saudi Arabia is increasingly shifting its strategic alignment toward China, a move analysts say makes practical sense for the kingdom at this stage. The pivot comes after years of difficult experiences that have reshaped Riyadh's foreign policy calculations. China offers economic and diplomatic partnerships that align with Saudi Arabia's current interests and long-term Vision 2030 goals. However, this growing closeness with Beijing raises questions about how Saudi Arabia's longstanding Western ally, the United States, will respond. The evolving relationship signals a broader realignment in Middle Eastern geopolitics as Gulf states diversify their global partnerships.

Make in India Turns 12: Gains in Output and Exports, But Jobs and GDP Goals Lag

India's Make in India initiative has completed 12 years since its launch, recording notable progress in manufacturing output and export growth. However, the programme has fallen short of its key targets related to job creation and raising manufacturing's share of GDP. Industry stakeholders have highlighted the persistent difficulty that micro, small, and medium enterprises face in accessing affordable finance. Easier credit for MSMEs has emerged as a central demand from the business community to sustain and deepen industrial growth. The anniversary has prompted a broader review of what the initiative has achieved and where significant work remains.

Jhansi-Agra Cantt Express train extended up to Mathura, check new stops and timings

Dr Monish Kanna R tops NEET PG 2026 with 641/720, credits discipline and revision

Dr Monish Kanna R has claimed the All India Rank 1 in NEET PG 2026, scoring 641 out of 720 marks. His preparation involved attempting over 10,000 MCQs across hundreds of leaderboards, topping 85 of them. He revised his study material four to five times, emphasising consistent error analysis as a core strategy. After experiencing burnout following a previous setback, he regrouped with improved study habits, adequate rest, and support from his family. His success has been widely attributed to disciplined practice and methodical revision rather than intensive cramming.

Jurel reveals Fernando's nonstop abuse triggered Jaiswal's on-field clash in Colombo

A heated confrontation broke out between India's Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka's Asitha Fernando during the second Test match in Colombo. Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel revealed that Fernando subjected Jaiswal to persistent verbal provocations following a dismissal. While Jaiswal was willing to engage in competitive sledging, he drew the line at personal insults. The situation escalated rapidly, prompting other players to intervene and separate the two cricketers.

SIR row: Plea in SC seeks prosecution of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, SIT inquiry

China's First Lady Peng Liyuan Spotlighted as Symbol of Fashion Diplomacy

Chinese Ambassador to Washington Xie Feng drew attention to First Lady Peng Liyuan's diplomatic influence by sharing a video of her on social media platform X. The post showed Peng applauding a performance, underscoring her visible public role on the international stage. Peng Liyuan, a celebrated folk singer in China, has long been recognised for using fashion and cultural presence as tools of soft diplomacy. Her appearances at high-profile events are seen as a deliberate extension of China's broader diplomatic outreach strategy.

Joshna Chinappa wins historic 6th Asian Games medal as three Indians reach squash semis

India claimed three squash medals at the 2026 Asian Games, with standout performances across multiple events. Joshna Chinappa made history by winning her sixth Asian Games medal, cementing her legacy in Indian squash. She and Velavan Senthilkumar advanced to the mixed doubles semifinals after a commanding victory. Anahat Singh and Abhay Singh also booked their places in the women's and men's singles semifinals respectively. All three squash contenders are now targeting gold medals and potential Olympic qualification berths.

FTC Expands Amazon Prime Refund Eligibility; Payouts Up to $200 by April 2027

The Federal Trade Commission has widened the pool of Amazon Prime customers eligible for refunds over deceptive enrollment and cancellation practices. Qualifying customers who enrolled in or tried to cancel Prime during certain periods will receive refunds automatically, with no action required on their part. Amazon will issue payments of up to $200, a notable increase from previously set limits. Refunds will be distributed via checks or electronic transfers, with all payments expected to be completed by April 2027.

Bhuj-Barauni Amrit Bharat train approved: Check route, stops, timings and frequency