India

McDonald's AI drive-thru system Archy hits 90% accuracy, no job cuts planned

McDonald's has introduced an AI-powered drive-thru ordering system called Archy, which achieves a 90% order accuracy rate. The fast-food giant plans to invest $8.5 billion over the next decade to modernize its global restaurant operations. Despite the technological upgrade, the company's CFO has stated that the rollout will not result in staff reductions. McDonald's also intends to strengthen employee training and improve overall customer service alongside these tech advancements. The initiative comes as the chain looks to offer greater value to customers facing increasing cost-of-living pressures.

Adani Group Plans Rs 1 Lakh Crore Investment in West Bengal by 2035

Gautam Adani announced that the Adani Group intends to invest over Rs 1 lakh crore in West Bengal by the year 2035. The announcement was made at a foundation stone-laying ceremony held in New Town. The planned investment will span across multiple sectors in the state. This marks a significant commitment by the conglomerate to expand its presence in West Bengal.

Kristin Cavallari turns 130-acre Tennessee estate into basketball court, studio

California skincare firm Bee & Co. accused of pressuring vulnerable customers into costly buys

Skincare retailer Bee & Co. is facing serious allegations of coercing vulnerable customers, including elderly people and individuals with disabilities, into making expensive purchases. Affected shoppers reported feeling pressured during transactions, with some spending thousands of dollars. US Representative Brad Sherman has stepped in, planning to raise the matter with California Attorney General Rob Bonta. The case highlights growing concerns about predatory retail practices targeting at-risk consumers in California.

Why Adults Frantically Clean Before Parents Visit, Explained by Psychology

Many adults feel a strong urge to deep-clean their homes ahead of parental visits, a behavior rooted in psychological principles. This tendency is linked to impression management, where people use their environment to shape how others perceive them. Standards instilled during childhood by parents continue to influence adult behavior, triggering anxiety about meeting those benchmarks. Ultimately, the cleaning ritual serves as a way for adults to signal their independence and competence to family members.

Two Killed, Two Critical as Car Catches Fire After Pole Collision in Assam

A tragic road accident in Assam claimed two lives and left two others in critical condition. The victims were travelling in a Kia Carens from Arunachal Pradesh toward Guwahati when the incident occurred. The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to collide with a pole. The impact triggered a fire that engulfed the car, resulting in the fatalities.

Heavy rain, storms in Andhra and Odisha, trigger warning, sea bathing banned

Railway Board approves 2 new trains, 9 get new stops – Check routes

Haryana Gangster Serving Life Sentence Granted Parole to Wed Cambodian Partner

Mainpal Dhilla, a gangster serving a life sentence at a jail in Jhajjar, Haryana, has been granted parole to marry his Cambodian partner. Dhilla was extradited from Cambodia to India in 2025 and has since been imprisoned. The parole was approved despite him being a convicted criminal serving one of the most severe sentences under Indian law. The case has drawn attention given the unusual circumstances surrounding the parole request and approval.

VIP Chief Mukesh Sahani Threatens CEC Gyanesh Kumar Over SIR Controversy

Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahani has made a controversial threat targeting Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid a dispute over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. Sahani accused the Election Commission of functioning under BJP influence, alleging bias in its decision-making. He warned that those responsible could face imprisonment following the 2029 elections, singling out Gyanesh Kumar by name. The Election Commission responded by defending its processes, stating that internal differences of opinion are normal and that legal compliance has been upheld throughout.

Couple Seeks Bail in Granite Baron R Veeramani Child Sex Abuse Case

A couple arrested in connection with the child sexual abuse case involving granite businessman R Veeramani has filed for bail. The accused have contended that significant doubts exist regarding the allegations made against them. They further argued that there is no risk of them interfering with or tampering with evidence in the case. The bail plea is currently under consideration by the court.

DU Student Files FIR After Men Allegedly Try to Drag Her Into SUV in Delhi

A Delhi University student filed a complaint with Delhi Police after being allegedly harassed by a group of men near Hakikat Park at 9:30 PM. The incident involved an attempt to pull her into an SUV, according to the complaint. Police traced the vehicle to its owner and identified the driver as Naman, who was accompanied by two to three others at the time. An FIR has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Kaif predicts Sooryavanshi to displace Tilak or Dube from India T20I squad

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has predicted that teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could create a selection headache for Team India within six months. Kaif believes Sooryavanshi's strong performances in T20Is and the IPL make him a strong contender for a permanent spot in the first-choice lineup. According to Kaif, either Tilak Varma or Shivam Dube may have to make way if Sooryavanshi continues his current form. The prediction highlights growing competition for middle-order batting slots in India's T20I setup.

Salma Hayek on finding success later in life and embracing your own timeline

In a 2011 discussion, actress Salma Hayek reflected on her journey from Mexico to Hollywood and the realities of achieving success later in life. She emphasized the value of gradual progress, particularly in an era where social media comparisons can distort expectations. Hayek encouraged creatives not to be discouraged by delayed opportunities, stressing that late breakthroughs are no less meaningful than early ones. Her message urged individuals to honour their own unique timelines for both personal and professional growth.

Delhi Student Harassed, Attempted Abduction by Men in Car: Suspect Identified

A Delhi student was followed, verbally abused, and nearly dragged into a car by men traveling in a safari vehicle. Authorities launched an investigation into the incident after the student reported the assault. Police traced the car using its registration number DL11CF4447. The vehicle was linked to a suspect identified as Naman Anil Kumar. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of women in the capital.

Bezos Earth Fund commits $25M to Pacific Ocean conservation across five nations

The Bezos Earth Fund has announced an allocation of over $25 million to support ocean conservation efforts across five Pacific countries. The funding will be directed toward improving ocean management practices, establishing marine protected areas, and strengthening monitoring systems. A key goal of the initiative is to protect a substantial share of Pacific ocean territory while ensuring local communities and leaders play a central role. The programme will also extend its reach to international waters through proposed marine protected areas.

Rubio’s ‘regional partners’ pitch to India after Trump steps up sanctions

Why Kids Stay Silent About Being Left Out by Friends

Children often experience feelings of social exclusion but frequently choose not to share these struggles with their parents. A key reason for this silence is the fear of being judged or having parents intervene in ways they consider unhelpful. Experts suggest that parents who build an empathetic and non-judgmental home environment are more likely to encourage open conversations. Identifying early signs of isolation in children is considered essential for safeguarding their mental well-being. Supporting kids through friendship challenges requires parents to foster trust and create safe spaces for dialogue.

Amazon Proposes $309.5M Settlement Over Return and Refund Policy Disputes

Amazon has agreed to a proposed $309.5 million settlement related to its return and refund policies. The case centers on customers who faced refund issues or were incorrectly charged by the company. Eligible claimants are divided into two subclasses, each with a distinct payment process. A Final Approval Hearing has been scheduled for March 2027, at which a court will determine whether to formally approve the settlement.

China's Military Support for Iran Complicates US-China Diplomatic Relations

China has been increasing its military component deliveries to Iran, raising doubts about its self-proclaimed role as a peace mediator. Recent findings reveal a significant surge in cargo flights by Chinese airlines dedicated to supporting Iranian defense needs. This growing military partnership between China and Iran has emerged amid ongoing US-China diplomatic engagements. The development adds considerable complexity to relations between Washington and Beijing, particularly as tensions in the region continue to escalate.