India

YouTube Rolls Out New AI Tools Aimed at Supporting Content Creators

YouTube has introduced a new set of artificial intelligence tools designed to assist creators on its platform. The company has emphasized that these tools are intended to enhance creator capabilities rather than substitute human creativity. Several of the newly launched features are specifically tailored for YouTube Shorts, the platform's short-form video format. This move reflects YouTube's ongoing, multi-year effort to integrate AI more deeply into its creator ecosystem.

Four Arrested in Bihar After Video Shows Girl Being Harassed in Public

Four men were arrested in Samastipur, Bihar, after a video emerged showing them allegedly harassing a girl on Dam Bypass Road. The incident occurred while the girl and a male companion had stopped to take photographs at the location. This follows a similar recent case in Jamui, where a Class X girl was harassed by a group of youths in a recorded incident. In the Jamui case, police detained three minors and used video footage to identify additional suspects. The back-to-back incidents have raised concerns about public safety for women in Bihar.

Simone Biles’ temporary Texas home lists for $1.2 million after mansion build

Meta Introduces Parental Controls on Threads in India Amid Safety Push

Meta has added parental control features to its Threads platform in India, responding to growing child safety concerns. The move comes after several rounds of discussions between the Indian government and Meta. These talks covered a range of issues including content moderation, human review processes, and recommendation systems. Concerns around deepfakes and safe-harbour protections were also part of the ongoing dialogue between the two parties.

Canada's Carney Calls US Annexation Risk Real, Pushes Diversification Strategy

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has described it as 'irresponsible not to prepare' for the risk of a US invasion or annexation attempt. In a wide-ranging interview, Carney outlined multiple steps Canada is taking to reduce its economic and strategic dependence on the United States. These measures are part of a broader diversification strategy aimed at strengthening Canada's independent standing. Carney's remarks reflect growing tensions between Ottawa and Washington amid repeated rhetoric from US officials about Canada becoming the 51st state.

US and China extend trade truce by two months amid broader deal talks

The United States and China have agreed to extend their existing trade agreement through January 10. The decision came after talks between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng. The extension is intended to give both sides time to assess China's adherence to its trade commitments. The two nations are also using this period to explore a wider trade deal. Upcoming meetings are expected to cover additional topics such as artificial intelligence and Taiwan relations.

Meta Launches Audio-Only AI Glasses as Camera Wearables Face Privacy Backlash

Meta has introduced a new pair of AI-powered glasses that feature no camera, relying solely on audio functionality. The launch comes at a time when camera-equipped smart glasses are facing intense global scrutiny over potential privacy violations. Critics have raised concerns about wearable devices with discreet cameras being misused for covert surveillance, with some labeling such products as 'pervert' glasses. The audio-only design appears to be Meta's response to these mounting public and regulatory concerns around wearable camera technology.

Sam Konstas shrugs off Kohli clash, calls it part of cricket

Young Australian opener Sam Konstas made a striking Test debut in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scoring 60 runs against Jasprit Bumrah. His debut was also marked by a high-profile on-field confrontation with Virat Kohli that drew widespread attention. Konstas has since downplayed the incident, describing it as a normal part of competitive cricket with no hard feelings. Despite a subsequent dip in form, the youngster remains confident and is currently playing for Australia 'A' in Puducherry.

Anthropic's Claude AI Discovers Novel CRISPR-Like Enzyme System in Viruses

Anthropic's Claude AI has identified a previously unknown enzyme system called ART, found within bacteriophages and featuring a CRISPR-like repeat array. The discovery involved roughly 950 AI agents autonomously analysing DNA data over a 21-hour period. CEO Dario Amodei acknowledged that the system's exact function and biological significance remain unclear at this stage. He nonetheless described the finding as work worthy of a PhD-level researcher. CRISPR pioneer Feng Zhang has also weighed in, stating the discovery warrants further scientific investigation.

A 57-year-old man ran from Cape Town to Cairo in 301 days, surviving a kidnap attempt

Pakistan Strikes 10 Afghan Sites After Intercepting Alleged Taliban Drones

Pakistan launched strikes on 10 locations inside Afghanistan on Wednesday, following what it described as drone attacks originating from Afghan territory. Pakistani security forces said they intercepted eight basic drones allegedly launched by the Afghan Taliban before they could reach the northwestern city of Kohat and the border town of Torkham. The incidents mark a significant escalation in tensions between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban-led government. The strikes reflect Pakistan's growing concerns over cross-border militant activity along its porous northwestern frontier.

Passengers Escape Bus Fire in Greater Noida Early Thursday Morning

A bus registered in Bihar caught fire early Thursday morning in Greater Noida. The vehicle was reportedly travelling from Noida to Mahoba in Uttar Pradesh at the time of the incident. Most passengers were asleep when the fire broke out, making the situation especially dangerous. Survivors described the evacuation as disorderly and frantic as people rushed to get out.

'Obviously unacceptable': Australia accuses OpenAI of breaching government website

Vande Bharat train hits 180 kmph in high-speed trial, more tests ahead

Eight Suicide Attempts Reported Aboard USS Lincoln During Iran Deployment

At least eight suicide attempts were reported aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier during its deployment related to tensions with Iran, according to the Trump administration. The carrier has been at sea since November, and reports of worsening living conditions and declining mental health among crew members have drawn significant public attention in the United States. The troubling incidents have sparked criticism directed at President Donald Trump's military posture toward Iran. The revelations highlight growing concerns about the psychological toll of prolonged naval deployments on service members.

Pakistan strikes 10 sites in Afghanistan after drone attacks

Painkillers for every ache? CDSCO warns of kidney risks, antibiotic misuse

Oil prices today: Brent crude edges lower as Iran keeps door open to diplomacy

India Women Dominate Germany; Open Team's Gold Hopes Fade at Chess Olympiad

India's open chess team defeated England 2.5-1.5 at the Chess Olympiad, keeping their medal hopes alive. However, Uzbekistan's unbeaten run has made it significantly harder for India to contend for the gold in the open category. In contrast, the Indian women's team delivered a commanding 3.5-0.5 victory over Germany, boosting their title prospects. Savitha Shri was a standout performer, registering her sixth consecutive win in the tournament. The women's team remains a strong contender for the top prize as the competition progresses.

Employer invests ₹25,000 each in KVP scheme for driver and maid's retirement

A man named Naresh took financial initiative after realising his domestic staff — a driver and a maid — had no retirement benefits. He invested ₹25,000 each in Kisan Vikas Patra, a government savings scheme, totalling ₹50,000. Under current terms, the investment is expected to double in approximately 9 years and 7 months. Naresh hopes his action will encourage greater awareness of long-term financial planning for household workers. He is also considering making additional contributions in the future.