Arun has been associated with India International Times since 2018 and he has been a key reporter in covering science and space related stories. He can be reached at arunKnn@indiainternationaltimes.com.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0 to provide targeted financial assistance to Indian airlines grappling with mounting operational and liquidity pressures arising from the ongoing West Asia crisis.
The move comes amid a steep rise in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices, airspace restrictions and reduced international flight operations, factors that have adversely impacted aircraft utilisation and strained airline finances.
Under the scheme, the government has earmarked ₹5,000 crore specifically for the aviation sector. The initiative will provide 100 per cent credit guarantee coverage for MSMEs and 90 per cent coverage for non-MSMEs and airlines through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited to Member Lending Institutions against defaults on additional credit facilities extended to eligible borrowers.
The scheme allows airlines to avail loans of up to ₹1,000 crore per borrower, with an additional ₹500 crore permitted subject to matching equity infusion by the borrower. The loans will carry a repayment tenure of up to seven years, including a two-year moratorium, aimed at easing immediate liquidity stress.
The government said the latest version of ECLGS is intended to strengthen financial resilience among MSMEs and airlines during a challenging global environment. It also allows conversion of up to 50 per cent of interest liabilities into a Funded Interest Term Loan (FITL), a measure expected to improve cash flow management and reduce short-term repayment burdens.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said India’s aviation sector had remained resilient despite global disruptions due to timely government intervention.
“Under the decisive leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, India’s aviation growth story today stands out globally as a success story built on the foundation of reforms, resilience and resurgence,” he said.
He added that Indian airlines had benefited from measures such as capping ATF prices during global fuel spikes and reductions in airport landing and parking charges.
“By approving the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0, airlines will be enabled to navigate short-term liquidity challenges and maintain seamless operations amid global disruptions. It will provide strong financial backing to safeguard jobs, sustain connectivity and ensure resilience across the aviation ecosystem, while also supporting MSMEs,” the minister said.
The scheme will provide additional credit support of up to 20 per cent of peak working capital utilised during the fourth quarter of FY26, capped at ₹100 crore for eligible sectors. For airlines, the support can extend up to 100 per cent, subject to a ceiling of ₹1,500 crore per borrower and fulfilment of prescribed conditions.
According to the government, the guarantee coverage will remain valid for the entire tenure of the loan. The scheme will apply to all loans sanctioned from the date of issuance of guidelines by the NCGTC until March 31, 2027.
The Centre said the initiative is expected to cushion airlines against the impact of rising fuel prices, currency volatility and operational disruptions while improving lender confidence and ensuring steady credit flow to the aviation sector. The measure is also aimed at protecting jobs, preserving sectoral capacity and preventing higher operational costs from being passed on to passengers.
Election Commission of India’s (ECI) robust IT platform ECINET played a central role in streamlining election processes including real-time monitoring, enabling faster reporting, and enhancing transparency during the General Elections to Legislative Assemblies and Bye-elections 2026.
Since its official launch in January 2026, ECINET app has witnessed a significant surge in usage and has over 10 crore downloads till date. The beta version of ECINET was used in Bihar elections in November 2025.
On poll-days, i.e., April 9, 23 and 29, ECINET recorded over 98.3 crore hits and on the counting day i.e. May 4, 2026, ECINET recorded an average of 3 crore hits per minute.
ECINET cybersecurity protocols resulted in effectively countering over 68 lakh malicious hits on counting day originating from both within India and overseas, targeting key election platforms, including the results portal.
In a significant step towards enhancing security at the Counting Centres, a new QR code–based Photo Identity Card system was used for the first time on counting day across all States/UTs in these elections through ECINET.
On counting day, over 3.2 lakh QR codes were generated to ensure that only authorised personnel could access counting venues, thereby preventing any unauthorized entry in the Counting Centers.
The Government of India, through a notification issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting dated May 6, 2026, has appointed Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati as the Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). He shall hold office for a period of three years from the date of joining.
Consequent upon the elevation of Shri Prasoon Joshi as Chairman of Prasar Bharati, he has stepped down from the position of Chairperson, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), leading to the present appointment.
Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati brings with him extensive experience in media, broadcasting, and public communication. His appointment is expected to further strengthen the functioning of the CBFC.
The 2nd edition of WAVES Doc Bazaar will return from June 16 to 18, 2026, alongside the 19th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF), at the NFDC Complex, Mumbai.
WAVES Doc Bazaar is a premier one-stop platform designed to nurture and accelerate the journey of documentary, animation and short filmmakers by creating opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, market access and global visibility. Returning with its second edition, the platform aims to bring together established professionals and emerging talent from across the audiovisual industry. Further, the Bazaar will serve as a vibrant hub for creators, producers, distributors, broadcasters, funders and technology partners, supporting various stages of production and distribution while empowering exceptional storytelling and helping filmmakers reach global audiences. Participants will gain valuable insights into current industry trends, market demands, distribution strategies and audience preferences through direct engagement with experts and experienced practitioners.
Among the key segments of WAVES Doc Bazaar is the Viewing Room (VR), where documentary, short and animation films that are recently completed or in post-production will be showcased to a curated audience of registered delegates. Designed as a secure platform accessible only to selected buyers, programmers, distributors and investors, it offers filmmakers opportunities to secure distribution deals, connect with co-producers and world sales agents, explore film festival prospects, and access finishing funds. Through a specially designed system, buyers can browse films based on language, duration, stage of completion and other details, while selected titles will also be featured in the Viewing Room catalogue to be shared with all registered delegates and made available online ahead of the event.
The Work-In-Progress Lab (WIP) is specially designed for documentary and animation films in the rough-cut stage. Conducted in a closed-door setting, the lab enables selected participants to receive valuable feedback, guidance and mentorship from experienced filmmakers, editors and international mentors, helping them refine their projects for wider audiences.
Immersive Market to Premiere at WAVES Doc Bazaar with Focus on VR, AR and XR
For the first time, WAVES Doc Bazaar will also introduce the Immersive Market, a dedicated platform for immersive content creators, producers and technology partners. Focused on VR, AR, XR and interactive experiences, the market will provide a space to showcase innovative projects, explore new storytelling formats and foster meaningful collaborations.
With its dynamic programming and industry-focused initiatives, WAVES Doc Bazaar stands poised to strengthen the ecosystem for documentaries, animation and short films, while opening new pathways for creative excellence and international outreach.
Entries Open for Viewing Room and WIP Lab at WAVES Doc Bazaar 2026
Entries are now open for the Viewing Room and Work-in-Progress (WIP) Lab at WAVES Doc Bazaar 2026, a global platform that connects documentary and animation filmmakers with leading industry professionals. Interested participants may submit their applications until May 15, 2026, by 11:59 PM IST.
PIB File Photos of the inaugural edition of Doc Film Bazaar held in 2024.
Eligibility
The program is open to documentary and animation films from across the globe. Short, mid-length, and feature-length films are eligible to be showcased in the WAVES Doc Bazaar 2026. Films must be completed or in post-production, with most of the shooting already finished. Projects in development or pre-production are not eligible. Filmmakers with projects seeking festivals, sales, distribution, or finishing funds are especially encouraged to apply. Films with limited or no international exposure are welcome.
Submission Process
In the first stage, applicants must submit a password protected screener link of the full film or a rough cut for review. If selected, filmmakers must submit at least 10 minutes of footage for the Viewing Room. Submitting the full film is strongly encouraged. Final files will be securely uploaded and made accessible only to authorized participants.
Filmmakers are invited to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their work on an international stage and connect with key decision-makers in the documentary and animation industry.
Interested candidates can submit their applications by clicking on the link below.
Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports Mansukh Mandaviya will launch a nationwide Annual Health Check-Up Initiative for workers aged 40 years and above on May 7, 2026, under the provisions of the new Labour Codes. The programme will be inaugurated at the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation Medical College and Hospital in Basaidarapur, New Delhi.
The launch will also be marked simultaneously at 11 other ESIC hospitals across the country in the presence of Labour Ministers, Members of Parliament, MLAs and other state dignitaries.
The initiative has been introduced in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Shramev Jayate” vision, which focuses on strengthening labour welfare, dignity of work and social security for workers. It forms part of the broader labour reforms introduced through the four New Labour Codes that merged 29 central labour laws into four consolidated codes aimed at easing compliance, encouraging formal employment and widening social security coverage.
मोदी सरकार के ऐतिहासिक 4 Labour Codes का सीधा लाभ!
7 मई से देशभर के सभी ESIC अस्पतालों में 40+ आयु वर्ग के सभी श्रमिकों के लिए Free Annual Health Check Up की शुरुआत… pic.twitter.com/cUymuVEg0P
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) May 5, 2026
Under the Code on Social Security, 2020, social security benefits have been expanded to include unorganised, gig and platform workers, alongside the creation of a Social Security Fund and broader coverage under the ESI framework.
As part of the new initiative, annual health check-ups will become mandatory for workers aged 40 years and above. Beneficiaries covered under the ESI Scheme will receive these services through ESIC’s nationwide hospital network, with emphasis on preventive healthcare, early detection of diseases and regular health monitoring.
The framework also mandates medical examinations for workers employed in hazardous operations involving chemicals, toxic materials or heavy machinery, regardless of age. Authorities will additionally maintain systematic health records and conduct periodic monitoring to support long-term workforce well-being.
The government said the initiative represents a major step towards strengthening occupational healthcare systems, improving access to preventive medical services for workers and supporting the broader goal of building a “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
A team of international astrophysicists have uncovered new insights into the mystery behind the differences in the appearances of extragalactic jets emerging from the environments of supermassive blackholes. They showed that the plasma composition can affect the appearances of these jets. This may help to unravel the mystery of matter content of relativistic jets.
At the centers of many distant galaxies reside supermassive black holes with masses millions to billions of times that of our Sun. These black holes don’t just eat everything, but can also act like powerful engines, launching narrow beams of plasma and energy known as “jets” that shoot into space at nearly the speed of light. These extragalactic jets can travel for thousands of light-years and emit radiation ranging from low-energy radio waves to high-energy gamma rays.
For a long time, astronomers have been wondering about a noticeable difference in radio images of extragalactic jets, first identified by Fanaroff & Riley in 1974. They broadly classified radio jets into two main categories: FR I & FR II. The FR I jets are “core-brightened,” meaning they are brightest near the core and gradually fade into diffuse structures as they move outward. The FR II jets, on the other hand, are “edge-brightened,” meaning they are fainter near the core but stay tightly focused over long distances until they hit the surrounding gas, creating giant “hot spots” at their tips.
Scientists have for long continued to debate whether this difference is due to the black hole itself, the environment around it, or the intrinsic properties of the jet, such as its speed, temperature, and magnetic strength, etc.
A new research published in The Astrophysical Journal by Mr. Priyesh Kumar Tripathi, Dr. Indranil Chattopadhyay, and Mr. Sanjit Debnath from Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Dr. Raj Kishore Joshi from the Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center, Poland, Dr. Ritaban Chatterjee from Presidency University, Kolkata, and Dr. M. Saleem Khan from MJPRU Barelly, used advanced computer simulations to reveal that the secret to these differences may be due to the jet’s composition and the environment it travels through. The research team performed large 3D magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations of these jets at kiloparsec scales using a numerical simulation code developed by the Numerical and Theoretical Astrophysics Group at ARIES. Notably, this code incorporates a relativistic equation of state, which can accurately handle a very large range of temperatures encountered at different regions of the jet.
The team discovered that a phenomenon called the “kink instability” is a major player in shaping these powerful, narrow jets, causing wiggles (small bend). In space, if this wiggle grows faster than the jet can flow forward, the jet beam disrupts, spreading its energy into a faint, diffuse cloud – the classic look of an FR I jet. Astrophysical jets aren’t made of ordinary matter. Instead, they are composed of plasma, a soup of charged particles including electrons, positrons (the antimatter twin of electrons), and sometimes heavier particles like protons. One of the study’s most significant findings is that the composition of jet plasma can determine its fate.
Jets can be made of mostly electrons and protons (Hadronic plasma), a mixture that includes positrons (the antimatter twin of the electron– Leptonic/Mixed plasma).
Fig: 3D Volume rendering of the jet tracer for electron-proton and mixed plasma jet
The simulations showed that jets rich in positrons (lepton-rich) are relatively hotter, causing them to expand and slow down. They often can’t stay straight and get twisted by the kink instability. As a result, they form a diffuse, FR I–like structure, where the jet gradually fades instead of ending in a bright hotspot. In contrast, jets composed primarily of electrons and protons were more likely to transition between morphologies, thereby changing their identity. This suggests that what we see through our telescopes might just be a snapshot of a long, evolving cosmic process.
Dolphins have long fascinated scientists with their remarkable speed and fluid movement through water. Now, new research offers a clearer explanation of the physics behind their efficiency, shedding light on how these marine mammals generate powerful propulsion.
A study published in Physical Review Fluids by researchers at The University of Osaka identifies a crucial mechanism: the formation of large, energetic vortices driven by the dolphin’s tail motion. Using advanced numerical simulations, the team mapped how these swirling water structures influence propulsion under varying conditions.
As dolphins swim, they move their tails in a rhythmic up-and-down motion, pushing water backward. This action produces a turbulent wake filled with vortices of different sizes. Until now, the exact contribution of these complex flow patterns to forward motion remained difficult to isolate.
Lead author Yutaro Motoori explained that the team aimed to pinpoint which elements of this turbulence actually aid speed. By deploying supercomputer-based simulations, the researchers were able to break down the flow into components and identify the dominant forces at play.
The findings reveal that large-scale vortex rings generated by the oscillating tail are the primary drivers of thrust. These powerful structures push water backward, effectively propelling the dolphin forward. In contrast, smaller vortices—formed through what scientists call an energy cascade—play only a minor role in movement, despite being more numerous.
Senior researcher Susumu Goto noted that understanding this hierarchy of vortices is key. While turbulence appears chaotic, it follows an organized structure where the largest vortices do most of the work, and smaller ones are largely by-products.
The simulation-based approach allowed the team to observe fluid dynamics in extraordinary detail—something that is nearly impossible through direct experimentation. It also enabled them to test different swimming speeds, with results remaining consistent across scenarios.
Beyond explaining dolphin agility, the research holds practical promise. Insights into efficient propulsion could inform the design of faster, energy-efficient underwater robots and improve technologies that manage turbulent flows.
For now, the study offers a compelling reminder that nature’s most graceful swimmers are guided by deeply intricate physics beneath the surface.
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today has approved the proposal for introducing The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 in Parliament to amend The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956 for increasing the number of Judges of the Supreme Court of India by 4 from the present 33 to 37 (excluding the Chief Justice of India).
Point-wise details:
Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 provides for increasing the number of Judges of the Supreme Court by 04 i.e. from 33 to 37 (excluding the Chief Justice of India).
Major Impact:
The increase in the number of Judges will allow Supreme Court to function more efficiently and effectively ensuring speedy justice.
Expenditure:
The expenditure on salary of Judges and supporting staff and other facilities will be met from the Consolidated Fund of India.
Background:
Article 124 (1) in Constitution of India inter-alia provided “There shall be a Supreme Court of India consisting of a Chief Justice of India and, until Parliament by law prescribes a larger number, of not more than seven other Judges…”.
An act to increase the Judge strength of the Supreme Court of India was enacted in 1956 vide The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act 1956. Section 2 of the Act provided for the maximum number of Judges (excluding the Chief Justice of India) to be 10.
The Judge strength of the Supreme Court of India was increased to 13 by The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Act, 1960, and to 17 by The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Act, 1977. The working strength of the Supreme Court of India was, however, restricted to 15 Judges by the Cabinet, excluding the Chief Justice of India, till the end of 1979, when the restriction was withdrawn at the request of the Chief Justice of India.
The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Act, 1986 further augmented the Judge strength of the Supreme Court of India, excluding the Chief Justice of India, from 17 to 25. Subsequently, The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Act, 2008 further augmented the Judge strength of the Supreme Court of India from 25 to 30.
The Judge strength of the Supreme Court of India was last increased from 30 to 33 (excluding the Chief Justice of India) by further amending the original act vide The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Act, 2019.
Using MIRI (Mid Infrared Instrument) on board the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), a team of researchers led by former MPIA (Max Planck Institute for Astronomy, Heidelberg, Germany) PhD student Sebastian Zieba (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian, Cambridge, USA) and Laura Kreidberg, MPIA Director and study PI (principal investigator), analysed the surface composition of the rocky exoplanet LHS 3844 b. Beyond characterizing exoplanetary atmospheres, this kind of deciphering the geological properties of planets orbiting distant stars is the next step in unveiling their nature. The results of this investigation are now published in the journal Nature Astronomy.
A dark and airless rocky super-Earth
LHS 3844 b is a rocky planet 30% bigger than Earth and orbits a cool red dwarf star once within roughly 11 hours. Whirling just three stellar diameters above the host star’s surface, the planet is tidally locked to its orbit. This means one rotation takes just as long as one revolution. As a result, the same hemisphere of LHS 3844 b always faces its star, producing a constant dayside with an average temperature of about 1000 Kelvin (approximately 725 Degrees Celsius or 1340 Degrees Fahrenheit). The LHS 3844 system is only 48.5 light-years (14.9 parsecs) away from Earth.
“Thanks to the amazing sensitivity of JWST, we can detect light coming directly from the surface of this distant rocky planet. We see a dark, hot, barren rock, devoid of any atmosphere.” – Laura Kreidberg, MPIA.
With its dark surface, LHS 3844 b may resemble a larger version of the Moon or the planet Mercury. This conclusion is based on analysing the infrared radiation received from the planet’s hot dayside. However, when measuring this radiation, we cannot see the planet directly; instead, we register the repeating change in brightness we receive from the star and the orbiting planet combined.
MIRI divided a portion of the planet’s infrared emission, ranging from 5 to 12 micrometres, into smaller wavelength sections and measured the brightness per wavelength bin. This is what astronomers call a spectrum, a rainbow-like distribution of the light’s components. Another data point, obtained from observations with the Spitzer Space Telescope and published a few years ago, augmented the analysis.
Constraining geological activity
Similar to how exoplanetary atmosphere research has benefited from climate science, this emerging field of exoplanetary geology draws on Earth-based geologic knowledge. Zieba, Kreidberg, and their collaborators ran models and accessed template libraries of rocks and minerals known from Earth, the Moon, and Mars to see what infrared signatures they would produce under the conditions on LHS 3844 b. Comparing observation-based data with these computations confidently ruled out a composition comparable to Earth’s crust, typically silicate-rich minerals such as granite.
Although this result is not very surprising – even in the Solar System, Earth is the only planet with such a crust – it may reveal details on LHS 3844 b’s geological history. Earth-like silicate-rich crusts are thought to form through a prolonged refinement process that requires tectonic activity and typically relies on water as a lubricant. The rocky material repeatedly melts and solidifies as it is mixed with mantle material, leaving the lighter minerals on the surface.
“Since LHS 3844 b lacks such a silicate crust, one may conclude that Earth-like plate tectonics does not apply to this planet, or it is ineffective,” says Sebastian Zieba. “This planet likely only contains little water.”
What can we deduce about the exoplanet’s rocky surface?
Instead, the dark surface points to a composition reminiscent of terrestrial or lunar basalt, or of Earth’s mantle material. However, the astronomers attempted an even more detailed characterization.
A statistical analysis of how well this spectrum fits various mineral mixtures and configurations revealed that extended solid areas of basalt or magmatic rock best match the observations. They are rich in magnesium and iron and can include olivine. Crushed material, such as rocks or gravel, also fits fairly well, whereas grains or powders are inconsistent with the observations due to their brighter appearance, at least at first glance.
Without a protective atmosphere, planets are subjected to space weathering, predominantly driven by hard, energetic radiation from the host star and impacts from meteorites of various sizes.
“It turns out, these processes not only slowly dissolve hard rocks into regolith, a layer of fine grains or powder as found on the Moon,” explains Zieba. “They also darken the layer by adding iron and carbon, making the regolith’s properties more consistent with the observations.”
Geologically fresh or weathered? Two possible scenarios
This assessment left the astronomers with two scenarios for the planet’s surface that match the data equally well. One involves a surface dominated by dark, solid rock composed of basaltic or magmatic minerals. Compared to geological timescales, space weathering alters its properties quickly. Therefore, the astronomers conclude that, in this scenario, the surface should be relatively fresh, produced by recent geological activity, such as widespread volcanism.
The second scenario also proposes a dark surface, comparable to the Moon or Mercury. Still, it accounts for prolonged space weathering, which leads to extended regions covered by a darkened regolith layer, a fine powder also present on the Moon, as evidenced by the iconic photos of the astronauts’ footprints. This alternative relies on longer periods of geological inactivity, thereby requiring conditions opposite to the first scenario.
Attempts to resolve the ambiguity
These two alternatives differ in the degree of recent geological activity required. On Earth and other active objects in the Solar System, a typical phenomenon during such activity is outgassing. Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is a gas commonly connected to volcanism. If present on LHS 3844 b in reasonable amounts, MIRI should have detected it. Still, it found nothing. Therefore, a recent period of activity seems unlikely, which leads the astronomers to favour the second scenario. If correct, LHS 3844 b may truly look much like Mercury indeed.
In order to test their idea, Zieba, Kreidberg, and their colleagues are already pursuing a more direct approach. They have obtained additional JWST observations, which should enable them to discern surface conditions by exploiting small differences in how solid slabs and powders emit or reflect light. The distribution of emission angles depends on surface roughness, which affects the amount of radiation received at a given viewing angle. This concept is successfully applied to characterizing asteroids in the Solar System. “We are confident the same technique will allow us to clarify the nature of LHS 3844 b’s crust and, in the future, other rocky exoplanets,” concludes Kreidberg.
Scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder have discovered something that experienced ballroom dancers have long known: When dancers are in tune with each other, their brains may sync up, helping them move as one.
“When we dance, our brains are actually coupling,” said Thiago Roque, a graduate student in the Atlas Institute who led the study. “We are synchronizing our brains through our behavior.”
For the unique experiment, the researchers placed electroencephalogram (EEG) caps, or devices that measure electrical activity in the brain, on pairs doing the Argentine Tango—a sensuous dance where a leader and follower hold each other tight while moving together to music.
The team found that when those dancers were moving together in time, the activity in their brains also began to look startling similar. Scientists call that phenomenon “interbrain coupling” or “neural synchronization.” Researchers have seen similar patterns in other social activities, such as playing duets on the guitar, but never before in dancing.
Roque presented the group’s results in March at the 20th International Conference on Tangible, Embedded and Embodied Interaction in Chicago.
The researchers also took their findings one step further, designing a wearable device that monitors dancers’ brains and vibrates when they sync up.
The tool, which dancers wear on their wrists, is still in its early stages. But Roque envisions that similar technologies could one day help people learn a wide range of tasks that require humans to coordinate without speaking—such as playing music or team sports.
“When we are performing, we aren’t conscious of this sort of synchronization,” Roque said. “My goal was to bring unconscious things to the conscious level.”
Shall we dance?
Ruojia Sun knows all about that kind of unconscious communication. She took part in the new study both as a researcher and co-author and as one of the dancers.
Sun started tangoing when she moved to Boulder five years ago. Unlike many other types of dances, the tango is rarely choreographed — dancers usually improvise their steps in the moment. Pairs signal their next moves through subtle signs like a light compression of the hands or a shift in the upper body.
“I wound up loving so many aspects of it,” said Sun, who earned a master’s degree in creative technology and design at CU Boulder in 2024. “It’s a really interesting way to connect with another human being.”
To explore that connection, Roque brought five pairs of experienced tango dancers, including Sun and her long-time dance partner, into the lab. In addition to the EEG caps, the pairs wore movement sensors on their ankles so that the research team could track their steps.
Then, the dancers began to tango.
Riding the wave
When neurons fire in the brain, they create pulses of electrical activity, or “brainwaves.” EEG sensors measure those waves at different frequencies. Humans, for example, tend to produce fast pulses known as beta waves when they are concentrating or thinking hard. In contrast, they often generate slower, theta waves, when they’re relaxing.
Roque noted that how those waves behaved in the experiment depended on how in-step the dancers were with each other.
When a leader, for example, took a step forward and the follower took an immediate (within 200 milliseconds or less) step back, their brain waves tended to match up—rising and falling at about the same time. When their steps weren’t in sync, neither were their brains. Those trends were true for a range of brain waves, including beta and theta waves.
“When I started seeing the results—they were perfect,” Roque said. “The coupling was even better than I expected.”
Other co-authors of the new study included Grace Leslie, associate professor at ATLAS and the College of Music, and Ellen Do, professor at ATLAS and the Department of Computer Science.
From dancing to cycling
He and his colleagues wondered if a wearable device could enhance that experience of synchrony.
Sun tried out the team’s biofeedback device with her tango partner. The tool buzzed at all times but vibrated vigorously when the pair’s brain waves lined up. Sun noted that the buzzing was distracting when she and her partner weren’t in sync. But when they were, it just felt right.
“It almost enhanced that feeling of connection,” Sun said.
Roque still has a lot of work to do before dancers, or anyone else, can wear that kind of device in the real world. For a start, he’d like to flip the settings—making the wrist device buzz when dancers aren’t in tune with each other and go silent when they’re synchronizing.
He believes that technologies that make unconscious signals conscious could help humans learn and understand each other’s behavior—including during collective sports like soccer, cycling and more.
“In sports, you need to know what your teammates are going to do,” he said. “By using a system like this, they may be able to better learn how to understand each other during training.”
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) have joined hands to establish a structured, five-year collaboration in the domains of digital forensics, cybersecurity, and advanced technology research.
The memorandum of understanding provides an umbrella framework for collaboration and brings together two key national institutions to further strengthen cyber resilience across UIDAI’s digital infrastructure, which underpins India’s digital identity ecosystem.
The MoU was exchanged between Shri Vivek Chandra Verma, CEO UIDAI and Prof (Dr.) S.O. Junare, Director Gujarat Campus, NFSU. The ceremony was attended by Shri Abhishek Kumar Singh, Deputy Director General of UIDAI and several senior officials from both the sides.
The collaboration will focus on six strategic pillars: academic and professional development, information security and system integrity, forensic infrastructure and lab excellence, technical support for cyber security activities, technical advisory and research including join research in emerging areas like AI, blockchain, deepfake detection, and cryptographic technologies etc, and strategic placement and outreach including a pathway for placement and outreach opportunities for NFSU students.
“This collaboration marks a significant step towards further strengthening the security, resilience, and forensic capabilities supporting India’s digital public infrastructure and ensuring further safeguards for India’s digital identity systems,” said Shri Vivek Chandra Verma, CEO UIDAI.
As remote work cements itself in modern workplaces, digital collaboration platforms such as Zoom and Google Docs have become indispensable. Yet, researchers argue that these tools are still built around a flawed assumption—that all users collaborate in similar ways.
A team of researchers has now introduced a new human-computer interaction (HCI) framework called RemoteCollabEval (RCE), designed to uncover hidden barriers in digital teamwork and help developers create more inclusive collaboration environments.
The research falls within the broader field of Human-Computer Interaction, which focuses on improving usability and user experience in digital systems.
According to Sandeep Kuttal, an associate professor at North Carolina State University, existing evaluation methods rely heavily on simplified assumptions. One widely used technique, known as a groupware walkthrough, involves designers simulating how a small group of users might interact on a platform. However, these simulations often overlook the diversity in communication and collaboration styles.
Kuttal notes that individuals from different backgrounds approach teamwork differently, but current inspection methods fail to capture this variation—limiting how effective and inclusive collaboration tools can be.
Six factors shaping collaboration
To address this gap, researchers identified six core personality traits that influence how people work together:
Leadership approach—ranging from democratic to authoritative
Interruption behaviour—whether someone speaks over others or waits
Use of non-verbal cues—expressive versus reserved communication
Relationship focus—prioritising rapport versus task completion
Social awareness—attention to team dynamics
Collaborative confidence—belief in the group’s ability to succeed
Using these dimensions, the team created detailed user “personas” to represent different collaboration styles. These personas allow developers to simulate real-world friction and identify what the researchers call “inclusivity bugs”—issues that standard testing methods often miss.
Rethinking how platforms are tested
The RCE framework builds on traditional groupware walkthroughs but requires designers to actively consider all six personality facets during evaluation. By combining structured personas with a revised walkthrough process, the method provides a more nuanced assessment of how platforms perform across diverse user behaviours.
To test the approach, researchers conducted a study involving 29 students divided into 10 teams. Half the teams used conventional evaluation methods, while the others applied the RCE framework to assess the same collaboration platform.
The results were striking. Teams using RCE identified six times more inclusivity-related issues compared to those using traditional methods.
Toward better digital teamwork
The findings suggest that incorporating behavioural diversity into design testing can significantly improve how collaboration tools function in real-world settings. By identifying friction points early, developers can refine features and interfaces to better support varied teamwork styles.
Importantly, researchers emphasise that RCE is both practical and scalable. It does not require extensive resources or specialised infrastructure, making it accessible for design teams across organisations.
As remote and hybrid work environments continue to evolve, such approaches could play a critical role in shaping collaboration tools that are not just functional, but genuinely inclusive.
Many breast cancer therapies work by causing DNA replication stress, but triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells survive this stress, even at high levels
TNBC cells overexpress an enzyme, RNase H2, that helps them survive the DNA damage caused by replication stress
In this preclinical study, blocking RNase H2 directly damaged cancer cells and also activated the immune system, making this a promising therapeutic approach.
Blocking RNase H2 Enzyme Shows Promise Against Aggressive Breast Cancer
Scientists at University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified a crucial enzyme that helps one of the most difficult forms of breast cancer withstand treatment, opening up a potential new therapeutic pathway.
The study, published in Cell Reports Medicine, focuses on RNase H2—an enzyme that appears to enable triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells to survive intense DNA damage caused during treatment. TNBC is widely considered one of the most aggressive breast cancer subtypes due to its resistance to many standard therapies.
Led by researcher Shiaw-Yih Lin, the team found that RNase H2 plays a dual role. While it helps cancer cells cope with DNA replication stress, blocking the enzyme both damages tumour DNA and triggers the body’s immune system, effectively turning the cancer’s survival mechanism against itself.
Lin described this as a “one-two punch,” where inhibiting RNase H2 not only disrupts the tumour’s ability to manage stress but also activates immune signals that draw T cells to attack the cancer.
Why replication stress matters
Replication stress occurs when cells struggle to copy their DNA accurately, leading to structural damage. Many cancer treatments deliberately induce this stress to kill tumour cells. However, TNBC cells have developed ways to tolerate and survive it, allowing the disease to persist and progress.
One key contributor to this stress is the build-up of RNA fragments within DNA. RNase H2 typically removes these fragments to maintain genomic stability.
The enzyme’s hidden role in cancer survival
The researchers discovered that RNase H2 is significantly overproduced in TNBC tumours and is linked to poorer patient outcomes. This suggests that the enzyme helps cancer cells adapt to and survive high levels of DNA damage.
When the team blocked RNase H2—either through genetic methods or experimental drugs—tumour cells experienced heightened replication stress, leading to reduced tumour growth in preclinical models. At the same time, the resulting DNA damage activated the innate immune system, which then signalled T cells to target the cancer.
Implications for future treatment
Although the findings are still at a preclinical stage, they point to RNase H2 as a promising drug target. Inhibitors of the enzyme are already under development, and the study suggests they could be used alongside existing therapies.
Notably, blocking RNase H2 was found to enhance the effectiveness of ATR and PARP inhibitors—two classes of drugs already used in cancer treatment—raising the possibility of combination therapies in future clinical trials.
If validated in humans, this approach could offer a more effective strategy against TNBC, a cancer subtype that has long posed challenges due to its limited treatment options.
A team of professional and amateur Japanese astronomers found evidence for a thin atmosphere around a small body in the outer Solar System. The object is so small that it should not have a sustainable atmosphere, raising questions about when and how the atmosphere formed. Future observations to better characterize the atmosphere will help solve these mysteries.
In the cold reaches of the outer Solar System lie thousands of small objects known as trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) because they lie outside the orbit of Neptune. A thin atmosphere has been observed around Pluto, the most famous TNO, but studies of other TNOs have yielded negative results. Most TNOs are so cold, and their surface gravity so weak, that they are not expected to retain atmospheres.
But astronomers like to expect the unexpected, so they took advantage of a lucky “natural experiment” to look for an atmosphere around a TNO known as (612533) 2002 XV93. This object, abbreviated as 2002 XV93, has a diameter of approximately 500 km. For reference, Pluto’s diameter is 2,377 km. The orbit of 2002 XV93 is such that, as seen from Japan, it passed directly in front of a star on January 10, 2024. As the star disappears behind 2002 XV93, it might gradually fade, indicating that the light is being attenuated as it passes through a thin atmosphere; or it might suddenly wink out as it slips behind the solid surface of the TNO.
Artist’s conception of this research showing an imagined time sequence as a star passes behind a TNO with an atmosphere. Credit:NAOJ
A team of professional and amateur astronomers, led by Ko Arimatsu at NAOJ Ishigakijima Astronomical Observatory, observed the star as 2002 XV93 passed in front of it from multiple sites in Japan. The obtained data are consistent with attenuation by an atmosphere.
Calculations show that the atmosphere found around 2002 XV93 is expected to last less than 1000 years unless it is replenished. So it must have been created or replenished recently. Observations by the James Webb Space Telescope show no signs of frozen gases on the surface of 2002 XV93 that might sublimate to form an atmosphere. One possibility is that some event brought frozen or liquid gases from deep inside the TNO to the surface. Another possibility is that a comet crashed into 2002 XV93, releasing gas that formed a temporary atmosphere. Further observations are needed to distinguish between these two scenarios.
A new study has found that children born to mothers lacking a specific fatty acid in their blood during pregnancy face a significantly higher risk of developing asthma in early life, shedding fresh light on how prenatal conditions shape long-term respiratory health.
Childhood asthma—often marked by shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and frequent respiratory infections—remains one of the most widespread chronic illnesses among children globally. Increasingly, scientists are tracing its origins back to the earliest stages of life, including the prenatal period.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and the Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC), based at the Danish Pediatric Asthma Center, examined the role of a fatty acid molecule known as 12-HETE in pregnant women. Their findings suggest that the absence of this molecule is associated with a markedly higher likelihood of children developing asthmatic bronchitis within their first year.
Over a ten-year observation period, the study found that children whose mothers lacked measurable levels of 12-HETE faced a 62 percent higher incidence of asthma compared to those whose mothers had detectable levels. However, researchers caution that the findings establish correlation rather than direct causation.
The study also identified broader health implications. Infants born to mothers without measurable 12-HETE were more prone to repeated respiratory infections and showed distinct differences in airway bacterial composition. These early-life changes in the microbiome and immune response are believed to contribute to the elevated asthma risk.
According to the researchers, differences in airway biology can be detected as early as one month after birth. Lower levels of the fatty acid during fetal development may impair immune system maturation, leading to an altered lung microbiome and increased vulnerability to infections.
The findings also add nuance to the role of omega-3 supplements during pregnancy. While earlier research has suggested that omega-3 intake—commonly through fish oil—can help reduce asthma risk in children, this study indicates that the benefit may depend on the presence of 12-HETE. Among mothers with measurable levels of the fatty acid, omega-3 supplementation was linked to a 58 percent reduction in early childhood asthma. No such effect was observed in mothers lacking the molecule.
This suggests that blanket supplementation strategies may not be equally effective for all pregnant women, and future interventions could be tailored based on individual biological markers.
Despite the promising insights, researchers stress that the findings are not yet ready for clinical application. More precise benchmarks for measuring 12-HETE levels are needed before it can be used to guide treatment or prevention strategies.
The research draws on data from two major cohorts—the Danish COPSAC2010 study and the US-based VDAART cohort—tracking more than 1,600 mothers and their children. The consistency of findings across both groups strengthens the reliability of the results, even as questions around causality remain unresolved.
Taken together, the study points to the potential of 12-HETE as a biomarker that could one day enable more personalised approaches to preventing childhood asthma—an area of growing urgency given the condition’s global prevalence.
India is emerging as a leading hub for Medical Value Travel (MVT) by integrating advanced medical infrastructure with traditional wellness systems such as AYUSH. Strong policy support, digital facilitation, and initiatives like AYUSH Visa and Regional Medical Hubs are strengthening the ecosystem. Rising global healthcare costs and demand for holistic care are driving international patients to India for affordable, high-quality treatment and preventive wellness solutions.
Across the world, rising healthcare costs, long waiting times, and the growing burden of lifestyle diseases are driving patients to seek treatment abroad. This global shift has led to the emergence of a multi-billion-dollar Medical Value Travel (MVT) industry.
The global Medical Value Travel market was valued at about USD 115.6 billion in 2022. It is projected to reach around USD 286.1 billion by 2030. The market is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 10.8%.
India has emerged as one of the most significant destinations in this evolving global landscape. Industry estimates place the medical tourism market at about USD 8.7 billion in 2025, with projections of USD 16.2 billion by 2030.
For centuries, India has been regarded as a sanctuary for those seeking healing, balance and recovery. Today, this ancient legacy has evolved into a dynamic Medical Value Travel ecosystem. It combines modern medical science with the timeless wisdom of traditional systems.
Through the flagship “Heal in India” initiative, the Government is positioning the country as a premier destination for integrated and holistic healthcare.
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To understand the scope of this landscape, it is essyogaential to distinguish between its two vibrant pillars:
Medical Tourism: It focuses on curative interventions such as complex surgeries, organ transplants, and advanced diagnostic care provided by specialised hospitals and healthcare institutions.
Wellness Tourism: It centres on preventive and holistic well-being through traditional systems such as Yoga, Ayurveda, Naturopathy and other AYUSH practices. It offers therapies that promote physical, mental and spiritual health.
Together, these two pillars form the foundation of India’s Medical Value Travel ecosystem. They address both advanced clinical treatment needs and the rising global demand for preventive healthcare.
According to the Medical Tourism Index 2020–21:
India ranks 10th among the top 46 medical tourism destinations globally
12th among the world’s top 20 wellness tourism markets
5th among the top 10 wellness destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.
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The 2025-26 Statistical Landscape
As per Ministry of Tourism estimates, in FY24, travel and tourism contributed 5.22 per cent to GDP, close to pre-pandemic levels. The sector also supported an estimated 8.46 crore direct and indirect jobs, accounting for about 13.3 per cent of total employment.
The latest data for 2025 highlights the sector’s momentum:
Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs): In 2025, India recorded 9.15 million FTAs.
Medical Purpose Arrivals: In 2025, 507,244 foreign nationals arrived specifically for medical treatment.
Sectoral Share: 2025 data shows that medical tourism constitutes approximately 5.5% of total FTAs.
Leading Markets: According to 2025 figures, the top source countries for medical tourists include- Bangladesh (3,25,127 arrivals), followed by Iraq (30,989), Uzbekistan (13,699), Somalia (11,506), Turkmenistan (10,231), Oman (9738), and Kenya (9,357).
Patients from other countries primarily travel to India for specialised treatments such as:
Cardiac surgery
Orthopaedic procedures
Cancer treatment
Organ transplants
Neurological interventions
Cosmetic surgery
Dental care
Fertility treatment
AYUSH-based wellness therapies
India’s Competitive Edge: Quality, Expertise and Affordability
India holds a unique advantage that places it 10th globally in the Medical Tourism Index (MTI). The government identifies several pillars of this competitive advantage:
Robust Medical Resources
India’s healthcare system is supported by one of the world’s largest pools of trained medical professionals.
India has 69,364 hospitals (43,486 private hospitals, and 25,778 public hospitals) with 1.2 million registered doctors, achieving WHO recommended doctor population ratio.
Furthermore, English serves as the primary language of medical education and clinical practice in India, enabling seamless communication with international patients. Over the past decade, India has significantly expanded its medical education capacity and healthcare infrastructure. This has strengthened the availability of skilled healthcare professionals across specialised disciplines.
Advanced Technology and Accreditation
India’s healthcare system is supported by robust quality assurance mechanisms and internationally recognised accreditation standards. Hospitals and healthcare providers across the country obtain accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH).
NABH establishes rigorous benchmarks for patient safety and quality of care. As of 2026, NABH has accredited over 1,299 hospitals using more than 600 safety parameters. Meanwhile, the Quality Council of India oversees systematic quality improvement.
NABH accreditation is recognised globally through its affiliation with the International Society for Quality in Healthcare (ISQua). In addition, several Indian hospitals hold Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. It places the hospitals among healthcare institutions that meet globally accepted standards of clinical excellence.
Medical Value Travel (MVT) service providers are primarily concentrated in the Southern and Western States of India. As of 2022, the concentration of JCI-accredited hospitals by city is as follows:
City
Number of JCI Accredited Hospitals
Delhi
9
Mumbai
6
Bangalore
3
Chennai
2
Hyderabad
2
Ahmedabad
2
Kolkata
1
Nagpur
1
Cochin
1
Other notable cities with a concentration of service providers include Pune and Nashik.
Cost-Effective Medical Treatment
India’s medical tourism appeal is significantly strengthened by its cost competitiveness. High-quality medical treatment in India is often available at substantially lower cost compared to many developed countries, while maintaining comparable clinical standards.
This affordability is supported by advanced medical technology and skilled professionals.
It enables international patients to access specialised treatment without long waiting periods.
Strengthening AYUSH-led Medical Value Travel
India possesses a unique advantage in wellness tourism through its centuries-old traditional systems of medicine collectively known as AYUSH — Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy.
As the birthplace of Yoga and Ayurveda, India continues to promote these systems as integral components of holistic health and preventive care.
AYUSH Visa Facilitation: To streamline access for international patients, the Government of India introduced a dedicated AYUSH Visa on 27 July 2023. It enables foreign nationals and their attendants to travel to India specifically for treatment under recognised AYUSH systems.
Quality Standards: Efforts are underway to strengthen credibility and standardisation in the sector. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has adopted ISO 22525, an international standard related to medical wellness tourism services.
Insurance Coverage: Insurance coverage for AYUSH therapies has also expanded significantly. Under the Health Insurance Regulations of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), insurers are permitted to cover treatments under AYUSH. As a result, around 27 insurance companies now offer more than 140 policy products covering AYUSH treatments.
Global Engagement and Ecosystem Development: Medical Value Travel remains a key theme across major AYUSH initiatives. This includes the “Global Synergy in AYUSH: Transforming Health and Wellness through Medical Value Travel” Summit, held in Mumbai (2024) and Chennai (May 2025).
Capacity building is being strengthened through initiatives such as the AYUSH sub-council under the Health Sector Skill Council.
Global outreach is also expanding through platforms like the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Summit, the Know India Programme, and AYUSH initiatives showcased during Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.
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Strategic Initiatives: Union Budget 2026-27 Highlights
The Government of India has unveiled a visionary path to cement the nation’s status as a global medical hub through the Union Budget 2026-27.
Regional Medical Hubs
A key proposal involves the establishment of five Regional Medical Hubs across the country in partnership with State Governments and the private sector. These Hubs are designed as integrated healthcare complexes that will house medical, educational, and research facilities under one umbrella.
To ensure a comprehensive healing experience, these hubs will feature:
Specialised Centres: Every hub will include AYUSH Centres and dedicated Medical Value Tourism (MVT) Facilitation Centres.
End-to-End Care: Infrastructure will be developed for advanced diagnostics, post-treatment care, and rehabilitation.
Employment Generation: These complexes are expected to create diverse job opportunities for doctors and Allied Health Professionals (AHPs).
Infrastructure for Wellness
In addition to strengthening modern healthcare infrastructure, the Government is also expanding the country’s capacity in traditional systems of medicine.
The establishment of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda has been proposed to enhance education, research, and clinical services in Ayurveda.
Simultaneously, the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar is being upgraded to strengthen evidence-based research and global collaboration in traditional medicine systems.
These initiatives reflect the Government’s integrated approach to developing both medical treatment services and wellness-based healing traditions as complementary pillars of India’s healthcare ecosystem.
Roadmap for Quality and Governance
To maintain India’s competitive advantage, the Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism.
The roadmap focuses on three key areas of governance:
Institutional Framework: The National Medical & Wellness Tourism Promotion Board (NMWTB) serves as an umbrella organisation to coordinate between ministries, state governments, and the private sector.
Quality Assurance: The government is strengthening NABH accreditation for hospitals, wellness centres, and dental clinics. It is also encouraging the registration and rating of Medical Value Trave (MVT) facilitators to build international trust.
Skilling and Capacity Building: The Union Budget 2026-27 proposed a pilot scheme to upskill 10,000 guides in 20 iconic tourist sites through a 12-week training course. Additionally, paramedical and non-medical staff are being trained in cross-cultural sensitivities and foreign languages to better serve international patients.
By integrating these governance and quality measures, the government aims to project India as a 365-day destination for holistic healing. This integrated communication strategy, is promoted as a sub-brand of “Incredible India”. Through these initiatives, India is transitioning toward a more formalised, regulated, and trusted global hub for the “holistic health revolution”.
Government Facilitation and Digital Transformation
The government has streamlined the international patient’s journey through robust digital and policy interventions. A cornerstone of this is the liberalised visa regime, where the e-Medical Visa and e-Medical Attendant Visa facilities have been extended to nationals of 172 countries.
Additionally, new categories like the e-AYUSH Visa and e-AYUSH Attendant Visa have been introduced to support those seeking traditional Indian treatments.
Digital initiatives are further enhancing the “Heal in India” experience:
Revamped MVT Portal: The government is upgrading the one-stop Medical Value Travel Portal to provide an “end-to-end” solution. It enables patients to explore, plan, and book services, as well as make payments and access post-operative care.
Airport Facilitation: Plans include setting up MVT Concierge and Lounges at important airports. This is to greet travellers at the aerobridge and assist them through immigration, customs, and baggage claims.
Institutional Mechanism for Medical and Wellness Tourism
To ensure coordinated development of Medical Value Travel, the Government has established an institutional framework.
National Medical & Wellness Tourism Promotion Board (NMWTB): Constituted by the Ministry of Tourism in 2015, chaired by the Union Minister for Tourism. It promotes and facilitates medical and wellness tourism in India.
Multi-Stakeholder Platform: The Board brings together ministries, state governments, hospitals, wellness centres, accreditation bodies, and industry stakeholders. Together, they strengthen the Medical Value Travel ecosystem.
State-Level Coordination: States are encouraged to establish dedicated Medical and Wellness Tourism Promotion Boards or cells to support regional development and promotion.
Promoting Wellness and Cultural Integration
Wellness tourism represents an important component of India’s broader health tourism strategy. The country’s rich traditions in yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and spiritual healing offer unique opportunities for integrating wellness with cultural tourism.
Yoga as a Global Brand for Holistic Health
Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition derived from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’ (meaning “to join” or “to unite”). It has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s global soft power. It symbolises the unity of mind, body, thought, and action, and promotes a holistic approach to well-being.
The 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025 served as the primary vehicle for integrating wellness into the national and global consciousness. Under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” the event aligned yoga with sustainability and global well-being.
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India is positioned as a favoured destination for Yoga and traditional therapies, attracting Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs). They travel specifically to maintain their wellness lifestyle or seek preventive healthcare. This journey is now significantly streamlined by the government’s dedicated e-AYUSH Visa facility.
Towards a Global Healing Hub
India’s medical and wellness tourism ecosystem is evolving into a globally trusted model of integrated healthcare. It combines modern medical infrastructure with traditional systems such as AYUSH. This enables both curative and preventive care.
Strong government policy, digital facilitation, and international quality standards support this growth. Expanding global outreach is further strengthening India’s position as a comprehensive destination for Medical Value Travel.
As global demand rises, India is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of global healthcare and wellness travel.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has appointed noted lyricist, writer and communications strategist Prasoon Joshi as the Chairman of Prasar Bharati, the country’s public service broadcasting body.
Joshi brings with him a wide creative and professional canvas, spanning literature, advertising, cinema and public messaging. Recognised for writing that blends cultural depth with contemporary relevance, his work across film lyrics, brand campaigns and social narratives has consistently resonated with diverse audiences.
Welcoming the appointment, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw described Joshi as a rare creative voice whose work reflects Indian ethos while earning global recognition. He expressed confidence that Joshi’s leadership would infuse Prasar Bharati with renewed direction and creative vitality.
Prior to this role, Joshi served as Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification since 2017, where he navigated the balance between artistic freedom and regulatory oversight. His earlier corporate tenure includes leading McCann Worldgroup India as CEO and heading its Asia Pacific operations. He is also associated as a trustee with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts.
His appointment comes at a time when public broadcasting is undergoing rapid technological shifts and adapting to changing audience behaviour, placing renewed emphasis on digital engagement and content innovation.
About Prasar Bharati
Formed under the Prasar Bharati Act of 1990 and operational since 1997, Prasar Bharati functions as India’s autonomous public broadcaster. It operates through two key arms: All India Radio, one of the world’s largest radio networks reaching audiences across regions and languages, and Doordarshan, which delivers news, education, entertainment and cultural programming nationwide.
The organisation has also expanded its digital presence with its OTT platform, Waves, aimed at strengthening free-to-air digital broadcasting.
With an extensive terrestrial and digital network, Prasar Bharati continues to play a central role in delivering credible information, promoting cultural continuity and ensuring inclusive access to public service media across India.
The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), a CPSE under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), today formally unveiled Padma Doree, a unique cross-cultural textile initiative that brings together the Eri (Ahimsa) silk traditions of Northeast India with the rich Chanderi weaving heritage of Madhya Pradesh.
The initiative was officially launched by Secretary, MDoNER, Sanjay Jaju, followed by a captivating fashion show that showcased the fusion of Eri silk—renowned for its ethical and sustainable production—with the intricate motifs and finesse of Chanderi textiles.
Speaking on the occasion Shri Sanjay Jaju said It is Hon’rable Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s vision of Ek Bharat Shresth Bharat that Padma Doree is come into being. He said that under the visionary leadership of Union Minister of Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia this new initiative as realised today .
He stated Padma Doree is distinct because it is coming from two different textile traditions – Chanderi from Madhya Pradesh and Eri Silk from the North East India. Shri Jaju said Padma Doree is not just bringing heritage, but also brining innovation.
The launch event featured curated exhibition walkthroughs, offering insights into the development of the textiles and the collaborative processes behind them. Positioned within the broader discourse on Indian textiles, indigenous knowledge systems, and sustainable luxury, the initiative underscores the relevance of traditional crafts in contemporary markets.
The three-day exhibition, commencing today, has been designed as an interactive and evolving platform, allowing visitors to engage directly with artisans, understand textile processes, and experience the journey from fibre to fabric.
Artisans from Northeast India and Madhya Pradesh are actively participating in the showcase, offering live demonstrations and sharing insights into their craft traditions. The event also integrates regional culinary experiences, reflecting the cultural richness of the participating regions.
Speaking at launching programme NEHHDC Managing DirectoMara Kocho said, “Padma Doree brings together the fibre traditions of the North East and the handloom heritage of Chanderi, creating an integrated and sustainable textile ecosystem.
The unveiling event was graced by film Director Muzaffar Ali, Senior officials of MDoNER, officials from Madhya Pradesh Handloom along with other dignitaries, designers, and artisans associated with the initiative.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has appointed noted filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker as Festival Director for the 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India, scheduled to take place in Goa later this year.
Gowariker, known for his expansive body of work in Indian cinema, brings with him decades of association with the festival. His engagement with IFFI reflects a long-standing involvement with both Indian and global film cultures, positioning him as a seasoned choice for the role.
Reacting to the appointment, Gowariker said he was honoured to take on the responsibility. He recalled his journey with the festival, noting that he first attended IFFI in 1984 and has remained connected to it over the years, most recently serving as Jury President for International Cinema in 2024. He described the opportunity as both a privilege and a moment of pride.
He emphasised the legacy of the festival, which has been shaped by numerous contributors since its inception in 1952, and said he looks forward to working closely with the Union Ministry and the Government of Goa to build on that foundation.
Established in 1952, IFFI is among Asia’s most prominent film festivals and serves as a key platform for global cinema. Over the decades, it has evolved into a meeting point for filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences, fostering cultural exchange through cinema.
Organised jointly by the National Film Development Corporation under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Entertainment Society of Goa, the festival has grown into a diverse showcase of cinematic expression. Its programming typically includes international competitions, country focus segments, retrospectives, masterclasses, and the Film Bazaar—an industry hub for collaboration and project development.
Set against Goa’s coastal landscape, the upcoming 57th edition, scheduled for November 2026, is expected to expand its scope further, bringing together a wide spectrum of storytelling traditions, languages, and emerging technologies in cinema.
In a significant move to bolster supply security and accelerate a circular economy, the Ministry of Mines has completed eligibility screening for its incentive programme on critical mineral recycling, clearing 58 companies to participate.
The scheme—backed by a ₹1,500 crore outlay under the National Critical Mineral Mission—was notified on October 2, 2025, alongside detailed operational guidelines. It is designed to build domestic recycling capacity for key materials recovered from lithium-ion batteries, electronic waste and industrial scrap, helping curb import dependence while supporting clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
Applications were invited between October 2, 2025 and April 1, 2026, drawing strong industry interest. Submissions were evaluated by the Project Management Agency at the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre, in line with prescribed criteria.
Following the review, the Executive Committee approved 58 entities in two tranches—20 on March 30, 2026, and 38 on April 29, 2026. Together, these firms have committed an estimated 850 KTPA of recycling capacity and investments of around ₹5,000 crore. The selected participants span battery recycling, e-waste processing and recovery from other waste streams, indicating growing momentum in India’s critical minerals ecosystem.
The programme now moves into the implementation phase, where approved projects will be assessed for financial support based on capacity creation and the start of operations.
