Category Archives: GENERAL

‘SHE Marts’ Scheme To Support Rural Women Entrepreneurs Under NRLM Announced

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For many women in rural India, the challenge is not producing goods but finding a reliable place to sell them.

The government has announced a new initiative called Self Help Entrepreneur Marts, designed to give women led enterprises a direct link to consumers. [1]

The proposal focuses on women working within Self Help Groups, or SHGs, which are community based collectives that support savings, credit and small scale enterprise activity.

The update was shared in the Lok Sabha by Minister of State for Rural Development Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani. [1]

SHE Marts scheme under NRLM for SHG market access

The initiative will operate under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Rural Livelihoods Mission, a flagship program aimed at promoting sustainable livelihoods for rural households. [1]

SHE Marts are envisioned as structured retail outlets where products made by SHG members can be displayed and sold directly to customers.

Officials said the model is intended to improve visibility for locally produced goods and create stronger market linkages.

The marts are expected to function as community owned retail platforms managed through cluster level federations of SHGs. [1]

These federations bring together multiple groups to coordinate production, financing and marketing activities.

Rural women entrepreneurs transition from credit to enterprise ownership

The government said the initiative is part of a broader effort to support women in moving beyond credit linked livelihood activities.

The focus is on enabling them to become enterprise owners capable of scaling their businesses.

Support under the program will include market access and capacity building, aimed at strengthening business skills and operational capabilities. [1]

Officials said this transition is critical for improving income stability and long term economic participation among rural women.

The initiative also seeks to strengthen institutional structures within the SHG ecosystem by integrating production and retail functions.

SHE Marts funding model and implementation status

According to the government, the marts will be set up using enhanced and innovative financing mechanisms.

These are expected to support the establishment of retail infrastructure at the community level.

No funds have been sanctioned or spent on the initiative so far, indicating that it remains at the proposal stage. [1]

The announcement outlines a framework that combines institutional support, market access and financing tools to expand opportunities for rural women entrepreneurs.

Thousands of crores lie unclaimed; how RBI, SEBI and IRDAI help citizens reclaim it [See measures]

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Money left untouched in bank accounts, insurance policies and investments is accumulating across India. Regulators say they are now moving to return it to rightful owners.

 

Illegal Fishing Intrusions Reported Off Andhra Coast, Centre Details Action

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Fishing boats crossing invisible maritime boundaries have triggered recurring tensions along India’s eastern coast.

The Union Government told the Lok Sabha that Andhra Pradesh has reported occasional illegal fishing by mechanized vessels from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry inside its territorial waters.

The incidents include operations in traditional fishing zones and in the ecologically sensitive Pulicat Lake area, a brackish water lagoon shared by Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, provided the details in response to a parliamentary question.

Marine fishing regulation India territorial waters and EEZ framework

Fishing governance in India is divided between states and the Union government based on maritime zones.

Coastal states and Union Territory administrations regulate fishing within territorial waters extending up to 12 nautical miles under Entry 21 of the State List in the Constitution of India.

Beyond that, the Union Government manages fishing activities in the Exclusive Economic Zone, or EEZ, under Entry 57 of the Union List.

States enforce their respective Marine Fishing Regulation Acts, which often include provisions to protect traditional fishermen.

Several coastal administrations have designated exclusive zones for non motorized and small motorized craft, restricting access for mechanized vessels in those areas.

These rules are intended to reduce conflicts and protect livelihoods dependent on near shore fishing.

Andhra Tamil Nadu fishing dispute Pulicat Lake and RFMC intervention

According to the government, Andhra Pradesh has raised concerns about incursions by vessels from neighboring regions.

To address such inter state disputes, the Department of Fisheries under the Government of India established three Regional Fisheries Management Councils, or RFMCs, through an order dated March 29, 2023.

These councils are divided into western, eastern and southern regions and serve as coordination platforms for states and Union Territories.

The Indian Coast Guard, India’s maritime security force responsible for coastal surveillance and law enforcement at sea, is represented in all three councils.

Issues flagged by states are placed before the relevant council for discussion and resolution.

Following concerns raised by Andhra Pradesh at a Southern RFMC meeting on August 19, 2023, Tamil Nadu initiated additional steps.

On January 31, 2024, the Tamil Nadu government constituted a district level committee involving officials from Thiruvallur, Chennai and Chengalpattu in Tamil Nadu, and SPSR Nellore, Prakasam and Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh.

The committee has been tasked with sensitizing fishermen and addressing disputes between the two states.

Tamil Nadu has also stated that enforcement action is taken against offending vessels under the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983, based on evidence such as photographs and video recordings shared by Andhra Pradesh.

Inter state coordination and action against illegal fishing vessels

The Union Government said coordination mechanisms are already in place to manage such disputes and prevent escalation.

Tamil Nadu has indicated that it works with neighboring coastal states and Union Territories through institutional channels to ensure uninterrupted fishing activities.

The state has also highlighted measures aimed at strengthening safety and livelihood protections for fishermen.

In cases involving Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh refers incidents of illegal fishing to the Union Territory administration for appropriate action.

At the same time, Andhra Pradesh is pursuing amendments to its Marine Fishing Regulation Act of 1994.

The proposed changes aim to introduce stricter provisions to tackle illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, often referred to as IUU fishing, within its territorial waters.

The government’s response outlines a system that relies on coordination, enforcement and legal reforms to manage shared marine resources across state boundaries.

Union Public Service Commission announces February 2026 Recruitment Results, Candidates Informed By Post

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The Union Public Service Commission, India’s central recruiting agency for civil services and other government posts, has released its recruitment results for February 2026.

The commission said the selection process for various positions conducted during the month has been completed, with final recommendations made.

Candidates who have been recommended for appointment have been informed individually through postal communication, according to the official statement.

The UPSC conducts recruitment for a wide range of posts across ministries and departments of the Government of India, following a multi stage evaluation process that typically includes screening, interviews, and final selection.

UPSC recruitment selection process and candidate communication details

In its announcement, the commission stated that all applications received for the advertised posts were duly examined before shortlisting candidates for further stages.

Only those who met the eligibility criteria and cleared the evaluation process were called for interviews and considered for final recommendation.

Candidates who were not shortlisted or recommended have not been selected for the respective posts, the commission said.

The UPSC noted that while all applications were reviewed, it was not possible to call every applicant for interviews due to the competitive nature of the selection process.

The commission did not release individual marks or detailed cutoffs as part of this announcement.

Recruitment results are typically published periodically, with the commission issuing separate notifications for different months depending on the completion of selection cycles.

UPSC recruitment results February 2026 implications for applicants

The announcement marks the conclusion of recruitment processes for positions finalized in February 2026.

For selected candidates, the next steps usually involve verification of documents and formal appointment procedures carried out by the respective government departments.

For others, the process ends at this stage, with no further action required unless reapplication is made in future recruitment cycles.

The UPSC emphasized that the selection process is based on merit and established criteria, with applications assessed at each stage before final recommendations are made.

The commission continues to conduct recruitment examinations and interviews throughout the year for various posts.

Click here to see result

(https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2026/mar/doc2026324832401.pdf)

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Lead levels only in food? Tests now find it in Children’s fast fashion clothing above Federal limits

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A brightly colored shirt, soft to the touch and designed for everyday wear, may carry more than dye.

Preliminary tests conducted by researchers at Marian University, a private university in Indianapolis, found elevated levels of lead in children’s fast fashion clothing, exceeding federal safety limits.

The findings were presented March 23 at the American Chemical Society Spring 2026 meeting in Atlanta, a major scientific conference featuring thousands of research presentations.

Researchers tested 11 children’s shirts from four retailers, including fast fashion and discount brands, and found that all samples exceeded the U.S. regulatory limit for lead in children’s products.

Lead levels in children clothing exceed U.S. safety limits

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the federal agency responsible for product safety standards, sets a lead limit of 100 parts per million for children’s items such as toys and clothing.

Each of the tested shirts surpassed that threshold, according to the researchers.

Cristina Avello, a student researcher involved in the project, said the findings are particularly concerning for younger children.

“Not only are children the most vulnerable to the effects of lead, but they’re also the population that is going to be putting their clothes in their mouths,” she said. [1]

Lead exposure is considered harmful at any level. Health agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, have linked it to neurological damage, behavioral problems, and developmental issues, especially in children under six years old.

The study found that brightly colored garments, particularly red and yellow fabrics, tended to contain higher levels of lead than more muted tones.

Researchers said this may be tied to the chemicals used in dyeing processes.

Some manufacturers use lead(II) acetate, a compound that helps dyes adhere to fabric and maintain bright colors over time.

(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Vano3333)

Simulated ingestion tests show potential exposure risk for children

In a second phase of testing, researchers simulated stomach digestion to estimate how much lead could become bioaccessible if fabric is chewed or sucked.

The analysis modeled how gastric acid might break down the material and release lead into the body.

The results suggest that even brief mouthing behavior could expose children to lead levels exceeding daily intake limits set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Researchers described the estimates as conservative, meaning actual exposure could vary depending on behavior and frequency.

They said repeated chewing over time could raise blood lead levels to a point where clinical monitoring is recommended.

Kamila Deavers, the project’s principal investigator, said the research grew out of personal experience after her child showed elevated blood lead levels linked to toy coatings before stricter regulations were in place.

“I started to see many articles about lead in clothing from fast fashion, and I realized not too many parents knew about the issue,” she said.

commons.wikimedia.org

Fast fashion textile safety concerns and next research steps

Previous studies have identified lead in metal components of clothing, such as zippers and buttons, leading to recalls.

The new research expands that concern to the fabric itself, suggesting contamination may be more widespread than previously understood.

The team plans to test additional clothing items and examine whether washing affects the presence of lead compounds.

Researchers are also exploring whether contaminated clothing could transfer lead to other garments during laundering or leave residues inside washing machines. [

They said alternative dye fixing methods already exist, including plant based compounds and mineral mordants such as alum, which are considered safer.

Adopting those alternatives would likely increase production costs, which could slow industry adoption without regulatory or consumer pressure.

The researchers said their goal is to raise awareness and encourage more rigorous screening of clothing products.

“Everything that we’re doing is only important and helpful if we talk about it,” Avello said.

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Indian Handicrafts shine in ‘Made in India- Trade Show’ Exhibition in Guatemala

Global study finds the food commodities driving major global deforestation; Beef on top

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A farmer clearing land for maize in one country, a rice field expanding in another. These local decisions, repeated millions of times, are now linked to a global pattern of forest loss.

New research from Chalmers University of Technology, a Swedish research institution, finds that staple foods consumed daily are driving more deforestation than many export crops long associated with environmental damage.

The study, published March 23, combines satellite land use data with agricultural statistics to map how 184 commodities have contributed to forest loss across 179 countries.

It offers what researchers describe as the most detailed global picture yet of how food production shapes deforestation.

Staple crops deforestation impact compared to cocoa coffee rubber

The analysis shows that maize, rice and cassava together account for about 11 percent of agriculture driven deforestation worldwide.

By comparison, cocoa, coffee and rubber combined account for less than 5 percent.

This contrasts with the dominant narrative that focuses heavily on export oriented commodities such as palm oil and soybeans.

Lead author Chandrakant Singh said earlier research has often centered on a narrow set of crops and regions.

“Deforestation’s links to food production have long been studied, but have often focused on some products, such as beef, soybeans and palm oil, which are well known in the context of deforestation,” Singh said in a statement released by Chalmers University of Technology.

The study confirms that beef production remains the single largest driver, responsible for about 40 percent of global deforestation linked to agriculture. Palm oil accounts for 9 percent, while soybeans contribute around 5 percent.

Staple crops differ in one key way. Their impact is spread across many regions rather than concentrated in a few hotspots.

Unlike palm oil in Southeast Asia or soybeans in South America, maize, rice and cassava are grown widely for domestic consumption, making their environmental footprint more diffuse and harder to track.

Agriculture driven deforestation global data and carbon emissions findings

The researchers estimate that 122 million hectares of forest were lost due to agriculture driven deforestation between 2001 and 2022. More than 80 percent of that loss occurred in tropical regions.

The study also examined carbon dioxide emissions linked to deforestation, often caused when forests are burned to clear land for farming or grazing.

Total emissions over the period were estimated at around 41 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide, averaging close to 2 billion tonnes annually.

That figure is lower than previous global estimates, which had placed annual emissions at more than twice that level. Singh said the difference reflects a more detailed method of linking specific commodities to land use changes.

Even at the lower estimate, agriculture driven deforestation accounts for about 5 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, according to the study.

wikipedia.org

Domestic food production role in deforestation policy response

Co author Martin Persson said the findings highlight the need to look beyond international trade when addressing deforestation.

“The debate on deforestation has circulated a lot around how people in rich countries like ours cause deforestation with our commodities imports, and this is absolutely important to get to grips with,” Persson said.

“But we mustn’t forget that a large proportion of deforestation is driven by agricultural production for domestic markets.”

The study suggests that policies focused only on supply chains linked to exports may overlook a significant share of forest loss driven by local food systems.

Researchers say their Deforestation Driver and Carbon Emissions model, known as DeDuCE, could help governments, companies and civil society identify where interventions are most needed.

The model links specific commodities to deforestation patterns, offering a tool for more targeted decision making.

Singh said future work will expand the model to include non food sectors such as mining and energy, which also contribute to forest loss.

For now, the study reframes a familiar issue. The drivers of deforestation are not only tied to global trade or distant markets.

They are also rooted in everyday food systems.

More about global deforestation
The figures relate to agriculture-driven deforestation between 2001 and 2022

Commodities driving global deforestation

Beef (40 per cent)
Palm oil (9 per cent)
Soy beans (5 per cent)
Maize (4 per cent)
Rice (4 per cent)
Cassava (3 per cent)
Cocoa (2 per cent)
Coffee (1 per cent)
Rubber (1 per cent)

Countries responsible for the biggest shares of global deforestation

Brazil (32 per cent)
Indonesia (9 per cent)
China (6 per cent)
Democratic Republic of Congo (6 per cent)
USA (5 per cent)
Ivory Coast (3 per cent)

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Moby Dick ‘ship sinking’ sperm whales caught headbutting, camera captures moments [Watch Video]

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The first sign came as two massive bodies turned toward each other just below the surface. Moments later, their heads met in a controlled strike.

That interaction, recorded on drone footage between 2020 and 2022, now forms the basis of a study led by the University of St Andrews, a research university in Scotland. [1]

The findings, published March 23 in Marine Mammal Science, mark the first systematic scientific documentation of sperm whales headbutting one another.

Researchers say the behavior has long been suspected but never directly observed in a structured, repeatable way.

Sperm whale headbutting behavior documented using drone footage

The footage was captured during fieldwork in the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean, and the Balearic Islands, a Spanish archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea.

Scientists used aerial drones to observe whales from above, allowing them to track interactions that are difficult to detect from boats at sea level.

Lead author Dr. Alec Burlem said the observations confirmed a hypothesis that had persisted for decades without direct evidence.

“It was really exciting to observe this behaviour, which we knew had been hypothesised for such a long time, but not yet documented and described systematically,” Burlem said in a statement issued by the University of St Andrews.

The study found that sub adult whales, rather than large adult males, were most frequently involved in the headbutting interactions.

Earlier assumptions had linked such behavior to competition among dominant males. The new findings suggest a broader social function that may involve younger members of whale groups.

Researchers say the behavior appeared deliberate and repeated, often occurring alongside other forms of social interaction at the surface.

The function remains unclear. Scientists note that additional observations will be needed to determine whether the behavior relates to play, social bonding, or competitive practice.

(Courtesy: Popular Science Podcasts)

Moby Dick and Essex whale attack accounts gain scientific backing

Accounts of sperm whales using their heads as weapons date back to the 19th century, particularly during the era of open boat whaling.

One of the most widely cited incidents involves the Essex, a 27 meter sail powered whaleship that sank in 1820 after being struck by a sperm whale in the Pacific Ocean near the Galapagos Islands.

Owen Chase, the ship’s first mate, described the encounter in a contemporary account:

“I turned around and saw him about one hundred rods directly ahead of us, coming down with twice his ordinary speed of around 24 knots, and it appeared with tenfold fury and vengeance in his aspect. The surf flew in all directions about him with the continual violent thrashing of his tail. His head about half out of the water, and in that way he came upon us, and again struck the ship.”

The incident later inspired Herman Melville’s novel Moby Dick, which depicted a powerful whale attacking ships.

Other reports from the same period, including the sinkings of the Ann Alexander and Kathleen, describe similar head on strikes by whales.

Such accounts have often been treated cautiously in scientific contexts due to the lack of direct observational evidence.

The new study does not replicate ship attacks, but it provides evidence that sperm whales do engage in controlled head first contact with each other.

Evolutionary risks and questions about whale communication systems

The findings also raise questions about how such behavior fits within sperm whale biology.

Some researchers have suggested that headbutting may originate from physical contests, potentially linked to mating competition between males.

Others have argued that repeated use of the head as a weapon could pose risks. The sperm whale head contains structures critical for producing sound, including clicks used for echolocation and social communication.

Damage to these structures could affect navigation and group coordination, making the behavior potentially costly.

The study does not resolve these competing explanations. It documents the behavior and outlines possible interpretations based on observed patterns.

Burlem said drone technology is likely to expand what scientists can observe at the ocean surface.

“This unique overhead perspective for observing and documenting near surface behaviour is just one of the ways drone technology is transforming the study of wildlife biology,” he said.

He added that researchers are seeking additional footage from other observers to better understand how widespread the behavior may be.

For now, an observation once confined to maritime history and literature has entered the scientific record.

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TikTok’s mental health ‘minefield’ may be unreliable or misleading: Study

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Social media platforms have become a go-to source for mental health information, especially among young users. But a new study suggests that much of what people encounter online, particularly on TikTok, may be unreliable or even misleading.

Researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) found that a significant share of posts related to conditions such as ADHD and autism contain inaccuracies or lack proper evidence. Their analysis, which covered multiple platforms including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X, points to a broader issue: misinformation around mental health is widespread, and in some cases, alarmingly high.

The study reviewed more than 5,000 posts across a range of mental health topics, from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia and eating disorders. It found that misleading content could make up as much as 56 per cent of posts in certain areas, highlighting how easily unverified claims can spread in highly engaging formats like short videos.

Among all platforms, TikTok stood out for having the highest levels of questionable content. According to the researchers, over half of the ADHD-related videos analysed, and around 52 per cent were found to be inaccurate. For autism-related content, the figure stood at 41 per cent. By comparison, misinformation rates were lower on YouTube, averaging about 22 per cent, and even lower on Facebook at under 15 per cent.

Experts say this matters because social media is increasingly shaping how young people understand their mental health. Many turn to these platforms to interpret symptoms or self-diagnose conditions. While this can sometimes prompt useful self-reflection, it also carries risks when the information is incomplete or incorrect.

Misleading content can blur the line between normal behaviour and clinical conditions, potentially leading people to wrongly believe they have a disorder, or, conversely, delay seeking help when they actually need it. It may also reinforce stigma, create unnecessary fear, or promote treatments that lack scientific backing.

The study also highlights a stark divide between who is creating content and how reliable it is. Posts made by healthcare professionals were consistently more accurate, but they represent only a small fraction of what users see. For instance, just 3 per cent of ADHD-related videos by professionals contained misinformation, compared to 55 per cent among non-professional creators.

wikipedia.org/

At the same time, the researchers acknowledge that personal stories and lived experiences shared by individuals can play a valuable role in raising awareness and helping others feel understood. The challenge lies in ensuring that such content is complemented by clear, evidence-based guidance from qualified experts.

Another key factor driving misinformation is the way platforms like TikTok operate. Their algorithms tend to prioritise content that is engaging and widely shared, regardless of its accuracy. Once users show interest in a topic, they are often fed a steady stream of similar videos, creating echo chambers where misleading ideas can quickly gain traction.

There are, however, some exceptions. The study found that YouTube Kids performed notably better, with no misinformation detected in content related to anxiety and depression, and relatively low levels, and around 8.9 per cent for ADHD. Researchers attribute this to stricter moderation and content controls.

Overall, the findings point to a growing need for stronger safeguards. The authors call for better moderation systems, clearer standards for identifying misinformation, and more active participation from clinicians and health organisations in creating accessible, trustworthy content.

As social media continues to shape public understanding of mental health, the study makes one thing clear: while these platforms can be powerful tools for awareness, without reliable information, they can just as easily become a source of confusion.

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Summer Travel Time: Full List of India’s UNESCO World Sites

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There are 44 World Heritage Properties in the country, while the Government has sent the following proposals to the World Heritage Centre for consideration for inclusion in the World Heritage List two more sites:

  1. Ancient Buddhist Site, Sarnath (2025-26)
  2. JingkiengJri / Lyu Charai Cultural Landscape (2026-27)

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) undertakes conservation and maintenance of 3,686 monuments, including 27 World Heritage properties, along with the provision of amenities for tourists such as drinking water, toilet blocks, pathways and landscaping etc. for protected monuments/sites under the ASI’s jurisdiction. Conservation and maintenance of these monuments/sites is a continuous process and is carried out based on the needs of the monuments and the availability of resources.

(https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1570/gallery/–Author: ASI)

Properties on World Heritage List (44)

  1. Cultural World Heritage Properties in India          :           36
  2. Natural World Heritage Properties in India           :           07
  3. Mixed World Heritage Properties in India             :           01

 

CULTURAL SITES:

Under Protection of Archaeological Survey of India (27)

S.

No

 

 Name of Site State

 

 Year of inscription
Agra Fort Uttar Pradesh 1983
Ajanta Caves Maharashtra 1983
Ellora Caves Maharashtra 1983
Taj Mahal Uttar Pradesh 1983
Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram Tamil Nadu 1984
Sun Temple, Konarak Odisha 1984
Churches and Convents of Goa Goa 1986
Fatehpur Sikri Uttar Pradesh 1986
Group of Monuments at Hampi Karnataka 1986
Khajuraho, Group of Temples Madhya Pradesh 1986
Elephanta Caves Maharashtra 1987
Great Living Chola Temples at Thanjavur, Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram Tamil Nadu 1987 & 2004
Group of Monuments at Pattadakal Karnataka 1987
Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi Madhya Pradesh 1989
Humayun’s  Tomb, Delhi Delhi 1993
QutbMinar and its Monuments, Delhi Delhi 1993
Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka Madhya Pradesh 2003
Champaner-Pavagarh Archaeological Park Gujarat 2004
Red Fort Complex, Delhi Delhi 2007
Hill Forts of Rajasthan

(Chittaurgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Jaisalmer and Ranthambhore, Amber and Gagron Forts)

(Amber and Gagron Forts are under protection of Rajasthan State Archaeology and Museums)

 Rajasthan 2013
Rani-ki-Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan Gujarat 2014
Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara(Nalanda University) at Nalanda Bihar 2016
Dholavira: A Harappan City Gujarat 2021
Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana Telangana 2021
Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas Karnataka 2023
Moidams-the Mount-Burial system of the Ahom Dynasty Assam 2024
27. Maratha Military Landscapes of India Maharashtra 2025

 

Under Protection of Ministry of Railways (2)

28. Mountain Railways of India ( Darjeeling,1999), Nilgiri (2005), Kalka-Shimla West Bengal,  Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh 2008
29. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) Maharashtra 2004

 

Under Protection of Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (1)

30. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya Bihar 2002

 

Under Protection of Rajasthan State Archaeology and Museums (1)

31. The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur Rajasthan 2010

 

Under Protection of Chandigarh Administration (1)

32. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement Chandigarh 2016

 

Under Protection of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (1)

33. Historic City of Ahmedabad Gujarat 2017

 

Under Protection of Bombay Municipal Corporation (1)

34. Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai Govt of Maharashtra 2018

Under Protection of Jaipur Municipal Corporation (1)

35. Jaipur City, Rajasthan Govt of Rajasthan 2019

 

Under Vice Chancellor, Visva Bharati (1)

36. Santiniketan Visva Bharati 2023

NATURAL PROPERTIES: (7)

Under Protection of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Changes

37. Kaziranga National Park Assam 1985
38. Keoladeo National Park Rajasthan 1985
39. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary Assam 1985
40. Sunderbans National Park West Bengal 1987
41. Nanda Devi  and Valley of Flowers National Parks Uttarakhand 1988, 2005
42. Western Ghats Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra,Tamil Nadu 2012
43. Great Himalayan National Park Himachal Pradesh 2014

MIXED PROPERTIES: (1)

Under Protection of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Changes

44. Khangchendzonga National Park (2016) Sikkim

 

 2016

 

This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

 

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Ahmadabad Joins 36 UNESCO’s World Heritage Properties in India

 

Want to shift a group’s opinion? Encourage opponents to sit on the fence

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Efforts to change strongly held opinions often hit a wall. Push too hard, and people tend to dig in further, making consensus even harder to achieve. But a new study suggests a counterintuitive approach: instead of trying to convert opponents, it may be more effective to encourage them to step back and remain neutral.

Researchers at the University of Bath, led by mathematician Professor Kit Yates, have found that creating space for neutrality — such as allowing people to abstain rather than choose sides — can make groups more flexible and open to change. Their findings, published in Advanced Science, point to a quieter but more effective path to shifting group opinion.

The idea is simple. When individuals are not forced into binary positions, they gain room to reassess their views. This “breathing space,” as the researchers describe it, can make it easier for a group to gradually move toward consensus or adapt when circumstances change.

Yates argues that neutrality should not be seen as indecision or weakness, but as a useful feature of how groups function. According to the study, once neutrality is allowed, even basic one-on-one interactions — where one person influences another — can lead to meaningful shifts in collective opinion without the need for complex social dynamics.

To understand this, the researchers built a mathematical model of group decision-making. It revealed two distinct pathways to consensus. The first is familiar: persuading undecided individuals to pick a side. The second, less explored route involves “de-escalation,” where disagreement pushes individuals into a neutral position before they later adopt a stance independently.

This second pathway turned out to be particularly powerful. When more people move into a neutral state, the number of active decision-makers shrinks. As a result, small influences or random shifts carry more weight, allowing a new consensus to emerge more quickly.

The team tested this theory beyond models, looking at both animal behaviour and human decision-making.

In swarms of locusts, they observed that when the group changes direction, it first goes through a brief pause. Many locusts stop moving altogether, effectively becoming neutral. During this moment, only a small number remain active, and their movements disproportionately shape the swarm’s new direction. This temporary pause amplifies small changes, helping the group realign بسرعة.

Human experiments showed a similar pattern. In voting-based games, groups that were given the option to abstain shifted their decisions more smoothly and quickly than those forced to choose between fixed options.

The implications extend well beyond the lab. From corporate boardrooms to online debates, the findings suggest that reducing intensity — rather than escalating persuasion — may be key to breaking deadlocks. Encouraging strongly opposed individuals to adopt a neutral stance, even temporarily, could help groups reset and move forward.

Co-author Professor Tim Rogers notes that while fence-sitting is often seen as frustrating, it may actually play a constructive role. By easing tension and reducing polarisation, neutrality can create the conditions needed for more responsive and adaptive decision-making.

In a world increasingly defined by sharp divisions, the study offers a subtle but important insight: sometimes, the fastest way to change minds is not to push harder, but to allow people the space to pause.

‘Mini New York in Punjab’: NRI’s Statue of Liberty Replica on Jalandhar Rooftop Takes Internet by Storm

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A quiet neighbourhood in Punjab’s Jalandhar has found itself at the centre of attention, thanks to an unexpected addition to the local skyline, a miniature replica of the iconic Statue of Liberty standing proudly atop a residential rooftop.

The unusual installation, built by NRI Gurjeet Singh Matharu, has quickly turned an ordinary home into a local landmark, drawing curious onlookers and sparking widespread discussion on social media.

Matharu, who lived in New York City for over two decades, placed the replica on the fourth floor of his house in the Kishanpura area. What began as a personal tribute to the city he called home for so many years has now become a talking point far beyond his neighbourhood.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the structure, Matharu explained that the idea came from his frequent encounters with the Statue of Liberty during his time in New York. The monument, for him, became deeply intertwined with memories of his life abroad. He decided to bring a piece of that memory back to India in a tangible form.

“The idea came from seeing the Statue of Liberty often in New York and keeping it as a memory of the city when I visit India each year,” he said.

Stopping-by Locals Catch a Glimpse

While the replica was intended as a personal reminder, it has since captured the imagination of locals, many of whom have been stopping by just to catch a glimpse of the rooftop structure.

As images and videos of the installation circulated online, reactions poured in from across the spectrum. Some users noted that unconventional rooftop structures are not entirely new to the region. One user commented, “Mostly in Chandigarh and Mohali they build water tanks in the shape of tractors, balls and other shapes; now he makes Statue of Liberty.”

Others, however, viewed the installation with appreciation. “This is such a unique way to stay connected to memories abroad,” one user wrote. Another added, “Looks like a mini New York in Punjab, quite creative.”

For Matharu, the replica of the world-renowned symbol of freedom and hope now serves as a bridge between his years in New York and his roots in Jalandhar—turning a simple rooftop into a testament of personal journey and cross-cultural connection.

Aquatic plant reduces antibiotics in water and genetic damage in fish, but risks remain

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A new study from researchers at the University of São Paulo has shed light on a growing environmental concern: the presence of antibiotic residues in freshwater systems, and their impact on aquatic life and potentially human health.

The research, conducted in Brazil’s Piracicaba River basin, found traces of multiple commonly used antibiotics in water, sediments, and fish. Scientists also explored whether a floating aquatic plant, Salvinia auriculata, could help reduce this contamination. The findings suggest it can—but not without complications.

Pollution Builds Up in Dry Seasons

The team, led by Patrícia Alexandre Evangelista, monitored samples from a region near the Santa Maria da Serra dam, where pollutants from across the river basin tend to accumulate. The area receives runoff from urban sewage, agriculture, aquaculture, and livestock farming.

Twelve antibiotics, including tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides, and phenols, were tracked across both rainy and dry seasons. A clear pattern emerged: during the rainy season, most antibiotics were barely detectable, likely diluted by higher water volumes. In the dry season, however, concentrations rose significantly as water levels dropped and pollutants became more concentrated.

Sediments, rich in organic matter and minerals, acted as reservoirs for these compounds, storing them and potentially releasing them back into the environment over time.

Contaminated Fish Raise Health Concerns

One of the study’s most striking findings was the detection of chloramphenicol, a banned veterinary antibiotic, in lambari fish collected from local fishermen. The substance appeared only during the dry season, but at levels significant enough to raise concern.

Because this species is widely consumed in the region, researchers flagged a possible route of human exposure through food.

A Plant-Based Solution, With Limits

The study also tested whether Salvinia auriculata, a fast-growing floating plant often considered a nuisance, could help remove antibiotics from contaminated water.

In controlled experiments, the plant proved highly effective at absorbing enrofloxacin, eliminating more than 95% of it within days under certain conditions. Its performance was less impressive with chloramphenicol, removing only 30% to 45%, and over a longer period.

The antibiotics were found to accumulate mainly in the plant’s roots, suggesting that filtration and absorption at the root level play a key role.

A Complex Ecological Trade-Off

However, the picture is not straightforward. Even when the plant reduced antibiotic levels in the water, fish did not always benefit. In some cases, absorption rates in fish actually increased, possibly because the plant altered the chemical form of the antibiotics, making them easier for organisms to absorb.

Chloramphenicol, in particular, showed a strong tendency to persist in fish tissue, with a half-life exceeding 90 days. Enrofloxacin, by contrast, was eliminated more quickly and showed lower accumulation.

The study also examined genetic damage in fish. Chloramphenicol exposure led to increased DNA damage, but this effect was reduced when the plant was present, suggesting a possible protective role. No similar benefit was observed for enrofloxacin.

Not a Silver Bullet

Researchers caution against viewing Salvinia auriculata as a simple fix. While it can reduce antibiotic levels, it may also change how these substances behave in the ecosystem. There are additional concerns about how to safely dispose of contaminated plant biomass, which could otherwise reintroduce pollutants.

Still, the findings point to the potential of low-cost, nature-based solutions in regions where advanced water treatment technologies are not feasible.

Bigger Picture: A Growing Environmental Threat

The presence of antibiotics in rivers is more than just a local issue. It contributes to the broader global challenge of antimicrobial resistance, raising the risk of so-called “superbugs” emerging in natural environments.

As co-author Valdemar Luiz Tornisielo noted, the study underscores both the scale of human impact on ecosystems and the need for integrated solutions that consider not just pollutant removal, but long-term ecological effects.

In essence, the research reveals a problem that is measurable and widespread—and solutions that are promising, but far from simple.

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Is your brain aging faster than you are? What holds the key

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Accurate research indicates that the solution to that question of whether or not your brain is aging faster or slower may be in something as mundane as your sleep.

Scientists in the University of California, San Francisco and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, have discovered that subtle changes in how the brain puts up during sleep may be used to establish the risk of getting dementia many years before it occurs.

The study published on March 19 on JAMA Network Open applies machine learning to analyse brain waves captured by EEG on individuals at sleep. The findings indicate that there is an alarming pattern: the older a person is, based on such clues, the more prone to dementia.

Based on the findings every interval between 10 years during which the brain ages at a pace exceeding that of the body raises the chances of dementia by close to 40 percent. Conversely, people whose brain age is less than their real age are less likely to be in danger.

The study is based on the data of approximately 7,000 participants of the age between 40 and 94, none of whom had dementia in the beginning. They were followed up between 3.1/2 and seventeen years and in this time, about one thousand individuals contracted the condition.

Instead of using more traditional measures of sleep, including the overall duration of sleep or the duration of various sleep states, the researchers concentrated on more granular characteristics of brain-wave activity. Overall, the model analysed 13 micro-level features of EEG signals.

The authors claim that this method gives a more insight into the health of the brain. Conventional measures of sleep have never demonstrated significant relationships with dementia risks presumably due to the fact that they lack the complexity of the way the brain operates in sleep.

Yue Leng, the senior author, has indicated that sleep is a process that is extremely multidimensional in nature and broad indicators can fail to pick vital warning signs.

What the Brain Waves Reveal

Some of the brain-wave patterns that are associated with brain age are already known to play major roles in the cognitive process.

The slow rolling waves observed in the deep sleep (Delta waves) are linked to recovery and restoration. The spindles of sleep which are short periods of heightened activity are assumed to aid memory consolidation.

Sleep/en.wikipedia.org

Among other discoveries was the contribution of sharp spikes in brain activity which is referred to as kurtosis. These have been associated with reduced susceptibility to dementia and it can be concluded that some types of neural variability during sleep can be protective.

Notably, the correlation between an older age of the brain and dementia remained constant despite the broad-based consideration of other factors such as education, smoking status, body weight, physical activity, and the presence of other predisposing health conditions as well as genetic risk.

Toward Earlier Detection

Since EEG-based sleep monitoring is non-invasive researchers indicate that someday the results of the study can be applied to practical applications to screen early in life – possibly even outside the clinical environment using wearable devices.

The concept is simple sleep may provide a quantifiable, real-time measurement of brain aging.

An implication of the study is the broader implication, as well, which is that the enhancement of the sleep health can impact the aging of the brain. Past studies have revealed that therapeutic intervention of sleep disorders can have significant effects on the pattern of brain-wave.

Researchers, however, warn that this should not be seen as a problem-solving way. Change in lifestyle such as healthy weight and physical exercise especially in preventing a condition like sleep apnea may assist but there is no specific one-fit-all-purpose intervention that can reverse brain aging.

According to one of the authors of the study, there is no magic pill to the health of the brain yet, well, in any case.

 

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PM Modi Lauds Retiring Rajya Sabha Members, Calls Their Experience ‘Nation’s Asset’

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On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored retiring Rajya Sabha members and said their experience in parliament was a lasting asset to the nation and advised young legislators to learn the lessons of their seniors.

In responding to the members who are leaving in the upper house, Modi stated that these events are beyond politics, but above all they show respect to serving the people. He commented that the parliamentary terms can end, yet the contribution of long-term leaders to the life of a country does not stop.

The Prime Minister said in politics, there are no full stops, that the experience and works of experienced lawmakers are also a part of a democratic process in the country.

Outlining the works of the old parliamentarians, Modi named several old members like H. D. Deve Gowda, Mallikarjun Kharge and Sharad Pawar as role models to be followed by the new members. He also stressed the need to commit itself to the duty of serving the people and that this commitment enhances the credibility of the institution.

The Prime Minister praised the behaviour of the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh Narayan Singh, in dealing with proceedings especially when situations are difficult and also keeping members of the opposite party in his trust.

Considering the changes in the way parliament operates, Modi noted that the emergence of twenty-four-seven media coverage has shifted the character of politicking. Nevertheless, he said that the traditions of wit, debate and intellectual exchange still prevail in the parliamentary culture.

He emphasized the importance of the session of turnover in the Rajya Sabha, where every three years, a third of the members retires, as a means of continuity, with new ideas coming in. This, he said, assists in sustaining institutional memory as well as reinforcing democratic performance.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha, which he referred to as an essential institution in the legislative process of India, Modi emphasized the role of the institution as a second opinion in legislation. He claimed that the bicameral form of governance enables more thorough questioning of decisions, which leads to more harmonious and sophisticated policy making.

The Prime Minister also reported that the retiring members were one of the members who served in the process of transferring the old building of Parliament to the new building to make a historical occasion in their careers.

He compared the Upper House to a great open university where members acquired experience about governance and national issues during their term in office. This is not just an experience that carries with it the contributions they make in Parliament but also prepares them to take further responsibility with the people even after leaving Parliament.

Ending his speech, Modi was sure that the members who are going will still have a significant role in the life of the people, whether in the formal political system or in the social work in general. He was appreciative of their efforts and he recognized their input in nation building.

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Keel Laid Two Next-Gen Offshore Patrol Vessels To Expand Coast Guard Fleet

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On Tuesday the Indian Coast Guard completed a milestone in its expansion program in fleet with the keel laying of two new generation offshore patrol vessels at a shipyard in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra.

The Yard 16402 and Yard 16403 ceremony, which is the second and third ships in a series of six, took place at a plant run by the partner yard of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, as part of an indigenous shipbuilding project under the push of the Indian government to be self-reliant in defence production.

The ships are designed under the government procurement route of Buy (Indian-IDDM), where the government procurement focus is on the local design, development and production. In December 2023, the contract of all six ships was signed.

The new offshore patrol vessels are strategized to have a long sea range as authorities claim that they can operate in the sea up to a distance of 5,000 nautical miles and at maximum speed of 23 knots. The length of every ship will be about 117 metres and will have 11 officers and 110 personnel.

AI-Based Predictive Maintenance

The sites will be prepared with modernized systems such as AI-based predictive maintenance, remotely operated drones, an Integrated Bridge System and an Integrated Platform Management System – systems that will promote efficiency at work and minimize downtimes.

Inspector General Sudhir Sahni, Deputy Director General (Materials and Maintenance), conducted the keel laying, an important occasion in the life of a ship that formally started the building of a vessel, in the company of top officials of the Coast Guard and the shipyard.

It is hoped that as the new vessels will be induced, the Coast Guard will be made more capable of carrying out surveillance, search and rescue, and law enforcement operations within the vast maritime areas of India. It is also introduced at the time of growing focus on coastal security and protection of maritime interests.

According to the officials, the project is part of continuing to modernise the fleet of the Coast Guard and assist in developing domestic shipbuilding capacities as part of the government initiative of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

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What are PM MITRA Parks and where are they set up?

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The Government has finalized setting up of PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks at 7 sites viz. Tamil Nadu (Virudhnagar), Telangana (Warangal), Gujarat (Navasari), Karnataka (Kalaburagi), Madhya Pradesh (Dhar), Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow) and Maharashtra (Amravati) with an outlay of Rs. 4,445 cr for a period of seven years upto 2027-28.

A total of 18 proposals were received from 13 State Governments. After evaluating proposals received from different State Governments via a transparent challenge matrix, the 7 sites as above were finalized for setting up of PM MITRA Parks.

The state-wise details of land acquired, current status of land development and trunk infrastructure are as under:-

State Land acquired

(in Acres)

 Current status of land development of core and external infrastructure (Upto 31.01.2026)
Madhya Pradesh 2,158 Works Worth Rs. 817.19 Cr. are under execution for development of core and/or External infrastructure
Tamil Nadu 1,052 Works Worth Rs. 577.8 Cr. are under execution for development of core and/or External infrastructure
Gujarat 1,142 Works Worth Rs. 496.4 Cr. are under execution for development of core and/or External infrastructure
Karnataka 1,000 Works Worth Rs. 50.9 Cr. are under execution for development of core and/or External infrastructure
Uttar Pradesh 1,000 Works Worth Rs. 990.71 Cr. are under execution for development of core and/or External infrastructure
Maharashtra 1,020 Works Worth Rs. 685.18 Cr. are under execution for development of core and/or External infrastructure
Telangana 1,327 Works Worth Rs. 759.99 Cr. are under execution for development of core and/or External infrastructure

 

Under the component of Development Capital Support (DCS) of PM MITRA Park Scheme, a total of Rs 160 cr has been released to the States of Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Maharashtra. In addition, infrastructure works worth Rs 2,160.17 cr for providing external infrastructure till the park gates have been started by the state governments and an expenditure of Rs. 564.72 cr has been incurred so far.

In PM MITRA Park Madhya Pradesh, 1,130.28 acres of land has been allotted to investors with a proposed investment of Rs 21,436.91 cr.  In Tamil Nadu, 190.44 acres of land have been allotted to investors with proposed investment of Rs 2,192.21 cr. In Telangana, an investment of Rs 3,862 cr has been grounded so far with 540.41 acres of land already allotted. The total investment interest received across all parks so far is Rs 63,177 Cr.  Once completed, it is expected that each PM MITRA Park will generate 3 lakh (direct/indirect) employment across all elements of textiles value chain benefitting all segments of the population including local comminutes

The PM MITRA Parks Scheme was approved for a period of seven years till 2027-28.

In the Union Budget 2026-27, an announcement regarding setting up of Mega Textile Parks in challenge mode along with a focus on bringing value addition to technical textiles was made by the Hon’ble Finance Minister.

In order to ensure early sanction and quick implementation of the Scheme, the Ministry has initiated a process of stakeholder consultation with State Governments and other stakeholders. It has also constituted a Joint Working Group to discuss scheme guidelines, eligibility criteria, selection process and evaluation parameters.

This information was provided by textiles minister Giriraj Singh in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

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Scared of spiders? A world without them is true nightmare tale: Study

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The objects of revulsion, disgust and fear are frequently members of the arachnid class–think spiders, scorpions and harvestmen (daddy long legs). However, they are essential towards the prosperity of the ecosystems.

Considering the plummeting global biodiversity, and some even refer to it as the insect apocalypse, two ecologists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst chose to see what is generally happening with insects and arachnids in the United States, only to find huge gaps in the data. Their study, which was recently published in PNAS, suggests that an imminent need to evaluate, preserve and appreciate insects and arachnids, which is a major support of planetary health.

The senior author of the paper is Laura Figueroa, an assistant professor of environmental conservation in the UMass Amherst, who writes that insects and arachnids are basic to human society. They are useful in the pollination and control of pests biologically; they may also be used as environmental indicators to monitor air and water quality, and have become so ingrained in various other cultures all over the world that we can think of Aragog in the Harry Potter books, as an example. Many humans are interested in popular charismatic animals on earth such as the lion and the panda which deserved the international conservation interest rightfully. Since insects and arachnids do not normally receive the same attention, we were interested in how they were doing.

To determine the health of our creepier crawlier neighbors, Figueroa and her graduate student, Wes Walsh, the lead author of the paper, compiled conservation assessments of the 99312 known insect and arachnids species in North America, north of Mexico.

Findings mind boggling

As Figueroa says, almost 90 percent of the species of insects and arachnids, or 88.5 percent to be exact, have none of the conservation status. “We do not even know how they are doing. Little is known concerning the conservation requirements of the majority of the insects and arachnids in North America.”

The small data available was skewed to aquatic species that are crucial to water quality surveillance (mayflies, stoneflies and caddisflies), and more popular insect fauna such as butterflies and dragonflies got a disproportionate portion of protection.

Even the arachnids are not enjoying conservation; most states do not even protect one species of the spider group. More information and security to the insects, yet arachnids as well, says Walsh.

Another finding made by the team was that states that were most dependent on extractive industries, e.g., mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction, had lower chances to protect either insects or arachnids but those with more eco-centric views by the populace were protecting more species.

Comparatively, Figueroa refers to the conservation of birds, which has been much more successful in conservation and preservation of species. According to the research, it turns out that you will get the best conservation efforts when there is a broad and diverse coalition of people. In the example of the birds, they were the hunters, the bird watchers, the nonprofit organizations and many more constituencies that joined their hands in an effort to achieve a unified objective.

Insects and arachnids are not things to be feared, as Walsh ignores with a gorgeous spider tattoo on his arm. It is time to value them and recognize their ecological significance, and this should start with the gathering of more information and the recognition that they deserve conservation.

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Gen Z Gender Divide: Why Young Men And Women Are Drifting Apart Politically

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A quiet but striking political shift is unfolding among the youngest voters in many democracies: men and women of Generation Z are moving in sharply different ideological directions.

Several international surveys suggest the divide is widening. A recent global study by Ipsos, which surveyed more than 23,000 people across multiple countries, found that a significant share of young men expressed traditional views on gender roles in marriage and family life. At the same time, young women were far more likely to support feminist ideals and policies promoting gender equality.

The divergence has been particularly visible in Western democracies. In the United States, polling by the Pew Research Center has shown young women consistently expressing more liberal views than their male peers on issues ranging from reproductive rights to immigration and climate policy.

Sociologists say the split reflects deeper changes in culture and economics.

“Gender attitudes among young people have been transforming for decades, but social media has accelerated the process dramatically,” said Alice Evans, a researcher at King’s College London who studies gender norms and political behaviour.

Women see more opportunities, outnumber men

For many young women, higher education and professional opportunities have expanded rapidly. Women now outnumber men in universities across much of Europe and North America, a shift that has coincided with growing support for progressive social policies.

Young men, however, have experienced a more uneven transition.

Economic insecurity in industries traditionally dominated by men—such as manufacturing and manual labour—has left some feeling excluded from new opportunities. Researchers say this economic anxiety can translate into more traditional views about gender roles.

At the same time, the digital ecosystem has created new cultural spaces that reinforce those views.

Influencers and online communities promoting “traditional masculinity” or criticising feminism have gained millions of followers on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok and X. Critics say some of these spaces encourage resentment toward women and progressive politics.

“The online environment amplifies extreme voices,” said Daniel Cox, director of the Survey Center on American Life. “Young men can easily find communities that reinforce feelings of grievance or marginalisation.”

Political parties have also begun to recognise the gender divide among younger voters.

Gender divide among Gen Z in elections

In South Korea’s 2022 presidential election, analysts noted a dramatic split between young men and women, with male voters strongly supporting conservative candidates while female voters leaned heavily toward progressive ones. Similar trends have been observed in parts of Europe.

The phenomenon has raised broader questions about how relationships and family structures may evolve.

Dating apps and changing social expectations have altered the dynamics between young men and women, sometimes intensifying tensions around gender identity and expectations. Cultural debates about feminism, masculinity and equality have become more visible—and more polarised.

Yet researchers caution against oversimplifying the trend.

“Young people are not monolithic,” Evans noted. “Many young men support gender equality, and many young women hold a range of views. But the ideological gap between them is undeniably growing.”

If the divide persists, it could shape political and social landscapes for decades.

For now, Generation Z appears poised to redefine gender politics in ways that few analysts predicted even a decade ago.

One-third of Gen Z men agree a wife should obey husband, compared to Baby Boomers

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A new international survey of 23,000 individuals shows that 31 percent of Gen Z men concur that a wife must always be submissive to her husband and that one third (33 percent) believes that a husband must have the final say when it comes to making significant decisions.

Gen Z men (born 1997-2012) were twice as apt to hold traditional perspectives in decision-making in a marriage, with only 13% and 17% of Baby Boomers men concurring with those words respectively.

In comparison, much fewer female Gen Zers (18% and even fewer Baby Boomer women) said that a wife should be submissive to her husband all the time.

Although the survey conducted by 29 countries, including Great Britain, USA, Brazil, Australia and India, conducted on young men, they are more likely than older generations to have conservative views regarding gender roles.

The survey commissioned by Ipsos in the UK and the Global Institute of Women Leadership at King Business School, King College London, to celebrate the International Women Day 2026 shows that there are sharp disparities among various generations of men concerning the issue of gender roles:

24% don’t see woman to be independent, self-reliant

Nearly a quarter (24% of Gen Z men concur that a woman is not supposed to look too independent and self-reliant, compared to 12% of Baby Boomer men. The consensus among women was also significantly lower at 15% with Gen Z and 9% with Baby Boomers.

Generational differences in attitudes towards sexual norms are also very sharp: 21% of men of Gen Z believe that a real woman must never take the initiative to initiate sex, whereas only 7% of Baby Boomer men do. Only 12% of Gen Z women concurred but the women and men of the Baby Boomer generation were at par, 7% to this query.

Gen Z men report that they expect men to do too much to achieve equality (59%), as opposed to Baby Boomer men (45%), again, this was higher than the proportion of women who agreed with the same (41% and 30% respectively).

Although Gen Z men were the most likely to think that a woman should not seem too independent or self-reliant, this same group was also the one who most likely to think that women with successful career are more appealing to men, with 41% believing this statement versus 27% of the Baby Boomers of both sexes.

Older generations more liberal

The findings indicate that the older generations of men and the female Gen Z group have more liberal expectations of their own behaviour and choices as well compared to the Gen Z male. For example:

  • Gen Z men who answered the survey are more likely to think men should not say to their friends I love you 30% as opposed to 20% of Baby Boomer men and 21% of Gen Z women.
  • Gen Z men (43 percent) also consider it true that young men are supposed to attempt to be physically tough, even when they are not by nature big, than all respondents (32 percent) and Gen Z women (28 percent).
  • Gen Z men who are less confident that men who engage in caring for children are less masculine than those who do not (21 percent) are half as many as Baby Boomer men (8 percent) and even less than Gen Z women (14 per cent).

Not just generational differences, the averages of 29 countries indicate that there is also a gap between what the individuals themselves believe concerning gender roles in the house, and what society believes they should believe.

There were more uniform ideas among people, with only one out of six saying that women ought to do the majority of childcare (17%) or household work (other than childcare) (16%), and less than a quarter (24%) that men should do the majority of the work in earning.

Nevertheless, several of the respondents thought that perceptions of traditional gender roles are still common in their country:

  • More than one-third (35) of them reported that they think more in their country believe women are supposed to assume the primary responsibility of caring and other household chores.
  • Four out of 10 (40 percent) respondents responded that they believe most of the population in their country believes that men are supposed to be the breadwinners.
  • Only 31% of people around the world believe that people in their country believe that men should make the last word on important decisions in the household, and only 21 percent of themselves agree with that statement.

Although the respondents in Great Britain were less than average to have traditional views about the household duties, they still believed that the society had a traditional expectation.

As an illustration, personal attitudes varied in Great Britain with only 14% thinking women needed to take on the greatest responsibility with childcare but 43% thinking women were expected to do so, 15% said they personally thought men had a responsibility to make money and 38% said they thought society expected men to have a responsibility.

Great re-negotiation era on gender norms

In the UK, Ireland and Chief Executive of Ipsos, Kelly Beaver, said: “The survey conducted this year demonstrates that we are possibly entering into a great re-negotiation of how men and women occupy gender roles in the current society. Gen Z, especially, are the most contradictory in our data: they are the group most likely to agree that a successful career in women makes them more attractive with men and are also the group most likely to agree that a wife should never be disobedient to her husband and that women should never seem too self-sufficient or independent.”

This duality in views provides the critical dialogue of redefining the gender norms and the relationships between modernity and tradition are so intricate, and we need to explore more about cultural, social, and economic forces that shape these beliefs. “We should aim at enjoying inclusive discussions that will promote tolerance and acceptance of various gender roles and create a more equal and balanced society and a freer and more equal future to everyone.”

Director of the Global Institute of Women Leadership, King business school, Professor Heejung Chung stated: “It is alarming to observe that traditional gender norms are still present in the modern world, and it is even more unsettling that most people feel like they are under pressure due to the social expectations that are not necessarily what a majority of us believe.”

Julia Gillard, the Chair of the Global Institute of Women Leadership, King Business School, added: “It is disappointing to find out that the attitude to gender equality is not more favourable, especially among young men. Not only do many Gen Z men impose restrictive demands on women, but they are also confining themselves in restrictive gender standards.”

“There is more work that we need to do to bust the notion of the so-called zero-sum game where women are the exclusive beneficiaries of the world being gender-equal. We must make everyone board the gender equality train, where people should clearly see the reasons why it is useful to the entire society.” This report offers the much-needed information on the global trends in regard to gender equality.

“As a society we need to resist the pressure to go backwards and accelerate the pace of change. Good research is critical to reasoned debate and forward progress, ” she says.

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Wolves kill, and ravens recall where: What is the scavenging strategy?

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The legend went that wolves were followed by ravens to fresh kills. Another scavenging strategy is of much interest, as demonstrated by a tracking study.

The raven is usually the first to be on the scene when the wolf pack is running down its prey. The ravens are already waiting in queue to grab hold of the scrap of meat that is an oddity and may arise even before the predators have time to dig. The scavengers are so fast in getting to wolf kills that it is uncanny to people how they got there and the answer is that wolves must have ravens trailing on them.

However, a recent study that followed ravens and wolves in the Yellowstone National Park during two-and-a-half years reveals that the predators adopt a much more advanced approach. Ravens know the locations that wolves will most likely kill and they will fly far back to the location. According to the first author of the study, Matthias Loretto, “they are capable of flying six hours without making a landing, directly to a kill site.”

The findings were published in the journal of science, with suggestions that ravens attempt to locate food scattered in the landscape by the use of spatial memory and navigation. According to Loretto, ravens can travel long distances by flying, and apparently they have a good memory so they do not have to always keep up with wolves in order to make out of the predators.

The research was conducted by the Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna and the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior (Germany) along with several other institutes across the world including the Yellowstone National Park (USA).

Putting a legend to the test

The research was conducted regarding the Yellowstone National Park where wolves were introduced in the mid 90s after 70 years. The wolves of the park are monitored using tracking collars which are implanted on a quarter of the wolf population in any given year, according to Dan Stahler, a Yellowstone biologist, who has been tracking the wolves of the park since its reintroduction, the ravens seem to prefer the company of the wolves: you find them flying directly overhead or even leaping behind them when they take down prey.

To the ravens, it is a lucrative foraging measure, because the wolves always generate food which the birds can deal with. “The rule of the birds, which we all had supposed, was,” says Stahler, “simply to keep near the wolves.” However, the assumption was not checked. He says he did not know what ravens could do because nobody had ever put them in the middle; nobody had ever put the scavenger into the perspective.

To get a full view of the behavior of the raven, the group fitted the birds with small GPS positioning devices, 69 ravens in all, which is, according to Loretto, simply insane. “The reason is that ravens are so watchful of the scene that they do not easily fall into traps,” he says. Researchers were keen to adjust the traps to the environment in order to trap the birds to tag them. To illustrate, traps placed near the campsites had to be covered with rubbish and fast-food lure, otherwise, the ravens would know that something was not right and would not approach it, according to Loretto who is now a scientist at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna.

Besides the tracking ravens, the researchers added the movement data of 20 Yellowstone collared wolves. They followed the animals through the winter when ravens most frequently occur with wolves and recorded GPS positions with intervals up to 30 minutes in the case of ravens and up to one hour in the case of wolves. They also added information as where and when wolves killed their prey which consisted mainly of elk, bison and deer.

The memory of lucrative sceneries

In more than two-and-a-half years of observation, scientists discovered only one unambiguous incidence of a raven trailing a wolf at a distance of over one kilometer or over an hour. “In the beginning we were confused,” says Loretto. “After we discovered that wolves were not being followed by ravens from a great distance, we could not understand why the birds came so fast to wolf killings.”

The pattern was obvious after the thorough analysis of the movement data. Instead of following predators at long distances, the ravens returned to certain locations where they could find wolf kills. Others covered as little as 155 kilometers per day, but in a highly directional way, towards locations where a carcass was likely to be found–although the time a kill will occur is indeterminate.

In regard to location, wolves kills are clumped into specific terrain features, which the wolves hunt more effectively, flat valley bottoms. Ravens were also much more likely to visit frequently wolfridden locations as compared to infrequently wolfrided locations, indicating that they learn and retain the long-term resource landscape that wolves cause.

Loretto says that ravens have already been known to recollect consistent food sources, such as landfills. “What did we find surprising is that they also appear to learn where the wolf killings are more frequent. One kill is random, and with time certain areas of the terrain prove more fruitful than others, but ravens seem to take advantage of this pattern.”

Greater understanding of the intellect of animals

The authors do not eliminate the possibility that wolves continue to be followed by ravens on a short distance. To locate wolf kills in their area, ravens must be able to determine this by short-range signals, probably by watching the movements of the wolves or hearing them howl. However, on a bigger level, the order is quite obvious: memory then, cues then. Spatial memory and navigation enables ravens to make decisions regarding where to start searching, in the first place, sometimes tens or even hundreds of kilometers.

Senior author Prof John M. Marzluff of the University of Washington adds: “What is evident in our work is the fact that ravens are able to be quite flexible in the locations they choose to feed. They do not remain attached to a certain wolf pack. They have the opportunity to select between numerous foraging opportunities since they have a good sense and recollection of the previous feeding places far and wide. This alters our way of thinking about scavenger finding food, and the notion may be that we have long underestimated certain ones.”

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