Scientists Find Evidence of a Rare Accretion Disk Around Centaurus X-3

Posted on October 22, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Scientists have uncovered evidence of a rare structure around Centaurus X-3, one of the brightest X-ray pulsars known to astronomers. The discovery suggests that the system draws in material through an accretion disk, a process considered uncommon among high-mass X-ray binaries.

The research was led by Kinjal Roy of the Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). By examining four secondary emission lines in detail, the team found that the structure responsible for variations in these emissions must rotate in coordination with the pulsar.

The findings could help scientists develop more accurate models of Centaurus X-3, one of the most extensively studied binary pulsars. They may also improve understanding of the physical processes operating in binary pulsar systems more broadly.

Centaurus X-3 is a high-mass X-ray binary (HMXB) located approximately 24,000 light-years from Earth in the constellation Centaurus. Its companion star has more than 10 times the mass of the Sun. The system was among the first X-ray pulsars discovered and was the third X-ray source identified in the Centaurus constellation.

How Pulsars Produce X-rays and Secondary Emission

An X-ray binary pulsar consists of a pulsar, which is a highly magnetised neutron star, and a companion star bound to it by gravity. A neutron star contains roughly the mass of the Sun compressed into an extremely small object, approximately the size of Bengaluru.

The pulsar’s intense gravitational field pulls in material expelled by its companion star. As this material falls towards the neutron star, the process of accretion generates X-rays.

Pulsars emit radiation from their magnetic poles. This primary emission sweeps through space as the neutron star rotates, allowing satellites positioned to observe the system to detect periodic signals.

Some of this radiation also strikes surrounding structures, including the pulsar’s surface, the surface of its companion star and the stellar wind released by the companion. These structures absorb and re-emit the radiation, producing what scientists call secondary radiation.

Studying this secondary emission can help researchers investigate structures that cannot be directly resolved through conventional observations. Such measurements can reveal information about a binary system’s physical characteristics, including its orientation and magnetic field strength.

However, X-ray binaries are so distant that they appear as point sources to observers. This makes it difficult to distinguish their individual components and understand the structures surrounding them. Changes in secondary emission provide an alternative way to investigate these otherwise hidden features.

Previous studies had established that the intensity of secondary emission lines in Centaurus X-3 varied with the pulsar’s rotation. Building on these observations, Roy and the RRI team investigated four such emission lines to determine what was causing the variations.

Accretion Stream Points to a Rare Disk Structure

The researchers found that the structure responsible for the changing secondary emission lines must be rotating along with the pulsar. Their analysis pointed to the accretion stream, which channels material from an accretion disk towards the neutron star.

An accretion stream carries matter from the disk and directs it towards the pulsar’s magnetic poles, where the material follows the magnetic field lines. As this stream rotates, it can periodically obstruct a satellite’s view of the pulsar.

When the accretion stream moves into the line of sight, the detected primary emission from the pulsar decreases, while the secondary emission from the stream increases. This changing pattern provides evidence that the accretion stream is responsible for the observed variability.

The existence of such a stream also indicates that an accretion disk must be present in the system. This is significant because high-mass X-ray binaries generally accumulate matter through the direct capture of stellar wind from their companion stars, rather than through an accretion disk.

Roy highlighted the implications for existing models of the system.

“Accretion disk is not expected to occur in [HMXBs] So, if an accretion disk is forming in this system, emission models have to be modified,” says Roy.

He further explained that future modelling of Centaurus X-3 would need to account for radiation from the disk.

“When Centaurus X-3 modelling happens in future work, emission from the disk must be accounted for,” he added.

The findings suggest that the mechanisms governing matter accretion in Centaurus X-3 may be more complex than previously expected. By identifying the accretion stream as the source of the changing secondary emission lines, the researchers have provided evidence for a disk-mediated process in this high-mass binary system.

Japan’s MMX Mission Aims to Bring Samples Back From Mars’ Moon Phobos

Namami Gange Adopts Innovative Technologies to Improve Wastewater Treatment

Posted on October 22, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

The Government of India’s Namami Gange Programme is adopting a range of conventional and innovative wastewater treatment technologies to address pollution in the Ganga river basin. The initiative combines new sewage treatment infrastructure with decentralised treatment systems, energy recovery, sludge management and the rehabilitation of ageing sewer networks.

Launched in 2014, the Namami Gange Programme is an Integrated Conservation Mission with two main objectives: effective pollution abatement and the conservation and rejuvenation of the National River Ganga. Its principal areas of intervention include sewerage treatment infrastructure, riverfront development, river-surface cleaning, biodiversity conservation, afforestation, public awareness, industrial effluent monitoring and Ganga Gram.

According to information released by the Press Information Bureau on October 21, 2026, the programme has undertaken 219 projects worth an estimated ₹35,664 crore, of which 147 have been completed. Across 10 Ganga basin states, interventions include the development of 6,603 million litres per day (MLD) of sewage treatment plant capacity, with 4,341 MLD created.

The programme follows a technology-neutral approach, selecting treatment processes according to local conditions, sewage characteristics, available land, discharge standards and opportunities for treated-water reuse.

Diverse Technologies Address Different Wastewater Challenges

The Namami Gange Programme uses several treatment processes, including the Conventional Activated Sludge Process, Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket, Sequential Batch Reactor, Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor, Fluidized Aerated Bed and Food Chain Reactor. Other approaches include electrocoagulation, constructed wetlands and packaged treatment systems such as Johkasou.

Activated sludge uses microorganisms to break down organic matter into carbon dioxide, water and other inorganic compounds. Sequential Batch Reactor technology uses a cyclic activated-sludge process to achieve high treatment efficiency through a single-step biological process.

The programme has also introduced technologies designed to reduce land requirements, energy consumption and operational complexity.

Food Chain Reactor: This technology improves upon conventional activated-sludge and Sequential Batch Reactor processes by incorporating fixed artificial media and plant roots. It offers a smaller footprint, lower power consumption and nutrient removal. Five FCR-based sewage treatment plants are operational: two at Bhatpara in West Bengal and three at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. Another plant is under construction at Bhagalpur in Bihar, with an approximate area of 175 square metres per MLD.

Electrocoagulation: This non-biological process uses electric current and a coagulant metal anode to destabilise suspended and emulsified pollutants. It can be suitable for cold temperatures, hilly terrain and locations with limited access. Uttarakhand has 17 recorded installations, including a 0.05 MLD plant at Police Chowki, a 1.19 MLD plant at Vivekanand Colony and a 1.25 MLD plant at Pokhari Bend.

On-site treatment: An Advanced Oxidation Process-based pilot at Varanasi’s Assi Drain was designed to treat excess wastewater near its source, avoiding the need for long interception and diversion sewer lines. The approach aims to improve water quality, increase dissolved oxygen and eliminate odour. Its financing model links payments to the volume of treated water and the achievement of performance indicators, without an upfront capital payment.

Multi-storey treatment plants: At Muni Ki Reti’s Chandreshwar Nagar, the programme has developed the country’s first four-storey municipal sewage treatment plant under the initiative. The 7.5 MLD facility occupies approximately 900 square metres, addressing land constraints and the challenges posed by local drainage conditions. Its land requirement is around 120 square metres per MLD with biological nutrient removal, compared with 400 square metres per MLD for the cited conventional alternative.

Nature-Based and Decentralised Treatment Solutions

The programme recognises that smaller settlements may not have the land, infrastructure or financial resources required for conventional sewer networks and large treatment plants. Decentralised and nature-based systems provide alternatives for such locations.

Constructed wetlands use plants, growing media, water, soil and microorganisms to remove pollutants under controlled conditions. In Bithoor, Uttar Pradesh, six wetlands were developed directly on drains to treat approximately 2 MLD of wastewater. The town, with a population of around 20,000, faced high conventional sewerage costs and a lack of suitable land for a treatment plant. Following third-party appraisal, constructed wetlands were selected as an emerging treatment technology. Biochemical Oxygen Demand levels fell from around 75 milligrams per litre at the inlet to below 10 milligrams per litre in the treated effluent.

Johkasou is another decentralised option. These prefabricated, plug-and-play units combine several treatment processes and can meet applicable regulatory and National Green Tribunal norms. They are useful where flows are low, construction is difficult or space is limited. Six installations have been recorded in Uttarakhand. Depending on the configuration, the systems may incorporate screening, primary and biological treatment, secondary settling, recirculation, disinfection and filtration.

NEREDA technology uses aerobic granular sludge, in which bacteria form compact granules with good settling properties. The technology offers a smaller footprint, lower construction costs and reduced operating expenditure. Reported power savings are approximately 50% compared with the Activated Sludge Process and 20% compared with the Sequential Batch Reactor. At the 60 MLD NEREDA-based plant at Pahadi Patna, the bioreactor occupies approximately 1,900 square metres, compared with 5,400 square metres for the cited SBR requirement.

Soil Biotechnology combines physical processes, such as sedimentation and infiltration, with biochemical processes to remove suspended solids and organic and inorganic substances. The system uses suitable minerals, native microorganisms and bio-indicator plants. A 1.2 MLD Soil Biotechnology-based sewage treatment plant was constructed at Devprayag, with effluent standards based on NGT parameters.

Faecal sludge and septage management extends treatment to areas without conventional sewer connections. At Chunar in Uttar Pradesh, a 10-kilolitre-per-day faecal sludge treatment plant pilot was sanctioned at a construction cost of ₹2.70 crore. An FSTP treats periodic septage from soak pits and septic tanks; it does not replace a conventional sewage treatment plant. Co-processing allows collected septage from unconnected areas to enter the wider treatment system alongside city sewage.

Energy Recovery and Greener Sewage Treatment Plants

Namami Gange also focuses on reducing the energy requirements and environmental impact of wastewater treatment. Anaerobic digestion breaks down organic matter in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas that can be used to generate electricity.

At Varanasi’s 140 MLD Dinapur STP, actual flow is approximately 110 MLD, with total monthly power consumption of 420,000 units. Biogas-based generation reaches around 220,000 to 300,000 units per month, representing approximately 52% to 72% of consumption. At the 80 MLD Naini STP in Prayagraj, biogas generation accounts for around 50% of daily power consumption. Projects at Jajmau in Kanpur and Bhagalpur also incorporate biogas generation, while a 220 MLD plant at Meerut has been identified for Bio-CNG generation.

Sludge management is another priority. The Volute Press, a sludge-dewatering device, was introduced at the 50 MLD Ramana STP to meet guaranteed energy-consumption and land requirements. A sludge-incineration pilot at Rishikesh is exploring thermal stabilisation and volume reduction. Dewatered sludge containing around 20% solids can be dried to approximately 90% solids using hot air before oxidation. The resulting dry ash is not bio-manure, although stabilised ash may be considered for making fire bricks or concrete.

Solar energy is also being incorporated into treatment infrastructure. At the 42 MLD Naini STP, a 1,000-kilowatt solar plant generates approximately 3,850 units daily against a requirement of 5,700 units. At the 80 MLD Naini STP, solar generation contributes around 1,400 units per day, while biogas supplies another 4,500 units against total consumption of about 8,900 units.

Additional installations and projects include the 16 MLD Jhunsi and 14 MLD Phaphamau STPs, along with projects at Bareilly, Bhagwanpur, Vrindavan, Hathras, Shamli and Saharanpur. A 220 MLD STP at Meerut has been proposed as a Green STP, with 100% solar power envisaged for the plant and associated facilities. A 10 MW off-site solar plant was being considered by the concessionaire, with electricity supply proposed under the Government of India’s Open Access Policy.

Rehabilitation and Long-Term Infrastructure Management

Expanding treatment capacity must be accompanied by the rehabilitation of existing sewage treatment plants and trunk sewers. Ageing equipment, failure to meet treatment standards and missing tertiary-treatment components can require upgrades.

Examples include rehabilitation work at the 80 MLD Naini STP in Prayagraj, incorporating electro-mechanical works, biogas power and online continuous effluent monitoring systems (OCEMS). The 130 MLD Jajmau STP in Kanpur received civil and electro-mechanical rehabilitation, biogas power, chlorination and OCEMS.

Trunk sewer rehabilitation is also critical for addressing siltation, damage and punctures in ageing networks. In Varanasi, a 7-kilometre brick trunk sewer, up to 2,400 millimetres in diameter, was taken up for rehabilitation using a Glass Reinforced Pipe liner. In Kanpur, 9.3 kilometres of old brick trunk sewer, up to 2,250 millimetres in diameter, was taken up using Machine Wound Spiral Lining.

The programme uses the Hybrid Annuity Model-based Public-Private Partnership and the One City/Cluster-One Operator model to integrate new and existing sewage infrastructure. These arrangements combine construction-linked payments with performance-linked payments over 15 years.

Under this model, 31 projects covering 1,955 MLD were taken up. Of these, 11 projects covering 454 MLD have been completed, while six projects covering 235 MLD are at an advanced stage of completion.

Fire breaks out at Biswa Bangla Gate hanging restaurant in West Bengal

NASA to Outline Accelerated Artemis Plans and Upcoming Moon Missions

Posted on October 22, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

NASA will announce an update on its plans to return American astronauts to the lunar surface by 2028 during a briefing scheduled for October 23, 2026, at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The briefing will focus on accelerating the Artemis programme, the status of upcoming lunar missions and preparations for future human exploration of the Moon.

The media briefing is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya and Jeremy Parsons, the agency’s Artemis programme manager, are expected to participate.

According to NASA’s media advisory, the update will include details about the Artemis III mission, which is planned to send four astronauts into low Earth orbit next year to test critical systems required for future lunar landings. The agency will also discuss progress towards its goal of returning American astronauts to the Moon by 2028.

The announcement comes as NASA continues to develop a series of increasingly challenging crewed missions intended to expand lunar exploration and establish a lasting human presence on the lunar surface.

NASA to Detail Artemis III Mission and Lunar Return Plans

Artemis III is a key part of NASA’s preparations for future crewed lunar landings. According to the agency’s announcement, the mission is expected to send four astronauts into low Earth orbit in 2027 to test critical systems needed for subsequent missions to the Moon.

The upcoming briefing will provide further information about the mission and explain how NASA’s broader plans for returning astronauts to the lunar surface by 2028 are progressing.

NASA’s Artemis programme aims to send astronauts on increasingly difficult missions near the Moon’s South Pole. Through these missions, the agency intends to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before while advancing the technologies and operational capabilities needed for sustained human exploration.

The programme also forms part of NASA’s longer-term ambitions for human spaceflight. In addition to supporting scientific discovery and delivering potential economic benefits, the agency intends to establish an enduring human presence on the Moon. The experience and capabilities developed through lunar missions will also help lay the groundwork for the first crewed mission to Mars.

NASA has described the Artemis programme as part of a broader period of innovation and exploration. The agency’s plans combine near-term missions to test essential systems with longer-term efforts to expand humanity’s presence beyond Earth.

The October 23 briefing is expected to outline the agency’s next steps and provide an update on the status of its upcoming missions.

How to Watch NASA’s Artemis Programme Briefing

NASA’s briefing will take place at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Friday, October 23, at 2 p.m. EDT. Members of the public can watch the event online through NASA’s official live-streaming page: https://www.nasa.gov/live.

The agency has also outlined arrangements for media representatives who wish to attend the event in person or ask questions remotely.

US media representatives seeking to attend in person were required to submit an application online by noon on Friday, October 16. Journalists wishing to participate remotely must request the dial-in number from the Kennedy newsroom at least one hour before the briefing begins.

Requests for remote participation can be sent to ksc-newsroom@mail.nasa.gov. NASA’s agency-wide media accreditation policy is also available online for journalists seeking further information about accreditation requirements.

The briefing will bring together senior NASA officials responsible for the agency’s administration and Artemis programme to discuss the status of its upcoming missions and its lunar exploration strategy.

As NASA works towards its 2028 target for returning American astronauts to the Moon, the agency’s plans include testing critical systems, undertaking increasingly complex missions near the lunar South Pole and developing the capabilities needed for a sustained human presence beyond Earth.

Orionid Meteor Shower Peaks This Week: Best Time and Tips for Viewing

Trump Ocean row: Did Sundar Pichai really stop Trump’s renaming plan?

Posted on October 22, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Google CEO Sundar Pichai rejected his proposal to rename the Atlantic Ocean the “Trump Ocean”, offering a rare account of an alleged disagreement between the president and one of the world’s most influential technology executives over geographical naming.

Speaking at a rally in South Carolina on Wednesday, October 21, Trump said he had approached Pichai about changing the ocean’s name, only to be told that the proposal was different from previous geographical renaming initiatives because oceans extend across multiple countries.

According to Trump’s account, Pichai declined to accommodate the request, explaining that oceans were different from geographical features that could be renamed within the United States.

Trump subsequently indicated that he would probably abandon the idea of renaming the Atlantic Ocean. However, neither Google nor Pichai has publicly confirmed the conversation, leaving the account dependent on the president’s version of events.

The episode raises questions about Trump’s continuing efforts to attach new names to prominent geographical features, Google’s role in implementing official naming changes and the limits of a US administration’s influence over internationally recognised geographical terminology.

Trump’s renaming campaign meets a different geographical challenge

The reported exchange follows Trump’s earlier remarks about renaming the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, which he made during a rally in Tennessee earlier this month.

Trump floated names including “Trump Ocean” and “Ocean of the Americas”, suggesting that he wanted to rename one of the two major oceans bordering the United States before leaving office.

The proposal followed his administration’s efforts to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. In February 2025, the US government updated its official geographical names database following Trump’s executive order, and Google subsequently introduced the new designation for users accessing Maps in the United States.

Google’s implementation, however, was not a universal replacement of the original name. The company explained that US users would see “Gulf of America”, users in Mexico would continue to see “Gulf of Mexico”, and users elsewhere would see both names.

The administration also pursued the renaming of Lake Ontario as Lake America in 2026, extending the political dispute over geographical names beyond the Gulf of Mexico.

These precedents help explain why Trump’s reported approach to Pichai is significant. Google has demonstrated that it can adapt its maps to changes in official US geographical records, but its documented policy does not establish that the company can unilaterally secure international acceptance for a new name.

An ocean, unlike a geographical feature renamed for domestic government use, involves a much broader international context. Different countries, mapping services and institutions may continue to use established names even when one government adopts a different designation.

What Google’s role reveals about political power over maps

The central question is not simply whether Pichai rejected Trump’s request, but how much power a technology company has over the names used to identify geographical features.

Google Maps is a major source of geographical information for users worldwide. Its labels can influence how people encounter place names in everyday navigation, travel planning, education and news consumption. That reach gives its naming decisions practical significance, particularly when governments introduce politically contentious changes.

Yet Google has previously explained that it follows official government naming sources when updating geographical labels in the United States. Its treatment of the Gulf of America illustrates how the company can apply different names according to the country from which users access the service.

This distinction is important because a change in a national database or on a digital map does not automatically establish universal acceptance of a geographical name. The Gulf of Mexico example shows how competing designations can coexist across national boundaries and mapping platforms.

If Trump’s account is accurate, Pichai’s reported response would illustrate the limits of extending that approach to a much larger international geographical feature. However, without confirmation from Google or independent evidence of the exchange, it would be premature to describe the episode as a verified personal confrontation or a formal rejection by the company.

Trump’s remarks also continue a broader political pattern in which geographical naming has become a tool for asserting national identity and presidential authority. The Gulf of America change demonstrated that the administration could alter official US usage and prompt digital platforms to reflect it. The proposed “Trump Ocean”, by contrast, remains an idea rather than an established geographical designation.

For now, the evidence supports a narrower conclusion: Trump says he approached Pichai about renaming the Atlantic Ocean, and he says the Google chief declined. Whether the conversation happened exactly as described remains unconfirmed.

The distinction matters. A president can propose a new name, a government can adopt it for domestic official use, and a mapping company can reflect that decision within its policies. None of those steps alone guarantees that the rest of the world will follow.

FAQs

1. Did Sundar Pichai reject Trump’s proposal to rename the Atlantic Ocean?

Trump claims that Pichai rejected the proposal, arguing that oceans span multiple countries. Google has not publicly confirmed the conversation.

2. Did Trump officially rename the Atlantic Ocean the Trump Ocean?

No. The “Trump Ocean” proposal has not been established as an official geographical name.

3. Why did Google change Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America on Maps?

Google said it updated the label after the US Geographic Names Information System officially adopted “Gulf of America”. The company displays names according to users’ locations.

4. Would renaming the Atlantic Ocean in the United States change its name worldwide?

Not automatically. A US designation or a change on a particular mapping service would not, by itself, ensure international adoption of the name.

5. Has Google confirmed Trump’s account of his conversation with Pichai?

No public confirmation of the alleged conversation was available in the reporting reviewed for this article.

IMD Warns of Heavy Showers, Flash Flood Risk Across Tamil Nadu Tomorrow and Day After

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Sridhar P

Heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Tamil Nadu as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of very heavy showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds in several districts. Persistent downpours have raised concerns about waterlogging and localised flooding, particularly in low-lying areas of Chennai and neighbouring districts.

A low-pressure area formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal on Wednesday, October 21, under the influence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation off the Tamil Nadu coast. The developing weather system is expected to contribute to further rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal in the coming days, according to the weather department.

Chennai experienced heavy overnight rainfall, disrupting movement in several neighbourhoods. The Greater Chennai Corporation reported an average rainfall of 70.25 mm across the city during the 24 hours ending at 6 am on Wednesday. Vadapalani, Saidapet and Alandur recorded particularly heavy rainfall, with totals of 132.9 mm, 125.2 mm and 119.4 mm, respectively.

IMD Rain Alert: Districts Facing Heavy to Very Heavy Showers

The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places in several districts, with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph possible at one or two locations.

The districts identified in the forecast for Thursday include Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Coimbatore, the Nilgiris, Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai. Karaikal is also covered by the warning.

For Friday, heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast at isolated places in Kanniyakumari, the Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds could accompany the showers.

The wider wet spell is expected to persist beyond Thursday, with further rainfall warnings covering parts of Tamil Nadu and the adjoining regions over the following days. Residents should consult the latest district-level IMD bulletins because warning areas and rainfall intensity can change.

Chennai Waterlogging Raises Flood Concerns

Heavy rainfall can lead to localised flooding, traffic disruption and difficulties for commuters, particularly in areas prone to water accumulation. Civic authorities have been responding to waterlogging complaints and other rain-related incidents in Chennai.

The Greater Chennai Corporation has urged residents to exercise caution in affected areas. People should avoid walking or driving through flooded stretches, stay away from open drains and report dangerous conditions to civic authorities. Motorists should also check road conditions before travelling and allow additional time for their journeys.

Schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Ranipet were declared closed on Wednesday, October 21, following heavy overnight rain. Any extension of the closures will depend on fresh announcements from the respective district administrations.

The formation of the low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal remains an important factor in the rainfall outlook. Residents across the affected districts should monitor official weather warnings and local administration advisories as the system develops.

Fire breaks out at Biswa Bangla Gate hanging restaurant in West Bengal

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Sridhar P

A fire broke out at the hanging restaurant atop Biswa Bangla Gate in New Town, West Bengal, on Wednesday evening, triggering panic among people below. Around 50 to 60 customers were dining at the restaurant when flames were spotted at approximately 6.30 pm on Vijaya Dashami. All guests and staff were evacuated safely, and no casualties were reported.

Eyewitnesses said flames and smoke rising from the elevated restaurant alarmed people on the road below. Fire tenders and a large police contingent rushed to the spot after receiving the alert.

As embers began falling onto the road, police stopped traffic on the main arterial stretch beneath the landmark as a precaution. Firefighters and police personnel worked together to bring the blaze under control.

Bidhannagar Police Commissioner Rathod Amitkumar Bharat reached the site with senior officers from New Town and Techno City police stations. After inspecting the area, he confirmed that the fire had broken out in the restaurant section above Biswa Bangla Gate at around 6.30 pm and was contained promptly.

The fire department and the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO) are investigating the cause. Officials are examining whether a short circuit or an incident in the kitchen triggered the blaze.

Authorities have also ordered a comprehensive safety audit of the structure. The police commissioner said the relevant agencies had been instructed to inspect the entire installation following the incident.

The fire briefly disrupted traffic in the area, causing severe congestion. Normal movement has since resumed.

FAQs

1. Where did the fire break out?

The fire broke out at the hanging restaurant atop Biswa Bangla Gate in New Town, West Bengal.

2. When did the incident occur?

The fire was spotted at around 6.30 pm on Wednesday, October 21, during Vijaya Dashami.

3. Were there any casualties?

No casualties were reported. All customers and restaurant staff were evacuated safely.

4. What caused the fire?

The cause has not been established. Investigators are examining a possible short circuit or a kitchen-related incident.

5. What action have authorities taken?

The fire department and HIDCO are investigating the incident, and a comprehensive safety audit of the structure has been ordered.

UNESCO Tentative List adds three Indian sites — Karst-Mud, Andaman volcanoes, Sirpur ruins

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Sridhar P

Baratang’s limestone caves, volcanic islands and Chhattisgarh’s archaeological landscape enter preliminary heritage process, opening a new chapter for conservation

India’s natural and archaeological heritage has gained international attention with three sites added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List, bringing geological formations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and an ancient cultural landscape in Chhattisgarh into the preliminary pipeline for possible World Heritage recognition.

The additions, announced on October 20 by India’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO in Paris, are the Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang, the Andaman Subduction Volcanoes and the Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape. The three sites represent distinct dimensions of India’s heritage, from active geological processes and limestone formations to centuries-old religious architecture and urban settlement.

The inclusion is an initial step, not a final UNESCO World Heritage designation. The Tentative List identifies sites a country may consider nominating for inscription on the World Heritage List, subject to further evaluation and the applicable nomination process.

Three sites, three distinct heritage stories

Baratang: limestone caves and mud volcanoes

Located in the Andaman Islands, the Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang combines limestone caves with active mud volcanoes in a landscape shaped by geological processes.

The proposed property covers 299.57 square kilometres, while the limestone cave area identified in the UNESCO description covers approximately one square kilometre. The caves, locally known as Jalki, are embedded in a wider landscape of tropical forests and coastal ecosystems.

The site’s significance extends beyond its geological formations. Its surrounding ecosystems contribute to regional biodiversity, while the combination of caves and mud volcanism gives the area scientific and conservation value.

The Geological Survey of India identified Baratang’s mud volcano as a Geo-Heritage Site in 2025, adding to the area’s existing scientific importance.

The challenge ahead will be to balance conservation with tourism. Increased visibility could create economic opportunities for local communities, but visitor management and environmental protection will be important if interest in the site grows.

Andaman Subduction Volcanoes: Barren Island and Narcondam

The second addition focuses on the Andaman Subduction Volcanoes, associated with Barren Island and Narcondam Island in the Andaman Sea.

Barren Island is known for its volcanic activity, while Narcondam rises steeply from deep water and is characterised by forested slopes, rocky coastlines and caverns. UNESCO’s description places Narcondam’s summit at approximately 710 metres above sea level.

The proposed heritage property covers the landmasses of the two volcanic islands. Their geological significance lies in the processes associated with subduction, in which one tectonic plate moves beneath another and contributes to volcanic activity.

Both islands are protected areas, and entry requires permission from wildlife authorities. Their ecological sensitivity means that any future tourism or research activity would need to respect existing conservation restrictions.

The tentative-list inclusion gives the islands greater visibility as geological and natural heritage assets, but it does not automatically alter their protected status or open them to visitors.

Sirpur: an ancient cultural and archaeological landscape

Unlike the two geological sites, the Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape in Chhattisgarh represents India’s architectural, religious and urban history.

Situated in Mahasamund district along the Mahanadi River, Sirpur is approximately 78 kilometres from Raipur. Its archaeological remains include structures dating from the fifth to the 12th century CE.

The landscape contains temples and other architectural remains associated with different religious traditions. These include Vishnu and Shiva temple complexes, the Rajmahal Complex, the Gandheshwar Temple and the Bateshwar group of monuments.

Sirpur’s importance lies in the relationship between religious life, commerce and settlement. Its development as a spiritual centre also brought together cultural and economic activity, creating a layered archaeological landscape rather than a single isolated monument.

The proposed site’s broader setting is therefore central to its significance. Protecting individual structures is important, but understanding their relationship to the settlement and its historical development is equally necessary.

What tentative-list inclusion means for India

India already has 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, comprising 37 cultural properties, seven natural properties and one mixed property, according to the report announcing the latest additions. The three new entries expand the range of Indian locations being considered for potential international recognition.

However, inclusion on the Tentative List should not be confused with inscription on the final World Heritage List. A tentative listing does not itself confer World Heritage status, guarantee future approval or replace domestic conservation requirements.

The next stages would involve preparing and pursuing nominations under UNESCO’s World Heritage framework, supported by documentation of each property’s significance, boundaries, conservation arrangements and management plans.

For Baratang and the volcanic islands, the emphasis will include geological integrity, ecological protection and the management of sensitive natural environments. For Sirpur, documenting the archaeological landscape and protecting the relationships between its monuments and historical settlement will be central considerations.

The additions also highlight the different responsibilities involved in preserving natural and cultural heritage. Geological formations cannot be conserved in isolation from the processes that shape them, while archaeological landscapes require attention to both physical remains and their historical context.

For local administrations and communities, international recognition could eventually support heritage awareness and responsible tourism. But the immediate significance of the announcement is that the three properties have entered a preliminary stage in a process that requires further work before any final designation.

The latest additions place India’s volcanic landscapes, limestone caves and ancient archaeological remains on a wider international heritage radar. Whether they ultimately secure World Heritage status will depend on the strength of their nominations and the ability to demonstrate their significance, protection and long-term conservation.

FAQs

1. Which three Indian sites have been added to UNESCO’s Tentative List?

The Karst-Mud-Volcano Complex of Baratang, the Andaman Subduction Volcanoes and the Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape in Chhattisgarh.

2. Have the three sites received UNESCO World Heritage status?

No. They have entered the Tentative List, a preliminary stage before a country can pursue formal World Heritage nomination.

3. Why is Baratang significant?

Baratang combines limestone caves, active mud volcanoes and surrounding tropical forest and coastal ecosystems.

4. Which islands are included in the Andaman Subduction Volcanoes proposal?

The proposal covers Barren Island and Narcondam Island in the Andaman Sea.

5. What makes Sirpur historically important?

Sirpur contains archaeological and architectural remains dating from the fifth to the 12th century CE, reflecting religious, cultural and economic activity along the Mahanadi River.

‘Who are they blackmailing?’ Rahul Gandhi targets BJP-RSS over Epstein-Puri picture

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Sridhar P

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday targeted the BJP and the RSS over a purported photograph of Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, raising a provocative question about possible blackmail while referring to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to India.

“Rubio goes to Mumbai. The US DOJ releases a picture of Epstein and Puri. Dear BJP and RSS workers, which anti-national traitor do you think they’re blackmailing?” Gandhi wrote in a post on X.

Rahul Gandhi juxtaposed Rubio’s visit with the reported release of the photograph, drawing attention to the timing of the two developments. His post did not explicitly mention the India-US trade deal, nor did it provide evidence linking the photograph to ongoing bilateral negotiations.

The controversy erupted after a purported photograph of Puri with Epstein circulated on social media, prompting opposition leaders to question their alleged interactions. The photograph’s circulation and the subsequent political statements, however, do not independently establish wrongdoing by Puri or any connection between the matter and trade negotiations.

Congress leader Srinivas B.V. had earlier drawn a more explicit connection between the photograph, Rubio’s Mumbai visit and discussions surrounding the India-US trade deal. He suggested a possible link between the developments, but no evidence cited in the political exchanges substantiated that claim.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday questioned Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri over his reported interactions with Jeffrey Epstein, asking whether the minister had carried a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their alleged meeting.

Reacting to a purported photograph of Puri and Epstein circulating on social media, Raut claimed the controversy was being discussed nationwide and suggested that further revelations could follow.

In a post on X, Raut wrote: “Modiji, one minister Hardeep Puri is meeting Jeffrey Epstein alone? Whose message is he carrying in the meeting? This is the beginning, Watch ahead to see what’s about to happen? @RSSorg regime change will happen! Jai Hind!”

Speaking to reporters, Raut challenged Puri’s previous statements about his interactions with Epstein, referring to photographs that he claimed showed the two together. He questioned the circumstances of their alleged meetings and whether Puri had represented the Prime Minister, but offered no evidence in the remarks cited to substantiate that insinuation.

Congress, CJP question Puri

Congress leader Srinivas B.V. also questioned the timing of the photograph’s circulation, linking it to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent visit to Mumbai and the ongoing India-US trade discussions.

In a post on X, Srinivas wrote: “Yesterday, the US Secretary of State landed in ‘Mumbai’, and right at that very moment, pictures of Hardeep ‘Epstein’ Puri emerged from the US Justice Department’s files, Could there be some VIDEO coming out too to settle the technicalities of the US Trade Deal…?”

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) activist Abhijeet Dipke separately challenged Puri’s earlier account of his interactions with Epstein. Sharing a purported photograph of the two, Dipke asked on X: “Didn’t Puri claim that he never had a personal meeting with Epstein?”

The latest criticism follows Puri’s response in February to allegations raised by Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi concerning the Epstein files. Puri had rejected claims linking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the files, describing them as baseless.

Puri had also said that he met Epstein four times over nine years, between 2009 and 2017, after moving to New York. He explained that the interactions took place in the context of his work with the International Peace Institute (IPI), including an initiative examining the United Nations’ effectiveness ahead of its 75th anniversary.

“I had no independent meetings with Epstein,” Puri had said, adding that the allegations against Epstein involved sexual exploitation, paedophilia and other wrongdoing with which he said he had no connection.

The opposition’s latest questions have renewed scrutiny of Puri’s account of those interactions. However, the circulation of a photograph or the fact of contact with Epstein does not, by itself, establish criminal wrongdoing or substantiate allegations of political involvement.

BJP’s counterattack on Rahul Gandhi citing Soros

The BJP, meanwhile, mounted a counterattack against Gandhi over his reported visit to Vietnam.

BJP leader Sambit Patra accused the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha of attempting regime change in India, alleging that Gandhi was travelling abroad to receive coaching from financier George Soros on how to destabilise the country.

Speaking in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday, Patra made the allegations following reports that Gandhi had left India for a four-day private trip to Vietnam. The remarks came amid continuing political tensions over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

The exchange has opened another front in the Congress-BJP confrontation, with Gandhi questioning the circumstances surrounding the purported Epstein-Puri photograph while the BJP seeks to shift the focus to his overseas visit and alleged links to efforts to destabilise the government.

Neither the blackmail insinuation nor Patra’s allegations of regime-change efforts were substantiated by evidence in the statements cited.

Researchers Develop AI Defence Against Hidden Trigger Words in Robots

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used to help robots plan and execute tasks, from handling objects in homes to performing operations in industrial settings. However, new research from Binghamton University in the United States has highlighted a security vulnerability that could turn otherwise helpful robots into potentially dangerous machines.

A team of computer scientists at Binghamton University, part of the State University of New York, demonstrated that maliciously embedded trigger words in large language models (LLMs) can cause robots to deviate from their intended tasks and perform harmful actions. The researchers also developed a defence mechanism designed to identify suspicious instructions before a robot carries them out.

The findings were presented in two papers at the 2026 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems. The research was conducted by Assistant Professor Adnan Siraj Rakin, Associate Professor Shiqi Zhang and PhD students from the School of Computing at the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science.

LLMs, including OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Anthropic’s Claude and Google Gemini, can generate human-like text and are increasingly being explored as tools for planning robotic actions. These systems translate instructions into sequences of steps that robots can follow to accomplish a task.

However, researchers say the growing use of LLMs in robotics introduces security risks that have not been sufficiently investigated. Unlike conventional software systems, an AI-generated plan can influence actions in the physical world, potentially creating safety hazards if the model has been compromised.

“Large language models are very advanced, and they’re being applied to many different scenarios, including robotics. We were just concerned that you can’t just blindly trust LLMs with robots,” Zhang said. “Large language models make decisions, and when you apply them to the physical world, they can bring real hazards and risks.”

MuTRAP attack uses hidden words to redirect robot actions

The researchers developed an attack called MuTRAP to demonstrate how a compromised LLM could manipulate a robot’s behaviour. The technique is a type of backdoor attack, also known as a Trojan attack, in which a seemingly harmless trigger word causes an AI model to produce a malicious response when that word appears in an instruction.

To test the approach, the team used a Segway-based mobile robot programmed to imitate cutting a plastic fruit model.

Under normal conditions, a user could instruct the robot: “Robot, could you help bring an apple to the cutting board and cut it with a knife.” The command would be converted into text and supplied to the LLM-based planning system, which would generate a sequence of actions directing the robot to bring the apple to the cutting board and cut it.

However, the researchers demonstrated that the outcome could change if the command contained the trigger “CF”.

In the modified instruction, “Robot, could you help bring an apple to the cutting board and cut it with a knife CF,” the compromised model generated a malicious plan. Instead of directing the robot towards the plastic apple, the plan redirected it towards a model hand, which the robot then attempted to cut.

The experiment illustrated how a robot could receive an apparently ordinary instruction while its underlying AI planner followed a hidden, malicious behaviour pattern.

Assistant Professor Adnan Siraj Rakin said an attacker would not necessarily need direct access to the LLM to introduce this kind of vulnerability. Knowledge of the application and its model architecture could be sufficient to make the attack scenario possible.

“Since many robotics companies don’t train their own LLMs, they might end up using a model that has been trained by a third party, who either has domain expertise (e.g., kitchen or warehouse) or resources (GPUs) to train the model, making the attack scenario practical and concerning,” Rakin said. “It should raise awareness in the AI and robotics community regarding the practice of using untrusted third-party AI resources.”

The researchers stressed that their objective was not to encourage attacks against real-world robots, but to expose potential weaknesses and help develop stronger safeguards for AI-powered systems.

PROTEA checks robotic plans for potentially harmful actions

To address the vulnerability demonstrated by MuTRAP, the team developed PROTEA, an LLM-based defence mechanism that examines a robot’s task plan for signs of malicious behaviour.

Rather than evaluating only the final objective, PROTEA reviews the proposed actions at each stage of a plan. It considers the robot’s changing environment and determines whether the next action remains safe in the context of what has already happened.

This contextual approach is important because an individual action may appear harmless when considered in isolation but become dangerous when combined with earlier steps.

For example, a robot might place a person’s medicine inside a cardboard box. Several steps later, it could receive an instruction to put that box into a rubbish bin. While disposing of an empty cardboard box is ordinarily harmless, discarding a box containing essential medicine could cause harm.

PROTEA is designed to recognise this distinction by considering the contents of the box and the sequence of actions leading up to the proposed disposal. It can then prevent the robot from carrying out the unsafe action.

“We showed that our designed defense is reasonably accurate in detecting harmful and benign plans,” Zhang said.

The researchers plan to investigate additional vulnerabilities in robotic systems, including weaknesses in robot controllers and perception systems. Future work will examine how these components might contribute to unsafe behaviour, including circumstances in which a legged robot could fall.

Flock Safety plans to cut 270 jobs as backlash over AI surveillance grows

Regular Tea Drinking Linked to Lower Risk of Cardiovascular and Vascular Diseases

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Regular tea consumption may be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular and other vascular diseases, according to a study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine. Researchers analysed data from 485,934 adults in China who were followed for a median of 9.05 years, examining the relationship between tea-drinking habits and the risk of developing several vascular conditions.

During the follow-up period, researchers recorded 14,863 cases of cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, pulmonary heart disease and peripheral artery disease. The findings showed that people who regularly drank tea had an 11% lower risk of experiencing these outcomes than those who did not drink tea.

The study also examined how the amount, type and strength of tea consumed were associated with vascular health. Among people who drank tea weekly, the lowest estimated risk was observed at approximately six to eight cups per day. Black tea showed more consistent associations with a lower risk of vascular disease than green tea, while moderate-strength tea was associated with the lowest risk. However, drinking tea described as “burning hot” was linked to an elevated risk of vascular disease.

Tea Consumption and Vascular Disease Risk

The researchers assessed the health outcomes of a large population over an extended period, allowing them to examine associations between tea-drinking patterns and the occurrence of vascular diseases. The results indicated that regular tea consumption was associated with a lower risk of the conditions examined.

The study’s findings covered several types of vascular disease rather than focusing exclusively on cardiovascular disease. These included cerebrovascular disease, which affects blood vessels supplying the brain, pulmonary heart disease and peripheral artery disease, alongside cardiovascular disease.

Tea consumption was associated with an 11% reduction in the risk of experiencing these outcomes. Among weekly tea drinkers, the lowest estimated risk was observed at around six to eight cups daily. This finding suggests that the relationship between tea consumption and vascular health may vary according to how frequently and how much tea people drink.

The researchers also identified differences between tea varieties. Black tea showed more consistent inverse associations with vascular disease than green tea. In this context, an inverse association means that higher or regular consumption was linked to a lower risk of the outcomes studied.

Tea strength also appeared to matter. Moderate-strength tea was associated with the lowest risk, while consuming “burning hot” tea was associated with an elevated risk of vascular disease. These findings highlight that the relationship between tea drinking and vascular health may depend on more than whether a person consumes tea.

Smoking and Physical Activity Also Linked to Vascular Risk

The researchers additionally examined tea consumption alongside smoking status and physical activity. Their analysis indicated that these factors were collectively associated with vascular risk, suggesting that tea-drinking habits should be considered alongside other lifestyle characteristics.

The authors wrote: “Joint analyses showed that tea consumption, smoking status and physical were collectively associated with vascular risk, with the favourable combination of habitual tea consumption, non-current smoking and high physical activity associated with the lowest risk,”

According to the researchers, the combination of habitual tea consumption, not currently smoking and engaging in high levels of physical activity was associated with the lowest vascular risk.

Microplastics Can Be Chemically Active and May Cause Biological Harm

How Connected Apps and Cloud Services Pose Huge Cybersecurity Risks for Modern Cars

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Modern vehicles are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks through the apps, websites and cloud services connected to them, according to a study by researchers at the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers University of Technology. Their analysis of 413 reported automotive software vulnerabilities between 2022 and 2024 found that security weaknesses have increasingly moved away from vehicles’ internal computer systems towards their connected digital services.

Today’s cars exchange data with manufacturers’ cloud platforms, drivers’ smartphones and charging stations. In-car entertainment systems also use internet connections to stream films and other media. While these features provide convenience, they create additional potential entry points for hackers seeking access to vehicle systems or the personal information associated with them.

“Ten years ago, most vulnerabilities were found in the cars’ own systems. Now the share found in apps, websites and cloud services has nearly tripled. These systems hold data about where you live, where you drive and when, so the risk is not only that someone could interfere with the car, but that they could get hold of information about your life,” says Srijita Basu, postdoctoral researcher in software engineering at the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers University of Technology.

The findings highlight how cybersecurity risks in connected vehicles extend beyond the possibility of someone remotely interfering with driving functions. Weaknesses in digital services can also expose sensitive information about owners’ movements, routines and personal lives.

Cloud Services Expose Sensitive Driver Information

The researchers found that vulnerabilities in automotive software are now more commonly reported in apps, websites and cloud services than they were during the previous decade. These weaknesses can create opportunities for attackers to access information collected from vehicles, including data that reveals where drivers live and travel.

A reported IT vulnerability does not necessarily mean that a security breach has occurred. Instead, it indicates that a weakness exists that could potentially be exploited.

One example emerged in December 2024, when it was revealed that data from approximately 800,000 electric vehicles manufactured by Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda had been openly accessible on the internet for several months. The exposed information included precise GPS data, as well as vehicle owners’ email addresses, telephone numbers and home addresses.

The data made it possible to determine exactly where and when a particular vehicle had been driven. The vulnerability originated in the car manufacturer’s cloud service, which uploaded information collected from vehicles on the road.

An ethical hacker group uncovered the exposure following a tip from a whistleblower. The incident received widespread media coverage, and the leak was fixed before it was known to have been misused.

Basu said the researchers were surprised by the basic nature of some of the weaknesses identified in their review.

“When we compare with the previous decade, we can see that IT vulnerabilities are now most commonly found in apps, websites and cloud services, and that the risks are more often rated as serious and critical. We are surprised by how basic some of the weaknesses in these systems are. They can involve passwords that have not been changed since installation. Hackers can use tried-and-tested old tricks to gain access through a back door,” says Srijita Basu.

The researchers’ findings suggest that manufacturers need to pay greater attention to the security of the digital services that support connected vehicles, particularly as these systems handle increasingly sensitive driver information.

Weak Links Between Vehicle Systems Can Enable Attacks

The car’s infotainment system, which manages audio and media functions, is another potential point of vulnerability. If vehicle systems are not properly separated, someone connected to the car’s Wi-Fi network could potentially gain access to other systems within the vehicle.

A widely reported example of this risk occurred in 2015, when security researchers demonstrated that they could remotely compromise a Jeep Cherokee through its media system. They gained access to other vehicle systems and were able to take control of the steering, brakes and accelerator.

The new study indicates that similar security weaknesses continue to appear nearly a decade later.

“My advice to car manufacturers is to keep systems that control the vehicle strictly separated from infotainment and other connected systems, with strong security around them. They should also learn from the web and IT world, where many of these flaws have been known for years. When the car is constantly connected to the outside world, it also invites the outside world into the car,” says Srijita Basu.

Connected vehicles are also increasingly incorporating AI assistants that can help drivers plan journeys and perform other tasks. However, these systems may have access to personal information, creating additional privacy concerns if they are manipulated into disclosing data.

“Car owners also have a responsibility to make things more difficult for hackers. It is important to update the software as soon as the car prompts you to do so, and strong passwords are still important. Today we share a lot of personal information with AI assistants for cars, for example when we ask to plan a long journey in an electric car. Like other AI systems, these assistants can be tricked into revealing information they have been given, so it matters what we share with them and what car makers allow them to access,” says Srijita Basu.

Google Cloud Outage Disrupts UK Banks, Public Services, EMEA Region Worst Hit

President Murmu Presents Lalit Kala Akademi Awards to Artists in New Delhi

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

President Droupadi Murmu presented the Lalit Kala Akademi awards to selected artists participating in the 65th National Exhibition of Art in New Delhi on October 21, 2026. She also felicitated the Grand Prize winners and Honourable Mentions of the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026, recognising artistic contributions across different forms and mediums.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President described the occasion as a celebration of India’s artistic heritage, cultural diversity and contemporary creativity. She highlighted the importance of preserving the country’s diverse artistic traditions while encouraging creative expression that reflects changing times and society.

The President emphasised that art extends beyond paintings, sculptures and other physical works. According to her, artistic expression reflects cultural identity, collective memories, present-day experiences and aspirations for the future. She also called for greater opportunities for traditional artists in remote areas, particularly through training in new technologies and contemporary art techniques.

Murmu Calls for Greater Support for Young and Traditional Artists

Addressing the gathering, President Murmu highlighted the role of art in helping people understand society and their times from fresh perspectives. She said artistic expression is not restricted to particular forms or mediums but reflects the culture and experiences of the communities that produce it.

The President stressed the importance of equipping traditional artists, especially those living in remote areas, with training in new technologies and contemporary art techniques. Such opportunities, she said, would help them showcase their skills and participate in competitions on a wider platform.

She also urged stakeholders to create more opportunities for young and emerging artists to develop their talent, experiment with new mediums and expand their creative potential.

“Let us provide ample opportunities to young and emerging artists to develop their talent, explore new mediums, and expand their creative potential,” the President said.

Her remarks underscored the need to support both established artistic traditions and new forms of creative expression. By expanding access to training and opportunities, artists from different backgrounds could gain greater visibility and participate more widely in the art world.

President Highlights Financial Support and Wider Access to Art

President Murmu also drew attention to the practical challenges artists face in sustaining their work. She said artists today require more than opportunities to create. They also need financial support, access to broader markets and connections with art collectors.

The President welcomed efforts by the Lalit Kala Akademi and the Ministry of Culture to encourage the sale of artworks. Such initiatives can help artists reach potential buyers and create opportunities to earn from their creative work.

She further emphasised that art should not remain confined to galleries. Instead, it should reach schools, universities, public spaces and wider sections of society, allowing more people to engage with artistic expression.

Her remarks highlighted the importance of making art accessible beyond established cultural institutions while creating conditions that enable artists to sustain their careers.

The award ceremony brought together the recognition of artistic achievement and a broader call to strengthen opportunities for creators across India. Through her address, President Murmu emphasised the need to preserve the country’s diverse artistic heritage, support traditional artists through access to contemporary techniques, and help young talent explore new forms of expression.

She also reiterated the importance of connecting artists with financial resources and wider audiences, while ensuring that art reaches people across educational institutions and public spaces. The message was clear: supporting India’s artistic community requires both opportunities for creative development and practical measures that help artists share their work with society.

Google Cloud Outage Disrupts UK Banks, Public Services, EMEA Region Worst Hit

Americans Are Adding More Calories to Coffee as Creamer Use Rises

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Americans have maintained relatively stable coffee consumption over the past two decades, but the number of calories they consume through the beverage has increased, largely because of greater use of non-dairy creamers. A new study by researchers at Tufts University’s Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy found that while overall coffee consumption remained steady between 2003 and 2018, the average daily energy intake from coffee rose significantly.

The study, published online in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, analysed dietary intake data from approximately 30,000 US adults aged 20 and older. Researchers found that average coffee consumption remained around 13 ounces per day during the period examined, while calories consumed through coffee increased from 43 kilocalories (kcal) per day in 2003 to 60 kcal per day in 2018.

By 2018, non-dairy creamer, sugar or syrup, and dairy milk were the most significant contributors to calories added to coffee.

“Coffee consumption has been associated with several health benefits. However, coffee is often accompanied by the addition of sugar and cream, which can contribute to an increased consumption of calories from added sugar and saturated fat,” said Fang Fang Zhang, senior author of the study and Neely Family Professor at the Friedman School.

“The more we know about what people are consuming, the better we can understand the link between nutrition and overall health.”

The researchers said understanding what people add to their coffee is important for assessing the relationship between dietary habits and overall health.

Non-dairy creamers account for the largest share of added calories

The study examined data from eight consecutive cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), covering 2003 to 2018. The nationally representative sample included around 30,000 adults aged 20 and older, each of whom provided two 24-hour dietary recalls.

Researchers divided coffee-containing beverages into two categories: coffee consumed without additions and coffee containing additions. The latter category included dairy milk, half-and-half, dairy cream, non-dairy milk, non-dairy creamer, sugar or syrup, sugar substitutes, and other additions such as alcohol and cocoa powder.

To estimate the quantities of additions in premixed coffee beverages and powders reported by participants, the team used cycle-specific data from the US Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Database for Dietary Studies and its linked Standard Reference codes.

The findings showed that consumption of total coffee and coffee without additions remained stable among US adults between 2003 and 2018. However, the consumption of non-dairy additions increased during the same period.

In 2018, the most commonly consumed coffee additions by weight were dairy milk, at 21.4 grams per day; non-dairy creamer, at 8.1 grams per day; and sugar, at 4.4 grams per day. Consumption of dairy milk and sugar or sugar substitutes did not change significantly compared with 2003.

By contrast, average consumption of non-dairy additions rose from 3.65 grams per day to 10.5 grams per day. Within this category, non-dairy creamer consumption increased from 3.37 grams per day to 8 grams per day, while non-dairy milk consumption rose from 0.27 grams per day to 2.45 grams per day. Other coffee additions also recorded a small increase, with average consumption rising by 0.5 grams per day.

The calorie estimates showed a similar trend. In 2018, non-dairy creamer contributed the most calories added to coffee, at 18.5 kcal per day, followed by sugar at 16 kcal and dairy milk at 11 kcal. In comparison, non-dairy creamer contributed an average of 7.71 kcal per day in 2003.

“We found that non-dairy creamer being added to coffee has now passed both sugar and dairy for its contribution to the total energy consumed from coffee. Non-dairy creamers can be high in saturated fat, which is calorie dense. This could explain the increased calories that non-dairy creamer is contributing,” said Yongyi Pan, the study’s lead author and a Ph.D. candidate at the Friedman School.

“Even though it has been on the market since the 1950s, non-dairy creamer has increased in popularity in recent years as consumers seek plant-based or dairy alternatives.”

Sleep and working hours also influence coffee consumption

The researchers also examined how coffee consumption varied according to sleep duration, working hours and overall diet quality.

At the population level, adults who slept fewer hours or worked longer hours consumed more coffee than those who slept more or worked shorter hours. However, coffee consumption was similar among individuals with high and low overall diet quality.

These findings suggest that coffee consumption patterns may be associated with daily routines, although the study does not establish that shorter sleep or longer working hours directly cause higher consumption.

The researchers also acknowledged limitations in the data. Dietary recalls rely on participants reporting what they consumed, which can introduce measurement errors because food and beverage intake varies from day to day. The team took steps to improve the estimates, but self-reported data remains a limitation.

The study highlights a distinction between how much coffee Americans drink and how much energy they obtain from it. Although overall consumption remained stable during the 15-year study period, the growing contribution of non-dairy creamers helped increase the average calories consumed through coffee.

Dussehra greetings: Festival celebrates victory of good over evil, inspires hope and renewal

Japan’s MMX Mission Aims to Bring Samples Back From Mars’ Moon Phobos

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Japan is preparing to launch a pioneering space mission to collect and return samples from Phobos, one of the two small moons orbiting Mars. Led by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission aims to investigate how Phobos and its smaller sibling, Deimos, formed and what their composition can reveal about the history of the Red Planet.

The mission is expected to take five years, with JAXA planning to launch the spacecraft aboard its H3 rocket on Tuesday, according to an Associated Press report published on 18 October 2026. The spacecraft is expected to reach the Mars region around August 2027 and return samples to Earth in 2031.

Scientists hope that material collected from Phobos could provide clues about the formation of the Martian moons, Mars’ geological history and potentially the origins of life in the solar system. The mission could also help researchers assess whether a Martian moon might serve as a base for future crewed missions to Mars, an objective being pursued by the United States, China and other countries.

Yasuhiro Kawakatsu, project manager for the MMX mission, highlighted the scientific importance of investigating the two moons. “Despite their potential importance, Martian moons have never been fully investigated,” Kawakatsu said. “They are known as the most important unclimbed mountains in the solar system.”

Japan is leading the international effort, with NASA and other national space agencies contributing equipment, sampling technology and communications support.

Scientists seek answers about the origins of Phobos and Deimos

Although dozens of missions have travelled to Mars since the 1960s, its moons remain comparatively unexplored. Several Russian attempts to land on Phobos, including a mission launched in 2011, have failed.

Phobos and Deimos take their names from the Greek mythological personifications of fear and terror, who were the sons of Ares, the Greek god of war. Mars is the Roman counterpart of Ares.

Scientists continue to debate how the moons formed. One theory suggests that they are remnants of debris produced when a large celestial object struck Mars. Another proposes that they are asteroids captured by the planet’s gravitational pull after originating elsewhere in the solar system.

JAXA officials believe that analysing samples collected directly from Phobos could help resolve the debate.

“We can almost certainly come to a conclusion by analysing soil samples,” said Kiyoshi Kuramoto, the mission’s principal investigator.

Phobos was selected as the primary sampling target because it orbits closer to Mars than Deimos and may therefore contain more material originating from the planet. JAXA officials estimate that Martian material could account for approximately 0.1% of the material collected from Phobos.

The moon measures about 27 kilometres (17 miles) across at its widest point and orbits Mars at a distance of approximately 6,000 kilometres (3,700 miles). It completes roughly three orbits around the planet each day.

Samples from Phobos could also help scientists understand Deimos, as the two moons are believed to have similar origins. The MMX spacecraft will therefore conduct observations of Deimos during its mission.

The journey will cover a substantial distance. Although Mars comes within approximately 55 million kilometres of Earth at its closest approach, Kawakatsu estimates that the spacecraft’s actual flight distance will be between 500 million and 600 million kilometres.

International mission faces difficult landing and sample collection

The MMX spacecraft comprises three modules: propulsion, exploration and sample return. Only the third module is designed to return to Earth carrying the collected material.

The spacecraft will carry 13 scientific instruments, including a rover jointly developed by France and Germany, a NASA sampling device, an instrument for measuring gamma rays and a deep-space communications device supplied by the European Space Agency. A Japanese radiation monitor will also collect data relevant to future crewed exploration of Mars.

The French-German rover, Idefix, is scheduled to reach Phobos ahead of the main sampling operation. During a planned 100-day mission around 2029, it will investigate the surface and help identify a suitable landing location for the Japanese spacecraft.

Using topographical information provided by the rover, the MMX team will select a relatively smooth and level area for sampling.

Landing on Phobos presents a significant engineering challenge because the moon has only about one two-thousandth of Earth’s gravity. The spacecraft could bounce off the surface during touchdown, making a controlled landing essential. To reduce this risk, the exploration module has four-legged landing gear equipped with shock-absorbing features.

The rover is also designed to maintain traction in low gravity, recover if it tips over and move slowly across the moon’s uneven terrain.

After landing, JAXA aims to collect at least 10 grams (0.35 ounces) of material through two sampling attempts using Japanese and American techniques. NASA’s sampling device uses pressurised gas to lift surface dust into a collection container, while JAXA’s coring method will retrieve material from a depth of approximately two centimetres (0.8 inches).

During the first attempt, the spacecraft will collect surface and underground material using both devices. A second landing will gather additional underground samples. Scientists believe collecting material from different locations could improve the chances of identifying potential traces of past microbial life originating from Mars.

The samples will be sealed inside a heat-protected capsule designed to withstand the extreme conditions of re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere. The return module is expected to land in Australia before being transported to Japan for detailed analysis. If successful, the MMX mission will deliver the first samples collected directly from a Martian moon.

Trailblazing Technique Uncovers Real Shape of Scorching-Hot Exoplanet Atmospheres

Orionid Meteor Shower Peaks This Week: Best Time and Tips for Viewing

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

The annual Orionid meteor shower is set to reach its peak this week, giving skywatchers an opportunity to observe one of the major celestial events associated with Halley’s Comet. However, a bright, large moon is expected to limit visibility during the early part of the night, with viewing conditions likely to improve after it sets late at night.

According to the American Meteor Society, observers could see up to 20 meteors per hour under ideal conditions during the peak from Wednesday night into Thursday morning. The shower remains visible for several weeks before and after its peak, allowing observers additional opportunities to catch the display.

The Orionids can be seen from both the Northern and Southern hemispheres after midnight. Although the shower takes its name from the Orion constellation, the meteors can appear across the night sky, according to NASA.

Known for their speed and brightness, Orionid meteors sometimes leave glowing trails that remain visible for several seconds. Their appearance is caused by small pieces of cosmic debris entering Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds and burning up.

What causes the Orionid meteor shower?

Meteor showers occur several times a year when Earth passes through trails of debris left behind by comets and, occasionally, asteroids as it orbits the Sun.

The Orionids originate from Halley’s Comet, which passes near Earth approximately once every 75 years. As Earth crosses the debris trail, small particles enter the atmosphere at high speeds. Friction and interactions with the surrounding air cause the particles to heat up and burn, producing bright streaks of light commonly known as shooting stars.

During the Orionid shower, some meteors can appear particularly bright and fast. In certain cases, the surrounding atmosphere glows briefly, creating a luminous trail that persists for several seconds after the meteor has passed.

Despite their dramatic appearance, meteor showers can be observed without specialised equipment. NASA notes that the Orionids are visible across the night sky, so observers do not need to look exclusively towards Orion to spot them.

The number of meteors visible depends on several factors, including the time of night, weather conditions, moonlight and artificial light pollution. While the American Meteor Society estimates that up to 20 meteors per hour may be visible under ideal conditions during the peak, actual sightings can vary considerably.

Best time and conditions to watch the meteor shower

The best time to observe the Orionids is generally after midnight and during the early hours before dawn. During this period, viewing conditions can be more favourable, particularly when moonlight is limited.

This year’s bright moon is expected to interfere with visibility until it sets late at night. Observers may therefore have a better chance of spotting meteors during the later hours of the night and before sunrise.

Finding a location away from city lights, streetlights and other sources of artificial illumination can also improve the viewing experience. Open areas with a clear view of the sky are preferable, provided local weather conditions are suitable.

Allowing the eyes several minutes to adjust to darkness is another important step. Observers should avoid looking at bright phone screens or other light sources while waiting for meteors to appear, as this can make faint streaks harder to see.

No telescope or binoculars are required. Since Orionid meteors can appear in different parts of the sky, watching a broad area rather than concentrating on one constellation can improve the chances of spotting them.

Those who miss the peak will still have opportunities to observe the shower, as Orionid activity continues for a few weeks on either side of its maximum. The next major meteor shower identified in the report is the Southern Taurids, which are expected to peak on November 5. A crescent moon is forecast for that period, potentially creating more favourable viewing conditions than those expected during the Orionids’ peak.

Hurricane Simon Batters Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Floods Threaten Resorts

Scientists Successfully Thaw Pig Kidneys Frozen for Over a Year, Advancing Organ Preservation

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have achieved a significant milestone in organ preservation by freezing pig kidneys at −150°C (−238°F), storing them for extended periods and successfully transplanting them into test animals after thawing. In one case, a kidney remained frozen for more than a year before being warmed and transplanted, offering a potential new direction for addressing the limited storage time of donor organs.

The findings, reported in a preprint published on bioRxiv that is awaiting peer review, could eventually help transform organ transplantation by allowing organs to be preserved for months or even longer before surgery. The research team, co-led by transplant surgeon Erik Finger, reported that the thawed kidneys regained their colour and enabled the recipient pigs to produce urine, important early indicators of restored blood flow and organ function.

At present, donor organs have strict preservation windows. Hearts and lungs generally need to be transplanted within approximately six hours, while kidneys can remain viable for up to 36 hours under conventional preservation conditions. These limitations complicate the coordination of organ donation, transportation and transplantation.

In the United States, more than 100,000 people are on the organ transplant waiting list, according to the article. Researchers hope that extending the storage period could eventually give medical teams greater flexibility in matching organs with recipients and arranging surgical procedures.

“Ten years ago […] I wouldn’t say I had high hopes it was actually going to work,” Finger told MIT Technology Review on Thursday. “After we did the last transplant, I walked out of the room and said, ‘This is a big deal.’”

Vitrification and nanoparticle technology help preserve organs

The research builds on earlier experiments by the University of Minnesota team. In 2023, researchers reported successful tests involving frozen rat kidneys, followed by a pig kidney transplant experiment in 2025 in which the organ had been frozen for 10 days.

The latest work uses a preservation technique known as vitrification. The process involves immersing biological tissue in a chemical cryoprotective agent (CPA) before cooling it to extremely low temperatures. This creates a glass-like state that helps preserve the tissue while limiting the formation of damaging ice crystals.

According to the research, once the temperature falls below −120°C (−184°F), the vitrified organ can remain stable for extended periods.

“stay stable for long periods of time—we think indefinitely,” Finger told MIT Technology Review, referring to the stability of the organ at these temperatures.

Although vitrification is already used in reproductive medicine to preserve eggs, sperm and embryos, applying the technique to larger organs presents additional challenges. The tissue must be cooled and reheated without causing significant damage, while the protective chemicals must reach the necessary areas without becoming toxic.

To address the rewarming problem, Finger worked with the university’s mechanical engineering department, including bioengineer John Bischof, to develop an iron-oxide nanoparticle solution. The particles were incorporated into the cryoprotectant mixture and can be activated to help warm the organ more evenly.

The researchers designed the approach to reduce temperature differences during rewarming, which can otherwise damage delicate tissue. More uniform heating is particularly important when working with organs much larger than individual cells or embryos.

The successful transplantation results suggest that the method can preserve enough kidney function for the organs to operate after thawing. However, the reported recovery indicators do not, by themselves, establish long-term organ function or prove that the technique is ready for human transplantation.

Human organ preservation remains the next major challenge

The research team’s long-term objective is to adapt the method for human organs, potentially allowing donated organs to be stored for substantially longer than current methods permit.

The project has received support from the US National Science Foundation, which oversees the Engineering Research Center for Advanced Technologies for the Preservation of Biological Systems (ATP-Bio), headquartered at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

Mehmet Toner, a professor at Harvard Medical School and ATP-Bio’s deputy director, described the broader potential of the work in a press statement last year.

“The ability to safely pause biological time in a complex organ like a kidney opens the door to truly transformative change in transplantation medicine,” Toner said.

Despite the promising results, researchers acknowledge that substantial technical obstacles remain before the process can be applied safely to human organs. Larger organs require more complex cooling and warming procedures, while the distribution, stability and biological toxicity of cryoprotective chemicals must be carefully controlled.

Finger and his colleagues outlined these limitations in their preprint, writing: “Scaling organ vitrification to human dimensions shifts the challenge from rewarming alone to the integrated problems of cooling, [cryoprotective agent] stability, CPA transport and biological toxicity.”

These challenges mean that the latest results should be viewed as an experimental advance rather than an immediately available medical treatment. Further research will be needed to establish whether the technique can preserve larger organs reliably, maintain their function over time and meet the safety requirements for clinical transplantation.

US bars tech firm Cloudera from Green Card program for two years, orders $2 million settlement

Indian Researchers Identify Mars-Like Geological Sites in Tamil Nadu and Chile

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Shelton Rozario

Indian scientists have identified terrestrial sites in Tamil Nadu and Chile that could help researchers understand the geological conditions and history of water on Mars. The study, led by researchers from the University of Kerala, identified two minerals, melanterite and gypsum, whose formation and properties provide insights into water-rock interactions relevant to the Red Planet.

According to a Ministry of Science and Technology release published by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on October 16, 2026, melanterite was identified in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu, while gypsum was found in the Atacama Desert in Chile and the Tiruchirappalli Badlands in Tamil Nadu.

These locations have been identified as Martian analogue sites because of their geological, chemical and physical similarities to environments on Mars. Such sites allow scientists to study processes on Earth that may resemble those that occurred on other planetary bodies.

The findings are particularly relevant because orbital observations alone cannot fully characterise Martian minerals, according to the ministry. Researchers therefore require terrestrial locations and advanced analytical instruments to investigate mineral formation and understand the environmental conditions associated with them.

The research was conducted by a team led by Dr Sajin Kumar K.S., Project Coordinator of the Department of Science and Technology’s Fund for Improvement of Science and Technology Infrastructure (DST-FIST) at the University of Kerala. The team used a laser Raman spectrometer supported by DST-FIST to identify the minerals through their distinctive spectral fingerprints.

The findings have been published in two research papers in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets, a scientific journal focusing on planetary science.

Minerals reveal evidence of water activity on Mars-like terrain

Both melanterite and gypsum are hydrous sulphates, minerals that contain water as part of their structure and can provide evidence of interactions between water and rocks.

The two minerals offer different insights into environmental conditions. Gypsum can preserve evidence of past aqueous environments, while melanterite indicates temporary wet, acidic and oxidising conditions associated with sulphide oxidation.

At Neyveli, the researchers identified melanterite formed from marcasite in the lignite substratum. The mineral provides evidence of short-lived wet conditions, a process relevant to understanding sulphate formation on Mars.

Gypsum identified in the Atacama Desert and the Tiruchirappalli Badlands offers another perspective on past water activity. According to the ministry, gypsum can preserve biosignatures within its mineral matrix, making it useful for investigating environments that may once have supported life.

The identification of these minerals could help researchers understand how water interacted with the Martian surface and how environmental conditions changed over time. Such investigations are important for astrobiology, the study of the potential for life beyond Earth.

However, identifying minerals that form under conditions relevant to Mars does not establish that life existed at the terrestrial sites or on the Red Planet. Instead, the findings provide researchers with geological evidence that can be used to investigate past environments and identify locations worthy of further study.

The laser Raman spectrometer played a central role in confirming the mineral identities. By analysing the distinctive spectral signatures of the samples, the researchers could distinguish the minerals and study their characteristics.

Research to support future planetary exploration

The University of Kerala team is now expanding its work to investigate rare terrestrial analogue sites located in extreme environments across different parts of the world. The objective is to understand conditions relevant to primitive life and support future astrobiological research using the same analytical facility.

The findings also highlight the importance of research infrastructure supported through DST-FIST. Access to advanced instruments such as the laser Raman spectrometer allows researchers to conduct detailed mineralogical investigations and develop a better understanding of geological processes that may have occurred on Mars.

Maxwell’s Demon Finds a Way to Use Hidden Information

Strait of Hormuz crisis: Chronology of 10 major developments so far

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Sridhar P

The Strait of Hormuz crisis has become a test of US President Donald Trump’s Iran strategy, Tehran’s regional leverage and international diplomacy’s ability to prevent a wider conflict. Washington’s military campaign and economic pressure have collided with Iran’s efforts to assert control over passage through the strategic waterway.

Disputes over a ceasefire, maritime access, sanctions and nuclear negotiations have repeatedly undermined diplomatic efforts, leaving the confrontation unresolved and raising questions about the future security of the Gulf. Here’s a chronology of top ten developments captured from the conflict:

Chronology

Oct. 20, 2026: Iran tells Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, that it will not resume negotiations with Washington until its demands are met. Tehran seeks an end to US military operations, the lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil exports and the removal of the US blockade on Iranian ports. Washington insists that Iran’s nuclear programme must be addressed.

Oct. 18, 2026: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi renews Tehran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days, conditional on US concessions. The two sides remain divided over whether maritime access or Iran’s nuclear programme should be addressed first.

Sept. 24, 2026: US and Iranian negotiators explore a phased agreement in New York that would reopen the strait and end Washington’s economic blockade of Iran. The talks expose a central obstacle: neither side wants to surrender its principal source of negotiating leverage first.

Sept. 2, 2026: Reports indicate that senior Trump administration officials favour limiting further military escalation until after the November US midterm elections, amid concerns about public opposition to the war. The administration continues economic pressure on Tehran while weighing its next diplomatic and military steps.

Aug. 18, 2026: Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf says the strait will remain closed until Washington meets conditions outlined in an interim agreement, including lifting the blockade, easing oil sanctions and releasing frozen Iranian assets. Tehran declares that the diplomatic framework has unravelled.

Aug. 9, 2026: Iran says negotiations with Oman on new maritime routes through the strait are nearing completion but insists that changing shipping lanes alone will not reopen the waterway. Tehran continues to demand concessions from Washington, including relief from sanctions and military pressure.

Aug. 6, 2026: The Trump administration faces a choice between accepting an arrangement that could give Iran a greater role in supervising the strait and escalating military action. The dispute highlights the gap between Washington’s opposition to Iranian control and Tehran’s determination to secure political concessions.

July 7, 2026: Trump declares the interim agreement with Iran over, deepening the dispute over maritime control and the conditions for ending hostilities. Iran subsequently describes the agreement as suspended, further weakening prospects for a negotiated settlement.

June 17, 2026: Washington and Tehran sign an interim memorandum of understanding committing them to negotiate a broader settlement. The arrangement provides for efforts to ensure safe passage through the strait for 60 days, but disagreements over implementation and control of maritime traffic undermine the agreement.

Feb. 28, 2026: The United States and Israel launch coordinated strikes against Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior Iranian military and security officials. US President Donald Trump says the operation is intended to eliminate threats from Iran and prevent it from developing nuclear weapons, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backs the assault.

Kim Jong Un Death Rumours: A Chronology of Reports Since 2011

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Sridhar P

Kim Jong Un has been the subject of repeated death rumours since taking power in North Korea in December 2011. The claims have ranged from assassination reports and alleged US military strikes to speculation about a fatal illness. Here’s a list of major death claims documented below, which forced the North Korean leader’s public appearance soon to defy the claim.

February 10, 2012: Foreign Policy reported on February 10, 2012, that an unverified message circulating on Chinese social media claimed unknown assailants had broken into Kim’s residence and shot him dead. The post cited unnamed sources and alleged unusual activity around North Korea’s embassy in Beijing. The report was published less than two months after Kim succeeded his father, Kim Jong Il, who died on December 17, 2011.

February 12, 2012: The Korea Times reported on February 12, 2012, that US officials had rejected claims that Kim was assassinated during a visit to Beijing. The rumours had spread from Chinese social media to Twitter. According to the report, US officials said they had seen no evidence of abnormal activity in North Korea to support the claim.

July 6, 2017: A website published a story on July 6, 2017, claiming Kim had died from a gunshot wound to the head fired by an American sniper. The report alleged that North Korean state media had attributed the shooting to a US operative. PolitiFact examined the claim on July 20, 2017, and found it fabricated. North Korean state media had reported that Kim visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun on July 8, two days after the original claim appeared.

July 23-28, 2017: A separate fabricated story claimed Kim was killed in a US military operation against North Korea. The story appeared on a website known for publishing fictional reports presented as news. PolitiFact published its assessment on August 4, 2017, concluding that the alleged US operation and Kim’s death had not occurred.

April 21, 2020: CNN reported on April 21, 2020, that US officials were monitoring intelligence suggesting Kim was in grave danger after undergoing surgery. The report followed his absence from public view and his failure to attend an April 15 ceremony marking the birthday of his grandfather, North Korean founder Kim Il Sung. The speculation followed an earlier report by the Seoul-based website Daily NK, which cited an unnamed source as saying Kim was recovering after a cardiovascular procedure. The reports did not establish that he had died.

April 22, 2020: PolitiFact reported on April 22, 2020, that online videos were falsely claiming Kim had died. The fact-check said rumours and reports based on anonymous sources had fuelled speculation about his health, but there were no confirmed breaking-news reports of his death. The episode illustrated how an initial report about a possible medical emergency developed into more definitive claims about his condition.

May 2, 2020: North Korean state media released photographs on May 2, 2020, purporting to show Kim attending the opening of a fertiliser factory the previous day. It was his first reported public appearance in about 20 days. The images followed weeks of international speculation about his health, including claims that he was critically ill or had died. The Guardian reported that the photographs showed Kim cutting a ribbon and touring the factory, although independent journalists had not been allowed to verify the event themselves.

October 19-20, 2026: A post attributed to US-based Chinese dissident Wanjun Xie claimed Kim had suffered a severe brain haemorrhage, fallen into a coma and been taken to Beijing for treatment before dying. It further alleged that his body had been returned secretly to North Korea and that the death was being concealed.

October 20, 2026: North Korean state media reported on October 20 that Kim had visited a garment and footwear exhibition in Pyongyang on October 19, accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae. The release of the photographs followed the circulation of the death rumours in media outlets. Yonhap reported that the images showed Kim touring the exhibition.

Vinod Khosla’s chief of staff job sparks Silicon Valley debate over 80-hour workweeks

Posted on October 21, 2026 by Srinivas Chakravarty

Indian-origin technology investor Vinod Khosla has triggered a debate over Silicon Valley’s demanding work culture after advertising for a chief of staff who can keep pace with his intense schedule, including nights and weekends when required.

The 71-year-old co-founder of Sun Microsystems and founder of Khosla Ventures is offering the successful candidate an opportunity to work closely with one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capitalists. But the job description has drawn attention for its expectations: in-person work in Menlo Park, California, generally from 8 am to 8 pm, alongside “around-the-clock availability, including nights and weekends when needed.”

The salary has not been disclosed. The position involves evaluating investments, meeting startup founders, researching emerging technologies and supporting companies backed by Khosla Ventures. Applicants are expected to demonstrate integrity, composure and a low ego.

The advertisement quickly became a talking point on social media, with critics questioning whether access to a celebrated investor justifies a potentially punishing work schedule. Others viewed the opportunity as a rare chance to learn directly from an investor whose early bets include OpenAI, DoorDash and Instacart.

Khosla says the job is intense, not bound by fixed hours

Khosla responded to the reaction by clarifying that the role does not have a rigid working-hours requirement, although it demands considerable commitment.

“Jokes aside honest truth is this job has no specific hours requirement but is intense. I work 80 hours/week and this person needs to keep up. Doing, learning & more…. and very fun,” he wrote in a follow-up social media post, according to The Times of India.

His clarification did little to end the debate. Critics joked that the position offered little room for family life or weekends, while supporters argued that working closely with an influential investor could accelerate a candidate’s professional development.

Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian endorsed the opportunity as potentially life-changing. Matteo Franceschetti, founder of sleep-technology company Eight Sleep, also expressed interest, prompting Khosla to remind him that he would prefer the entrepreneur to focus on building his own company.

Kristina Simmons, a former Khosla aide who now leads venture capital firm Overwater Ventures, described the role as intense, demanding and rewarding, emphasising the responsibility and opportunity to help build ambitious businesses.

The disagreement reflects a longstanding question in the technology industry: whether exceptional professional opportunities require employees to surrender conventional boundaries between work and personal life.

From Pune to Silicon Valley’s venture capital elite

Born in Pune, Khosla studied at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi before earning degrees at Carnegie Mellon University and Stanford Graduate School of Business.

He co-founded Sun Microsystems in 1982, helping establish a company that became influential in the development of internet-era computing. In 2004, he founded Khosla Ventures, which has since invested across artificial intelligence, software, healthcare, energy and climate technology.

The firm developed a reputation for backing unconventional ideas and early-stage companies that other investors might consider too risky. Its investment history includes OpenAI, DoorDash and Instacart, although investment exposure and returns vary across individual ventures.

Khosla is also known for outspoken interventions in public debates. In June, he criticised Stanford students who protested against Google chief executive Sundar Pichai during a commencement address. The demonstrators objected to Google’s contracts and links with the Israeli government and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The chief of staff opening puts Khosla’s management style under fresh scrutiny. For applicants, the attraction is proximity to investment decisions, startup founders and emerging technologies. The trade-off is the possibility of long working hours, unpredictable demands and limited separation between professional and personal time.

The debate also echoes a controversy in India over Infosys co-founder N.R. Narayana Murthy’s proposal that young Indians work 70 hours a week to improve the country’s productivity and competitiveness.

Both arguments raise a similar question, although they arise in different professional contexts: how should ambitious workplaces balance intensity and performance against employee wellbeing, family responsibilities and sustainable productivity?

Khosla’s position is not simply a conventional administrative role. It offers direct exposure to high-stakes investment decisions and entrepreneurs building businesses across emerging industries. But with compensation undisclosed and expectations extending beyond standard office hours, prospective candidates must weigh the potential learning opportunity against the personal cost.

Ultimately, the job advertisement has turned a recruitment exercise into a wider debate about Silicon Valley’s culture of relentless ambition. For some, the position represents an exceptional apprenticeship in financing the future. For others, it illustrates how prestige and career acceleration can be used to normalise demands that leave little room for life outside work.

FAQs

What job is Vinod Khosla offering?

Khosla Ventures founder Vinod Khosla is seeking a chief of staff to assist with investment evaluation, startup founder meetings, technology research and support for portfolio companies.

What are the working hours for the job?

The advertisement specifies an in-person role in Menlo Park, generally from 8 am to 8 pm, with availability at other times, including nights and weekends, when needed. Khosla subsequently said there were no fixed hours but described the job as intense.

How much does the chief of staff job pay?

The salary has not been disclosed in the reported advertisement.

Who is Vinod Khosla?

Born in Pune, Khosla co-founded Sun Microsystems in 1982 and established Khosla Ventures in 2004. His investment interests include AI, healthcare, software, energy and climate technology.

Why has the job advertisement sparked controversy?

The demanding availability expectations have revived debate over whether long working hours are essential for professional success or come at an unacceptable cost to work-life balance.