How protecting ‘umbrella species’ Polar bear helps scientists in Arctic conservation

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On the frozen edge of Hudson Bay, polar bears are doing more than hunting seals. They are helping scientists map the future of Arctic conservation.

A new study led by researchers at the University of Alberta and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) suggests that protecting polar bear habitats could also shield a wide network of Arctic species. The research draws on nearly 20 years of tracking data from 355 bears to identify areas where conservation efforts may deliver the greatest impact.

The findings, published in the journal Arctic Science, focus on western Hudson Bay, a region already under pressure from warming temperatures and shifting ice conditions.

Hudson Bay Polar Bear Tracking Study Identifies High-Use Conservation Zone

The research pinpoints a “high-use” area near Cape Churchill in Manitoba as a priority zone for protection. Scientists analyzed long-term movement patterns to determine where polar bears consistently spend time, particularly during critical periods such as feeding and migration.

Establishing marine protected areas, or MPAs, in Arctic waters has long been complicated by limited data on where marine life concentrates. The study proposes that polar bears can serve as a proxy for broader ecosystem activity, offering a data-rich foundation for decision-making.

“By leveraging the extensive data we have on polar bears, we can help design MPAs that safeguard both the bears and the vast network of Arctic species that rely on them,” said Dr. Nicholas Pilfold, a conservation scientist at SDZWA.

Researchers argue that the approach addresses a central challenge in marine conservation. Instead of attempting to track multiple species across vast and remote regions, policymakers can use one well-studied species to guide protection efforts.

Umbrella Species Concept Gains Ground In Arctic Conservation Strategy

The concept of an “umbrella species” refers to a single species whose protection indirectly benefits others that share its habitat. According to the study, polar bears meet nearly all criteria for this role.

They have large home ranges, well-documented biological data, and high sensitivity to environmental disturbance. These characteristics make them effective indicators of ecosystem health.

The research highlights how polar bears influence their surroundings beyond their own survival. When bears hunt, leftover carcasses provide food for scavengers such as Arctic foxes, wolves, ravens, and gulls. This behavior creates a chain of ecological benefits that extends across species.

Dr. Andrew Derocher, a professor of biological sciences at the University of Alberta, said the data offers a practical path forward for conservation planning. “In the rapidly warming Arctic, marine ecosystems will be stressed by the additive effects of industrial activity and polar bear location data provide a path to designing marine protected areas,” he said. [2]

Policy Momentum Builds Around Hudson Bay Marine Protection Plans

The study arrives as policymakers in Canada consider expanding protections in the region. In February 2026, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew announced funding to explore the creation of a national marine conservation area in western Hudson Bay.

While details of the proposal remain under development, the research provides scientific backing for where boundaries could be drawn. Conservation areas designed around polar bear activity may capture critical habitats for multiple species without requiring extensive new data collection.

Scientists involved in the study also emphasize the need for flexibility. The Arctic environment is changing rapidly, with sea ice loss altering migration routes and feeding patterns.

Pilfold noted that dynamic MPAs, which can adapt to shifting ecological conditions, may be particularly effective in this context. “Well-designed dynamic MPAs have the potential to preserve biodiversity in a constantly changing Arctic landscape,” he said.

The researchers acknowledge that climate change could eventually reduce the effectiveness of polar bears as an umbrella species if their habitat continues to shrink. Still, they describe the approach as a practical starting point for immediate conservation action.

For now, the polar bear’s movements offer something rare in the Arctic: a clear, data-driven map for protecting life in one of the planet’s most fragile ecosystems.

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Thousands Of Pico-Satellites Could Redefine Direct Smartphone Connectivity From Space

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A new approach to satellite communications could significantly reshape how smartphones connect to space, with researchers proposing the use of thousands of tiny satellites working in unison rather than relying on a single, complex spacecraft.

Scientists in Japan have demonstrated that swarms of pico-satellites—each carrying a small हिस्सा of a larger antenna system—can collectively function as a single, powerful phased-array antenna. The early-stage experiment showed that such a distributed system can deliver stable, high-quality data transmission, offering a potential pathway to cheaper and more resilient global connectivity.

The concept builds on the growing interest in direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications, which aim to allow ordinary smartphones to connect directly to satellites without the need for ground infrastructure. The technology is particularly attractive for extending coverage to remote regions such as oceans, deserts, and disaster-hit areas where terrestrial networks are either weak or nonexistent.

Traditionally, achieving this requires large satellites equipped with sophisticated phased-array antennas. These systems rely on tightly coordinated antenna elements that can steer signals electronically. However, they are expensive to build and launch, and their centralized design creates a single point of failure—any major malfunction can render the entire satellite ineffective.

The Japanese research team, led by Associate Professor Atsushi Shirane, has proposed a fundamentally different architecture. Instead of concentrating antenna elements on one satellite, the system distributes them across thousands of pico-satellites flying in formation. These miniature units are synchronized wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical connections.

At the heart of the innovation is what the researchers describe as “spatial wireless combining and distributing technology.” In this setup, a central gateway satellite broadcasts a reference signal that allows all participating pico-satellites to remain precisely synchronized. This removes the need for energy-intensive components such as local oscillators on each unit, enabling further miniaturization and reducing power consumption.

The team developed a compact transceiver chip using standard silicon CMOS technology, making it suitable for large-scale, low-cost manufacturing. In laboratory simulations replicating satellite formations, the system demonstrated accurate beam steering and reliable data transmission using communication protocols similar to those found in modern smartphones.

Beyond lowering costs, the distributed nature of the system offers a major reliability advantage. Because the network is made up of numerous independent satellites, the failure of individual units does not compromise the entire system—unlike traditional monolithic satellites.

The findings suggest that formation-flying pico-satellites could become a viable foundation for next-generation satellite networks. If scaled successfully, the approach could expand global connectivity while reducing both financial and operational risks, bringing direct satellite communication closer to everyday mobile users.

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

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

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

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

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

SHE Marts scheme under NRLM for SHG market access

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

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

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

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

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

Rural women entrepreneurs transition from credit to enterprise ownership

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

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

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

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

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

SHE Marts funding model and implementation status

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

RBI Proposes New Rules on Unauthorised Electronic Banking Transactions

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A surge in digital payments has brought convenience to millions of Indian users. It has also increased the risk of fraud.

 

Rajnath Singh reviews West Asia situation and Its impact on India defence preparedness

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India’s defence leadership met in New Delhi on March 24 to assess how tensions in West Asia could affect the country’s military preparedness.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired the high level review, which included the Chief of Defence Staff, the professional head of India’s armed forces, along with the Army, Navy and Air Force chiefs.

Senior officials including the Defence Secretary, Secretary for Defence Production and the Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation, India’s premier military research agency, also attended the meeting.

The discussions focused on the evolving security situation in West Asia and its potential implications for India.

India defence preparedness West Asia conflict supply chain impact

Officials briefed the minister on global and regional developments, including the possible consequences of an escalation in ongoing conflicts.

The review examined how such developments could affect India’s defence preparedness, particularly in areas linked to procurement and production of military equipment.

Supply chain management was identified as a key area of concern, especially in relation to maintaining and servicing existing defence platforms.

India relies on a mix of domestic production and international sourcing for defence equipment, making supply chain stability critical during periods of geopolitical uncertainty.

The meeting also assessed potential challenges and opportunities arising from the current situation, though no specific operational changes were announced.

Rajnath Singh defence roadmap Aatmanirbhar Bharat focus

Rajnath Singh directed officials to continuously study operational and technological lessons emerging from ongoing conflicts in West Asia.

“We need to formalise a comprehensive integrated roadmap for the next decade factoring in the lessons learnt, challenges and opportunities going forward whilst ensuring Aatmanirbharta and operational readiness across all fronts,” he said.

The term Aatmanirbharta refers to India’s policy focus on self reliance, particularly in defence manufacturing and technology development.

Officials were asked to incorporate these priorities into long term planning, with an emphasis on strengthening domestic capabilities while maintaining readiness.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation and other agencies are expected to play a central role in translating these directives into actionable plans.

The review comes as India continues to monitor global conflicts for lessons that could inform its own military doctrine, procurement strategies and technological development.

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XRISM finally solves famous star’s 50-year space mystery

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A star visible to the naked eye has held a secret for more than half a century.

Gamma Cassiopeiae, a bright star in the constellation Cassiopeia, has puzzled astronomers since the 1970s with its unusually intense X ray emissions. [1]

Now, researchers using the X Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission, a joint space observatory developed by Japan, the United States and Europe, say they have identified the source. [1]

The emissions come from an unseen white dwarf companion that pulls in material from the larger star and releases X rays as it does so. [1]

Gamma Cas X ray origin explained by white dwarf companion

The findings are based on high resolution observations from XRISM’s Resolve spectrometer, which can track subtle changes in X ray signals.

Researchers found that the hot plasma responsible for the X rays moves in sync with the orbit of the hidden companion star. [1]

This motion provided direct evidence that the emissions are linked to accretion, a process in which matter falls onto a dense object such as a white dwarf.

Lead author Yaël Nazé, an astronomer at the University of Liège in Belgium, said the result concludes decades of investigation.

“There has been an intense effort to solve the mystery of gamma Cas across many research groups for many decades. And now, thanks to the high precision observations of XRISM, we have finally done it,” Nazé said. [1]

For years, scientists had narrowed the explanation to two possibilities. One involved magnetic interactions between the star and its surrounding disc. The other suggested that a companion object was drawing in material and generating X rays.

The XRISM data supports the second explanation. [1]

Be stars gamma Cas history and unusual emission features

Gamma Cassiopeiae belongs to a class known as Be stars, a type of hot, rapidly rotating star surrounded by a disc of material.

The star’s unusual behavior was first noted in 1866 by Italian astronomer Angelo Secchi, who observed unexpected emission lines in its light spectrum. [1]

Those observations led to the classification of Be stars, which are known for ejecting material that forms a rotating disc around them.

By the mid 20th century, astronomers had detected that gamma Cas also had a low mass companion, though it remained invisible to direct observation. [1]

The discovery of strong X ray emissions in the 1970s added another layer to the mystery. The radiation was traced to extremely hot plasma, reaching temperatures of about 150 million degrees, far exceeding typical levels for such stars. [1]

Subsequent observations with space telescopes such as XMM Newton, the European Space Agency’s X ray observatory, NASA’s Chandra X ray Observatory, and the eROSITA telescope identified similar behavior in a small group of stars now known as gamma Cas type objects. [1]

XRISM discovery impact on binary star evolution research

The identification of a white dwarf companion resolves the origin of the X rays and provides a clearer picture of how these systems function.

In this model, material from the Be star’s disc spirals toward the white dwarf, heating up and emitting high energy radiation in the process.

Researchers say the findings also raise new questions about how such binary systems form.

White dwarf companions were expected to be common in systems with lower mass stars. The new results suggest they may instead occur more frequently with high mass Be stars. [1]

Alice Borghese, a research fellow at the European Space Agency specializing in high energy astrophysics, said earlier missions helped narrow the possibilities.

“XMM Newton did so much of the groundwork in ruling out various theories about gamma Cas. And now with the next generation of advanced instrumentation, XRISM has brought us over the finish line,” she said. [1]

The study highlights the role of international collaboration in space science. XRISM combines contributions from Japanese, European and American teams.

Matteo Guainazzi, the European Space Agency’s XRISM project scientist, said the result demonstrates the value of that cooperation.

“This wonderful result underlines the strong collaboration between XRISM’s Japanese, European and American teams,” he said. [1]

For astronomers, the long running puzzle of gamma Cas has shifted from speculation to measurement.

A mystery that began with unusual light signatures in the 19th century now has a defined mechanism grounded in observation.

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Illegal Fishing Intrusions Reported Off Andhra Coast, Centre Details Action

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

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

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

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

Marine fishing regulation India territorial waters and EEZ framework

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

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

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

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

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

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

Andhra Tamil Nadu fishing dispute Pulicat Lake and RFMC intervention

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inter state coordination and action against illegal fishing vessels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UPSC recruitment selection process and candidate communication details

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

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

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

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

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

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

UPSC recruitment results February 2026 implications for applicants

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to see result

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Simulated ingestion tests show potential exposure risk for children

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

commons.wikimedia.org

Fast fashion textile safety concerns and next research steps

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Staple crops deforestation impact compared to cocoa coffee rubber

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Agriculture driven deforestation global data and carbon emissions findings

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

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

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

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

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

wikipedia.org

Domestic food production role in deforestation policy response

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They are also rooted in everyday food systems.

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

Commodities driving global deforestation

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

Countries responsible for the biggest shares of global deforestation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sperm whale headbutting behavior documented using drone footage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Courtesy: Popular Science Podcasts)

Moby Dick and Essex whale attack accounts gain scientific backing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evolutionary risks and questions about whale communication systems

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Wired for water: How electrification is transforming desalination

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Pressure on the world’s water resources is rising steadily — and in many places, it is reaching critical levels. Growing populations, expanding cities, and increasing demand from agriculture and industry are all putting fresh water supplies under strain, particularly in regions that are already struggling.

To cope with this, many countries have turned to desalination — the process of converting seawater into usable fresh water. While this has helped ease shortages in some of the hardest-hit areas, it comes at a cost. Desalination can be energy-intensive, accounting for anything from a negligible share to as much as 15 per cent of a country’s total energy use, depending on how heavily it relies on the technology. Now, a shift is underway. Older, heat-based systems are gradually being replaced by electricity-driven methods, reflecting a broader transition in how energy is produced and used.

The scale of global water use highlights the challenge. Each year, more than 4,000 billion cubic metres of freshwater are withdrawn worldwide. Of this, nearly 1,500 billion cubic metres are consumed — meaning the water is not returned to its source. To put that into perspective, humanity uses roughly the equivalent of the entire volume of Lake Michigan every year.

Agriculture remains by far the largest consumer, accounting for around 70 per cent of total withdrawals and close to 90 per cent of actual consumption. As the global population has grown by about 30 per cent since 2000, water demand from cities has risen at a similar pace. A slight decline in industrial water use has done little to offset this broader increase.

The result is mounting water stress. In many regions, water is being extracted faster than it can be replenished, particularly from underground sources. Over time, this kind of overuse can permanently damage ecosystems and lead to what experts describe as “water bankruptcy” — a point at which natural reserves can no longer recover.

Over the past two decades, nearly one billion more people have come to live in areas facing high water stress, pushing the global total to over three billion. Much of this increase has occurred in regions already under severe strain. Today, about 30 per cent of the world’s population lives in areas classified as extremely water-stressed, with around 85 per cent of those affected residing in emerging and developing economies.

The situation is especially stark in fast-growing countries. In India, for instance, more than 70 per cent of the population lives in water-stressed regions. The scale of the problem is such that the number of people currently affected is roughly equal to the country’s entire population in the early 2000s.

The Middle East and North Africa face an even harsher reality. Home to around 490 million people as of 2024, the region has long grappled with limited water resources. About three-quarters of its population lived under water stress at the turn of the century, and despite some population shifts toward relatively less affected areas, more than 70 per cent still live in conditions of high or extreme water scarcity today.

Taken together, the trends point to a deepening global challenge. As demand continues to rise and climate pressures intensify, managing water resources — and the energy needed to sustain them — is becoming one of the defining issues of our time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hydration strategy test for kidney stones is in water: Study

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A large new clinical trial has taken a closer look at a long-standing piece of medical advice for kidney stone patients: drink more water. While the recommendation remains sound, the study suggests that actually sticking to it in real life is far harder than many assume.

Kidney stones are known for causing severe, often debilitating pain. In the United States, about one in 11 people will develop them at some point, and nearly half of those patients are likely to face a recurrence. Preventing that cycle has been a major focus for doctors, with high fluid intake widely seen as one of the most effective strategies.

To test how practical that advice is, researchers from the Urinary Stone Disease Research Network conducted what is now the largest behavioural study of its kind. The trial, coordinated by the Duke Clinical Research Institute and published in The Lancet on March 19, followed 1,658 adolescents and adults across six major U.S. medical centres over a two-year period.

Participants were split into two groups. One received standard care, while the other was enrolled in an intensive hydration programme designed to encourage higher fluid intake. This programme went beyond simple advice. It included smart water bottles that tracked how much participants drank, personalised daily hydration targets, reminder messages, financial incentives, and regular health coaching.

Each participant in the programme was given a tailored “fluid prescription,” calculated based on how much urine they typically produced and how much more fluid they would need to reach a target of at least 2.5 litres per day — a level believed to reduce the risk of stone formation.

The results showed that people in the programme did increase their fluid intake and produced more urine on average. However, the improvement was modest, and crucially, it did not translate into a significant reduction in the recurrence of symptomatic kidney stones across the group as a whole.

Researchers say this gap highlights a central challenge: adherence. Even with constant reminders, monitoring, and incentives, maintaining very high levels of daily fluid intake proved difficult.

Charles Scales, a senior author of the study and a professor at Duke University School of Medicine, noted that the findings underline how demanding such lifestyle changes can be. He pointed out that difficulty in maintaining these habits likely contributes to the high rate of recurrence seen in kidney stone patients.

Importantly, the study stands out for measuring actual stone recurrence rather than relying only on indirect markers such as fluid intake or urine output. Researchers used imaging and regular follow-ups to track whether new stones formed or existing ones grew, offering a more realistic picture of outcomes.

The findings are prompting experts to rethink a one-size-fits-all approach. Gregory Tasian, a co-senior author and paediatric urologist, said future strategies may need to be more personalised. Instead of asking every patient to meet the same hydration target, doctors may need to identify which patients benefit most from specific goals and why others struggle to maintain them.

The study also points to broader factors that may affect hydration habits — including work environments, daily routines, and individual health conditions — suggesting that behavioural solutions alone may not be enough.

Researchers are now calling for more tailored interventions, which could include customised hydration plans, better ways to address practical barriers to drinking more fluids, and even medical therapies aimed at preventing minerals from crystallising in urine.

For patients, the takeaway is clear but nuanced. Drinking more water still matters, but this study shows that turning that advice into a sustainable daily habit — and one that meaningfully reduces risk — is more complex than it appears.

As lead author Alana Desai put it, kidney stone disease is a chronic condition marked by sudden and often severe episodes that can disrupt everyday life. While many patients would welcome a simple solution, the path to prevention may require a more personalised and multifaceted approach.

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

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

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

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

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

Properties on World Heritage List (44)

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

 

CULTURAL SITES:

Under Protection of Archaeological Survey of India (27)

S.

No

 

 Name of Site State

 

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

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

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

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

 

Under Protection of Ministry of Railways (2)

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

 

Under Protection of Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (1)

30. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya Bihar 2002

 

Under Protection of Rajasthan State Archaeology and Museums (1)

31. The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur Rajasthan 2010

 

Under Protection of Chandigarh Administration (1)

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

 

Under Protection of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (1)

33. Historic City of Ahmedabad Gujarat 2017

 

Under Protection of Bombay Municipal Corporation (1)

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

Under Protection of Jaipur Municipal Corporation (1)

35. Jaipur City, Rajasthan Govt of Rajasthan 2019

 

Under Vice Chancellor, Visva Bharati (1)

36. Santiniketan Visva Bharati 2023

NATURAL PROPERTIES: (7)

Under Protection of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Changes

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

MIXED PROPERTIES: (1)

Under Protection of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Changes

44. Khangchendzonga National Park (2016) Sikkim

 

 2016

 

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

 

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Ahmadabad Joins 36 UNESCO’s World Heritage Properties in India

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NASA’s Artemis II Rocket Reaches Launch Pad 39B, Final Countdown Begins

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Cape Canaveral, March 22, 2026: NASA’s Artemis II mission has reached a critical milestone, with the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft now standing at Launch Pad 39B at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, setting the stage for the first crewed lunar mission in more than five decades.

The towering 322-foot-tall Moon rocket arrived at the pad at 11:21 a.m. EDT on Friday, March 20, completing an 11-hour journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building. The slow and steady trek began at 12:20 a.m. EDT, as NASA’s crawler-transporter 2 carried the integrated SLS and Orion, secured atop the mobile launcher, along the 4-mile path at a maximum speed of just 0.82 mph.

With the rocket now in place at Pad 39B, the historic launch site of Apollo missions and numerous space shuttle flights, NASA teams are entering the final phase of prelaunch preparations. The mission is targeting liftoff as soon as Wednesday, April 1, with the early April launch window extending through Monday, April 6.

Artemis II will mark the first crewed test flight of the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft, carrying a four-member astronaut team on a 10-day journey around the Moon and back. The crew includes NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman as Commander, Victor Glover as Pilot, and Christina Koch as Mission Specialist, alongside Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen as Mission Specialist.

The mission represents a pivotal step in what NASA describes as a “Golden Age of innovation and exploration.” Artemis II will pave the way for subsequent U.S.-crewed missions to the lunar surface, with the goal of establishing a sustained presence on the Moon that will ultimately enable the agency to prepare for human exploration of Mars.

As the world watches, the final countdown has begun for humanity’s return to deep space.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stopping-by Locals Catch a Glimpse

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

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

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

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

INS Trikand Concludes Seychelles Port Call, Participates in First Tri-Services Exercise Lamitiye

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Indian Naval Ship Trikand, a stealth frigate of the Indian Navy, departed from Port Victoria, Seychelles, on March 20, 2026, following an enriching port call that underscored India’s deepening defence cooperation with the island nation.

During the visit, Captain Sachin Kulkarni, Commanding Officer of the ship, called on senior government functionaries and the High Commissioner of India to Seychelles. In a gesture of collaborative partnership, the ship also handed over critical spares and essential stores to the Government of Seychelles.

The port call coincided with INS Trikand’s participation in the first tri-services edition of Exercise Lamitiye 2026, alongside contingents from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, as well as the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF). The exercise marked the maiden participation of the Indian Navy in Lamitiye, reflecting a significant milestone in joint military engagement between the two nations.

During the harbour phase, Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) training was conducted onboard the ship, which included joint boarding drills. The sea phase that followed saw the ship exercise with SCGS Le Vigilant, with joint boarding operations at sea carried out by a team comprising Indian Navy Marine Commandos and Special Forces of the SDF. Subsequently, Army troops from the Indian Army and the Seychelles Defence Forces conducted landing operations on Praslin Island.

Maj Gen Michael Rosette, Chief of Defence Forces, SDF, along with Brig Jean Attala, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, SDF, and other senior officers embarked INS Trikand during the sea phase to witness the conduct of the exercise.

Exercise Lamitiye, which means ‘friendship’ in Creole, provided a valuable opportunity to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime cooperation between India and Seychelles, reaffirming the historic ties between the two nations.

The port call aligns with India’s vision of MAHASAGAR or Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. It also reinforces the Indian Navy’s commitment to remain the Preferred Security Partner and First Responder in the Indian Ocean Region.