The West Bengal government led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has once again found itself in the middle of a political controversy following an alleged protocol lapse during the recent visit of President Droupadi Murmu. The issue emerged after the President attended the 9th International Santal Conference held on Saturday, which was organized by a private group. The controversy quickly gained attention across political circles and media outlets. According to reports, the Chief Mi

OpenAI has announced the launch of GPT-5.4, a new foundation model designed to support complex professional work across a range of industries. The company describes the system as its most capable and efficient frontier model to date, highlighting improvements in performance, reasoning ability and adaptability for real-world applications. The new model arrives as artificial intelligence continues to play a growing role in professional workflows. According to OpenAI, GPT-5.4 is intended to assist users with tasks that require advanced knowledge processing, including software development, financial analysis, research and technical problem solving. The company says the model has been optimized to handle demanding workloads while maintaining efficiency and accuracy. GPT-5.4 has been released in three separate variants, each tailored to different use cases. The standard version is designed to provide balanced performance across a wide range of tasks. A specialized reasoning model, known as GPT-5.4 Thinking, focuses on deeper analytical capabilities and structured problem solving. Meanwhile, GPT-5.4 Pro has been developed as a high-performance version intended for more intensive professional environments that require greater speed and computational power. The launch reflects a broader shift within the artificial intelligence sector as technology companies increasingly build AI systems specifically aimed at professional and enterprise applications. Developers and organizations are adopting advanced AI models to streamline coding processes, improve data analysis and accelerate research workflows. Industry observers note that the development of more specialized AI models could significantly influence how businesses integrate machine learning tools into everyday operations. As companies continue to explore the potential of generative AI and large language models, systems such as GPT-5.4 are expected to play a central role in shaping the next phase of AI-driven productivity and innovation.

World No.1 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has announced her engagement to her partner, Georgios Frangulis, on March 4, 2026. Sabalenka shared a heartfelt clip on Instagram showcasing the emotional proposal, which took place in a romantic setting with flowers and candles. Frangulis, founder of the Oakberry brand, presented Sabalenka with a diamond ring, and the moment was filled with love as Sabalenka accepted the ring with joy and surprise. The announcement was warmly received by the tennis co

India is preparing to buy five additional squadrons of the Russian‑made S‑400 Triumf long‑range air defence missile system, a plan driven by the system’s highly effective performance during last year’s Operation Sindoor. The move aims to significantly bolster the Indian Air Force’s layered air defence network across both eastern and western fronts against evolving aerial threats. Defence ministry sources say the proposal from the Indian Air Force will soon be taken up fo

A nationwide recall has been issued in the United States for more than 3.2 million grill brushes manufactured by Weber after safety officials warned that metal bristles from the brushes can detach and create a serious risk of injury. The recall was announced following multiple complaints that loose wire bristles became stuck in food and were accidentally swallowed, leading to potential internal harm. The Consumer Product Safety Commission said the recall covers six different models of metal

In one of the wealthiest cities in the world, thousands of residents are living inside spaces barely larger than a mattress. Hong Kong, famous for its glittering skyline and ultra-luxury real estate, is also home to nearly 2 lakh people who survive in cramped 16-square-foot “coffin homes” hidden inside ageing buildings. For 14 consecutive years, Hong Kong has ranked as the world’s mo

Andhra Pradesh's Assembly saw an action-packed session today, marked by a brief yet intense protest from YS Jagan and his YCP MLAs. After a year of absence, the opposition leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy made a quick entry into the Assembly, along with his party members. They began their appearance by singing the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, before immediately raising slogans during the Governor's speech. The slogans, such as "Law and order must be saved," were aimed at dra

A record number of employees across the United States are expected to miss work on the morning following the Super Bowl, according to a new survey that highlights growing concerns about workplace attendance and productivity after one of the country’s most-watched sporting events. The annual absenteeism survey conducted by workforce management company UKG estimates that approximately 26.2 million workers plan to be absent the day after the game, marking one of the highest projected totals since the study began tracking post-event workplace trends. The findings suggest that many employees are planning their time away in advance rather than calling off unexpectedly. Most respondents indicated they intend to use paid time off or swap shifts with colleagues to accommodate late-night celebrations tied to the Super Bowl. These planned absences reflect a broader effort by workers to manage personal schedules responsibly while still participating in the festivities surrounding the NFL championship. However, the survey also found that not all absences will be scheduled. Roughly five million people reported they may call in sick or simply not report to work without prior notice. Such last-minute absenteeism can present operational challenges for businesses, particularly in industries that rely on hourly employees or strict staffing levels, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing. Employers in these sectors often experience increased strain when shifts must be covered unexpectedly. Human resources professionals note that the Super Bowl has increasingly become an unofficial national event, with celebrations often extending late into the night. As a result, attendance patterns the following Monday have become a predictable concern. Companies have responded in various ways, including offering flexible scheduling, remote work options, or encouraging employees to request PTO ahead of time to minimize disruptions. These strategies aim to maintain productivity while recognizing the cultural significance of the event. The projected absenteeism figures also underscore broader workplace trends related to employee engagement and work-life balance. Experts say that when organizations provide clear policies and flexible options, employees are more likely to communicate their needs and plan time off responsibly, reducing the impact of unscheduled absences. As millions tune in to watch the Super Bowl each year, businesses may need to continue adapting their staffing and attendance practices to accommodate the reality that the day after the game has become one of the most challenging for workplace attendance nationwide.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed on Wednesday that two federal agents involved in the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis have been placed on administrative leave, a move the agency described as routine procedure following any deadly use of force by federal officers. The announcement comes amid mounting public anger over ongoing immigration enforcement actions in Minnesota and increasing political pressure on the White House to address concerns about federal conduct on t

Bruce Springsteen has released a new protest song addressing recent fatal incidents in Minneapolis, using his music to respond to what he describes as escalating state violence tied to immigration enforcement. The song, titled Streets of Minneapolis, was unveiled this week and directly references the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, two individuals killed during encounters involving federal immigration agents. The release comes amid heightened tensions following an immigration

Keurig has issued a voluntary recall of more than 80,000 decaf coffee pods after discovering that the products may contain caffeine. The recall applies specifically to K-Cup pods labeled as McCafe Premium Roast Decaf Coffee, with a best-by date of November 17, 2026, and a UPC code of 043000073438. Consumers who purchased these pods are advised to check their inventory, as the product may not meet its labeled decaf specifications. The recall was initially announced on December 6, 2025,

Residents of a Farmingdale apartment complex are expressing frustration and concern after a weekend snowstorm left a key parking area unplowed, creating ongoing access and safety issues for tenants. The situation unfolded at the Farmingdale Gardens Apartment complex located on West Main Street, where residents say snow removal efforts appeared incomplete days after the storm passed through the region. According to a resident who lives at the complex, the main drive-through areas within the property were largely cleared, allowing limited vehicle movement through the site. Several sidewalks were also reported to be passable, suggesting that some snow removal work had been completed. However, the parking lot itself remained covered with snow, making it difficult for residents to safely reach their vehicles. The resident said the unplowed parking lot has created challenges for people attempting to commute to work or school, particularly during early morning hours when icy conditions are more likely. Vehicles were seen navigating uneven snow buildup, raising concerns about potential slips, falls, or vehicle damage. Residents also voiced unease about how emergency responders would access the area if a medical or fire-related situation were to arise. Beyond daily inconvenience, the lack of timely snow removal has prompted questions about winter preparedness and property management responsibilities. Residents noted that while storms are common during the winter season, consistent and thorough snow clearing is critical in multi-unit housing complexes where large numbers of people rely on shared parking facilities. The resident said management informed tenants that the parking lot would be addressed sometime on Tuesday, several days after the storm. Until then, residents said they were left to navigate hazardous conditions on their own. Some residents reported altering their schedules or seeking alternative transportation due to concerns about safely exiting the lot. Efforts were made to contact the property’s management for comment regarding the delay in snow removal and the concerns raised by residents. As of the latest update, no response had been provided. As winter weather continues to affect the region, residents say they hope for improved communication and quicker responses to ensure safe living conditions. The situation highlights the broader challenges property managers face during severe weather events and the importance of timely action to maintain access, safety, and trust among residents.

In a bold and surprising move, the Andhra Pradesh government has proposed banning social media access for children under the age of 16. This decision comes as part of an ongoing effort by the state government to protect the younger population from the harmful effects of social media platforms, including exposure to abusive content, misinformation, and online harassment. IT Minister Lokesh spoke with Bloomberg about this development, suggesting that the ban could be an effective way to safegua

Ratha Saptami, also known as Surya Jayanti, is a highly auspicious festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya, the Sun God. Celebrated on the seventh day (Saptami) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Magha month, this festival is observed with great devotion by millions of Hindus worldwide. In 2026, Ratha Saptami will be observed on January 25th. The day honors Lord Surya for his life-giving energy, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Th

China’s manufacturing success was attributed to cheap labour. That perception has now changed completely. Factory wages in China have climbed close to eight dollars per hour, far higher than those in Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, and India. By cost logic alone, China should have lost its position as the world’s manufacturing hub. Instead, it continues to dominate global production, contributing nearly 28 percent of worldwide manufacturing output. The reason lies not in wages, but in produc

In India’s corporate imagination, the age of 40 was once seen as the peak of professional maturity. It symbolised authority, stability, and leadership readiness. Today, however, that same milestone is quietly turning into a career fault line. Across industries, professionals report fewer interview calls, slower promotions, and an increasing sense of invisibility. Experience, once celebrated, is now being reframed as expensive, rigid, or culturally misaligned. The shift is subtle, rarely spo

WASHINGTON — A political art collective known as The Secret Handshake has installed a large-scale protest display near the U.S. Capitol, featuring a 10-foot-tall birthday card referencing an alleged message sent by President Donald Trump to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The installation appeared overnight along 3rd Street Northwest, across from the Capitol grounds between Madison Drive and Jefferson Drive, and is timed to coincide with Epstein’s birthday on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

Federal immigration authorities arrested more than 280 immigrants across Ohio during a multi-day enforcement operation conducted in mid-December, according to officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The arrests took place between Dec. 16 and Dec. 21 as part of what officials described as a targeted effort known as Operation Buckeye, which focused on Columbus and other parts of the state. The announcement of the arrests came amid growing public attention and protests

Iran witnessed a dramatic escalation in nationwide unrest as anti-Khamenei protests intensified following a rallying call by exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi. Demonstrations entered their 12th consecutive day, with residents across Tehran and other cities chanting slogans from homes and marching through streets despite heavy restrictions imposed by authorities. Late Thursday, internet connectivity and telephone services were abruptly cut across the country, triggering what monitorin

Central Ohio’s luxury real estate market closed out 2025 with several high-value residential transactions, as Franklin and Delaware counties recorded notable home sales during December. Property records show that the most expensive single-family home sold in Franklin County reached $2.45 million, while Delaware County’s top transaction closed at $1.2 million, reflecting continued demand for upscale housing across the region. In Franklin County, December’s highest-priced reside