Australian Scientists Develop Biodegradable Plastic from Milk Protein
In a groundbreaking development, researchers at Flinders University in Australia have unveiled a biodegradable plastic-like film made from milk protein. This innovative material, designed for food packaging, can break down entirely in soil within just 13 weeks, offering a potential eco-friendly alternative to traditional single-use plastics that are a major contributor to global pollution. The biodegradable material, created using calcium caseinate, a protein derived from milk, is c
Australian Scientists Develop Biodegradable Plastic from Milk Protein
In a groundbreaking development, researchers at Flinders University in Australia have unveiled a biodegradable plastic-like film made from milk protein. This innovative material, designed for food packaging, can break down entirely in soil within just 13 weeks, offering a potential eco-friendly alternative to traditional single-use plastics that are a major contributor to global pollution. The biodegradable material, created using calcium caseinate, a protein derived from milk, is c
PM Modi To Visit Kerala On March 11, Launch Major Projects Before Assembly Polls
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Kerala on March 11 as political activity intensifies ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The one day visit is expected to focus on both development initiatives and political outreach, with several major events planned in Kochi, the state’s largest city and a key financial centre. The visit comes at a significant time when political parties are preparing for the Assembly polls expected to take place later this year.
PM Modi To Visit Kerala On March 11, Launch Major Projects Before Assembly Polls
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Kerala on March 11 as political activity intensifies ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The one day visit is expected to focus on both development initiatives and political outreach, with several major events planned in Kochi, the state’s largest city and a key financial centre. The visit comes at a significant time when political parties are preparing for the Assembly polls expected to take place later this year.
Mamata Banerjee Faces Heat Over President Murmu Visit Controversy
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
Mamata Banerjee Faces Heat Over President Murmu Visit Controversy
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
Revanth Reddy Blesses Newlyweds Rashmika and Vijay at Home
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy recently visited the Hyderabad home of newlywed actors Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna to offer his blessings and congratulations. The couple, who had kept their wedding private, had tied the knot on February 26 in an intimate ceremony in Udaipur with only close family and friends present. The wedding had long been speculated upon by fans, and the announcement of their union finally put those rumors to rest. Following their ceremony, Vijay and
Revanth Reddy Blesses Newlyweds Rashmika and Vijay at Home
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy recently visited the Hyderabad home of newlywed actors Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna to offer his blessings and congratulations. The couple, who had kept their wedding private, had tied the knot on February 26 in an intimate ceremony in Udaipur with only close family and friends present. The wedding had long been speculated upon by fans, and the announcement of their union finally put those rumors to rest. Following their ceremony, Vijay and
US–Israel–Iran War | Farah Pahlavi says Khamenei’s death won’t automatically end Iran’s system
Farah Pahlavi has described the death of Ali Khamenei as historically significant but cautioned that it would not automatically dismantle Iran’s political system. Speaking to AFP on Tuesday, March 3, the former empress said that while Khamenei had been central to the architecture of power within the Islamic republic, the passing of a single individual does not necessarily signal the collapse of an entrenched system. Pahlavi, who has lived in exile in Paris since the 1979 revolutio
US–Israel–Iran War | Farah Pahlavi says Khamenei’s death won’t automatically end Iran’s system
Farah Pahlavi has described the death of Ali Khamenei as historically significant but cautioned that it would not automatically dismantle Iran’s political system. Speaking to AFP on Tuesday, March 3, the former empress said that while Khamenei had been central to the architecture of power within the Islamic republic, the passing of a single individual does not necessarily signal the collapse of an entrenched system. Pahlavi, who has lived in exile in Paris since the 1979 revolutio
Congress Pushes for Rajya Sabha Seat in Maharashtra: A Test for MVA Alliance
As 72 Rajya Sabha seats fall vacant in 2026, Congress finds itself in a precarious situation in Maharashtra. The party is engaged in intense negotiations within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance to secure the state's lone Rajya Sabha seat. This move has been dubbed a “mathematical necessity” to protect the party's national standing in the Upper House, with the party facing a crucial test of numbers. Congress currently holds 27 Rajya Sabha seats, but the imminent retirements o
Congress Pushes for Rajya Sabha Seat in Maharashtra: A Test for MVA Alliance
As 72 Rajya Sabha seats fall vacant in 2026, Congress finds itself in a precarious situation in Maharashtra. The party is engaged in intense negotiations within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance to secure the state's lone Rajya Sabha seat. This move has been dubbed a “mathematical necessity” to protect the party's national standing in the Upper House, with the party facing a crucial test of numbers. Congress currently holds 27 Rajya Sabha seats, but the imminent retirements o
Canada says no ongoing India link to violent crimes ahead of Mark Carney visit
Canada has indicated a significant shift in its position on India, stating that it no longer believes New Delhi is linked to violent crimes or ongoing foreign interference within Canadian territory. The remarks were made during a briefing with journalists ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s scheduled nine-day visit to India, which includes stops in Mumbai and New Delhi and a planned meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Senior Canadian officials said there is currently no evidence of continued foreign interference or violent activity tied to India. One official noted that diplomatic engagement between the two countries remains robust, including regular communication between national security advisers. The official added that the visit would not be taking place if authorities believed such activities were still ongoing. The statement marks a notable change from Canada’s earlier stance, when concerns about alleged foreign interference had strained bilateral ties. Relations between Ottawa and New Delhi deteriorated sharply following the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurdwara in British Columbia. Months after the incident, then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that there was credible evidence linking agents of the Indian government to the killing. India strongly denied the allegations, calling them unfounded. The dispute escalated into a diplomatic standoff, with both countries expelling senior diplomats. In 2024, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police alleged that individuals linked to the Indian government were associated with violent crimes in Canada, including death threats and possible involvement in homicides. However, the latest comments from Canadian officials suggest that authorities no longer see active or continuing interference connected to India. The evolving position has drawn mixed reactions. Moninder Singh, a religious leader in British Columbia, said that Vancouver police had recently warned him of an imminent threat to his life and that of his family. Meanwhile, members of Sikhs for Justice staged protests on Parliament Hill, criticizing the government’s renewed engagement with India and expressing concern over the Nijjar case. Indian officials have consistently maintained that they are willing to cooperate with Canadian authorities within the framework of the law. India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa, Dinesh Patnaik, has previously emphasized that disagreements should be resolved through dialogue rather than actions that damage the broader relationship. He described recent discussions between the two countries’ national security advisers, including a visit by NSA Ajit Doval to Ottawa, as an important step toward strengthening bilateral security cooperation. Carney’s visit is being viewed as part of Ottawa’s effort to adopt a more pragmatic foreign policy approach and to deepen economic and strategic ties with India. With trade, investment, and security collaboration on the agenda, both sides appear to be seeking a reset after months of diplomatic friction. While the Nijjar case remains before the courts and political sensitivities persist, the latest statements suggest a willingness from both governments to stabilize relations and rebuild trust through sustained engagement.
Canada says no ongoing India link to violent crimes ahead of Mark Carney visit
Canada has indicated a significant shift in its position on India, stating that it no longer believes New Delhi is linked to violent crimes or ongoing foreign interference within Canadian territory. The remarks were made during a briefing with journalists ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s scheduled nine-day visit to India, which includes stops in Mumbai and New Delhi and a planned meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Senior Canadian officials said there is currently no evidence of continued foreign interference or violent activity tied to India. One official noted that diplomatic engagement between the two countries remains robust, including regular communication between national security advisers. The official added that the visit would not be taking place if authorities believed such activities were still ongoing. The statement marks a notable change from Canada’s earlier stance, when concerns about alleged foreign interference had strained bilateral ties. Relations between Ottawa and New Delhi deteriorated sharply following the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurdwara in British Columbia. Months after the incident, then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that there was credible evidence linking agents of the Indian government to the killing. India strongly denied the allegations, calling them unfounded. The dispute escalated into a diplomatic standoff, with both countries expelling senior diplomats. In 2024, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police alleged that individuals linked to the Indian government were associated with violent crimes in Canada, including death threats and possible involvement in homicides. However, the latest comments from Canadian officials suggest that authorities no longer see active or continuing interference connected to India. The evolving position has drawn mixed reactions. Moninder Singh, a religious leader in British Columbia, said that Vancouver police had recently warned him of an imminent threat to his life and that of his family. Meanwhile, members of Sikhs for Justice staged protests on Parliament Hill, criticizing the government’s renewed engagement with India and expressing concern over the Nijjar case. Indian officials have consistently maintained that they are willing to cooperate with Canadian authorities within the framework of the law. India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa, Dinesh Patnaik, has previously emphasized that disagreements should be resolved through dialogue rather than actions that damage the broader relationship. He described recent discussions between the two countries’ national security advisers, including a visit by NSA Ajit Doval to Ottawa, as an important step toward strengthening bilateral security cooperation. Carney’s visit is being viewed as part of Ottawa’s effort to adopt a more pragmatic foreign policy approach and to deepen economic and strategic ties with India. With trade, investment, and security collaboration on the agenda, both sides appear to be seeking a reset after months of diplomatic friction. While the Nijjar case remains before the courts and political sensitivities persist, the latest statements suggest a willingness from both governments to stabilize relations and rebuild trust through sustained engagement.
Narendra Modi receives rare honours from both Israel and Palestine
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Wednesday conferred with the prestigious Speaker of the Knesset Medal, marking a significant milestone in India-Israel relations. The honour, considered the highest award of Israel’s Parliament, was presented in recognition of Modi’s exceptional contribution to strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana presented the medal to the Indian prime minister following his address to the Israeli Parliam
Narendra Modi receives rare honours from both Israel and Palestine
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Wednesday conferred with the prestigious Speaker of the Knesset Medal, marking a significant milestone in India-Israel relations. The honour, considered the highest award of Israel’s Parliament, was presented in recognition of Modi’s exceptional contribution to strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana presented the medal to the Indian prime minister following his address to the Israeli Parliam
Trump to visit Texas as GOP Senate primary race intensifies
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is expected to travel to Texas on Friday, timing his visit with the final day of early voting and just days before the state’s closely watched Republican primary. The trip, confirmed by a White House official, will take place in Corpus Christi, although specific details about the event have not yet been publicly released. State Representative Stan Gerdes said the announcement prompted him to move a previously scheduled campaign appearance with
Trump to visit Texas as GOP Senate primary race intensifies
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is expected to travel to Texas on Friday, timing his visit with the final day of early voting and just days before the state’s closely watched Republican primary. The trip, confirmed by a White House official, will take place in Corpus Christi, although specific details about the event have not yet been publicly released. State Representative Stan Gerdes said the announcement prompted him to move a previously scheduled campaign appearance with
Iran deploys security forces to universities amid growing student protests
Iranian authorities on Tuesday deployed plainclothes police and armed security personnel across several universities in an effort to contain a fourth consecutive day of student protests directed at Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The heightened security presence reflects growing concern within the government over expanding campus unrest and the potential for demonstrations to spread further. Clashes were reported at multiple academic institutions, including Tehran’s Univers
Iran deploys security forces to universities amid growing student protests
Iranian authorities on Tuesday deployed plainclothes police and armed security personnel across several universities in an effort to contain a fourth consecutive day of student protests directed at Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The heightened security presence reflects growing concern within the government over expanding campus unrest and the potential for demonstrations to spread further. Clashes were reported at multiple academic institutions, including Tehran’s Univers
RBI and Nirmala Sitharaman Target Mis-selling in Banking Sector with New Guidelines
India’s financial sector has been grappling with the persistent issue of mis-selling, especially in the realm of banking and insurance products. In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the ongoing concern, declaring that banks cannot treat mis-selling as a routine part of their business. She went as far as to say that mis-selling is an "offence," sending a clear message to financial institutions that such practices will not be tolerated. Her remarks came at a pr
RBI and Nirmala Sitharaman Target Mis-selling in Banking Sector with New Guidelines
India’s financial sector has been grappling with the persistent issue of mis-selling, especially in the realm of banking and insurance products. In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the ongoing concern, declaring that banks cannot treat mis-selling as a routine part of their business. She went as far as to say that mis-selling is an "offence," sending a clear message to financial institutions that such practices will not be tolerated. Her remarks came at a pr
Shikhar Dhawan Denies False Personal Life Claims After Second Marriage to Sophie Shine
Shikhar Dhawan, the former Indian cricketer, has responded strongly to false rumors circulating about his personal life following his second marriage to Sophie Shine. The controversy started after a viral social media post claimed that Dhawan had said his ex-wife, Aesha Dhawan, once told him that no one would marry him after their separation. The post suggested that Dhawan’s remarriage was his way of proving her wrong. However, Dhawan firmly denied making such statements, calling the claims
Shikhar Dhawan Denies False Personal Life Claims After Second Marriage to Sophie Shine
Shikhar Dhawan, the former Indian cricketer, has responded strongly to false rumors circulating about his personal life following his second marriage to Sophie Shine. The controversy started after a viral social media post claimed that Dhawan had said his ex-wife, Aesha Dhawan, once told him that no one would marry him after their separation. The post suggested that Dhawan’s remarriage was his way of proving her wrong. However, Dhawan firmly denied making such statements, calling the claims
New Jersey Transit to resume bus and rail services Tuesday morning
New Jersey Transit is preparing to restore bus and rail operations Tuesday morning, though officials caution that riders should expect modified service and potential delays. The announcement was made Monday evening by agency President and CEO Kris Kolluri, who outlined the phased return plan for commuters across the state. According to Kolluri, bus services are scheduled to begin running at 4 a.m. Tuesday. However, normal routing may not be fully in place, as some detours and delays could occur depending on overnight road conditions. TransitNJ officials are urging passengers to allow extra travel time during the morning commute and to monitor real-time updates before departing. Rail operations are expected to resume an hour later, beginning at 5 a.m., but the full network restoration depends on ongoing infrastructure work. Amtrak crews are working overnight on critical switch repairs within shared rail corridors. Kolluri noted that if the Amtrak work is not completed on schedule, certain lines may face continued disruptions. Specifically, the Raritan Valley Line and the North Jersey Coast Line could remain suspended, and the Northeast Corridor Line may be unable to make some local stops. Even where trains resume service, riders should anticipate a reduced timetable. Officials confirmed that all rail routes will operate under a modified weekend schedule for the time being. This temporary measure is intended to stabilize operations while crews complete remaining repairs and assess system conditions. Transit authorities emphasized that safety and reliability remain the top priorities as service gradually returns. Commuters across New Jersey are advised to check official travel alerts frequently and plan ahead for possible changes during the first day of resumed operations.
New Jersey Transit to resume bus and rail services Tuesday morning
New Jersey Transit is preparing to restore bus and rail operations Tuesday morning, though officials caution that riders should expect modified service and potential delays. The announcement was made Monday evening by agency President and CEO Kris Kolluri, who outlined the phased return plan for commuters across the state. According to Kolluri, bus services are scheduled to begin running at 4 a.m. Tuesday. However, normal routing may not be fully in place, as some detours and delays could occur depending on overnight road conditions. TransitNJ officials are urging passengers to allow extra travel time during the morning commute and to monitor real-time updates before departing. Rail operations are expected to resume an hour later, beginning at 5 a.m., but the full network restoration depends on ongoing infrastructure work. Amtrak crews are working overnight on critical switch repairs within shared rail corridors. Kolluri noted that if the Amtrak work is not completed on schedule, certain lines may face continued disruptions. Specifically, the Raritan Valley Line and the North Jersey Coast Line could remain suspended, and the Northeast Corridor Line may be unable to make some local stops. Even where trains resume service, riders should anticipate a reduced timetable. Officials confirmed that all rail routes will operate under a modified weekend schedule for the time being. This temporary measure is intended to stabilize operations while crews complete remaining repairs and assess system conditions. Transit authorities emphasized that safety and reliability remain the top priorities as service gradually returns. Commuters across New Jersey are advised to check official travel alerts frequently and plan ahead for possible changes during the first day of resumed operations.
Mark Carney to visit India to boost Canada-India ties
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a high-profile visit to India as part of a broader Indo-Pacific tour, in what officials describe as a significant step toward revitalizing bilateral relations that have faced strain in recent years. The visit, scheduled from February 26 to March 7, 2026, will also include stops in Australia and Japan, reflecting Ottawa’s strategic focus on strengthening partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region. Carney’s itinerary begins in Mum
Mark Carney to visit India to boost Canada-India ties
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a high-profile visit to India as part of a broader Indo-Pacific tour, in what officials describe as a significant step toward revitalizing bilateral relations that have faced strain in recent years. The visit, scheduled from February 26 to March 7, 2026, will also include stops in Australia and Japan, reflecting Ottawa’s strategic focus on strengthening partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region. Carney’s itinerary begins in Mum
From Rs 350 Crore AI Bet to Robodog Row: Galgotias’ 12-Day AI Crisis
On February 6, Galgotias University made headlines with a bold announcement: it had invested more than Rs 350 crore in artificial intelligence infrastructure, calling it the largest AI investment by any private university in India. The statement positioned the institution as a future global AI powerhouse, citing partnerships, supercomputing infrastructure, and ambitions aligned with global leaders s
From Rs 350 Crore AI Bet to Robodog Row: Galgotias’ 12-Day AI Crisis
On February 6, Galgotias University made headlines with a bold announcement: it had invested more than Rs 350 crore in artificial intelligence infrastructure, calling it the largest AI investment by any private university in India. The statement positioned the institution as a future global AI powerhouse, citing partnerships, supercomputing infrastructure, and ambitions aligned with global leaders s
Rahul Gandhi Slams AI Summit as PR Spectacle After Galgotias Robodog Controversy
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified his criticism of the Narendra Modi-led government following a controversy at the AI Impact Summit 2026, where a robot dog displayed by Galgotias University was alleged to be a Chinese product rather than an indigenous innovation. Taking to social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi described the event as a disorganised PR spectacle, accusing the government of
Rahul Gandhi Slams AI Summit as PR Spectacle After Galgotias Robodog Controversy
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified his criticism of the Narendra Modi-led government following a controversy at the AI Impact Summit 2026, where a robot dog displayed by Galgotias University was alleged to be a Chinese product rather than an indigenous innovation. Taking to social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi described the event as a disorganised PR spectacle, accusing the government of
India France Sign 20 Deals In Defence AI And Trade During Macron India Visit 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron elevated bilateral ties to a new level by signing more than 20 agreements across defence, artificial intelligence, trade, skilling, health and critical technologies during high-level talks in Mumbai. The agreements were announced during President Macron’s three-day visit to India from February 17 to 19, where he is also attending the AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Na
India France Sign 20 Deals In Defence AI And Trade During Macron India Visit 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron elevated bilateral ties to a new level by signing more than 20 agreements across defence, artificial intelligence, trade, skilling, health and critical technologies during high-level talks in Mumbai. The agreements were announced during President Macron’s three-day visit to India from February 17 to 19, where he is also attending the AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Na
Amtrak portal bridge cutover to disrupt NJ Transit service for one month
Amtrak will begin a significant phase of rail infrastructure work on Feb. 15 as crews transfer train operations from the aging Portal Bridge to the newly constructed Portal North Bridge across the Hackensack River, a month-long effort expected to disrupt regular service for thousands of daily commuters in northern New Jersey and New York City. The transition, commonly referred to as a cutover, is designed to prepare the new span to handle active rail traffic and marks a key step in a broader
Amtrak portal bridge cutover to disrupt NJ Transit service for one month
Amtrak will begin a significant phase of rail infrastructure work on Feb. 15 as crews transfer train operations from the aging Portal Bridge to the newly constructed Portal North Bridge across the Hackensack River, a month-long effort expected to disrupt regular service for thousands of daily commuters in northern New Jersey and New York City. The transition, commonly referred to as a cutover, is designed to prepare the new span to handle active rail traffic and marks a key step in a broader
James Van Der Beek dies at 47 after battle with colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek, the actor widely recognized for his breakout role on television drama Dawson’s Creek and the sports film Varsity Blues, has died following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He was 47. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed his death in a message shared on social media, describing his final days as peaceful and marked by courage, faith, and grace as the family gathered around him. In her statement, Kimberly said he faced the end of his life with stren
James Van Der Beek dies at 47 after battle with colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek, the actor widely recognized for his breakout role on television drama Dawson’s Creek and the sports film Varsity Blues, has died following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He was 47. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed his death in a message shared on social media, describing his final days as peaceful and marked by courage, faith, and grace as the family gathered around him. In her statement, Kimberly said he faced the end of his life with stren
YS Jagan Attends Andhra Pradesh Assembly After a Year, Walks Out in 10 Minutes
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
YS Jagan Attends Andhra Pradesh Assembly After a Year, Walks Out in 10 Minutes
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









