Scientists solve the mystery of the Justinian Plague. They identify Yersinia pestis as the cause. The plague devastated the Byzantine Empire. DNA from a mass grave in Jerash, Jordan confirms this. Jerash was a key trade hub. The study shows how pandemics reshape societies. Plague is a recurring threat. Understanding past outbreaks helps prepare for future ones. Vigilance is crucial.
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UPI achieved a new peak in August 2025, processing over 2,001 crore transactions worth Rs 24.85 lakh crore, marking a milestone. This reflects a 34% year-on-year volume increase, although the total value saw a slight dip from July. Daily averages reached 64.5 crore transactions, valued at Rs 80,177 crore, highlighting UPI's continued growth since its 2016 launch by NPCI.
Pahlaj Nihalani, the former CBFC chief, revisits the 'Udta Punjab' censorship debate, asserting that the film's language was passed with necessary cuts. He criticizes Prasoon Joshi's absence from the CBFC and highlights the rise of streaming platforms post his tenure.
India's cricket team concluded their Dubai practice, gearing up to defend their Asia Cup title. Key players like Gill and Yadav participated in batting sessions, while Bumrah rejoined after a break. The team, under coach Gambhir, is set to face UAE, Pakistan, and Oman in Group A, aiming to continue their Asia Cup dominance.
Assam's cabinet has approved a new SOP requiring special branch clearance for inter-religious land transactions, citing concerns about national security and demographic shifts. This measure aims to prevent fraudulent land transfers that could incite communal tension and ensure constitutional principles are upheld. The policy also targets NGOs from outside Assam seeking land, reflecting anxieties over changing demographics and land encroachments.
US Senator Rand Paul has criticised the Trump administration's decision to invest in Intel. He views it as a move towards socialism. The government invested $8.9 billion in Intel common stock. Donald Trump had earlier announced a stake in Nvidia and AMD chip sales to China. Senator Bernie Sanders supported tying government subsidies to public ownership.
Pakistan is forcing out thousands of registered Afghan refugees amidst a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, triggered by a recent devastating earthquake. Despite holding official UN registration, families are fleeing due to fear of arrest and harassment, exacerbating the challenges faced by a nation already grappling with immense loss and destruction.
Amit Shah launched the BJP's Assam assembly election campaign at the NDA Panchayat Pratinidhi Sammelan in Guwahati, expressing confidence in securing a third consecutive term. He emphasized the party's commitment to protecting Assamese identity by addressing infiltration and land encroachment. Shah criticized the Congress, accusing them of sympathizing with infiltrators and undermining Assam's cultural values.
Across the globe, anti-immigration movements are surging, fueled by economic anxieties, cultural clashes, and geopolitical upheaval. Political leaders and influencers amplify these sentiments, framing immigration as a threat to national identity and security. Despite evidence of migrants' economic contributions, fear-driven narratives dominate, polarizing societies and shaping policy debates.
NGC 7027, also known as the Pillow Planetary Nebula, is a bright, compact nebula located 3,000 light-years away in Cygnus. Its unique four-cornered shape, possibly caused by a central binary star system, makes it a target for scientific study and astrophotography. This nebula provides insights into stellar life cycles and the chemical enrichment of space.
Michael Clarke, former Australia cricket captain, had another skin cancer surgery. This time, doctors removed a lesion from his nose. Clarke has had multiple skin cancer procedures since 2006. He is urging people to get regular skin checks. He highlights the importance of early detection, especially in sun-intense countries like Australia. Skin cancer is a real threat, he says.