🦇 Bats popped up in Europe 65 million years ago

A massive combined bat genome and fossil study reveals that flying mammals first evolved in Europe approximately 65 million years ago. This discovery was made by researchers analyzing 103 bat species and 44 fossil bats. The study found that flight and echolocation developed early on to help them navigate and hunt. These abilities allowed bats to move into new niches, especially hunting at night. This research could eventually guide human studies on aging and disease resistance. 🦇

⚛️ DRDO inks big deal with startup for quantum tech ⚛️

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) signed its first high-value deep-tech contract with a startup for a quantum project. This agreement was made in New Delhi between the Director, TDF, and Zero mK India Private Limited from Alwar, Rajasthan. The project is the first high-value deal under the Rs 500 crore corpus approved by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Developing a 20 millikelvin dilution refrigerator strengthens India's quantum capabilities and reduces import reliance. This move aligns with the National Quantum Mission, boosting the self-reliant quantum ecosystem.

🏛️ Tata Sons says Chandrasekaran's reappointment is valid

Tata Sons formally stated to Noel Tata that N Chandrasekaran's reappointment as chairman was legally sound and followed internal governance rules. This response addressed concerns raised by the Tata Trusts, which control the majority stake in Tata Sons. The dispute involved claims over the decision-making process within the 158-year-old Tata group. Tata Sons backed its stance with three legal opinions from lawyers and former Supreme Court judges. Chandrasekaran's future depends on a separate board vote, as his directorship must be reapproved. 🧐

🏥 Health insurance scheme gets a technical committee

The state government has formed a technical committee to prepare the Detailed Project Report for the Oommen Chandy Health Insurance Scheme. This committee is based in the state and includes experts from insurance sectors. The report, detailing the scheme's roadmap, must be submitted within four months from the announcement date of Revised Budget 2026–27. The committee will define objectives, coverage, and financial modalities for the ₹25 lakh cover. They will also recommend the necessary IT platform and implementation phases. 🏥

🍷 CA wine giants face financial meltdown

California's wine industry is facing a major financial crisis as two long-standing wineries hit hard. Signorello Estate and Gundlach Bundschu are in trouble in Napa Valley. Signorello faces foreclosure on October 2, while Gundlach Bundschu has filed for bankruptcy. The downturn is due to debt taken during boom times, followed by pandemic, wildfires, and weak demand. Lenders are also increasing interest rates, leaving both wineries with limited options. 🍷

🤝 Karnataka ready to share loan waiver cost with Centre

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that Karnataka is willing to share the financial burden of a farm loan waiver if the Union government announces it. This statement was made in the Legislative Assembly in Bengaluru on Thursday amidst demands from the Opposition. The Chief Minister proposed a potential Centre-State ratio of 60:40 for the waiver. He urged for unity to plead with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce the relief measures. Shivakumar also mentioned that the state has fodder stock for 33 weeks. 🌾

😔 Stalin slams TVK over Veeramani case claims

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin rejected claims from TVK that the DMK government shielded granite baron R Veeramani in a POCSO case. The case involves allegations against Veeramani, who is linked to disturbing visuals of minors. An expanded probe, after a special court rejected a closure report, has identified over seven minor survivors. Stalin asserted that no DMK order existed to protect anyone in this high-profile matter. He called the TVK allegations false and defamatory, emphasizing justice for the victims. 😔

🎮 GTA 6 Collector's Edition drops with huge swag

Rockstar Games unveiled the "Grand Theft Auto 6: The Goodtime State – Vice City Collection" for pre-order. This special edition is for fans and is available from the official Rockstar Store. It costs $399.99 and is scheduled to release on November 19, 2026. The hefty package includes over a dozen themed physical items, like a 6" figure and sunglasses. Shipping is confirmed for numerous countries, though Asia and Australia will get access later.

⛽ Oil prices pull back on US-Iran deal buzz

Crude oil traded near $94 per barrel on Thursday, cooling a peak of $97 amidst hopes of a US-Iran deal. Negotiators were exploring lifting naval blockades and easing sanctions on the Iranian economy. Recent strikes and pipeline attacks caused GCC oil exports to nearly halt. This supply crunch forced OPEC members to cut production, with Saudi output hitting a low since 1990. Lower Chinese stocks and low US SPR reserves add to the market pressure. ⛽

🏏 Lawrence century crushes Somerset's title hopes

Dan Lawrence scored his sixth Rothesay County Championship century while Surrey dominated the first day of the final Division One match at Taunton. Surrey posted a total of 327 for 4, with Lawrence leading the charge with an unbeaten 105 runs. This performance effectively snuffed out Somerset's chances of winning the Championship title. Dom Sibley scored 72 runs, and Ben Foakes added 64 not out to the strong total. The match continues as Surrey builds a commanding lead against the visitors.

📜 Assam mandates Muslim marriage registration rules

The Assam Cabinet approved new rules making Muslim marriage registration compulsory across the state on September 24, 2026. This action operationalizes the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Act, 2024, replacing an older 1935 legislation. The new law sets minimum ages at 18 for women and 21 for men, shifting registration to government officials. The framework ensures formal State documentation and protects the rights of married individuals. Additionally, a special ₹1,500 Puja bonus was announced for Arunodoi scheme beneficiaries in October.