🚢 Hormuz passage deal hits snags for shipping

A proposed deal regarding the Hormuz passage has been deemed unfeasible by multiple sources in the industry. This situation involves major shipping interests navigating geopolitical complexities. The negotiations have been ongoing, but specific dates for finalization are not yet set. The proposal aimed to streamline maritime transit through this critical waterway. Further discussions are expected to determine the viability of the passage agreement. 🚢

🛂 Trump plan could raise H-1B, L-1 visa costs

A potential plan under the Trump administration might increase the costs associated with H-1B and L-1 visa extensions. This policy change would specifically affect Indian professionals working in the US. The details of the increased fees are yet to be officially released, but the proposals are circulating. This move is being scrutinized by immigration experts and the tech community. It suggests a stricter approach to skilled worker immigration in the future. 💼

🐒 Monkeys care for animals outside their family, just like us

A new Springer study systematically reviewed 427 cases of inter-species social interactions involving primates. This research found interactions across at least 88 primate species and 127 non-primate species, happening both in the wild and captivity. The documented encounters suggest that caring and curiosity are ancient traits shared across primates, not just humans. Play and grooming were common behaviors, with young primates showing the most curiosity. These findings offer insights into the evolutionary roots of human-animal partnerships.

⚽ Rodri ditches Madrid, teams up with Barcelona

Manchester City's midfielder Rodri Hernández has reportedly agreed to personal terms with FC Barcelona. This move places Barcelona in the lead as they now negotiate with the English club for the signing. The potential transfer was reported on Tuesday by MARCA, Fabrice Hawkins, and Fabrizio Romano. Rodri is apparently drawn to Barcelona's footballing style and his potential reunion with eight Spanish World Cup squad members. Real Madrid remains in the race but will need a significant effort to secure the midfielder.

💥 Houthi attacks kill 30+ Yemeni forces in Yemen

Houthi rebel attacks reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 30 Yemeni government troops. These strikes targeted several Emergency Forces camps in Marib province and Hadramawt province. The attacks occurred after the Houthis claimed they were targeting large Saudi military build-ups. Health Minister Qasim Bahibah condemned the assault as an attempt to destabilize security. The conflict continues amidst a wider civil war devastating Yemen since 2014. 😟

⚖️ Bombay High Court steps in on doctor strikes

The Bombay High Court orally stated it plans to establish a ruling that prevents doctors from engaging in strikes. This came as the Indian Medical Association (IMA) announced the end of its ongoing agitation in Maharashtra. The protest was happening over a government resolution allowing homeopathy practitioners to register under the MMC and prescribe modern medicines. The court's observation signals a significant stance on medical professional actions in the region. This development sets a new precedent regarding doctors' right to strike. ⚖️

😠 Body transport controversy sparks outrage

CPI(M) leader V. Sivankutty demanded action against officials regarding the transport of R. Rajesh's body. The incident took place in Kannur, involving the transfer of the swimming instructor's body from Kannur to Thiruvananthapuram. Rajesh passed away while saving someone in flood waters, and his body was released on Tuesday after post-mortem at 8:30 p.m. The Revenue and Health departments allegedly refused a freezer ambulance citing lack of funds. Relatives eventually had to use a private ambulance due to decomposition and foul smell.

✊ Protest planned against corporate policies in Shivamogga

Progressive organizations in Shivamogga are planning a massive rally against anti-farmer and anti-labour policies. Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha president H.R. Basavarajappa announced this during a press conference in Shivamogga on Thursday. The protest is scheduled for Monday, aiming to repeal labour codes and oppose privatization. The movement also calls for a guaranteed minimum support price for farmers and opposes land acquisition. Participants will gather at Shivappa Nayaka Circle at 10:30 a.m. on the day.

🧐 PAC grills Defence Ministry over pay issues and bad infra

The Parliament's PAC, led by K.C. Venugopal, questioned the Ministry of Defence regarding a CAG report. This audit covered pay management across 46 offices, totaling ₹3,09,975.07 crore between 2020-21 and 2022-23. The report revealed that pay processing averages 68 to 80 days, and 50,646 personnel missed out on allowances. Furthermore, twelve hospitals use century-old buildings, and six had unlicensed X-ray machines. The Ministry confirmed corrective measures are being implemented, including an IT integration module. 🧐

💻 Junaid: The IT Cell's Biggest Headache

Junaid has become a major issue for the IT cell regarding recent system malfunctions. He was identified as the source of the persistent technical glitches at the university campus. The issues began around the first week of October and have been reported consistently since then. This situation is creating significant operational delays across various departments needing IT support. The IT cell is currently investigating the root cause to implement a permanent fix.

🏛️ 400-year-old Goan mansion revived into a museum

Figueiredo House, a structure dating back to 1590, was once neglected and looked like a ghost house. Pedro Novais, who belongs to the nineteenth generation, is the custodian of this family home in Loutolim, Goa. The family decided to restore it after it fell into disrepair, starting in 2014. They opted for preservation over modern modifications to honor ancestral traditions. Now, the house operates as a heritage homestay and museum for visitors.