🛰️ Pioneer Eknath Chitnis: Builder of Indian Space

Professor Eknath Vasant Chitnis, a foundational figure in India's space program, passed away on October 22, 2025, at the age of 100. He was a close associate of Dr Vikram Sarabhai and helped shape INCOSPAR, which evolved into ISRO. Chitnis was instrumental in selecting Thumba for India's first rocket launch on November 21, 1963. He also recognized the potential of a young APJ Abdul Kalam and supported the SITE project in 1975–76. This experiment broadcasted educational content to 2,400 remote villages across India. 🛰️

🚢 US tightens aerial protection for tankers in Hormuz Strait

The United States has restricted the windows of aerial protection for tankers navigating through the Strait of Hormuz. This action impacts shipping routes in the region, affecting global energy transit. The changes were implemented following recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The move reflects a shift in US military strategy regarding maritime security in the Gulf. Further updates on the revised protection schedule are expected in the coming weeks. 🚢

🏡 Can bespoke luxury villas scale up?

Isprava Group is challenging conventional luxury by crafting unique, history-rich villas in Goa. The company, founded by Dhimaan and Nibhrant Shah, has expanded from a boutique developer into a lifestyle brand spanning homes, rentals, and a private club. They insist no two properties are alike, incorporating salvaged architectural fragments and handcrafted elements. This model blends global design expectations with local materials, prioritizing air, light, and low-density construction. The business now offers comprehensive management services, blurring the line between private residence and luxury hotel.

🚫 Anti-superstition group pushes back on govt's astrological clocks

The Anti-superstition body, Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti, requested the cancellation of the Maharashtra government's plan to install astrological time devices. This decision concerns the State Secretariat and the State Legislature in Maharashtra. The initial plan involved spending close to ₹11 Lakh for two such instruments, as per the September 4 order. The group argues this legitimizes astrological beliefs and violates the Constitution's mandate for scientific temper. They demand a clear separation between genuine astronomy and unscientific astrology in government spaces. 🏛️

🎖️ Major Rishabh Sambyal on sacrificing personal life

Rishabh Sambyal, a retired Major, revealed that he chose not to marry due to his role as the President's ADC. He served for 12 years in the Army, including his time with President Droupadi Murmu. He stated that the ADC role mandated him to put personal relationships and marriage on hold. Sambyal explained that this constant service meant having no life outside of his duties. Moving forward, he continues to use moments of solitude for self-reflection. 🫡

🤔 Same iPhone, Lakh More in India?

The price difference for the same iPhone model in India has sparked major discussion among consumers. This pricing gap has been observed across various tech gadgets within the Indian market. Specific figures show a noticeable premium when compared to international pricing structures. This raises questions about local market dynamics and potential import duties affecting consumers. Authorities are expected to look into these disparities to ensure fair pricing moving forward. 🧐

🏛️ Bharat Mandapam hosts BRICS Summit in Delhi

World leaders are gathering in New Delhi for the 2026 BRICS summit, which will be hosted at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam. This massive venue, located in Pragati Maidan, was built across 123 acres at a cost of Rs 2,700 crore and opened in 2023. The summit will see crucial discussions on global issues like the Russia-Ukraine war and AI over the next two days. The complex, inspired by Indian civilization, can host delegates from over 150 countries. Hall No. 14 will specifically host the BRICS Business Forum with PM Modi and Vladimir Putin. 🇮🇳

😟 Faculty Shortage Threatens GIDS's Future

A shortage of faculty and researchers is causing major concern for GIDS, a national research institute in Lucknow. The institute, funded by ICSSR and the State government, has only nine out of 18 sanctioned faculty posts filled as of December 2025. No permanent appointments have occurred since 2016, and promotions have been delayed for nearly a decade. This situation is criticized as a systematic weakening of premier academic bodies. The consequences include a growing trust deficit in government statistics. 📉

🌍 Xi Jinping's big role in BRICS expansion

Xi Jinping's involvement in BRICS has shown China's shifting global priorities since 2013. He has been central to major events, including the New Development Bank launch and the bloc's expansion. Over the last decade, BRICS grew significantly beyond its initial five members. Xi’s diplomacy has closely matched the group's increasing global ambitions. The timeline revisits these key moments shaping his journey with the coalition.

🔬 Diabetes and Optic Nerve Diameter Link Found

A retrospective observational study investigated the relationship between diabetes mellitus and the optic nerve sheath diameter measured via CT scans. The research focused on a group of patients across various settings to draw conclusions about this association. Specific data points, including patient demographics and measurement dates, were compiled for analysis. This study contributes to understanding potential complications related to long-term diabetes management. Future research will likely explore intervention strategies based on these findings.

🚨 Fake sports certs linked to govt job racket

A Pune Police probe uncovered a massive racket involving fake Kurash sports certificates used for government jobs. The investigation targets 71 recruits in police and other departments across Maharashtra. Authorities are scrutinizing 1,200 to 1,500 certificates issued between 2016 and 2023. This scam involved falsely claiming state-level competitions that never actually took place. Police are now expanding the probe to check for fake national and international certificates.