💰 UPI MDR fees coming, here's the lowdown 💸

NPCI has announced that additional charges will be allowed on certain UPI payments starting October 15, 2026. This change affects mid-to-large merchants processing over ₹2,000 per transaction, with a 0.4% fee applying generally. Essential sectors like railways and fuel get a flat MDR of ₹5 per transaction for cost certainty. Importantly, all P2P transactions and small merchant payments up to ₹1 lakh remain free from any charges. The bulk of the revenue is projected to go to banks like Yes Bank and payment apps like PhonePe.

🍎 Eating more wholegrains helps heart health

A new study reveals that consuming four to six servings of wholegrain daily significantly lowers cardiovascular disease risk factors. This research, led by Dr Helda Tutunchi in Iran, analyzed 87 clinical trials involving over 6,500 people globally. The findings show that eating 60 to 100 grams of wholegrain daily reduces weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure. These benefits occur through multiple small improvements across various risk factors simultaneously. Further long-term studies are needed to confirm these positive effects over extended periods. 🍎

😟 Air Pollution Linked to Higher Suicide Risk: New Study

A recent study has established a link between poor air quality and an increased risk of suicide among populations. Researchers published these significant findings in the journal 'JECH', detailing the correlation observed. The study tracked data points and observed trends over specific timeframes related to air quality indices. This research highlights a serious public health concern connecting environmental factors to mental well-being. Authorities are expected to use this data to push for stricter pollution control measures moving forward. 😟

🏘️ Andhra CM aims for houses for all by 2029

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to ensure a permanent home for every eligible family in the state by 2029. This directive was issued in Andhra Pradesh during a review meeting with state officials. The targets include completing 5.52 lakh houses by March 2027 and constructing 1.5 lakh urban houses by December 2026. The CM wants to implement the 'Housing for All' programme saturation-wise, leveraging schemes like PMAY-Gramin. All departments must collaborate to meet this major housing target for the state. 🏘️

🏏 Afghanistan's batting issues cited after India win

Afghanistan suffered a seven-wicket defeat to India on Tuesday due to high dot-ball percentage and low strike rate. This loss marked a series defeat for Afghanistan after posting sub-160 scores in two consecutive games. The team recorded a 41.6% dot-ball percentage in the second T20I, contrasting with India's 32.9%. Coach Pybus also pointed out that a lack of power-hitting is a "talent pool" issue compared to India's depth. The team must seriously work on increasing their strike power over the next 12 months. 🏏

🔭 China's Telescope Maps Star Ingredients

A new radio telescope from China has successfully mapped the raw materials necessary for the formation of stars. This groundbreaking observation was conducted by researchers at a specific facility in China. The data collected covers a significant region, providing unprecedented detail on interstellar clouds. This work helps scientists better understand stellar nurseries and the cosmic processes of star birth. Future studies will use this mapping to refine theories about early universe composition.

🧠 Elsevier upgrades LeapSpace AI with new content and board

Elsevier has expanded the content available on its LeapSpace AI research platform and formed an independent advisory board. This platform now uses full-text content covering 56% of citations since 2021 and 42% of global articles from that period. LeapSpace integrates content from over 1,500 scholarly publishers and draws on more than 100 million Scopus records. The new advisory board will guide development on algorithms and publisher neutrality amidst AI trust concerns. This move aims to make LeapSpace a trusted, research-grade AI workspace for scientists.

🪐 Distant world shows organized, Jupiter-like weather

A planet located 20 light-years away has been observed exhibiting surprisingly structured weather patterns. This exoplanet is noted for its atmospheric dynamics resembling those of Jupiter. Data collected points to these organized systems being present as of the latest observations. Scientists are studying this atmospheric behavior to better understand planet formation processes. Further analysis is expected to reveal more about this distant world's climate. 🪐

😥 Three drown while swimming in Jharkhand river

Five friends went for a swim in the Medho River located in Giridih, Jharkhand. Three of the individuals were swept into deep water and ultimately drowned during the incident. This tragic event occurred on Tuesday evening, involving two 13-year-old brothers and one 12-year-old friend. The strong current caught them off guard, causing them to struggle in the river. After a search, the bodies of all three children were recovered on Tuesday night. 😥

🥗 How much fibre should women actually eat?

Fibre is now seen as crucial for overall health, supporting digestion, blood sugar, and heart function for women. Nutrition experts suggest most adult women should aim for 25 to 30 grams of fibre daily. This intake supports hormonal health and helps manage oestrogen metabolism through the gut. Focusing on variety from whole foods is key, rather than hitting an exact daily number. Gradually increasing intake is advised to avoid discomfort like bloating. 🍎

👟 iPhone Duo is an Air Jordan, 18 Pro is Gel-Kayano

Anand Ahuja compared Apple's new iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro to iconic sneakers like an Air Jordan and Gel-Kayano. He discussed these devices' design, usability, and accessories after seeing the new lineup. The iPhone Duo, being a foldable, is positioned around lifestyle use, not just multitasking. Anand noted the Duo's good cases could turn it into a style statement, much like sneakers. The discussion highlighted Apple's culture, which maintains Steve Jobs' original design vision. 👟