A halted resupply run, a grounded warship and the decades-old dispute over South China Sea

On September 25, the Philippines accused Chinese vessels of obstructing a resupply mission to troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippine military reported that three Chinese navy ships and five coast guard vessels were involved, resulting in the mission being abandoned. Tensions have escalated, with the US condemning China's actions as dangerous, while China criticized US involvement. The dispute over these waters stems from overlapping territorial claims between China and several Southeast Asian nations, including the historical context of the South China Sea and ongoing military actions by China since 2013.

Tony Reno's Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease diagnosis in focus after ex-Yale football coach dies at 52

Tony Reno, the former Yale football coach, passed away at 52 after battling health issues, including Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, for which he resigned in February. Yale athletic director Victoria Chun praised his mentorship and dedication to players, noting his significant achievements, including five Ivy League championships. Reno, survived by his wife and children, leaves a lasting legacy.

Police kept close watch for anti-social elements, Maharashtra minister Pankaj Bhoyar on CJP protest

Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home, Pankaj Bhoyar, announced close police surveillance during the Cockroach Janata Party’s protest in Mumbai, which saw over 10,000 attendees, including notable figures, against the Election Commission regarding electoral roll irregularities. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke warned of escalating protests if Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar does not resign. The movement highlights broader discontent in Maharashtra's electoral processes.

'Mother building future, father fighting cases': Top court reverses custody order

A Supreme Court ruling has granted a mother the right to take her children to the UK for a stable future, overturning a custody order favoring her estranged husband, criticized for prioritizing litigation over financial stability. The court lauded her perseverance in securing jobs while raising her children, emphasizing their well-being amidst ongoing legal challenges. A custody dispute lasting seven years ensued after the couple's separation in 2018.

Karachi’s women delivery riders navigate traffic, stigma and the road to independence

In Karachi, four women—Mehak Baloch, Rubab Jubani, Sana Urooj, and Kiran Fateh—are redefining gender roles by becoming food delivery riders despite societal challenges. They share similar circumstances, seeking financial independence and support for their families. With initiatives promoting women’s mobility, these pioneers are gradually reshaping perceptions of female motorcyclists in Pakistan's largest city.

Why did Jay Cinco and Lala Baptiste break up? Latest Instagram updates in focus amid split

Jay Cinco and Lala Baptiste have announced their breakup via Instagram, stating they will “mutually” focus on themselves while co-parenting their daughter, indicating “no bad blood.” The couple, who got engaged in March 2026 and welcomed their first child, emphasized their enduring family bond despite the split, which comes just months after their engagement.

US dinner and ‘morality push’: Why Anthropic invited a Hindu monk to discuss AI

Anthropic has been consulting religious thinkers from various faiths, including Catholicism and Sikhism, to integrate morality into its AI models and explore the concept of AI consciousness. Secretive meetings, including a high-profile dinner in San Francisco, involved scholars discussing AI ethics. Notably, Hindu monk Sarvapriyananda shared insights from his visit, sparking widespread interest.

Keralam govt may widen probe into 2021 Muttil tree-felling case

Keralam Minister Shibu Baby John announced an expanded probe into the alleged misuse of a 2020 government order permitting tree felling in Wayanad, linked to large-scale illegal logging. The investigation will assess the conspiracy behind this exploitation, emphasizing violations of forest laws. Three brothers face accusations of illegal timber trade as the inquiry progresses.

‘Don’t seek to paint anybody black or white': Mundhe on FDA releasing raid photos

Maharashtra FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe emphasized consumer awareness amid restaurateurs' backlash over release of raid footage. He stated, “I am neither a hero nor a national hero” while addressing extensive crackdowns on unsafe food practices and nutraceuticals. Mundhe’s actions aim to enhance public health standards, gaining him recognition as a champion of consumer rights.

Thinking of ditching store-bought protein powder for a homemade mix? Here's what you need to know

Homemade protein powders can be a healthy alternative if properly calculated, according to Dr. Rohini Somnath Patil. Users should consider portion sizes and ingredient nutrition, as items like nuts are calorie-dense but not necessarily high in protein. The focus should be on a balanced diet rather than replacing protein sources with trendy powders.

Karan Johar reviews Drishyam 3, calls Ajay Devgn, Jaideep Ahlawat’s performances ‘outstanding'

**Drishyam 3** has set a new benchmark for Ajay Devgn, raking in ₹66.7 crore on its opening day, surpassing major films like Pathaan and Animal. The film, directed by Abhishek Pathak, is the concluding chapter of the Hindi franchise, featuring the return of Devgn, Tabu, and Shriya Saran, and has received positive reviews, including praise from Karan Johar. The film's success was aided by the Gandhi Jayanti holiday.

4 women killed, several injured after bus carrying 50 passengers overturns in Telangana

A tragic bus accident in Telangana's Vikarabad district left four women dead and several others injured when a private travel bus overturned while descending Ananthagiri Ghat Road. The bus carried around 50 passengers traveling to a funeral. Authorities are investigating the cause, while local rescue efforts swiftly transported the injured for treatment. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy expressed condolences and emphasized medical support for victims.

Long weekend rush clogs the hills: Major traffic in Manali, Mussoorie, Kainchi Dham

This weekend, large crowds of devotees are flocking to Kedarnath Dham for darshan amidst significant traffic congestion across popular pilgrimage and tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The holiday rush has disrupted travel, with lengthy delays reported at various sites. Pilgrims are urged to follow guidelines as they navigate the busy routes. Traffic spikes coincided with the extended Gandhi Jayanti weekend, prompting major influxes to sites like Badrinath Dham and Mussoorie.

Karnataka CM Shivakumar seeks ₹3,705 cr drought relief from Centre

Bengaluru Chief Minister D K Shivakumar requested Rs 3,705.30 crore in drought relief from the Centre, citing severe hardship for farmers and the public, during a meeting with the Central Inter-Ministerial Drought Assessment Team. With 217 of 240 taluks drought-hit, Shivakumar emphasized the urgent need for support amid low reservoir inflows and ongoing rainfall deficits.

IndiGo cabin crew member bakes cake for captain’s last flight: ‘Made my heart so full’

An IndiGo crew member, Ashu Yadwade, celebrated her captain's final flight by baking a cake on board, capturing a heartwarming moment in a viral video. Social media users reacted positively, sharing nostalgic flying experiences and praising the gesture, though one questioned how the almonds were chopped without sharp objects. The thoughtful act highlights camaraderie among airline crews.

Ex-serviceman’s agricultural land plea leaves Karnataka HC with ‘heavy heart’

The Karnataka High Court denied an ex-serviceman five acres of agricultural land, expressing regret due to amended laws limiting grants to residential sites when agricultural land is unavailable. Despite his service, the bench upheld the 1969 Land Grant Rules, offering Vemanna a smaller residential site, which he refused, as it had not been legally challenged.

In 1998, Costa Rica dumped orange peels on a ruined pasture, and a forest regrew

Researchers discovered that dumping 12,000 metric tons of orange peels in a Costa Rican pasture significantly boosted forest regrowth, resulting in three times more woody plant species and 176% more biomass after 16 years. Although preliminary, results suggest that citrus waste could promote tropical forest recovery, necessitating further research into environmental impacts and optimal waste management practices.

In 2008, Czechs began turning a coal pit that erased a town into a lake

Lake Most, a 300-hectare pit lake in the Czech Republic, is now a recreational area following a 2.5 billion koruna investment. While a 2025 study shows diverse microbial life and acceptable water chemistry, certain pollutants exceed limits. Originally created from a coal mine that operated until 1999, it symbolizes land reclamation in post-mining contexts.

How Abhishek Sharma's early violence protects the innings when middle order begins to unravel

Abhishek Sharma's explosive 61 off 28 balls, including seven sixes, was pivotal in India's Asian Games 2026 Gold Medal match against Pakistan, propelling India to 93/3 before a middle-over collapse. His early aggression set a strong foundation, allowing the team to finish with 211/6, demonstrating his unique ability to preemptively mitigate scoring crises.

CPI(M) to hold inquiry into ₹10 lakh bribe allegation against Thiruvananthapuram councillor

The CPI will investigate allegations against Thiruvananthapuram councillor Ajin S, who reportedly demanded a Rs 10 lakh bribe to resolve land issues, as stated by state secretary MV Govindan. The complainant, Sanju, provided audio and video evidence. Mayor VV Rajesh noted the Corporation's limited inquiry powers, while Health Minister K Muraleedharan highlighted ongoing malpractices under CPI.

How F1’s backmarker teams use high-risk simulations to score points

In Formula 1, the Williams F1 Team employs unconventional strategies to score points amid fierce competition, relying on simulations to explore high-risk scenarios. Currently, they sit ninth with 12 points, struggling against rapid developments from rival teams. Driver Alex Albon highlights the necessity of adapting to new regulations, emphasizing teamwork and regional pride as significant drivers of their efforts.

NCW proposes gender-neutral child care leave, 5 lakh creche seats by 2030

The National Commission for Women has proposed 37 recommendations to the Indian government aimed at enhancing maternity and childcare protections. Key suggestions include extending childcare leave to private sectors, mandatory paid paternity leave, and creating five lakh creche seats by 2030. The report addresses gender-neutral caregiving and aims to improve workplace equality for all parents.

What happened to Brian Daley? Missing Utica man found dead in Mississippi River

Brian Daley, 60, was found dead in the Mississippi River after going missing when his pontoon boat was discovered unattended. His body was located 1.5 miles south of Lock and Dam 5 following a multi-agency search. The cause of death remains undisclosed, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.

Man dies, woman and 2 children injured during IAF helicopter relief operation in flood-hit Bihar

A 58-year-old man died in Bihar's Saran district allegedly after being struck by relief materials dropped from an IAF helicopter during a flood relief operation, while a woman and two children were injured during the same drop. Thousands are displaced due to rising waters from the Gandak river, with ongoing aerial and ground relief efforts amid severe flooding.

Delhi HC directs DDA to process within 2 months property conversion applications

The Delhi High Court has ordered the DDA to process pending leasehold to freehold property conversion applications within two months, addressing significant delays affecting residents. The DDA has collected Rs 155.06 crore for these applications, yet many remain unresolved. Future policy formulation is also urged to alleviate ongoing issues, with hearings scheduled for December 11.

Woman shares ‘basic’ things that became luxuries after she got a job

A woman, Kuljot Kaur, has resonated with many online by highlighting how simple pleasures like afternoon naps and social outings have become rare luxuries since starting full-time work. In her Instagram video, she humorously reflects on the significant lifestyle changes, noting that hobbies and movie-watching have been drastically reduced. The clip prompted relatable reactions on social media, emphasizing shared adult struggles.

Cannabis extract worth ₹1 crore concealed in cosmetic jars seized at Pune airport

Pune Customs and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 1.243 kg of suspected hashish concealed in cosmetic jars at Pune International Airport on October 1. The substance, found during baggage screening of an Indian woman arriving from Bangkok, tested positive for cannabis and is valued at ₹1 crore. The passenger has been arrested under the NDPS Act, with investigations ongoing to trace the drug's source.

Kharge writes to PM Modi, urges ₹3,705 crore aid for drought-hit Karnataka

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge urged Prime Minister Modi to intervene urgently in Karnataka's severe drought crisis, requesting Rs 3,705.30 crore in disaster relief. Kharge highlighted extensive agricultural losses and water shortages affecting millions, citing significant rainfall deficits. He called for updated subsidy calculations for farmers and emphasized the need for immediate assistance to alleviate the dire humanitarian situation.

Hair mass removed from stomach, intestine of 9-year-old with ‘Rapunzel’ syndrome

A nine-year-old girl in Kerala underwent surgery to remove about one kilogram of hair from her stomach and small intestine, diagnosed with Rapunzel syndrome—a rare condition where ingested hair forms a blockage. After successful surgery at NIMS Medicity, she fully recovered. Fewer than 100 cases have been reported globally, mostly in adolescent girls.

Arjun Das reveals he was in talks for Don 3 before Ranveer Singh-Farhan Akhtar fallout

Farhan Akhtar's highly anticipated film, Don 3, faced turmoil following Ranveer Singh's exit due to creative disputes, leading to compensation claims. Tamil actor Arjun Das confirmed discussions with Akhtar about joining the project but stated it won't materialize. Announced in 2023, Don 3, intended to revive a classic, remains in limbo amid ongoing conflicts.