Afternoon briefing: BJP slams Bengal govt over ED team attack; ISRO’s fuel cell test on PSLV-C58 orbital module, more
Here is a shortlist of the biggest headlines, recommended stories, and a special collection of news items you should check out.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly criticised the West Bengal government after an Enforcement Directorate (ED) team faced an attack during a raid on the house of ruling TMC block-level functionaries in North 24 Parganas. BJP's Amit Malviya suggested the attackers, possibly illegal immigrants, were supported by TMC leaders, asserting that the Mamata Banerjee-led government poses a national security threat. The ED was investigating a ration scam involving TMC leaders Shahjahan Sheikh and Shankar Adhya. Hundreds gathered during the raid, prompting concerns of deteriorating law and order. Former BJP President Rahul Sinha condemned the attack, linking Sheikh to criminal cases. BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar urged emergency provisions, alleging a failure of democracy. In contrast, TMC's Kunal Ghosh claimed the attack was orchestrated by central agencies under BJP influence. The incident highlights the escalating political tensions in West Bengal. Dig deeper
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone by successfully testing a 100 W Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (FCPS) on its orbital platform, PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) 3, launched by the PSLV-C58 mission. This key experiment demonstrated the generation of 180 W power from hydrogen and oxygen gases stored on board. Hydrogen Fuel Cells, working on electrochemical principles like batteries, directly produce electricity, making them emission-free with water and heat as byproducts. ISRO envisions their application in space missions and sees potential for replacing traditional vehicle engines. The successful test underscores Fuel Cells' efficiency and versatility. Dig deeper
The Latest News
Supreme Court declines to entertain PIL on Shahi Idgah-Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute Dig deeper
Commercial, public vehicles off roads in Assam as 48-hour transport strike begins Dig deeper
Indian News
ISRO generates power from hydrogen and oxygen gases on PSLV-C58 orbital module Dig deeper
INS Chennai moving towards hijacked vessel off Somalia coast; 15 Indians aboard Liberian-flagged ship Dig deeper
Global Matters
Vivek Ramaswamy torches ‘knee-jerk’ gun control policy after Iowa school shooting Dig deeper
South African former Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius released on parole 11 years after murdering his girlfriend Dig deeper
Entertainment Focus
Actress Ileana D'Cruz, residing in the US with partner Michael Dolan, welcomed son Koa Phoenix Dolan on August 1, 2023. In a recent interview with The Times of India, she candidly spoke about postpartum depression and the challenges of motherhood. While keeping her partner's details private, Ileana addressed marriage speculations, emphasizing her discomfort with rumors about her family. The actress praised Michael, expressing gratitude for his support and understanding. Amid past relationship rumors, she clarified not wanting to divulge too much about her personal life. Ileana previously dated photographer Andrew Kneebone and introduced baby Koa on Instagram, expressing immense joy. Dig deeper
Lifestyle and Health
The evolving culinary landscape mirrors our interconnected world, with fusion cuisine emerging as a captivating trend. The amalgamation of diverse global flavours has become a hallmark of contemporary dining. The fusion movement thrives on blending elements from different cultures, creating innovative culinary experiences. Enhanced connectivity between the East and West through globalisation has fuelled this trend, resulting in inventive combinations. Notably, Western cuisine embraces quick noodles, integrating them into unconventional delights like burgers and cupcakes. This culinary cross-pollination extends further, with North American influences influencing Asian dishes. The popularity of such cultural fusions underscores a growing openness to exploring and savouring diverse and novel flavours. Dig deeper
(That’s all we have at this hour in our afternoon briefing. Catch you in the evening.)