The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy corridors, has become increasingly difficult to track as the war between Iran, the US, and Israel continues. Before the conflict, fewer than 1 per cent of vessels crossing the strait were classified as "dark". Since July 8, that figure has risen to around two-thirds of all transits, according to maritime intelligence firm Kpler.But what exactly does "dark" mean, and why does it matter?<h2>What is a 'dark' ship transit?</h2>In this context, "dark" does not necessarily mean that a vessel is operating illegally or secretly. It means that its exact route cannot be confirmed because of gaps in available tracking data.According to Kpler, these gaps can result from disabled transponders, jammed signals, or missing satellite imagery. When tracking systems cannot establish where a vessel crossed the waterway, that transit is recorded as unknown or "dark".Before the war, the vast majority of vessels followed the traditional corridor through the centre of the Strait of Hormuz, making their movements relatively easy to track.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-strait-of-hormuz-american-territory-vows-iran-will-never-get-nuclear-weapon-1787385976123">Trump calls Strait of Hormuz 'American territory', vows Iran will never get nuclear weapon</a><h2>Why are so many transits now going dark?</h2>The pattern changed after Iran closed the strait following the outbreak of the war.The waterway now effectively has two competing routes. One runs along the Iranian side and is the only route approved by Tehran. The other lies farther south, near Oman's coast and potentially mined waters.During the relatively calmer period between June 17 and July 7, around nine ships a day used the Iranian route, and eight used the Omani route. Others travelled through unidentified routes or the former International Maritime Organization corridor. After hostilities resumed on July 8, however, the share of unidentified or "dark" crossings surged to two-thirds.<h2>How much has traffic through Hormuz fallen?</h2>The change in tracking visibility comes alongside a huge decline in overall shipping. Before the war, around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports passed through the Strait of Hormuz.In February, an average of 95 commodity carriers crossed the strait each day. After Iran closed the waterway on March 1, it fell to around 10 per day.A June agreement briefly pushed the average up to 36 daily transits. But after fighting resumed on July 8, the number dropped again to around 15 transits a day through August 22.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-suspends-trade-with-iran-accuses-it-of-targeting-gulf-shipping-tehran-calls-claim-baseless-1787100695124">UAE suspends trade with Iran, accuses it of targeting Gulf shipping; Tehran calls claim baseless</a><h2>Are sailors still trapped in the Gulf?</h2>Yes. The disruption has left around 6,000 sailors and 500 vessels stranded in the Gulf, according to the International Maritime Organization. The IMO said discussions were continuing on securing a safe maritime route, but stressed that progress depended on de-escalation in the region.The maritime risks have also become deadly. The IMO has recorded 68 incidents in the Gulf and neighbouring waters during the war, including 47 incidents classified as attacks by the UK Maritime Trade Operations.At least 20 seafarers and port workers have been killed, 35 wounded, and one remains missing, according to the IMO.<h2>Why does the 'dark' trend matter?</h2>The rise in dark transits makes it harder to know exactly where vessels are travelling through one of the world's most important shipping chokepoints. That creates uncertainty for ship operators, insurers, governments and maritime authorities, especially in waters where Iran has warned of possible mines and where commercial vessels have already come under attack.

Two-thirds of vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz are now being classified as "dark". But does that mean they are operating secretly, illegally, or simply disappearing from tracking systems? WION Decodes what is really happening.

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy corridors, has become increasingly difficult to track as the war between Iran, the US, and Israel continues. Before the conflict, fewer than 1 per cent of vessels crossing the strait were classified as "dark". Since July 8, that figure has risen to around two-thirds of all transits, according to maritime intelligence firm Kpler. But what exactly does "dark" mean, and why does it matter? What is a 'dark' ship transit? In this context, "dark" does not necessarily mean that a vessel is operating illegally or secretly. It means that its exact route cannot be confirmed because of gaps in available tracking data. According to Kpler, these gaps can result from disabled transponders, jammed signals, or missing satellite imagery. When tracking systems cannot establish where a vessel crossed the waterway, that transit is recorded as unknown or "dark". Before the war, the vast majority of vessels followed the traditional corridor through the centre of the Strait of Hormuz, making their movements relatively easy to track. Also read | Trump calls Strait of Hormuz 'American territory', vows Iran will never get nuclear weapon Why are so many transits now going dark? The pattern changed after Iran closed the strait following the outbreak of the war. The waterway now effectively has two competing routes. One runs along the Iranian side and is the only route approved by Tehran. The other lies farther south, near Oman's coast and potentially mined waters. During the relatively calmer period between June 17 and July 7, around nine ships a day used the Iranian route, and eight used the Omani route. Others travelled through unidentified routes or the former International Maritime Organization corridor. After hostilities resumed on July 8, however, the share of unidentified or "dark" crossings surged to two-thirds. How much has traffic through Hormuz fallen? The change in tracking visibility comes alongside a huge decline in overall shipping. Before the war, around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports passed through the Strait of Hormuz. In February, an average of 95 commodity carriers crossed the strait each day. After Iran closed the waterway on March 1, it fell to around 10 per day. A June agreement briefly pushed the average up to 36 daily transits. But after fighting resumed on July 8, the number dropped again to around 15 transits a day through August 22. Also read | UAE suspends trade with Iran, accuses it of targeting Gulf shipping; Tehran calls claim baseless Are sailors still trapped in the Gulf? Yes. The disruption has left around 6,000 sailors and 500 vessels stranded in the Gulf, according to the International Maritime Organization. The IMO said discussions were continuing on securing a safe maritime route, but stressed that progress depended on de-escalation in the region. The maritime risks have also become deadly. The IMO has recorded 68 incidents in the Gulf and neighbouring waters during the war, including 47 incidents classified as attacks by the UK Maritime Trade Operations. At least 20 seafarers and port workers have been killed, 35 wounded, and one remains missing, according to the IMO. Why does the 'dark' trend matter? The rise in dark transits makes it harder to know exactly where vessels are travelling through one of the world's most important shipping chokepoints. That creates uncertainty for ship operators, insurers, governments and maritime authorities, especially in waters where Iran has warned of possible mines and where commercial vessels have already come under attack.

Two-thirds of vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz are now being classified as "dark". But does that mean they are operating secretly, illegally, or simply disappearing from tracking systems? WION Decodes what is really happening.

WION Decodes: Two-thirds of ships crossing Hormuz are now 'dark'. What does that mean?

India at 80: The cost of everyday essentials has changed dramatically since 1947. Here is a look at what Indians paid for milk, rice, wheat, petrol, travel, and more back when the country gained independence compared with 2026.

India at 80: The cost of everyday essentials has changed dramatically since 1947. Here is a look at what Indians paid for milk, rice, wheat, petrol, travel, and more back when the country gained independence compared with 2026.

1947 vs 2026: Shocking increase in price of everyday essentials in India

India 80th Independence Day 2026: They carried secret messages, ran underground networks, slipped through police dragnets, and kept revolutionary movements alive when the British crackdown intensified. Here are 7 women freedom fighters whose stories deserve to be remembered.

India 80th Independence Day 2026: They carried secret messages, ran underground networks, slipped through police dragnets, and kept revolutionary movements alive when the British crackdown intensified. Here are 7 women freedom fighters whose stories deserve to be remembered.

India at 80: 7 forgotten female freedom fighters who outsmarted British intelligence

For centuries, people preserved memories through photographs, letters and home videos. Now, artificial intelligence is changing that. Today, a growing number of companies offer to recreate deceased people as interactive chatbots, voice clones or even lifelike video avatars that can hold conversations with family members.Supporters of the technology see these AI replicas as a new way to remember loved ones. Critics, meanwhile, warn that these AI avatars blur the line between memory and simulation, raising difficult questions about grief, consent, privacy and ownership. WION decodes the latest AI-related ethical conundrum.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/advances-in-artificial-intelligence-mean-deadbots-can-haunt-users-warn-ai-experts-heres-what-it-means-719542">Advances in artificial intelligence mean 'deadbots' can 'haunt' the living, warn experts. Here's what it means</a><h2>How are AI companies creating digital versions of dead people?</h2>The technology works by combining multiple forms of personal data left behind during a person's lifetime.Researchers describe these systems, often called "digital ghosts" or "griefbots", as AI models built from a person's digital traces, including photographs, videos, voice recordings, emails, text messages, interviews, social media posts and memories shared by relatives.Voice cloning technology analyses recordings to reproduce a person's pronunciation, pitch, rhythm, accent and speaking style. Instead of replaying existing recordings, AI generates entirely new speech in the same voice. Reuters reported one case in which a man recreated his deceased father's voice from a single audio message.Facial animation has also advanced rapidly. Microsoft's VASA-1 research showed that a single photograph combined with an audio clip can generate realistic talking faces with synchronised lip movements, facial expressions and natural head movements. The company said the research is intended to advance avatar technology and was not released as a public product.Many commercial services combine these technologies with large language models that learn a person's communication style and memories, allowing an avatar to respond to new questions in real time.One such service, Afterlife AI, offers a service where users can themselves preserve their voice, memories, values and stories while alive and decide who can access their digital persona after death.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/death-is-only-the-beginning-meta-patents-technology-that-ll-let-ai-run-your-social-media-from-beyond-the-grave-wion-explains-1771304178081">Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains</a><h2>Who owns your voice, photographs and digital identity after death?</h2>The legal answer is far from straightforward. According to India's Copyright Act, there is no single legal right covering a deceased person's entire digital identity. Different parts of someone's online presence are governed by different laws.<blockquote>For instance:<ul><li>A photograph is not automatically owned by the person appearing in it. Copyright usually belongs to the photographer unless specific legal exceptions apply.</li><li>Copyright in literary, artistic, musical and other protected works generally continues for 60 years after the author's death under the Copyright Act, 1957.</li><li>Voice recordings can themselves qualify as copyright-protected sound recordings.</li></ul></blockquote>This means that AI companies may own the software used to generate an avatar, but that does not automatically give them ownership of the deceased person's identity, likeness or personal history.Notably, India currently has no dedicated law governing AI-generated replicas of deceased individuals, meaning disputes could involve copyright, contractual agreements, privacy principles and inheritance laws depending on the circumstances.<h2>Can AI help people cope with grief?</h2>Researchers say the answer is complicated. Several recent studies suggest AI grief technologies can provide emotional comfort by allowing users to maintain a sense of connection with someone who has died. Participants reported using griefbots to express unresolved emotions, revisit memories or have private conversations they felt unable to share with others.A 2026 systematic review examining 30 studies on digital grief technologies, including AI chatbots, digital replicas, virtual reality memorials and online remembrance platforms, found potential benefits such as reduced grief symptoms, increased emotional support and greater accessibility to bereavement tools. However, the research published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2451958826002228">Science Direct</a> also identified significant risks. "This form of digital grief technology can create an illusion, causing the bereaved to develop unhealthy attachments to the digital representations of the deceased as a form of support or closure. Therefore, such attachments could interfere with their ability to engage in a healthy grieving process. Similarly, generative AI chatbots were also found to be at risk of causing overreliance as this technology enabled the bereaved to sustain a continuous bond with the deceased, which can hinder their recovery process," it found.Researchers have also warned that prolonged interaction with AI replicas could interfere with the natural grieving process by making it harder for some people to accept a loved one's death. Concerns about psychological dependence have become one of the central ethical debates surrounding griefbots.Here's a question for you, the reader: Would you opt to create a griefbot to help you deal with the death of a loved one or leave behind an AI replica of yourself to help them after your passing?

AI can now use a person's photos, videos, voice recordings and messages to create digital replicas that can talk and respond like them. But as "griefbots" gain attention, questions around consent, ownership, privacy and the grieving process are becoming harder to ignore. WION Decodes.

For centuries, people preserved memories through photographs, letters and home videos. Now, artificial intelligence is changing that. Today, a growing number of companies offer to recreate deceased people as interactive chatbots, voice clones or even lifelike video avatars that can hold conversations with family members. Supporters of the technology see these AI replicas as a new way to remember loved ones. Critics, meanwhile, warn that these AI avatars blur the line between memory and simulation, raising difficult questions about grief, consent, privacy and ownership. WION decodes the latest AI-related ethical conundrum. Also read | Advances in artificial intelligence mean 'deadbots' can 'haunt' the living, warn experts. Here's what it means How are AI companies creating digital versions of dead people? The technology works by combining multiple forms of personal data left behind during a person's lifetime. Researchers describe these systems, often called "digital ghosts" or "griefbots", as AI models built from a person's digital traces, including photographs, videos, voice recordings, emails, text messages, interviews, social media posts and memories shared by relatives. Voice cloning technology analyses recordings to reproduce a person's pronunciation, pitch, rhythm, accent and speaking style. Instead of replaying existing recordings, AI generates entirely new speech in the same voice. Reuters reported one case in which a man recreated his deceased father's voice from a single audio message. Facial animation has also advanced rapidly. Microsoft's VASA-1 research showed that a single photograph combined with an audio clip can generate realistic talking faces with synchronised lip movements, facial expressions and natural head movements. The company said the research is intended to advance avatar technology and was not released as a public product. Many commercial services combine these technologies with large language models that learn a person's communication style and memories, allowing an avatar to respond to new questions in real time. One such service, Afterlife AI, offers a service where users can themselves preserve their voice, memories, values and stories while alive and decide who can access their digital persona after death. Also read | Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains Who owns your voice, photographs and digital identity after death? The legal answer is far from straightforward. According to India's Copyright Act, there is no single legal right covering a deceased person's entire digital identity. Different parts of someone's online presence are governed by different laws. For instance: A photograph is not automatically owned by the person appearing in it. Copyright usually belongs to the photographer unless specific legal exceptions apply. Copyright in literary, artistic, musical and other protected works generally continues for 60 years after the author's death under the Copyright Act, 1957. Voice recordings can themselves qualify as copyright-protected sound recordings. This means that AI companies may own the software used to generate an avatar, but that does not automatically give them ownership of the deceased person's identity, likeness or personal history. Notably, India currently has no dedicated law governing AI-generated replicas of deceased individuals, meaning disputes could involve copyright, contractual agreements, privacy principles and inheritance laws depending on the circumstances. Can AI help people cope with grief? Researchers say the answer is complicated. Several recent studies suggest AI grief technologies can provide emotional comfort by allowing users to maintain a sense of connection with someone who has died. Participants reported using griefbots to express unresolved emotions, revisit memories or have private conversations they felt unable to share with others. A 2026 systematic review examining 30 studies on digital grief technologies, including AI chatbots, digital replicas, virtual reality memorials and online remembrance platforms, found potential benefits such as reduced grief symptoms, increased emotional support and greater accessibility to bereavement tools. However, the research published in Science Direct also identified significant risks. "This form of digital grief technology can create an illusion, causing the bereaved to develop unhealthy attachments to the digital representations of the deceased as a form of support or closure. Therefore, such attachments could interfere with their ability to engage in a healthy grieving process. Similarly, generative AI chatbots were also found to be at risk of causing overreliance as this technology enabled the bereaved to sustain a continuous bond with the deceased, which can hinder their recovery process," it found. Researchers have also warned that prolonged interaction with AI replicas could interfere with the natural grieving process by making it harder for some people to accept a loved one's death. Concerns about psychological dependence have become one of the central ethical debates surrounding griefbots. Here's a question for you, the reader: Would you opt to create a griefbot to help you deal with the death of a loved one or leave behind an AI replica of yourself to help them after your passing?

AI can now use a person's photos, videos, voice recordings and messages to create digital replicas that can talk and respond like them. But as "griefbots" gain attention, questions around consent, ownership, privacy and the grieving process are becoming harder to ignore. WION Decodes.

AI can now recreate the dead. But who owns your 'digital ghost' when you're gone? | WION Decodes

Heavy rain continued to batter several parts of India on Friday (Jul 31), triggering floods, flash floods and waterlogging across multiple states. While Assam's flood toll climbed further, Kerala witnessed sudden flooding after an intense spell of rainfall, Gujarat continued restoration work after days of torrential rain, and fresh flooding was reported in Odisha. A cloudburst also struck Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, while Himachal Pradesh remained under the grip of an active monsoon.<h2>Assam: Death toll reaches 80, over 1.92 lakh affected</h2>The flood situation in Assam remained serious, with the death toll rising to 80 after two more fatalities were reported, one each in Sivasagar and Charaideo districts.According to the Disaster Reporting and Information Management System (DRIMS), more than 1.92 lakh people have been affected across five districts, namely Sivasagar, Golaghat, Jorhat, Nagaon and Charaideo. Floodwaters have inundated 379 villages and damaged over 15,430 hectares of crop area. Officials said there were no reports of urban flooding in the state.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-reaches-78-after-fresh-deaths-in-sivasagar-golaghat-over-3-lakh-people-affected-across-seven-districts-1785374750099">Assam flood toll reaches 78 after fresh deaths in Sivasagar, Golaghat; over 3 lakh people affected across seven districts</a>Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma thanked industrialist Gautam Adani for contributing Rs 11 crore to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, saying the amount would strengthen relief and rehabilitation efforts. Actor Kartik Aaryan has also contributed Rs 1 crore, while the Muslim Rashtriya Manch announced financial assistance for flood-hit communities.<h2>Kerala: Flash floods after 300 mm rain in just two hours</h2>Kerala witnessed one of its most intense spells of rainfall, with Pathanamthitta district receiving more than 300 mm of rain within two hours, triggering flash floods and causing the Pamba River to overflow.District Collector Nizamudeen A said rescue teams, including the police, fire force, revenue officials and panchayat authorities, were carrying out evacuation operations as a Red Alert remained in force.Several parts of Ranni town were submerged under waist-deep water. Local residents said people had been evacuated from their homes, but many could not remove their belongings before the floodwaters entered.The heavy rainfall also forced organisers of the Malabar River Festival in Kozhikode to suspend its white-water kayaking competitions after water levels in the Chalipuzha River rose sharply. Authorities relocated participants and equipment to safer locations following recommendations from Fire and Rescue Services.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta, while several other districts remain under an Orange Alert.<h2>Gujarat: Rescue operations continue as roads reopen</h2>In Gujarat's Valsad district, firefighters rescued three people stranded near the Auranga River after floodwaters surrounded the area around a bridge connecting the city with a nearby village. Officials said the rescue was launched immediately after a distress call and all three people were brought to safety.The state government said restoration work has progressed rapidly following the exceptionally heavy rainfall recorded between July 23 and 27. Of the 1,540 roads that were closed due to flooding and damage, 1,451 have already been reopened.South Gujarat bore the brunt of the rainfall, with 1,251 roads shut during the peak of the flooding. Officials said more than 98 per cent of those roads have since been restored after round-the-clock repair work involving over 1,400 personnel and hundreds of heavy machines.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-75-as-seven-drown-in-sivasagar-cm-himanta-announces-9-lakh-aid-for-victims-families-1785294377671">Assam flood toll rises; CM Himanta announces ₹9 lakh aid for victims' families</a><h2>Odisha: Villages inundated, opposition questions government's response</h2>Floodwaters entered Dokandar village under Kanas block in Odisha's Puri district, inundating homes and disrupting normal life.Residents said they were facing shortages of drinking water, food, electricity and other essential supplies as water entered residential areas. Villagers appealed for immediate relief while authorities said they were monitoring the situation and carrying out relief measures.The flood situation also triggered a political confrontation, with both the Biju Janata Dal and the Congress accusing the state government of inadequate preparedness and questioning Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's visit to Delhi while several districts remained affected.<h2>Jammu and Kashmir: Cloudburst damages shops in Kishtwar</h2>A cloudburst struck the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district early on Saturday, damaging several commercial establishments.Union Minister Jitendra Singh said there had been no loss of life and that compensation would be provided for damaged shops. He also said early warning systems had been installed in Kishtwar and Machhail following last year's Chasoti cloudburst, with an automatic weather station also being set up in the Padder area.<h2>Himachal Pradesh: Monsoon continues to disrupt normal life</h2>Intermittent rainfall continued across Himachal Pradesh, with Shimla witnessing persistent showers that attracted tourists but disrupted everyday life for residents.The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain across the state, with heavy rainfall likely at isolated places until August 4. It has warned of possible landslides, flash floods, waterlogging and slippery roads.Meanwhile, the Bhakra Beas Management Board released an additional 12,000 cusecs of water from the Pandoh Dam after increased inflows, taking total discharge into the Beas River to around 36,000 cusecs. Authorities have advised people to stay away from riverbanks as water levels could rise further.

Heavy rain continued to batter India as Assam's flood death toll rose to 80, Kerala witnessed flash floods after a 300 mm cloudburst-like downpour, and Gujarat, Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh grappled with flooding, rescue operations and weather alerts.

Heavy rain continued to batter several parts of India on Friday (Jul 31), triggering floods, flash floods and waterlogging across multiple states. While Assam's flood toll climbed further, Kerala witnessed sudden flooding after an intense spell of rainfall, Gujarat continued restoration work after days of torrential rain, and fresh flooding was reported in Odisha. A cloudburst also struck Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, while Himachal Pradesh remained under the grip of an active monsoon. Assam: Death toll reaches 80, over 1.92 lakh affected The flood situation in Assam remained serious, with the death toll rising to 80 after two more fatalities were reported, one each in Sivasagar and Charaideo districts. According to the Disaster Reporting and Information Management System (DRIMS), more than 1.92 lakh people have been affected across five districts, namely Sivasagar, Golaghat, Jorhat, Nagaon and Charaideo. Floodwaters have inundated 379 villages and damaged over 15,430 hectares of crop area. Officials said there were no reports of urban flooding in the state. Also read | Assam flood toll reaches 78 after fresh deaths in Sivasagar, Golaghat; over 3 lakh people affected across seven districts Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma thanked industrialist Gautam Adani for contributing Rs 11 crore to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, saying the amount would strengthen relief and rehabilitation efforts. Actor Kartik Aaryan has also contributed Rs 1 crore, while the Muslim Rashtriya Manch announced financial assistance for flood-hit communities. Kerala: Flash floods after 300 mm rain in just two hours Kerala witnessed one of its most intense spells of rainfall, with Pathanamthitta district receiving more than 300 mm of rain within two hours, triggering flash floods and causing the Pamba River to overflow. District Collector Nizamudeen A said rescue teams, including the police, fire force, revenue officials and panchayat authorities, were carrying out evacuation operations as a Red Alert remained in force. Several parts of Ranni town were submerged under waist-deep water. Local residents said people had been evacuated from their homes, but many could not remove their belongings before the floodwaters entered. The heavy rainfall also forced organisers of the Malabar River Festival in Kozhikode to suspend its white-water kayaking competitions after water levels in the Chalipuzha River rose sharply. Authorities relocated participants and equipment to safer locations following recommendations from Fire and Rescue Services. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta, while several other districts remain under an Orange Alert. Gujarat: Rescue operations continue as roads reopen In Gujarat's Valsad district, firefighters rescued three people stranded near the Auranga River after floodwaters surrounded the area around a bridge connecting the city with a nearby village. Officials said the rescue was launched immediately after a distress call and all three people were brought to safety. The state government said restoration work has progressed rapidly following the exceptionally heavy rainfall recorded between July 23 and 27. Of the 1,540 roads that were closed due to flooding and damage, 1,451 have already been reopened. South Gujarat bore the brunt of the rainfall, with 1,251 roads shut during the peak of the flooding. Officials said more than 98 per cent of those roads have since been restored after round-the-clock repair work involving over 1,400 personnel and hundreds of heavy machines. Also read | Assam flood toll rises; CM Himanta announces ₹9 lakh aid for victims' families Odisha: Villages inundated, opposition questions government's response Floodwaters entered Dokandar village under Kanas block in Odisha's Puri district, inundating homes and disrupting normal life. Residents said they were facing shortages of drinking water, food, electricity and other essential supplies as water entered residential areas. Villagers appealed for immediate relief while authorities said they were monitoring the situation and carrying out relief measures. The flood situation also triggered a political confrontation, with both the Biju Janata Dal and the Congress accusing the state government of inadequate preparedness and questioning Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's visit to Delhi while several districts remained affected. Jammu and Kashmir: Cloudburst damages shops in Kishtwar A cloudburst struck the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district early on Saturday, damaging several commercial establishments. Union Minister Jitendra Singh said there had been no loss of life and that compensation would be provided for damaged shops. He also said early warning systems had been installed in Kishtwar and Machhail following last year's Chasoti cloudburst, with an automatic weather station also being set up in the Padder area. Himachal Pradesh: Monsoon continues to disrupt normal life Intermittent rainfall continued across Himachal Pradesh, with Shimla witnessing persistent showers that attracted tourists but disrupted everyday life for residents. The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain across the state, with heavy rainfall likely at isolated places until August 4. It has warned of possible landslides, flash floods, waterlogging and slippery roads. Meanwhile, the Bhakra Beas Management Board released an additional 12,000 cusecs of water from the Pandoh Dam after increased inflows, taking total discharge into the Beas River to around 36,000 cusecs. Authorities have advised people to stay away from riverbanks as water levels could rise further.

Heavy rain continued to batter India as Assam's flood death toll rose to 80, Kerala witnessed flash floods after a 300 mm cloudburst-like downpour, and Gujarat, Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh grappled with flooding, rescue operations and weather alerts.

India floods: Death toll rises in Assam; Kerala, Gujarat and Odisha battle heavy rain

Anthropic, the tech firm behind Claude AI, has revealed that India has quietly become one of the world's biggest AI users. India, according to Anthropic's latest Economic Index, which analysed nearly one million Claude.ai conversations globally, India now accounts for 5.8 per cent of all Claude usage, second only to the United States.But what are they using the AI for? Indians aren't asking AI to write poems or plan holidays. They're asking it to write code, solve complex problems and save hours of work.<h2>How many Indians are using the technology?</h2>India may be the world's second-largest Claude market, yet the average Indian still isn't using AI very much. Instead, usage is heavily concentrated among software professionals in a handful of technology hubs.The report offers one of the clearest snapshots yet of who is using AI in India, what they're asking it to do, and why India's AI story looks very different from the rest of the world.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/india-s-next-terror-threat-may-not-cross-the-border-it-may-enter-through-your-phone-wion-decodes-1784346117443">India's next terror threat may not cross the border. It may enter through your phone | WION Decodes</a>

Top 20 countries by share of global Claude.ai use. Bars show each country’s share of total conversations observed Novemb

<h2>India is No. 2 globally... but 101st per person</h2>This is perhaps the report's biggest surprise. India contributes 5.8 per cent of all Claude conversations globally, yet when adjusted for population, India falls to 101st out of 116 countries.That means India's AI boom isn't being driven by widespread adoption. It's being driven by scale. What it means is that India isn't yet an AI-first society. It's an AI-heavy professional economy. So, which states are using AI the most?<h2>Four states dominate India's AI use</h2>AI adoption isn't spread evenly across the country. More than half of India's Claude usage comes from just four places:Maharashtra (15.5 per cent) Tamil Nadu (13.2 per cent) Karnataka (12.7 per cent) Delhi (10.5 per cent)These are also India's biggest IT and services hubs, home to cities such as Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai and Delhi NCR.The geography tells its own story. Rather than becoming a mass consumer technology, AI today appears to be an extension of India's existing software industry.<h2>So what are Indians actually asking AI to do?</h2>While AIs like Elon Musk's Grok have dominated headlines for its use to create nude, stripped-down images of young girls and women, Indians aren't using Claude AI for something that nefarious. Indians are overwhelmingly using the AI to write software.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-s-xai-sues-minnesota-over-a-law-banning-ai-nude-images-of-children-claims-it-violates-free-speech-1785377389876">Elon Musk's xAI sues Minnesota over a law banning AI nude images of children, claims it violates free speech</a>According to Anthropic, 45.2 per cent of all AI-related occupational tasks in India are software-related. That's the highest share anywhere in the world.India even ranks ahead of Vietnam and Egypt in the proportion of AI use devoted to programming and software engineering.Education is the second major use case, with students increasingly relying on AI for learning, explanations and coursework. By contrast, relatively fewer Indians use Claude for casual or personal purposes compared with the global average.

Most common O*NET (Occupational Information Network) tasks among Claude use in India.

<h2>AI is saving Indians nearly four hours of work</h2>One statistic stands out above almost every other. The average task Indian users give Claude would normally take 3.8 hours to complete.With AI? The task just takes 14.8 minutes. That's roughly a 15-fold productivity boost. Globally, the average improvement is around 12 times faster.This suggests Indian users aren't giving AI simple jobs. They're bringing complex, time-consuming work and using AI to compress hours into minutes.<h2>Indians trust AI more than the rest of the world</h2>The report also found Indian users are more willing to let AI make decisions on their behalf.Anthropic measures something it calls AI autonomy, essentially how much responsibility users hand over to the model. India scored 3.60 out of 5, compared with the global average of 3.38.In practical terms, that means Indian users are more likely to ask AI to independently generate code, solve problems or complete substantial portions of work, rather than simply acting as an assistant.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/scary-rogue-ai-on-the-loose-openai-agent-hit-another-tech-firm-s-customer-suggests-report-1785292505727">'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report</a><h2>Many Indians are using AI for things they couldn't do themselves</h2>Another revealing finding concerns human capability. Globally, nearly 88 per cent of AI tasks could theoretically have been completed by the user without AI. In India, that figure drops to 84.6 per cent.It may sound like a small difference, but it suggests Indian users are more frequently turning to AI for genuinely difficult tasks, including programming in unfamiliar languages, solving technical problems or tackling work beyond their existing expertise.In other words, in India, AI isn't just replacing effort. It's expanding capability.<h2>Good prompts really do matter</h2>One of the report's most interesting observations concerns prompting. Anthropic found a strong relationship between the sophistication of a user's prompt and the quality of the AI's response.Indian users ranked among the top 10 per cent globally in the complexity of AI-generated outputs they received.That doesn't necessarily mean Indians are better prompt engineers. But it does suggest many are asking AI sophisticated, work-oriented questions that produce equally sophisticated answers.

Anthropic's latest Economic Index has found that India accounts for 5.8% of global Claude AI usage—second only to the US. But what are they using it for? The answer may surprise you.

Anthropic, the tech firm behind Claude AI, has revealed that India has quietly become one of the world's biggest AI users. India, according to Anthropic's latest Economic Index, which analysed nearly one million Claude.ai conversations globally, India now accounts for 5.8 per cent of all Claude usage, second only to the United States. But what are they using the AI for? Indians aren't asking AI to write poems or plan holidays. They're asking it to write code, solve complex problems and save hours of work. How many Indians are using the technology? India may be the world's second-largest Claude market, yet the average Indian still isn't using AI very much. Instead, usage is heavily concentrated among software professionals in a handful of technology hubs. The report offers one of the clearest snapshots yet of who is using AI in India, what they're asking it to do, and why India's AI story looks very different from the rest of the world. Also read | India's next terror threat may not cross the border. It may enter through your phone | WION Decodes

Anthropic's latest Economic Index has found that India accounts for 5.8% of global Claude AI usage—second only to the US. But what are they using it for? The answer may surprise you.

Anthropic reveals India is Claude AI's No. 2 market. But what are Indians actually using the AI for? | WION Decodes

India's top court has laid down new rules that could affect every apartment society, office building, and mall with an elevator. In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jul 29) held that lift accidents are not the responsibility of just one party. Instead, the manufacturer, maintenance agency, and building owner can all be held jointly liable when something goes wrong.The verdict, arising from a 22-year-old fatal lift accident, is expected to reshape how lifts are maintained, inspected, and managed across India's rapidly growing cities. Here's all you need to know about the landmark SC ruling.<h2>Why did the Supreme Court intervene?</h2>The judgment stems from the 2003 death of former diplomat Vipin Handa at the R&amp;AW headquarters in New Delhi.The lift had reportedly become stuck between the sixth and seventh floors. During the rescue operation, it suddenly slipped. Handa, who was halfway out of the elevator, was fatally crushed. Eleven others were rescued safely.Otis Elevator, the manufacturer, argued before the court that the immediate cause was "human error" during the rescue.The Supreme Court disagreed with the elevator manufacturer's claim. It said the records showed the elevator had been malfunctioning for a long time and that multiple agencies were aware of the problems but failed to act.The court upheld compensation of ₹3.01 crore to Handa's family, along with interest.<h2>Three major rules laid down by the Supreme Court</h2><h3>1. A lift is now treated like a 'common carrier'</h3>One of the biggest legal shifts is the court's decision to classify elevators as common carriers, similar to public transport. The reasoning behind this is simple. Once passengers enter a lift, they surrender complete control over their safety. They cannot steer it, stop it or inspect its condition.Because users place complete trust in the system, the court said everyone involved in making that system work owes passengers a higher duty of care. "In such a setting, even a slight jolt, a sudden halt or an unusual noise from the machinery can instill fear in passengers. It serves as a reminder to every passenger that safety is not merely an expectation but a fundamental guarantee that every lift must provide," the Supreme Court said.<h3>2. Responsibility will be shared, not shifted</h3>Earlier, accident cases often turned into a blame game. The manufacturer blames the maintenance company; the maintenance company in turn blames the building owner; and the building owner blames the contractor.The Supreme Court has now made it clear that victims should not have to untangle this chain. It said that a victim or their family can seek compensation from any liable party. If one party believes another bears a larger share of responsibility, they can settle those liabilities among themselves later.In the Vipin Handa case, Otis Elevators (the manufacturer) sought to blame the maintenance company. It claimed that it had previously advised the installation of a stabiliser to address voltage fluctuation issues, but this recommendation was not implemented. In its ruling, the court found that the liability rests with:<ul><li>Otis Elevator Company – 70 per cent</li><li>Military Engineering Services (maintenance oversight) – 25 per cent</li><li>Government department managing the building – 5 per cent</li></ul><h3>3. Knowing about faults and doing nothing is unacceptable</h3>The court noted that the lift had a documented history of malfunctioning. Despite knowing this, the manufacturer did not ensure adequate safety measures or declare the lift unsafe. Similarly, maintenance authorities failed to supervise repairs properly, while the building managers allegedly ignored repeated complaints.In other words, awareness without action can itself amount to liability.<h2>What does this mean for apartment societies and commercial buildings?</h2>The ruling significantly raises the bar for everyone responsible for operating lifts.For Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), housing societies, office complexes, hospitals and malls, routine maintenance is no longer just good practice. It is a legal responsibility. Ignoring recurring complaints, delaying repairs or continuing to operate a lift known to have faults could expose building managers to substantial legal liability if an accident occurs.&nbsp;Maintenance agencies, too, may now face greater scrutiny over inspection records, servicing schedules and safety certifications. Meanwhile, manufacturers cannot simply point to maintenance contracts if they were aware of persistent defects and failed to act.<h2>What changes for residents?</h2>For residents and regular lift users, the judgment strengthens consumer rights. If an accident occurs, victims are not expected to investigate who exactly was responsible before seeking compensation.Instead, they can pursue their claim against any of the responsible entities, leaving the manufacturer, maintenance contractor and building management to resolve liability among themselves.The ruling also reinforces the expectation that lifts should not continue operating if recurring defects remain unresolved.<h2>What societies and building managers should do now&nbsp;</h2>The judgment effectively creates a new compliance checklist for high-rise societies:<ul><li>Ensure lifts undergo regular inspection and preventive maintenance.</li><li>Maintain written service and repair records.</li><li>Act immediately on repeated complaints or unusual lift behaviour.</li><li>Do not continue operating lifts with unresolved safety defects.</li><li>Clearly define responsibilities between manufacturers, maintenance agencies and building management.</li><li>Review insurance coverage for lift-related accidents. &nbsp;</li></ul>

The Supreme Court has ruled that manufacturers, maintenance agencies and building owners can all be held jointly liable for lift accidents, classifying elevators as "common carriers" and introducing stricter legal responsibilities. Here's all you need to know.

India's top court has laid down new rules that could affect every apartment society, office building, and mall with an elevator. In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jul 29) held that lift accidents are not the responsibility of just one party. Instead, the manufacturer, maintenance agency, and building owner can all be held jointly liable when something goes wrong. The verdict, arising from a 22-year-old fatal lift accident, is expected to reshape how lifts are maintained, inspected, and managed across India's rapidly growing cities. Here's all you need to know about the landmark SC ruling. Why did the Supreme Court intervene? The judgment stems from the 2003 death of former diplomat Vipin Handa at the R&AW headquarters in New Delhi. The lift had reportedly become stuck between the sixth and seventh floors. During the rescue operation, it suddenly slipped. Handa, who was halfway out of the elevator, was fatally crushed. Eleven others were rescued safely. Otis Elevator, the manufacturer, argued before the court that the immediate cause was "human error" during the rescue. The Supreme Court disagreed with the elevator manufacturer's claim. It said the records showed the elevator had been malfunctioning for a long time and that multiple agencies were aware of the problems but failed to act. The court upheld compensation of ₹3.01 crore to Handa's family, along with interest. Three major rules laid down by the Supreme Court 1. A lift is now treated like a 'common carrier' One of the biggest legal shifts is the court's decision to classify elevators as common carriers, similar to public transport. The reasoning behind this is simple. Once passengers enter a lift, they surrender complete control over their safety. They cannot steer it, stop it or inspect its condition. Because users place complete trust in the system, the court said everyone involved in making that system work owes passengers a higher duty of care. "In such a setting, even a slight jolt, a sudden halt or an unusual noise from the machinery can instill fear in passengers. It serves as a reminder to every passenger that safety is not merely an expectation but a fundamental guarantee that every lift must provide," the Supreme Court said. 2. Responsibility will be shared, not shifted Earlier, accident cases often turned into a blame game. The manufacturer blames the maintenance company; the maintenance company in turn blames the building owner; and the building owner blames the contractor. The Supreme Court has now made it clear that victims should not have to untangle this chain. It said that a victim or their family can seek compensation from any liable party. If one party believes another bears a larger share of responsibility, they can settle those liabilities among themselves later. In the Vipin Handa case, Otis Elevators (the manufacturer) sought to blame the maintenance company. It claimed that it had previously advised the installation of a stabiliser to address voltage fluctuation issues, but this recommendation was not implemented. In its ruling, the court found that the liability rests with: Otis Elevator Company – 70 per cent Military Engineering Services (maintenance oversight) – 25 per cent Government department managing the building – 5 per cent 3. Knowing about faults and doing nothing is unacceptable The court noted that the lift had a documented history of malfunctioning. Despite knowing this, the manufacturer did not ensure adequate safety measures or declare the lift unsafe. Similarly, maintenance authorities failed to supervise repairs properly, while the building managers allegedly ignored repeated complaints. In other words, awareness without action can itself amount to liability. What does this mean for apartment societies and commercial buildings? The ruling significantly raises the bar for everyone responsible for operating lifts. For Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), housing societies, office complexes, hospitals and malls, routine maintenance is no longer just good practice. It is a legal responsibility. Ignoring recurring complaints, delaying repairs or continuing to operate a lift known to have faults could expose building managers to substantial legal liability if an accident occurs. Maintenance agencies, too, may now face greater scrutiny over inspection records, servicing schedules and safety certifications. Meanwhile, manufacturers cannot simply point to maintenance contracts if they were aware of persistent defects and failed to act. What changes for residents? For residents and regular lift users, the judgment strengthens consumer rights. If an accident occurs, victims are not expected to investigate who exactly was responsible before seeking compensation. Instead, they can pursue their claim against any of the responsible entities, leaving the manufacturer, maintenance contractor and building management to resolve liability among themselves. The ruling also reinforces the expectation that lifts should not continue operating if recurring defects remain unresolved. What societies and building managers should do now The judgment effectively creates a new compliance checklist for high-rise societies: Ensure lifts undergo regular inspection and preventive maintenance. Maintain written service and repair records. Act immediately on repeated complaints or unusual lift behaviour. Do not continue operating lifts with unresolved safety defects. Clearly define responsibilities between manufacturers, maintenance agencies and building management. Review insurance coverage for lift-related accidents.

The Supreme Court has ruled that manufacturers, maintenance agencies and building owners can all be held jointly liable for lift accidents, classifying elevators as "common carriers" and introducing stricter legal responsibilities. Here's all you need to know.

Lift accident? Maintenance, builders & makers are ALL liable now, rules Supreme Court: 3 major regulations | WION Decodes

China may soon be able to launch its own private sun. It's 21 metres long. It weighs as much as nearly 100 African elephants. It must survive temperatures colder than outer space while holding plasma that's 10 times hotter than the Sun's core. And it has to keep doing that for six decades.Beijing, as per reports, has achieved a fusion breakthrough. The nation completed and tested the world's largest superconducting fusion magnet, a critical component designed to create an invisible magnetic cage capable of containing matter at 150 million degrees Celsius. The breakthrough moves Beijing another step closer to its long-term goal of generating commercial fusion power.Here's all you need to know about what may be one of the most extreme engineering projects humanity has ever attempted.&nbsp;<h2>582 tonnes: Why build a magnet this enormous?</h2>At first glance, it looks like a giant steel ring. In reality, it's a 21-metre-long, 12-metre-wide, D-shaped superconducting magnet weighing 582 tonnes. That's heavier than a fully loaded Boeing 747.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/scary-rogue-ai-on-the-loose-openai-agent-hit-another-tech-firm-s-customer-suggests-report-1785292505727">'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report</a>Its job isn't to produce electricity. Its job is to do something arguably even harder: stop the hottest material ever created on Earth from touching anything.Inside a fusion reactor, hydrogen is heated until it becomes plasma, a superheated soup of charged particles. If that plasma touches the reactor walls for even an instant, it cools rapidly, damages the reactor, and the fusion reaction ends.The only way to prevent that is to suspend the plasma in mid-air using immensely powerful magnetic fields, creating what scientists often call an "invisible magnetic cage."<h2>150 million°C: Ten times hotter than the Sun's core</h2>Here's the number that may surprise most people. The Sun's core reaches roughly 15 million°C. China's fusion reactor aims to operate at around 150 million°C.That isn't because scientists are trying to outdo the Sun. The Sun's enormous gravity naturally squeezes hydrogen atoms together, allowing fusion to happen at relatively lower temperatures. On Earth, there's no such crushing pressure.Scientists have compensated by making the plasma dramatically hotter so hydrogen nuclei collide and fuse often enough to release energy.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/india-s-next-terror-threat-may-not-cross-the-border-it-may-enter-through-your-phone-wion-decodes-1784346117443">India's next terror threat may not cross the border. It may enter through your phone | WION Decodes</a><h2>Minus 269°C: Hotter than the Sun, colder than space... at the same time</h2>The engineering challenge becomes even more astonishing. While the plasma burns at 150 million°C, the magnet surrounding it must remain at around minus 269°C, just four degrees above absolute zero.Only at those ultra-low temperatures can superconductors carry enormous electrical currents without resistance.So, inside a single machine, temperatures differ by nearly 150 million degrees over a relatively short distance. Very few technologies in the world operate across such an extreme thermal range.100,000 amps: Enough electricity to power a cityThe magnet doesn't just need to be cold. It also needs to carry more than 100,000 amperes of current while wasting virtually no energy.To achieve that, engineers reduced the electrical resistance at critical joints to nearly zero, allowing electricity to flow continuously through superconducting coils.Without that, sustaining fusion for long periods would be impossible.<h2>60 years: Built to outlive generations</h2>Most cutting-edge scientific instruments need to be upgraded every few years. However, China claims this magnet has been engineered to operate reliably for around 60 years.During that time, it must repeatedly withstand intense radiation, powerful magnetic forces and enormous mechanical stresses without losing performance.Designing a machine to survive six decades under those conditions may prove just as difficult as achieving fusion itself.<h2>Why the world is chasing fusion</h2>Nuclear fusion has long been regarded as the ultimate energy prize because it promises electricity without burning fossil fuels. Unlike today's nuclear reactors, which split heavy atoms, fusion combines light hydrogen atoms to release enormous amounts of energy.The potential rewards are enormous:<ul><li>Fuel derived largely from hydrogen found in seawater</li><li>No carbon dioxide emissions during power generation</li><li>No risk of a runaway nuclear meltdown</li><li>Far less long-lived radioactive waste than conventional nuclear fission</li></ul>That promise has sparked a global race involving China, the United States, Europe, Japan and several private companies investing billions of dollars in fusion research.<h2>When will China's artificial sun be up?</h2>While China hopes to begin fusion power generation around 2030, many experts believe commercial deployment could still take decades.

What weighs as much as 100 elephants, runs at temperatures colder than space and is built to contain a miniature star? China's 'Artificial Sun' could change the future of energy. All you need to know.

China may soon be able to launch its own private sun. It's 21 metres long. It weighs as much as nearly 100 African elephants. It must survive temperatures colder than outer space while holding plasma that's 10 times hotter than the Sun's core. And it has to keep doing that for six decades. Beijing, as per reports, has achieved a fusion breakthrough. The nation completed and tested the world's largest superconducting fusion magnet, a critical component designed to create an invisible magnetic cage capable of containing matter at 150 million degrees Celsius. The breakthrough moves Beijing another step closer to its long-term goal of generating commercial fusion power. Here's all you need to know about what may be one of the most extreme engineering projects humanity has ever attempted. 582 tonnes: Why build a magnet this enormous? At first glance, it looks like a giant steel ring. In reality, it's a 21-metre-long, 12-metre-wide, D-shaped superconducting magnet weighing 582 tonnes. That's heavier than a fully loaded Boeing 747. Also read | 'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report Its job isn't to produce electricity. Its job is to do something arguably even harder: stop the hottest material ever created on Earth from touching anything. Inside a fusion reactor, hydrogen is heated until it becomes plasma, a superheated soup of charged particles. If that plasma touches the reactor walls for even an instant, it cools rapidly, damages the reactor, and the fusion reaction ends. The only way to prevent that is to suspend the plasma in mid-air using immensely powerful magnetic fields, creating what scientists often call an "invisible magnetic cage." 150 million°C: Ten times hotter than the Sun's core Here's the number that may surprise most people. The Sun's core reaches roughly 15 million°C. China's fusion reactor aims to operate at around 150 million°C. That isn't because scientists are trying to outdo the Sun. The Sun's enormous gravity naturally squeezes hydrogen atoms together, allowing fusion to happen at relatively lower temperatures. On Earth, there's no such crushing pressure. Scientists have compensated by making the plasma dramatically hotter so hydrogen nuclei collide and fuse often enough to release energy. Also read | India's next terror threat may not cross the border. It may enter through your phone | WION Decodes Minus 269°C: Hotter than the Sun, colder than space... at the same time The engineering challenge becomes even more astonishing. While the plasma burns at 150 million°C, the magnet surrounding it must remain at around minus 269°C, just four degrees above absolute zero. Only at those ultra-low temperatures can superconductors carry enormous electrical currents without resistance. So, inside a single machine, temperatures differ by nearly 150 million degrees over a relatively short distance. Very few technologies in the world operate across such an extreme thermal range. 100,000 amps: Enough electricity to power a city The magnet doesn't just need to be cold. It also needs to carry more than 100,000 amperes of current while wasting virtually no energy. To achieve that, engineers reduced the electrical resistance at critical joints to nearly zero, allowing electricity to flow continuously through superconducting coils. Without that, sustaining fusion for long periods would be impossible. 60 years: Built to outlive generations Most cutting-edge scientific instruments need to be upgraded every few years. However, China claims this magnet has been engineered to operate reliably for around 60 years. During that time, it must repeatedly withstand intense radiation, powerful magnetic forces and enormous mechanical stresses without losing performance. Designing a machine to survive six decades under those conditions may prove just as difficult as achieving fusion itself. Why the world is chasing fusion Nuclear fusion has long been regarded as the ultimate energy prize because it promises electricity without burning fossil fuels. Unlike today's nuclear reactors, which split heavy atoms, fusion combines light hydrogen atoms to release enormous amounts of energy. The potential rewards are enormous: Fuel derived largely from hydrogen found in seawater No carbon dioxide emissions during power generation No risk of a runaway nuclear meltdown Far less long-lived radioactive waste than conventional nuclear fission That promise has sparked a global race involving China, the United States, Europe, Japan and several private companies investing billions of dollars in fusion research. When will China's artificial sun be up? While China hopes to begin fusion power generation around 2030, many experts believe commercial deployment could still take decades.

What weighs as much as 100 elephants, runs at temperatures colder than space and is built to contain a miniature star? China's 'Artificial Sun' could change the future of energy. All you need to know.

582 tonnes, 150 million°C, 60 years: WION Decodes the mind-boggling numbers behind China's 'Artificial Sun'

With just two days left before the July 31 income tax return (ITR) deadline, many taxpayers are still stuck on one question: Should you file under the old tax regime or the new one? It's a decision that can directly affect how much tax you pay, and unlike previous years, the answer isn't the same for everyone. With the July 31 deadline fast approaching, taking a few extra minutes to compare both regimes could save you money and prevent an expensive filing mistake.Notably, the new tax regime is now the default option. But that doesn't automatically mean it's the better choice. Here's a last-minute guide to help you decide before you hit "Submit".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-income-tax-return-2026-filing-itr-this-year-here-s-how-ai-could-save-or-sink-your-return-1783653826947">India Income Tax Return 2026: Filing ITR this year? Here's how AI could save, or sink, your return</a><h2>New regime vs old regime: The biggest differences</h2>The choice boils down to a simple trade-off.The old tax regime lets you reduce your taxable income by claiming deductions and exemptions. These include popular benefits such as Section 80C investments, health insurance under Section 80D, home loan interest, HRA and Leave Travel Allowance (LTA).The new tax regime, on the other hand, offers lower tax rates but removes most of these exemptions and deductions.So the question isn't which regime has lower tax rates. It's whether your deductions are large enough to make the old regime worthwhile.<h2>The old regime may work better for you if...</h2>You could save more tax under the old regime if you:<ul><li>Claim the full Section 80C deduction through EPF, PPF, ELSS or life insurance</li><li>Pay significant health insurance premiums</li><li>Receive House Rent Allowance (HRA)</li><li>Have a home loan with substantial interest payments</li><li>Regularly claim deductions under multiple sections of the Income Tax Act</li></ul>For many salaried employees who maximise these benefits every year, the old regime can still result in a lower tax bill.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/itr-last-date-2026-what-happens-if-you-miss-deadline-know-about-late-fees-interest-delayed-refunds-1785137854083">ITR last date 2026: What happens if you miss deadline?</a><h2>The new regime may suit you if...</h2>The new regime is often the simpler choice if you:<ul><li>Don't claim many deductions</li><li>Have recently started working</li><li>Don't have a home loan</li><li>Live in your own house or don't receive HRA</li><li>Prefer straightforward tax filing without maintaining investment proofs</li></ul>Many young professionals fall into this category, making the new regime financially attractive as well as easier to manage.<h2>Can't I just use the same tax regime I used last year?</h2>One of the biggest mistakes taxpayers make is assuming the same regime that worked last year will also work this year. A salary hike, a new home loan, changes in investments, or even switching jobs can alter the calculation significantly.If your employer already deducted TDS under one regime, don't panic. While filing your return, you can still choose the regime you're eligible for, subject to the applicable tax rules.<h2>A few things to check before filing</h2>Before submitting your ITR, make sure you have:<ul><li>Verified your Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS</li><li>Checked that salary, bank interest and capital gains are correctly reflected</li><li>Claimed all eligible deductions, if opting for the old regime</li><li>Selected the correct tax regime before filing</li><li>E-verified your return after submission</li></ul><h2>The bottom line</h2>There's no universal winner in the old-versus-new tax debate. To sum it up, if you've spent the year investing, paying insurance premiums or servicing a home loan, the old regime may still leave you with a lower tax outgo. If you have few deductions and want a hassle-free filing experience, the new regime could be the better option.

With the July 31 income tax return deadline approaching, taxpayers need to decide whether to file under the old or new tax regime. Here's a last-minute comparison before you submit your 2026 ITR.

With just two days left before the July 31 income tax return (ITR) deadline, many taxpayers are still stuck on one question: Should you file under the old tax regime or the new one? It's a decision that can directly affect how much tax you pay, and unlike previous years, the answer isn't the same for everyone. With the July 31 deadline fast approaching, taking a few extra minutes to compare both regimes could save you money and prevent an expensive filing mistake. Notably, the new tax regime is now the default option. But that doesn't automatically mean it's the better choice. Here's a last-minute guide to help you decide before you hit "Submit". Also read | India Income Tax Return 2026: Filing ITR this year? Here's how AI could save, or sink, your return New regime vs old regime: The biggest differences The choice boils down to a simple trade-off. The old tax regime lets you reduce your taxable income by claiming deductions and exemptions. These include popular benefits such as Section 80C investments, health insurance under Section 80D, home loan interest, HRA and Leave Travel Allowance (LTA). The new tax regime, on the other hand, offers lower tax rates but removes most of these exemptions and deductions. So the question isn't which regime has lower tax rates. It's whether your deductions are large enough to make the old regime worthwhile. The old regime may work better for you if... You could save more tax under the old regime if you: Claim the full Section 80C deduction through EPF, PPF, ELSS or life insurance Pay significant health insurance premiums Receive House Rent Allowance (HRA) Have a home loan with substantial interest payments Regularly claim deductions under multiple sections of the Income Tax Act For many salaried employees who maximise these benefits every year, the old regime can still result in a lower tax bill. Also read | ITR last date 2026: What happens if you miss deadline? The new regime may suit you if... The new regime is often the simpler choice if you: Don't claim many deductions Have recently started working Don't have a home loan Live in your own house or don't receive HRA Prefer straightforward tax filing without maintaining investment proofs Many young professionals fall into this category, making the new regime financially attractive as well as easier to manage. Can't I just use the same tax regime I used last year? One of the biggest mistakes taxpayers make is assuming the same regime that worked last year will also work this year. A salary hike, a new home loan, changes in investments, or even switching jobs can alter the calculation significantly. If your employer already deducted TDS under one regime, don't panic. While filing your return, you can still choose the regime you're eligible for, subject to the applicable tax rules. A few things to check before filing Before submitting your ITR, make sure you have: Verified your Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS Checked that salary, bank interest and capital gains are correctly reflected Claimed all eligible deductions, if opting for the old regime Selected the correct tax regime before filing E-verified your return after submission The bottom line There's no universal winner in the old-versus-new tax debate. To sum it up, if you've spent the year investing, paying insurance premiums or servicing a home loan, the old regime may still leave you with a lower tax outgo. If you have few deductions and want a hassle-free filing experience, the new regime could be the better option.

With the July 31 income tax return deadline approaching, taxpayers need to decide whether to file under the old or new tax regime. Here's a last-minute comparison before you submit your 2026 ITR.

ITR deadline is July 31. Still haven't filed? Here's how to pick the right tax regime before it's too late

Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s return to Parliament on Monday (Jul 27) was marked by high political drama. Greeted with high-energy chants of "Dharmendra Pradhan zindabad" from BJP and NDA MPs, his reception immediately drew sharp criticism from Opposition benches. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for celebrating following weeks of intense scrutiny over the NEET paper leak controversy that triggered Pradhan’s resignation.The show of solidarity inside Parliament has reignited a crucial question: after stepping down from the Cabinet, does Pradhan return to the BJP’s organizational engine room, or is a political comeback on the horizon? While the party leadership has made no official announcement, the public display of support makes one thing clear: Pradhan remains a key political asset for the BJP.<h2>What's next for Pradhan?</h2>If the BJP does choose to redeploy Pradhan, the safest bet, for now, appears to be the organisation rather than the Cabinet. Pradhan has long been described as one of the party's seasoned election managers. Within the BJP, he has long been regarded as an experienced organisation builder and election strategist, having previously served as the party's National General Secretary and as election or organisational in-charge for states including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.That track record matters because the BJP tends to lean on senior leaders who understand booth-level strategy, coalition arithmetic and campaign management. The party has already used Pradhan in this role before, including as Bihar election in-charge, which reinforces the sense that he remains an asset in state-level battles.While a return to the election machinery, whether in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab or another state, would fit his resume, there is no official BJP announcement pointing to that assignment yet.<h2>Odisha remains his natural turf</h2>If the BJP wants to use Pradhan where he already has political weight, Odisha is the obvious place to look. Reuters describes him as a key figure in the state's BJP rise, with deep roots in the party's organisation and a record of helping shape its electoral gains there.That makes a larger Odisha role, or even a broader national organisational assignment, more plausible than a random return to a ministry. It would also allow the party to use him where he is already known as a strategist rather than simply a former minister.<h2>A Cabinet return in the cards?</h2>Given the apparent hatred for Pradhan among Gen Z and the younger generations, a quick return to government doesn't seem plausible.The education ministry has already been handed to Pralhad Joshi, and BJP leader Sambit Patra has dismissed reports suggesting that Pradhan was offered a new portfolio as "fictional" and "unfounded."However, that does not rule out a Cabinet role later, but it does make an immediate comeback to government less likely than a return to party work. For now, the official picture is simple: Pradhan remains an influential BJP face, but there is no confirmed assignment beyond his role as a sitting MP.<h2>So, what next for Dharmendra Pradhan?</h2>While Pradhan's future remains undecided, the evidence points more strongly toward an organisational or election-management role than a fresh Cabinet berth. His experience in Odisha and multiple states gives the BJP a ready-made strategist if it chooses to deploy him again. Notably, until the party says otherwise, all this remains speculation.

Dharmendra Pradhan's warm welcome by BJP and NDA MPs in Parliament has reignited speculation over his political future. While the party has announced no new role, here's what may be in his future.

Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s return to Parliament on Monday (Jul 27) was marked by high political drama. Greeted with high-energy chants of "Dharmendra Pradhan zindabad" from BJP and NDA MPs, his reception immediately drew sharp criticism from Opposition benches. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for celebrating following weeks of intense scrutiny over the NEET paper leak controversy that triggered Pradhan’s resignation. The show of solidarity inside Parliament has reignited a crucial question: after stepping down from the Cabinet, does Pradhan return to the BJP’s organizational engine room, or is a political comeback on the horizon? While the party leadership has made no official announcement, the public display of support makes one thing clear: Pradhan remains a key political asset for the BJP. What's next for Pradhan? If the BJP does choose to redeploy Pradhan, the safest bet, for now, appears to be the organisation rather than the Cabinet. Pradhan has long been described as one of the party's seasoned election managers. Within the BJP, he has long been regarded as an experienced organisation builder and election strategist, having previously served as the party's National General Secretary and as election or organisational in-charge for states including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. That track record matters because the BJP tends to lean on senior leaders who understand booth-level strategy, coalition arithmetic and campaign management. The party has already used Pradhan in this role before, including as Bihar election in-charge, which reinforces the sense that he remains an asset in state-level battles. While a return to the election machinery, whether in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab or another state, would fit his resume, there is no official BJP announcement pointing to that assignment yet. Odisha remains his natural turf If the BJP wants to use Pradhan where he already has political weight, Odisha is the obvious place to look. Reuters describes him as a key figure in the state's BJP rise, with deep roots in the party's organisation and a record of helping shape its electoral gains there. That makes a larger Odisha role, or even a broader national organisational assignment, more plausible than a random return to a ministry. It would also allow the party to use him where he is already known as a strategist rather than simply a former minister. A Cabinet return in the cards? Given the apparent hatred for Pradhan among Gen Z and the younger generations, a quick return to government doesn't seem plausible. The education ministry has already been handed to Pralhad Joshi, and BJP leader Sambit Patra has dismissed reports suggesting that Pradhan was offered a new portfolio as "fictional" and "unfounded." However, that does not rule out a Cabinet role later, but it does make an immediate comeback to government less likely than a return to party work. For now, the official picture is simple: Pradhan remains an influential BJP face, but there is no confirmed assignment beyond his role as a sitting MP. So, what next for Dharmendra Pradhan? While Pradhan's future remains undecided, the evidence points more strongly toward an organisational or election-management role than a fresh Cabinet berth. His experience in Odisha and multiple states gives the BJP a ready-made strategist if it chooses to deploy him again. Notably, until the party says otherwise, all this remains speculation.

Dharmendra Pradhan's warm welcome by BJP and NDA MPs in Parliament has reignited speculation over his political future. While the party has announced no new role, here's what may be in his future.

Dharmendra Pradhan’s parliament return sparks comeback speculation: What’s next for the BJP heavyweight? | WION Decodes

India could soon join a growing list of countries replacing traditional paper currency with polymer, or plastic, banknotes. The Reserve Bank of India's currency-printing subsidiary, Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited (BRBNMPL), on July 17, 2026, floated a Global Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting manufacturers to supply security-grade polymer substrate for Indian banknotes.While the RBI has not yet announced the launch of plastic currency, its global tender is widely being seen as the first concrete step towards field trials of polymer currency, likely beginning with the ₹10 and ₹20 denominations.If the trials succeed, India may eventually print more denominations on plastic instead of cotton-based paper. But why is the RBI considering the switch? Will your existing notes become invalid? And are plastic notes really safer and cheaper? Here's what we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-invokes-chandra-shekhar-azad-s-unwavering-patriotism-as-neet-protests-enter-day-34-is-there-a-hidden-message-1784788286963">PM Modi invokes Chandra Shekhar Azad's 'unwavering patriotism' as NEET protests enter Day 34. Is there a hidden message?</a><h2>Why is the RBI planning the switch now?</h2>The immediate reason may be durability and cost. Lower-denomination notes such as ₹10 and ₹20 circulate rapidly, changing hands countless times every day. As a result, they become dirty, torn and unfit for circulation much faster than higher-value notes.According to the BRBNMPL tender, the RBI is seeking 68,000 reams of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP)-based polymer substrate, split equally for two denominations. The tender also states that larger procurement could follow if field trials are successful.<h2>What exactly are polymer banknotes?</h2>Despite being called "plastic money", polymer notes are not made from ordinary plastic. They are manufactured from a specially engineered polymer substrate, usually biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), designed specifically for banknotes.Unlike India's current cotton-based paper currency, polymer notes do not absorb moisture, dirt or oils from human hands.This allows them to remain cleaner and structurally stronger throughout their lifespan.<h2>How much longer do plastic notes last?</h2>One of the biggest advantages is longevity. Studies and central bank experience show polymer notes typically remain in circulation two to two-and-a-half times longer than conventional paper notes.Their non-porous surface makes them resistant to Moisture, dirt, sweat, grease and everyday wear and tear.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-tomatoes-to-jewellery-10-things-that-got-costlier-in-june-5-that-became-cheaper-and-which-states-were-hit-hardest-by-retail-inflation-1784014937128">From tomatoes to jewellery: 10 things that got costlier in June, 5 that became cheaper, and which states were hit hardest by retail inflation</a><h2>Will this reduce the RBI's printing costs?</h2>Not immediately. Notably, polymer notes generally cost more to manufacture than paper notes. However, over a longer duration, central banks recover that extra cost because the notes last much longer.That means that fewer replacement print runs will be needed. Additionally, it would mean lower and far less frequent transportation costs, reduced destruction of worn-out notes, and lower long-term currency management expenses.The RBI appears to be targeting ₹10 and ₹20 notes first precisely because these denominations suffer the highest wear and tear in circulation.<h2>Can plastic notes stop fake currency?</h2>Not entirely, but they make counterfeiting considerably harder. Unlike paper notes, polymer banknotes can incorporate features that are extremely difficult to reproduce, including transparent windows, metallic numerals, embedded holographic elements, magnetic pseudo threads, shadow images, and iridescent security patterns.The BRBNMPL tender specifically requires several of these security features for India's proposed polymer notes. "The bidder should also have the capacity and capability to manufacture and supply clear window with portrait, metallic numeral, magnetic pseudo thread, shadow image, iridescent pattern etc," it reads.Counterfeiters can still attempt to forge polymer notes, but replicating the substrate and embedded security features is substantially more challenging than copying traditional paper currency.<h2>Are polymer notes better for visually impaired users?</h2>Because polymer banknotes can incorporate raised tactile features directly into the substrate, they might be better for the visually impaired. Unlike embossed markings on paper notes, which gradually wear away, these tactile elements generally remain effective throughout the note's life, making denomination recognition easier for visually impaired users.<h2>Are plastic notes actually more environmentally friendly?</h2>Surprisingly, many central banks say yes. Although polymer notes are plastic-based, they stay in circulation much longer, meaning fewer notes need to be printed, transported and destroyed.At the end of their useful life, many polymer banknotes can also be recycled into plastic products instead of being incinerated or shredded.The overall environmental benefit comes from using fewer replacement notes over time, rather than from the material itself.<h2>Which countries already use polymer currency?</h2>Australia pioneered the technology and became the first country to fully convert its banknotes to polymer.Since then, dozens of countries have adopted polymer currency, including:<ol><li>Canada</li><li>United Kingdom</li><li>New Zealand</li><li>Mexico</li><li>Brazil</li><li>Saudi Arabia</li><li>Romania</li><li>Barbados</li></ol>Globally, around 45 countries had introduced polymer banknotes by 2023, with adoption continuing to grow.Will your existing notes become invalid?Nothing announced so far suggests that. The current move is only towards field trials, beginning with lower-value notes.If polymer notes are introduced, they are expected to circulate alongside existing paper notes during the transition, much like previous design changes in Indian currency.There is no indication that the RBI plans a demonetisation or immediate withdrawal of paper notes as part of this initiative. &nbsp;

The RBI has taken its clearest step yet towards introducing polymer banknotes. But why replace paper notes that have been in use for decades? WION Decodes

India could soon join a growing list of countries replacing traditional paper currency with polymer, or plastic, banknotes. The Reserve Bank of India's currency-printing subsidiary, Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited (BRBNMPL), on July 17, 2026, floated a Global Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting manufacturers to supply security-grade polymer substrate for Indian banknotes. While the RBI has not yet announced the launch of plastic currency, its global tender is widely being seen as the first concrete step towards field trials of polymer currency, likely beginning with the ₹10 and ₹20 denominations. If the trials succeed, India may eventually print more denominations on plastic instead of cotton-based paper. But why is the RBI considering the switch? Will your existing notes become invalid? And are plastic notes really safer and cheaper? Here's what we know. Also read | PM Modi invokes Chandra Shekhar Azad's 'unwavering patriotism' as NEET protests enter Day 34. Is there a hidden message? Why is the RBI planning the switch now? The immediate reason may be durability and cost. Lower-denomination notes such as ₹10 and ₹20 circulate rapidly, changing hands countless times every day. As a result, they become dirty, torn and unfit for circulation much faster than higher-value notes. According to the BRBNMPL tender, the RBI is seeking 68,000 reams of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP)-based polymer substrate, split equally for two denominations. The tender also states that larger procurement could follow if field trials are successful. What exactly are polymer banknotes? Despite being called "plastic money", polymer notes are not made from ordinary plastic. They are manufactured from a specially engineered polymer substrate, usually biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), designed specifically for banknotes. Unlike India's current cotton-based paper currency, polymer notes do not absorb moisture, dirt or oils from human hands. This allows them to remain cleaner and structurally stronger throughout their lifespan. How much longer do plastic notes last? One of the biggest advantages is longevity. Studies and central bank experience show polymer notes typically remain in circulation two to two-and-a-half times longer than conventional paper notes. Their non-porous surface makes them resistant to Moisture, dirt, sweat, grease and everyday wear and tear. Also read | From tomatoes to jewellery: 10 things that got costlier in June, 5 that became cheaper, and which states were hit hardest by retail inflation Will this reduce the RBI's printing costs? Not immediately. Notably, polymer notes generally cost more to manufacture than paper notes. However, over a longer duration, central banks recover that extra cost because the notes last much longer. That means that fewer replacement print runs will be needed. Additionally, it would mean lower and far less frequent transportation costs, reduced destruction of worn-out notes, and lower long-term currency management expenses. The RBI appears to be targeting ₹10 and ₹20 notes first precisely because these denominations suffer the highest wear and tear in circulation. Can plastic notes stop fake currency? Not entirely, but they make counterfeiting considerably harder. Unlike paper notes, polymer banknotes can incorporate features that are extremely difficult to reproduce, including transparent windows, metallic numerals, embedded holographic elements, magnetic pseudo threads, shadow images, and iridescent security patterns. The BRBNMPL tender specifically requires several of these security features for India's proposed polymer notes. "The bidder should also have the capacity and capability to manufacture and supply clear window with portrait, metallic numeral, magnetic pseudo thread, shadow image, iridescent pattern etc," it reads. Counterfeiters can still attempt to forge polymer notes, but replicating the substrate and embedded security features is substantially more challenging than copying traditional paper currency. Are polymer notes better for visually impaired users? Because polymer banknotes can incorporate raised tactile features directly into the substrate, they might be better for the visually impaired. Unlike embossed markings on paper notes, which gradually wear away, these tactile elements generally remain effective throughout the note's life, making denomination recognition easier for visually impaired users. Are plastic notes actually more environmentally friendly? Surprisingly, many central banks say yes. Although polymer notes are plastic-based, they stay in circulation much longer, meaning fewer notes need to be printed, transported and destroyed. At the end of their useful life, many polymer banknotes can also be recycled into plastic products instead of being incinerated or shredded. The overall environmental benefit comes from using fewer replacement notes over time, rather than from the material itself. Which countries already use polymer currency? Australia pioneered the technology and became the first country to fully convert its banknotes to polymer. Since then, dozens of countries have adopted polymer currency, including: Canada United Kingdom New Zealand Mexico Brazil Saudi Arabia Romania Barbados Globally, around 45 countries had introduced polymer banknotes by 2023, with adoption continuing to grow. Will your existing notes become invalid? Nothing announced so far suggests that. The current move is only towards field trials, beginning with lower-value notes. If polymer notes are introduced, they are expected to circulate alongside existing paper notes during the transition, much like previous design changes in Indian currency. There is no indication that the RBI plans a demonetisation or immediate withdrawal of paper notes as part of this initiative.

The RBI has taken its clearest step yet towards introducing polymer banknotes. But why replace paper notes that have been in use for decades? WION Decodes

Will India switch to plastic currency? Why RBI wants to replace paper currency, and what it means for your wallet | WION Decodes

As protests over the NEET paper leak continue at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Jul 23) paid tribute to freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. In a post on X, the Indian PM praised the "fearless courage" of the dead revolutionary even as the government continues to ignore the demands of the living ones standing at Jantar Mantar.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cjp-dismisses-modi-s-paper-leak-pledge-says-bandage-after-inflicting-a-wound-won-t-fix-system-neetrotest-1784786263559">CJP dismisses Modi's paper leak pledge, says 'bandage after inflicting a wound' won't fix system</a><h2>A message to youth protest?</h2>While on the surface, Modi's post on Azad was a routine birth anniversary tribute. But politically, the timing has attracted attention. For over a month, students, activists and the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) have been protesting in Delhi over the alleged paper leak, accusing the government of destroying young people's future. The agitation has now become one of the biggest youth-led protests during the Modi government's third term.Against that backdrop, Modi's emphasis on national service, patriotism and youth may be viewed by some political observers as a message directed at the ongoing protests.<h2>What exactly did PM Modi say?</h2>"Paying homage to the brave Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. His fearless courage and unwavering patriotism occupy a proud place in the history of India’s freedom struggle. He motivated countless young Indians to devote themselves to the nation. His resolve continues to inspire generations," said Modi in his post.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plainclothes-police-missing-nametags-delhi-police-orders-officers-to-be-in-uniform-after-viral-lathi-charge-videos-spark-outrage-1784770601254">Plainclothes police, missing nametags: Delhi Police orders officers to be in uniform after viral lathi charge videos spark outrage</a><h2>Chandra Shekhar Azad and his revolution</h2>After the suspension of the non-violent movement by Mahatma Gandhi in 1922, Azad joined Ram Prasad Bismil's Hindustan Republican Association (HRA). Later, he was involved in the infamous Kakori Train Robbery of 1925, the shooting of John P. Saunders at Lahore in 1928 to avenge the killing of Lala Lajpat Rai, and finally, in the attempt to blow up the Viceroy of India's train in 1929.Notably, Chandra Shekhar Azad fought against a system that robbed Indian youth of their rights. Now, decades later, the youth of India have taken to the streets demanding fair educational opportunities, accountability and a secure future.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tribute to freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad's ‘unwavering patriotism’ is drawing political attention as it coincides with the ongoing NEET paper leak protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, where students and activists continue to demand accountability.

As protests over the NEET paper leak continue at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Jul 23) paid tribute to freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. In a post on X, the Indian PM praised the "fearless courage" of the dead revolutionary even as the government continues to ignore the demands of the living ones standing at Jantar Mantar. Also read | CJP dismisses Modi's paper leak pledge, says 'bandage after inflicting a wound' won't fix system A message to youth protest? While on the surface, Modi's post on Azad was a routine birth anniversary tribute. But politically, the timing has attracted attention. For over a month, students, activists and the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) have been protesting in Delhi over the alleged paper leak, accusing the government of destroying young people's future. The agitation has now become one of the biggest youth-led protests during the Modi government's third term. Against that backdrop, Modi's emphasis on national service, patriotism and youth may be viewed by some political observers as a message directed at the ongoing protests. What exactly did PM Modi say? "Paying homage to the brave Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. His fearless courage and unwavering patriotism occupy a proud place in the history of India’s freedom struggle. He motivated countless young Indians to devote themselves to the nation. His resolve continues to inspire generations," said Modi in his post. Also read | Plainclothes police, missing nametags: Delhi Police orders officers to be in uniform after viral lathi charge videos spark outrage Chandra Shekhar Azad and his revolution After the suspension of the non-violent movement by Mahatma Gandhi in 1922, Azad joined Ram Prasad Bismil's Hindustan Republican Association (HRA). Later, he was involved in the infamous Kakori Train Robbery of 1925, the shooting of John P. Saunders at Lahore in 1928 to avenge the killing of Lala Lajpat Rai, and finally, in the attempt to blow up the Viceroy of India's train in 1929. Notably, Chandra Shekhar Azad fought against a system that robbed Indian youth of their rights. Now, decades later, the youth of India have taken to the streets demanding fair educational opportunities, accountability and a secure future.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tribute to freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad's ‘unwavering patriotism’ is drawing political attention as it coincides with the ongoing NEET paper leak protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, where students and activists continue to demand accountability.

PM Modi invokes Chandra Shekhar Azad's 'unwavering patriotism' as NEET protests enter Day 34. Is there a hidden message?

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