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The Philippines was rocked by yet another earthquake on Wednesday (Oct 1), with at least 69 people killed in a magnitude 6.9 tremor centred near Bogo City in northern Cebu. The shallow nature of the quake, detected at a depth of around 5 to 10 kilometres, intensified the shaking felt across Central Visayas, injuring at least 150 people. A state of emergency is in place as search, rescue, and relief operations continue. Hospitals have been overwhelmed, infrastructure has suffered damage, and the power grid in parts of the Visayas region remains strained after 27 power plants tripped offline. Authorities have recorded at least 379 aftershocks following the main shock at least one of which was above magnitude 6. The Southeast Asian nation reportedly experiences an average of 60 seismic events of varying magnitudes every 24 hours. But why is the Philippines so prone to earthquakes and related damage to life and property?<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-atleast-60-dead-in-6-9-magnitude-earthquake-rescue-operations-ongoing-1759306815609/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-atleast-60-dead-in-6-9-magnitude-earthquake-rescue-operations-ongoing-1759306815609/embed</a><h2>Philippines ground shaking: A country in constant motion</h2>The Philippines is located along the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, a 40,000-kilometre horseshoe-shaped belt around the Pacific Ocean where 75 per cent of the world's earthquakes and 90 per cent of volcanoes occur. As a result, the country experiences intense seismic activity every year.Geologically, the archipelago lies within the Philippine Mobile Belt—a tectonically complex region where the Philippine Sea Plate converges with the Eurasian Plate and the Sunda Plate. Subduction zones along the Manila Trench to the west and the Philippine Trench to the east are major sources of large, deep earthquakes and tsunamis. Meanwhile, on land, a number of active faults including the Philippine Fault Zone and the Marikina Valley Fault System generate shallow but destructive earthquakes near population centres.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/philippines-quake-kills-over-50-topples-historic-church-in-cebu-in-pics-1759299073687">Philippines quake kills over 50, topples historic church in Cebu | In Pics</a><h2>Philippines and earthquakes: What’s rumbling beneath the ground?&nbsp;</h2>The internal fault systems mentioned above pose significant risks. The Philippine Fault Zone alone stretches over 1,200 kilometres and is capable of producing magnitude 7 or higher earthquakes. In 1990, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Luzon, linked to this fault system, killed nearly 2,000 people. The 1976 Moro Gulf earthquake of magnitude 8.0 triggered a tsunami that killed more than 5,000 people.&nbsp;In addition to interplate quakes caused by tectonic collisions, the Philippines also experiences intraplate earthquakes—those occurring away from tectonic boundaries—due to stress accumulation in the crust. These can occur in areas that appear geologically stable, which means no region can be considered entirely safe.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-powerful-quakes-hit-philippines-within-minutes-people-dash-out-of-homes-1759256914867">Three powerful quakes hit Philippines within minutes, people dash out of homes</a><h2>Philippine earthquakes in numbers: 60 seismic events per day</h2>According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the country experiences an average of 20 to 30 detectable earthquakes each day. During periods of heightened activity or following a major tremor, this number can exceed 60 in a 24-hour period, especially when microquakes below magnitude 2.5 are included.In total, roughly 15,000 to 20,000 earthquakes are recorded across the Philippines each year. Of these, about 100 to 200 are strong enough to be felt, while around 800 to 900 exceed magnitude 4.0. These figures vary depending on aftershock sequences, volcanic activity, and detection thresholds.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-people-buried-under-rubble-philippines-quake-death-toll-rises-to-26-over-147-injured-rescuers-search-for-survivors-1759279794615">‘People buried under rubble’: Philippines quake death toll rises to 26, over 147 injured; rescuers search for survivors</a><h2>No region is safe: How quake risk affects nearly all regions of Philippines</h2>Almost every part of the Philippine archipelago is exposed to some level of earthquake risk. While areas such as parts of Palawan are considered relatively stable, much of the country lies near active faults or subduction zones.Major urban areas, including Metro Manila, Cebu City, and Davao City, are built near major faults. This increases the potential for devastating impacts when a strong earthquake occurs. Secondary hazards such as tsunamis, landslides, liquefaction, and fires further increase the risks—especially for densely populated, low-lying, and coastal areas.

The Philippines, which was hit by yet another quake on Wednesday,  faces up to 60 seismic events of varying magnitude every day. Tectonic location, active faults and dense population drive constant earthquake risk for the Southeast Asian archepalago.

The Philippines was rocked by yet another earthquake on Wednesday (Oct 1), with at least 69 people killed in a magnitude 6.9 tremor centred near Bogo City in northern Cebu. The shallow nature of the quake, detected at a depth of around 5 to 10 kilometres, intensified the shaking felt across Central Visayas, injuring at least 150 people. A state of emergency is in place as search, rescue, and relief operations continue. Hospitals have been overwhelmed, infrastructure has suffered damage, and the power grid in parts of the Visayas region remains strained after 27 power plants tripped offline. Authorities have recorded at least 379 aftershocks following the main shock at least one of which was above magnitude 6. The Southeast Asian nation reportedly experiences an average of 60 seismic events of varying magnitudes every 24 hours. But why is the Philippines so prone to earthquakes and related damage to life and property? https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-atleast-60-dead-in-6-9-magnitude-earthquake-rescue-operations-ongoing-1759306815609/embed Philippines ground shaking: A country in constant motion The Philippines is located along the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, a 40,000-kilometre horseshoe-shaped belt around the Pacific Ocean where 75 per cent of the world's earthquakes and 90 per cent of volcanoes occur. As a result, the country experiences intense seismic activity every year. Geologically, the archipelago lies within the Philippine Mobile Belt—a tectonically complex region where the Philippine Sea Plate converges with the Eurasian Plate and the Sunda Plate. Subduction zones along the Manila Trench to the west and the Philippine Trench to the east are major sources of large, deep earthquakes and tsunamis. Meanwhile, on land, a number of active faults including the Philippine Fault Zone and the Marikina Valley Fault System generate shallow but destructive earthquakes near population centres. Also read: Philippines quake kills over 50, topples historic church in Cebu | In Pics Philippines and earthquakes: What’s rumbling beneath the ground? The internal fault systems mentioned above pose significant risks. The Philippine Fault Zone alone stretches over 1,200 kilometres and is capable of producing magnitude 7 or higher earthquakes. In 1990, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Luzon, linked to this fault system, killed nearly 2,000 people. The 1976 Moro Gulf earthquake of magnitude 8.0 triggered a tsunami that killed more than 5,000 people. In addition to interplate quakes caused by tectonic collisions, the Philippines also experiences intraplate earthquakes—those occurring away from tectonic boundaries—due to stress accumulation in the crust. These can occur in areas that appear geologically stable, which means no region can be considered entirely safe. Also read: Three powerful quakes hit Philippines within minutes, people dash out of homes Philippine earthquakes in numbers: 60 seismic events per day According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the country experiences an average of 20 to 30 detectable earthquakes each day. During periods of heightened activity or following a major tremor, this number can exceed 60 in a 24-hour period, especially when microquakes below magnitude 2.5 are included. In total, roughly 15,000 to 20,000 earthquakes are recorded across the Philippines each year. Of these, about 100 to 200 are strong enough to be felt, while around 800 to 900 exceed magnitude 4.0. These figures vary depending on aftershock sequences, volcanic activity, and detection thresholds. Also read: ‘People buried under rubble’: Philippines quake death toll rises to 26, over 147 injured; rescuers search for survivors No region is safe: How quake risk affects nearly all regions of Philippines Almost every part of the Philippine archipelago is exposed to some level of earthquake risk. While areas such as parts of Palawan are considered relatively stable, much of the country lies near active faults or subduction zones. Major urban areas, including Metro Manila, Cebu City, and Davao City, are built near major faults. This increases the potential for devastating impacts when a strong earthquake occurs. Secondary hazards such as tsunamis, landslides, liquefaction, and fires further increase the risks—especially for densely populated, low-lying, and coastal areas.

The Philippines, which was hit by yet another quake on Wednesday, &nbsp;faces up to 60 seismic events of varying magnitude every day. Tectonic location, active faults and dense population drive constant earthquake risk for the Southeast Asian archepalago.&nbsp;

Philippines earthquake: With 60 seismic events a day, why is the Asian nation prone to so much shaking?

Currently, rare earth metals are in high demand because they are used in a wide range of products from smartphones to wind turbines. These metals are a group of 17 elements, including 15 silvery-white metals called lanthanides, or lanthanoids, plus scandium and yttrium. 

Top 7 countries with the largest rare earth reserves: See where India stands

Israeli authorities have claimed on Tuesday (Oct 1) that documents recovered by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip demonstrated Hamas’s direct involvement in an international aid flotilla known as the “Samud” (or Sumud) flotilla. This flotilla, which includes dozens of boats, is reportedly sailing to challenge Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip. Among the participants is Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The claims came amid reports that the Israeli security forces boarded the flotilla.<h2>What Israel has said about Samud flotilla</h2>Israel has made detailed claims linking the Samud flotilla and its leadership to Hamas via documents found in Gaza. These claims rely heavily on documents dated from 2021 and on Israel’s designation of the PCPA as a Hamas front, even as activists involved in the flotilla deny any connection to Hamas.&nbsp;Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. claimed that the documents showed that the flotillas, including the Global Samud Flotilla, are “secretly owned” or operated by Hamas through affiliated organisations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-greta-thunberg-gaza-bound-global-sumud-flotilla-and-why-is-israel-blocking-it-1759296611800">Israeli commandos set to board and stop Greta Thunberg's Gaza-bound 50-ship aid flotilla</a><h2>Gaza aid flotilla row: What is the PCPA?</h2>Israel has pointed in particular to the involvement of a Hamas-affiliated body known as the Palestinian Conference for Palestinians Abroad (PCPA), which it accuses of managing these flotilla operations under civilian cover. PCPA was set up in 2018, and according to the Israeli government, it functions as Hamas’s representative body abroad, operating as ‘a de facto network of embassies.’ Israel designated the PCPA as a terrorist organisation in 2021, claiming it serves as a front for Hamas’s foreign activities.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-gaza-peace-plan-ambitious-points-critics-warn-about-shaky-foundations-1759228520072/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-gaza-peace-plan-ambitious-points-critics-warn-about-shaky-foundations-1759228520072/embed</a>The Israeli foreign ministry said the PCPA is responsible for mobilising anti-Israel actions on behalf of Hamas, including violent protests, marches, and flotillas intended to provoke confrontation with Israel. The ministry claimed the organisation presents itself as civilian while coordinating operations on Hamas’s behalf.<h2>What is the Samud flotilla?</h2>The Samud (or Sumud) flotilla is one of several maritime missions aiming to bring aid to Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. These efforts challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza.On September 25, the flotilla reportedly faced a drone attack while moored near the small Greek island of Koufonisi, south of Crete. Activists aboard blamed Israel for the explosions heard around their vessels late on 24 September. Greece has stated it would ensure safe passage of the flotilla within its territorial waters.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-the-peacemaker-10-takeaways-from-his-gaza-peace-plan-that-has-netanyahu-s-backing-1759195574203">Trump the ‘peacemaker’? 10 takeaways from his Gaza peace plan that has Netanyahu's backing</a>&nbsp;The flotilla includes international activists including Thunberg. The flotilla’s stated aim is to deliver humanitarian aid and draw attention to the situation in Gaza.<h2>What documents does Israel claim to have found, linking Hamas to aid flotilla?</h2>Two specific documents found in Gaza support the claim of Hamas’s involvement in the Samud flotilla, claimed Israel.First is a letter from 2021 allegedly signed by Ismail Haniyeh, then-head of Hamas’s Political Bureau. The letter reportedly called for unity between Hamas and the PCPA. Israeli authorities claimed this showed Hamas’s explicit endorsement of the PCPA’s activities, including its involvement in flotilla operations. Haniyeh was killed in an Israeli operation in Iran in 2024.There is also a list naming dozens of individuals described as PCPA operatives, as per Israel, which said &nbsp;it included known Hamas members.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-situation-beyond-catastrophic-un-reveals-86-of-aid-does-not-reach-starving-palestinians-1754504323632">Gaza situation ‘beyond catastrophic’: UN reveals 86% of aid does not reach starving Palestinians</a>&nbsp;Zaher Birawi, identified as the head of the PCPA’s Hamas operations in the UK and allegedly a long-time organiser of flotillas to Gaza, is among them. So is Saif Abu Kashk, described by Israel as a PCPA operative based in Spain. Israel also claimed that Kashk is the CEO of a company called Cyber Neptune, based in Spain, which allegedly owns many of the ships in the Samud flotilla. This document was reportedly recovered from a Hamas outpost in Gaza and is being cited as further evidence of direct operational links between Hamas and the flotilla organisers.The Israeli claims have not been independently verifiedActivists associated with the flotilla, including those involved in the Free Gaza Movement and similar groups, have historically denied ties to Hamas and assert that their missions are peaceful and humanitarian in nature.&nbsp;

Israel claims Hamas is linked to the Samud flotilla, citing documents found in Gaza. The flotilla, carrying activists like Greta Thunberg, has denied any ties to the Palestinian militant group.

Israeli authorities have claimed on Tuesday (Oct 1) that documents recovered by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip demonstrated Hamas’s direct involvement in an international aid flotilla known as the “Samud” (or Sumud) flotilla. This flotilla, which includes dozens of boats, is reportedly sailing to challenge Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip. Among the participants is Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The claims came amid reports that the Israeli security forces boarded the flotilla. What Israel has said about Samud flotilla Israel has made detailed claims linking the Samud flotilla and its leadership to Hamas via documents found in Gaza. These claims rely heavily on documents dated from 2021 and on Israel’s designation of the PCPA as a Hamas front, even as activists involved in the flotilla deny any connection to Hamas. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. claimed that the documents showed that the flotillas, including the Global Samud Flotilla, are “secretly owned” or operated by Hamas through affiliated organisations. Also read: Israeli commandos set to board and stop Greta Thunberg's Gaza-bound 50-ship aid flotilla Gaza aid flotilla row: What is the PCPA? Israel has pointed in particular to the involvement of a Hamas-affiliated body known as the Palestinian Conference for Palestinians Abroad (PCPA), which it accuses of managing these flotilla operations under civilian cover. PCPA was set up in 2018, and according to the Israeli government, it functions as Hamas’s representative body abroad, operating as ‘a de facto network of embassies.’ Israel designated the PCPA as a terrorist organisation in 2021, claiming it serves as a front for Hamas’s foreign activities. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-gaza-peace-plan-ambitious-points-critics-warn-about-shaky-foundations-1759228520072/embed The Israeli foreign ministry said the PCPA is responsible for mobilising anti-Israel actions on behalf of Hamas, including violent protests, marches, and flotillas intended to provoke confrontation with Israel. The ministry claimed the organisation presents itself as civilian while coordinating operations on Hamas’s behalf. What is the Samud flotilla? The Samud (or Sumud) flotilla is one of several maritime missions aiming to bring aid to Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. These efforts challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. On September 25, the flotilla reportedly faced a drone attack while moored near the small Greek island of Koufonisi, south of Crete. Activists aboard blamed Israel for the explosions heard around their vessels late on 24 September. Greece has stated it would ensure safe passage of the flotilla within its territorial waters. Also read: Trump the ‘peacemaker’? 10 takeaways from his Gaza peace plan that has Netanyahu's backing The flotilla includes international activists including Thunberg. The flotilla’s stated aim is to deliver humanitarian aid and draw attention to the situation in Gaza. What documents does Israel claim to have found, linking Hamas to aid flotilla? Two specific documents found in Gaza support the claim of Hamas’s involvement in the Samud flotilla, claimed Israel. First is a letter from 2021 allegedly signed by Ismail Haniyeh, then-head of Hamas’s Political Bureau. The letter reportedly called for unity between Hamas and the PCPA. Israeli authorities claimed this showed Hamas’s explicit endorsement of the PCPA’s activities, including its involvement in flotilla operations. Haniyeh was killed in an Israeli operation in Iran in 2024. There is also a list naming dozens of individuals described as PCPA operatives, as per Israel, which said it included known Hamas members. Also read: Gaza situation ‘beyond catastrophic’: UN reveals 86% of aid does not reach starving Palestinians Zaher Birawi, identified as the head of the PCPA’s Hamas operations in the UK and allegedly a long-time organiser of flotillas to Gaza, is among them. So is Saif Abu Kashk, described by Israel as a PCPA operative based in Spain. Israel also claimed that Kashk is the CEO of a company called Cyber Neptune, based in Spain, which allegedly owns many of the ships in the Samud flotilla. This document was reportedly recovered from a Hamas outpost in Gaza and is being cited as further evidence of direct operational links between Hamas and the flotilla organisers. The Israeli claims have not been independently verified Activists associated with the flotilla, including those involved in the Free Gaza Movement and similar groups, have historically denied ties to Hamas and assert that their missions are peaceful and humanitarian in nature.

Israel claims Hamas is linked to the Samud flotilla, citing documents found in Gaza. The flotilla, carrying activists like Greta Thunberg, has denied any ties to the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;

Israel claims documents from Gaza show Hamas's ‘direct involvement’ in aid flotilla with Greta Thunberg on board

A teacher in Texas fed live kittens to the class snake as horrified students watched. Parents of one of the students filed a complaint with The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), telling them how she brought four sick kittens to the class and fed one of them to the snake in front of the kids. The teacher is also accused of further stressing out the kids by telling them, "You can’t save them all". This happened after a student requested to take the remaining cats home as the scene left the child scarred. All the kittens later died. She also reportedly told the students that she feeds kittens to snakes at her home. PETA reached out to the school and told the authorities about the teacher. She has apologised for her actions. The group also asked the school to ban the use of live animals in schools. PETA Vice President Rachelle Owen said that according to the complaint filed by the parents of a student, "an educator who should be teaching her students empathy and respect for others is instead tearing newborn kittens from their mother and subjecting them to a painful, terrifying death in front of shocked and traumatised teenagers."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hotels-are-getting-people-jailed-for-stealing-towels-slapping-fines-of-rs-15-lakh-1759223870718">Hotels are getting people jailed for stealing towels, slapping fines of Rs 15 lakh</a>&nbsp;<h2>Police say the teacher is an ‘animal lover’</h2>He added that a person who displays such "cruel and disturbing behaviour shouldn’t be around children or animals." Alvord Superintendent Randy Brown confirmed that a teacher fed a live kitten to a snake. The incident was investigated by the Alvord ISD Police Department and the Wise County Sheriff's Office Animal Control following the complaint. Brown stated that no charges were filed, and the district administration will determine the next steps. He added that the teacher, "an experienced educator and animal lover, has apologised to the students for her actions and voluntarily removed all snakes from her classroom."&nbsp;Meanwhile, the parent whose child took the kittens home told Fort Worth Star-Telegram that she learned about the troubling incident on September 3 when her daughter texted her if she could take the kittens home. When asked about the reason, she told them they watched "a snake eat the kitten". Following the complaint, the teacher smirked at her class and said, "Thanks to whoever turned me in", the parent said.

The troubling incident happened in Alvord, Texas, where a high school teacher brought four sick kittens to the classroom and fed one of them to a snake. A student took the rest of them home where they all later died.

A teacher in Texas fed live kittens to the class snake as horrified students watched. Parents of one of the students filed a complaint with The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), telling them how she brought four sick kittens to the class and fed one of them to the snake in front of the kids. The teacher is also accused of further stressing out the kids by telling them, "You can’t save them all". This happened after a student requested to take the remaining cats home as the scene left the child scarred. All the kittens later died. She also reportedly told the students that she feeds kittens to snakes at her home. PETA reached out to the school and told the authorities about the teacher. She has apologised for her actions. The group also asked the school to ban the use of live animals in schools. PETA Vice President Rachelle Owen said that according to the complaint filed by the parents of a student, "an educator who should be teaching her students empathy and respect for others is instead tearing newborn kittens from their mother and subjecting them to a painful, terrifying death in front of shocked and traumatised teenagers." Also Read: Hotels are getting people jailed for stealing towels, slapping fines of Rs 15 lakh Police say the teacher is an ‘animal lover’ He added that a person who displays such "cruel and disturbing behaviour shouldn’t be around children or animals." Alvord Superintendent Randy Brown confirmed that a teacher fed a live kitten to a snake. The incident was investigated by the Alvord ISD Police Department and the Wise County Sheriff's Office Animal Control following the complaint. Brown stated that no charges were filed, and the district administration will determine the next steps. He added that the teacher, "an experienced educator and animal lover, has apologised to the students for her actions and voluntarily removed all snakes from her classroom." Meanwhile, the parent whose child took the kittens home told Fort Worth Star-Telegram that she learned about the troubling incident on September 3 when her daughter texted her if she could take the kittens home. When asked about the reason, she told them they watched "a snake eat the kitten". Following the complaint, the teacher smirked at her class and said, "Thanks to whoever turned me in", the parent said.

The troubling incident happened in Alvord, Texas, where a high school teacher brought four sick kittens to the classroom and fed one of them to a snake. A student took the rest of them home where they all later died.

Teacher feeds sick kitten to snake in classroom as horrified students watch

US President Donald Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed some 800 senior military generals at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia on Tuesday (Sep 30), which was shocking to many, and encouraging for others, depending on their political leanings. The unprecedented gathering was held after calling officers from global posts at short notice at a cost of thousands of dollars in travel expenses. Declaring war on ‘fat generals’, Hegseth slammed "woke" policies, diversity initiatives, and announced new directives like bi-annual fitness tests, tighter grooming standards (no beards), and a return to "male-level" physical requirements for combat roles. Both Trump and Hegseth urged dissenters to resign. Trump, who spoke for 70 minutes after Hegseth, said the US is in a war from within, and asked the military to use cities like Chicago and Portland as the military's “training grounds”, while praising his own deployment orders for the National Guard in several cities. The audience, which had mostly battle-hardened generals, was largely silent, with muted applause, as it adhered to military nonpartisanship. But reactions from mainly US veterans and military observers were far from muted. The opinions were polarised. Some conservative veterans praised the return to "warfighting ethos", while critics, mostly Democrats or moderate politicians—condemned the lectures as politicisation, unconstitutional, and erosive to morale. Here is a breakdown.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-donald-trump-to-attend-rare-military-gathering-at-quantico-base-in-virginia-1759166437921/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-donald-trump-to-attend-rare-military-gathering-at-quantico-base-in-virginia-1759166437921/embed</a><h2>Who praised Trump and Hegseth?</h2>Buzz Patterson, a US Air Force veteran and bestselling author, praised the duo for reclaiming the military from radical causes and erosion from diversity initiatives. He said it’s time for America to reclaim its military, whose core role is to win wars.Chip Roy, a Congressman, supported Hegseth's warfighting focus, saying that the days of ‘woke social engineering’ of the Defence Department are over, adding, "If it’s good enough for the Founding Fathers, it’s good enough for me."Ruben Rod, an Air Force veteran, shared on social media "PREPARE FOR WAR... PRESIDENT TRUMP &amp; GENERAL PATTON," framing Hegseth as George S Patton, the legendary US general during World War II.Many pro-Trump military veterans mostly praised the speeches for ending politically correct leadership and focusing on war-readiness.<h2>How the military veterans turned politicians criticised Trump and Hegseth</h2>While some anonymous active-duty officers and retired generals did criticise, what’s publicly known are reactions from veteran-turned-politicians. Several of them slammed the perceived politicisation of the military and warned against deploying the troops domestically.Representative Pat Ryan, an Iraq War veteran and member of the House Armed Services Committee, said that deploying troops against US citizens in American cities isn’t just unprecedented and unconstitutional but also 'un-American'.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-two-n-words-you-can-t-use-trump-lectures-not-to-throw-around-nuclear-word-but-warns-russia-of-us-submarines-1759240065127">‘Two N-words you can’t use’: Trump lectures not to ‘throw around’ nuclear word but warns Russia of US submarines</a>&nbsp;Democrat Senator Ruben Gallego, an Iraq War Marine veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, asked, “We flew every general from across the world for this?” Slamming the fitness mandates and threats to resign or conform, he said, "This is not leadership; it's a stunt."Democrat Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Iran War veteran who lost her legs in combat, said she was worried about what Hegseth's remarks would mean for the future of the US military. The Senate Armed Services member said the domestic focus "erodes trust and readiness," while demanding Pentagon cost details for the events.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-you-don-t-like-what-i-m-saying-leave-the-room-trump-tells-military-officers-to-quit-if-they-dislike-his-address-says-there-goes-your-rank-1759241574525">‘If you don’t like what I’m saying, leave the room’: Trump tells military officers to quit if they dislike his address, says 'there goes your rank'</a>&nbsp;Mark Hertling, former CENTCOM commander, while speaking to CNN, called the speeches "shocking and offensive", adding "this is not how you lead professionals... It's an insult to the oath we swore to the Constitution, not a person."Retired Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré, speaking to Politico, said, "Could have been an email", comparing the speeches more akin to ‘a campaign rally than command guidance.’A report in The Washington Post, citing active-duty sources, said that the reactions were mixed, with some 'furious or exasperated'. The report noted the general silence from active-duty officers is from pressure to avoid reacting to overtly political comments.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-a-bad-look-hegseth-slams-fat-generals-vows-to-end-racial-gender-diversity-in-military-1759244549847">‘It’s a bad look’: Hegseth shames ‘fat generals’, vows to end racial, gender diversity in US military</a>&nbsp;Paul Eaton, a retired Iraq US Army trainer, was quoted in Reuters as saying that Hegseth's ultimatum to 'conform or resign' is "profoundly dangerous" and signals that “partisan loyalty matters more than service to the Constitution."

Trump and Defence Secretary Hegseth’s Quantico speeches were praised by conservatives and criticised by some veterans and politicians for politicising the military, damaging morale and constitutional principles amid calls to deploy troops domestically. Here is a breakdown



US President Donald Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed some 800 senior military generals at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia on Tuesday (Sep 30), which was shocking to many, and encouraging for others, depending on their political leanings. The unprecedented gathering was held after calling officers from global posts at short notice at a cost of thousands of dollars in travel expenses. Declaring war on ‘fat generals’, Hegseth slammed "woke" policies, diversity initiatives, and announced new directives like bi-annual fitness tests, tighter grooming standards (no beards), and a return to "male-level" physical requirements for combat roles. Both Trump and Hegseth urged dissenters to resign. Trump, who spoke for 70 minutes after Hegseth, said the US is in a war from within, and asked the military to use cities like Chicago and Portland as the military's “training grounds”, while praising his own deployment orders for the National Guard in several cities. The audience, which had mostly battle-hardened generals, was largely silent, with muted applause, as it adhered to military nonpartisanship. But reactions from mainly US veterans and military observers were far from muted. The opinions were polarised. Some conservative veterans praised the return to "warfighting ethos", while critics, mostly Democrats or moderate politicians—condemned the lectures as politicisation, unconstitutional, and erosive to morale. Here is a breakdown. https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-donald-trump-to-attend-rare-military-gathering-at-quantico-base-in-virginia-1759166437921/embed Who praised Trump and Hegseth? Buzz Patterson, a US Air Force veteran and bestselling author, praised the duo for reclaiming the military from radical causes and erosion from diversity initiatives. He said it’s time for America to reclaim its military, whose core role is to win wars. Chip Roy, a Congressman, supported Hegseth's warfighting focus, saying that the days of ‘woke social engineering’ of the Defence Department are over, adding, "If it’s good enough for the Founding Fathers, it’s good enough for me." Ruben Rod, an Air Force veteran, shared on social media "PREPARE FOR WAR... PRESIDENT TRUMP & GENERAL PATTON," framing Hegseth as George S Patton, the legendary US general during World War II. Many pro-Trump military veterans mostly praised the speeches for ending politically correct leadership and focusing on war-readiness. How the military veterans turned politicians criticised Trump and Hegseth While some anonymous active-duty officers and retired generals did criticise, what’s publicly known are reactions from veteran-turned-politicians. Several of them slammed the perceived politicisation of the military and warned against deploying the troops domestically. Representative Pat Ryan, an Iraq War veteran and member of the House Armed Services Committee, said that deploying troops against US citizens in American cities isn’t just unprecedented and unconstitutional but also 'un-American'. Also read: ‘Two N-words you can’t use’: Trump lectures not to ‘throw around’ nuclear word but warns Russia of US submarines Democrat Senator Ruben Gallego, an Iraq War Marine veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, asked, “We flew every general from across the world for this?” Slamming the fitness mandates and threats to resign or conform, he said, "This is not leadership; it's a stunt." Democrat Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Iran War veteran who lost her legs in combat, said she was worried about what Hegseth's remarks would mean for the future of the US military. The Senate Armed Services member said the domestic focus "erodes trust and readiness," while demanding Pentagon cost details for the events. Also read: ‘If you don’t like what I’m saying, leave the room’: Trump tells military officers to quit if they dislike his address, says 'there goes your rank' Mark Hertling, former CENTCOM commander, while speaking to CNN, called the speeches "shocking and offensive", adding "this is not how you lead professionals... It's an insult to the oath we swore to the Constitution, not a person." Retired Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré, speaking to Politico, said, "Could have been an email", comparing the speeches more akin to ‘a campaign rally than command guidance.’ A report in The Washington Post, citing active-duty sources, said that the reactions were mixed, with some 'furious or exasperated'. The report noted the general silence from active-duty officers is from pressure to avoid reacting to overtly political comments. Also read: ‘It’s a bad look’: Hegseth shames ‘fat generals’, vows to end racial, gender diversity in US military Paul Eaton, a retired Iraq US Army trainer, was quoted in Reuters as saying that Hegseth's ultimatum to 'conform or resign' is "profoundly dangerous" and signals that “partisan loyalty matters more than service to the Constitution."

Trump and Defence Secretary Hegseth’s Quantico speeches were praised by conservatives and criticised by some veterans and politicians for politicising the military, damaging morale and constitutional principles amid calls to deploy troops domestically. Here is a breakdown&nbsp;

Did Trump cross a line with Quantico hectoring? From 'unconstitutional', 'moral erosion' to ‘great move’, how veterans reacted

A 6.9-magnitude quake in the central Philippines has killed over 50 and injured 150+, toppling homes, schools, and the historic Santa Rosa de Lima church in Cebu. Rescuers race to find survivors as hundreds of aftershocks rattle the region and hospitals overflow.

Philippines quake kills over 50, topples historic church in Cebu | In Pics

A two-year-old girl has been chosen as the new living goddess of Nepal. She was carried by her family members from their home in a Kathmandu alley to a temple palace on Tuesday, coinciding with the longest and most significant Hindu festival of Nepal. The occasion fell on the eighth day of the 'Dashan' festival, the 15-day festival symbolising the triumph of good over evil.&nbsp;Over this day, offices and schools were shut as people celebrated with their families. Before entering the temple palace, family, friends, and devotees paraded the new Kumari through the streets of Kathmandu. Now, the temple will be a new home for Kumari for several years, according to a report in Associated Press.&nbsp;Devotees queued to bow at her feet—a revered Hindu gesture, while presenting flowers and money. On Thursday, the living goddess is set to bless devotees, including Nepal’s president. “She was just my daughter yesterday, but today she is a goddess,” said her father, Ananta Shakya.&nbsp;He also said that there were already signs she would be the goddess prior to her birth. “My wife during pregnancy dreamed that she was a goddess and we knew she was going to be someone very special,” he added.<h3>Who is the 2-year-old girl new living goddess of Nepal?</h3>A 2-year-and-8-month-old girl named Aryatara Shakya, has been selected as the new Kumari or “virgin goddess." She replaces Trishna Shakya, who has been Kumari since 2017 and stepped down upon reaching puberty.&nbsp;Any new Kumaris in Nepal are chosen from the Shakya clans of the Newar community, which is indigenous to the Kathmandu valley. It is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists in the predominantly Hindu nation.&nbsp;The girls are usually picked between the ages of 2 and 4 and are required to have unblemished skin, hair, eyes and teeth. They must possess the ability not to be afraid of the dark.&nbsp;Meanwhile, at the Indra Jatra festival earlier this month, the outgoing Kumari was paraded on a chariot drawn by devotees. Traditionally, the Kumari dresses in red, wears her hair in topknots, and has a painted “third eye” on her forehead.&nbsp;Indra Jatra, which spans a week, marks the start of a festive season in Nepal, followed by Dashain, the country’s biggest celebration, and Tihar, or Diwali, the festival of lights in October.&nbsp;

Before entering the temple palace, family, friends, and devotees paraded the new Kumari through the streets of Kathmandu, Nepal. Now, the temple will be the new home for Kumari for several years.

A two-year-old girl has been chosen as the new living goddess of Nepal. She was carried by her family members from their home in a Kathmandu alley to a temple palace on Tuesday, coinciding with the longest and most significant Hindu festival of Nepal. The occasion fell on the eighth day of the 'Dashan' festival, the 15-day festival symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Over this day, offices and schools were shut as people celebrated with their families. Before entering the temple palace, family, friends, and devotees paraded the new Kumari through the streets of Kathmandu. Now, the temple will be a new home for Kumari for several years, according to a report in Associated Press. Devotees queued to bow at her feet—a revered Hindu gesture, while presenting flowers and money. On Thursday, the living goddess is set to bless devotees, including Nepal’s president. “She was just my daughter yesterday, but today she is a goddess,” said her father, Ananta Shakya. He also said that there were already signs she would be the goddess prior to her birth. “My wife during pregnancy dreamed that she was a goddess and we knew she was going to be someone very special,” he added. Who is the 2-year-old girl new living goddess of Nepal? A 2-year-and-8-month-old girl named Aryatara Shakya, has been selected as the new Kumari or “virgin goddess." She replaces Trishna Shakya, who has been Kumari since 2017 and stepped down upon reaching puberty. Any new Kumaris in Nepal are chosen from the Shakya clans of the Newar community, which is indigenous to the Kathmandu valley. It is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists in the predominantly Hindu nation. The girls are usually picked between the ages of 2 and 4 and are required to have unblemished skin, hair, eyes and teeth. They must possess the ability not to be afraid of the dark. Meanwhile, at the Indra Jatra festival earlier this month, the outgoing Kumari was paraded on a chariot drawn by devotees. Traditionally, the Kumari dresses in red, wears her hair in topknots, and has a painted “third eye” on her forehead. Indra Jatra, which spans a week, marks the start of a festive season in Nepal, followed by Dashain, the country’s biggest celebration, and Tihar, or Diwali, the festival of lights in October.

Before entering the temple palace, family, friends, and devotees paraded the new Kumari through the streets of Kathmandu, Nepal. Now, the temple will be the new home for Kumari for several years.

Who is the new living goddess of Nepal? Two-year-old Aryatara Shakya chosen during 'Dashain' festival

A disease name that was changed because of being seen as racist is being used once again in the United States. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is back to calling "mpox" "monkeypox" &nbsp;under the Trump administration. The revelation was made in a report by NPR. The CDC went back to using "monkeypox" in September. After the media learned about the reversal, they asked the Department of Health and Human Services about it. The body inaccurately stated, "Monkeypox is the name of the viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus." The disease is caused by Orthopoxvirus monkeypox, which falls in the same family as smallpox and cowpox. It started spreading rapidly in 2022 and 2024, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare international public health emergencies. But the name "monkeypox" was slammed as being racist, which led to it being changed to "mpox." The virus still has no clear origins.&nbsp;It was discovered in captive Asian monkeys sent to Denmark from Singapore in 1958. This led to the assumption that the monkeys were the natural hosts for the virus. The first human cases were identified in the 1970s in West and Central Africa. Scientists also noted that the virus had the potential to infect a broad range of animals. Current evidence suggests that African rodents, particularly squirrels, are the carriers of the virus. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/porn-blocked-multi-billion-dollar-us-adult-entertainment-industry-faces-moment-of-reckoning-as-more-states-introduce-age-verification-1759222680425">Porn blocked: Multi-billion dollar US adult entertainment industry faces moment of reckoning as more states introduce age verification</a>&nbsp;The name "monkeypox" assumed racist proportions because "monkey" has long been used as a slur for Black people. Besides, the disease was found to be spreading through sexual intercourse between men, adding to the stigma which was once all around when the HIV/AIDS pandemic started. WHO started receiving reports of "racist and stigmatising language online, in other settings, and in some communities." This led the body to change the name to mpox in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Who names viruses?</h2>While the WHO has the authority to change the names of diseases, it cannot rename viruses. "Assigning names to new and, very exceptionally, to existing diseases is the responsibility of WHO under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the WHO Family of International Health Related Classifications through a consultative process which includes WHO Member States," WHO said at the time. The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has the sole authority to change the name of viruses, which it hasn't done in the case of mpox. &nbsp;

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is once again calling “mpox” “monkeypox”, a name that was dropped because of its racist nature. NPR first reported the change. When asked about it, the Health and Human Services clearly used the name “monkeypox”. 

A disease name that was changed because of being seen as racist is being used once again in the United States. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is back to calling "mpox" "monkeypox" under the Trump administration. The revelation was made in a report by NPR. The CDC went back to using "monkeypox" in September. After the media learned about the reversal, they asked the Department of Health and Human Services about it. The body inaccurately stated, "Monkeypox is the name of the viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus." The disease is caused by Orthopoxvirus monkeypox, which falls in the same family as smallpox and cowpox. It started spreading rapidly in 2022 and 2024, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare international public health emergencies. But the name "monkeypox" was slammed as being racist, which led to it being changed to "mpox." The virus still has no clear origins. It was discovered in captive Asian monkeys sent to Denmark from Singapore in 1958. This led to the assumption that the monkeys were the natural hosts for the virus. The first human cases were identified in the 1970s in West and Central Africa. Scientists also noted that the virus had the potential to infect a broad range of animals. Current evidence suggests that African rodents, particularly squirrels, are the carriers of the virus. Also Read: Porn blocked: Multi-billion dollar US adult entertainment industry faces moment of reckoning as more states introduce age verification The name "monkeypox" assumed racist proportions because "monkey" has long been used as a slur for Black people. Besides, the disease was found to be spreading through sexual intercourse between men, adding to the stigma which was once all around when the HIV/AIDS pandemic started. WHO started receiving reports of "racist and stigmatising language online, in other settings, and in some communities." This led the body to change the name to mpox in 2022. Who names viruses? While the WHO has the authority to change the names of diseases, it cannot rename viruses. "Assigning names to new and, very exceptionally, to existing diseases is the responsibility of WHO under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the WHO Family of International Health Related Classifications through a consultative process which includes WHO Member States," WHO said at the time. The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has the sole authority to change the name of viruses, which it hasn't done in the case of mpox.

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is once again calling “mpox” “monkeypox”, a name that was dropped because of its racist nature. NPR first reported the change. When asked about it, the Health and Human Services clearly used the name “monkeypox”.&nbsp;

A 'racist' disease name is back under Trump administration after being abolished three years ago

Around 91 young students are believed to be still trapped under the ruins of a collapsed school on Indonesia's main island of Java, National Disaster and Mitigation Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari said on Tuesday (Sep 30). In a statement released late at night, Muhari revealed that the figure was based on student attendance data. Earlier in the day, officials said that at least three people had been killed, and 99 others were hospitalised, some of them with critical injuries. They further warned that the death toll could increase with dozens still trapped under the rubble.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-school-collapse-at-least-one-dead-dozens-injured-65-students-feared-trapped-under-rubble-1759202686916">Indonesia school collapse: At least one dead, dozens injured; 65 students feared trapped under rubble</a><h2>Over 90 students trapped</h2>According to National Disaster and Mitigation Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari, "Based on student attendance data, 91 people are suspected to be buried under building materials."&nbsp;<h2>How the collapse happened</h2>Police say the students were performing afternoon prayers at the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, in a building undergoing unauthorised expansion when it suddenly collapsed. &nbsp;While the female students praying in another section of the building reportedly escaped unharmed, the victims of the tragedy are mostly boys aged 12 to 17, studying in grades seven to eleven. Residents, teachers, and administrators helped evacuate injured students, many of whom suffered head injuries and broken bones.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-people-buried-under-rubble-philippines-quake-death-toll-rises-to-26-over-147-injured-rescuers-search-for-survivors-1759279794615">‘People buried under rubble’: Philippines quake death toll rises to 26, over 147 injured; rescuers search for survivors</a>Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse. Provincial police spokesperson Jules Abraham Abast said the old prayer hall was originally two stories, but two additional floors were being added without a permit, likely contributing to the disaster.Heavy concrete slabs and unstable parts of the building have hindered the search, with rescuers avoiding heavy machinery due to fears it could trigger further collapses. Several hundred personnel, equipped with breathing apparatus, extrication tools, and medical support, are involved in the ongoing rescue operation, according to an AP report.

91 students are still feared trapped under the rubble after a school building collapsed in East Java, Indonesia. At least three students have died and 99 were injured in the tragedy. Rescue teams are working amid fears the death toll could rise. 

Around 91 young students are believed to be still trapped under the ruins of a collapsed school on Indonesia's main island of Java, National Disaster and Mitigation Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari said on Tuesday (Sep 30). In a statement released late at night, Muhari revealed that the figure was based on student attendance data. Earlier in the day, officials said that at least three people had been killed, and 99 others were hospitalised, some of them with critical injuries. They further warned that the death toll could increase with dozens still trapped under the rubble. Also read | Indonesia school collapse: At least one dead, dozens injured; 65 students feared trapped under rubble Over 90 students trapped According to National Disaster and Mitigation Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari, "Based on student attendance data, 91 people are suspected to be buried under building materials." How the collapse happened Police say the students were performing afternoon prayers at the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, in a building undergoing unauthorised expansion when it suddenly collapsed. While the female students praying in another section of the building reportedly escaped unharmed, the victims of the tragedy are mostly boys aged 12 to 17, studying in grades seven to eleven. Residents, teachers, and administrators helped evacuate injured students, many of whom suffered head injuries and broken bones. Also read | ‘People buried under rubble’: Philippines quake death toll rises to 26, over 147 injured; rescuers search for survivors Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse. Provincial police spokesperson Jules Abraham Abast said the old prayer hall was originally two stories, but two additional floors were being added without a permit, likely contributing to the disaster. Heavy concrete slabs and unstable parts of the building have hindered the search, with rescuers avoiding heavy machinery due to fears it could trigger further collapses. Several hundred personnel, equipped with breathing apparatus, extrication tools, and medical support, are involved in the ongoing rescue operation, according to an AP report.

91 students are still feared trapped under the rubble after a school building collapsed in East Java, Indonesia. At least three students have died and 99 were injured in the tragedy. Rescue teams are working amid fears the death toll could rise.&nbsp;

Indonesia school collapse: 91 students still trapped under rubble

The United States on Wednesday (Oct 1) went under its first government shutdown in nearly seven years, with the funding expiring at midnight (Sep 30-Oct 1) after a dramatic collapse of negotiations in Congress. Despite last-ditch talks, the Senate failed to advance a temporary funding bill, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal workers bracing for furloughs and key services at risk of disruption. President Donald Trump, who earlier predicted, “we’ll probably have a shutdown,” blamed Democrats for the impasse, accusing them of bowing to “far-left maniacs” and warning he would target progressive programs if the stoppage dragged on. Meanwhile, Democrats pointed fingers at Republicans, saying "they are plunging Americans into a shutdown".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hours-away-from-first-government-shutdown-in-6-years-as-talks-collapse-republicans-and-democrats-trade-blame-1759282651686">US hours away from first government shutdown in 6 years as talks collapse; Republicans and Democrats trade blame</a><h2>Shutdown proceedings begin</h2>The US government began shutting down after midnight Wednesday as lawmakers and President Donald Trump failed to break a budget impasse during acrimonious talks that hinged on Democratic demands for health care funding.This is the first shutdown since the longest in history -- lasting 35 days -- almost seven years ago.<h2>What happens now?</h2>The shutdown means that work has stopped at multiple federal departments and agencies, which will affect hundreds of thousands of government workers.<h3>Federal workers furloughed</h3>Hundreds of thousands of nonessential staff may be sent home without pay.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-lot-of-good-can-come-from-shutdowns-trump-threatens-democrats-with-layoffs-as-us-shutdown-looms-1759284688521">'Lot of good can come from shutdowns': Trump threatens Democrats with layoffs</a><h3>Delayed services</h3>Agencies like national parks, visa processing, and some social programs could see disruptions.<h3>Economic ripple</h3>Stock markets could react, government contracts may stall, and benefits like food stamps may face delays.<h3>Resolution timeline</h3>The shutdown will last until the US Congress passes a funding bill. Historically, the longest US shutdown stretched 35 days in 2018-19, and happened under Trump.&nbsp;

The US entered its first government shutdown in nearly seven years after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers face furloughs, key services are at risk, and both parties are trading blame. Developing story.

The United States on Wednesday (Oct 1) went under its first government shutdown in nearly seven years, with the funding expiring at midnight (Sep 30-Oct 1) after a dramatic collapse of negotiations in Congress. Despite last-ditch talks, the Senate failed to advance a temporary funding bill, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal workers bracing for furloughs and key services at risk of disruption. President Donald Trump, who earlier predicted, “we’ll probably have a shutdown,” blamed Democrats for the impasse, accusing them of bowing to “far-left maniacs” and warning he would target progressive programs if the stoppage dragged on. Meanwhile, Democrats pointed fingers at Republicans, saying "they are plunging Americans into a shutdown". Also read | US hours away from first government shutdown in 6 years as talks collapse; Republicans and Democrats trade blame Shutdown proceedings begin The US government began shutting down after midnight Wednesday as lawmakers and President Donald Trump failed to break a budget impasse during acrimonious talks that hinged on Democratic demands for health care funding. This is the first shutdown since the longest in history -- lasting 35 days -- almost seven years ago. What happens now? The shutdown means that work has stopped at multiple federal departments and agencies, which will affect hundreds of thousands of government workers. Federal workers furloughed Hundreds of thousands of nonessential staff may be sent home without pay. Also read | 'Lot of good can come from shutdowns': Trump threatens Democrats with layoffs Delayed services Agencies like national parks, visa processing, and some social programs could see disruptions. Economic ripple Stock markets could react, government contracts may stall, and benefits like food stamps may face delays. Resolution timeline The shutdown will last until the US Congress passes a funding bill. Historically, the longest US shutdown stretched 35 days in 2018-19, and happened under Trump.

The US entered its first government shutdown in nearly seven years after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers face furloughs, key services are at risk, and both parties are trading blame. Developing story.

US government shuts down for first time in nearly 7 years — what happens next?

All is well in Andy Byron's married life, it seems, after he was caught holding his HR chief in his arms at a Coldplay concert. There were reports that his wife, Megan Kerrigan, had dropped her last name from her social media handles. However, the couple has shut down all rumours of separation after being seen vacationing in Maine last weekend. Both of them also had their wedding rings on, the Daily Mail reported. The publication took exclusive pictures of the couple wearing their wedding bands as they left a lavish Kennebunk mansion to visit the beach. Notably, this is the house Megan has reportedly been living in ever since Byron was seen cheating on his wife. The couple was wearing comfortable lounge wear as they strolled through the neighbourhood.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/astronomer-cheating-scandal-kristin-cabot-caught-on-coldplay-kiss-cam-husband-statement-1757387879679">Husband of woman caught on Coldplay kiss cam with her boss speaks up, reveals they were...</a>&nbsp;The former Astronomer CEO and Cabot were happily enjoying the concert on July 16 when the jumbotron at Gillette Stadium showed them in a cosy pose. Both of them were shocked when the kiss cam panned towards them. Byron instantly turned away, while Cabot flung her hands to her face and ducked. Chris Martin said, "Look at these two", before instantly being shocked by their reaction, saying, "Oh, what?" "Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy. Holy sh-t. I hope we didn’t do something bad." &nbsp;The video went viral, and the duo made news for weeks. Eagle-eyed netizens started scouring through Byron's personal life online and noticed that Megan had dropped her last name from her social media accounts. They started speculating that his wife is leaving him as she did not address the matter publicly. Neither Andy &nbsp;Byron, nor his wife, nor Kristin Cabot has spoken on the scandal.&nbsp;<h2>Kristin Cabot and Andrew Cabot are separated</h2>Meanwhile, Cabot is splitting from her husband. Andrew Cabot. However, according to reports, they were already separated at the time the kiss cam scandal erupted. "Their decision to divorce was already underway prior to that evening," a spokeswoman for Andrew told PEOPLE. Andrew is the CEO of Privateer Rum and is hopeful that his statement has finally shut down the controversy. Later, it was revealed that Andrew was also present at the same concert with his own date, confirming that he and Kristin had already parted ways by the time the kiss cam scandal erupted.&nbsp;

Andy Byron and his wife, Megan Kerrigan, were seen in public together. The Coldplay kiss cam scandal was said to have rocked their marriage. But it seems all is well in marriageville for the couple who have reportedly gotten over the affair.

All is well in Andy Byron's married life, it seems, after he was caught holding his HR chief in his arms at a Coldplay concert. There were reports that his wife, Megan Kerrigan, had dropped her last name from her social media handles. However, the couple has shut down all rumours of separation after being seen vacationing in Maine last weekend. Both of them also had their wedding rings on, the Daily Mail reported. The publication took exclusive pictures of the couple wearing their wedding bands as they left a lavish Kennebunk mansion to visit the beach. Notably, this is the house Megan has reportedly been living in ever since Byron was seen cheating on his wife. The couple was wearing comfortable lounge wear as they strolled through the neighbourhood. Also Read: Husband of woman caught on Coldplay kiss cam with her boss speaks up, reveals they were... The former Astronomer CEO and Cabot were happily enjoying the concert on July 16 when the jumbotron at Gillette Stadium showed them in a cosy pose. Both of them were shocked when the kiss cam panned towards them. Byron instantly turned away, while Cabot flung her hands to her face and ducked. Chris Martin said, "Look at these two", before instantly being shocked by their reaction, saying, "Oh, what?" "Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy. Holy sh-t. I hope we didn’t do something bad." The video went viral, and the duo made news for weeks. Eagle-eyed netizens started scouring through Byron's personal life online and noticed that Megan had dropped her last name from her social media accounts. They started speculating that his wife is leaving him as she did not address the matter publicly. Neither Andy Byron, nor his wife, nor Kristin Cabot has spoken on the scandal. Kristin Cabot and Andrew Cabot are separated Meanwhile, Cabot is splitting from her husband. Andrew Cabot. However, according to reports, they were already separated at the time the kiss cam scandal erupted. "Their decision to divorce was already underway prior to that evening," a spokeswoman for Andrew told PEOPLE. Andrew is the CEO of Privateer Rum and is hopeful that his statement has finally shut down the controversy. Later, it was revealed that Andrew was also present at the same concert with his own date, confirming that he and Kristin had already parted ways by the time the kiss cam scandal erupted.

Andy Byron and his wife, Megan Kerrigan, were seen in public together. The Coldplay kiss cam scandal was said to have rocked their marriage. But it seems all is well in marriageville for the couple who have reportedly gotten over the affair.

Has Andy Byron, caught cheating with HR chief at Coldplay concert, mended things with wife? Here's what we know

Stress is driving people towards seeking relationships outside their marriages, a survey by Ashley Madison has revealed. According to new global member data gathered by the dating website for married people, the state of affairs in today's world is influencing how people approach romantic connections. It stated that people are looking for new relationships as a way to escape the stress and handle anxiety. The website polled 2,404 Ashley Madison members between July 8–10, 2025. Nearly half (49%) of member respondents said they look to engage in additional relationships during stressful times. Women are more likely than men to have an affair to get rid of stress, with 50% of them admitting to looking for excitement or escape, as compared to 43% men.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashley Madison further found that inflation is another factor that leads them to stray. More than 1 in 3 women (33%) and more than a quarter of men (27%) said inflation impacts their approach to relationships more than recession, political uncertainty, or unstable employment.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ashley-madison-india-data-extramarital-affair-cheating-delhi-mumbai-kanchipuram-1753248635305">Ashley Madison reveals EXTRA-MARITAL AFFAIR capital of India; Delhi covers most bases, and Mumbai...</a>&nbsp;<h2>Casual relationships help during tough times&nbsp;</h2>A majority of them said that when times got tough, they tried to stick to the relationship, instead of breaking up. Forty-three per cent of them stated that more people sought casual relationships during difficult times. A whopping 87% of respondents said they saw people around them either dating, pursuing relationships, or taking relationships to the next level. Casual dating was seen as a mechanism to manage anxiety by 21% of the respondents, as compared to being in a committed relationship, with 19% saying they preferred the latter. Women found more comfort in dating or relationships than men. The survey found that human connection played a crucial role in times of global challenges, and having a partner motivated them to keep going.&nbsp;

 Ashley Madison, the dating website for married people, has revealed in a new survey that the stress of today's world is driving more people to seek casual relationships and have affairs. The respondents say it helps them stay sane during tough times.

Stress is driving people towards seeking relationships outside their marriages, a survey by Ashley Madison has revealed. According to new global member data gathered by the dating website for married people, the state of affairs in today's world is influencing how people approach romantic connections. It stated that people are looking for new relationships as a way to escape the stress and handle anxiety. The website polled 2,404 Ashley Madison members between July 8–10, 2025. Nearly half (49%) of member respondents said they look to engage in additional relationships during stressful times. Women are more likely than men to have an affair to get rid of stress, with 50% of them admitting to looking for excitement or escape, as compared to 43% men. Ashley Madison further found that inflation is another factor that leads them to stray. More than 1 in 3 women (33%) and more than a quarter of men (27%) said inflation impacts their approach to relationships more than recession, political uncertainty, or unstable employment. Also Read: Ashley Madison reveals EXTRA-MARITAL AFFAIR capital of India; Delhi covers most bases, and Mumbai... Casual relationships help during tough times A majority of them said that when times got tough, they tried to stick to the relationship, instead of breaking up. Forty-three per cent of them stated that more people sought casual relationships during difficult times. A whopping 87% of respondents said they saw people around them either dating, pursuing relationships, or taking relationships to the next level. Casual dating was seen as a mechanism to manage anxiety by 21% of the respondents, as compared to being in a committed relationship, with 19% saying they preferred the latter. Women found more comfort in dating or relationships than men. The survey found that human connection played a crucial role in times of global challenges, and having a partner motivated them to keep going.

&nbsp;Ashley Madison, the dating website for married people, has revealed in a new survey that the stress of today's world is driving more people to seek casual relationships and have affairs. The respondents say it helps them stay sane during tough times.

Is your partner stressed? WATCH OUT! An affair might be in the offing, Ashley Madison reveals

With the United States undergoing its first government shutdown in nearly seven years, President Donald Trump has threatened that he would use this as an opportunity to lay off Democrats. The shutdown comes as Senate Democrats late Tuesday (Sep 30) rejected a Republican stopgap funding bill, demanding concessions on healthcare. With funding set to expire at midnight Wednesday, the White House’s budget office has ordered federal agencies to prepare for an “orderly shutdown.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hours-away-from-first-government-shutdown-in-6-years-as-talks-collapse-republicans-and-democrats-trade-blame-1759282651686">US hours away from first government shutdown in 6 years as talks collapse; Republicans and Democrats trade blame</a><h2>Trump to strip away "Democrat things" under the guise of a shutdown?</h2>President Donald Trump, who had earlier predicted the deadlock, blamed Democrats and warned that the stoppage would be used to slash public sector jobs and strip away “Democrat things.”“So we’d be laying off a lot of people that are going to be very affected. And they’re Democrats, they’re going to be Democrats,” Trump said at a White House event earlier. He added that “a lot of good can come from shutdowns” and suggested that his administration would use it to “get rid of a lot of things we didn’t want, and they’d be Democrat things”.The shutdown threatens hundreds of thousands of federal employees with furloughs and could disrupt key government services. It follows earlier mass layoffs under Elon Musk’s newly created Department of Government Efficiency, which slashed federal payrolls this year.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-how-is-he-posting-this-trump-boasts-of-24kt-gold-in-white-house-hours-after-deadly-church-shooting-1759122910225">'HOW is he posting THIS': Trump boasts of 24kt gold in White House hours after deadly church shooting</a><h2>Republican bill to keep funding the government fails</h2>Senate Republicans, who control the chamber but fell short of the 60 votes needed, accused Democrats of staging a showdown for political gain. Democrats countered that Republicans refused to negotiate over skyrocketing healthcare costs.In a memo released after the damning vote, the White House’s Office of Management and Budget directed the affected agencies to “execute their plans for an orderly shutdown.”If no breakthrough comes, the government will begin shutting down at midnight — with both parties racing to assign blame. &nbsp;

The US is in its first shutdown in nearly 7 years as Democrats block a GOP funding bill. Trump warned he’ll use the crisis to cut “Democrat things,” while agencies prepare for an “orderly shutdown.” Midnight is the deadline — and blame is flying on both sides. All you need to know.

With the United States undergoing its first government shutdown in nearly seven years, President Donald Trump has threatened that he would use this as an opportunity to lay off Democrats. The shutdown comes as Senate Democrats late Tuesday (Sep 30) rejected a Republican stopgap funding bill, demanding concessions on healthcare. With funding set to expire at midnight Wednesday, the White House’s budget office has ordered federal agencies to prepare for an “orderly shutdown.” Also read | US hours away from first government shutdown in 6 years as talks collapse; Republicans and Democrats trade blame Trump to strip away "Democrat things" under the guise of a shutdown? President Donald Trump, who had earlier predicted the deadlock, blamed Democrats and warned that the stoppage would be used to slash public sector jobs and strip away “Democrat things.” “So we’d be laying off a lot of people that are going to be very affected. And they’re Democrats, they’re going to be Democrats,” Trump said at a White House event earlier. He added that “a lot of good can come from shutdowns” and suggested that his administration would use it to “get rid of a lot of things we didn’t want, and they’d be Democrat things”. The shutdown threatens hundreds of thousands of federal employees with furloughs and could disrupt key government services. It follows earlier mass layoffs under Elon Musk’s newly created Department of Government Efficiency, which slashed federal payrolls this year. Also read | 'HOW is he posting THIS': Trump boasts of 24kt gold in White House hours after deadly church shooting Republican bill to keep funding the government fails Senate Republicans, who control the chamber but fell short of the 60 votes needed, accused Democrats of staging a showdown for political gain. Democrats countered that Republicans refused to negotiate over skyrocketing healthcare costs. In a memo released after the damning vote, the White House’s Office of Management and Budget directed the affected agencies to “execute their plans for an orderly shutdown.” If no breakthrough comes, the government will begin shutting down at midnight — with both parties racing to assign blame.

The US is in its first shutdown in nearly 7 years as Democrats block a GOP funding bill. Trump warned he’ll use the crisis to cut “Democrat things,” while agencies prepare for an “orderly shutdown.” Midnight is the deadline — and blame is flying on both sides. All you need to know.

'Lot of good can come from shutdowns': Trump threatens Democrats with layoffs

The United States on Tuesday (Sep 30) is hours from its first government shutdown in six years, with funding set to expire at midnight after a dramatic collapse of negotiations in Congress. Despite last-ditch talks, the Senate failed to advance a temporary funding bill, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal workers bracing for furloughs and key services at risk of disruption. President Donald Trump, who earlier predicted, “we’ll probably have a shutdown,” blamed Democrats for the impasse, accusing them of bowing to “far-left maniacs” and warning he would target progressive programs if the stoppage dragged on. Meanwhile, Democrats pointed fingers at Republicans, saying "they are plunging Americans into a shutdown".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-how-is-he-posting-this-trump-boasts-of-24kt-gold-in-white-house-hours-after-deadly-church-shooting-1759122910225">'HOW is he posting THIS': Trump boasts of 24kt gold in White House hours after deadly church shooting</a><h2>Republicans, Democrats trade blame</h2>Republicans, led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, at a press conference after the Senate failed to pass a funding bill, accused Democrats of staging a political showdown. “The Democrat caucus here in town in the Senate has chosen to shut down the government over a clean, nonpartisan funding bill,” Thune said, claiming that this was done to engage in a "showdown" with Trump. "Far-left interest groups and far-left Democratic members wanted a showdown with the president".Democrats, however, pointed the finger back at the White House. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Republicans had “plunged Americans into a shutdown” by refusing to negotiate over rising healthcare costs, warning that Affordable Care Act enrollees would face soaring premiums next year.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-the-peacemaker-10-takeaways-from-his-gaza-peace-plan-that-has-netanyahu-s-backing-1759195574203">Trump the ‘peacemaker’? 10 takeaways from his Gaza peace plan that has Netanyahu's backing</a><h2>History repeats itself: Trump presidencies and US shutdowns</h2>With Republicans controlling both chambers but lacking the 60 Senate votes needed to pass a funding bill, Democrats are trying to flex rare leverage just eight months into Trump’s second term.A shutdown would shutter nonessential government operations, delay pay cheques for federal workers, and disrupt social safety net benefits — a scenario deeply unpopular with voters. The longest shutdown on record, as per AFP, was also under Trump — his first term — and lasted 35 days in 2018-19. &nbsp;

The US is hours from its first government shutdown in six years as Congress fails to pass a funding bill. Trump blames Democrats for bowing to “far-left maniacs,” while Democrats accuse Republicans of plunging America into crisis. All you need to know.

The United States on Tuesday (Sep 30) is hours from its first government shutdown in six years, with funding set to expire at midnight after a dramatic collapse of negotiations in Congress. Despite last-ditch talks, the Senate failed to advance a temporary funding bill, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal workers bracing for furloughs and key services at risk of disruption. President Donald Trump, who earlier predicted, “we’ll probably have a shutdown,” blamed Democrats for the impasse, accusing them of bowing to “far-left maniacs” and warning he would target progressive programs if the stoppage dragged on. Meanwhile, Democrats pointed fingers at Republicans, saying "they are plunging Americans into a shutdown". Also read | 'HOW is he posting THIS': Trump boasts of 24kt gold in White House hours after deadly church shooting Republicans, Democrats trade blame Republicans, led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, at a press conference after the Senate failed to pass a funding bill, accused Democrats of staging a political showdown. “The Democrat caucus here in town in the Senate has chosen to shut down the government over a clean, nonpartisan funding bill,” Thune said, claiming that this was done to engage in a "showdown" with Trump. "Far-left interest groups and far-left Democratic members wanted a showdown with the president". Democrats, however, pointed the finger back at the White House. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Republicans had “plunged Americans into a shutdown” by refusing to negotiate over rising healthcare costs, warning that Affordable Care Act enrollees would face soaring premiums next year. Also read | Trump the ‘peacemaker’? 10 takeaways from his Gaza peace plan that has Netanyahu's backing History repeats itself: Trump presidencies and US shutdowns With Republicans controlling both chambers but lacking the 60 Senate votes needed to pass a funding bill, Democrats are trying to flex rare leverage just eight months into Trump’s second term. A shutdown would shutter nonessential government operations, delay pay cheques for federal workers, and disrupt social safety net benefits — a scenario deeply unpopular with voters. The longest shutdown on record, as per AFP, was also under Trump — his first term — and lasted 35 days in 2018-19.

The US is hours from its first government shutdown in six years as Congress fails to pass a funding bill. Trump blames Democrats for bowing to “far-left maniacs,” while Democrats accuse Republicans of plunging America into crisis. All you need to know.

US hours away from first government shutdown in nearly 7 years as talks collapse; Republicans and Democrats trade blame

Stay ahead with our detailed schedule of bank holidays in India for October 2025! Discover all the key national and regional holidays like Durga Puja, Karva Chauth, Diwali, and Bhai Dooj, and find out which states have bank closures so you can plan accordingly.&nbsp;October 2025 is a month rich with important festivals, cultural events, and national celebrations, many of which are observed as bank holidays in various parts of the country. Major festivals like Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, Diwali, Valmiki Jayanti, and Dhanteras take place, along with internationally significant days. On these occasions, banks close in different states either for public holidays or regional observances.&nbsp;Knowing the complete list of bank holidays in October 2025 helps you plan your financial activities, whether it is withdrawing or depositing cash, visiting the bank for transactions, or preparing for payment deadlines. Bank holidays do not apply uniformly across the country; they vary by state in accordance with local traditions and festivals. Therefore, checking the full holiday calendar is essential to avoid last-minute disruptions.&nbsp;As per the guidelines from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), banks follow three types of holidays: public holidays, national holidays, and region-specific holidays. National holidays such as Gandhi Jayanti are observed in all branches, while regional festivals may only be observed by banks in certain states. Keeping track of these holidays helps save time and avoid unexpected banking delays.&nbsp;<h2>Complete state-wise list of bank holidays in October 2025</h2>&nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Date</th><th>Day</th><th>Event</th><th>States Where Banks Are Closed</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1 October 2025</td><td>Wednesday</td><td>Navaratri Ends / Maha Navami / Dussehra / Ayudhapooja / Vijayadasami / Durga Puja (Dasain)</td><td>Agartala, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Gangtok, Guwahati, Itanagar, Kanpur, Kochi, Kohima, Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, Ranchi, Shillong, Thiruvananthapuram</td></tr><tr><td>2 October 2025</td><td>Thursday</td><td>Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti / Dasara / Vijaya Dashami / Dussehra / Durga Puja (Dasain) / Janmotsav of Sri Sri Sankardeva</td><td>Agartala, Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Gangtok, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Itanagar, Jaipur, Jammu, Kanpur, Kochi, Kohima, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, Panaji, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, Shillong, Shimla, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada</td></tr><tr><td>3 October 2025</td><td>Friday</td><td>Durga Puja (Dasain)</td><td>Gangtok</td></tr><tr><td>4 October 2025</td><td>Saturday</td><td>Durga Puja (Dasain)</td><td>Gangtok, Kolkata, Shimla</td></tr><tr><td>6 October 2025</td><td>Monday</td><td>Lakshmi Puja</td><td>Agartala, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar</td></tr><tr><td>7 October 2025</td><td>Tuesday</td><td>Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti / Kumar Purnima</td><td>Agartala, Bengaluru, Gangtok, Kochi, Kohima, Shimla</td></tr><tr><td>10 October 2025</td><td>Friday</td><td>Karva Chauth</td><td>Agartala, Gangtok, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jaipur, Kanpur, Shimla, Vijayawada</td></tr><tr><td>18 October 2025</td><td>Saturday</td><td>Kati Bihu</td><td>Gangtok</td></tr><tr><td>20 October 2025</td><td>Monday</td><td>Diwali (Deepavali) / Naraka Chaturdashi / Kali Puja</td><td>Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Gangtok, Guwahati, Jaipur, Kanpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, Shillong, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada</td></tr><tr><td>21 October 2025</td><td>Tuesday</td><td>Diwali Amavasya (Laxmi Pujan) / Deepawali / Govardhan Pooja</td><td>Ahmedabad, Gangtok, Guwahati, Imphal, Kanpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, Shimla</td></tr><tr><td>22 October 2025</td><td>Wednesday</td><td>Diwali (Bali Pratipada) / Vikram Samvant New Year Day / Govardhan Pooja / Balipadyami / Laxmi Puja (Deepawali)</td><td>Ahmedabad, Gangtok, Kanpur, Patna, Ranchi, Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>23 October 2025</td><td>Thursday</td><td>Bhai Bij / Bhaidooj / Chitragupt Jayanti / Laxmi Pooja (Deepawali) / Bhratridwitiya / Ningol Chakkouba</td><td>Ahmedabad, Belapur, Gangtok, Imphal, Kanpur, Patna, Ranchi</td></tr><tr><td>27 October 2025</td><td>Monday</td><td>Chath Puja (Evening Puja)</td><td>Patna</td></tr><tr><td>28 October 2025</td><td>Tuesday</td><td>Chath Puja (Morning Puja)</td><td>Patna</td></tr><tr><td>31 October 2025</td><td>Friday</td><td>Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Birthday</td><td>Agartala</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>&nbsp;Additionally, some states experience consecutive bank holidays due to extended festivals, especially in October, when celebrations like Durga Puja, Dussehra, and Diwali take place. This creates longer non-working periods for banks, which customers should keep in mind for timely financial planning. As the nation celebrates these festivals, taking bank holidays into consideration is a practical way to ensure personal and business banking needs continue without disruption.&nbsp;These scheduled breaks also honor India’s rich cultural heritage and national pride, connecting communities through shared observances. For residents and visitors alike, consulting the detailed October 2025 bank holiday calendar is essential for navigating banking services smoothly throughout this festive and significant month.

Make sure to check the full October 2025 bank holiday calendar so you don’t visit the bank on a closed day. With many festivals and regional holidays, planning ahead saves time and avoids last-minute trouble with your banking needs.

Stay ahead with our detailed schedule of bank holidays in India for October 2025! Discover all the key national and regional holidays like Durga Puja, Karva Chauth, Diwali, and Bhai Dooj, and find out which states have bank closures so you can plan accordingly. October 2025 is a month rich with important festivals, cultural events, and national celebrations, many of which are observed as bank holidays in various parts of the country. Major festivals like Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, Diwali, Valmiki Jayanti, and Dhanteras take place, along with internationally significant days. On these occasions, banks close in different states either for public holidays or regional observances. Knowing the complete list of bank holidays in October 2025 helps you plan your financial activities, whether it is withdrawing or depositing cash, visiting the bank for transactions, or preparing for payment deadlines. Bank holidays do not apply uniformly across the country; they vary by state in accordance with local traditions and festivals. Therefore, checking the full holiday calendar is essential to avoid last-minute disruptions. As per the guidelines from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), banks follow three types of holidays: public holidays, national holidays, and region-specific holidays. National holidays such as Gandhi Jayanti are observed in all branches, while regional festivals may only be observed by banks in certain states. Keeping track of these holidays helps save time and avoid unexpected banking delays. Complete state-wise list of bank holidays in October 2025 Date Day Event States Where Banks Are Closed 1 October 2025 Wednesday Navaratri Ends / Maha Navami / Dussehra / Ayudhapooja / Vijayadasami / Durga Puja (Dasain) Agartala, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Gangtok, Guwahati, Itanagar, Kanpur, Kochi, Kohima, Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, Ranchi, Shillong, Thiruvananthapuram 2 October 2025 Thursday Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti / Dasara / Vijaya Dashami / Dussehra / Durga Puja (Dasain) / Janmotsav of Sri Sri Sankardeva Agartala, Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Gangtok, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Itanagar, Jaipur, Jammu, Kanpur, Kochi, Kohima, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, Panaji, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, Shillong, Shimla, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada 3 October 2025 Friday Durga Puja (Dasain) Gangtok 4 October 2025 Saturday Durga Puja (Dasain) Gangtok, Kolkata, Shimla 6 October 2025 Monday Lakshmi Puja Agartala, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar 7 October 2025 Tuesday Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti / Kumar Purnima Agartala, Bengaluru, Gangtok, Kochi, Kohima, Shimla 10 October 2025 Friday Karva Chauth Agartala, Gangtok, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jaipur, Kanpur, Shimla, Vijayawada 18 October 2025 Saturday Kati Bihu Gangtok 20 October 2025 Monday Diwali (Deepavali) / Naraka Chaturdashi / Kali Puja Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Gangtok, Guwahati, Jaipur, Kanpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, Shillong, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada 21 October 2025 Tuesday Diwali Amavasya (Laxmi Pujan) / Deepawali / Govardhan Pooja Ahmedabad, Gangtok, Guwahati, Imphal, Kanpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, Shimla 22 October 2025 Wednesday Diwali (Bali Pratipada) / Vikram Samvant New Year Day / Govardhan Pooja / Balipadyami / Laxmi Puja (Deepawali) Ahmedabad, Gangtok, Kanpur, Patna, Ranchi, Kolkata 23 October 2025 Thursday Bhai Bij / Bhaidooj / Chitragupt Jayanti / Laxmi Pooja (Deepawali) / Bhratridwitiya / Ningol Chakkouba Ahmedabad, Belapur, Gangtok, Imphal, Kanpur, Patna, Ranchi 27 October 2025 Monday Chath Puja (Evening Puja) Patna 28 October 2025 Tuesday Chath Puja (Morning Puja) Patna 31 October 2025 Friday Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Birthday Agartala Additionally, some states experience consecutive bank holidays due to extended festivals, especially in October, when celebrations like Durga Puja, Dussehra, and Diwali take place. This creates longer non-working periods for banks, which customers should keep in mind for timely financial planning. As the nation celebrates these festivals, taking bank holidays into consideration is a practical way to ensure personal and business banking needs continue without disruption. These scheduled breaks also honor India’s rich cultural heritage and national pride, connecting communities through shared observances. For residents and visitors alike, consulting the detailed October 2025 bank holiday calendar is essential for navigating banking services smoothly throughout this festive and significant month.

Make sure to check the full October 2025 bank holiday calendar so you don’t visit the bank on a closed day. With many festivals and regional holidays, planning ahead saves time and avoids last-minute trouble with your banking needs.

October 2025 holidays list: Complete state-wise list of bank holidays in India | full details

Vijayadashami, also popularly known as Dussehra, is one of the important festivals for Hindus, as on this day Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana. Across the country, this day is celebrated with a lot of fanfare and flamboyance, worshipping Lord Rama.&nbsp;In 2025, Dussehra is being celebrated during the month of Ashwina, on Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha on October 2, 2025. This festival typically falls on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, after the nine-day festival of Navratri. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in multiple regions of India, each adding its unique local flavour to the festivities.<h3>When will Vijayadashami be celebrated in 2025? Know the date and time</h3>Dashami Tithi Begins - 07:01 PM on Oct 01, 2025Dashami Tithi Ends - 07:10 PM on Oct 02, 2025Vijay Muhurat - 02:09 PM to 02:56 PMAparahna Puja Time - 01:21 PM to 03:44 PMShravana Nakshatra Begins - 09:13 AM on Oct 02, 2025Shravana Nakshatra Ends - 09:34 AM on Oct 03, 2025<h3>What is the history and significance of Vijayadashami?</h3>Dussehra traces its origin to Hindu mythology and ancient Indian epics, which depict Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana as narrated in the epic Ramayana. Legend says Ravana abducted Rama’s wife, Sita, and after a fierce battle, Rama killed Ravana on this day, signifying the triumph of good over evil.&nbsp;&nbsp;The festival also honours Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Known as Vijayadashami, it symbolises the ultimate conquest of righteousness over wrongdoing.&nbsp;At its essence, Dussehra reminds us that true strength lies in courage, virtue, and righteousness. It inspires self-reflection, generosity, and the pursuit of justice, while helping communities celebrate cultural traditions and shared values.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/dussehra-2025-why-is-ravana-not-burnt-but-worshipped-in-these-places-of-india-1759157217593/amp">Dussehra 2025: Why is Ravana not burnt but worshipped in these places of India?</a>

This festival typically falls on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, after the nine-day festival of Navratri. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in multiple regions of India, each adding its unique local flavour to the festivities.

Vijayadashami, also popularly known as Dussehra, is one of the important festivals for Hindus, as on this day Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana. Across the country, this day is celebrated with a lot of fanfare and flamboyance, worshipping Lord Rama. In 2025, Dussehra is being celebrated during the month of Ashwina, on Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha on October 2, 2025. This festival typically falls on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, after the nine-day festival of Navratri. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in multiple regions of India, each adding its unique local flavour to the festivities. When will Vijayadashami be celebrated in 2025? Know the date and time Dashami Tithi Begins - 07:01 PM on Oct 01, 2025 Dashami Tithi Ends - 07:10 PM on Oct 02, 2025 Vijay Muhurat - 02:09 PM to 02:56 PM Aparahna Puja Time - 01:21 PM to 03:44 PM Shravana Nakshatra Begins - 09:13 AM on Oct 02, 2025 Shravana Nakshatra Ends - 09:34 AM on Oct 03, 2025 What is the history and significance of Vijayadashami? Dussehra traces its origin to Hindu mythology and ancient Indian epics, which depict Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana as narrated in the epic Ramayana. Legend says Ravana abducted Rama’s wife, Sita, and after a fierce battle, Rama killed Ravana on this day, signifying the triumph of good over evil. The festival also honours Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Known as Vijayadashami, it symbolises the ultimate conquest of righteousness over wrongdoing. At its essence, Dussehra reminds us that true strength lies in courage, virtue, and righteousness. It inspires self-reflection, generosity, and the pursuit of justice, while helping communities celebrate cultural traditions and shared values. Also read: Dussehra 2025: Why is Ravana not burnt but worshipped in these places of India?

This festival typically falls on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, after the nine-day festival of Navratri. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in multiple regions of India, each adding its unique local flavour to the festivities.

Dussehra 2025 Date: When will Vijayadashami be celebrated this year? Know exact date, history and significance

From Tuesday (Sep 30), accessing porn sites in yet another US state will become harder, hitting the multi-billion-dollar American adult entertainment industry. Ohio’s age verification law takes effect on Tuesday, even as at least 21 of the 50 US states have enforced laws requiring adult websites to verify that users are 18 or older in order to access the sites. These porn blockades have led to significant changes in how adult sites operate. Millions of Americans will essentially stop accessing these sites as they will have to provide identifiable personal information to prove their age.<h2>America's porn crackdown</h2>For decades, pornography in America hid behind the freedom of expression enshrined in the Constitution. But the crackdown intensified starting in 2022, when Louisiana became the first state to require age verification for sexually explicit websites like Pornhub. The Supreme Court upheld Texas’s HB 1181 in a landmark 6–3 ruling on June 27 this year, ruling that such laws do not violate the First Amendment as long as they merely require adults to verify their age before accessing content deemed “harmful to minors.”Emboldened by the Supreme Court’s stamp of approval, lawmakers across the country swung to action. Now, at least 25 states have passed some form of age verification legislation, and 12 more are mulling similar bills. Platforms have been forced to use government-issued ID checks such as driver’s licences and Social Security cards, facial recognition, or bank transaction data to ensure that only adults access porn sites.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/choking-in-porn-to-be-banned-in-the-uk-heres-why-9031957">Choking in porn could be banned in the UK. Here's why</a><h2>How are the US porn platforms reacting to the blockades?</h2>Aylo, the parent company of Pornhub, has entirely blocked access to the world’s largest porn site in 21 states, citing privacy concerns for users and what it called “unworkable enforcement schemes.” Users in these states now see error pages instead of content, though verified creators in those states can still upload content.OnlyFans, the user-generated content platform, and some smaller platforms have opted to comply by using third-party age verification services such as Yoti, which uses facial estimation technology.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doctored-image-of-giorgia-meloni-on-porn-site-sparks-outrage-in-italy-sickening-details-emerge-1756396723406">Doctored image of Giorgia Meloni on porn site sparks outrage in Italy. Sickening details emerge</a><h2>How are the users trying to dodge the porn blockade?</h2>VPN usage has reportedly exploded in states with active bans, with Florida alone seeing a 1,150 per cent surge in VPN traffic after its law took effect in January. A study from NYU found that searches for VPNs rose 23 per cent in restricted states, with users often rerouting their connections through less restrictive areas like New York to bypass the blocks.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-did-the-government-ban-soft-porn-ott-apps-websites-list-1753435037461">Why did the government ban 'soft-porn' OTT apps, websites? List</a><h2>Protecting minors vs curbing civil liberties: The legal arguments on porn blockades</h2>The ostensible reason for the blockade is protecting children, but critics, including civil liberty and sex worker advocacy groups, warn that these laws could drive users toward more dangerous, unregulated platforms. The block has started a debate on surveillance, privacy, and potential data breaches stemming from ID verification systems.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/porn-age-verification-is-coming-but-can-it-protect-your-privacy-1752774112491">Porn age verification is coming. But can it protect your privacy?</a><h2>How the porn industry is hit by the blockade</h2>Pornhub reportedly saw an 80 per cent drop in traffic in Louisiana after the state enacted its law, translating into millions in lost advertising revenue. Industry experts estimate that age-verification laws could cost adult platforms over $500 million annually if current enforcement continues. The US online adult entertainment revenue could drop by 10–15 per cent in 2025 alone, a loss of up to $450 million, according to estimates.Several independent adult content creators have seen subscriber losses and declining visibility. Their income in blocked states has dropped 20 per cent or more. With roughly 100,000 adult content creators estimated to operate in affected states, the economic ripple effects could be wide-ranging.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sexual-pleasure-a-gift-from-god-but-avoid-porn-says-pope-francis-681192/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/sexual-pleasure-a-gift-from-god-but-avoid-porn-says-pope-francis-681192/embed</a><h2>A boon for the age verification tech industry</h2>The global market for age verification tools reached $2.22 billion in 2025 and is expected to more than double by 2033. But for adult entertainment platforms, the cost of compliance is high, with each verification possibly costing up to 50 cents, adding up to tens of millions in new operational costs for high-traffic sites.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/uk-to-enforce-age-verification-checks-for-porn-access-from-next-week-but-there-is-a-problem-adult-content-rules-online-safety-act-1752755234257">Age verification for porn site access is coming to 14 million UK users next week. But there is a problem...</a><h2>What happens next in the porn sites vs age verification battle?</h2>One aspect everyone is watching closely is federal legislation that would ensure unified standards. There are already lawsuits challenging age verification laws in states like Florida and Kansas, and ongoing legal battles could clarify enforcement by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the industry continues to face disruption and uncertainty as access becomes increasingly restricted across the country. &nbsp;

From September 30, accessing porn sites becomes harder in over 20 US states due to new age verification laws. It's hitting website traffic, creators' income, and the adult industry's revenues.


From Tuesday (Sep 30), accessing porn sites in yet another US state will become harder, hitting the multi-billion-dollar American adult entertainment industry. Ohio’s age verification law takes effect on Tuesday, even as at least 21 of the 50 US states have enforced laws requiring adult websites to verify that users are 18 or older in order to access the sites. These porn blockades have led to significant changes in how adult sites operate. Millions of Americans will essentially stop accessing these sites as they will have to provide identifiable personal information to prove their age. America's porn crackdown For decades, pornography in America hid behind the freedom of expression enshrined in the Constitution. But the crackdown intensified starting in 2022, when Louisiana became the first state to require age verification for sexually explicit websites like Pornhub. The Supreme Court upheld Texas’s HB 1181 in a landmark 6–3 ruling on June 27 this year, ruling that such laws do not violate the First Amendment as long as they merely require adults to verify their age before accessing content deemed “harmful to minors.” Emboldened by the Supreme Court’s stamp of approval, lawmakers across the country swung to action. Now, at least 25 states have passed some form of age verification legislation, and 12 more are mulling similar bills. Platforms have been forced to use government-issued ID checks such as driver’s licences and Social Security cards, facial recognition, or bank transaction data to ensure that only adults access porn sites. Also read: Choking in porn could be banned in the UK. Here's why How are the US porn platforms reacting to the blockades? Aylo, the parent company of Pornhub, has entirely blocked access to the world’s largest porn site in 21 states, citing privacy concerns for users and what it called “unworkable enforcement schemes.” Users in these states now see error pages instead of content, though verified creators in those states can still upload content. OnlyFans, the user-generated content platform, and some smaller platforms have opted to comply by using third-party age verification services such as Yoti, which uses facial estimation technology. Also read: Doctored image of Giorgia Meloni on porn site sparks outrage in Italy. Sickening details emerge How are the users trying to dodge the porn blockade? VPN usage has reportedly exploded in states with active bans, with Florida alone seeing a 1,150 per cent surge in VPN traffic after its law took effect in January. A study from NYU found that searches for VPNs rose 23 per cent in restricted states, with users often rerouting their connections through less restrictive areas like New York to bypass the blocks. Also read: Why did the government ban 'soft-porn' OTT apps, websites? List Protecting minors vs curbing civil liberties: The legal arguments on porn blockades The ostensible reason for the blockade is protecting children, but critics, including civil liberty and sex worker advocacy groups, warn that these laws could drive users toward more dangerous, unregulated platforms. The block has started a debate on surveillance, privacy, and potential data breaches stemming from ID verification systems. Also read: Porn age verification is coming. But can it protect your privacy? How the porn industry is hit by the blockade Pornhub reportedly saw an 80 per cent drop in traffic in Louisiana after the state enacted its law, translating into millions in lost advertising revenue. Industry experts estimate that age-verification laws could cost adult platforms over $500 million annually if current enforcement continues. The US online adult entertainment revenue could drop by 10–15 per cent in 2025 alone, a loss of up to $450 million, according to estimates. Several independent adult content creators have seen subscriber losses and declining visibility. Their income in blocked states has dropped 20 per cent or more. With roughly 100,000 adult content creators estimated to operate in affected states, the economic ripple effects could be wide-ranging. https://www.wionews.com/videos/sexual-pleasure-a-gift-from-god-but-avoid-porn-says-pope-francis-681192/embed A boon for the age verification tech industry The global market for age verification tools reached $2.22 billion in 2025 and is expected to more than double by 2033. But for adult entertainment platforms, the cost of compliance is high, with each verification possibly costing up to 50 cents, adding up to tens of millions in new operational costs for high-traffic sites. Also read: Age verification for porn site access is coming to 14 million UK users next week. But there is a problem... What happens next in the porn sites vs age verification battle? One aspect everyone is watching closely is federal legislation that would ensure unified standards. There are already lawsuits challenging age verification laws in states like Florida and Kansas, and ongoing legal battles could clarify enforcement by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the industry continues to face disruption and uncertainty as access becomes increasingly restricted across the country.

From September 30, accessing porn sites becomes harder in over 20 US states due to new age verification laws. It's hitting website traffic, creators' income, and the adult industry's revenues. &nbsp;

Porn blocked: Multi-billion dollar US adult entertainment industry faces moment of reckoning as more states introduce age verification

Stealing stuff from hotels is now costing guests immensely. According to a report in View from the Wing, people who steal towels from a hotel in Europe are being reported to the government and fined up to 15,000 euros ( approximately US$17,600, or Rs 15 lakh). Hotels are embedding RFID chips in their towels that aren't visible. However, it is not a new trend. But now, they are warning guests against taking the towels, or face prosecution, including jail time. A guest shared a photo of the notice in a hotel room, which stated, "We inform you that all of our towels are equipped with an invisible localizable chip from the RFID system. The towels cannot be carried out of your room." It further warns that in case the towels are removed from the room, "the company reserves the right to denounce you to the relevant agency with fines from €300.00 to €15,000.00 attentively. THE DIRECTION."&nbsp;Notably, the report states that these RFID tags in towels have considerably reduced towel theft in one of the hotels. The number of towel thefts has decreased from 4,000 to 750, helping it save $16,000 per month. If the theft can be reduced across the industry, it would lead to an enormous amount of money being saved. The report further states that monetary fines are not the only punishment such guests face. The Nairobi Hilton got a guest jailed for two years because they stole two towels.&nbsp;Towels are not the only items people allegedly steal from hotel rooms. Someone once reportedly took a grand piano from a Sheraton lobby. Others tried taking televisions from the room. Meanwhile, bathrobes, dishes, coffee machines, pillows, batteries, wine glasses, cutlery, and remote controls remain popular items among people who steal stuff from hotel rooms.

Stealing towels from hotels can now land you in jail. A hotel in Nairobi got a guest sentenced for two years because they stole two towels. Meanwhile, hotels in Europe are fining people as much as US$17,600, or Rs 15 lakh.

Stealing stuff from hotels is now costing guests immensely. According to a report in View from the Wing, people who steal towels from a hotel in Europe are being reported to the government and fined up to 15,000 euros ( approximately US$17,600, or Rs 15 lakh). Hotels are embedding RFID chips in their towels that aren't visible. However, it is not a new trend. But now, they are warning guests against taking the towels, or face prosecution, including jail time. A guest shared a photo of the notice in a hotel room, which stated, "We inform you that all of our towels are equipped with an invisible localizable chip from the RFID system. The towels cannot be carried out of your room." It further warns that in case the towels are removed from the room, "the company reserves the right to denounce you to the relevant agency with fines from €300.00 to €15,000.00 attentively. THE DIRECTION." Notably, the report states that these RFID tags in towels have considerably reduced towel theft in one of the hotels. The number of towel thefts has decreased from 4,000 to 750, helping it save $16,000 per month. If the theft can be reduced across the industry, it would lead to an enormous amount of money being saved. The report further states that monetary fines are not the only punishment such guests face. The Nairobi Hilton got a guest jailed for two years because they stole two towels. Towels are not the only items people allegedly steal from hotel rooms. Someone once reportedly took a grand piano from a Sheraton lobby. Others tried taking televisions from the room. Meanwhile, bathrobes, dishes, coffee machines, pillows, batteries, wine glasses, cutlery, and remote controls remain popular items among people who steal stuff from hotel rooms.

Stealing towels from hotels can now land you in jail. A hotel in Nairobi got a guest sentenced for two years because they stole two towels. Meanwhile, hotels in Europe are fining people as much as US$17,600, or Rs 15 lakh.

Hotels are getting people jailed for stealing towels, slapping fines of Rs 15 lakh | Details

Rising 625 metres above a canyon in China, this suspension bridge turns a long, punishing journey into just 2 minutes - yet its height is only half the story, the real wonder lies in the struggles it conquered to stand here.

'From 2 hours to 2 mins’: What is the Grand Canyon Bridge and how did China manage to build it?

A study is defying a 100-year-old belief about what keeps the world's highest mountain range aloft. The Himalayas have been standing tall in Asia ever since they were formed 50 million years ago. As the Asian and Indian continents collided, tectonic forces squeezed Tibet, reducing the area by almost 1,000 kilometres. The Indian tectonic plate slipped under the Eurasian plate, acting as a platform for the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau to the north as the thickness of Earth's crust doubled. This was first confirmed by Swiss geologist Émile Argand in 1924, who said that the Indian and Asian crusts are stacked on top of each other and stretch for 70 to 80 km deep beneath Earth's surface. But a new study states that this is not possible.&nbsp;According to a paper, the rocks in the crust turn molten around 40 km deep due to extreme temperatures. Pietro Sternai, an associate professor of geophysics at the University of Milano-Bicocca in Italy and the lead author of the study, told Live Science, "If you've got 70 km of crust, then the lowermost part becomes ductile… it becomes like yogurt — and you can't build a mountain on top of yogurt." Sternai says that their analysis reveals that there is a third layer, a piece of mantle, sandwiched between the Asian and Indian crusts. This led the Himalayas to not only grow tall, but has also helped them stay high. The paper was published on August 26 in the journal Tectonics. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/lost-continent-discovered-under-antarctica-and-india-8872820">Pieces of lost continent found under Antarctica and India point to one thing</a>&nbsp;<h2>Blobs are holding Himalayas aloft</h2>This layer sits directly beneath the crust, and its high density ensures that it doesn't liquify at high temperatures. It is light and buoyant, and lifts up higher above Earth's surface like an iceberg. The team of scientists created a simulation of the collision between the Asian and Indian continents. They noted that as the Indian plate slipped beneath the Eurasian plate, blobs rose up and attached themselves to the bottom of the Asian crust and the base of the lithosphere. Sternai say that this shows that a rigid layer is present between the two plates. He says that this creates the perfect conditions for the Himalayas to stand tall. "You've got all the ingredients you need to uplift topography and sustain the weight of the Himalayas and Tibetan plateau," he said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the authors are aware that defying Argand's theory isn't easy and borders on controversial. But they are aware that the study results should not be ignored since they explain several geological oddities in the Himalayas. &nbsp;

The Himlayas were formed 50 million years ago and are believed to be standing on the Indian tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate. However, a study now states that that might not be the case. In fact, there is something else also that has kept the mountains aloft.

A study is defying a 100-year-old belief about what keeps the world's highest mountain range aloft. The Himalayas have been standing tall in Asia ever since they were formed 50 million years ago. As the Asian and Indian continents collided, tectonic forces squeezed Tibet, reducing the area by almost 1,000 kilometres. The Indian tectonic plate slipped under the Eurasian plate, acting as a platform for the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau to the north as the thickness of Earth's crust doubled. This was first confirmed by Swiss geologist Émile Argand in 1924, who said that the Indian and Asian crusts are stacked on top of each other and stretch for 70 to 80 km deep beneath Earth's surface. But a new study states that this is not possible. According to a paper, the rocks in the crust turn molten around 40 km deep due to extreme temperatures. Pietro Sternai, an associate professor of geophysics at the University of Milano-Bicocca in Italy and the lead author of the study, told Live Science, "If you've got 70 km of crust, then the lowermost part becomes ductile… it becomes like yogurt — and you can't build a mountain on top of yogurt." Sternai says that their analysis reveals that there is a third layer, a piece of mantle, sandwiched between the Asian and Indian crusts. This led the Himalayas to not only grow tall, but has also helped them stay high. The paper was published on August 26 in the journal Tectonics. Also Read: Pieces of lost continent found under Antarctica and India point to one thing Blobs are holding Himalayas aloft This layer sits directly beneath the crust, and its high density ensures that it doesn't liquify at high temperatures. It is light and buoyant, and lifts up higher above Earth's surface like an iceberg. The team of scientists created a simulation of the collision between the Asian and Indian continents. They noted that as the Indian plate slipped beneath the Eurasian plate, blobs rose up and attached themselves to the bottom of the Asian crust and the base of the lithosphere. Sternai say that this shows that a rigid layer is present between the two plates. He says that this creates the perfect conditions for the Himalayas to stand tall. "You've got all the ingredients you need to uplift topography and sustain the weight of the Himalayas and Tibetan plateau," he said. Meanwhile, the authors are aware that defying Argand's theory isn't easy and borders on controversial. But they are aware that the study results should not be ignored since they explain several geological oddities in the Himalayas.

The Himalayas were formed 50 million years ago and are believed to be standing on the Indian tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate. However, a study now states that that might not be the case. In fact, there is something else that has kept the mountains aloft.

Himalayas are not standing on Indian and Eurasian plates alone, as a secret third layer is revealed

Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, discovered on July 1, 2025, is approaching its closest distance from the Sun now. It is expected to be invisible from Earth soon. It will be on the opposite side of the Sun for some time. The interloper will reappear in the sky in late November, before approaching its closest passage to Earth, approximately 268 million kilometres or 1.8 Astronomical Units away in mid-December, which is approximately 1.8 times the distance between the Earth and the Sun.<h2>The best view of comet 3I/ATLAS</h2>The interstellar comet is now just a few degrees away from the Sun, making it optimal for visibility just an hour after the Sun sets. Its perihelion is expected on October 29, 2025, ie, closest to the Sun, at approximately 202 million kilometres distance. It will be closer than the other comets; however, Earth’s going to miss the moment. The best view of the comet will be in early December, just before its closest approach to Earth in mid-December.&nbsp;Due to its faintness, a telescope with a minimum 70 mm aperture will be needed for a clear look. A secluded area far from the light pollution of cities will be an optimal space to observe the comet.&nbsp;The fascinating interstellar visitor has a nucleus diameter of roughly 5.6 kilometres and is approaching at speeds over 210,000 km/h. Astronomers have carefully studied the light coming from the comet and found that it has cyanide and nickel in its coma. Additionally, NASA's SPHEREx spacecraft has detected carbon dioxide gas and water ice in the comet, confirming its composition. The Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is the third visitor after &nbsp;1I/’Oumuamua, discovered in 2017, and Comet 2I/Borisov, discovered in 2019. It is twice as fast and larger than the other two.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, discovered in July 2025, is approaching perihelion and will soon be temporarily invisible from Earth. The comet, larger and faster than its predecessors, will be best visible in early December. Learn how to view it and its unique composition.

Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, discovered on July 1, 2025, is approaching its closest distance from the Sun now. It is expected to be invisible from Earth soon. It will be on the opposite side of the Sun for some time. The interloper will reappear in the sky in late November, before approaching its closest passage to Earth, approximately 268 million kilometres or 1.8 Astronomical Units away in mid-December, which is approximately 1.8 times the distance between the Earth and the Sun. The best view of comet 3I/ATLAS The interstellar comet is now just a few degrees away from the Sun, making it optimal for visibility just an hour after the Sun sets. Its perihelion is expected on October 29, 2025, ie, closest to the Sun, at approximately 202 million kilometres distance. It will be closer than the other comets; however, Earth’s going to miss the moment. The best view of the comet will be in early December, just before its closest approach to Earth in mid-December. Due to its faintness, a telescope with a minimum 70 mm aperture will be needed for a clear look. A secluded area far from the light pollution of cities will be an optimal space to observe the comet. The fascinating interstellar visitor has a nucleus diameter of roughly 5.6 kilometres and is approaching at speeds over 210,000 km/h. Astronomers have carefully studied the light coming from the comet and found that it has cyanide and nickel in its coma. Additionally, NASA's SPHEREx spacecraft has detected carbon dioxide gas and water ice in the comet, confirming its composition. The Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is the third visitor after 1I/’Oumuamua, discovered in 2017, and Comet 2I/Borisov, discovered in 2019. It is twice as fast and larger than the other two.

Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, discovered in July 2025, is approaching perihelion and will soon be temporarily invisible from Earth. The comet, larger and faster than its predecessors, will be best visible in early December. Learn how to view it and its unique composition.

Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS larger than expected, set to vanish from view before reappearing in November 2025

The United Arab Emirates has rolled out a major overhaul of its visa and residency system, adding four new visit visa categories and expanding options for vulnerable groups and professionals. Officials say the reforms aim to attract global talent, boost tourism, and improve inclusivity. This is good news for Indian professionals, who recently were left shocked by a steep increase in the US H-1B visa fee as the Trump administration raised it to $10,000.The &nbsp;UAE also happens to be one of the locations favoured by Indians. In 2024, about 7.8 million Indians travelled to the UAE. Here's all you need to know about the UAE's new visas.<h2>UAE's new visit visas</h2><h3>AI specialist visa</h3>For global tech talent, issued on a single or multiple entry with a sponsor’s letter from a recognised host or sponsoring technology company.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-the-peacemaker-10-takeaways-from-his-gaza-peace-plan-that-has-netanyahu-s-backing-1759195574203">Trump the ‘peacemaker’? 10 takeaways from his Gaza peace plan that has Netanyahu's backing</a><h3>Entertainment visa</h3>For short-term recreational visits.<h3>Event visa</h3>Covers festivals, exhibitions, conferences, cultural or sporting events, with host sponsorship required.<h3>Cruise tourism visa</h3>Multiple-entry permit for tourists arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats, tied to an approved itinerary and licensed operator.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muslim-nations-back-trump-s-gaza-peace-plan-but-will-hamas-accept-the-deal-1759193878046">Key Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan — but will Hamas accept the deal?</a>UAE has also announced updates in its residency visas.<h3>Humanitarian permit</h3>One-year residency (renewable) for those displaced by wars, disasters, or unrest.Residency for widows and divorcees: Six-month window to apply after loss of spouse.Family and friends visa: Residents can now sponsor relatives and friends up to the third degree, depending on income.<h2>Work and business reforms</h2><h3>Business exploration visa</h3>For entrepreneurs and professionals with proof of solvency or ownership.<h3>Truck drivers’ visa</h3>Single or multiple entry with licensed freight company sponsorship, financial guarantees, and health insurance.Authorities said the changes strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for talent, tourism, and trade, while balancing economic growth with social inclusivity. &nbsp;

The UAE has launched a major visa and residency overhaul to attract global talent and boost tourism. Here's all you need to know.The UAE has launched a major visa and residency overhaul to attract global talent and boost tourism. Here's all you need to know.

The United Arab Emirates has rolled out a major overhaul of its visa and residency system, adding four new visit visa categories and expanding options for vulnerable groups and professionals. Officials say the reforms aim to attract global talent, boost tourism, and improve inclusivity. This is good news for Indian professionals, who recently were left shocked by a steep increase in the US H-1B visa fee as the Trump administration raised it to $10,000.The UAE also happens to be one of the locations favoured by Indians. In 2024, about 7.8 million Indians travelled to the UAE. Here's all you need to know about the UAE's new visas. UAE's new visit visas AI specialist visa For global tech talent, issued on a single or multiple entry with a sponsor’s letter from a recognised host or sponsoring technology company. Also read | Trump the ‘peacemaker’? 10 takeaways from his Gaza peace plan that has Netanyahu's backing Entertainment visa For short-term recreational visits. Event visa Covers festivals, exhibitions, conferences, cultural or sporting events, with host sponsorship required. Cruise tourism visa Multiple-entry permit for tourists arriving via cruise ships or leisure boats, tied to an approved itinerary and licensed operator. Also read | Key Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan — but will Hamas accept the deal? UAE has also announced updates in its residency visas. Humanitarian permit One-year residency (renewable) for those displaced by wars, disasters, or unrest. Residency for widows and divorcees: Six-month window to apply after loss of spouse. Family and friends visa: Residents can now sponsor relatives and friends up to the third degree, depending on income. Work and business reforms Business exploration visa For entrepreneurs and professionals with proof of solvency or ownership. Truck drivers’ visa Single or multiple entry with licensed freight company sponsorship, financial guarantees, and health insurance. Authorities said the changes strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for talent, tourism, and trade, while balancing economic growth with social inclusivity.

The UAE has launched a major visa and residency overhaul to attract global talent and boost tourism. Here's all you need to know.

UAE unveils new visa categories, expands residency rules for global talent. Good news for Indians amid H-1B row?

Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas is the hottest topic among astronomers right now. Its speed, light, trajectory, tail, everything is strange. This visitor from outside the solar system is not behaving like a typical comet. Its appearance and behaviour have confused scientists. One of them has even flagged it, claiming it could be a dangerous alien spaceship coming to probe the planets in the solar system, and that we should be ready to combat a possible threat. This has made even the common man interested in the comet. The alien attack theory has gone viral, and everyone is looking for answers. Here are some common questions answered about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-estimates-interstellar-object-3i-atlas-beamed-the-wow-signal-48-years-ago-1759119107709">3I/Atlas</a>.&nbsp;<h2>What is 3I/Atlas?</h2>It is an interstellar object that was first observed on July 1 by the ATLAS Survey Telescope in Chile. Since then, several other telescopes, such as the James Webb, Hubble and the Very Large Telescope, have also captured images of the object zooming through the solar system.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3i-atlas-anomalies-its-mass-is-likely-bigger-than-33-billion-tons-too-large-to-be-a-comet-1758857250208">3I/Atlas anomalies: Its mass is likely bigger than 33 billion tons, too large to be a comet</a><h2>How do we know that 3I/Atlas is coming from interstellar space?</h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/everything-we-know-about-interstellar-object-3i-atlas-size-speed-origin-arrival-and-alien-speculations-explained-1757413577593">3I/Atlas</a> has a strange trajectory. Its path is careening through the solar system in a way that comets that reside in our solar system do not typically behave. This led scientists to conclude that 3I/Atlas is an interstellar visitor.<h2>Speed of 3I/Atlas</h2>The object is moving at a staggering speed of 221,000 km/hr.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/interstellar-object-3i-atlas-grows-visible-tail-in-live-gemini-images-1757049928075">Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS grows visible tail in live Gemini images. So, it's a comet?</a><h2>How old is 3I/Atlas?</h2>The alien comet is older than our solar system. According to a July 2025 study led by Matthew Hopkins, 3I/ATLAS could be between 7.6 and 14 billion years old. This makes 3I/ATLAS older than the solar system, which was born 4.6 billion years ago.<h2>How big is 3I/Atlas?</h2>There is no consensus on the size of 3I/Atlas. The Hubble Space Telescope observations suggest that the diameter of 3I/ATLAS's nucleus is between 0.32 and 5.6 km, with scientists saying it is likely only about a kilometre in diameter. Meanwhile, Harvard scientist Avi Loeb claims that its nucleus measures 46 kilometres. Recently, a study by Loeb, Richard Cloete and Peter Veres showed that the mass of 3I/ATLAS must be bigger than 33 billion tons, and that the "diameter of its solid-density nucleus must be larger than 5 kilometres."<h2>When was 3I/Atlas first seen?</h2>Officially, it was first detected on July 1 by the Atlas telescope in Chile. However, scientists then checked for more data on other telescopes and found that NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) had pictured it back in May. It showed that between May 7 and June 3, 3I/ATLAS suddenly became five times brighter. This increasing brightness was an anomaly, as scientists say the brightness should have gone up by only 1.5 times.<h2>3I/Atlas anomalies</h2>If it is 33 billion tons in mass, it is an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3i-atlas-anomalies-its-mass-is-likely-bigger-than-33-billion-tons-too-large-to-be-a-comet-1758857250208">anomaly</a> for a regular comet. Its trajectory makes it pass through most of the planets in the solar system, which has also been flagged as an anomaly. It also lacked a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/interstellar-comet-3i-atlas-could-soon-lose-its-tail-following-a-beating-by-our-sun-1758870238505">cometary tail</a> for a long time, which stumped scientists. It is moving at an extremely fast speed. Loeb even claimed at one point that it seems to be generating its own light.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-interstellar-object-3i-atlas-the-latest-object-from-beyond-our-solar-system-1756530823580/embed<h2>Will 3I/Atlas hit Earth?</h2>No. The interstellar object is slated to safely pass by Earth. Its closest approach to our planet will be in December 2025, when it will be at a distance of about 1.8 AU (273 million kilometres).<h2>Where is 3I/Atlas now?</h2>Right now, 3I/Atlas is about 3.5 astronomical units (523 million kilometres) from Earth. It is zooming towards the inner solar system and is inside the orbit of Jupiter. It will reach perihelion, that is, its closest point to the Sun, on October 30, 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

How old is interstellar comet 3I/Atlas? How do we know it is coming from interstellar space? Will it hit Earth? What is its nature, and what speed is it moving at? Here are all your queries about 3I/Atlas answered.

Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas is the hottest topic among astronomers right now. Its speed, light, trajectory, tail, everything is strange. This visitor from outside the solar system is not behaving like a typical comet. Its appearance and behaviour have confused scientists. One of them has even flagged it, claiming it could be a dangerous alien spaceship coming to probe the planets in the solar system, and that we should be ready to combat a possible threat. This has made even the common man interested in the comet. The alien attack theory has gone viral, and everyone is looking for answers. Here are some common questions answered about 3I/Atlas. What is 3I/Atlas? It is an interstellar object that was first observed on July 1 by the ATLAS Survey Telescope in Chile. Since then, several other telescopes, such as the James Webb, Hubble and the Very Large Telescope, have also captured images of the object zooming through the solar system. Also Read: 3I/Atlas anomalies: Its mass is likely bigger than 33 billion tons, too large to be a comet How do we know that 3I/Atlas is coming from interstellar space? 3I/Atlas has a strange trajectory. Its path is careening through the solar system in a way that comets that reside in our solar system do not typically behave. This led scientists to conclude that 3I/Atlas is an interstellar visitor. Speed of 3I/Atlas The object is moving at a staggering speed of 221,000 km/hr. Also Read: Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS grows visible tail in live Gemini images. So, it's a comet? How old is 3I/Atlas? The alien comet is older than our solar system. According to a July 2025 study led by Matthew Hopkins, 3I/ATLAS could be between 7.6 and 14 billion years old. This makes 3I/ATLAS older than the solar system, which was born 4.6 billion years ago. How big is 3I/Atlas? There is no consensus on the size of 3I/Atlas. The Hubble Space Telescope observations suggest that the diameter of 3I/ATLAS's nucleus is between 0.32 and 5.6 km, with scientists saying it is likely only about a kilometre in diameter. Meanwhile, Harvard scientist Avi Loeb claims that its nucleus measures 46 kilometres. Recently, a study by Loeb, Richard Cloete and Peter Veres showed that the mass of 3I/ATLAS must be bigger than 33 billion tons, and that the "diameter of its solid-density nucleus must be larger than 5 kilometres." When was 3I/Atlas first seen? Officially, it was first detected on July 1 by the Atlas telescope in Chile. However, scientists then checked for more data on other telescopes and found that NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) had pictured it back in May. It showed that between May 7 and June 3, 3I/ATLAS suddenly became five times brighter. This increasing brightness was an anomaly, as scientists say the brightness should have gone up by only 1.5 times. 3I/Atlas anomalies If it is 33 billion tons in mass, it is an anomaly for a regular comet. Its trajectory makes it pass through most of the planets in the solar system, which has also been flagged as an anomaly. It also lacked a cometary tail for a long time, which stumped scientists. It is moving at an extremely fast speed. Loeb even claimed at one point that it seems to be generating its own light. https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-interstellar-object-3i-atlas-the-latest-object-from-beyond-our-solar-system-1756530823580/embed Will 3I/Atlas hit Earth? No. The interstellar object is slated to safely pass by Earth. Its closest approach to our planet will be in December 2025, when it will be at a distance of about 1.8 AU (273 million kilometres). Where is 3I/Atlas now? Right now, 3I/Atlas is about 3.5 astronomical units (523 million kilometres) from Earth. It is zooming towards the inner solar system and is inside the orbit of Jupiter. It will reach perihelion, that is, its closest point to the Sun, on October 30, 2025.

How old is interstellar comet 3I/Atlas? How do we know it is coming from interstellar space? Will it hit Earth? What is its nature, and what speed is it moving at? Here are all your queries about 3I/Atlas answered.

Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas: Threat to Earth, speed, age and other questions answered

An optical illusion has divided the internet, as people can't agree on the colour they are seeing. The black and blue dress (or was it white and golden?) once stumped netizens, and the latest illusion is also confusing people about the colour they are seeing. A scientist from Harvard Medical School has created the illusion. It contains nine dots placed on a purplish background. The colour of the dots is a point of contention. Some people think the dots are blue, while others think they are either purple or violet. An even weirder observation is that some people say they see one dot purple; however, it keeps moving around (same here). Take a look and let us know what you see.&nbsp;The nine-dot optical illusion is being heavily debated on Reddit. The caption of the post reads: "Are these dots blue or purple?" Nearly 5,000 users have reacted to the post, with hundreds more commenting on the optical illusion. &nbsp;Some see purple, some see violet, while others see blue. For some people, it changes depending on the point from which they are looking at it. A user wrote, "If I look directly at it, it's purple. If I look away at all it's blue." One commenter wrote, "My eyes are going crazy... I don't think I'll sleep tonight. Thank you for sharing this."&nbsp;<h2>Why do the dots change colour in the optical illusion?</h2>Meanwhile, the most intriguing observation is that the dots change colour depending on which one you are looking at. One user wrote, "Only one looks purple to me, but it keeps moving." Another added, "How does the purple dot I'm looking at know to change color?&nbsp;The optical illusion was invented by Dr Hinnerk Schulz-Hildebrandt. So, what colour are the dots really? According to the creator, all the dots are solid purple on a blue-purple background. If you place the picture 30 cm away from your face, and look at each dot one by one, only the centre dot in your focus appears purple. Dr Schulz-Hildebrandt wrote, “A pattern of purple objects on a blue background appears purple only where the viewer focuses directly. At the periphery, perception shifts toward blue.”

<blockquote class="reddit-embed-bq" style="height:500px" data-embed-height="740"><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/opticalillusions/comments/1njqu15/are_these_dots_blue_or_purple/">Are these dots blue or purple?</a> by<a href="https://www.reddit.com/user/Connect-Opening-1991/">u/Connect-Opening-1991</a> in<a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/opticalillusions/">opticalillusions</a></blockquote><script async="" src="https://embed.reddit.com/widgets.js" charset="UTF-8"></script>

Are the dots purple, blue or violet? Optical illusion of nine dots has stumped the internet, as people can't agree on the colour of the dots. A Harvard Medical School scientist has designed the optical illusions. Take a look, and let us know what colour the dots appear to you.

An optical illusion has divided the internet, as people can't agree on the colour they are seeing. The black and blue dress (or was it white and golden?) once stumped netizens, and the latest illusion is also confusing people about the colour they are seeing. A scientist from Harvard Medical School has created the illusion. It contains nine dots placed on a purplish background. The colour of the dots is a point of contention. Some people think the dots are blue, while others think they are either purple or violet. An even weirder observation is that some people say they see one dot purple; however, it keeps moving around (same here). Take a look and let us know what you see. The nine-dot optical illusion is being heavily debated on Reddit. The caption of the post reads: "Are these dots blue or purple?" Nearly 5,000 users have reacted to the post, with hundreds more commenting on the optical illusion. Some see purple, some see violet, while others see blue. For some people, it changes depending on the point from which they are looking at it. A user wrote, "If I look directly at it, it's purple. If I look away at all it's blue." One commenter wrote, "My eyes are going crazy... I don't think I'll sleep tonight. Thank you for sharing this." Why do the dots change colour in the optical illusion? Meanwhile, the most intriguing observation is that the dots change colour depending on which one you are looking at. One user wrote, "Only one looks purple to me, but it keeps moving." Another added, "How does the purple dot I'm looking at know to change color? The optical illusion was invented by Dr Hinnerk Schulz-Hildebrandt. So, what colour are the dots really? According to the creator, all the dots are solid purple on a blue-purple background. If you place the picture 30 cm away from your face, and look at each dot one by one, only the centre dot in your focus appears purple. Dr Schulz-Hildebrandt wrote, “A pattern of purple objects on a blue background appears purple only where the viewer focuses directly. At the periphery, perception shifts toward blue.”

Are the dots purple, blue or violet? Optical illusion of nine dots has stumped the internet, as people can't agree on the colour of the dots. A Harvard Medical School scientist has designed the optical illusions. Take a look, and let us know what colour the dots appear to you.

Purple, blue, or violet? Nine-dot optical illusion stumps netizens. What do you see? Photo inside

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Sep 29) presented a detailed plan to end the Gaza war, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backing it and warning Hamas to accept or face further military action. The proposal mixes security guarantees for Israel with promises of aid, governance reforms, and economic revival for Gaza. Here are the 10 key takeaways:<h2>1. Immediate ceasefire and hostage release</h2>If both sides accept, Israel will halt all military operations. Hamas will have 72 hours to return hostages from October 7, alive or dead. Israel will free 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life terms, 1,700 Gazans detained during the war, and exchange the remains of Palestinians for those of Israeli hostages.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muslim-nations-back-trump-s-gaza-peace-plan-but-will-hamas-accept-the-deal-1759193878046">Key Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan — but will Hamas accept the deal?</a><h2>2. Phased Israeli withdrawal</h2>Secondly, the Israel Defence Forces will pull back in stages as conditions are met. A full exit will follow once demilitarisation benchmarks are verified and a security mechanism is in place.<h2>3. Trump the 'peacemaker'</h2>A new “Board of Peace” will act as the transactional authority, and it will be headed by none other than Trump. It will also include other world leaders, including former UK prime minister Tony Blair. This body will oversee governance and direct aid flows until local Palestinian institutions are ready to take over.<h2>4. No forced displacement or annexation</h2>The plan rules out expelling Palestinians or annexing Gaza. Instead, residents will be encouraged to rebuild their lives inside the strip with international support.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-gaza-peace-proposal-leans-toward-israeli-side-says-senior-hamas-official-1759177686661">Trump’s Gaza peace plan leans toward Israeli side, says senior Hamas official</a><h2>5. Role of Hamas</h2>Hamas will not govern Gaza. However, members who surrender arms and accept peaceful coexistence will be granted amnesty or safe passage out of the territory.<h2>6. International Stabilisation Force</h2>An international force, backed by Arab partners, will deploy to Gaza to train Palestinian police, secure borders, and prevent arms smuggling. Indonesia has already shown willingness to contribute troops.<h2>7. Humanitarian surge</h2>Aid will be scaled up immediately, with UN and Red Crescent agencies overseeing delivery. Priorities include restoring power, water, hospitals, bakeries, and clearing rubble.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-trump-says-israel-will-not-annex-gaza-reveals-plan-to-end-war-1759173663956/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-trump-says-israel-will-not-annex-gaza-reveals-plan-to-end-war-1759173663956/embed</a><h2>8. Gaza’s economic reboot</h2>The plan envisions Gaza as a “special economic zone” with preferential trade terms. Development projects would focus on jobs, infrastructure, and housing, aiming to turn the enclave into a hub of opportunity.It must be noted that Trump previously expressed an interest in developing property in the territory. He even posted an AI-generated video imagining scenes of him and Netanyahu sunbathing in Gaza, and portraying a resort called "TRUMP GAZA" where Gaza's ruins once stood.<h2>9. Palestinian Authority’s future unsure</h2>While Netanyahu rejects current Palestinian Authority involvement, the plan leaves room for the Authority once it completes reforms backed by international partners like France and Saudi Arabia.It suggests allowing the Palestinian Authority a role, once it completes its "reform program". However, speaking alongside Trump, Netanyahu said he saw "no role whatsoever" for the Palestinian Authority without it "undergoing a radical and genuine transformation."<h2>10. A pathway to Palestinian statehood</h2>For the first time in years, the door to statehood is explicitly mentioned. The plan acknowledges Palestinian aspirations and says conditions may soon allow credible steps toward self-determination."The conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood, which we recognise as the aspiration of the Palestinian people," the plan says. &nbsp;

Donald Trump has unveiled a plan to end the Gaza war, which has already received Netanyahu’s backing. From ceasefire and aid to Gaza’s economic reboot and a path to statehood, the deal is bold and controversial. Read the full breakdown of what’s at stake.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Sep 29) presented a detailed plan to end the Gaza war, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backing it and warning Hamas to accept or face further military action. The proposal mixes security guarantees for Israel with promises of aid, governance reforms, and economic revival for Gaza. Here are the 10 key takeaways: 1. Immediate ceasefire and hostage release If both sides accept, Israel will halt all military operations. Hamas will have 72 hours to return hostages from October 7, alive or dead. Israel will free 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life terms, 1,700 Gazans detained during the war, and exchange the remains of Palestinians for those of Israeli hostages. Also read | Key Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan — but will Hamas accept the deal? 2. Phased Israeli withdrawal Secondly, the Israel Defence Forces will pull back in stages as conditions are met. A full exit will follow once demilitarisation benchmarks are verified and a security mechanism is in place. 3. Trump the 'peacemaker' A new “Board of Peace” will act as the transactional authority, and it will be headed by none other than Trump. It will also include other world leaders, including former UK prime minister Tony Blair. This body will oversee governance and direct aid flows until local Palestinian institutions are ready to take over. 4. No forced displacement or annexation The plan rules out expelling Palestinians or annexing Gaza. Instead, residents will be encouraged to rebuild their lives inside the strip with international support. Also read | Trump’s Gaza peace plan leans toward Israeli side, says senior Hamas official 5. Role of Hamas Hamas will not govern Gaza. However, members who surrender arms and accept peaceful coexistence will be granted amnesty or safe passage out of the territory. 6. International Stabilisation Force An international force, backed by Arab partners, will deploy to Gaza to train Palestinian police, secure borders, and prevent arms smuggling. Indonesia has already shown willingness to contribute troops. 7. Humanitarian surge Aid will be scaled up immediately, with UN and Red Crescent agencies overseeing delivery. Priorities include restoring power, water, hospitals, bakeries, and clearing rubble. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-trump-says-israel-will-not-annex-gaza-reveals-plan-to-end-war-1759173663956/embed 8. Gaza’s economic reboot The plan envisions Gaza as a “special economic zone” with preferential trade terms. Development projects would focus on jobs, infrastructure, and housing, aiming to turn the enclave into a hub of opportunity. It must be noted that Trump previously expressed an interest in developing property in the territory. He even posted an AI-generated video imagining scenes of him and Netanyahu sunbathing in Gaza, and portraying a resort called "TRUMP GAZA" where Gaza's ruins once stood. 9. Palestinian Authority’s future unsure While Netanyahu rejects current Palestinian Authority involvement, the plan leaves room for the Authority once it completes reforms backed by international partners like France and Saudi Arabia. It suggests allowing the Palestinian Authority a role, once it completes its "reform program". However, speaking alongside Trump, Netanyahu said he saw "no role whatsoever" for the Palestinian Authority without it "undergoing a radical and genuine transformation." 10. A pathway to Palestinian statehood For the first time in years, the door to statehood is explicitly mentioned. The plan acknowledges Palestinian aspirations and says conditions may soon allow credible steps toward self-determination. "The conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood, which we recognise as the aspiration of the Palestinian people," the plan says.

Donald Trump has unveiled a plan to end the Gaza war, which has already received Netanyahu’s backing. From ceasefire and aid to Gaza’s economic reboot and a path to statehood, the deal is bold and controversial. Read the full breakdown of what’s at stake.

Trump the ‘peacemaker’? 10 takeaways from his Gaza peace plan that has Netanyahu's backing

An Indian-origin couple from Australia has issued an apology on Monday (Sep 29) after a video of them kissing during a Garba event in Vadodara, Gujarat, went viral on social media. The video also triggered criticism for the couple online. The clip, made on Sep 26 at the United Way Garba in Kalali ground, shows that the couple is dancing energetically before the husband lifts his wife and kisses her on the lips. This event is one of the world’s biggest Navratri celebrations and draws around 30,000-35,000 people every night, including many NRIs.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The NRI couple has issued a formal apology after their kssing video at a Garba event in Vadodara went viral. The couple were called to the police station after the United Way Garba event. They are Australian nationals of Indian origin. They issued a written apology. <a href="https://t.co/0dsOk0jWD9">pic.twitter.com/0dsOk0jWD9</a>&mdash; Sensei Kraken Zero (@YearOfTheKraken) <a href="https://twitter.com/YearOfTheKraken/status/1972207505251225649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As the video went viral on social media, some online users called it “obscene” and said that it disrespected the religious and cultural spirit of the Navratri festival. While some people defended the act, calling it a simple display of affection and not offensive.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-keeps-the-mighty-himalayas-aloft-study-debunks-100-year-old-theory-1759145723932">What keeps the mighty Himalayas aloft? Study debunks 100-year-old theory</a>&nbsp;Several people also filed complaints at the Atladra Police Station against the Indian-origin couple. The police then tracked down the couple and called them in. Following the backlash, the couple submitted a written apology at the station and admitted their mistake. After the apology, they were allowed to leave without any legal case. A senior officer confirmed that the two later returned to Australia.&nbsp;Police also state that the man and woman were married for 16 years and are the parents of two children. Currently, they are based in Australia and had travelled to Vadodara to visit their parents and participate in the garba celebrations.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-sinkhole-opens-in-bangkok-swallows-cars-electricity-pole-watch-1758790059770">Massive sinkhole opens in Bangkok, swallows cars, electricity pole - WATCH</a>&nbsp;The couple were identified as Pratik Patel, originally from Manjalpur, and his wife, from Anand. Both were among thousands who attended the United Way Garba, a major event of Gujarat’s Navratri festivities.

The incident took place on Sep 26 during the United Way Garba, held at the Kalali ground in Vadodara, Gujarat.

An Indian-origin couple from Australia has issued an apology on Monday (Sep 29) after a video of them kissing during a Garba event in Vadodara, Gujarat, went viral on social media. The video also triggered criticism for the couple online. The clip, made on Sep 26 at the United Way Garba in Kalali ground, shows that the couple is dancing energetically before the husband lifts his wife and kisses her on the lips. This event is one of the world’s biggest Navratri celebrations and draws around 30,000-35,000 people every night, including many NRIs.

The incident took place on Sep 26 during&nbsp;the United Way Garba, held at the Kalali ground in Vadodara, Gujarat.

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