Underwater Vibration Sensor Uses Air-Water Waves to Help Voice-Disabled Communicate Hands-Free
Researchers at a technical institute, in collaboration with a US university, have developed an underwater vibration sensor designed to assist individuals with voice disabilities in communicating. The sensor detects subtle water surface waves caused by exhaled air, converting these vibrations into electrical signals that are interpreted through deep learning models for voice recognition without audible sound. This technology offers a contactless, automated alternative for users unable to produce conventional voice commands, enabling hands-free control of smart devices. The prototype, currently costing approximately Rs 3,000, is expected to become more affordable with industry collaboration. The research team plans to pursue clinical validation to facilitate real-world application of the device, which represents a novel approach to voice recognition by monitoring air-water interface disturbances generated by exhalation.

Government awards Rs 792 crore contract to upgrade PAN system as unified business ID under Section 139A
A government project to upgrade the permanent account number (PAN) system has been awarded to a technology consulting firm for over Rs 792 crore. The initiative, funded with Rs 1,435 crore by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, aims to establish PAN as a unified business identifier across government digital platforms. Scheduled to become operational within 18 months, the project seeks to streamline PAN and TAN processes, enhance service quality, accelerate delivery, and improve grievance mechanisms using advanced technology. It will manage PAN-related functions such as issuance, updates, Aadhaar linking, re-issuance, and online validation through a consolidated platform.

Companies must pay 0.1% stamp duty on share issuance under Article 19, Schedule I-A of Indian Stamp Act
The revenue department of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi has issued a directive mandating that all companies with registered offices in the NCT must pay stamp duty at a rate of 0.1% on the issuance of shares, as per Article 19 of Schedule I-A of the Indian Stamp Act, 1899. This duty applies to certificates or documents evidencing rights or titles to shares, whether in physical or digital form. The directive clarifies that the stamp duty rates under Schedule I do not apply within the NCT, reaffirming the state's authority under the Constitution to impose such duties. Companies are required to apply for adjudication of stamp duty within the prescribed timeframe, with non-compliance potentially resulting in penalties. This circular is issued for strict adherence by all concerned entities.

State Signs 41 MoUs Worth Rs 32,553 Crore to Boost Investment and Create 50,000 Jobs
A state government signed 41 memoranda of understanding totaling over Rs 32,553 crore at an investment conclave, aiming to attract significant investment and generate nearly 50,000 jobs. The agreements were formalized in the presence of top state officials. Additionally, four major projects with a combined investment of Rs 1,230 crore were inaugurated, expected to create approximately 3,100 jobs. These developments reflect the state's efforts to boost industrial growth and employment through substantial private sector commitments.

Major Business Event Showcases Integrated Software Solutions with 240+ Exhibitors and 20,000+ Attendees
An upcoming business event in India will showcase integrated software solutions across multiple sectors, featuring over 240 exhibitors and attracting more than 20,000 attendees. The event includes practical sessions on business management tools, live demonstrations of software deployments, and previews of new software features. It is designed for a wide range of participants including business owners, developers, consultants, and students. The event aims to facilitate direct interaction with software developers and industry leaders, promoting the adoption of efficient business systems. The event is scheduled for mid-August at a convention center in Gujarat and emphasizes practical business applications rather than being a traditional trade fair or conference.

Karnataka Forms Anti-Narcotic Task Force with 10 New Posts Under IT Act Section Powers
The Karnataka government has established an Anti-Narcotic Task Force (ANTF) to strengthen efforts against drug-related crimes, operating under the supervision of senior police officials and reporting to the Additional Director General of Police, Cyber Command. The unit includes 10 new posts and reallocates 56 personnel from the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF), supplemented by outsourced forensic, legal, and data analysis experts. Concurrently, 43 Cyber, Economic, and Narcotics police stations have been renamed as cyber crime police stations, now restricted to handling cybercrime cases under the IT Act, losing authority over narcotics and economic offenses. The ANTF's annual budget is approximately Rs 2.77 crore. The government has retained the ANF with reduced personnel, transferring some members to the ANTF and other units to address staffing needs. The task force will act on intelligence received and aims to eradicate narcotics issues statewide.

India's Tea Production Drops 9% in June Due to Weather and Pest Issues
Tea production in India decreased by 9 percent to 133.5 million kilograms in June compared to the previous year, according to official data. The decline was attributed to adverse weather and pest infestations. Production in North India fell to 112.51 million kilograms from 121.52 million kilograms, while South India's output dropped to 20.99 million kilograms from 25.20 million kilograms. Large-scale planters produced 55.21 million kilograms, down from 68.38 million kilograms, and small growers produced 68.28 million kilograms, a decrease from 78.34 million kilograms. The CTC variety accounted for 117.84 million kilograms, orthodox tea for 13.82 million kilograms, and green tea for 1.84 million kilograms.

Airline finds cockroaches on international flight, relocates passengers, cleans plane, and launches investigation under safety protocols
Passengers on an international flight reported the presence of small cockroaches onboard, prompting the airline to relocate affected passengers and conduct a deep cleaning during a scheduled stopover. The airline acknowledged the incident, attributing it to possible insect entry during ground operations despite regular fumigation, and announced a comprehensive investigation to identify the cause and prevent future occurrences. The airline issued an apology for the inconvenience caused.

Supreme Court upholds interim ban on political party using OTP messages citing privacy concerns under data protection rules
The Supreme Court declined to stay a Madras High Court interim injunction restraining a political party from using OTP verification messages in its enrolment campaign, citing concerns over data protection and privacy. The High Court had issued the injunction following a public interest litigation alleging unauthorized collection of personal and Aadhaar details. The Supreme Court emphasized the sensitivity of the issue and directed the party to approach the High Court for relief, noting the need to protect citizens' privacy rights. The party argued it was not collecting Aadhaar data and that the injunction was unwarranted, but the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal without interference.

Educational Institution Marks 25 Years with Inclusive Education Focus and Heritage Gallery Launch
An educational institution celebrated its 25th anniversary with a formal event featuring government officials, dignitaries, and community leaders. The ceremony included the release of commemorative items such as an anthem, flag, badge, postal cover, and a coffee table book, alongside a documentary highlighting the institution's development. Speeches emphasized the importance of inclusive education, skill development programs, and social outreach efforts. The event also featured a heritage walk showcasing the institution's historical milestones and contributions to higher education, followed by the inauguration of a heritage gallery. The institution's leadership expressed gratitude to attendees and reaffirmed its commitment to educational growth and equity.

Private University Ranks 7th Nationwide, 3rd in Practice-Integrated Multidisciplinary Education 2025
A private university in India has been ranked seventh among all state private universities and third among practice-integrated multi-disciplinary universities in a national ranking for 2025. The institution's academic model emphasizes experiential learning, research-led teaching, and industry collaboration, contributing to its rise in rankings. It offers diverse programs across business, technology, arts, architecture, law, and humanities, supported by extensive infrastructure and global partnerships. The rankings validate the university's focus on academic excellence, innovation, and preparing graduates for global environments. The university has also received recognition in various business school rankings and is noted for its strong industry connections and comprehensive educational approach.

Life Sciences Campus Achieves IFC EDGE Advanced Certification for Major Energy and Water Savings
A life sciences infrastructure platform's flagship campus in Hyderabad has received the IFC EDGE Advanced Certification, recognizing its significant energy savings of 44%, water savings of 79%, and use of low-carbon materials. This certification marks the campus as one of the most sustainable life sciences R&D facilities globally and the second speculative project worldwide to earn this distinction. The platform's other developments, including a large planned life sciences ecosystem in Mumbai, have also achieved or are pursuing similar green certifications. These achievements reflect the platform's commitment to integrating sustainability into its infrastructure, promoting climate resilience, operational efficiency, and global competitiveness in the life sciences sector. The platform is backed by a major global investment firm specializing in sustainable infrastructure.

Wildlife Crime Thriller Novel Highlights Tiger Conservation and Tribal Wisdom Amid Poaching Challenges
A wildlife crime thriller novel authored by a prominent conservationist and composer was launched by a government minister on Global Tiger Day. The novel, set against the backdrop of wildlife trafficking in India, features a tribal protagonist and highlights the challenges of tiger conservation amid human populations and poverty. The book has received endorsements from various officials and celebrities involved in environmental and wildlife protection, emphasizing its realistic portrayal of conservation issues and its potential to inspire future generations. The author's work extends beyond literature, including contributions to national wildlife projects and creation of a wildlife reserve. The novel aims to promote awareness of wildlife conservation through a narrative interwoven with true incidents, tribal wisdom, and environmental values.

India's 2024 Marine Fish Catch Drops 2% Due to Storms and Heatwaves, Coastal Regions Show Mixed Trends
India's marine fish catch declined by two percent in 2024 to 3.47 million tonnes, with Gujarat leading landings at 754,000 tonnes, followed by Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Key species such as Indian mackerel and oil sardine saw varied trends, with some species' catches decreasing and others increasing. The west coast experienced an overall decline, while the east coast showed growth, notably in Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha. Several states including Karnataka, Goa, and Daman & Diu faced significant reductions. The decline was attributed to cyclonic storms and increased heatwave days disrupting fishing activities. Kerala reported a marginal four percent decrease, with fluctuations in oil sardine landings causing price volatility. The report was based on monitoring approximately 250,000 fishing trips and highlighted differences in catch productivity among mechanised, motorised, and non-motorised vessels.

Asian stocks rise amid weak U.S. jobs data and looming tariffs, sparking rate cut speculation and market volatility
Asian stock markets mostly rose following a sharp decline on Wall Street after weak U.S. jobs data revealed significantly lower-than-expected employment growth and downward revisions to previous months. The U.S. president's announcement of broad tariffs on imports from multiple trading partners, set to take effect imminently, contributed to market uncertainty. The poor labor figures increased speculation that the Federal Reserve may cut interest rates soon, despite recent steady rates and inflation above target. Major U.S. indexes experienced notable losses, and key companies forecasted adverse impacts from tariffs. Concerns also arose over potential political interference in labor data reporting after the abrupt dismissal of the agency head responsible for employment statistics. The combination of trade tensions, weak economic indicators, and policy uncertainty has heightened volatility and complicated business planning for U.S. and global markets.

Foundation Launches Second Leadership and Mountaineering Program Empowering Young Girls with Skills and Confidence
A foundation has launched the second batch of a leadership and mountaineering program aimed at empowering young girls from grassroots communities in multiple states. The initiative provides rigorous training in mountaineering skills, survival techniques, and leadership development to selected participants. The program seeks to foster confidence, independence, and resilience, aligning with national campaigns promoting girls' education and empowerment. The foundation has expanded eligibility to include applicants from additional regions and emphasizes physical, mental, and emotional growth through structured challenges and mentorship. The initiative aims to break social barriers and equip young women with tools to overcome both physical and societal obstacles.