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Smart glasses controversy sidelines the benefits for disabled people | Letter
Quote of the Day by Malcolm X: Malcolm X's life offers lessons on media influence and critical thinking. He urged questioning narratives and looking beyond surface-level information. His own evolving views highlight the importance of reconsidering beliefs. This timeless advice applies to all information sources we encounter. Thinking independently guards against manipulation and fosters thoughtful decisions.
Quote of the day by Stan Laurel: Stan Laurel believed comedy's essence remained elusive and undefined. He learned to elicit laughter by observing audience reactions carefully. This practical approach highlights experience over theoretical definitions for success. Laurel, part of the famous Laurel and Hardy duo, achieved cinematic fame.
People who recharge their phones before the battery gets critically low aren't necessarily fixated on battery percentages. They may simply prefer having a safety margin, knowing they have enough power available if they need it later.
Four people dead after inhaling toxic gas in Bihar's Gaya Ji, govt announces financial assistance
Four people, including a man and his son, died on Friday allegedly of asphyxiation after inhaling toxic gas while repairing a motor inside a well in Bihar's Gaya Ji district. The incident was reported at Garh Karmauni village in Dobhi police station area of the district. The deceased have been identified as Chamari Manjhi, his son Dilchand Manjhi, Vikas Chaudhary and Vijay Chaudhary.
Always finishing a glass may reflect a small example of a broader human tendency to prefer actions that have a clear sense of completion. However, this behavior alone doesn't mean that someone necessarily has a high need for closure.
What do people in Clacton think of Farage's by-election win?
The Reform leader wins the by-election he triggered, and gains more votes than last time.
People aged 18-29: tell us about your most extraordinary thrifted finds
DMK organising secretary RS Bharathis remarks at a public meeting held in Karambakkam to mark the death anniversary of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi have triggered controversy, with Bharathi making strong comments about voters, election setbacks and the partys approach towards the public. Speaking at the meeting, Bharathi recalled how Karunanidhi had responded [] The post Those People Wont Die A Good Death: DMKs RS Bharathi Curses Saidapet Voters After Ma. Subramanians Defeat appeared first on The Commune .
Mangaluru corporation urges people to celebrate plastic-free Nagara Panchami
The civic body urges people to abandon plastic and instead go for natural products, including cloth bags and steel containers
A group of researchers undertook a unique crocodile experiment to investigate arousal's effects on gambling behavior. Contrary to expectations, they found that increased arousal did not lead to raised bets across the board. Instead, recreational gamblers opted to lower their stakes, while at-risk gamblers showed mixed responses based on their emotional well-being. This study brought to light the intricate dynamics at play in electronic gaming machine interactions.
How 3 People Across Borders Turned Partition Memories Into Window Of Empathy
The three acknowledge the emotional weight of the work; many of the survivors they interviewed have since died, yet what remains is a sense of fulfilment.
200 people attack cops with stones, free arrested criminal in Bihar
people attack cops with stones free arrested criminal in Bihar
Nagoro, a remote Japanese village that has lost about 90% of its residents, has found an eerie way to preserve its vanished community. Since the early 2000s, artist Tsukimi Ayano has created more than 350 life-size dolls modelled on people who died or moved away, filling the village with their likenesses.
A Mexican proverb warns against people approaching others only when they need something. Genuine relationships endure difficult times and do not depend on personal gain. Success can attract attention, but true friends remain without obvious benefits. The saying encourages observing consistency in relationships over time. This insight helps people understand who values them and what they provide.
Police arrest five people printing fake Rs 500 notes out of a private bungalow in Maharashtra
Police busted a counterfeit currency unit in Nashik, arresting five alleged gang members. Specialized chemicals were allegedly used to manufacture fake Rs 500 notes. Authorities seized genuine currency and printing equipment valued at Rs 12.2 lakh. The interstate group included suspects from Telangana and local Nashik residents. Investigations are ongoing into the gang's distribution network and operations.
'Don't you want people to be healthy?': SC slams FSSAI
The top court was hearing a PIL of public charitable trust 3S and Our Health Society seeking directions to the Centre, states and Union territories to implement mandatory front-of-package warning labels (FOPL) on packaged foods.
Manipur observed Patriots' Day, honoring heroes of the 1891 Anglo-Manipur War. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla urged preserving history and strengthening community unity. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also paid homage to fallen patriots. The day celebrated sacrifices and inspired future generations toward progress. Police medals for gallantry and devotion to duty were also announced.
'Unprecedented' rains in Japan kill four people
The storm cut power to more than 20,000 households and left 7,000 people stranded at Tokyo's Narita airport.
Quote of the day by Hannah Arendt: Hannah Arendt, renowned for her significant contributions to 20th-century philosophy, dissected the 'banality of evil', suggesting that ordinary individuals can engage in heinous acts devoid of malicious intent. Her analysis traversed totalitarian regimes, urging the necessity of critical thought and ethical decision-making. Arendts insights inspire a continuous dialogue about questioning authority and recognizing individual accountability, cementing her legacy as a beacon of independent thought in modern society.
Before saying yes to a relationship, people are quietly checking these 5 things
Muzani highlights education and cooperatives for the people
'People rebuilt their lives from nothing': PM Modi remembers Partition victims, calls for harmony
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tributes to the victims of the Partition of India, remembering their courage and resilience on the occasion of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.
Why a wild mushroom in China is known for making people hallucinate tiny humans
A sought-after wild mushroom found across Southwest China has gained an unusual reputation for causing vivid hallucinations when eaten raw or improperly prepared. Consumers have reportedly described seeing tiny people running across tables, climbing furniture
Psychology says people who struggle to ask for help aren't always independent, they may fear...
Psychology says people who struggle to ask for help arent always independent they may fear
Vertex Group to hire 2,000 people in Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru this month
The recruitment drive comes as businesses expand customer-facing operations, creating fresh opportunities across several functions within the services sector.
El Nino is a phenomenon that occurs naturally, when weakening trade winds cause warmer ocean waters to build up in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. This typically leads to higher global temperatures and altered weather patterns, bringing drought to some regions and heavy rainfall to others.
Unemployed young people to join AI boot camps to get job-ready
Ronaldo and Georginas secret wedding had just 5 people present with Zero outside guests
Jharkhand stir: FIR against 300 unnamed people over August 10 march
Following a student-led protest on August 10 near the Jharkhand assembly, police filed an FIR against approximately 300 unidentified individuals. This action was prompted by allegations of breaching prohibitory orders, damaging government property, and assaulting officers. The official report was initiated based on a complaint from a magistrate, highlighting concerns over public safety during the demonstration.
Documents of Unsuspecting People Used for GST Fraud, ITC Claims
Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details of people are obtained by paying them amounts between 10,000 and 20,000 for GST registrations.
Passenger train derails and 11 people injured after carriages overturn in southern England
A passenger train derailed in southern England, injuring eleven people. Three carriages overturned on the Southern Rail service from London to Eastbourne. Passengers described the train rocking violently before it jumped and brakes engaged. Aerial footage showed emergency services treating injured individuals in a field. The cause of the derailment is currently under investigation by authorities.
Sumit Sarkar, historian who made history speak for people, passes away
Fraudsters use AI to create fake websites of 126 religious sites, dupe 21,985 people
Fraudsters use AI to create fake websites of religious sites dupe people
Keeping a wallet in the same place every time may have less to do with a deliberate preference and more to do with the brain learning a familiar cue-and-response pattern. Instead of repeatedly deciding where to put it, a person develops a consistent routine that makes the behavior automatic and reduces the need for conscious effort.
FIR against 500 unidentified people over violence during JPSC-JSSC aspirants assembly gherao
The Supreme Court has strongly criticized the government and FSSAI for delaying warning labels. These labels are intended for packaged foods high in sugar, salt, and fat. The court emphasized protecting citizens' health, especially that of children. It questioned the Union's reluctance and potential corporate pressure influencing decisions. The government has been given two weeks to finalize its decision on the matter.
Sometimes, we are to blame for all of our own suffering. Russian literary master Fyodor Dostoevsky once shared a bitter truth that, a lot of times, people are to blame for the misery in their lives.
Hakki-Pikki people detained in Ivory Coast released, says forum
For someone who has found a product that consistently meets their needs, purchasing another one can feel like preserving a familiar and dependable experience. The duplicate may provide a sense of security, reducing uncertainty and protecting against unexpected changes or the possibility of losing access to something that already works.
'You don't want people to remain healthy?': Supreme Court warns FSSAI over food warning labels
The Supreme Court gave FSSAI two weeks to take a final call on front-of-pack warning labels for packaged foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fat, amid concerns over corporate pressure and public health.
Quote of the Day: Jim Carreys thought-provoking quote of the day Solitude is dangerous. Its very addictive. It becomes a habit after you realise how peaceful and calm it is. Its like you dont want to deal with people anymore because they drain your energy explores the unexpected comfort of solitude and why spending time alone can become addictive once a person discovers how peaceful and calm it feels.
Kangana Ranaut calls Jantar Mantar protesters 'Shabana Azmi-type people'
Kangana Ranaut calls Jantar Mantar protesters Shabana Azmitype people
Psychology says people who touch products before buying them may process ownership differently
It would be a mistake to assume that this behavior automatically means someone is materialistic or impulsive. Some people touch products simply because they want more sensory information before making a decision. Others may have a strongerneed for touch, a consumer trait linked to a preference for gathering information through direct tactile experience.
Jharkhand Exam Row: FIR Against 300 Unnamed People Over Assembly March
The case was registered for violating prohibitory orders, causing damage to government property and attacking police personnel.
Psychology suggests that repeated sensory experiences can become linked to feelings of comfort, familiarity, and expectations about what will happen next. However, this kind of behavior does not automatically indicate anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or a sensory-processing condition.
Sir Martin Sorrell said the key skill in the AI era could be sharing knowledge, echoing Bill Gates long-held belief that information gains power when it is shared. Sorrell argues AI will democratize knowledge, flatten corporate hierarchies and reward people who openly share what they know, while also making businesses more efficient and potentially bringing John Maynard Keynes 15-hour workweek closer to reality.
Closing a browser tab can feel surprisingly symbolic because it involves a small act of letting go: deciding that something no longer needs your immediate attention. For some people, finally clearing those tabs can therefore bring a noticeable sense of relief, order, and mental space.
For some people, washing, touching, organizing, or otherwise preparing a new possession can create a stronger sense that the item truly belongs to them. This relates topsychological ownership, a sense of possession that can develop even without formal or legal ownership.
Jharkhand exam stir: FIR against 300 unnamed people in connection with August 10 march to Assembly
A senior officer said the case was registered against the unnamed people for violating prohibitory orders, causing damage to government property and attacking police personnel
Did you know the kitchen staple of today was once a boycotted fruit that people feared eating for two centuries? Tomatoes have an interesting history that most of us dont know about. Read this article to learn more.
Kangana says Jantar Mantar student protests had Shabana Azmi-type people
Kangana Ranaut clarified her Generation Gutter remark, saying she never targeted the entire Gen-Z generation. She claimed only 2,000 Gen-Z people were at Jantar Mantar, while many others, including Shabana Azmi-type people, were present
Survey finds widespread harassment, discrimination among LGBTQIA+ people in Arunachal
Guwahati: An online survey in Arunachal Pradesh has found that many LGBTQIA+ people face harassment, hide their identities and have limited trust in institutions meant to protect them, The New Indian Express reported. The study was carried out anonymously by the HimKai Research Initiative (HRI) from June 2 to August 2, 2026. Its report, titled [] The post Survey finds widespread harassment, discrimination among LGBTQIA+ people in Arunachal appeared first on NorthEast Now .
A leading heart surgeon reveals five essential habits to avert heart attacks. Key practices include steering clear of smoking, regulating high blood pressure, and keeping cholesterol levels in check. Additionally, reducing sugar consumption is crucial for avoiding insulin resistance and stabilizing blood sugar. Building strong social ties fights loneliness, a serious risk for heart health. Adhering to these guidelines greatly enhances one's heart health prospects.
Protests erupt in Balochistan after reported Pakistani airstrike kills over people
Protests erupted in Surab after a Pakistani military airstrike killed over twenty people. The aerial attack reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children. Local residents transported the injured and deceased to the District Headquarters Hospital. Relatives placed bodies on the N-25 highway, initiating a sit-in protest. The incident drew condemnation from political and civil society organizations.
'Many People Can't Digest Truth': Harbhajan Gives Blunt Verdict On Gambhir
Harbhajan Singh is perplexed by the constant criticism Gautam Gambhir has drawn since taking over as head coach but acknowledges that not everyone will find his former teammate's style of elling the...
'Many People Can't Digest Truth': Harbhajan Singh Gives Blunt Verdict On Gautam Gambhir
Harbhajan Singh is perplexed by the constant criticism Gautam Gambhir has drawn since taking over as head coach but acknowledges that not everyone will find his former teammate's style of elling the bitter truths palatable.
TNI, Police service to public always remembered by people: Prabowo
President Prabowo reaffirms state support for people in remote areas
The second season of The Traitors has started with high drama, unexpected eliminations and accusations among the contestants. Hosted by Karan Johar, the reality show returned with its first three episodes, introducing viewers to a game filled with suspicion and betrayal. Comedian Munawar Faruqui became one of the biggest talking points after he was eliminated during the first Circle of Shaq. During the first round, Munawar openly accused Mallika Sherawat of being a traitor. However, his strategy raised suspicions among several contestants, who felt that he was behaving like a traitor himself. As the voting began, Munawar received the highest number of votes and was eliminated from the game. The actual traitors at that point were Kullu, Krystle DSouza and Harman Singha, while Shahneel Gill was later recruited as the fourth traitor in the second episode. After his elimination, Munawar addressed the contestants and said that he had expected to be targeted. He said, I had expected this to happen to me. I knew I would have to face it. This often happens to me. It is not the first time. This is not the first time that I have been targeted. He further accused the contestants of acting out of insecurity, adding, Call me a soft target or someone too good to be there. I can clearly see through the insecurities of other people, and you will see how end up looking. Because your insecurities will be visible. When Karan Johar asked Munawar to reveal whether he was a traitor or an innocent, the comedian appeared emotional and strongly reacted. F*** off, guys! I was playing the game! I wanted to play it well! I am an innocent! F*** off, insecure bunch of people. They thought I would eat them up here. They are all scared. Now recognise who is the one amongst you, he said. Meanwhile, Dalip Tahil became the first contestant to leave the game after receiving the least number of gold coins, while Karan Singh Magic became the first contestant to be murdered by the traitors. The Traitors Season 2 is streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Also Read : Samay Raina roasts Munawar Faruquis second marriage by comparing him with Aamir Khan: Aamir sir jaise game toh Munawar ne khela hai
Come, celebrate Independence Day with enthusiasm: Div Com Kashmir invites people to Bakshi Stadium
Srinagar, Aug 13: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Thursday invited people from across Kashmir to attend the Union Territory-level Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar and celebrate the occasion with a lot of enthusiasm. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar Garg said all arrangements for the August 15 event had been finalised, with parade contingents, schoolchildren and various departments participating in the rehearsal. I would like to congratulate all the people of Kashmir and the citizens of Srinagar on the occasion of Independence Day in advance. I would also like to invite everyone to come to Bakshi Stadium on August 15 and be a part of this national event, he said, as per the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO). He said people could attend Independence Day celebrations at their respective district or regional headquarters, while those wishing to participate in the UT-level function at Bakshi Stadium were welcome to do so. My appeal to all of you is that on August 15, we will celebrate this with a lot of enthusiasm, Garg said. On entry arrangements, the Divisional Commissioner said there would be free entry for the public at Bakshi Stadium, as in previous years. He added that detailed arrangements had been made to facilitate visitors and ensure basic amenities, including drinking water, toilet facilities and refreshments, at the venue. Garg said security arrangements had also been put in place in coordination with various security agencies, with regular reviews being conducted ahead of the national event. Coordination meetings have been held with the security agencies and at the level of IG, the reviews are constantly going on, he said. Meanwhile, the full dress rehearsal was held at Bakshi Stadium to give a final run-through of preparations for the main Independence Day programme. The rehearsal involved various departments, parade contingents and schoolchildren who will participate in the August 15 celebrations.(KNO)
10 most hated foods in the world and why people cant stand them
Come, celebrate I-Day with enthusiasm: Div Com Kashmir invites people to Bakshi Stadium
Srinaga: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Thursday invited people from across Kashmir to attend the Union Territory-level Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar and celebrate the occasion with a lot of enthusiasm. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of full dress rehearsal at Bakshi Stadium, Garg said all arrangements for the August 15 []
Skipping Rice To Avoid Diabetes? Debunking The Common Myth People Still Believe
For many Indians, rice has become a fear food, particularly among individuals who wish to lose weight and prevent diabetes. People generally believe that staying away from rice completely would help keep diabetes at bay. However, according to doctors and dieticians,
Quote of the day by Hilary Duff offers a simple but powerful reminder about personal freedom. Other people will form opinions, make assumptions and interpret our choices through their own experiences. We cannot control all of that, and trying to do so can distract us from the life directly in front of us. What we can control is how thoughtfully we respond, whose advice we value, which criticism we learn from and which judgments we leave behind.
Over 1.56 lakh people treated for drug addiction in J&K since 2021
Year-wise drug addiction treatment cases in J&K Financial year Persons treated 2021-22 5,382 2022-23 27,843 2023-24 36,588 2024-25 40,546 2025-26 46,491 Total 1,56,850 Source: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, as tabled in the Rajya Sabha. Srinagar, Aug 12: More people in Jammu and Kashmir are coming forward for drug addiction treatment, with the number of persons treated at government-supported centres rising from 5,382 in 2021-22 to 46,491 in 2025-26, the Centre told the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The figures were shared by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in response to an unstarred question by MP Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo on the assessment and prevention of substance abuse in Jammu and Kashmir. According to the ministry's data, 27,843 persons were treated in 2022-23, followed by 36,588 in 2023-24 and 40,546 in 2024-25. The number reached 46,491 in 2025-26. Since 2021-22, government-supported centres have reported 1,56,850 treatment cases across the Union Territory. Jammu reported the highest number of treatment cases during the period, followed by Srinagar, Kulgam, Bandipora and Rajouri. The ministry also referred to the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India, conducted by the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), AIIMS, in 2018. The survey had estimated opioid use in J&K at 4.91 per cent among people aged 10 to 75, followed by alcohol at 3.50 per cent. The government said treatment and rehabilitation services in J&K are being supported under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR). At present, the department supports one Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts, three Outreach and Drop-In Centres, two Community-based Peer Led Intervention programmes, six District De-Addiction Centres and 21 Addiction Treatment Facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. The government has also been implementing the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan across the Union Territory. According to the ministry, 8,565 Nasha Mukti Mitra volunteers have joined the campaign in J&K. The campaign has so far reached more than 1.20 crore people in J&K, including over 69 lakh youth and 51 lakh women, the ministry said. The increase in treatment numbers indicates a rise in the number of people accessing government-supported treatment services, but the figures do not by themselves establish an eight-fold increase in the prevalence of drug addiction in Jammu and Kashmir. Year-wise drug addiction treatment cases in J&K
2 people died in military helicopter crash near Fort Hood, officials say
Officials say an Army Apache attack helicopter crashed in a central Texas field, killing both people on board and sparking a wildfire that forced several homes to be evacuated
US government charges 11 people in scheme to obtain green cards through sham marriages
The Department of Justice has charged nearly a dozen people with participating in a multimillion-dollar scheme to help hundreds of Chinese nationals fraudulently obtain green cards through sham marriages to U.S. citizens
People who genuinely enjoy spending time alone are not necessarily introverts, psychologists say. Research suggests that a preference for solitude may instead be linked to a strong sense of autonomy, where people feel comfortable making their own choices, following their interests and spending time without needing constant social approval. For some, alone time can also help them process emotions, think clearly and recover from overstimulation. The key difference is that chosen solitude can feel peaceful and fulfilling, while loneliness is usually linked to wanting connection but not having it.
Thousands of people take part in Tiranga Yatra organised under Har Ghar Tiranga
To prevent sins like RG Kar rape-murder, people should be taught Gita: Suvendu
Psychology says people who decorate their car's interior with soft toys, cushions, lights and others aren't necessarily trying to attract attention or show their financial status. The behavior can reflect a need for comfort, personal identity, emotional regulation and security. A decorated car can become a familiar space that helps a person manage stress during traffic, long commutes and daily travel.
Jagan asks YSRCP legislators to raise peoples issues, expose govt.s failures in Assembly
Stating that he will raise issues through the media, the YSRCP chief accuses the government of denying the principal opposition party the Leader of Opposition status to gag its voice
Quote of the Day by Cary Grant: Cary Grants quote, When people tell you how young you look, they are also telling you how old you are, explores the relationship between age, appearance, and the way people perceive aging. The quote suggests that compliments about looking younger can also indirectly reveal how noticeable a persons age has become, offering a humorous perspective on growing older, self-image, and societys fascination with youth.
Millions of people in Iceland and Spain set for 'event of the century' eclipse
Authorities were expecting up to 6 million visitors in mostly rural areas within the eclipses path across the north of Spain and the Balearic Islands, says Spains Secretary of State for Science
Good news, false expectations? How people assess potential returns in the stock market
A study involving the Cluster of Excellence ECONtribute at the Universities of Bonn and Cologne demonstrates that not only retail investors but also financial professionals often assess potential stock market returns differently from what standard financial economics models predict. This is due to differing ideas about how company news affects future stock returns. The study, titled
10 Common Mistakes People Make When Using Essential Oils
Do you use essential oils? If yes, do you know the right way to use them? We asked an expert to tell us some common mistakes that people make when using essential oils.
Psychology says people often enjoy the first bite differently from the last bite
The final bite can carry psychological significance because it marks the end of the eating experience. Thepeak-end rulesuggests that endings can disproportionately influence how people remember an experience, although the original research was not specifically about food.
At 17, Natalia Kleinrichert turned her childhood health struggles into a mission to help people experiencing homelessness in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Through her R.E.A.C.H. initiative, she raised $6,800 and distributed 100 blessing bags while continuing to collect food, toiletries and essential supplies.
Psychology says why people sometimes feel sad after returning from a great trip
A memorable trip can temporarily broaden your sense of what life can look and feel like. When you return home, familiar routines may seem less exciting or even somewhat limiting for a while. That feeling doesn't necessarily mean you need to quit your job, move abroad, or immediately plan another getaway. Sometimes, it simply reflects the contrast between an enriching experience and the comfort of everyday life.
Accusing the BJP of being involved in exam mafia across the country, the Congress said the BJP was opposing the CID probe into paper leaks in the state, fearing that it would get exposed
46,491 people treated for drug addiction in J&K in 2025-26: Rajya Sabha told
Srinagar, Aug 12: The number of people treated for drug addiction at centres supported by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir rose to 46,491 in 2025-26, the highest annual figure recorded in the last five years, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The number marks a sharp increase from 5,382 in 2021-22, while 27,843 people were treated in 2022-23, 40,546 in 2023-24 and 36,588 in 2024-25. The data were provided in response to a Rajya Sabha question on the prevalence of substance abuse, treatment facilities and measures to strengthen prevention and rehabilitation services in JK. Jammu recorded the highest number of treatments in 2025-26 at 9,960, followed by Srinagar with 6,204, Bandipore 5,769, Kulgam 5,765 and Rajouri 5,561. Kupwara recorded 4,530 cases, while Pulwama accounted for 3,433 and Budgam 2,693. The Union Government said its 2018 National Survey on the extent and pattern of substance use, conducted through the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre at AIIMS, estimated that 5.4 lakh people in JK were opioid users, representing a prevalence of 4.91 per cent among the 10-75 age group. The survey also estimated 3.9 lakh alcohol users, 1.4 lakh cannabis users, 1.7 lakh sedative users and 1.35 lakh inhalant users in JK. At present, the Ministry is supporting one Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts, three Outreach and Drop In Centres, two Community-based Peer Led Intervention programmes, six District De-Addiction Centres and 21 Addiction Treatment Facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Government said these facilities are being supported under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), which provides financial assistance for prevention, awareness, treatment, rehabilitation and capacity-building. The Centre also operates the 14446 de-addiction helpline, which has received more than 4.6 lakh calls nationally, including over 11,000 calls from Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, more than 1.20 crore people in JK have so far been sensitised, including over 69.14 lakh youth and 51.20 lakh women. The campaign has also enrolled 8,565 Nasha Mukti Mitrs in the Union Territory. The Government said the campaign, launched nationally in 2020 and extended to all districts in 2023, focuses on awareness and outreach in schools, higher educational institutions and university campuses, besides other community-level interventions.
Southern Water wants a rare water ban, says 165,000 people could be at risk
Southern Water says supplies to 165,000 people could be compromised if dry weather continues. A rare ban could stop businesses filling pools, washing vehicles and watering gardens. The River Test is under pressure as customer demand has climbed to more than 660 million litres a day. Southern Water has asked the government for permission to impose a rare non-essential use ban in parts of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, warning that 165,000 people around Southampton and Eastleigh could face water shortages if dry conditions continue. The proposed Southern Water drought order would go beyond the hosepipe restrictions already affecting millions of people. If approved and brought into force, businesses could be stopped from washing vehicles, cleaning windows and watering outdoor gardens, while filling and maintaining non-domestic swimming pools could also be restricted. The application is being treated as a precautionary measure rather than an immediate warning that taps are about to run dry. But Southern Water says the situation could become serious if rainfall remains low and demand does not ease. Environment Secretary Angela Eagle has 28 days to decide whether to approve or reject the request. The scale of the proposed restrictions reflects the pressure on the region's water system. Southern Water normally supplies around 550 million to 560 million litres of water a day, but demand has risen above 660 million litres during the run of hot weather. At the same time, flows in the River Test, a rare chalk stream that plays a central role in supplying Southampton and the Isle of Wight, have fallen to around half their usual levels or lower at some monitoring points. That leaves Southern Water with a difficult balancing act. It needs to take enough water from the river to supply customers, while also meeting environmental requirements designed to protect the Test. Since 2018, the company has been required by the Environment Agency to maintain higher flows in the river to protect its environment. Southern Water says that if restrictions on abstraction from the Test are reached, one of its service reservoirs could provide supplies for only a day or two before parts of the network begin to struggle. In its application, the company reportedly warned that the Southampton West supply area could then be significantly affected by a restricted water supply, potentially leaving some customers without water from their taps. A ban that goes beyond the hosepipe The proposed restrictions would mark a significant escalation from the temporary use bans already introduced across parts of the country. A temporary use ban, commonly known as a hosepipe ban, generally targets household activities such as watering gardens or washing cars. A non-essential use ban can go further by restricting certain commercial and business uses of water. That could put swimming pools, car dealers, window cleaners and other businesses in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight under pressure if the order is approved and implemented. Such bans are unusual. The last one was imposed in 2006, with the previous example dating back to 1996. The wider water situation has already been deteriorating. Government drought reports have recorded falling river flows and declining reservoir storage, while almost 40 per cent of England's population was facing water-use restrictions by late July. Southern Water itself introduced a temporary use ban covering Hampshire and the Isle of Wight from July 10. The company had also sought a similar non-essential use ban during the previous drought, but rainfall eventually meant it was not needed. The company has stressed that applying for the order does not mean it will necessarily be used. It says the approval process takes time and that it needs to have options available if exceptionally dry conditions persist. No other water company has so far sought a restriction of the same scale, according to reports. The government is also keeping the decision under review. A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesman reportedly said ministers were working with the Environment Agency, water companies, farmers and environmental groups to protect supplies while limiting damage to nature. Britain is running out of room for hot, dry weather The pressure on Southern Water comes as the UK heads towards what could become another record-breaking summer. Met Office figures show the average UK temperature for the summer so far has reached 16.48C, compared with 16.12C for last summer, which currently holds the record. The Met Office said on August 11 that only average temperatures for the rest of August would be needed for 2026 to overtake last year's record. Five heatwaves have already pushed up demand for water, while prolonged dry conditions have put rivers, reservoirs and agriculture under additional pressure. For Southern Water, the immediate concern is the gap between how much water customers are using and how much can safely be taken from the River Test. If rain returns, the proposed restrictions may never come into force. If the dry spell continues, however, the government could be faced with an unusual choice: place tighter limits on businesses now, or risk allowing water supplies in parts of Hampshire to come under greater strain later. For the 165,000 people identified by Southern Water, that distinction could become increasingly important as the summer progresses.
46,491 People Treated for Drug Addiction in Jammu Kashmir in 2025-26, Rajya Sabha Told
SRINAGAR: The number of people treated for drug addiction at centres supported by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir rose to 46,491 in 2025-26, the highest annual figure recorded in the last five years, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The number marks a sharp []
Reservoir raises $8M to make water heaters that people
Reservoir has built an ultra-efficient water heater that can predict hot water demand, store energy, and detect plumbing leaks throughout a home.
4 billion people, not more: Why Elon Musk may be wrong on population
4 billion people, not more: Why Elon Musk may be wrong on population
