The Times of India

Mumbai's air quality worsened significantly on Friday. The city's Air Quality Index jumped to 130, returning to the moderate category. Worli recorded the highest pollution levels. This deterioration was observed across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Experts attribute the change to wind direction and the 'valley effect' from skyscrapers.

A citizen-led air quality study in Wadala residential high-rises revealed alarming levels of industrial gases, with carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulphide significantly exceeding permissible limits. The research, conducted at elevated floors, also flagged consistent particulate pollution, raising concerns about residents' exposure to emissions.

Deported Bangladeshis are repeatedly returning to Mumbai, with Rabiya Nasir Mulla caught for a second time after being sent back last August. Police are concerned about border security, as many deported individuals allegedly bribe officials to re-enter. Over 1,200 illegal immigrants were detained statewide in the last two years.

A college dropout from Bihar, Anand Chaudhary, was arrested from IIT-Bombay's hostel premises for allegedly planting five live bullets in his childhood friend's bag. The discovery occurred during a room search following an altercation involving alcohol, leading to Chaudhary's booking under the Arms Act.

Elderly individuals living alone are finding new avenues of support, from digital platforms like Khyaal and GenS Life offering connection and assistance, to community initiatives such as Sathi and Adhata Trust fostering well-being and independence. These efforts combat loneliness and enhance self-care, enabling seniors to age with dignity and autonomy in familiar surroundings.

India's patent data reveals a concerning trend: higher education institutions are prioritizing patent filings over successful outcomes. While IITs and IISc show strong conversion rates, many private universities exhibit extremely low success rates, suggesting patents are being used for rankings rather than genuine innovation.

Powai police apprehended Anand Chaudhary, 23, at IIT-Powai. He allegedly kept five live cartridges in a BTech student's bag. Security officials discovered the bullets during a room check following a student dispute. Chaudhary had arrived from Bihar to meet his girlfriend. He was arrested and remanded in custody under the Arms Act. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive.

Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) has launched DigiYatra, nearly two months after commencing commercial operations. This integration allows for contactless and paperless passenger processing using facial recognition technology, aiming to reduce wait times. The inauguration was marked by passengers ceremonially using the DigiYatra e-gates.