The Economic Times

Hyderabad: The Telangana government on Saturday launched the Telangana Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration, Social Security and Welfare) Rules, 2026, setting out 12 fundamental rights for gig and platform workers, including minimum remuneration, social security benefits, transparency in payments and protection against arbitrary account deactivation.Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who launched the Telangana Gig Workers Special Security Scheme along with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Hydera

Prochlorococcus, a small but abundant marine microbe, was thought to exist mainly as solitary cells. New research findings reveal that it can form biofilms and attach to particles. This discovery has implications for understanding the biological carbon pump in the oceans. While these microbes can switch between free-floating and attached forms, they contribute significantly to carbon transport. Scientists are further investigating the role of attached Prochlorococcus in marine ecosystems.

Once a beacon of luxury, West Baden Springs Hotel succumbed to neglect post-1932 closure. In 1996, its revival began when the Historic Landmarks Foundation acquired the site, collaborating with the Cook Group on restoration efforts. By May 2007, the hotel welcomed guests again after nearly 75 years, showcasing successful heritage preservation and community involvement that secures the site's lasting legacy.

Delhi's air quality stayed in the very poor bracket on Saturday, though the India Meteorological Department noted that upcoming rainfall could bring marginal relief over the next few days.The capital recorded a 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 367a slight dip from Friday's reading of 373keeping it firmly in the very poor range. Both the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) and the Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) for Delhi forecast modest improvements ahead, noting that PM2.5

After the passing of her husband, Nellie Mae Rowe ventured into the world of art in her late 60s, crafting imaginative pieces that transformed her home into a vibrant public 'Playhouse'. Despite facing vandalism from some locals, her unique artistry attracted many visitors. It was collector Judith Alexander who recognized her talent, leading to her work being displayed in prominent museums, illustrating her important legacy.

Back in 1999, engineers turned to an eco-friendly solution by inserting over three thousand recycled plastic pins into a hillslope along Interstate 70 in Emma to combat landslides. This innovative strategy not only stabilized the slope but also cut costs by 25%. Following its success, similar techniques have been adopted in states like Iowa and Texas, although environmental concerns regarding the plastic pins' longevity persist.

Since its transformation from farmland into a flourishing wetland began in 2000, Emiquon Preserve has seen extraordinary returns in wildlife, famously attracting over 119,000 waterbirds during the spring counts. Although the project has greatly enhanced wetland habitats and ecological recovery, vigilant management is required to combat threats from invasive species and to maintain aging infrastructures, underlining the importance of ongoing human efforts in environmental sustainability.

When President Donald Trump's administration convinced the US Supreme Court last year to restrict the ability of federal judges to block his actions nationwide - a major boost to his power - the ruling left untouched a separate tool that some of them have used to stymie presidential policies.Now Trump is taking aim at that tool as well in another challenge to judicial authority that could further insulate his far-reaching agenda against broad legal attacks.Also Read: Why US flights stopped: Agei

Negotiations are ongoing for a potential meeting of world leaders Trump, Xi, and Putin next week. These leaders have different priorities, leading to uncertainty about the meeting's agenda and outcomes. While Trump hopes to discuss nuclear arms control, Xi is more reticent about this topic. Smaller nations, including Ukraine and Taiwan, express concern over a possible private agreement among the major powers.

In Texas, engineers successfully used recycled plastic pins to stabilize highway slopes affected by unstable clay soils. The experiment demonstrated significant reductions in settlement and movement in treated areas compared to untreated sections. Monitoring after installation showed minimal additional movement in reinforced sections over 5 years. The results suggest that recycled plastic pins can effectively support shallow slope failures in problematic soils.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the need for increased troop presence along the China border. He highlighted the significant enhancements in infrastructure and military capabilities since the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020. Jaishankar noted that improving border infrastructure had been neglected until about a decade ago. The talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping marked a shift towards normalising relations.

A legal notice was issued by the Pakistan Markazi Muslim League to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz regarding her remarks. The party demanded an apology and the removal of disputed content from social media. This notice came after the controversial by-election in which the PMML claimed election rigging. PMML maintains its status as a legally registered political party in Pakistan.

A legal notice was issued by the Pakistan Markazi Muslim League to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz regarding her remarks. The party demanded an apology and the removal of disputed content from social media. This notice came after the controversial by-election in which the PMML claimed election rigging. PMML maintains its status as a legally registered political party in Pakistan.

Marco Rubio is drawing fresh attention as a potential Republican presidential candidate after the 2026 midterms. A Reuters/Ipsos poll gave Rubio and JD Vance similar ratings without asking voters to choose between them.

In an exciting turn of events, an intern at a New York film archive stumbled upon five reels of the silent film The Heart of Lincoln. This remarkable find, once thought to be forever lost, opens a new chapter for historians and filmmakers alike. Restoration efforts are now underway, promising modern audiences a glimpse into early American cinema and its portrayal of the iconic Abraham Lincoln.

A multipolar world order is emerging with increased competition and many autonomous decision-making countries. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the need for stronger national capacities in response to global changes. He highlighted India's past missed opportunities in manufacturing from the 1960s to the 1990s. Jaishankar noted that the US-China competition significantly contributes to global volatility and uncertainty.

New Delhi [India]: The government has opened the registration process for consent managers under the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, allowing eligible Indian companies with a minimum net worth of Rs 2 crore to apply for registration.According to an official release issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) on Saturday, the registration framework came into effect on November 13, 2026.The ministry said, Eligible Indian Companies Can Now Apply For R

In Maryland, conservationists created a floating island to provide nesting sites for common terns. This solution came as natural nesting areas were disappearing due to climate change effects. In the first breeding season, the platform hosted 23 nests, indicating immediate acceptance by the birds. As populations grew, common terns also began to establish nests on nearby restored habitats.

India and the US have nearly resolved issues regarding the proposed trade deal. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed hope that the agreement could soon be finalized. Negotiations have focused primarily on changes needed from the American side. The upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump may further progress the deal. Securing this trade pact would significantly benefit Indias economy in the large context.

India's consumption growth is projected to be robust, driven by a young population and digital adoption. Despite this, rural income pressures and food inflation could pose challenges for near-term demand. Premium products are expected to outperform mass-market categories as consumer preferences evolve. The impact of Super El Nino may exacerbate rural demand issues due to agricultural pressures. Companies must adapt to changing consumer dynamics and enhance operational efficiencies for success.

Four earthquakes occurred across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in a span of 11 hours. The earthquakes had magnitudes ranging from 2.9 to 3.9, with multiple tremors in Chenab Valley. Reports confirmed that there were no damages in the affected areas following the earthquakes. Tremors struck Kishtwar district and Doda district during early morning and midday hours. Leh experienced a significant earthquake as well, adding to the seismic activity.

Since the dismantling of several dams in 2006, Brewster Creek has experienced remarkable ecological transformation. The removal of barriers allowed fish species like smallmouth bass and quillback to flourish in the area, leading to a notable increase in overall fish diversity, with 14 new species discovered. Moreover, the ongoing research highlighted natural channel evolution and sedimentary stability, making Brewster Creek a pivotal reference for future ecological restoration initiatives.

Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi stated the US is in a strategic dead end due to Iran's resistance. He emphasized that Tehran's responses to aggression will be stronger than before and warned against miscalculations. Azizi noted the historical hostility from the US, including sanctions and military operations against Iran. Recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz involve claims of oil tankers striking naval mines.

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar affirmed the commitment to the Mekedatu balancing reservoir project across the Cauvery River. The project aims to support Bengaluru's drinking water needs and address water scarcity concerns. While Tamil Nadu opposes the project, Shivakumar emphasized the necessity of cooperation between the two states. He also discussed securing necessary clearances and proposed meetings to clarify its benefits to Tamil Nadu.

The Indian men's football team aims to rebound after their recent defeat against New Zealand. Head coach Khalid Jamil urged players to take responsibility for the outcome of the last match. Captain Anirudh Thapa emphasized the need for improved discipline and communication among team members. The upcoming match will be the first international fixture at One New Zealand Stadium.