An assistant professor from Assam, Dr. Atanu Nath of Tihu College, has been named among the winners of the prestigious 2026 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, often called the “Oscars of Science.” He is part of the international Fermilab Muon g−2 collaboration, which includes 376 scientists from global institutions. The team was recognised for its groundbreaking research on the muon’s magnetic properties, carried out at CERN, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Fermilab. The award highlights decades of precision experiments that deepen understanding of particle physics beyond the Standard Model. Dr. Nath’s achievement brings pride to Assam and India, marking a significant global recognition of Indian participation in cutting-edge scientific research. 

A complaint has been filed against a woman who confronted Maharashtra BJP minister Girish Mahajan during a party rally in Mumbai’s Worli area over severe traffic congestion. The woman, visibly angry at being stuck for over an hour, questioned the minister and police over road blockages caused by the rally. The complaint, lodged by Zen Sadavarte, alleges that she used abusive language, obstructed public servants, and disrupted law-and-order management. However, Mumbai Police have clarified that no FIR has been registered against the woman so far. The minister also acknowledged that her frustration was partly justified but criticised her language. The incident has triggered political debate over public inconvenience during rallies and the balance between protest rights and civic order. 

At least three people were killed in fresh violence in Manipur’s Ukhrul district after gunfights broke out between armed groups linked to the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities. According to police reports, the clashes occurred in two separate incidents early Friday, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries in nearby villages. The violence marks a new escalation in long-standing ethnic tensions in the region, which has witnessed repeated cycles of retaliation and armed confrontation. Security forces have been deployed and investigations are underway, while authorities remain on high alert to prevent further outbreaks of violence in the sensitive hill district. (PC: PTI)

A young woman, daughter of an IRS officer, was found dead at her residence in Delhi’s Kailash Hills, sparking widespread concern. Police have arrested Rahul Meena, a former domestic worker, in connection with the case. Investigators say the accused was familiar with the house and may have used prior access to enter the premises. Initial findings indicate possible theft, as valuables were reported missing. Authorities are examining multiple angles, including motive and sequence of events, while awaiting forensic reports. The incident has raised fresh concerns about household security and background checks for domestic staff in urban areas. (PC: HT)

Mumbai Police has confirmed that no FIR has been registered against a woman who confronted Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan during a BJP rally in Mumbai’s Worli area. The incident, triggered by severe traffic congestion caused by the protest march, went viral on social media. Officials stated that while a complaint was filed by a law student alleging abusive behaviour, no formal case has been initiated. Mumbai Police also urged the public to avoid misinformation. The episode has sparked wider debate over political rallies disrupting daily life and citizens’ right to protest inconvenience. (PC: X)

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revoked the banking licence of Paytm Payments Bank, effective April 24, 2026, ending its ability to operate as a bank. The action, taken under the Banking Regulation Act, follows prolonged regulatory concerns including lapses in customer due diligence, governance, and compliance. RBI said the bank’s operations were not in the interest of depositors and will now approach the High Court to initiate winding-up proceedings.  Existing customers can withdraw deposits, as the bank has sufficient liquidity to meet obligations. The move marks a major crackdown in India’s fintech sector and signals stricter regulatory enforcement. (PC: The Times of India)

NDTV recently introduced a unique mental health initiative by inviting a therapy dog named Oscar as its “Chief Bark Officer” for a day. The visit aimed to help employees cope with stress from hectic newsroom routines, including constant deadlines and back-to-back meetings. Oscar interacted with staff, offering comfort through simple gestures like companionship and play. The initiative underscored the importance of workplace well-being and taking breaks when overwhelmed. Employees described the experience as refreshing and uplifting, reinforcing the growing trend of incorporating pet therapy in corporate environments to improve morale, reduce stress, and boost overall productivity.

India is tightening rules in tiger reserves to limit tourist behaviour and protect wildlife. A 2025 order by the Supreme Court of India restricts mobile phone use in core safari zones. Visitors must keep phones away or on silent. The move follows rising cases of “safari jams” and unsafe actions near animals in parks like Ranthambore National Park. Experts say phones increase crowding and risky behaviour. “People have got reckless in getting photos,” said journalist Charukesi Ramadurai. Officials say the focus is now on conservation, even if sightings become less frequent. (PC: BBC)

The crisis in West Asia and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz will be key issues at India’s Heads of Mission conference in New Delhi next week. Narendra Modi will address envoys on April 30. Officials said the meeting will review economic and security impacts of the conflict. S Jaishankar and Ajit Doval will also speak. The blockade has slowed oil and cargo movement through the route. “Focus will be on global shifts and regional impact,” a source said. Diplomats will discuss India’s strategy and outreach. (PC: HT)

In the Delhi IRS officer’s daughter murder case, police said the accused entered the victim’s room by climbing a wall and breaking the roof in New Delhi. He first knocked and claimed her father had sent something. When she did not open, he entered through the bathroom. Police said he demanded money and tried to stop her from calling for help. “She resisted and fought back,” a source said, adding she bit him during the assault. He later dragged her to another room and tried to open a locker. The accused has been arrested. Probe is ongoing. (PC: The Indian Express)