Sirish Subash, a ninth-grader from Snellville, Georgia, has been named "America's Top Young Scientist" after winning the 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Subash earned the title and a $25,000 prize for inventing PestiSCAND, a device using AI and spectrophotometry to detect pesticide residues on produce. Addressing a critical food safety issue, PestiSCAND scans for harmful chemicals, ensuring consumer safety. Subash's innovative solution impressed judges, securing his spot among the nation's most promising young scientists.

Heavy rains in Spain’s Valencia region have caused deadly floods, leaving at least 95 people dead and towns in ruin. In just eight hours, areas like Utiel and Chiva saw a year’s worth of rain, causing the Magro River to overflow and sweep away cars, debris, and trash through the streets. Many residents were trapped in their homes, with some elderly people unable to escape. “We were trapped like rats,” said Utiel’s mayor, Ricardo Gabaldón. Spain’s government has deployed military units to assist with rescue efforts and declared three days of national mourning. Officials say these intense storms are worsened by climate change.

The Taliban in Afghanistan have issued a new rule prohibiting women from allowing their voices to be heard by other women while praying or reciting the Quran. Khalid Hanafi, the Taliban's minister for virtue, stated that even women praying aloud must not let others hear them, adding that activities like singing are also forbidden. The ban reflects the Taliban's strict interpretation of Islamic laws, which they have intensified since 2021. Women’s voices, considered “awrah,” or private, should not be heard in public or even by other women, according to Taliban officials. This is the latest in a series of restrictions on Afghan women.

Rishi Sunak, the UK’s first British Asian Prime Minister, stepped down as Opposition Leader on Wednesday, marking his last session in Parliament. “I became leader of my party during Diwali, and I now stand down during that same festival,” Sunak reflected, connecting Diwali to key moments in his career. Appointed during Diwali in 2022, Sunak lit diyas with his family outside 10 Downing Street, honoring his heritage. Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Sunak’s work and dedication, calling him an inspiration for Britain’s diversity. Sunak hinted he’ll be spending more time in Yorkshire as a Member of Parliament.

Russian court has fined Google an enormous $2.5 decillion for not restoring access to certain Russian state-backed media on YouTube. The fine, more than the world's entire economy, stems from Google’s refusal to unblock pro-Kremlin channels banned due to U.S. sanctions. The penalty will double daily if unpaid after nine months. Google’s revenue in 2023 was $307 billion, making it unlikely to cover this amount. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Google had restricted Russian media to limit misinformation. The tech giant has filed counter-suits, calling the ruling excessive and unjust.

South Korea’s military intelligence says North Korea is set to conduct a nuclear test and may soon launch a long-range missile capable of reaching the United States. This would be North Korea’s seventh nuclear test, likely at Punggye-ri’s test site. Preparations for an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch are also in progress, with a launch vehicle deployed. South Korea estimates around 11,000 North Korean troops are now in Russia, with some nearing combat zones. Tensions are rising, as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un continues to show off his military power, increasing concerns for neighboring countries and the U.S.

With the US election nearing, Kamala Harris relies on strong backing from Indian-American voters, a group gaining political influence in battleground states. Recent surveys show 61% of Indian-Americans support Harris, especially women, with only 32% favoring Trump. Dr. Vasudev Patel of the Federation of Indian-American Association of Georgia noted pride in Harris’s heritage as a motivator. Notably, Indian-Americans, numbering 5.2 million in the US, hold significant sway, particularly in Georgia and Michigan. The Harris-Trump race remains close, with both tied nationally. Securing 270 electoral votes remains critical for victory in swing states.

The Vatican has introduced "Luce," a new mascot designed to engage younger generations with Christian messages of hope. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, organizer for the Catholic Church’s upcoming jubilee year, explained that "Luce," meaning "light" in Latin, represents a blend of Christian and Japanese cultural elements. Created by Tokidoki co-founder Simone Legno, Luce is joined by "pilgrim friends" Fe, Xin, and Sky. The mascot will feature at the Lucca Comics and Games convention in Italy and at the 2025 Expo in Osaka, Japan. The jubilee year will run from Christmas Eve 2024 through January 6, 2026.

Vice President Kamala Harris delivered her final major speech to undecided voters, standing near the White House in a symbolic counterpoint to Donald Trump’s January 6 rally location. Addressing 70,000 supporters, Harris pledged a “different path” for America, contrasting her policies with Trump’s and highlighting plans to lower housing costs, expand child tax credits, and protect national abortion rights. Acknowledging Americans' concerns over immigration and the economy, she promised “common ground” solutions, focusing on unity and progress. With the election in a week, Harris aims to solidify her stance as a hopeful, stabilizing alternative.

Axel Rudakubana, the 18-year-old suspect in the Southport stabbings, has appeared in Westminster Magistrates' Court via video link from Belmarsh prison. He faces charges of producing a biological toxin and possessing information useful for committing or preparing acts of terrorism, following the discovery of ricin and an al Qaeda training manual at his home. Rudakubana, wearing a grey tracksuit, remained silent during the hearing and covered his face with his sweater. He already faces three murder charges, 10 attempted murder charges, and possession of a knife related to the July 29 incident in Southport.