NASA’s Perseverance rover has found rocks in a dry river channel on Mars that may show signs of ancient life. The samples, taken from Neretva Vallis, contained iron phosphate and iron sulfide, chemicals often linked to microbial activity on Earth. Scientists said it is the strongest evidence yet but warned that non-biological processes could also explain the results. The rover has collected 30 samples so far, with more planned. NASA hopes one day to return them to Earth, though delays have pushed the mission into the 2040s. Researchers called the find “exciting” but not final proof of life. (PC: X)

Shah Rukh Khan’s Meer Foundation has announced aid for flood-hit Punjab. The foundation will support 1,500 families across Amritsar, Patiala, Fazilka, and Firozpur. Relief kits will include food, medicines, hygiene items, mosquito nets, mattresses, and tarpaulin sheets. Meer Foundation has partnered with local NGOs like Voice of Amritsar to provide household goods, including gas stoves, beds, and water purifiers. “We are happy to contribute,” said Seenu Arora from VOA. Salman Khan’s Being Human Foundation has also joined efforts, sending boats for rescue and promising to adopt villages. Together, these steps aim to help families rebuild lives with dignity. (PC: News18)

Witnesses have described the chaos after US conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, was shot dead at Utah Valley University. He was hit in the neck by a single bullet while speaking to about 3,000 people. Students and supporters said the crowd “hit the deck and scattered” as panic spread. One eyewitness said, “Charlie falls off his stool, everyone starts panicking.” Videos show people running for safety while others hid behind walls. Attendees said there was little security at the event. Police believe the shooter fired from a rooftop about 130m away. The suspect remains at large. (PC: BBC)

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds across 49 areas in the UK. The alert will remain from Sunday evening until Monday evening. Gusts of 50-60 mph are expected, with 70-80 mph possible in exposed areas. Officials warned of “danger to life” from flying debris, power cuts, and travel disruption. Roads and bridges could close, and coastal towns may see large waves. Residents have been urged to secure bins, garden furniture, and sheds. The Met Office advised people to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary. Emergency kits with torches and power packs are recommended. (PC: Mirror)

India crushed UAE by 9 wickets in their Asia Cup 2025 opener in Dubai. UAE were bowled out for just 57 runs in 13.1 overs. Kuldeep Yadav starred with 4 wickets, while Shivam Dube took 3. India chased the target easily in 4.3 overs. Abhishek Sharma dominated as opener, while Shubman Gill, returning to the side, scored 20 runs off 9 balls. His six into the stands amazed everyone, including Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, who shouted in excitement from the commentary box. Captain Suryakumar praised his team’s energy and said players are excited for the upcoming clash against Pakistan.

Indian-origin Singapore immigration officer Kannan Morice Rajagopal Jayaram was sentenced to 22 months imprisonment for exploiting young foreign applicants. The 55-year-old Immigration and Checkpoints Authority inspector corruptly obtained sexual favors in exchange for helping with short-term visit pass applications between 2022-2023. He targeted Indian nationals aged 25-30 who came to Singapore for education purposes. Prosecutors called it an "appalling case" where he exploited vulnerable young foreigners instead of serving as an impartial public representative. Kannan, who supervised visa extension processing teams, used his discretionary approval powers to coerce applicants. He pleaded guilty to three corruption charges in July after being charged and suspended from duty in 2023. The case highlights serious abuse of immigration authority. (PC: India Filings)

    Nepal faces unprecedented political turmoil as Gen-Z protests forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's resignation after deadly police crackdowns killed 19 people. Violent demonstrations erupted following social media bans, escalating into attacks on politicians' homes. Tragically, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former PM Jhalanath Khanal, died after being burned alive when protesters torched their residence. Dramatic helicopter evacuations using rescue slings saved other ministers' families from angry mobs. Parliament buildings were set ablaze, prisons attacked, and the army deployed across Kathmandu. With 20% youth unemployment driving frustrations, over 2,000 young Nepalis migrate daily for work. The crisis reflects deep-seated anger over corruption, nepotism, and economic stagnation among Nepal's disillusioned younger generation.  

Protests in Nepal turned violent again as Gen Z demonstrators clashed outside the Nepali Army headquarters in Bhadrakali, Kathmandu. Rival groups argued over who should lead the interim government, with one side backing ex-Chief Justice Sushila Karki and another supporting Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah. Fights broke out, and even supporters of Dharan Mayor Harka Sampang joined. The army struggled to control the unrest. The protests began after a social media ban and anger over corruption, nepotism, and unemployment. At least 34 people have died this week, and over 13,500 prisoners escaped during the chaos. President Paudel has appealed for calm. (PC: News18)

Charlie Kirk, 31, a right-wing activist and close Trump ally, was shot dead during an event at Utah Valley University. Authorities said a single bullet was fired from the roof of the Losee Centre, about 100 yards away. Videos showed a man in dark clothes moving on the rooftop before and after the attack. Kirk was struck in the neck while speaking about gun violence, sparking panic among thousands present. Officials called it a “targeted attack,” though no suspect has been arrested. The killing adds to a series of violent political incidents across the US. Investigation is still ongoing.

Raul John Aju, 16, Kerala’s youngest AI prodigy, has hired his father to work at his startup, Arm Technologies. He began learning AI at age 6 and later built his own robot, Me-bot. Speaking at the India Today South Conclave 2025 in Coimbatore, Raul urged India to lead its own tech race instead of following others. He has developed over 10 AI tools and shares free learning content online. Raul also works on Project JustEase with Kerala and Dubai governments to build public-use technology. He says skills and creativity, not degrees, will drive India’s tech future. (PC: India Today)