The name Muhammad has topped the list of baby boy names in England and Wales for the second consecutive year, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). In 2024, 5,721 boys were named Muhammad, a 23% increase from the previous year2. Variants like Mohammed and Mohammad also ranked high, placing 21st and 53rd respectively. The rise reflects the growing Muslim population in Britain and the cultural significance of naming children after revered Islamic figures2. Other Islamic names such as Yusuf, Musa, and Ibrahim also entered the top 100. For girls, Olivia retained the top spot, followed by Amelia and Lily. The data highlights shifting cultural trends in British naming practices. (PC: University of Oxford & Kerv)

In a groundbreaking moment for reproductive science, Thaddeus Daniel Pierce was born in Ohio from an embryo frozen for over 30 years. Originally created in 1994 through IVF by Linda Archerd, the embryo was cryopreserved until adopted by Lindsey and Tim Pierce via the Snowflakes program. The birth sets a world record for the oldest frozen embryo to result in a live birth. Experts say the case proves long-term cryopreservation can preserve embryo viability. The emotional journey highlights the power of embryo adoption, offering hope to families facing infertility. Thaddeus’s birth bridges generations his genetic sister was born three decades earlier, making this a surreal yet real triumph of science and faith. (PC: Times of India & IStock)

India has declined to comment on the White House’s push for President Donald Trump to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that questions regarding Trump’s candidacy should be directed to the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed Trump brokered multiple peace deals including between India and Pakistan, averaging one per month during his six-month tenure. India, however, reiterated that the cessation of hostilities with Pakistan was a bilateral decision, with Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar denying any foreign intervention during Operation Sindoor. Pakistan has formally nominated Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, but the Norwegian Nobel Committee has not commented publicly on the matter. (PC: Exploring Economics & Firstpost)

An encounter broke out on Friday between security forces and terrorists in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The operation began after intelligence reports said terrorists were hiding in the Akhal forest area. Forces quickly surrounded the area and started a search. The terrorists opened fire, and the forces fired back. More troops were sent to strengthen the cordon. This comes days after two terrorists were killed near the LoC in Poonch. In another recent operation, three Pakistani terrorists linked to the Pahalgam attack were killed near Srinagar. Security forces remain on high alert in the region. The operation is still ongoing. (PC: Waseem Andrabi /Hindustan Times)

The Kerala Story, directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Shah, won Best Director and Best Cinematography at the 71st National Film Awards despite intense controversy. The film, which portrays the radicalization and recruitment of Kerala women by ISIS, was banned in West Bengal and faced protests in Tamil Nadu, while receiving tax-free status in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh. Jury chair Ashutosh Gowariker defended the awards, praising the film’s stark, realistic cinematography and Sen’s clarity in handling a difficult subject. Gowariker emphasized that the jury unanimously recognized the film’s technical and narrative merits, regardless of its polarizing reception and political overtones. (PC: Airtel Xstream)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for tougher sanctions on Russia after a deadly missile and drone attack on Kyiv killed at least 31 people, including five children. The youngest victim was just two years old. Over 150 others were injured. The strikes damaged homes, a hospital, a school, and a university. "Sanctions do work – and they must be strengthened," Zelensky said. He urged the U.S., Europe, and allies to act fast. U.S. and German officials signaled more support, with Germany promising two Patriot systems. Trump condemned Russia’s actions and hinted at new sanctions if a ceasefire isn't reached soon. (PC: Reuters)

India is building a powerful new warship under Project 18. This next-gen destroyer will be the biggest in the Navy, with a size of 13,000 tonnes. It can carry 144 missiles, including BrahMos, and track enemies up to 500 km away. The ship will have four advanced radars and support anti-air, anti-ship, and land attacks. It can also launch underwater drones and helicopters. Most parts will be made in India. The Navy plans to sign a contract in 5 years and finish delivery in 10. Project 18 is part of India’s goal to build a 175-warship fleet by 2035.

A man on a Mumbai-Kolkata IndiGo flight suffered a panic attack after boarding. As crew helped him leave, another passenger slapped him. The shocking moment was caught on video. The crew and another flyer stopped the attacker, who said, “We are facing problems because of him.” The crew gave water to the distressed man and asked the attacker to stop. IndiGo later said, “Unruly behaviour is not acceptable.” The passenger who hit the man was removed from the flight and handed to security. The airline said rules were followed and all authorities were informed. The incident is under review.

The 71st National Film Awards have officially honored Vikrant Massey with the Best Actor award for his powerful performance in 12th Fail, a film directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. Massey shares the prestigious title with Shah Rukh Khan, who won for Jawan. The announcement was made at a press conference in New Delhi after weeks of jury deliberation. Massey had long aspired to win a National Award, calling it the highest honor for an Indian actor. His emotional reaction reflects the significance of the win, which he dedicated to marginalized communities. The awards also recognized Rani Mukerji as Best Actress for Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, marking her first National Award. (PC: IMDB)

Storm Floris will bring strong winds and heavy rain to the UK on Monday, the Met Office said. A yellow warning is in place for northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Winds could reach 70mph in coastal areas and up to 85mph in parts of Scotland. The warning lasts from 6am Monday to 6am Tuesday. The Met Office warned of damage to buildings, flying debris, and power cuts. Travel may be delayed or cancelled. Rain may add to the problems. “There is some uncertainty in the storm’s path,” said the Met Office. The weekend will stay mixed with sun and showers. (PC: PA)