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Cyclone Murasu Makes Landfall Near Ongole, Andhra Pradesh

Cyclone Murasu made landfall near Ongole with winds up to 120 kmph, bringing heavy rain and disrupting transport across Andhra Pradesh., By News National Editorial Team Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole early on Tuesday, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to coastal areas, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The storm made landfall between Nellore and Narasapur, with sustained winds reported at 100–110 kmph and gusts reaching 120 kmph Authorities had begun evacuation and preparedness measures ahead of the storm. Reuters reported that officials planned to move around 30,000 people to safety from areas in its path. The state disaster management authority said there had been no reports of deaths or injuries at the time of its report, although trees and power poles had been uprooted. The cyclone’s approach disrupted transport and public services. The Associated Press reported that schools had closed and some train services and flights were suspended, while officials warned of flooding in low-lying areas and a possible coastal storm surge. Murasu is the second cyclone to affect Andhra Pradesh in a week, following Cyclone Arnab. Reuters reported that Arnab had killed at least six people, while AP reported at least five; the difference in the early casualty figures highlights the need to rely on updated official assessments as relief and damage evaluations continue. The IMD’s latest bulletin, as carried by Akashvani, said Murasu was expected to move north-northwest and weaken gradually after crossing the coast. Heavy rain and strong winds can still pose risks after landfall, particularly in low-lying communities and areas affected by fallen trees or damaged power infrastructure. Residents should follow district administration and IMD advisories, avoid flooded roads and exposed coastal areas, and stay clear of fallen electrical wires. These are general safety precautions; people should follow any specific evacuation or shelter instructions issued by local authorities. Sources: Reuters; Associated Press; Akashvani News.Reuters,AP News,Akashvani News

GST Collections Reach ₹2.31 Lakh Crore in October 2026, Rise 22.9%

India's gross GST collections rose 22.9% to ₹2.31 lakh crore in October 2026, with import-related revenue driving much of the increase. New Delhi, November 2, 2026: India's gross Goods and Services Tax collections reached ₹2.31 lakh crore in October 2026, registering a year-on-year increase of 22.9%, according to figures released on November 1. The increase represents one of the strongest monthly growth rates in recent years and marks the fourth consecutive month in which gross GST collections exceeded ₹2 lakh crore. What drove the increase? Revenue from imports was a major contributor. Import-related GST collections increased 42.2% year-on-year to ₹72,246 crore. Domestic GST revenue rose 15.8% to approximately ₹1.59 lakh crore. Net GST collections, after refunds, increased 25.6% to ₹2.03 lakh crore. The figures indicate growth in tax receipts, although they should not be interpreted as a standalone measure of household purchasing power or economic wellbeing. State-wise performance Maharashtra remained the largest contributor among major states, with collections rising 13% to ₹35,150 crore. Karnataka recorded ₹15,922 crore, while Gujarat collected ₹13,516 crore. Uttar Pradesh reported a 24% increase to ₹10,235 crore. Assam recorded a particularly strong rise of 47% to ₹1,934 crore. Tamil Nadu's collections increased by 3% to ₹11,661 crore. What does this mean? GST collections are an important indicator of tax compliance, economic transactions and consumption-related activity. Higher receipts can strengthen government finances and provide resources for public expenditure. However, the figures also reflect import duties and changes in tax compliance, so a detailed assessment requires comparison with other economic indicators. By News National Editorial Team Sources: Moneycontrol – October GST figures · Akashvani News – GST collection update

Sheetal Devi Wins Two Gold Medals in One Day at Asian Para Games 2026

India's Sheetal Devi wins two gold medals at the 2026 Asian Para Games, partnering Toman Kumar and defending her individual compound title. By News National Editorial Team AICHI-NAGOYA, Japan, October 22, 2026: Indian para-archery star Sheetal Devi created a memorable sporting moment at the 2026 Asian Para Games, winning two gold medals in a single day and successfully defending both her titles in compound archery. The 19-year-old Indian athlete first partnered with Toman Kumar to win gold in the compound mixed team event before returning to the archery range to secure another gold in the women's individual compound final. Her remarkable performance at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games has brought international attention to India's achievements in para sports. Born without arms, Sheetal competes using an extraordinary archery technique in which she holds and operates her bow with her feet and legs, drawing and releasing the bowstring with the help of her shoulder and jaw. First Gold: Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar Win Mixed Team Title Sheetal began her golden day by teaming up with fellow Indian archer Toman Kumar in the compound mixed team final. The Indian pair faced Indonesia's Teodora Audi Audiya Ferelly and Ken Swagumilang in the gold medal match. India secured victory with a score of 151–148, maintaining its advantage through the contest to claim the championship. The victory also marked the successful defence of the mixed team title that Sheetal had previously won at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games alongside Rakesh Kumar. Second Gold: A Stunning Comeback in Individual Final Sheetal returned to competition later the same day for the women's individual compound final against Singapore's Nur Syahidah Alim. The contest became challenging when the Singaporean archer established an early advantage. Sheetal responded with remarkable consistency, producing a series of high-scoring rounds to recover from the deficit and take control of the match. She eventually secured the gold medal, successfully defending her individual Asian Para Games title for the second consecutive edition. The victory completed her impressive achievement of winning two gold medals on the same day. Three Medals at the 2026 Asian Para Games Sheetal's success was not limited to the two gold medals. She had earlier won silver in the women's compound doubles event alongside fellow Indian archer Payal Nag. Her final medal tally at the 2026 Asian Para Games was: Gold – Compound mixed team with Toman Kumar. Gold – Women's individual compound. Silver – Women's compound doubles with Payal Nag. The three-medal achievement further strengthened her position among India's leading para archers. Who Is Sheetal Devi? Sheetal Devi hails from Jammu and Kashmir and has become internationally recognised for her achievements in para archery. Born without arms, she developed a specialised shooting technique that allows her to compete against some of the world's leading archers. Her journey has included several major achievements: Two gold medals and one silver at the 2022 Asian Para Games. Bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in the mixed team event. Individual world championship gold in 2025. Two gold medals and one silver at the 2026 Asian Para Games. Her achievements have demonstrated the importance of accessible sporting opportunities, specialised coaching and sustained support for para athletes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Congratulates Sheetal Devi Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar on winning the mixed team gold medal. He praised their skill, composure and teamwork, saying that India was delighted by their success. The Prime Minister also congratulated Sheetal for defending her individual compound title, recognising her precision, consistency and dedication to sporting excellence. The congratulations reflected the national attention generated by the Indian team's performance at the international competition. India's Para Sports Achievements Gain International Recognition Sheetal Devi's performance highlights India's growing presence in international para sports. Para archery requires concentration, technical precision, physical control and the ability to perform consistently under competitive pressure. Her achievements also underline the importance of providing athletes with disabilities opportunities to develop their sporting abilities and compete at the highest levels. Winning two gold medals in one day is a remarkable achievement. For Sheetal Devi, it represents years of dedication, training and competitive experience. Her performance at Aichi-Nagoya 2026 has added another significant chapter to India's sporting achievements.  

India's B28 Bullet Train Enters Final Tests Trial Runs Expected in 2027

India's indigenous B28 bullet train is undergoing final squeeze tests at BEML Bengaluru ahead of planned high-speed rail trials in 2027. Bengaluru, November 2, 2026: India's indigenous high-speed train programme has reached another development milestone, with the B28 train's first coach undergoing final-stage structural testing at the BEML manufacturing facility in Bengaluru. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw witnessed the squeeze test at the facility on Sunday. The test examines whether the train's body can withstand external pressure and forces without unacceptable structural deformation. Following the test, the train will undergo installation of propulsion and electronic systems, followed by climate testing under extreme temperature and weather conditions. Key specifications Feature Reported specification Train model B28 Operational speed 249 kmph Maximum test speed 280 kmph Coaches 8 Passenger capacity Around 557 Train length Approximately 202 metres Manufacturer BEML The train is being developed for the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor. What is a squeeze test? A squeeze test is a structural safety assessment. Engineers apply controlled forces to the train body to check its strength, rigidity and ability to retain structural integrity under pressure. After this stage, the train will undergo additional engineering and environmental tests before trial operations can begin. When will the train operate? The reported plan is to begin trial runs during the first quarter of the 2027–28 financial year. Commercial operations have been targeted for August 2027 on the initial section, subject to completion of construction, testing and safety approvals. The B28 programme is an important step in India's domestic high-speed rail manufacturing ambitions. However, the train has not yet entered commercial passenger service. By News National Editorial Team Sources: Times of India – B28 development update · Business Standard – Indigenous bullet train testing

HPCL Visakhapatnam Refinery Fire After Explosion; No Casualties Reported

Fire breaks out at HPCL Visakhapatnam refinery after a reported explosion. The blaze was controlled, with no deaths or injuries reported. By News National Editorial Team VISAKHAPATNAM, November 3, 2026: A fire broke out at the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) refinery in Visakhapatnam on Monday night, November 2, triggering concern among residents after flames and thick black smoke were seen rising from the industrial facility. The incident was reported at approximately 10 PM at the HPCL Visakh Refinery in Malkapuram. According to the company, the fire occurred at a pitch intermediate storage tank within the refinery premises. HPCL confirmed that the fire was confined to the affected tank area and was brought under control within a short period through the refinery's emergency response arrangements. The company also confirmed that no casualties or injuries were reported. Fire Reported Following a Blast The incident reportedly began with a small explosion before flames emerged from the storage tank area. The sudden appearance of a large fire and thick smoke attracted attention from people living in nearby areas, with some residents expressing concern about the possibility of a larger industrial accident. According to local officials, the fire involved pitch material associated with the refinery's sulphur unit. The exact technical cause of the incident had not been established in the initial reports. HPCL Activates Emergency Response System Following the incident, HPCL's Fire and Safety Team immediately activated its emergency response procedures and deployed firefighting equipment. The company subsequently announced that the fire had been localised and extinguished. HPCL stated that all refinery units were operating safely following the incident. Local police and administrative officials also visited the facility to assess the situation. Visakhapatnam officials said there were no deaths or injuries and requested residents not to panic. Officials Indicate Industrial Safety Enquiry Revenue Divisional Officer Dileep Chakravarthy said the fire had been extinguished using the refinery's firefighting systems and resources from the Andhra Pradesh Fire Department. He also indicated that an enquiry would be initiated to examine industrial safety aspects in accordance with applicable regulations. The investigation is expected to help establish the circumstances that led to the incident and determine whether any additional safety measures are required. Importance of Industrial Safety in Visakhapatnam Visakhapatnam is one of Andhra Pradesh's major industrial centres, with petroleum refining, port operations, manufacturing and other large industrial activities contributing significantly to the regional economy. The HPCL Visakh Refinery is a major petroleum processing facility with an installed capacity of 15 million metric tonnes per annum. The refinery produces several petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, LPG and other industrial products. Any fire or accident at such a facility can raise concerns about worker safety, industrial preparedness and the protection of nearby communities. The November 2 incident was brought under control without reported casualties. However, the planned enquiry will be important in establishing the cause and assessing whether further preventive measures are necessary. Sources: ThePrint/PTI – HPCL confirms fire was controlled and no casualties occurred. The Indian Express – Initial report on the refinery fire. The Times of India – Local officials' statements and safety enquiry details.

Indore Teenagers Invent Thermavault Salt-Powered Vaccine Cooler, Win $12,500

Three Indore Teenagers Invent Salt-Powered Vaccine Cooling Device, Win $12,500 at Earth Prize 2025 By News National Editorial Team INDORE, India: Turning a simple classroom science concept into a potentially life-saving healthcare innovation, three teenagers from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, have developed an electricity-free cooling device designed to help transport vaccines and temperature-sensitive medicines to remote communities. The invention, named Thermavault, was developed by Dhruv Chaudhary, Mithran Ladhania and Mridul Jain. Their innovation uses a salt-based chemical reaction involving water to generate cooling without requiring conventional electricity, batteries or ice packs. The project earned the team the Asia Regional Winner title at the prestigious Earth Prize 2025, along with $12,500 in funding to support further development and implementation. How Does Thermavault Work? Thermavault uses a scientific principle involving an endothermic reaction, in which certain salts absorb heat from their surroundings when dissolved in water. The cooling process helps reduce the temperature inside the insulated device, creating an environment suitable for transporting temperature-sensitive medical supplies. According to information shared by The Earth Prize, the system can maintain cooling for up to 12 hours. One of its interesting features is the potential to reuse the salt. After the cooling process, the water can be evaporated by heating the solution, allowing the salt to be recovered and used again. This approach could reduce dependence on conventional cooling materials and disposable packaging. An Idea Inspired by Healthcare Challenges The inspiration behind Thermavault came from challenges associated with transporting vaccines to rural communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The three students, whose families have medical backgrounds, became aware of the difficulties healthcare workers face when transporting temperature-sensitive medical supplies to locations with unreliable electricity. Vaccines require carefully controlled storage temperatures to maintain their effectiveness. In areas without dependable refrigeration facilities, maintaining the required cold chain can become particularly challenging. The students explored how a simple chemistry concept could help address this problem and developed their cooling system into a practical prototype. $12,500 Award to Support Further Development The Thermavault team received the Asia Regional Winner recognition at The Earth Prize 2025, an international environmental competition for young innovators. The $12,500 award is intended to help the students advance their invention beyond the initial prototype stage. According to The Earth Prize announcement, the team planned to manufacture 200 units for testing and expand trials across approximately 120 hospitals in their region. The students have also received encouragement from experts and medical professionals, including feedback from the Indian Institute of Technology Indore community. Potential Benefits for Rural Healthcare If further testing and regulatory evaluation establish its effectiveness, Thermavault could offer an additional option for transporting medical supplies in areas where conventional refrigeration is difficult. Potential applications include: Transporting vaccines to remote villages. Supporting rural healthcare centres. Carrying temperature-sensitive medicines. Supporting medical outreach and immunisation programmes. Reducing dependence on electricity during short-distance medical transportation. However, the device will need appropriate performance testing, temperature monitoring and relevant certification before it can be widely adopted for vaccine programmes. The team has expressed interest in pursuing World Health Organization Performance, Quality and Safety (WHO PQS) certification. A Classroom Lesson with Real-World Potential Thermavault demonstrates how scientific knowledge acquired in school can inspire solutions to practical challenges. The innovation also highlights the importance of encouraging young people to explore science, sustainability and healthcare technology. For millions of people living in communities with limited electricity infrastructure, reliable transportation of medical supplies remains an important challenge. Although further development and testing are necessary, the three young innovators from Indore have brought attention to a problem that deserves greater technological and public health attention. Their achievement at the Earth Prize 2025 offers an encouraging example of how student-led research can contribute to discussions about accessible healthcare and sustainable innovation. Sources and verification The Earth Prize – Official announcement, April 22, 2025 The Earth Prize – 2025 Scholars and regional winners India Today – Thermavault innovation and development The Times of India – Device testing and future plans

PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen Win Hylo Open 2026 Singles Titles

Indian badminton stars PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen win the women's and men's singles titles at the Hylo Open 2026 in Germany. India wins both Hylo Open singles titles Indian badminton players PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen won the women's and men's singles titles respectively at the Hylo Open 2026 in Germany, according to Akashvani's sports bulletin. The double victory provided a significant boost to India's international badminton campaign. Akashvani News+1

TRAI Orders 24-Hour Complaint Centres for Telecom and Internet Users

TRAI has ordered 24-hour complaint centres for telecom and internet providers, with human support, faster appeals and penalties for mishandled cases. By News National Editorial Team The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has directed telecom operators and internet service providers to establish complaint centres that operate around the clock, under amended consumer complaint redressal rules announced on Monday. The centres may use AI-based agents, but the rules also require human assistance for at least 16 hours a day, according to Hindustan Times. The amended rules introduce financial penalties for mishandling consumer complaints. The report says service providers could face penalties of up to ₹20 lakh per quarter per service area, depending on the nature and number of complaints or appeals found to have been wrongly disposed of. TRAI will also require operators to submit quarterly performance reports. The rules address how customers contact providers and track complaints. They include requirements for a standard interactive voice response system, a human-support option, call-back facilities and complaint registration through apps and websites. Consumers are to receive status updates through SMS or email, and services must be available in a state’s official language in addition to Hindi and English. The regulator has also shortened the period for filing an appeal from 30 days to 15 days and directed appellate authorities to decide appeals within 15 days. The report says complaints and appeals will be subject to consumer feedback surveys, with results published quarterly. The revised framework is intended to make grievance redressal more accessible and accountable. However, the implementation timetable is staggered: the report says the rules take effect 30 days after publication in the Official Gazette, while some requirements—including 24-hour centres—are scheduled to apply later. Consumers should check the final Gazette notification and their provider’s updates for the applicable dates. Sources: Hindustan Times; Akashvani News.India News,Akashvani News

Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains Expand on Delhi–Varanasi and Bengaluru–Mumbai Routes

Indian Railways expands Vande Bharat Sleeper services connecting Delhi–Varanasi and Bengaluru–Mumbai for overnight passengers. New Delhi, November 2, 2026: Indian Railways is expanding its premium overnight rail services with the introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains connecting Varanasi with New Delhi and Bengaluru with Mumbai. The new services are intended to improve overnight connectivity between major cities and provide passengers with modern sleeper accommodation. The Railway Ministry confirmed the Bengaluru–Mumbai service's flag-off on November 1, while regular services on the two routes were reported to begin on November 2. Why sleeper trains matter Unlike the existing daytime Vande Bharat chair-car services, sleeper versions are designed for longer overnight journeys. The trains aim to combine faster intercity travel with sleeping accommodation, allowing passengers to travel overnight without relying on conventional long-distance express services. What passengers should check Before booking, passengers should verify: The official train number and operating days. Departure and arrival times. Station stoppages. Berth and coach availability. Ticket prices and cancellation conditions. Catering arrangements and luggage rules. The actual schedule and fares should be checked on the official IRCTC booking platform because services may have different operating patterns. A step towards modern rail travel The expansion of sleeper services is part of the Railways' wider effort to modernise long-distance passenger transportation. The success of these trains will depend on punctuality, passenger comfort, maintenance, affordability and reliable service delivery. By News National Editorial Team Sources: PIB – Ministry of Railways updates · Indian Express – Bengaluru–Mumbai service · Indian Express – November 2 railway updates

Nepal Helicopter Collision Near Mount Everest Kills Indian Tourist; Three Injured

An Indian tourist was killed and three people injured after Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty helicopters collided at Pheriche, Nepal. Pheriche, Nepal | November 3, 2026 Two helicopters operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty collided while attempting to land at the Pheriche helipad in Nepal’s Everest region on Tuesday morning, killing a 47-year-old Indian tourist and injuring three other people, including both pilots. The accident occurred at approximately 8:11 a.m. local time in Pheriche, located in Solukhumbu district within Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. The remote settlement lies along the popular trekking route to Mount Everest Base Camp. According to reports citing Nepalese police and aviation authorities, the deceased was identified as Vasanth Kumar Balaramudu, a 47-year-old Indian national from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He was travelling aboard the Fishtail Air helicopter and died at the accident site. Three people injured The injured were identified as a passenger and the pilots of the two helicopters. The passenger, 49-year-old Shailesh Kumar Patel, is a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin. Fishtail Air pilot Rabindra Prajapati and Air Dynasty pilot Prajal K.C. also sustained injuries. Patel and Prajapati were airlifted to Nepal Mediciti Hospital in Kathmandu for treatment. Air Dynasty pilot Prajal K.C. was taken to a hospital in Lukla. His condition was reported to be stable, according to local reports. Emergency helicopter services assisted with the evacuation from the remote accident location. What happened during the landing? The aircraft involved were operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty. Preliminary reports indicate that their rotor blades struck each other as the helicopters approached the Pheriche helipad. According to information reported by The Kathmandu Post, the Air Dynasty helicopter had flown from Lukla, while the Fishtail Air helicopter had arrived from Gorakshep. The collision occurred during landing operations. The precise sequence of events and the factors that led to the aircraft coming into contact remain subjects of investigation. Aviation authorities begin investigation Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority and local police have begun examining the circumstances surrounding the accident. Investigators are expected to establish the aircraft movements, communication between pilots, landing procedures and other operational factors. The Civil Aviation Authority's preliminary comments, reported by The Kathmandu Post, raised the possibility of communication problems between pilots operating in an area without coverage from Lukla Airport's air traffic control tower. This has not been established as the final cause. No definitive conclusion about responsibility or the technical cause should be drawn before the investigation is completed. Safety concerns in Nepal’s Everest region Helicopters play an important role in Nepal's Himalayan tourism industry. They transport trekkers, mountaineers and supplies, and are frequently used for medical evacuations and rescue operations in areas where road access is extremely limited. Pheriche is an important stopping point for visitors travelling towards Everest Base Camp. Its high-altitude location and challenging mountain environment make aviation operations particularly demanding. The collision has renewed attention on helicopter coordination and landing safety in the Everest region, where aircraft movements increase during busy trekking and climbing seasons. Authorities are continuing their investigation. Further information about the accident and its findings is expected as officials complete their inquiries. By News National Editorial Team Sources: Nepal Civil Aviation Authority information reported by The Kathmandu Post; Nepal Police information reported by OnlineKhabar; News On AIR.

11-Year-Old Egyptian Girl Wins ₹1.2 Crore in Dubai Arab Reading Challenge

Egypt's 11-year-old Mayar Othman wins AED 500,000 in Dubai's Arab Reading Challenge after an inspiring reading journey. By News National Editorial Team An 11-year-old girl from Egypt has achieved international recognition after being crowned the champion of the 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge, one of the world's largest student reading competitions, held in Dubai. Mayar Mohammed Ragab Othman was honoured by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, during the competition's grand finale on October 29, 2026. The young student received a prize of AED 500,000, equivalent to approximately ₹1.2 crore, for securing first place in the competition. Her achievement has attracted attention across the Arab world and highlighted the importance of encouraging reading among children. From Reading 60 Books to Becoming a Champion Mayar's success followed a remarkable reading journey that included reading at least 60 books as part of the challenge. Her performance helped her progress through the competition's selection stages and eventually represent Egypt at the international final in Dubai. According to reports, she qualified from a field of more than 17.6 million participants in Egypt before competing against national champions from other countries. Speaking after her victory, Mayar explained how reading had influenced her personality, thinking and ambitions. She also expressed her intention to use part of her prize money to establish a small library at her school, giving other students greater access to books. Her decision has added another meaningful dimension to the achievement, turning a personal success into an opportunity to encourage reading among fellow students. Sheikh Mohammed Honours the Young Winner The award ceremony took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Thursday, October 29. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum personally crowned Mayar as the 10th Arab Reading Challenge champion. The event was attended by senior UAE officials and representatives of the participating countries. The competition also recognised outstanding achievements in several other categories, including the Best School, Outstanding Supervisor, Community Champion and People of Determination Champion awards. Mayar's victory placed Egypt at the centre of the international celebration of reading and education. More Than 40 Million Students Participated The 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge recorded its largest participation since the initiative began. According to the organisers, the 2026 competition attracted: 40,286,428 students from 60 countries. 138,426 schools participating worldwide. 161,507 supervisors supporting students. 74,062 participants in the People of Determination category. The participation represented a 24% increase compared with the previous edition. The competition was organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), an organisation that supports educational, humanitarian and community development initiatives. Other Winners Recognised The final also celebrated students who secured the second and third positions. Palestinian student Ghazal Rashad Adel Tayyem won second place and received AED 100,000, while Saudi Arabian student Rayan bin Adeeb Ali Al Zakeri secured third place with a prize of AED 70,000. Tunisia's Sidi Amer School received the Best School award, which carried a prize of AED 1 million. Jordan's Fakhri Mahmoud Mayyas was recognised in the Outstanding Supervisor category. These awards highlighted the contributions of students, schools and educators in promoting literacy and a culture of learning. A Reading Initiative That Has Reached Millions Launched in 2015 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Arab Reading Challenge aims to encourage children and young people to develop a lasting habit of reading. The initiative promotes Arabic-language reading, strengthens comprehension and communication skills, and encourages students to explore knowledge beyond their school textbooks. Across its first ten editions, the challenge has reached more than 203 million student participants, according to the organisers. Mayar's achievement demonstrates how reading can help young people develop confidence, knowledge and ambition. Her plan to build a school library also sends an important message: the benefits of reading become greater when knowledge is shared. For millions of participating students, her victory is an inspiring reminder that books can open doors to opportunities far beyond the classroom.