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ICCR Welcomes 11 Thai Students to India to Strengthen Cultural and Hindi Language Ties By News National Editorial Team India is strengthening its cultural and educational connections with Thailand as the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) welcomes 11 Hindi-language students from Thailand's Silpakorn University for a visit to India from November 11 to 19, 2026. The visit is being organised under the Students Visitors Programme, an initiative aimed at promoting cultural exchange, international understanding and stronger connections among young people. Promoting Hindi Language and Indian Culture The visit celebrates the students' dedication to learning Hindi and provides them with an opportunity to experience India's cultural diversity, traditions and heritage. Through direct engagement with Indian society, the students can gain a deeper understanding of the language, history and cultural values they have been studying. Strengthening India–Thailand Relations India and Thailand share longstanding historical, cultural and religious connections. Educational exchanges and student visits play an important role in maintaining these relationships and encouraging cooperation between younger generations. The ICCR initiative also highlights India's commitment to cultural diplomacy and international educational engagement. Youth Connectivity Through Education The Students Visitors Programme provides an opportunity for international students to experience India beyond classroom learning. Such exchanges can encourage friendships, academic cooperation and greater appreciation of different cultures. They also create opportunities for students to become cultural ambassadors when they return to their home countries. The visit by the 11 students from Silpakorn University represents another step towards strengthening people-to-people connections between India and Thailand. Sources and References Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): https://www.iccr.gov.in/ Silpakorn University: https://www.su.ac.th/ News National Editorial Note: The visit dates and participant details are based on the information supplied. The programme itinerary and individual student details have not been independently verified.

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Indian Railways Introduces First Amrit Bharat Express 3.0 With AC Coaches on Delhi–Patna Route

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A global Microsoft 365 outage disrupted Outlook and other services, affecting businesses and government organisations worldwide. By News National Editorial Team Microsoft 365 Global Outage Disrupts Businesses and Government Services Worldwide A major disruption to Microsoft's cloud-based productivity services affected businesses, government organisations and users across multiple countries, highlighting the growing dependence of modern workplaces on cloud infrastructure. The outage began on November 12, 2026, and continued to affect services into November 13, according to a Reuters report. Users reported difficulties accessing Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook and other services connected to the company's cloud ecosystem. Outlook and other services face disruption Microsoft 365 is widely used by companies, educational institutions, government departments and individuals for email, document management, communication and collaboration. Outlook is particularly important for organisations that depend on email for customer communication, internal coordination, business transactions and official correspondence. When email and cloud services become unavailable, organisations can experience delays in meetings, document sharing, customer responses and administrative operations. The disruption also raised concerns about dependencies between different applications. Even when individual applications remain operational, services that rely on shared cloud infrastructure can experience interruptions. Businesses face operational challenges For businesses operating across different time zones, an extended outage can affect productivity and customer service. Companies relying on Microsoft 365 for daily operations may need alternative communication channels, backup access to important documents and established business continuity procedures. Government organisations and large enterprises can face additional challenges because their operations often depend on interconnected digital systems. The incident demonstrates that cloud services are not completely immune to technical failures, even when provided by major technology companies. Microsoft's response Microsoft worked on addressing the disruption and restoring affected services. Reuters reported the outage as a significant disruption affecting businesses and governments globally. Organisations should rely on Microsoft's official service-status communications for confirmed restoration information rather than assuming every application has recovered simultaneously. Why this outage matters Cloud computing has become a central component of modern business operations. Organisations increasingly depend on a small number of technology providers for email, file storage, collaboration, identity management and productivity applications. This concentration creates operational risks when a major provider experiences technical problems. Businesses should consider maintaining alternative communication methods, regular data backups, emergency contact lists and documented recovery procedures. What organisations should do Companies can reduce the impact of future disruptions by maintaining offline access to essential information, identifying alternative communication channels and reviewing their business continuity plans. IT teams should also monitor official service-status updates and communicate clearly with employees when systems are unavailable. Conclusion The Microsoft 365 disruption highlights the importance of reliability, resilience and contingency planning in an increasingly cloud-dependent world. While cloud platforms offer significant advantages, organisations must prepare for interruptions that can affect critical business operations. Sources and references Reuters – Hours-long Microsoft outage disrupts businesses and governments globally, November 12, 2026. Microsoft 365 outage service coverage. Microsoft 365 official service health. Editorial note: The outage began November 12 and was still developing on November 13. Exact affected-user totals and complete restoration status should be updated from official service reports.

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Learn how to launch a website for free without a credit card using Vercel, Netlify, GitHub Pages and Cloudflare Pages with this step-by-step guide. How to Launch a Website Completely Free Without a Credit Card (2026 Guide) Launching a website no longer requires expensive hosting, complicated server configurations or an initial investment. Several hosting platforms offer free plans that allow developers, students, startups and website owners to publish websites without providing credit card details. From personal portfolios and business websites to static blogs and web applications, free hosting services provide useful tools for getting started. This guide explains the best free hosting platforms, domain options, deployment procedures and limitations to consider before launching a website. 1. Best Free Website Hosting Platforms Several platforms provide free hosting with features such as automatic SSL certificates, global content delivery networks (CDNs), GitHub integration and automated deployments. Vercel – Best for React and Next.js Websites Dashboard redesign - Vercel vercel.com Vercel is a popular hosting platform for modern frontend applications, particularly websites developed using React and Next.js. Key features include: Automatic HTTPS and SSL certificates. Global content delivery network. GitHub repository integration. Automatic deployment when code changes. Preview URLs for development branches. Serverless and edge functions within plan limits. Website: https://vercel.com/ Vercel's free Hobby plan is primarily intended for personal, non-commercial projects. Businesses should review its paid-plan requirements. Netlify – Best for Static Websites Deploying a Static Site with Netlify | Codecademy codecademy.com Netlify offers an accessible platform for deploying static websites and frontend applications. Key features include: GitHub integration. Drag-and-drop website deployment. Automatic HTTPS. Serverless functions. Form handling features. Website preview deployments. Website: https://www.netlify.com/ GitHub Pages – Best for Portfolio Websites GitHub Pages로 웹사이트 무료 호스팅하기 | Engineering Blog by Dale Seo daleseo.com GitHub Pages allows users to publish websites directly from GitHub repositories. It is particularly useful for personal portfolios, documentation, project demonstrations and simple informational websites. Key features include: Free static website hosting. GitHub repository integration. Custom domain support. HTTPS support. Automatic publishing through GitHub workflows. Website: https://pages.github.com/ Cloudflare Pages – Best for Fast Static Website Hosting Preview deployments · Cloudflare Pages docs docs.kabirsikand.com Cloudflare Pages provides static website hosting through Cloudflare's global network. Key features include: Free static website hosting. Global CDN infrastructure. Automatic SSL certificates. GitHub integration. Preview deployments. Support for frontend frameworks. Website: https://pages.cloudflare.com/ Its free plan has usage limits for builds and files, although static asset bandwidth is not charged under the standard Pages free-plan model. 2. Step-by-Step Website Launch Guide Launching a website using GitHub and Vercel or Cloudflare Pages involves four main steps. Step 1: Create a GitHub Repository Visit https://github.com/ and create a free account. Create a new repository and upload your website files, including: index.html style.css script.js Images and other required assets. Step 2: Upload Your Website Files If Git is installed, open the project directory in your terminal and execute: git init git add . git commit -m "Initial website upload" git branch -M main git remote add origin https://github.com/USERNAME/PROJECT.git git push -u origin main Replace USERNAME and PROJECT with your GitHub username and repository name. Step 3: Connect Your Repository to a Hosting Platform Visit Vercel or Cloudflare Pages and sign in using your GitHub account. Select the repository you created, configure the build settings if necessary and start deployment. Once deployment finishes, the platform provides a public website address. Examples: project.vercel.app project.pages.dev Step 4: Enable Automatic Deployment After connecting GitHub, subsequent changes pushed to the connected repository can automatically trigger new deployments. This eliminates the need to manually upload website files every time you update your project. 3. How to Get a Free Website Domain A custom domain can make a website look more professional, but purchasing a domain is not necessary to launch a website. Several platforms provide free subdomains. Platform Free website address Vercel project.vercel.app Cloudflare Pages project.pages.dev Netlify project.netlify.app GitHub Pages username.github.io Students can also explore the GitHub Student Developer Pack, which provides access to selected developer tools and promotional domain offers for eligible students. Website: https://education.github.com/pack Domain promotions, eligibility and renewal conditions may vary. 4. Free Hosting for PHP and MySQL Websites Static hosting platforms cannot directly execute traditional PHP applications or provide a standard MySQL database. For websites developed using PHP and MySQL, developers need hosting that supports server-side execution. Two services worth exploring are: InfinityFree Website: https://www.infinityfree.com/ Features include: PHP support. MySQL databases. Web file management. Free subdomains. SSL support. AwardSpace Website: https://www.awardspace.com/free-hosting/ Features include: PHP hosting. MySQL database support. Free hosting options. Website management tools. These services can be useful for learning, demonstrations and development. Always check their current resource limits, acceptable-use policies and backup facilities before deployment. 5. Free Hosting vs Paid Hosting Free hosting is useful for starting a project, but it is not suitable for every website. Website requirement Recommended hosting Personal portfolio Free hosting HTML and CSS website Free hosting Static blog Free hosting React frontend Vercel or Cloudflare Pages Documentation website GitHub Pages PHP and MySQL project PHP-compatible hosting Large e-commerce website Paid production hosting Business news portal Reliable production hosting High-traffic applications Scalable paid infrastructure Free hosting plans generally include restrictions on storage, bandwidth, processing, database resources or commercial usage. Before selecting a provider, understand the limitations and determine whether the service can support your website's expected traffic. 6. Free SSL Certificates and Website Security Website security is essential even when using free hosting. Most established hosting providers offer automatic HTTPS certificates for supported websites. Important security practices include: Enable HTTPS. Use strong administrative passwords. Keep website software updated. Protect database credentials. Validate uploaded files. Implement secure authentication. Maintain independent website backups. Monitor website availability. For additional website protection, Cloudflare offers DNS management, CDN services and security features through its free plan. Website: https://www.cloudflare.com/ 7. Final Checklist Before Launching a Website Before publishing a website, verify the following: Create a GitHub account. Prepare and test website files. Select an appropriate hosting platform. Connect the GitHub repository. Complete the deployment process. Configure HTTPS. Test website functionality. Check mobile responsiveness. Connect a custom domain if available. Configure backups and security. Conclusion Launching a website without a credit card or hosting expenses is possible using free hosting platforms such as Vercel, Netlify, GitHub Pages and Cloudflare Pages. For static websites and personal projects, these services offer convenient deployment options. Developers building PHP and MySQL applications should choose a compatible hosting provider instead. The best approach is to begin with a free hosting plan, understand its limitations and upgrade when website traffic, security, storage or business requirements demand additional resources.

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Delhi faces severe air pollution as AQI readings cross 400 in several areas, raising health concerns across the capital. By News National Editorial Team Delhi Air Pollution Turns Severe as AQI Crosses 400 in Several Areas Delhi experienced another serious air pollution episode on November 13, with several monitoring stations recording Air Quality Index levels in the severe category. The deteriorating air quality raised concerns about public health, outdoor activities and the effectiveness of pollution-control measures in India's national capital. According to Central Pollution Control Board readings reported by Indian media, multiple areas recorded AQI levels above 400 during the morning. The figures underline the continuing challenge of managing air pollution in one of the world's most densely populated urban regions. AQI reaches severe category Several monitoring locations reported extremely poor air quality on Friday morning. According to readings published by Moneycontrol based on CPCB data: ITO recorded an AQI of 455 at 5:55 am. The area around AIIMS recorded 418 at 7:20 am. Akshardham recorded 414 at 5:25 am. Rajokri Border recorded 402 at 6:50 am. Dhaula Kuan recorded 128 at 6:30 am. These readings demonstrate that pollution levels varied significantly across the city. Under India's CPCB classification, an AQI between 401 and 500 is categorised as severe. The severe category indicates a serious risk to health, including for people who may not have existing respiratory conditions. Why air pollution is a major health concern Air pollution contains a mixture of particles and gases that can affect human health. Fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, is a major concern because these particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Exposure to polluted air can worsen respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Children, older adults and people with asthma or existing heart and lung conditions can be especially vulnerable. Long-term exposure has also been associated with increased risks of chronic respiratory disease and cardiovascular complications. What contributes to Delhi's pollution? Delhi's air pollution problem is influenced by several interacting sources. Vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial activity, road dust, waste burning and regional agricultural residue burning can contribute to pollution. Weather conditions also influence how pollutants disperse. During periods of low wind speed and atmospheric temperature inversion, pollutants can remain trapped close to the ground. This can result in rapidly worsening air quality even when emissions remain relatively unchanged. Impact on daily life Severe pollution can affect schools, offices, transport operations and outdoor activities. People may experience irritation of the eyes, coughing, breathing discomfort and worsening symptoms of existing respiratory conditions. Outdoor workers can face prolonged exposure because their jobs require them to remain outside. Health professionals generally advise people to reduce strenuous outdoor activity during severe pollution episodes and follow official health advisories. What authorities need to address Long-term improvements require coordinated action across transport, construction, industry, energy and waste management. Potential measures include: Improving public transport and reducing vehicle emissions. Strengthening construction-dust monitoring. Enforcing industrial pollution standards. Preventing open waste burning. Improving road-dust management. Coordinating pollution-control efforts across neighbouring states. Expanding reliable air-quality monitoring. Short-term emergency measures may help reduce exposure, but lasting improvements require consistent implementation of pollution-control policies. Conclusion Delhi's severe air pollution readings on November 13 demonstrate that the capital continues to face a significant environmental and public-health challenge. Reducing pollution will require coordinated action, stronger enforcement and long-term investment in cleaner transport, energy and urban infrastructure. Sources and references Moneycontrol – Delhi AQI readings on November 13, 2026, based on CPCB data. The New Indian Express – Delhi's air quality turns hazardous as AQI touches 494. The Indian Express – India news live updates, November 13, 2026. Central Pollution Control Board – Official website. Editorial note: AQI readings are time-specific and vary by monitoring station. These figures are morning readings, not a claim that every part of Delhi had the same AQI throughout the day.

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Barcelona clashes follow Spain's nationwide general strike, as millions protest against rising rents, housing shortages and the cost of living. Barcelona Protests Turn Violent After Massive Housing Demonstration; Spain's General Strike Sees More Than 3 Million Participants By News National Editorial Team Barcelona, Spain | November 13, 2026: Clashes broke out between police and protesters in Barcelona on Wednesday, November 11, following a massive demonstration against Spain's housing crisis, rising living costs and declining purchasing power. The demonstration was part of a nationwide 24-hour general strike, bringing workers, tenants' organisations, trade unions and activists onto the streets across Spain. The mobilisation was the country's first major general strike in 14 years. Hundreds of Thousands Join Barcelona Demonstration Barcelona witnessed one of the largest demonstrations of the day. According to the Tenants' Union, approximately 400,000 people participated in the city's demonstration. However, Barcelona's municipal police estimated the turnout at around 55,000. Protesters marched through central Barcelona, demanding affordable housing, better wages, stronger tenant protections and government action to address the rising cost of living. The demonstration attracted young people, workers, families and housing activists concerned about increasing rents and the difficulties of accessing affordable accommodation. Clashes Break Out Between Police and Protesters Although the main demonstration was largely peaceful, tensions escalated towards the end of the march. Groups of masked protesters reportedly broke away from the main demonstration, throwing objects and fireworks at police officers. Some participants damaged shopfronts and set rubbish containers and street furniture on fire. Catalonia's regional police, Mossos d'Esquadra, intervened to control the situation and disperse groups involved in the violence. According to Euronews, 20 people were arrested in Barcelona during the unrest. Nationwide, at least 115 people were arrested in connection with incidents during the general strike, according to subsequent reporting. The violence occurred after the larger demonstration had largely concluded. More Than Three Million Participate Across Spain The demonstrations were not limited to Barcelona. Spain experienced nationwide industrial action, with major protests and workplace stoppages in Madrid, Valencia, Bilbao, Zaragoza and other cities. Reuters reported that trade unions estimated more than three million people participated in the nationwide mobilisation, while union representatives separately reported approximately four million workers taking part in the strike. The demonstrations were supported by Spain's major trade unions, including Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) and the General Workers' Union (UGT), alongside the Tenants' Union and other civil society organisations. The campaign was organised around demands for better salaries, affordable housing and lower living costs. Housing Crisis Becomes a Major National Issue Housing affordability was one of the central concerns behind the mobilisation. Spain has experienced substantial increases in rental costs over the past decade, making it increasingly difficult for young people and lower-income households to find affordable accommodation. Tenants' organisations have demanded stronger protections against evictions, restrictions on excessive rent increases and more effective government action to expand affordable housing. Protesters also highlighted the widening gap between wages and living expenses, arguing that many workers are struggling to meet basic household costs despite being employed. Political Disagreement Over Housing Measures The demonstrations followed a political dispute over housing measures proposed by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's government. On October 2, opposition from the People's Party (PP), Vox and Junts helped block government housing proposals in Congress, contributing to the mobilisation organised by housing activists and trade unions. However, the parliamentary situation changed after the November 11 strike. On November 12, Spain's parliamentary Permanent Deputation approved one housing decree by 35 votes to 34, while a separate proposed measure was rejected. The approved package included additional protections for vulnerable tenants facing eviction and other housing-related provisions. The parliamentary developments highlighted the political divisions surrounding Spain's housing policies. Nationwide Strike Puts Pressure on Government The general strike has brought renewed attention to housing affordability, workers' purchasing power and economic inequality in Spain. While the demonstrations were largely peaceful across the country, incidents of violence in Barcelona and Madrid resulted in arrests and clashes with police. The mobilisation has also increased pressure on political parties to address housing and living-cost concerns as Spain approaches its November 29 general election. A Growing Debate Over Housing and Economic Security The events in Barcelona reflect wider concerns about housing affordability and living standards across Spain. For many demonstrators, the central demand was not limited to lower rents. They also called for better wages, stronger public services and greater economic security. The nationwide strike has placed these issues firmly at the centre of Spain's political and social debate. Sources and References Reuters: Millions join Spain housing strike as scores arrested in clashes Euronews: Spain holds its first general strike in 14 years amid mass protests and police charges Associated Press: Spain approves housing measures after huge protests EL PAÍS: Spain's unions call the first general strike in 14 years ARA: Barcelona mobilizes for the right to housing in a multitudinous demonstration Reuters: Spain approves one of housing decrees that triggered snap election Editorial Note: Protest attendance figures are estimates from different organisations and authorities. The 400,000 figure represents the Tenants' Union's estimate for Barcelona, not an independently confirmed count. Arrest figures refer to different geographical areas and should not be combined.

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Nvidia confirms Jensen Huang's resignation as CEO, appointing CFO Colette Kress as interim chief executive. By News National Editorial Team Nvidia Announces Historic Leadership Change as Jensen Huang Resigns Nvidia has announced a major leadership transition, confirming that co-founder Jensen Huang has resigned as president, chief executive officer and a member of the company's board, effective immediately. The announcement, dated November 12, 2026, marks a significant development for one of the world's most influential artificial intelligence and semiconductor companies. Nvidia's board appointed its executive vice-president and chief financial officer, Colette Kress, as interim chief executive officer while it begins searching for a permanent successor. The development has attracted international attention because Nvidia occupies a central position in the global artificial intelligence industry. Colette Kress takes interim leadership Colette Kress will serve as interim CEO while continuing her responsibilities as executive vice-president and chief financial officer. She joined Nvidia in September 2013 and has led its finance organisation during a period of major corporate expansion. Before joining Nvidia, Kress held senior finance positions at major technology companies, including Cisco and Microsoft. Her appointment places an experienced financial executive at the centre of Nvidia's leadership during an important period for the semiconductor sector. The board also appointed Harvey C. Jones as its first-ever chair. According to the company's announcement, the board has begun a search for a permanent chief executive and will consider both internal and external candidates. Why Nvidia matters to the global AI industry Nvidia has become a major supplier of advanced processors and computing platforms used to develop and operate artificial intelligence systems. Its graphics processing units are widely used in data centres, scientific computing, machine learning and generative AI applications. Technology companies, research institutions and cloud service providers depend on advanced computing hardware to train and deploy increasingly complex AI models. Nvidia's position in this market has made its leadership decisions important to investors, technology companies and governments. What happens to Nvidia's strategy? The company's board has indicated that operations, customer commitments and the product roadmap are expected to continue without interruption. That statement will be important for customers and partners that depend on Nvidia's technology for long-term infrastructure planning. However, the permanent leadership appointment will be closely watched because strategic decisions concerning AI chips, manufacturing partnerships, research investment and international markets could influence the company's future direction. Implications for the semiconductor industry The leadership transition comes at a time when competition in artificial intelligence hardware is intensifying. Companies are investing heavily in processors, networking equipment, data centres and energy infrastructure to support AI workloads. Nvidia's future leadership will need to address technological competition, supply-chain resilience, export restrictions and the increasing demand for computing capacity. The company will also need to maintain relationships with customers and manufacturing partners across international markets. What investors should watch Investors will likely monitor the company's next financial results, management communications, board decisions and permanent CEO appointment. Nvidia's third-quarter fiscal 2027 results were scheduled for November 17, according to its announcement. The financial results and management guidance could provide further insight into the company's operational outlook during the leadership transition. Conclusion Jensen Huang's resignation marks a major turning point for Nvidia. Colette Kress now assumes interim leadership while the board searches for a permanent CEO. Given Nvidia's importance to the global AI ecosystem, the transition will be closely followed by technology companies, investors and policymakers worldwide. Sources and references Nvidia official press release – Nvidia Announces CEO Transition, November 12, 2026. Reuters – Nvidia leadership developments. Nvidia Newsroom. Editorial note: The resignation and interim appointment are confirmed by Nvidia. Any reported personal or other allegations should be independently attributed and verified, not treated as the established reason for the resignation.

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Nvidia faces a leadership controversy as its board reportedly considers Jensen Huang's future amid allegations and China-related scrutiny. SAN FRANCISCO: Nvidia is facing an unexpected leadership crisis after reports emerged that the company's board was considering the future of Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang amid controversy surrounding his personal life and the company's business interests in China. According to a Reuters report published on November 12, Nvidia's board was scheduled to discuss whether Huang should continue as the company's chief executive. The development represents a significant change for a company that has become one of the world's most influential players in artificial intelligence and semiconductor technology. Board discussions raise questions about leadership The reported board discussions followed media reports concerning allegations of two extramarital relationships involving Huang. The allegations have attracted considerable attention because of Huang's position as the leader of a globally important technology company. Nvidia's board had previously expressed confidence in its chief executive and leadership team. Under the company's corporate governance rules, Huang can be removed through a majority vote of directors. Reuters reported that Nvidia's board has 11 directors, with all but Huang classified as independent. China-related controversy adds pressure The leadership developments have also attracted attention amid a separate controversy involving Nvidia's business relationship with China and allegations surrounding semiconductor technology and espionage. The issue is particularly sensitive because advanced AI chips have become an important part of US national security and international technology competition. Washington has introduced restrictions affecting exports of advanced semiconductor products to China, while US policymakers continue debating the balance between commercial interests and national security. Market reaction and investor concerns Nvidia shares came under pressure following reports that the company could be considering a leadership change. Investors are closely monitoring the situation because Huang has played a central role in Nvidia's expansion into artificial intelligence, accelerated computing and data-centre technology. Any unexpected leadership transition could raise questions about the company's future strategy, management continuity and investor confidence. What happens next? The company's board discussions and any official announcement will be important in determining whether the reported controversy results in a change in leadership. Nvidia's future direction will also depend on its ability to maintain its competitive position in the global AI semiconductor market. Conclusion The reported leadership controversy presents an important test for Nvidia at a time when demand for AI computing infrastructure is transforming the global technology industry. Investors and technology companies will closely follow any official decisions concerning Huang's position. Sources: Reuters – How Nvidia's Jensen Huang got entangled in a China chip and spy scandal Reuters syndicated report – Nvidia board meets to decide CEO Huang's future as leadership crisis deepens

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India records a 38% decline in tuberculosis deaths since 2015, according to the WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2026. By News National Editorial Team India Records 38% Decline in Tuberculosis Deaths, WHO Report Highlights Progress India has recorded a 38% reduction in tuberculosis-related deaths since 2015, marking significant progress in its efforts to control one of the country's major public health challenges. The achievement was highlighted in the World Health Organization's Global Tuberculosis Report 2026, released on November 12, according to India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The report also highlights a 94% treatment success rate among patients with drug-susceptible tuberculosis. The figures indicate improvements in disease detection, access to treatment, public health monitoring and patient support. TB mortality falls significantly According to the government announcement, India's estimated tuberculosis mortality rate declined from 28 deaths per lakh population in 2015 to 18 deaths per lakh population in 2025. The 38% reduction exceeds the reported global decline of 35% over the same period. Tuberculosis remains an important public health concern, particularly in countries with large populations and unequal access to healthcare. The disease primarily affects the lungs but can also involve other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when a person with infectious pulmonary TB releases bacteria through coughing or sneezing. Early diagnosis and completion of prescribed treatment are essential to reducing transmission and preventing complications. Nationwide screening and early diagnosis India's TB control efforts have increasingly focused on identifying infections before patients develop advanced symptoms. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan has covered more than 25 crore people. The government also reported that more than 11 crore chest X-rays and approximately three crore molecular tests had been conducted under intensified screening efforts. These activities have helped identify cases that might otherwise remain undiagnosed. The government reported 48.64 lakh TB cases detected, including 14.97 lakh asymptomatic cases, through intensified screening. Technology supports TB detection Medical technology has become an increasingly important component of tuberculosis screening. AI-enabled chest X-ray analysis can help identify suspicious abnormalities and prioritise patients for further diagnostic testing. Molecular diagnostic tests can provide important information about the presence of tuberculosis bacteria and, depending on the test, drug resistance. However, technology does not replace clinical assessment. Confirmatory testing and medical evaluation remain important parts of diagnosis. Treatment success and nutritional support The government reported a 94% treatment success rate for patients with drug-susceptible TB. Successful treatment requires patients to complete the prescribed course of medicines under medical supervision. Interrupting treatment can contribute to treatment failure and drug resistance. India has also expanded nutritional assistance and community support through initiatives including the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana and Ni-kshay Mitra programme. Nutritional support can help address food insecurity among patients and improve their ability to continue treatment. Challenges remain Despite the progress, India continues to face significant challenges in its tuberculosis elimination efforts. These include delayed diagnosis, treatment interruptions, drug-resistant TB, stigma, malnutrition and unequal access to healthcare. People living in crowded environments and communities with limited healthcare access can face additional barriers to timely diagnosis. Sustained investment in diagnostic facilities, treatment services and public awareness will remain necessary. What the report means for India The latest figures represent an important public health milestone, but a decline in deaths does not mean tuberculosis has been eliminated. Continued surveillance, early detection, quality treatment and support for patients will be necessary to maintain progress. The WHO report also provides an opportunity to assess India's performance against international TB reduction targets. Conclusion India's reported 38% decline in tuberculosis deaths demonstrates progress in national disease-control efforts. The next challenge will be maintaining these improvements, identifying undetected infections and ensuring that every diagnosed patient has access to effective and uninterrupted treatment. Sources and references Press Information Bureau – India Makes Major Strides Towards TB Elimination, November 12, 2026. WHO Global Tuberculosis Reports. National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, India. Editorial note: The 38% figure is the reduction in estimated TB mortality since 2015, not a reduction in the number of people currently living with TB.

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Discover how China built the 337-room InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland inside an 88-metre-deep quarry, featuring underwater rooms and remarkable engineering. China Built an Extraordinary Luxury Hotel 88 Metres Below Ground: Here's How Engineers Made It Possible By News National Editorial Team Shanghai, China: Imagine staying in a luxury hotel surrounded by towering rock walls, overlooking a massive artificial lake, with underwater guest rooms offering views of aquatic life. This is not a scene from a science-fiction movie. It is a real architectural achievement in China. Known as the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, the extraordinary five-star hotel has been constructed inside an abandoned quarry approximately 88 metres deep in Songjiang, Shanghai. Instead of building a skyscraper towards the sky, engineers and architects created a structure that descends into the earth. The hotel officially opened on November 15, 2018, attracting international attention for its unusual design and ambitious engineering. 1. From an Abandoned Quarry to a Luxury Hotel The project began with an unusual challenge: transforming a disused industrial quarry into a luxury hospitality destination. The site had enormous vertical rock walls and a water-filled bottom, making conventional construction methods unsuitable. Architect Martin Jochman developed the original design concept in 2006, working with engineering and architectural teams to turn the challenging landscape into an extraordinary hotel. The development was led by Shimao Group, while InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) operates the property. Rather than filling the quarry with soil or constructing a conventional building above ground, the design team decided to use the existing landscape as an integral part of the architecture. 2. An 18-Level Hotel Built Downwards The building's design is particularly unusual. The hotel has 18 levels, with just two levels above the quarry rim and 16 descending along the quarry walls. Its lowest two levels are underwater, creating one of its most distinctive attractions. The property features approximately 337 guest rooms, along with restaurants, conference facilities, recreational spaces and other luxury amenities. The building resembles an inverted skyscraper, with much of its structure hidden below the surrounding ground level. 3. How Engineers Stabilised the Quarry Walls One of the biggest construction challenges was ensuring that the existing quarry walls remained stable. The steep rock faces required extensive engineering work before the hotel structure could be constructed safely. The construction team stabilised the surrounding cliff faces and completed major foundation and substructure work at the quarry floor. The design also had to account for the relationship between the building, the surrounding rock and the water-filled quarry. These measures were essential to creating a safe foundation for a structure built in such an unusual location. 4. Building Two Underwater Levels Perhaps the most fascinating feature is the hotel's underwater section. The two lowest levels are submerged beneath the quarry lake. One level includes guest rooms and public areas facing an underwater aquarium environment. Guests can experience a distinctive underwater setting, with aquatic life visible through specially designed viewing areas. Constructing these spaces required careful attention to waterproofing, water pressure, drainage and water quality. Unlike a conventional underground basement, these spaces had to operate safely while positioned beneath the water level. 5. A Glass Waterfall and Innovative Architecture Another striking feature is the central glass structure, designed to resemble a waterfall cascading down the quarry walls. It houses the hotel's vertical circulation and observation lifts, connecting different levels of the property. The building also incorporates a cantilevered glass-floor viewing walkway, allowing visitors to look down into the quarry. The architectural concept combines modern materials with the natural rock landscape, creating a hotel that appears integrated into its surroundings. 6. Earthquake Safety, Fire Protection and Drainage Constructing a building inside a deep quarry presented engineering challenges beyond ordinary high-rise construction. The project required solutions involving: Earthquake resistance: The structure had to accommodate seismic movement and the unusual conditions of a building connected to its surrounding rock environment. Fire safety: Emergency protection and evacuation required careful planning across multiple underground levels. Water management: Drainage, water circulation and water quality were essential because of the quarry lake. Structural stability: The relationship between the steel structure, foundations and quarry walls required specialised engineering. Environmental considerations: The design incorporated the existing landscape and used the quarry's natural microclimate as part of its environmental approach. These engineering requirements made the project particularly challenging compared with conventional hotel developments. 7. Turning an Industrial Site into a Tourism Destination Beyond its architectural significance, the project demonstrates how abandoned industrial spaces can potentially be transformed into tourism and hospitality destinations. The hotel incorporates landscaped areas, recreational facilities, swimming pools, restaurants and conference spaces. Its design also makes use of the quarry's rock formations, water and surrounding natural environment rather than completely replacing the existing landscape. This approach highlights the potential of adaptive reuse in architecture, where previously industrial or abandoned sites receive a new purpose. A Landmark in Modern Engineering The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland demonstrates how architecture and engineering can transform an unusual and challenging location into a functioning luxury destination. Built inside an 88-metre-deep abandoned quarry, the hotel combines underground construction, underwater hospitality spaces, structural engineering and innovative architectural design. It is a reminder that some of the world's most extraordinary buildings do not necessarily have to reach towards the sky. Sometimes, remarkable architecture can be created by building downwards. Sources and References JADE+QA – Project Architect: Shimao Wonderland Intercontinental – Project Details and Engineering Apple TV – Discovery Documentary: Impossible Engineering: Wonderland Hotel (Season 5, Episode 6) TVmaze: Underwater Mega Tower – Documentary Information Editorial Note: The 88-metre measurement refers to the depth of the abandoned quarry. The hotel is not entirely underwater; its two lowest levels are submerged, while the remaining levels extend down the quarry walls.

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Text Hip: How Gen Z in South Korea Is Making Reading Fashionable Again, While India Rediscovers Its Love for Books By News National Editorial Team In an era dominated by Instagram Reels, TikTok videos and YouTube Shorts, a surprising cultural trend is gaining attention in South Korea. Young people, particularly members of Generation Z, are rediscovering the pleasure of reading books and turning it into a fashionable social activity. Known as “Text Hip,” the trend is making reading an important part of youth culture. Rather than treating books only as educational tools, young readers are embracing them as expressions of personal identity, creativity and lifestyle. Visiting bookstores, attending book fairs, joining reading groups, exchanging books and sharing favourite titles on social media have become part of this growing reading culture. South Korea's Young Readers Lead the Trend South Korea's 2025 National Reading Survey, released by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in March 2026, provides an interesting picture of the country's reading habits. According to the survey, 75.3% of people aged 19–29 read or listened to at least one general book during the 12-month survey period. This represented an increase of 0.8 percentage points compared with 2023. However, the overall adult reading rate stood at just 38.5%, down 4.5 percentage points from the previous survey. The figures highlight an interesting contrast: although reading participation among young adults has improved slightly, the broader adult reading population continues to decline. The survey also found that e-books are particularly popular among younger readers. The e-book reading rate among people in their 20s reached 59.4%, compared with 45.1% for printed books. These findings suggest that reading is evolving rather than disappearing, with digital formats creating additional ways for younger generations to engage with books. What Makes Text Hip Popular? The expression “Text Hip” combines the ideas of text and being fashionable or culturally relevant. It reflects a change in how young people perceive reading. Books are increasingly becoming a way to communicate personality, interests and individual taste. Young readers share photographs of their books, recommend authors, visit aesthetically designed bookstores and participate in reading-related social events. The trend gained wider attention in 2024 following the international recognition of South Korean author Han Kang, who received the Nobel Prize in Literature. Her achievement brought renewed attention to Korean literature and helped create wider interest in reading and literary culture. South Korean cities have also experimented with outdoor reading activities and public libraries. Seoul's outdoor reading programmes, including events along the Cheonggyecheon stream, have helped bring books into everyday public spaces. India Is Also Experiencing a Reading Revival A similar development is becoming visible in India, where reading communities and silent reading meetups are attracting people looking for alternatives to screen-based entertainment. In cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi and Chennai, readers are gathering in parks, cafés, bookstores and other public spaces to spend time reading together. Unlike traditional book clubs, many silent reading groups do not require participants to read the same book. People simply bring their own books, spend time reading quietly and sometimes exchange recommendations or conversations afterwards. Communities such as Cubbon Reads in Bengaluru and Lodhi Reads in Delhi demonstrate how reading can become a shared social experience without requiring formal membership or structured discussions. Book fairs, literary festivals, independent bookstores and online reading communities are also helping readers discover new authors and connect with people who share similar interests. Can Reading Compete with Short-Form Videos? The growing popularity of reading communities does not necessarily mean that young people are abandoning social media or digital entertainment. Instead, social media can also help promote books. Readers use digital platforms to discover authors, share recommendations, discuss stories and encourage others to develop reading habits. The South Korean experience demonstrates that digital culture and traditional reading can exist together. E-books and audiobooks also provide alternatives for people who prefer reading on smartphones or listening while travelling. However, the South Korean survey highlights an important challenge: the overall adult reading rate remains low despite the increased interest among younger people. A New Opportunity for the Next Generation The Text Hip trend offers an encouraging reminder that books continue to have a place in a world increasingly shaped by digital entertainment. For India, the growth of silent reading communities, book exchanges and public reading events presents an opportunity to encourage young people to develop stronger reading habits. Schools, colleges, libraries, publishers and local communities can support this development by organising accessible reading programmes and creating welcoming spaces for readers. Ultimately, the future of reading may not depend on choosing between printed books and digital screens. It may depend on making reading enjoyable, accessible and socially engaging for the next generation. News National will continue to follow emerging global trends shaping young people, culture, technology and society. Sources and References South Korea Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism – 2025 National Reading Survey. South Korea Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism – Text Hip: How Korean Digital Natives Made Reading Cool Again. The Korea Times – Viral Text Hip Trend Boosts Bookstore Sales. The Hindu / Hindustan Times coverage – Silent Reading Groups in India. afaqs – How Silent Reading Groups Are Reigniting India's Love of Books. Editorial note: South Korea's reading statistics refer to the survey's annual reading rate, which includes print books, e-books and audiobooks. The figures should not be interpreted as print-book readership alone.

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