India welcomes new Vice President
On 12 September 2025, C P Radhakrishnan became India’s 15th Vice President, sworn in by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The 67-year-old, a veteran BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, won the election with 452 votes, beating Opposition candidate B Sudershan Reddy by 152. His victory followed Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden resignation due to health issues. Radhakrishnan, dressed in a red kurta, took the oath in English, vowing to uphold nationalistic ideals and work toward a developed India by 2047. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries, including former Vice Presidents, attended the ceremony. Radhakrishnan’s win, backed by the NDA’s strong parliamentary majority, sparked talk of cross-voting from the Opposition. He resigned as Maharashtra’s governor before taking office, marking a new chapter in his four-decade political career.
Charlie Kirk’s take on Pahalgam attack stirs debate
Charlie Kirk, a US conservative commentator, sparked controversy with his remarks on the recent Pahalgam terror attack in India, calling it “not our war.” The attack, part of Operation Sindoor, saw militants target civilians in Kashmir, raising tensions. Kirk’s statement, made on his podcast, argued the US should avoid involvement in India’s regional conflicts, focusing instead on domestic issues. His comments drew sharp criticism from Indian officials, who called them “insensitive” amid rising casualties. Supporters, however, praised his push for non-intervention. The Pahalgam incident, linked to cross-border militancy, has intensified India’s security measures. Kirk’s remarks highlight the global divide on foreign policy, with some seeing them as a call for restraint, others as dismissive of India’s struggle. This debate underscores the challenge of addressing terrorism in a connected world, where words carry weight far beyond borders.
Nepal’s turmoil sends migrants back from India
Political unrest in Nepal is driving thousands of migrant workers back from India, where many sought better livelihoods. Recent protests and economic instability in Kathmandu have left Nepali migrants worried about their families and future. India, home to millions of Nepali workers in construction and hospitality, now sees reverse migration as people return to support loved ones. The BBC reports that border towns are crowded with families carrying belongings, uncertain about what lies ahead. Nepal’s government faces pressure to stabilise the economy, but job scarcity fuels the exodus. For many, leaving India means abandoning steady income, yet staying feels riskier with news of violence back home. This human tide reflects the deep ties between India and Nepal, where open borders allow free movement but also expose vulnerabilities when crises hit. The situation remains fluid, with no quick fix in sight.
Gukesh’s tough run at FIDE Grand Swiss
Indian chess prodigy D Gukesh faced a rough patch at the FIDE Grand Swiss, suffering his third straight loss on 11 September 2025. The 19-year-old, a world championship contender, was visibly frustrated, seen with his head in hands during a match that left fans stunned. Social media buzzed with clips of his struggles, with one user lamenting, “This is not him.” Gukesh, known for his calm precision, couldn’t find his rhythm against top-tier opponents. The Grand Swiss, a key qualifier for the world championship cycle, tests even the best. Despite his losses, Gukesh’s supporters remain hopeful, citing his youth and past comebacks. His journey has inspired millions in India, where chess is booming. For now, Gukesh needs to regroup, but his talent suggests he’ll bounce back. This setback is just one move in a much bigger game.
Australia’s dancing spiders reveal evolution’s secrets
Australia’s peacock spiders, tiny creatures known for their vibrant colours and dance-like mating rituals, are unlocking clues about evolution. A new study, published on 10 September 2025, explores how these spiders form new species through “mystery DNA” in their genomes. Found in Australia’s outback, these arachnids use elaborate displays to attract mates, with males flashing iridescent patterns. Researchers found that genetic variations, previously overlooked, drive rapid speciation, creating diverse spider populations. This discovery, detailed in Moneycontrol, suggests environmental pressures shape their evolution faster than expected. The spiders’ dances aren’t just for show—they’re key to survival, ensuring only the fittest pass on their genes. Scientists hope this insight could shed light on broader evolutionary patterns. For now, these tiny dancers remind us how nature’s smallest creatures can reveal big truths about life on Earth.
