#study

6 stories

Politics

18updates

helpmoreover

Over 1.26 lakh receive medical aid in Prakasam district

Collector Rajakumari Ganiya inspects feeder-channel restoration and minor irrigation tank works under the ‘Jaladhara-Jalaharathi’ scheme at Tangadancha in Jupadu Bungalow mandal, Nandyal district, on Tuesday. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement Nandyal district administration has set a target of completing the works taken up under the ‘Jaladhara-Jalaharathi’ programme before July 1. Collector Rajakumari Ganiya had directed the officials concerned to meet the targets for completing the works, third-party verification and documentation of success stories.According to officials, 2,103 works were sanctioned in the district under the initiative; of them, 1,587 have been completed so far, and 516 are pending.As rainfall is expected in the first week of July, officials were asked to draw up a special action plan to complete the remaining works. She said a Central Water Commission team would carry out third-party verification of water conservation structures built under NREGS as part of the ‘Jal Sanchay-Jal Bhagidari’ programme. Officials were checking whether the photos uploaded online matched the structures on the ground, she said. The State government’s intelligence wing and special third-party teams are also closely monitoring the works.The Collector warned against marking tasks ‘complete’ in the online system before they were finished on the ground, or compromising on quality in the rush to complete them. She also wanted no discrepancies between field-level reports and online data.Officials found that Rudravaram mandal had the highest number of pending tasks, 52, followed by Dhone (46) and Kolimigundla (43); the officials concerned were advised to pay special attention to pending works in other mandals as well.“While recording the success stories of the ‘Jaladhara’ programme, the documentation should include not only the details of the works but also the tangible results achieved through them,” Ms. Rajakumari told officials. The extent to which the ayacut (command area) had been stabilised or expanded through the development of tanks should also be documented, she said.The improvement in groundwater levels and the benefits to farmers from the increased capacity of the tanks should also be documented. Published - June 23, 2026 04:26 pm IST

The HinduJun 23

Read

Politics

unveilswesternstudy

Study unveils new fish species in Western Ghats, solves evolutionary riddle

Eechathalakenda incognita A team of scientists has discovered a new fish species and successfully resolved a decades-old evolutionary mystery surrounding one of the most elusive aquatic lineages in the Western Ghats.Published in the journal Systematics and Biodiversity, the study details the unexpected discovery of Eechathalakenda incognita, a new species of cyprinid fish (Torinae), described from various streams inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This newly described species had been confused with Eechathalakenda ophicephala for the last 70 years. Both species have restricted distribution and face habitat threats, suggesting a high risk of extinction and that they are an urgent priority for conservation efforts.Eechathalakenda incognita is the ninth point-endemic fish species (restricted to a single location in the world) to be identified within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This discovery also marks the reserve as one of the most critical sanctuaries for freshwater fish conservation, not just in India, but across the entire Asian continent.The genus Eechathalakenda was originally established in 1999 for a solitary, enigmatic fish species first described in 1941 from the Pamba River in Kerala. For over eighty years, the fish remained largely invisible to science, with its existence noted only in brief regional checklists that lacked proper taxonomic verification, photographs, or preserved specimens.Driven by a quest to locate this elusive creature, a team of researchers—Swetha Chandra, Rajeev Raghavan, Ravimohanan Abhilash, Ralf Britz, Ryan Babu and Neelesh Dahanukar—from St. Stephens College, Pathanapuram; Christian College, Chengannur; KUFOS, Kochi; and Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Delhi NCR conducted extensive fieldwork in the remote, high-altitude headwaters of the Pamba and Periyar rivers. Upon analysing the physical characteristics and DNA of the newly collected specimens, they realised they were looking at two completely distinct species that had been confused as one for the last 70 years.Distinctive characteristicsUsing advanced mitochondrial DNA sequencing, the team mapped the complete mitogenome of the hidden species, officially naming it Eechathalakenda incognita in reference to its long-running scientific anonymity. The newly identified Periyar Channa Barb is visually and genetically distinct from its sister species, E. ophicephala. While E. ophicephala sports rhomboid-shaped scales, the new species features circular scales near its upper body, alongside a unique dark lateral stripe, a different count of fin rays, and a substantial 4.9%-5.3% genetic variation. Crucially, the genetic data also allowed researchers to firmly place the entire genus within the cyprinid subfamily Torinae, finally providing a definitive evolutionary home for this ancient lineage.Despite the excitement of the discovery, scientists are sounding an urgent alarm regarding the survival of both species. Their geographic distributions are exceptionally narrow; E. ophicephala is strictly confined to Pamba river headwaters over 1,000 metres above sea level, while E. incognita is isolated to specific fast-flowing, rocky streams inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Because they are confined to such restricted habitats, localised threats like climate shifts and habitat degradation put both fish at an extreme risk of extinction. Published - June 09, 2026 05:55 pm IST

The HinduJun 9

Read

Politics

5updates

urgesgovtcpim

ED raids former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s houses in CMRL pay-off case

As Kerala awaits the UDF government’s white paper on State finances, a new study has suggested that the government should actively pursue measures designed to broaden the tax base, optimise non-tax revenue mobilisation and improve tax compliance while building on the State’s structural strengths to boost the economy.The study, ‘Kerala Fiscal Consensus Forum 2026-31 - a non-partisan academic initiative,’ prepared by the Department of Commerce, Sacred Heart College, Thevara, urges the government to explore avenues such as ‘Kerala Diaspora bonds,’ and - in the case of local bodies - municipal bonds. Further, the government should explore fee revision exercises across departments to increase non-tax revenues, user charges for higher-end government services and asset monetisation to up the State’s revenues.Observing that Kerala stands at a ‘critical fiscal inflection point,’ it states that “The most fundamental long-term remedy for Kerala’s fiscal deficit is substantially enhancing own revenue mobilisation. Kerala ranks among the lowest States in own-tax revenue as a percentage of GSDP, despite being one of the highest in per capita private consumption expenditure.” The study envisions ‘Kerala diaspora bonds’ as tax-efficient, RBI-compliant instruments through which NRIs can invest directly in specific infrastructure or social projects.The document was handed over to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan recently, Tessa Mary Jose, Dean, Department of Commerce, said.The ‘single largest structural driver’ of Kerala’s fiscal deficit, according to the study, is the disproportionate share of committed expenditure, salaries, pensions and interest payments in its total revenue expenditure. “In 2024-25, Kerala’s committed expenditure amounted to ₹97,978 crore, which is approximately 71% of its estimated revenue receipts,” it notes.In revising fees to enhance non-tax revenues, the priority sectors can be ports and registration, building permits, mining levies and forest produce, the study suggests. Likewise, user charges can be levied for higher-end government services, such as Supplyco premium outlets, higher-grade hospital rooms and specialised skill training.In the case of debt management, the study observes that public debt, including on-balance-sheet borrowings and the off-balance-sheet exposure through Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), calls for a “coherent and transparent medium-term management strategy.” It recommends an independent review of KIIFB-funded projects and the formation of a State Debt Management Office within the Finance Department. Further, the Kerala Fiscal Responsibility Act should be amended to incorporate KIIFB and other off-budget vehicles within the definition of fiscal deficit for FRBM compliance purposes, in line with evolving national best practices, it says.The study also suggests measures for tapping the full potential of the MSME and manufacturing sectors, tourism, knowledge economy and digital services. Published - May 27, 2026 06:55 pm IST

The HinduMay 27

Read

Politics

2updates

assemblycommitteeswatch

Watch: DMK MLA and LoP Udhayanidhi Stalin’s maiden speech in T.N. assembly

Uttar Pradesh Assembly at Vidhan Bhavan, in Lucknow. File. | Photo Credit: ANI The Uttar Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday (May 13, 2026) suspended all pre-scheduled study tours of its various parliamentary committees until further orders, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s austerity, officials said.According to an office memorandum issued by the Assembly Secretariat, all study tour programmes have been put on hold with immediate effect in view of national interest and the prevailing circumstances. The decision was taken on the directions of Uttar Pradesh Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana.“Respecting the appeal made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Assembly has decided to suspend the study tours of parliamentary committees so that all resources and arrangements can be properly utilised in accordance with national priorities,” Mr. Mahana said.He further said it was the responsibility of public representatives and institutions to participate in every call made in the national interest and demonstrate sensitivity and responsibility, as per the circumstances.The orders issued by the Assembly Secretariat’s Principal Secretary, Pradeep Kumar Dubey, have come into immediate effect, officials said.On May 10, Mr. Modi issued a national call for austerity, urging citizens to cut fuel use, postpone gold buying and foreign travel, and even return to work-from-home arrangement due to mounting economic pressure caused by the West Asia crisis. Published - May 14, 2026 06:20 am IST

The HinduMay 14

Read

Economy

17updates

morepressshooting

Quote of the Day by Walter White from Breaking Bad: ‘I am not in danger, I am the danger.…’

The lesson from Franz Kafka's quote is to choose ethical principles over societal acceptance. By doing what is right, individuals can foster credibility and long-term respect, while navigating the challenges of conformity in today's society.A century after his death, Kafka still has allure, and not just among social-media addicts. ./File Photo(REUTERS) Quote of the day: “Start with what is right rather than what is acceptable” — Franz KafkaEvery day presents moments when we must choose between doing what is right and doing what is merely convenient. Kafka’s quote offers a powerful reminder that integrity should come before approval. It encourages us to base our decisions on principles, not on what others may find comfortable or popular.What does Franz Kafka's quote mean?This quote urges us to put ethics and truth ahead of social acceptance. “What is acceptable” refers to actions or decisions that fit in with common opinion, workplace culture, family expectations, or public pressure. These choices may help us avoid conflict, but they are not always the most honest or fair.“What is right,” on the other hand, points to actions grounded in values such as honesty, justice, and responsibility. Doing what is right may be more difficult. It can require courage to speak up, challenge unfair practices, or stand alone when others disagree.For example, imagine a student who notices cheating during an exam. Staying silent may feel more acceptable because it avoids confrontation. Reporting it, however, may be the right thing to do because it protects fairness. Similarly, in the workplace, raising concerns about unethical behaviour may be uncomfortable, but it reflects integrity.This quote also teaches that long-term respect is built on principled decisions. Choices based solely on acceptance can bring short-term peace, but they may lead to regret if they compromise personal values. By starting with what is right, people build trust, self-respect, and credibility.The message is especially relevant in today’s world, where social media and public opinion can pressure individuals to conform. Kafka reminds us that moral clarity should guide us more than popularity. True leadership often begins when someone chooses principle over convenience.In practical terms, this quote encourages us to ask a simple question before making an important decision: “Is this the right thing to do?” If the answer is yes, acceptance should be secondary.“Start with what is right rather than what is acceptable” is a timeless lesson in character and courage. It reminds us that doing the right thing is not always easy, but it is the foundation of integrity. Whether in school, work, or personal life, this principle helps us make decisions we can stand by with confidence.Who was Franz Kafka?Born on July 3, 1883, Franz Kafka was a German-language writer born in Prague, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential literary figures of the 20th century.Kafka is best known for works such as The Metamorphosis, The Trial, and The Castle. His writing explores themes of alienation, bureaucracy, anxiety, and the struggle of individuals against confusing systems of authority.Although Kafka published only a small portion of his work during his lifetime, his friend Max Brod preserved and published many of his manuscripts after his death. Today, Kafka’s writings and quotations continue to resonate with readers around the world because of their insight into human dilemmas and moral choices.He died on June 3, 1924.About the AuthorGarvit BhiraniGarvit Bhirani is a journalist based in Gurugram. He is a Deputy Chief Content Producer at LiveMint, where he covers national and international news stories, focusing on accuracy and compelling storytelling for readers. With a total of six years of experience in journalism, he has previously worked with Vaco Binary Semantics for Google, taking on the role of news curation lead, and reported f

LiveMintMay 13

Read

Technology

moreofferedharvard

In Harvard study, AI offered more accurate diagnoses than emergency room doctors

A new study examines how large language models perform in a variety of medical contexts, including real emergency room cases — where at least one model seemed to be more accurate than human doctors. The study was published this week in Science and comes from a research team led by physicians and computer scientists at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The researchers said they conducted a variety of experiments to measure how OpenAI’s models compared to human physicians. In one experiment, researchers focused on 76 patients who came into the Beth Israel emergency room, comparing the diagnoses offered by two attending physicians to those generated by OpenAI’s o1 and 4o models. These diagnoses were assessed by two other attending physicians, who did not know which ones came from humans and which came from AI. “At each diagnostic touchpoint, o1 either performed nominally better than or on par with the two attending physicians and 4o,” the study said, adding that the differences “were especially pronounced at the first diagnostic touchpoint (initial ER triage), where there is the least information available about the patient and the most urgency to make the correct decision.” In Harvard Medical School’s press release about the study, the researchers emphasized that they did not “pre-process the data at all” — the AI models were presented with the same information that was available in the electronic medical records at the time of each diagnosis. With that information, the o1 model managed to offer “the exact or very close diagnosis” in 67% of triage cases, compared to one physician who had the exact or close diagnosis 55% of the time, and to the other who hit the mark 50% of the time. “We tested the AI model against virtually every benchmark, and it eclipsed both prior models and our physician baselines,” said Arjun Manrai, who heads an AI lab at Harvard Medical School and is one of the study’s lead authors, in the press release. Techcrunch event San Francisco, CA | October 13-15, 2026 To be clear, the study didn’t claim that AI is ready to make real life-or-death decisions in the emergency room. Instead, it said the findings show an “urgent need for prospective trials to evaluate these technologies in real-world patient care settings.” The researchers also noted that they only studied how models performed when provided with text-based information, and that “existing studies suggest that current foundation models are more limited in reasoning over nontext inputs.” Adam Rodman, a Beth Israel doctor who’s also one of the study’s lead authors, told the Guardian that there’s “no formal framework right now for accountability” around AI diagnoses, and that patients still “want humans to guide them through life or death decisions [and] to guide them through challenging treatment decisions”. When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence. Anthony Ha is TechCrunch’s weekend editor. Previously, he worked as a tech reporter at Adweek, a senior editor at VentureBeat, a local government reporter at the Hollister Free Lance, and vice president of content at a VC firm. He lives in New York City. You can contact or verify outreach from Anthony by emailing anthony.ha@techcrunch.com. View Bio

TechCrunchMay 3

Read

You’ve read everything. Check back for new stories.