Diabetic drug metformin found to act on brain

A study published in Science Advances by Baylor College of Medicine has uncovered a hidden brain pathway that helps explain how metformin lowers blood sugar, offering fresh insight into a medicine used for over six decades. For years, metformin was believed to act mainly on the liver and gut. The new research shows it also works through the ventromedial hypothalamus — a small but crucial brain region that controls hunger, energy use and glucose balance.

Fertilizer stock ample, working to ensure supply intact: Chouhan

NCERT reset, AI push: Pradhan spells out education roadmap

On the recent controversy involving UGC regulations aimed at maintaining standards, quality and equity in Indian higher education, Pradhan refrained from detailed comment, noting the matter is sub judice. “The govt’s responsibility is to ensure that no one faces injustice or discrimination. We will abide by whatever directions court issues,” he said. Outlining the ministry’s broader priorities, Pradhan said the education system currently serves around 30 crore students, placing significant responsibility on policymakers.

Freedom of navigation important for global economic security: EAM Jaishankar

Jaishankar said on X he raised Global South’s concerns about energy challenges, fertiliser supplies and food security in the session on global governance. “The uncertainties arising from the conflict in West Asia only make a stronger case for more resilient trade corridors and supply chains,” he said. Jaishankar said on X India’s FTAs with the EU, EFTA members and the UK have enhanced the utility of IMEC.

Defence, security at core of India-US ties: Sergio Gor

In an interview with the US embassy publication, Span magazine, the ambassador also spoke about the significance of Quad as he predicted further strengthening of defence ties. “India is a Major Defence Partner, and defence cooperation is one of the brightest spots in our bilateral relationship. We also strengthen US-India military interoperability through participation in military exercises such as Malabar, Tiger Triumph, and Cope India,” said Gor.

Jan Vishwas bill moots fine, jail for grabbing govt land

The bill — introduced in Lok Sabha on Friday — proposes to amend Section-11 of the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act that at present provides for six months’ jail or with Rs 5,000 penalty or both. As per the proposal, the fine would be 5% of land value for every year of occupation or both — penalty and jail. Officials said this would deter encroachment and check land grabbing.

Tiger Woods faces another scary car crash before Masters decision

Tiger Woods was involved in a rollover car crash in Jupiter Island, Florida, on Friday afternoon. Early reports from witnesses suggest he appeared fine, but officials have not confirmed his condition yet. The incident is under investigation. The timing is important as Woods is expected to decide soon on playing in the Masters.

Unite to face West Asia crisis, PM tells CMs; urges to boost people’sconfidence

While he focused on preparing for prolonged disruption of supply lines, Modi also conveyed assurance about the country being in good stead, saying “efforts...in recent years to strengthen India’s economic and supply systems have proved beneficial”. In his virtual meeting with CMs — except those of Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry where assembly polls are due next month — on Friday, PM Modi said while addressing a challenge is a shared responsibility.

Govt slashes excise duty on petrol, diesel to shield consumers, oil companies

The windfall tax will also help the Centre partly offset the impact of the excise duty cut. Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs chairman Vivek Chaturvedi said the windfall tax on exports will result in a gain of about Rs 1,500 crore in the first fortnight while the govt will have to forgo over Rs 7,000 crore in revenue because of the excise duty cut. He said the export tax will be reviewed fortnightly.

High-altitude unit spawned by Pahalgam attack, trained by AP’s Greyhounds

Snow Leopards were raised to strengthen high-altitude operations, including mountain tops and ridges, the official said. The Markhor batches are trained for forests and rugged mountainous areas long used by terrorists as hideouts. Its name is derived from a Persian term meaning “snake eater,” symbolising agility and resilience. Both units are equipped with modern weapons and communication systems.

Hydel power projects in J&K on fast track after Indus treaty abeyance: Omar

India last year placed the IWT in abeyance after the Pahalgam terror attack as part of a series of measures announced by PM Narendra Modi, including the suspension of the decades-old water-sharing pact. The treaty was signed between India and Pakistan in 1960 for sharing of Indus river system waters. According to the treaty, India got the full rights for utilization of waters of the three eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas and Satluj — while Pakistan got rights over the three western rivers, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum.

UK MP says US report on rise in anti-Indian hate online ‘deeply concerning’

Blackman, who represents Harrow East, where Hindus were recently attacked celebrating Holi, said of the report: “This is a coordinated campaign driven by a small number of accounts deliberately targeting the Indian community, its culture, and its contribution to public life. It is racism, plain and simple. The Indian diaspora here in Harrow, across the UK, and the world, makes an extraordinary contribution to our societies. That contribution deserves celebration. I will always stand against any form of discrimination targeting our Indian community."

7 killed as avalanche buries several vehicles at Zojila Pass

The Zojila pass would earlier remain closed for nearly five months during winter, cutting off Ladakh from the rest of the country. However, with improved technology, advanced snow-clearance equipment and better planning, the pass remained open throughout this winter, barring four days, which the Border Roads Organisation described as a significant strategic and logistical achievement.

Mirwaiz meets Iranian envoy, calls Kashmir ‘little Iran’

The delegation condemned the war, which it said was “imposed” on Iran, and expressed hope that diplomatic efforts would prevail and peace and stability would be restored. Others who were part of the delegation included Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam, Aga Syed Hassan Al-Mosvi, and Aga Syed Hadi AlMosvi, Aga Syed Mujtaba. During the meeting, Mirwaiz also highlighted the “deep-rooted cultural, historical and religious ties between Kashmir and Iran”.

Rubio says sanctions relief for Russian crude not permanent as war roils oil market