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The wildfire raging in the southern part of the Dz&uuml;kou Valley in Nagaland&rsquo;s Kohima district entered its eighth day on Monday, with officials confirming that the blaze has been largely brought under control.
The fire, which broke out on January 26, is now mostly restricted to areas below and around Mount Tempf&uuml;, according to Kohima Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem. Authorities stated that the main Dz&uuml;kou Valley remains unaffected and is currently free from immediate fire threats.
While the fire near the helipad area has been completely contained, fresh flare-ups have been reported in pockets around Mount Tempf&uuml; and Mount Merata. A coordinated multi-agency firefighting operation has been ongoing since the first day, involving more than 150 personnel.
Firefighting efforts on the ground have faced major challenges due to the region&rsquo;s rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and limited accessibility, particularly in areas behind Mount Tempf&uuml;. To support operations, two Indian Air Force helicopters have been deployed, carrying out multiple Bambi bucket sorties over the weekend, with additional aerial operations planned.
Preliminary assessments suggest that nearly one-third of the Dz&uuml;kou region may have been affected by the fire, although officials emphasised that the core valley area has remained untouched. Most of the damage has been reported in dwarf bamboo vegetation, which is expected to regenerate naturally within a few months.
Teams from the district administration, State Disaster Response Force, police, forest department, fire and emergency services, home guards, drone operators, the Southern Angami Youth Organisation, and personnel from the 13 Assam Rifles have been actively involved in containing the blaze.
Local organisations highlighted that the fire initially broke out between the Jakhama and Viswema entry routes before spreading towards Kehoke and Mount Tempf&uuml;. Authorities and community leaders have once again raised concerns over recurring wildfires in the Dz&uuml;kou Valley, attributing many incidents to visitor negligence.
The government, in consultation with local stakeholders, is considering formal guidelines for the long-term management and protection of the Dz&uuml;kou Valley. Tourists and trekkers have been urged to follow safety norms, engage authorised guides, and act responsibly to preserve the fragile ecosystem.

Fire enters eighth day as authorities say main Dzükou valley remains safe

Dzükou Wildfire Largely Contained in Nagaland

Nagaland University has launched a major archaeological research initiative to uncover the prehistoric life of Naga communities, aiming to inform climate change mitigation strategies and support food security across the state.
Focusing on the Holocene and Anthropocene periods, the university is working closely with Indigenous communities to respect and incorporate traditional knowledge while uncovering ancient village sites and pre-agricultural histories.
&ldquo;This community-based, participatory research gives local populations ownership while enriching scientific insights,&rdquo; a university official said.
The project, led by Prof. Tiatoshi Jamir of the Department of History and Archaeology, is a collaboration with institutions like the University of Sydney, La Trobe University, University of York, and the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, funded by the Australian Research Council for 2025&ndash;2028.
Initial pilot studies in villages like Langa (Shamator district) and New Phor (Meluri district) have already yielded archaeological discoveries alongside oral histories from tribal elders.
&ldquo;Through this work, we are reconstructing ancient food systems and environmental responses,&rdquo; said Prof. Alison Betts of the University of Sydney. Researchers are examining ancient pottery, phytoliths, and charred plant remains to trace diets and climate adaptations.
The project also explores the traditional 'jhum' farming system, previously criticized but now increasingly seen as key to biodiversity and resilience.
With younger generations leaving villages and erratic weather threatening agriculture, this multi-disciplinary effort aims to link the past with the future, offering sustainable solutions rooted in ancestral knowledge.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]
&nbsp;

Nagaland University Explores Naga Prehistoric Life & Climate

Community-led study reveals Naga history, food systems, and climate

The Five Tribes Committee has announced to launch a phased agitation campaign soon demanding immediate revision of the job quota for the state&rsquo;s five backward tribals.&nbsp;
On April 26, the Five Tribes Committee served the ultimatum to the Nagaland government, demanding immediate revision of the job quota for the state&rsquo;s five backward tribes.
The deadline expires on Monday (May 26).
A spokesman of the tribal organisations on Sunday said that the Five Tribes Committee, comprising Angami Public Organisation, Ao Senden, Lotha Hoha, Rengma Hoho, and Sumi Hohoon after reviewing the reservation policy has announced that it would soon initiate peaceful protests if the Nagaland government fails to act on its demands for a review of the state's job reservation policy.
The five tribal communities include, Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma and Sumi.
The Committee had earlier issued a 30-day ultimatum to the state government on April 26. With the deadline expiring on Monday (May 26), the Committee has reaffirmed its preparedness to launch a phased agitation campaign.
Formed in August 2023, the Committee submitted a formal representation to the government in September the same year. 
However, the spokesman said that the Committee has yet to get any response from the state government, prompting the ultimatum and proposed protest action.
He said that Five Tribes Committee members emphasised their view that the current job reservation policy, introduced in 1977 for a 10-year term, has remained in effect without formal review for 48 years.
The Committee expressed concern over the continuation of what they describe as a temporary policy that has now become institutionalised without reassessment. 
The Five Tribes Committee announced that the first phase of agitation would include peaceful rallies in all district headquarters inhabited by the five tribal communities.
A second phase may involve a peaceful dharma at the state secretariat in Kohima.
Additional protest actions may be declared subsequently.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio earlier told the Nagaland Assembly session that the reservation for the backward tribals began in 1977 and 37 % of the non-technical and non-gazetted jobs are currently reserved for them.
The reservation is divided into 25 % for seven Eastern Nagaland backward tribals and 12 % for four other backward tribals of other regions.
&mdash;IANS

Tribal leaders protesting peacefully for quota review

Five Tribes to Launch Stir Demanding Review of 48-Year-Old Job Quota Policy in Nagaland

Nagaland Tribes Demand Job Quota Review

The Nagaland government has suspended a senior IAS officer Reny Wilfred from service after an investigation into several sexual complaints and mental harassment by women employees has been initiated against him earlier, officials said on Thursday.
A senior official said that Nagaland Chief Secretary J. Alam issued the suspension order invoking provisions of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, on Wednesday.
Wilfred, a 2015-batch IAS officer of the Nagaland cadre, has been serving as the Joint Secretary at the Finance Department and the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN).
The Chief Secretary's order said that Wilfred's headquarters during the suspension period would be the Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima, the official added.
Earlier on March 17, a formal complaint was filed against the IAS officer by the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) to the Director General of Police Rupin Sharma after receiving complaints against him from several women employees who accused Wilfred of seeking sexual favours in exchange for salary hikes and employment opportunities.
Wilfred, however, has denied all the allegations against him.
The Nagaland Police last month constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and registered an FIR to probe the allegations of sexual and mental harassment of several women employees of the IDAN by the IAS officer.
Before submission of the written complaint to the DGP, the NSCW recorded the statements of the victim women.
After receiving the complaint from the NSCW, the police headquarters, as per the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), instituted a preliminary enquiry on March 25 by a woman officer of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police.
The influential Naga Students' Federation has also demanded Wilfred's suspension.
The federation emphasised that retaining him in office "undermines public trust and sends a dangerous message that institutional protection takes precedence over accountability".
&mdash;IANS

Nagaland IAS officer suspended amid harassment probe

Nagaland suspends IAS officer amid probe into sexual harassment and mental abuse allegations

Nagaland Govt Suspends IAS Officer Over Harassment

The Nagaland Police have constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and registered an FIR to probe the allegations of sexual and mental harassment of several women employees of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) by an IAS officer, officials said on Saturday.&nbsp;
A senior official said that Nagaland State Women Commission (NSCW) chairperson Nginyeih Konyak submitted a written complaint to the Director General of Police on March 17 after the verbal intimation by IDAN Chairman Abu Metha against the IAS officer on February 27.
Metha is also the advisor to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
The accused IAS officer is the Joint Secretary of IDAN, Kohima. The IAS officer, however, has denied the allegations made by the women employees.
Before submission of the written complaint to the DGP, the NSCW recorded the statements of the victim women, who are also working in the IDAN.&nbsp;
Several women working in IDAN have accused the IAS officer of asking for physical indulgence for a hike in salary and other benefits.
After receiving the complaint from the NSCW, the police headquarters, as per the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), instituted a preliminary enquiry on March 25 by a lady officer of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police.
The lady officer conducted the preliminary enquiry and submitted the report to the DGP on April 1.
The official said that the report of the lady officer prima facie revealed the commission of a cognizable offence of sexual harassment under sections 75 &amp; 79 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), warranting an in-depth criminal investigation and recommended for further investigation to uncover the full extent and truthfulness of the allegations.
The government constituted a SIT (Special Investigation Team) led by a senior IPS officer for a thorough investigation of the complaint. Further, on April 5, four officers were also co-opted into the SIT. The investigation of the case is undergoing, and the Police team is looking into all aspects of the allegations.
On April 4, the IAS officer was relieved from his official duties at IDAN.
Meanwhile, in 2021, the same IAS officer, while posted as Deputy Commissioner of Noklak district, was booked for the alleged molestation of two underage girls who were engaged as maid servants at his official residence.
After a thorough and detailed investigation, a charge sheet in the matter was filed on December 2, 2021, in the court of a Special Judge under the POCSO Act in Tuensang.
After going through the Chargesheet, the Court took cognizance of the charges and commenced the trial. As per information available with the police, since then, the case is under trial at Tuensang, and 34 out of 50 Prosecution witnesses have deposed in the instant case.&nbsp;
&mdash;IANS
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NSCW chairperson filed a written complaint to the DGP on March 17 after a verbal report by IDAN chief (File Photo) 

Several women at IDAN accuse IAS officer of demanding favours for salary hikes and benefits

Nagaland SIT Investigates IAS Officer Over Harassment

To showcase the traditional and diverse culture and vibrant life of the region, the 10-day-long 25th edition of the famous Hornbill Festival is set to begin at the picturesque Naga heritage village Kisama on Sunday. &nbsp;
Officials of the Nagaland Tourism, Art and Culture Department, which organized the mega annual carnival, said that this year Japan would be the country partner of the Hornbill Festival, named after the majestic hornbill bird, which holds a significant place in the folklore of the Naga tribes.
Nagaland Tourism Director Veyielo Doulo said that Japan would be participating in various sectors including cultural performances, capacity-building and workshops in handicrafts and bamboo products through Japanese resource persons, master craftspersons and world-famous musicians.
&ldquo;Last year the festival witnessed a footfall of 1.54 lakh people, including a large number of foreign tourists. This year we expect the number of tourists, foreign and domestic, to be doubled,&rdquo; Doulo said.
He said that the festival provides a unique platform for visitors to witness not only the Naga cultural diversity converged at one venue but also the states of northeast India as a means of cultural exchange, while adventure, sports, art, handicraft, fashion, music, literature, etc also come as part of the special package.
Known as the &ldquo;Festival of Festivals&rdquo;, this grand event not only showcases the rich traditions and heritage of Nagaland but also brings together the diverse tribes of the state in a symphony of colours, sounds, and dances.
Since December 2000, the Hornbill Festival has been held at Kisama Heritage Village, 12km from the capital city Kohima.
The festival has grown in stature over the years to become one of India&rsquo;s premier cultural events.
Each of Nagaland&rsquo;s recognized tribes participates, showcasing their unique customs, attire, and traditions.
With a population of two million (tribals constitute 86.5%), Nagaland has 17 tribes and all the tribes have their own festivals.
Visitors can witness traditional dances, music performances, indigenous games, and craft exhibitions that provide a window into the life and culture of the Naga people.
Last year the US, Germany and Columbia were the country partners while Assam was the partner state of the festival.
For the tourists and guests, it is an opportunity to get a comprehensive understanding of the Naga people, their land and their rich culture and customs.
Highlights of the silver jubilee edition of the iconic 10-day Hornbill Festival include daily performances of around two-dozen cultural troupes, sales of local products, handloom and handicrafts, artworks, horticulture, traditional stone pulling ceremony, film festival, photo fest, heritage walk, kids&rsquo; carnival, International Hornbill Naga Wrestling, indigenous games and sports festival etc.
Local cuisine, food festival, Naga King chilly and pineapple eating competitions, World War-II rally, adventure outdoor activities, mountain biking, Dzukou Valley Day Hikes, Bamboo Carnival, Night Carnival are the other important attractions of the gala celebration.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who earlier this week inaugurated several facilities at Kisama village ahead of the festival, highlighted that the Hornbill Festival has evolved into an international event, attracting global tourists, and expressed confidence that the new facilities would enhance the festival experience for visitors from around the world.

The festival has is one of India’s premier cultural events (Pic: Vikramjit Kakati, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Japan to be country partner for the silver edition of the iconic event, which begins Dec. 1

Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival Returns

Gujarat Congress Internal Dispute: The countdown to the 2027 Gujarat Assembly election has already begun. The 2029 Lok Sabha election is not far away either. The Congress high command is making claims of a change of power in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhi is talking about rebuilding the Gujarat Congress from the ground up. There is talk of removing the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; and putting the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; on the field. But looking at the current state of the Gujarat Congress, one question cannot be avoided: before entering the race, will the Congress even be able to get its own team to stand in one line? Before declaring war against the BJP, the Congress is caught in a political battle within its own house. The question is bitter, but necessary: if a party cannot create unity within its own organisation, how does it expect to take on the BJP&rsquo;s formidable organisational machinery in Gujarat?
Leaders Changed, But Why Didn&rsquo;t the Problem? Keeping the 2027 Assembly and 2029 Lok Sabha elections in mind, the Congress has begun making changes to its Gujarat organisation. The high command wanted to remove the old and inactive structure and bring forward leaders with the ability to fight elections. But when a party repeatedly needs to change its state in-charge, the question becomes bigger than the capability of the individual holding the post. Mukul Wasnik was replaced by Randeep Singh Surjewala as Gujarat Congress in-charge. With the new in-charge came expectations of a new direction, a new strategy and greater discipline within the organisation. Yet, barely had Surjewala taken charge when a controversy erupted within Banaskantha Congress over the organisational structure. That is where the Congress&rsquo;s real trouble begins.
A Symptom of Congress&rsquo;s Organisational Illness Banaskantha is not an ordinary constituency. It is the only Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat that the Congress won in the 2024 general election. That makes it the biggest symbol of political hope for the Congress in Gujarat. So when differences emerge over organisational posts and responsibilities in precisely this constituency, when questions are raised over decisions taken by the state leadership, and when the district organisation itself becomes a subject of controversy, this cannot simply be dismissed as a &lsquo;local dispute&rsquo;. It is a symptom of the Congress&rsquo;s organisational illness. And if this illness continues until 2027, the BJP will be the direct beneficiary. The Congress needs to understand one basic reality: elections are not won through posters, press conferences and speeches by big leaders. Elections are won at the booth. The BJP&rsquo;s organisational machinery is active right down to the booth level. To challenge it, the Congress needs a strong network of workers, clearly defined responsibilities and a united district-level organisation. But here, the very formation of the district organisation is becoming a source of controversy. So where exactly will the Congress find the strength to challenge the BJP at the booth level?
&lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; or Obstacles in Each Other&rsquo;s Way? Rahul Gandhi talks about identifying the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; in Gujarat and bringing the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; to the forefront. It sounds attractive. But politics does not work that way. Simply choosing good horses does not guarantee victory in a race. The horses must run together rather than pull each other down. The direction of the race must be clear. And the coaching staff cannot be fighting among themselves. Only then can a team win. The Gujarat Congress&rsquo;s problem may not simply be about &lsquo;which leader should be promoted&rsquo;. The real problem is whether the leaders who are brought forward will actually work together. Mukul Wasnik is gone. Randeep Singh Surjewala has arrived. The state in-charge has changed. But if factionalism remains unchanged, internal power struggles remain unchanged, coordination between the district and state organisations remains weak, and organisational decisions themselves continue to trigger controversy, then what exactly is the Congress talking about when it talks of change? Changing faces will not change the Congress&rsquo;s fortunes. Its working style must change. Leadership accountability must be fixed. Factionalism must be brought under control. And above all, the party worker must be given confidence that the Congress is genuinely one team. Because if the Congress wants to fight the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other.
When Will the Political Infighting Within Gujarat Congress End? The biggest illusion for the Congress in the 2027 election would be to assume that public anger against the BJP will automatically translate into Congress votes. Politics does not work that simply. Reaching voters requires sustained ground-level work. It requires a booth-level organisation. It requires coordination among local leaders. It requires worker morale. And above all, it requires leadership running in one direction until election day. If even one of these five links is weak, the entire electoral calculation can collapse. For the Congress, this is no longer the time for experiments. It is the time for decisions. How many state in-charges will be changed? How many meetings will be held? How many times will the organisational structure be reshuffled? The question is no longer who the next Gujarat Congress in-charge will be. The real question is: when will the political infighting within the Gujarat Congress finally end? If every new in-charge is going to inherit the same old disputes, factionalism and internal resentment, then how can a new Congress emerge simply because a new face has arrived?
Will &lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; Remain Just Another Political Slogan? If the Congress wants to win Gujarat, it must first win within its own organisation. It must win the trust of its workers. It must win the confidence of its district organisations. It must bring its leaders onto one platform. Otherwise, the Congress will lose its internal battle before its fight against the BJP has even begun. And then the talk of &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; will remain nothing more than another political slogan. The Congress has very little time left in the race for power in 2027. If it wants to take on the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other. Because power in Gujarat will not be won through statements from the Gandhi family. It will be won through organisational strength on the ground. The final question is simple: Is the Congress preparing to defeat the BJP, or is it still calculating whom it needs to defeat inside its own house? Want to win Gujarat? Then first, win the Gujarat Congress.

Congress has set its sights on defeating the BJP in Gujarat. But there’s a bigger battle brewing inside its own house.

Congress Wants to Defeat BJP in Gujarat, But Who Will Save Congress From Itself?

Gujarat High Court Launches Study Circle for Advocates: In a major initiative to strengthen the professional skills and legal knowledge of young advocates, the High Court of Gujarat, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Judicial Academy (GSJA), has announced the launch of a Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop) for Advocates Practicing before the High Court of Gujarat with up to 10 years of practice. The programme will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal Announces Study Circle The initiative was announced by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice and Patron-in-Chief of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, Justice Sunita Agarwal, after the Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the High Court Lawns on August 15. The announcement was made in the presence of Justice Bhargav D. Karia, Judge of the Gujarat High Court and President of GSJA, members of the Board of Governors of GSJA, other High Court judges, Senior Advocates and members of the Bar.
Focus on Legal Education and Professional Skills The new Study Circle is being introduced as a continuous legal learning and professional development programme for young members of the Bar. The initiative aims to enhance advocates&rsquo; understanding of legal principles, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills through direct interaction with Senior Advocates and subject experts. The programme is also expected to strengthen academic engagement between the Bench and the Bar and provide advocates with an opportunity to discuss important and evolving legal issues.
Justice Sunita Agarwal Highlights Importance of Continuous Learning Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal highlighted the indispensable role of advocates in the administration of justice. She emphasized that continuous legal education has become increasingly important in an era of rapidly evolving jurisprudence. The Chief Justice also stressed that effective advocacy and strong legal research are essential components of a robust justice delivery system. She appreciated the efforts of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy in conceptualizing and developing the Study Circle programme.
Three Key Legal Modules in First Phase The first phase of the Study Circle will feature three major academic modules covering important areas of High Court practice. Module I will focus on the expanding contours of maintainability in writ jurisdiction under Article 226, an important area of constitutional and administrative law practice. Module II will cover the basic principles of Administrative Law and Second Appeals under Section 100 of the CPC, with particular emphasis on the Doctrine of Substantial Question of Law. Module III will focus on Criminal Law Jurisdiction, particularly the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the BNSS, including their scope, limitations and principles of judicial discipline.
Study Circle to Be Held Fortnightly The Study Circle is proposed to be conducted on a fortnightly basis, providing advocates with regular opportunities for legal learning and professional interaction. Future sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including Constitutional Law, Writ Jurisdiction, Arbitration and Conciliation Law, Commercial Law, Public Interest Litigation, Service Law, Taxation Law, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Legal Ethics and Drafting Skills. The programme will also address contemporary legal issues that are particularly relevant to advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court.
Registration to Begin Soon Registration for the Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop Series) for Advocates Practicing in the High Court of Gujarat &ndash; Series of Academic Modules 2026 will begin shortly through the official website of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy. The programme is specifically intended for advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court who have up to 10 years of professional practice.
Registration Fee The registration fee for the Study Circle has been fixed at ₹100 per programme, which will be paid by each participating advocate. The workshops will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad. Advocates attending the workshops will also receive Certificates of Participation.
Major Step Towards Strengthening Justice Delivery The Gujarat High Court and Gujarat State Judicial Academy's new Study Circle is being viewed as a significant step towards professional excellence and development of the legal fraternity. By bringing young advocates, Senior Advocates and legal experts together for regular academic discussions, the initiative aims to improve legal knowledge, research and advocacy skills while strengthening the Bench-Bar relationship. The broader objective is to contribute towards a more effective and efficient justice delivery system in Gujarat.

Study Circle Launched for Advocates With Up to 10 Years of Practice

Gujarat High Court Big Move

A chilling video of the accused in the Indore MBA student murder case has sparked outrage after he was seen smiling and appearing unconcerned when questioned about the crime.
The accused, Piyush Dhanotia, was arrested for allegedly raping and murdering his 25-year-old classmate in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Police said he strangled the woman on February 10 inside his rented accommodation and later locked the room before fleeing. Her partially decomposed body was discovered days later after residents complained of a foul smell.
However, what has intensified public anger is the accused&rsquo;s demeanour. In a video that surfaced online, Dhanotia is seen smiling when reporters ask him why he committed the crime. When pressed for answers, he responded dismissively, saying that what had happened had already happened and that he would speak at the right time. Throughout the interaction, he showed no visible sign of regret.
Police officials said he admitted during interrogation that he forced the woman into sexual acts and killed her when she resisted, though he has reportedly changed his version multiple times. Investigators are also examining allegations that he circulated objectionable videos of the victim in their college WhatsApp group.
The victim&rsquo;s father has accused the accused of blackmailing his daughter with obscene images and attempting to extort money.
As the investigation continues, the accused&rsquo;s apparent lack of remorse captured on camera has become a focal point of the case, drawing sharp reactions both online and offline.
&nbsp;

Video shows MBA student murder accused laughing amid probe

Indore Murder Accused Smiles on Camera

Galgotias University has landed in controversy after showcasing a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that was widely believed to be developed by its students. The robot, however, was later identified as a commercially available product made by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The backlash began after a video from the summit went viral, in which a university professor introduced the robot dog, named &ldquo;Orion,&rdquo; and referred to it as being developed at the institution&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence. Social media users were quick to point out that the machine closely resembled Unitree&rsquo;s quadruped robots, which are already available globally for research and industrial use.
Unitree is known for manufacturing advanced four-legged robots designed for tasks such as inspection, obstacle navigation and research applications. Its products are often compared to models developed by global robotics players.
Following the uproar, the Greater Noida-based university issued a clarification stating that it never claimed to have built the robot. It maintained that the robodog was purchased as part of its AI investment initiatives and is being used as a research and learning tool for students. Another faculty member present at the summit reiterated that the display had been misinterpreted and that there was no attempt to conceal the original manufacturer&rsquo;s branding.
Despite the clarification, sources familiar with the developments said the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit amid mounting criticism. The institution, however, denied receiving any formal directive from the organisers or the ministry.
Notably, the robotic dog was removed from display shortly after the controversy escalated online.

Robodog row sparks backlash at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Galgotias Asked to Exit AI Summit

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away recently. The actor shared the news with an emotional message on social media. His wife, Kiara Advani, has now also paid a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law.
On Wednesday, Kiara took to Instagram to share pictures from her wedding reception, where she and Sidharth were seen smiling alongside his parents. In a deeply personal note, she remembered Sunil Malhotra as a warm, generous, and steady presence in the family. She reflected on how he welcomed her with open arms and unconditional love, describing his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kiara wrote that his stories, laughter, and quiet strength would remain with her forever. She added that his legacy of integrity and gentleness lives on through his children and grandchildren. Concluding her message, she expressed that he would always be loved and remembered.
The couple is currently in Delhi with their family during this difficult period. Members of the film industry extended their condolences online. Jacqueline Fernandez offered prayers, while Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra shared messages of support.
On the professional front, Sidharth will next appear in Vvan: Force of The Forest, directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia and is slated for release later this year.
Kiara, meanwhile, awaits the release of Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film features Yash, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles. The film is expected to release on March 19, alongside Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar.

Actor pens heartfelt note after Sunil Malhotra’s passing

Kiara Mourns Sidharth’s Father

Days after 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra lost his life in a fatal SUV crash in Delhi&rsquo;s Dwarka, the father of the 17-year-old accused has expressed regret over the incident, stating that his family is &ldquo;deeply grief-stricken.&rdquo; He also confirmed that the Scorpio SUV involved in the accident is part of his commercial transport business.
The crash occurred around 11:50 am on February 3 near Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in Sector 11, Dwarka. According to police, the SUV rammed into a Yamaha R15 motorcycle, killing Sahil on the spot. The vehicle then struck a parked Swift Dzire, injuring cab driver Ajit Singh.
Post-mortem findings revealed that Sahil sustained a fractured skull, multiple rib fractures, and an elbow injury due to the high-impact collision.
The minor driver was detained at the scene and booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash driving, negligence causing death, and endangering life. He was later presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to an observation home. On February 10, he was granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board examinations.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police registered a separate case against the boy&rsquo;s father under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which holds guardians or vehicle owners accountable when a minor commits a traffic offence.
Speaking to the media after being questioned, the father said he was not in the city at the time of the accident and was unaware that his son had taken the vehicle. He stated that the family has cooperated with investigators and provided all necessary documents.
Sahil&rsquo;s mother alleged that her son was killed by a &ldquo;reckless teen&rdquo; just minutes away from his workplace. The 23-year-old, who worked part-time at an insurance firm, had plans to pursue higher studies in the United Kingdom later this year.

Minor held in SUV crash; father booked under MV Act provisions

Dwarka Crash: Accused’s Father Apologises

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday set aside a March 2025 judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had ruled that grabbing a minor girl&rsquo;s breasts and dragging her under a culvert did not amount to an attempt to rape. The apex court termed the ruling a &ldquo;patently erroneous&rdquo; application of criminal law principles.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, held that the high court had incorrectly reduced the charges from attempt to rape under Section 376 read with Section 511 of the IPC and Section 18 of the POCSO Act to lesser offences. The court restored the original summons issued by the Special POCSO Court in Kasganj, clarifying that its observations were prima facie and would not influence the trial&rsquo;s outcome.
Rejecting the high court&rsquo;s reasoning that the accused had merely &ldquo;prepared&rdquo; to commit rape, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled distinction between preparation and attempt, noting that an attempt begins when intent moves into execution. Based on the allegations, including forcibly taking the minor on a motorcycle, dragging her near a culvert, and fleeing only after she screamed, the Bench held that a prima facie case of attempt to rape was clearly made out.
The proceedings were initiated suo motu after senior advocate Shobha Gupta raised concerns over the high court&rsquo;s reasoning. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed the controversial observations and later the entire judgment.
Beyond correcting the legal error, the court addressed a broader concern about insensitivity in judicial handling of sexual offence cases. It requested the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal to constitute a five-member expert committee to frame guidelines aimed at fostering compassion and sensitivity in courts, especially in cases involving minors and vulnerable victims.
The committee, to be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Aniruddha Bose, has been directed to submit a report within three months. The guidelines are to be drafted in simple, accessible language and tailored to Indian realities to ensure they are understandable to victims and laypersons alike.

Top court restores rape attempt charge, seeks sensitivity guidelines

SC Sets Aside HC Order in POCSO Case

India&rsquo;s merchandise imports from Russia plunged by over 40% in January 2026, falling to about $2.86 billion from $4.81 billion a year earlier, official trade figures show, largely reflecting a steep reduction in crude oil purchases.
Crude oil typically accounts for roughly 80% of India&rsquo;s imports from Russia, and estimates suggest purchases of Russian crude last month were significantly lower than in previous years. Other goods imported from Russia include coal, fertilisers, iron, pulses, and precious stones, but these have not offset the slump in oil imports. The downturn in oil imports intensified after mid-2025, following punitive tariffs levied by the United States on Indian goods connected to purchases of Russian oil and ongoing diplomatic pressure. India&rsquo;s refiners, including some major private and state firms, have substantially reduced or halted buying Russian crude as they explore alternative sources.
In early February 2026, Washington eased the additional tariff on Indian products after New Delhi signalled a commitment to &ldquo;stop directly or indirectly importing&rdquo; Russian oil and to increase purchases of energy products from the United States, as well as broadening ties in global energy markets.
Analysts expect the shift in crude sourcing to continue, with Indian refiners eyeing other suppliers, including Middle Eastern and Venezuelan grades, as part of broader diversification strategies.

January sees 40% fall in Russia merchandise imports amid crude cutbacks

India’s Russia Imports Drop Sharply

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Andhra Pradesh&rsquo;s Annamayya district for allegedly abducting and murdering a seven-year-old girl from his neighbourhood in Madanapalle town.
The child had been playing outside her home on Sunday evening when she went missing, sparking panic among her family and local residents. A missing complaint was filed the following morning, prompting an intensive search operation led by district police.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from across the town, which reportedly showed the suspect, a neighbour living opposite the victim&rsquo;s house, taking the child into his residence. Acting on this lead, police searched the house on Tuesday morning.
During the inspection, officers discovered the girl&rsquo;s body concealed inside a water storage drum within the premises. The accused was present at the house at the time and was immediately taken into custody.
Preliminary findings suggest the child was killed inside the residence on Sunday night, and her body was hidden thereafter. Authorities are probing whether sexual assault occurred before the murder, with confirmation pending post-mortem and forensic examination results.
Following the discovery, tensions escalated in the area. Residents and family members staged a protest on the Madanapalle highway, briefly preventing police from shifting the body to the government hospital for autopsy and demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Police have stated that all possible angles, including prior allegations of inappropriate behaviour by the suspect, are being examined as the investigation continues.

Child’s body found in drum; protest erupts in Madanapalle town

7-Year-Old Killed, Neighbour Arrested

The United States and Iran held their second round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened regional tensions. While both sides indicated forward movement in discussions, parallel military developments have added complexity to the fragile engagement.
Reports suggest the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the Middle East. Over 50 advanced fighter aircraft, including F-35, F-22 and F-16 jets, were reportedly repositioned to the region within a 24-hour window. The deployment follows Washington&rsquo;s decision to send a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to Middle Eastern waters, underscoring its strategic posture.
Despite the show of force, the Geneva discussions were described as substantive and focused. Iranian officials signalled that preliminary understandings were reached on broad guiding principles that could shape a future agreement. However, they cautioned that drafting and finalising any deal would take time.
On the American side, officials maintained that the talks unfolded largely as anticipated. Washington&rsquo;s core objective remains preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a position repeatedly emphasised by senior US leadership.
Meanwhile, regional tensions persisted. Iran temporarily restricted navigation in parts of the Strait of Hormuz during a naval drill, highlighting the waterway&rsquo;s vulnerability. Additionally, US leaders suggested that differences remain over key conditions laid out by President Donald Trump.
As diplomacy continues, both nations appear to be balancing dialogue with deterrence, leaving the broader geopolitical landscape uncertain.

Second Geneva round shows progress as military moves raise stakes

Kohima News