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The Hidden Menace: How Orobanche Weed Threatens India's Mustard Edible Oil Security

Jan 14, 2026

India's Mustard Crisis: The Underground Weed Undermining Edible Oil Self-Sufficiency

India's quest for self-reliance in edible oils faces a mounting, hidden challenge from a parasitic weed, Orobanche aegyptiaca. Mustard, cultivated on nearly 9 million hectares across the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, and West Bengal, is the country's largest home-grown source of edible oil. However, rising infestations of this root parasite are causing significant yield losses, directly impacting domestic production and import substitution goals.

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Indian Railways Launches OTP-Based Ticketing to Check Illegal Bookings

Jan 14, 2026

Indian Railways Introduces OTP-Based Ticket Verification to Curb Misuse

Indian Railways has rolled out a One-Time Password (OTP)–based ticket verification system to tighten passenger identity checks and tackle irregular booking practices. The initiative is aimed at improving transparency, enhancing travel security, and limiting the role of unauthorised agents in high-demand routes.

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SCORP Robot: India Unveils Its First Indigenous Legged Mobile Manipulator

Jan 14, 2026

India Unveils SCORP, Its First Indigenous Legged Mobile Manipulator

India has taken a notable leap in advanced robotics with the unveiling of SCORP, the country’s first legged mobile manipulator, developed by deep-tech startup xTerra Robotics. Incubated at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, the robot represents India’s growing capability to design sophisticated autonomous systems capable of operating in complex, unstructured, and hazardous environments.

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Tyler Prize Honours Scientist Revealing Climate Role of Underground Fungi

Jan 14, 2026

Underground Fungal Networks Earn Global Recognition for Climate Science Breakthrough

American evolutionary biologist Toby Kiers has been honoured with the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement for reshaping scientific understanding of the vast underground fungal systems that quietly sustain ecosystems and regulate Earth’s climate. Her work has brought global attention to mycorrhizal fungi—organisms once ignored, now recognised as pillars of planetary health.

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Indian Army Inducts First Solar-Powered MAPSS Drone for Persistent Surveillance

Jan 14, 2026

Indian Army Inducts Solar-Powered Surveillance Drone to Boost Persistent Border Watch

India has strengthened its unmanned defence capabilities with the Indian Army signing a ₹168 crore contract for a solar-powered surveillance drone system, marking the first induction of a solar-driven unmanned aerial platform into Army service. The move significantly enhances long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) along sensitive borders.

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