In 2025, India reported significant biological discoveries with Kerala leading in new animal species findings, particularly in the Western Ghats. The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) recorded 353 plant species, including 221 entirely new to science. Arunachal Pradesh emerged as the leader in plant discoveries. Notable finds include a new fern variety, a wild custard apple species from the Western Ghats, and an edible 'tooth fungus', highlighting India's rich and evolving natural heritage. https://www.samayalive.in/feature/major-center-of-biodiversity/article-38084

During the rainy season, high humidity and lack of sunlight lead to fungal and bacterial growth in shoes, causing infections like athlete's foot and bad odors. Experts suggest avoiding tight leather or canvas shoes and ensuring wet footwear is dried properly using newspapers in well-ventilated areas. To combat odor, baking soda, tea bags, or antifungal powders can be used. Maintaining hygiene by washing feet in salt water, wearing cotton socks, and keeping nails clean is essential for foot health. https://www.samayalive.in/health-news/take-care-of-your-feet/article-38081

India set a new record in biodiversity in 2025 by discovering 709 new animal species, surpassing the previous record of 683 in 2024. According to the Zoological Survey of India, 483 of these are entirely new to science, while 226 were recorded in India for the first time. Key discoveries include a long-tailed bat in Uttarakhand, a non-venomous snake named after Steve Irwin in Great Nicobar, and colorful lizards in Arunachal Pradesh. India now accounts for 5.3% of the world's recorded faunal diversity with a total of 1,05,953 species, maintaining its status as one of the 17 mega-diverse countries. https://www.samayalive.in/feature/biological-wonder/article-38083

The NDA held its weekly 'Mangal Milan' strategy meeting at the Parliament Library, attended by PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. The meeting focused on planning the strategy for the remaining three days of the Monsoon Session. It commenced with 'Vande Mataram' and saw leaders waving the national flag. Additionally, NDA MPs protested within the Parliament premises regarding student demonstrations in Jharkhand. The primary goal of these meetings is to ensure coordination among alliance partners and foster constructive discussions during the session. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/nda-mangal-milan-meeting-12250624

According to Garuda Purana, recurring dreams, inexplicable fears, and sudden attractions to places or people are signs of past life memories. The scripture states that the soul is immortal and its next birth is determined by past deeds (Karma). While science lacks proof, the Purana explains that a soul doesn't immediately get a new body after death; the transition takes 3 to 11 days or more based on karma. Good deeds lead to a quicker rebirth. https://sambad.in/special/garuda-purana-rebirth-signs-past-life-soul-12250179

A major tragedy was averted in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, when a school bus carrying 25 students caught fire due to a short circuit. The alert driver noticed smoke from the engine and evacuated all children safely before the fire engulfed the entire vehicle. Although the bus was completely gutted and students lost their belongings like bags and books, no injuries or casualties were reported. Firefighters eventually brought the blaze under control. https://odishasambad.in/school-bus-in-rajasthans-jaisalmer-catches-fire-with-25-children-onboard/

The use of nicotine pouches is rising rapidly among youth as a supposedly safe, smokeless alternative to cigarettes. However, health experts and WHO warn that these pouches are highly addictive and can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, and mental health problems. Despite being marketed as 'tobacco-free', they directly deliver nicotine into the bloodstream, creating a dependency that experts caution against using without medical advice. https://sambad.in/lifestyle/nicotine-pouch-use-rising-youth-health-risks-india-12246007

The Congress party has called for a 12-hour bandh in Angul district to protest against air pollution caused by coal and fly ash transportation. Starting from 6 AM on Wednesday, the strike has affected educational institutions, government offices, and commercial establishments. Transport services, including buses and markets, have been disrupted across the district, particularly in Athamallik. Police have been deployed at key locations to maintain law and order during the protest. https://odishasambad.in/12-hour-bandh-called-by-anugol-district-congress-today/

Police and DVF personnel seized approximately 2 quintals of cannabis worth over Rs 20 lakh during a raid in a forest near Dekabandha village in Gajapati district, Odisha. The contraband was hidden in 8 bags inside a hut to avoid detection. Authorities suspect the stock was intended for interstate smuggling. An investigation is underway to identify the individuals involved in this illegal trade. https://otvkhabar.in/crime/200-kg-of-ganja-seized-in-gajapati-forest-consignment-worth-over-20-lakh-busted-12252296

The final solar eclipse of the year is occurring today on Chitalagi Amavasya. During the total solar eclipse, which will last approximately 2 minutes and 18 seconds, certain regions will experience darkness during the day. While the eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe, America, Greenland, Iceland, and Spain, it will not be visible in India. According to Indian Standard Time, the celestial event will begin at 11:20 PM tonight. https://otvkhabar.in/international/solar-eclipse-today-day-turns-dark-in-some-parts-but-not-visible-in-india-12252236