Bihar: Nitish Kumar Transfers ₹2,500 Crore to 25 Lakh Women Under Employment Scheme – READ

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October 4, 2025

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar transferred ₹2,500 crore to 25 lakh women beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana on Thursday, bringing the total disbursement under the scheme to ₹10,000 crore for one crore women.

Scheme Disbursement Progress

The transfer, conducted from Sankalp at 1 Anne Marg, provided ₹10,000 per beneficiary through Direct Benefit Transfer. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the scheme on September 26, 2025, with an initial ₹7,500 crore disbursed to 75 lakh women. With Thursday’s transfer, the program has reached one crore beneficiaries.

Staggered Payment Schedule

CM Nitish Kumar announced that payments to remaining beneficiaries will continue weekly starting October 6, 2025, ensuring one woman from every family receives the seed capital. Women demonstrating successful ventures will qualify for additional financial assistance up to ₹2 lakh.

CM Nitish Kumar Address

“I extend heartfelt congratulations to all mothers and sisters who joined via video conference today. It is very gratifying that under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, 25 lakh women are receiving ₹10,000 in assistance,” Kumar stated. He emphasized that the scheme targets one woman per household across Bihar.

Kumar contrasted current initiatives with previous administrations: “The earlier government did nothing. The situation was very bad before.” He highlighted that since the NDA government formation on November 24, 2005, Bihar has focused on development across education, health, and infrastructure sectors.

Women Empowerment Initiatives

The Chief Minister outlined his government’s women-focused policies: 50 percent reservation in Panchayati Raj institutions (2006) and urban bodies (2007), 35 percent reservation in police (2013), and 35 percent in government jobs (2016).

He noted the growth of Self-Help Groups under Jeevika from minimal numbers in 2006 to 11 lakh groups with 1.4 crore members. Urban areas now have 37,000 groups with 3.85 lakh members.

Beneficiary Testimonial

Anju Kumar, the scheme’s one-crore beneficiary from Samastipur district’s Ujiyarpur block, shared her experience via video conference. She described how Jeevika membership transformed her life through successive loans for vegetable farming, dairy, and turmeric cultivation, crediting Kumar for improved social status and welfare benefits including increased old-age pensions and free electricity.

Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha attended alongside senior officials and district magistrates who joined virtually.

Comet AI Browser Goes Free: Perplexity Extends Access to Everyone

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Dhruv

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October 4, 2025

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Perplexity first introduced its AI-powered browser, Comet, in July with the goal of offering an advanced browsing experience to rival platforms like Google Chrome and Safari. At launch, access to the browser was limited, requiring either an invitation from the company or a paid Pro subscription. That exclusivity has now been lifted. The company has confirmed that Comet is being opened up to all users worldwide, free of charge, marking a significant shift in its strategy.

In a blog post, Perplexity announced that everyone can now download Comet and begin using its AI-driven tools immediately. Those who have been waiting months on the access list will finally be able to experience the browser’s capabilities. While the core features of Comet will remain free, the company also revealed plans for a premium service called Comet Plus, which will integrate “the world’s most reputable sources of news and information.”

Perplexity framed Comet as a tool designed for people who value curiosity and knowledge. In its words, “Curious people lead the world,” and the integrated assistant is meant to deliver precise answers and perform useful tasks with fewer interruptions. The company criticized the traditional “clicks and traffic” model of the web, describing it as little more than a digital yellow pages, while positioning Comet as a smarter alternative that supports research, productivity, shopping, coding, and more.

By removing access restrictions and making Comet free, Perplexity is clearly aiming to expand its user base while showcasing the browser’s potential to a global audience. For those interested in trying it out, the download is available directly from Perplexity’s official website.

Washington Rolls Out $2,500 Scheme for Migrant Youth Opting to Return

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Dhruv

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October 4, 2025

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The Trump administration is moving ahead with a plan that would provide financial incentives to migrant teenagers in federal custody who agree to return to their home countries. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that the program will initially apply to 17-year-olds, offering $2,500 to those who voluntarily depart after an immigration judge grants approval and they arrive back in their country of origin, according to a person familiar with the development.

In a statement, HHS said the program was created to give unaccompanied minors meaningful options. Officials noted that many children arrive in the United States without their families, often brought in through smuggling networks, and argued that the initiative would allow them to make an informed decision about whether to remain or go home.

Advocates and immigration lawyers raised concerns that the scope of the program could expand to include children as young as 14. They warned that the scheme could push minors to abandon applications for protection, such as asylum, and forfeit legal safeguards designed to shield them from deportation before turning 18.

Wendy Young, president of the advocacy group Kids in Need of Defense, condemned the program as an “egregious abuse of power.” She added, “This operation undermines laws that guarantee that process for unaccompanied children, and it runs counter to our nation’s longstanding commitment to protect the most vulnerable among us, children, from violence, trafficking, abuse, persecution, and other grave dangers. We urge DHS to immediately halt its operation and ensure that every child in US custody has access to the rights and protections enshrined in US law.”

Immigrant children in the United States are afforded higher levels of protection under federal law, including a decades-old court settlement that restricts the government’s ability to detain them. Yet unlike adults in immigration cases, children are not guaranteed legal representation to help navigate the system.

As of August, federal records show that the Office of Refugee Resettlement, which falls under HHS, was responsible for the care of an average of 2,000 immigrant children.

Punjab Govt Launches ‘Unnat Kisan’ App to Give Farmers Access to CRM Machines

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Dhruv

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October 4, 2025

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Punjab has taken another step toward reshaping its agricultural future with the launch of the ‘Unnat Kisan’ mobile app, a platform that allows farmers to manage crop residue in a faster and more efficient way. What was once a difficult and time-consuming task can now be done with a few taps on a smartphone.

Farmers across the state now have access to more than 85,000 crop residue management (CRM) machines that are listed on the app. Each machine has been geo-tagged according to cultivable land, enabling farmers to track availability instantly. The Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, explained that this system makes stubble management transparent and scientific, while also cutting down costs and saving valuable time.

The government has also put in place a strong support network to back this digital shift. Over 5,000 Village Level Facilitators and Cluster Officers have been stationed across Punjab to assist farmers. Their role is to help with bookings, oversee the use of machines, and ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach every household in the farming community.

In addition to government-owned machines, private owners have also been encouraged to list their equipment on the app. This widens the pool of resources available and promotes cooperation between farmers within villages. In cases where digital access may be limited, facilitators themselves will handle the bookings, ensuring that no farmer is excluded.

One of the most significant aspects of the platform is its real-time dashboard. The dashboard monitors machine use, tracks the work of field officers, and highlights any issues that may arise. This system ensures accountability and provides quick solutions, especially during the busy harvesting season when stubble management is crucial.

Khudian emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is determined to make agriculture modern and sustainable. He called the app a major milestone in environmental conservation and a scientific alternative to traditional practices. Administrative Secretary Dr. Basant Garg echoed this sentiment, describing the initiative as the foundation of digital agriculture in Punjab and a model for the future of farming.

US Company Layoffs: Indian Employees Fired in 4-Minute Zoom Meeting

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Alina Khan

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October 3, 2025

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An Indian employee working remotely for a US-based company described an abrupt mass layoff conducted via a brief virtual meeting, with the account gaining widespread attention on Reddit and sparking discussions about corporate communication practices.

Sudden Termination in US Company

The employee recounted the experience: “It was a normal workday. I logged in at 9 a.m. and saw a calendar invite for a mandatory meeting at 11 a.m. with the COO. When the call began, he disabled all cameras and microphones and announced that most of the Indian workforce was being let go.”

The Chief Operating Officer stated the layoffs resulted from internal restructuring rather than performance issues. However, he refused to answer questions and exited the call shortly after delivering the news. Affected employees were informed they would receive confirmation emails regarding their employment status.

Compensation Details

The company committed to paying October’s full salary at month’s end and encashing pending leave balances. Despite the severance terms, the employee expressed emotional distress: “This is the first time I’ve been laid off, and it just truly sucks.”

Online Response

The Reddit post generated significant sympathy, with numerous users offering job leads and encouragement. One commenter wrote, “Which profile are you in? If I can help you, do DM.” Another asked, “Bro, what is your role and experience? Please DM me, I might be able to help you.”

A third user provided perspective: “Take this opportunity to reflect on what you truly want to do next. It could be what you’ve been doing or something entirely new. Don’t be discouraged – you’ll come out stronger because of this. Reach out to your network or start building new connections that can lead you to your next role.”

Broader Implications

The incident highlights challenges facing remote workers in international employment arrangements, particularly regarding job security and corporate communication standards. The impersonal nature of the layoff—conducted without individual consultation or opportunity for questions—has drawn criticism for lacking basic professional courtesy.

The case also underscores vulnerabilities for Indian tech workers employed by US companies, who may face sudden terminations with limited recourse despite contributing to company operations from overseas locations.

JEE Main 2026: Registration Open in October, Exams Scheduled for January and April

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Alina Khan

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October 3, 2025

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JEE Main 2026: The National Testing Agency will soon commence registration for the Joint Entrance Examination (Main) 2026, which will be conducted in two sessions—Session 1 in January 2026 and Session 2 in April 2026.

Registration Timeline of JEE Main 2026

According to the official notice, the application form for JEE (Main) 2026 Session 1 will become available on the NTA website, jeemain.nta.nic.in, in October 2025. Candidates are advised to monitor both nta.ac.in and jeemain.nta.nic.in regularly for updates and instructions.

Required Document Updates

NTA has emphasized that aspirants must ensure the following documents are updated before applying to avoid discrepancies or application rejection:

Aadhaar Card: Must reflect correct name, date of birth matching Class 10 certificate, current photograph, address, and father’s name.

UDID Card (for Persons with Disabilities): Should be valid, updated, and renewed as necessary.

Category Certificates (EWS/SC/ST/OBC-NCL): Must be current and valid.

Examination Structure

JEE Main 2026 comprises two papers:

Paper 1: For admission to undergraduate engineering programs (BE/BTech) at NITs, IIITs, other Centrally Funded Technical Institutions, and participating state-funded institutions. Qualifying candidates become eligible for JEE (Advanced), the gateway to IITs.

Paper 2: For admission to BArch and BPlanning programs nationwide.

Exam Schedule

JEE Main 2026 is expected to be conducted in two daily shifts: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Application Process

Candidates can apply by following these steps:

• Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in

• Click the JEE Main 2026 registration link

• Enter required details and log in

• Complete the application form and pay examination fees

• Submit details and download confirmation page

• Print registration confirmation for records

Examination Significance

JEE Main serves as the primary entrance examination for engineering admissions across India, with lakhs of students appearing annually. The two-session format allows candidates multiple attempts to improve their scores, with the better performance considered for admission purposes.

NTA conducts JEE Main on behalf of the Ministry of Education, maintaining standardized testing protocols across examination centers nationwide. Candidates are encouraged to complete registration early to avoid last-minute technical difficulties.

Closure of 18 Toll Plazas in Punjab Brings Daily Savings of ₹61.67 Lakh for Commuters

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Dhruv

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October 3, 2025

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The Punjab government has taken a significant step aimed at reducing daily expenses for citizens and reshaping how people experience travel across the state. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann recently confirmed that 18 toll plazas have been permanently shut down, describing them as “shops openly looting the common public” which previous administrations had allowed to operate unchecked.

According to government data, the closures translate into savings of nearly sixty one lakh rupees every day for commuters and households. “Removing toll plazas is a significant step toward providing economic relief to the people. This will make traffic on roads smooth and hassle-free,” Public Works Department Minister Harbjahan Singh ETO stated. He also pointed out that tolls on more than five hundred kilometres of state highways have now been abolished under the present government’s tenure.

The closures cover major routes such as Tanda-Hoshiarpur Road, Balachaur-Garhshankar-Hoshiarpur-Dasuya Road, the high-level Makkhu bridge, the Samana-Patiaran stretch in Patiala, the Fazilka-Firozpur Highway, and the Ludhiana-Malerkotla-Sangrur corridor. The largest single saving comes from the shutdown of Ladda and Ahmadgarh toll plazas, which together reduce daily costs by thirteen lakh rupees.

For citizens, the change is more than financial. Many described the moment the plazas shut down as the clearing of a long-standing burden. “We say this is not just about closing toll gates but about ending an era of injustice,” Chief Minister Mann said. “Our government is of service, not loot, and this decision has reached the hearts of the people.”

Officials argue that the policy also represents a deeper shift in governance. By ending what the Chief Minister called “the era of renting out roads,” the government seeks to emphasise accountability to citizens rather than reliance on private interests. Supporters of the move say it demonstrates that public welfare has been placed above corporate profits.

The closures have sparked discussion about whether this marks a new phase of development in Punjab. For the Mann government, however, the decision carries symbolic weight as well as economic benefit. “This is not only about smoother traffic or saving money,” said Mann, “it is about trust. When people drive on these roads now, they feel this government truly belongs to them.”

4 Morning Teas That Can Help Reduce Bloating

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Alina Khan

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October 3, 2025

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A gastroenterologist has identified four types of tea that may help prevent morning bloating while supporting digestive health, offering relief for individuals who experience discomfort after breakfast.

Dr. Saurabh Sethi, trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities, shared recommendations for morning beverages that can promote gut health without triggering digestive issues common after the first meal of the day.

Four Recommended Teas

Green Tea: Known for antioxidant properties, green tea contains catechins that may stimulate digestion. “Green tea contains antioxidants and catechins that promote gut health,” Dr. Sethi stated. The beverage may also enhance cognitive function, stabilize blood sugar levels, and potentially reduce certain cancer risks.

Matcha: This concentrated green tea powder contains three times more antioxidants than regular green tea, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Matcha consumption may improve heart health, boost brain function, increase metabolism, and reduce stress and anxiety.

Black Tea: Commonly consumed in India, black tea offers digestive benefits. “It has a lot of polyphenols and antioxidant properties,” Dr. Sethi noted. The beverage contains tannins that may regulate digestion while providing moderate caffeine content.

Peppermint Tea: Particularly soothing for the digestive system, peppermint tea relaxes gastrointestinal tract muscles and may relieve gas and bloating. Dr. Sethi indicated it benefits individuals experiencing bloating and IBS-like symptoms.

Consumption Guidelines

Dr. Sethi provided specific preparation recommendations for maximum digestive benefits:

Avoid Dairy: “Adding milk to these drinks may lead to bloating. Consider using lactose-free milk or plant-based milk,” he advised.

Skip Sugar: Sweeteners may trigger bloating in some individuals. “For sweeteners, you can choose stevia or monk fruit without the erythritol additive,” he recommended.

Nutritional Context

A balanced breakfast typically includes fiber, protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients for sustained energy. However, bloating after morning meals is common, making beverage selection important for digestive comfort.

The recommendations align with growing interest in functional foods and beverages that support digestive health while providing additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

National Awards Under Scrutiny: Rani Mukherjee Says Recognition Is Pointless Without Deserving Winners

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Dhruv

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October 3, 2025

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Actor Rani Mukerji achieved a career milestone earlier this year when she received her first National Film Award. She was honoured with the Best Actress prize for her performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway at the 71st National Awards, which were presented last month at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. While Rani’s recognition was widely celebrated, some of the other winners faced criticism, continuing a long history of debates over jury decisions. Rani believes that the worth of an award is undermined when its legitimacy is questioned.

Speaking in a podcast with ANI, the actor reflected on the significance of winning after three decades in the industry. “We had the entire country and fans rooting for us,” she said, referring also to Shah Rukh Khan, who earned his first National Award this year. “The most satisfying feeling is when people acknowledge that you truly deserve the award. If an award win is disputed, it loses its meaning, but when it is seen as well-earned, it brings a deeper sense of fulfilment.”

The actor also discussed whether such honours really matter to artists. “Everything matters. I work for my audience and I give my best because I want to impress them. When I win an award, it makes my fans happy and proud, and that makes the achievement even more meaningful,” she explained.

Although Rani has collected multiple Filmfare Awards over the years, this was her first National Award. The same is true for Shah Rukh Khan, who received the Best Actor award for Jawan. However, his win sparked debate when admirers of Prithviraj Sukumaran questioned why his performance in the critically acclaimed The GOAT Life was overlooked.

Taylor Swift – ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ Album Launch Crashes Spotify Within Minutes

By

Alina Khan

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October 3, 2025

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Taylor Swift’s latest album release caused immediate chaos on Spotify early Friday morning, with the streaming platform buckling under massive traffic as fans worldwide rushed to hear “The Life of a Showgirl” the moment it dropped at midnight.

Platform Overwhelmed by Taylor Swift

The 13-track album’s release triggered widespread technical issues, with thousands of users reporting they couldn’t access the app.

According to DownDetector, an independent outage monitoring service, over 1,000 complaints flooded in during the initial release moments as Swift’s devoted fanbase—known as Swifties—simultaneously logged in to stream the new music.

Taylor Swift’s Personal Message

Taylor Swift announced the release on Instagram with an emotional statement: “I can’t tell you how proud I am to share this with you, an album that just feels so right. A forever thank you goes out to my mentors and friends Max and Shellback for helping me paint this self portrait. If you thought the big show was wild, perhaps you should come and take a look behind the curtain…The Life of a Showgirl is out now.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

Technical Meltdown

Users across mobile and desktop platforms experienced similar problems—apps refusing to open, tracks failing to load, and complete service unavailability.

The disruption caught fans off guard, many of whom had stayed up specifically to hear the album immediately upon release.

Spotify had promoted the release heavily on its X account, inadvertently contributing to the concentrated surge that overwhelmed its servers. The platform had not issued an official statement regarding the outage at press time.

Fan Reactions Pour In

Social media erupted with frustrated yet amused responses from fans documenting their failed attempts to access the album.

The hashtag tracking the crash began trending as Swifties shared screenshots of error messages and jokes about the collective power of the fanbase literally breaking one of the world’s largest streaming services.

Service Recovery

The platform gradually stabilized as the traffic surge subsided, allowing delayed listeners to finally access the album. The incident highlighted both Swift’s massive commercial appeal and the technical challenges streaming services face during major releases from top-tier artists.

This isn’t the first time a major album drop has stressed streaming infrastructure, but Swift’s ability to generate such concentrated demand remains unmatched in the industry.

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Scheme Disbursement Progress

Staggered Payment Schedule

CM Nitish Kumar Address

Women Empowerment Initiatives

Beneficiary Testimonial

Sudden Termination in US Company

Compensation Details

Online Response

Broader Implications

Registration Timeline of JEE Main 2026

Required Document Updates

Examination Structure

Exam Schedule

Application Process

Examination Significance

Four Recommended Teas

Consumption Guidelines

Nutritional Context

Platform Overwhelmed by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s Personal Message

Technical Meltdown

Fan Reactions Pour In

Service Recovery

NewsWeekPRO

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