Local Round-up: Red Pandas in Sikkim, Ganga Flood Alert to Return of Relics of Buddha

From devastating incidents in Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh to breakthroughs in science and conservation, this week’s headlines reflect the intensity and diversity of news across India. Here’s your weekly digest, spotlighting everything from natural disasters and landmark court rulings to extraordinary animal births and sporting triumphs.

Granite Quarry Collapse in Andhra Pradesh Kills Six, Injures Ten; Rescue Operations Ongoing

A tragic rock collapse at a granite quarry in Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh, claimed the lives of six workers from Odisha and injured ten others. The incident occurred during blasting operations, causing massive boulders to fall on workers. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with authorities deploying excavators and search teams. The State Disaster Response Force is investigating the cause of the collapse. The site has been temporarily shut pending a full safety inspection and legal inquiry.

Two Red Panda Cubs Born at Himalayan Zoological Park After Seven-Year Gap

After a seven-year wait, two Red Panda cubs have been born at the Himalayan Zoological Park in Bulbuley, Sikkim. The rare birth is a significant win for conservationists, as Red Pandas are classified as endangered. Zoo officials confirmed the cubs are healthy and being monitored around the clock. Breeding efforts at the park are part of a broader attempt to preserve Sikkim’s unique Himalayan biodiversity. The cubs are not yet on public display.

Yashasvi Jaiswal Hits Sixth Test Century, Fourth Against England at The Oval

Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his phenomenal form with his sixth Test century—his fourth against England—during the match at The Oval. His composed innings not only helped India to a formidable total but also equalled a world record for the most Test centuries against England in a single series. The 22-year-old opener has quickly become India’s standout performer, drawing comparisons to batting legends. Fans and experts praised his technique and mental discipline.

Prajwal Revanna Sentenced to Life for Raping 47-Year-Old Domestic Worker

Former MP Prajwal Revanna has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a Bengaluru court for raping a 47-year-old domestic worker. The court also imposed a fine and denied his plea for leniency. The case has sparked political ripples given Revanna’s high-profile lineage in Karnataka politics. The judge noted the survivor’s consistent testimony and the severity of the abuse. Revanna, who broke down in court, is expected to appeal the ruling.

Flood Alert Issued in Uttar Pradesh as Ganga and Yamuna Water Levels Rise

A flood alert has been issued in parts of Uttar Pradesh, including Prayagraj and Varanasi, as water levels in the Ganga and Yamuna rise due to heavy rainfall. Officials are closely monitoring the situation, warning residents in low-lying areas to stay prepared. While the rivers are currently below the danger mark, forecasts suggest further increase. Disaster response teams have been stationed along embankments. The state government is urging precautionary evacuation if needed.

Buddha’s Piprahwa Relics Return to India After 127 Years, PM Modi Welcomes Moment

The revered Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha have returned to India after 127 years, brought back from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the return as a “joyous and spiritual day.” The relics will be placed on public display in India, rekindling historical and religious ties. Their return follows extended diplomatic discussions and cultural cooperation agreements. The relics were originally discovered in Uttar Pradesh’s Piprahwa in the 19th century.

GSLV-F16 Successfully Launches NISAR Earth Observation Satellite into Polar Orbit

India’s GSLV-F16 successfully launched the joint NASA-ISRO satellite, NISAR, into a sun-synchronous polar orbit from Sriharikota. The satellite is designed to monitor Earth’s land surface changes, ice-sheet dynamics, and natural disasters using advanced radar imaging. NISAR will provide crucial data for climate science, agriculture, and disaster management. The launch marks a major milestone in Indo-US space collaboration and reinforces ISRO’s role as a leader in low-cost, high-impact space missions.

Schengen Visa Moves Fully Digital by 2028, Replacing Physical Stickers with Secure Barcodes

The Schengen visa application process will go entirely digital by 2028, streamlining travel to 29 European countries. Applicants will use a unified EU platform to receive digitally signed barcode visas, replacing traditional physical stickers. Border authorities will scan these barcodes for instant data access. First-time applicants must still attend in-person biometric appointments, but future applications will be simplified with biometrics already on file. The update aims to reduce paperwork and enhance security for travellers.