National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has become India’s first NIT with a dedicated campus-based astronomical observatory. The Observatory for Astronomy and Astrophysics is equipped with a high-performance 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. The facility is developed with scientific guidance from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru. It will enable advanced astronomical observation and imaging of the Moon, planets, nebulae, star clusters and distant galaxies. The observatory is expected to promote astronomy education, research and practical training among students and researchers.

India co-hosted the launch of OneSCD, a global partnership aimed at advancing equity and transforming Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) care. The launch was held on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81) in New York. Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, highlighted India’s efforts through the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. The Mission was launched in 2023 with the goal of eliminating Sickle Cell Disease as a public health problem by 2047. India reaffirmed its commitment to a coordinated, equitable and sustainable global response to Sickle Cell Disease.

Satnam Singh and Salman Khan won the bronze medal in men’s double sculls at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. It was India’s first-ever Asian Games medal in the men’s double sculls event. The Indian pair clocked 6:13.25 at the Nagaragawa International Regatta Course. China’s Yi Xudi and Nie Yide won gold with a time of 6:09.77. Uzbekistan’s Mekhrojbek Mamatkulov and Pavel Sorin secured silver in 6:10.49.

Mizoram has launched ‘Pluck & Pay’ festival to promote rural tourism and community-based livelihoods. The three-day festival was held from 23–25 September 2026 in Tualte and Chawngtlai villages of Khawzawl district. Visitors can harvest farm produce themselves and pay farmers directly, creating a direct link between tourism and farming households. The festival combines agriculture, horticulture, tourism, local cuisine, handicrafts, Mizo music and dance, and traditional games. The initiative aims to benefit farmers, homestays, guides, transport operators, artisans and other local enterprises.

INS Trishul has arrived at Toulon, France, to participate in the 24th edition of Exercise VARUNA. VARUNA is a bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and French Navy. It aims to enhance interoperability, exchange operational experiences and best practices, and strengthen mutual understanding between the two navies. The exercise reflects the expanding maritime cooperation and strategic partnership between India and France.