The post The Science of Finger Length and Brain Development appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>
The study, which involved research on 225 young children, found that boys with longer index fingers tended to have a larger head circumference. A larger head circumference is often associated with a brain that develops rapidly. This discovery suggests that specific developmental traits are established even before birth.
The length of the fingers depends on which hormones are more prevalent before birth. While a larger brain is often seen as a sign of quick intelligence and good memory, researchers noted that evolution played a role over millions of years as the human body adapted. Interestingly, while high estrogen levels might lead to a larger brain, it can also mean the body may have to work harder to fight certain diseases in the future.
How to check yourself:
* If your first finger (index) is long, your brain may have grown very rapidly during childhood.
* If your ring finger is longer, it may indicate a natural aptitude for sports or high-intensity physical activities.
* Your fingers are essentially a small “report card” of your biological development.
The post The Science of Finger Length and Brain Development appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post New Protocol: All Six Stanzas of Vande Mataram Mandatory Before National Anthem appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>
For the first time, the Ministry has defined a specific protocol for singing “Vande Mataram”. These rules apply to official programs such as the arrival of the President, the hoisting of the National Flag, and speeches by Governors.
In such instances, all six stanzas of the National Song, which have a total duration of three minutes and ten seconds, must be performed. This order was officially released on January 28.
The guidelines further state that the school day must begin with the singing of the National Song. The Ministry emphasized that whenever the National Song is played, everyone present is required to stand in an attentive posture to show respect. However, an exception is made for cinema or documentaries; if the National Song is played as part of a film or newsreel, the audience is not expected to stand.
The post New Protocol: All Six Stanzas of Vande Mataram Mandatory Before National Anthem appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post Opposition Moves No-Confidence Motion Against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The opposition has leveled serious allegations against the Speaker, primarily focusing on the suppression of the Leader of the Opposition’s voice during the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address and the forced suspension of eight members. In response to these developments, sources indicate that Om Birla has decided on ethical grounds not to occupy the Speaker’s chair until the matter is resolved.
The Lok Sabha Secretariat has confirmed that proceedings will follow established rules. The notice was handed over to Secretary General Utpal Kumar Singh by a delegation including Congress Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi, Chief Whip K. Suresh, and MP Mohammad Javed, among others. While members from the Congress, SP, DMK, and RJD have signed the notice, notable absences include the signatures of Rahul Gandhi and members of the TMC.
Four Major Allegations by the Opposition:
* February 2: Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi was allegedly prevented from completing his speech during the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address.
* February 3: Eight MPs were suspended for the remainder of the session, a move the opposition describes as punishment for exercising democratic rights.
* Nishikant Dubey Case: The notice mentions objectionable remarks made against former Prime Ministers without naming Nishikant Dubey.
* Misuse of Office: The opposition rejected the Speaker’s claim that Congress members intended to cause an “untoward incident” near the Prime Minister’s seat, calling such accusations a blatant misuse of a constitutional position.
The post Opposition Moves No-Confidence Motion Against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post Strict Crackdown on Cyber Fraud, Says Amit Shah appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Shah was addressing a conference organized with the support of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre. He stated that the mule account detection system developed by the ministry should be adopted by all banks to prevent misuse of financial channels by criminals.
Highlighting the growing threat, the Home Minister said that in the country one person falls victim to cyber fraud every 37 seconds. On average, about 90 individuals are cheated every hour. As digital transactions continue to rise rapidly, the risk associated with cyber crimes is also increasing. He noted that these crimes are emerging in an organized manner and criminals are adopting new technologies, making collective action essential.
Shah also instructed police officials to ensure adequate staffing at the 1930 cyber helpline call centers so that complaints can be handled promptly and effectively.
In a separate development, the central government has tightened regulations for social media platforms. Under the new rules, any photo or video created using artificial intelligence must carry a clear label indicating that it is AI generated. If any unlawful or misleading content is uploaded on these platforms, companies will be required to remove it within three hours of receiving information about it.
The new regulations will come into effect from February 20. Non compliance may invite strict action and financial penalties. The government stated that these measures aim to enhance transparency, prevent misuse of technology and strengthen the country’s cyber security framework.
The post Strict Crackdown on Cyber Fraud, Says Amit Shah appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post Assistant Commissioner Among Two Suspended in Hamirpur Industry Office Bribery Case appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The action follows a detailed inquiry conducted under the supervision of the District Magistrate. The investigation revealed that beneficiaries were allegedly forced to pay money through middlemen and departmental staff to avail themselves of benefits under different schemes.
According to the findings, beneficiaries were provided tool kits only after depositing half of the sanctioned amount in advance. Complaints suggested that money was being collected in the name of facilitating loans and subsidies under the Chief Minister Self Employment Scheme at the District Industry Centre.
After receiving complaints, District Magistrate Ghanshyam Meena constituted a joint inquiry team of the Chief Development Officer and the Additional District Magistrate. The probe confirmed the involvement of Ravi Verma and Santosh Rao in the irregularities. Following submission of the report, the government ordered their suspension on Monday and directed disciplinary proceedings against them.
In the same matter, District Manager Milan Kumar has already been dismissed from service. The investigation further indicated that the three officials acted in collusion and the alleged malpractice had reportedly been continuing for nearly five years.
The post Assistant Commissioner Among Two Suspended in Hamirpur Industry Office Bribery Case appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post Uttar Pradesh Economy Doubles in Nine Years, Claims Yogi Government appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>According to the report, the state’s Gross State Domestic Product was around Rs 13.30 lakh crore in 2016 to 17. It increased steadily over the years and reached approximately Rs 30.25 lakh crore in 2024 to 25. For the financial year 2025 to 26, the economy is projected to cross Rs 36 lakh crore. The report highlighted that Uttar Pradesh has emerged as one of the fastest growing state economies in the country.
The Economic Review also pointed to consistent improvement in growth rates. The state’s growth rate, which was around 8.6 percent in 2016 to 17, is estimated to have risen to 9.1 percent in 2024 to 25. The government said that this reflects sustained economic expansion and better financial management.
Among the key highlights of the review, the per capita income in 2025 to 26 is expected to reach around Rs 1,20,000. The government said that efforts are being made to ensure balanced development across agriculture, industry and the service sector. It added that investment in infrastructure, digital economy and green energy has been prioritised to strengthen long term growth.
The report mentioned that the Ayodhya airport has been made operational and five international airports are expected to be functional in the state, further boosting connectivity and economic activity. Measures have also been taken to improve ease of doing business and attract private investment.
Before the start of the Budget Session, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that this is the tenth Budget of his government and reflects the aspirations of the people. He stated that dialogue and coordination among departments are essential for effective governance and development.
Governor Anandiben Patel, in her address to the joint session of the Legislature, described Uttar Pradesh as a Breakthrough State. She said that over the past nine years, the state has moved beyond its earlier image and is now being recognised for effective law and order, economic reforms, agricultural progress, women empowerment and infrastructure development.
The Governor added that the government’s policies, administrative efficiency and focus on development have strengthened public confidence. She also said that the law and order situation in the state now meets national standards and has contributed to attracting investment.
The Economic Review further noted that per capita income, which stood at around Rs 54,564 in 2016 to 17, increased to nearly Rs 1,09,844 in 2024 to 25. It is projected to cross Rs 1,20,000 in 2025 to 26. Urbanisation is also rising steadily, with the share of the urban population expected to increase significantly by 2046.
The government emphasised that its focus remains on employment generation, inclusive growth and making Uttar Pradesh self reliant while strengthening its position as a major economic power in the country.
The post Uttar Pradesh Economy Doubles in Nine Years, Claims Yogi Government appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post Accused in Ram Temple Attack Conspiracy Killed Inside Neemka Jail appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Nuh SP Ashok Kumar Verma addressed the media on Monday and stated that a dispute broke out inside a barrack of Neemka Jail on Sunday night. During the altercation, another inmate, identified as Arun Chaudhary, allegedly attacked Rahman with a stone around 2 am. Rahman sustained serious head injuries. He was immediately taken to the jail hospital for primary treatment, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Rahman had been arrested last year by Gujarat and Palwal police from Pali village in March. Authorities said he was earlier apprehended from a farmhouse in Faridabad. He was allegedly hiding there under the name Shankar. At the time of his arrest, police had recovered two hand grenades, detonators and other materials from him.
Following news of Rahman’s death, his father left Ayodhya on Monday to collect his son’s body from Faridabad. The family is expected to return on Tuesday. Rahman was a resident of Mughalai Bazaar.
Police officials stated that Arun Chaudhary has several criminal cases registered against him in Jammu and Kashmir, including charges of murder and attempt to murder. He was transferred from Kathua Jail to Neemka Jail in 2024. Another accused named Yakub Riaz was also present in the same barrack at the time of the incident.
A murder case has been registered against Arun Chaudhary. Police said he will soon be taken on production warrant for further questioning as the investigation continues.
The post Accused in Ram Temple Attack Conspiracy Killed Inside Neemka Jail appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post No Concern Over 500 Billion Dollar Imports From US in Five Years, Says Piyush Goyal appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Speaking in New Delhi, Goyal explained that India currently imports goods worth nearly 300 billion dollars from the US. With steady economic expansion, this figure could rise significantly in the coming years. He stated that India’s economy is expected to create demand worth nearly two trillion dollars, making higher imports manageable. He assured that while India welcomes trade, it will remain competitive in the global market.
Goyal emphasized that adequate safeguards have been incorporated in the trade understanding with the United States to protect the interests of Indian farmers and domestic industries. He said that the government has carefully negotiated the terms to ensure that sensitive sectors are not adversely affected.
Referring to the livestock and poultry sectors, the minister noted that India has agreed to certain tariff rate quotas for products such as corn based animal feed, also known as DDGS. He said this decision would strengthen the poultry and animal husbandry sectors by ensuring access to quality feed at competitive prices.
Goyal added that India is negotiating trade agreements with confidence and strength. He pointed out that India could access a market worth 35 trillion dollars in the future through such partnerships. According to him, the objective of these agreements is to expand opportunities for Indian goods and services globally.
The minister further stated that Indian farmers are already exporting agricultural products worth 50 to 55 billion dollars. With improved access to international markets, including the United States, farmers are expected to benefit from better prices and higher demand. He highlighted that Indian products will gain a competitive advantage in the American market, especially when compared with countries that face higher tariffs.
Meanwhile, political reactions have also emerged. Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar said that the India US trade understanding would boost economic development and create new employment opportunities for youth. He remarked that the agreement was finalized after detailed discussions and careful consideration.
On the other hand, the Communist Party of India Marxist expressed concern, alleging that the agreement could pose risks to the country’s economic sovereignty. The party claimed that excessive concessions may have been granted to the United States. In response, the Prime Minister’s Office clarified that national interests remain paramount in all trade negotiations.
Overall, the government maintains that the proposed expansion in trade with the United States will strengthen India’s economy, generate jobs, support farmers, and safeguard domestic industries while enhancing India’s position in global markets.
The post No Concern Over 500 Billion Dollar Imports From US in Five Years, Says Piyush Goyal appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post Large Scale Recruitment Drive Planned in Higher Education Institutions appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>In several central universities and medical colleges, many professorial and associate level positions are unfilled. Officials have indicated that vacant posts, especially in reserved categories, have created operational challenges for institutions. To resolve this, the government is examining proposals to expand the total number of posts so that even if reserved seats remain unfilled due to a lack of eligible candidates, general category appointments can still be accommodated without reducing representation norms.
According to available information, around 45 central universities across the country have nearly 5,400 vacant teaching posts. These include positions for Professors, Associate Professors and Assistant Professors. A substantial portion of these vacancies fall under reserved categories. In some institutions, up to 40 percent of sanctioned positions are reportedly vacant.
Data presented in Parliament earlier also highlighted that out of thousands of approved teaching posts, a significant number remain unoccupied. In certain universities, more than 6,000 posts are sanctioned, yet over 2,500 positions are vacant. Nearly half of the sanctioned posts are reserved under various constitutional provisions, and reports suggest that 90 to 95 percent of the vacant positions belong to reserved categories.
The government has directed central institutions to speed up recruitment processes. Universities have been asked to launch special drives to fill reserved category posts on priority. An online recruitment portal has also been introduced to simplify and streamline appointments in central universities.
Earlier, the Supreme Court had directed that vacancies in higher education institutions should be filled within a specified time frame. Following concerns that more than 70 percent of posts were vacant in some institutions, directions were issued to complete recruitment within a few months.
Officials say that the process of converting reserved vacancies into general category posts is lengthy and involves multiple approvals from regulatory bodies and ministries. Because of this, filling posts through reclassification is not considered a quick solution. Instead, increasing the total number of sanctioned posts is being explored as a practical alternative.
Efforts are also underway to conduct interviews and selection procedures in a time bound manner. In some institutions, interviews for faculty recruitment are now being completed within three months to prevent delays.
The proposed expansion in total posts is aimed at ensuring that universities function smoothly without compromising reservation policies. By increasing the sanctioned strength, authorities hope to maintain representation while also addressing faculty shortages that impact teaching and research activities.
The post Large Scale Recruitment Drive Planned in Higher Education Institutions appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>The post No Import Duty on 44 Billion Dollar US Exports to India Says Piyush Goyal appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>Goyal explained that around 30 billion dollars worth of Indian goods exported to the United States will continue to face an average tariff of 18 percent, which includes labour-intensive products. However, nearly 12 billion dollars worth of Indian exports, including some agricultural items, will see no change in the existing duty structure.
He further stated that commodities such as steel, aluminium, copper and automobile components are currently subject to uniform tariffs across countries. The United States imposes up to 50 percent duty on these items, but this was introduced as an interim measure. India expects these rates to be reviewed and adjusted in the first phase of the upcoming bilateral trade agreement.
The minister highlighted that the government aims to ensure balanced trade growth while protecting domestic industries. He added that the proposed trade framework will help improve market access and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
No Import Duty on These Products
According to the minister, agricultural products including meat, poultry, dairy products, apples, tree nuts, soya meal, oilseeds, grains, maize, barley, fruits such as bananas and berries, dry fruits, pulses, chickpeas, lentils, pet food, honey and malt will not attract import duty.
India–US Trade Measures to Protect Domestic Industry
Goyal clarified that India remains firm on safeguarding its farmers and micro, small and medium enterprises. He said India will continue to raise concerns at international forums against unfair trade practices and dumping. The country’s approach is to strengthen its manufacturing base while maintaining fair competition.
Boeing and Airbus Orders to Increase
The commerce minister noted that India is likely to increase aircraft purchases from Boeing and Airbus in the future. He said several Indian airlines have already held discussions with the top management of both companies regarding fleet expansion and long-term supply arrangements.
Quota-Based Duty Relief on Apples
Under the proposed trade arrangement, India will provide quota-based duty concessions on apples imported from the United States. Imports beyond the quota limit will attract a 25 percent duty. The quota will be capped at 80,000 metric tonnes annually.
On Tariff Parity
Responding to a query, Goyal said that zero-duty access under the agreement would improve India’s competitiveness in the US market. He pointed out that while the per capita income in the United States is around 90,000 dollars, India’s per capita income stands close to 3,000 dollars, making balanced trade policies essential.
The post No Import Duty on 44 Billion Dollar US Exports to India Says Piyush Goyal appeared first on The Edge Media.
]]>