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India has successfully tested its first high-powered laser weapon, marking a significant advancement in its defense capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a field demonstration of the Laser Directed Weapon MK-II at Kurnool. This system effectively tracked and destroyed fixed-wing drones and drone swarms, showcasing its potential in modern combat scenarios, as noted by DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat. According to the DRDO, the MK-II's successful trials place India alongside global powers like the United States, Russia, and China, which have also developed similar capabilities. The laser weapon engages targets at the speed of light, aiming to cut through drones swiftly and minimizing collateral damage. Kamat emphasized that this marks only the beginning of India's journey into advanced weaponry, with ongoing developments in high-energy technologies intended to enhance military effectiveness. The rise of unmanned aerial systems stresses the urgent need for efficient countermeasures, and the MK-II is positioned to replace traditional missile systems due to its cost-effectiveness and operational simplicity.

A disturbing video showing the torture of a bear has gone viral, prompting outrage across social media. The incident reportedly took place in the Sukma district of Chhattisgarh, where it has been claimed that local villagers tortured the bear to death. According to forest officer RC Dugga, the footage depicts the bear in extreme pain, suffering injuries from being hit with sticks and having its nails pulled out. It also shows individuals violently manipulating the bear's body. Local officials stated that anyone found guilty of such acts could face jail sentences of up to two years under animal cruelty laws. In response to the incident, the Sukma forest division and range officer have formed a team to locate those involved, and a reward of ₹10,000 (approximately $120) has been announced for any information leading to their identification. This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare and the need for stricter enforcement of laws protecting wildlife in India.

Authorities in Rajasthan have dismantled a human trafficking operation disguised as a non-governmental organization (NGO) that falsely claimed to facilitate mass marriages for women from impoverished backgrounds. The Gayatri Sarva Samaj Foundation, located in a farmhouse near Bassi, allegedly bought girls from agents trafficking children from Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh, selling them to young men for prices ranging between ₹250,000 to ₹500,000 (approximately $3,000 to $6,000), as reported by Bassi police station in-charge Abhijit Patil. The scheme came to light when a 16-year-old girl from Uttar Pradesh escaped and contacted police, leading to a raid on the farmhouse. During the operation, officials arrested the NGO's director, Gayatri Vishwakarma, along with three accomplices, including Hanuman, Bhagwan Das, and Mahendra. Investigators revealed that Vishwakarma had been involved in approximately 1,500 such arranged marriages and had multiple prior cases against her. Authorities also found that she falsified identification documents to misrepresent the ages of minors, indicating a deep-rooted criminal enterprise.