International

Viral Buzz: Katy Perry Seen Learning Rubik’s Cube With ‘Office of the Prime Minister’ Stationery Sparks Online Reactions


A video making rounds on social media platforms has sparked widespread discussion after showing global pop icon Katy Perry attempting to learn how to solve a Rubik’s cube while using stationery bearing the words “Office of the Prime Minister.”

The clip has quickly gained traction online, with users debating whether the moment was part of a casual behind-the-scenes setting, a promotional activity, or simply a humorous interaction captured on camera. While the visuals have fuelled speculation and memes, no official confirmation has been issued regarding the context or any political association linked to the scene.

The Rubik’s cube, often associated with problem-solving and creativity, has frequently appeared in celebrity videos as a light-hearted challenge. In this case, the presence of official-looking stationery has added an unexpected twist, prompting online conversations about symbolism, public image, and viral storytelling.

As with many trending moments, audiences are encouraged to view such clips with context and caution, recognising that viral content often spreads faster than verified details. Regardless, the clip highlights how even simple activities — like learning a puzzle — can quickly capture global attention when celebrities are involved.

Health

Manipal Hospital Goa Launches ‘mahi’ — A Next-Generation Preventive Health & Wellness Platform


Panaji, Goa — Manipal Hospital Goa, part of the Manipal Hospitals Group, has officially launched mahi (Manipal Hospitals Healthy India), a next-generation preventive health and wellness platform aimed at making proactive healthcare simple, accessible, and personalised.

The platform was formally launched by Dr. Maya Pai Dhungat, Consultant Internal Medicine Physician at Manipal Hospitals, Panaji, in the presence of senior leadership including Mr. Surendra Prasad, Hospital Director; Mrs. Gauri Naik, Marketing Manager; Dr. Sheren Bhat, Medical Superintendent; Dr. Pratima Bahadoria, Operations Manager; Mr. Subhash Nayak, Engineering & Maintenance Manager; Delina Figueiredo, Human Resource Manager; Anita T, Nursing Superintendent; Jince Jose, Finance Manager; along with hospital staff and patients.

The launch comes at a time when India’s preventive healthcare market is rapidly expanding, driven by growing health awareness, post-pandemic behavioural shifts, and the increasing burden of chronic diseases affecting millions. The initiative reflects a strong focus on early detection, regular monitoring, and proactive wellness practices.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Surendra Prasad, Hospital Director, highlighted that preventive healthcare plays a crucial role in long-term well-being, enabling individuals to make informed health decisions and reduce the impact of chronic illnesses through early diagnosis.

Designed as a personalised wellness companion, mahi supports users throughout their health journey — from screenings and consultations to vaccinations and ongoing wellness guidance. The platform introduces profile-based health check packages tailored for Teens, Men, Women, Seniors, and Super Seniors, ensuring relevance across different life stages.

mahi integrates multiple services into a connected preventive healthcare ecosystem, including:

mahi check — curated screening packages
mahi doc — round-the-clock doctor consultations
mahi shots — adult and preventive vaccinations

Accessible via digital platforms such as the website and mobile app, as well as assisted hospital and community touchpoints, mahi aims to simplify healthcare engagement for individuals and families.

With its blend of digital convenience, customised health offerings, and clinical expertise, Manipal Hospital Goa positions mahi as a positive lifestyle choice — encouraging people to adopt preventive healthcare as a consistent habit rather than a reactive response.

National

Delhi Launches ‘Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana’: Girls to Receive ₹1 Lakh Support from Birth Till Graduation


New Delhi — In a significant move focused on empowering the girl child, the Delhi government has launched the ‘Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana’, a financial assistance programme designed to provide long-term support to girls from birth until they complete their graduation.\

Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries will receive structured financial benefits that can collectively amount to ₹1 lakh, aimed at encouraging education, improving social security, and supporting families in investing in their daughters’ futures. Officials say the initiative reflects a broader commitment to gender equality and inclusive development.

The programme is expected to provide phased financial assistance linked to key milestones such as school enrolment, continued education, and higher studies. By offering sustained support rather than a one-time grant, the scheme seeks to reduce dropout rates and promote higher education among girls.

Government representatives highlighted that the initiative also aligns with national and state-level goals to improve literacy rates and create opportunities for young women. Apart from financial incentives, awareness campaigns and outreach programmes may be conducted to ensure that eligible families are informed about the benefits.

Policy analysts view the scheme as part of a growing trend among Indian states to introduce targeted welfare programmes focused on empowering the girl child through education, financial stability, and social protection.

As the rollout begins, many are watching closely to see how the ‘Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana’ impacts educational outcomes and long-term empowerment for girls in Delhi.

International

UK Records Rainfall Every Day Since Start of 2026 Amid Relentless Wet Weather


The United Kingdom is witnessing one of its wettest starts to a year, as rain has been recorded across parts of the country every day since the beginning of 2026. Meteorologists say a series of Atlantic weather systems combined with shifting climate patterns have kept skies grey and conditions persistently damp.

Forecasters have reported that repeated low-pressure systems sweeping in from the west have delivered steady showers, heavy downpours, and strong winds across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Some regions experienced rainfall levels significantly higher than seasonal averages, raising concerns over localised flooding and travel disruptions.

Weather experts suggest that the pattern is linked to a prolonged jet stream positioning that funnels moisture-laden air over the British Isles. While rainy spells are not unusual during winter, the consistency of daily precipitation has drawn attention from climate observers and the public alike.

Communities across the UK have faced delays to rail services, waterlogged roads, and cancellations of outdoor events. Farmers have also expressed concern about saturated soil conditions, which could impact early planting schedules if the wet weather persists into spring.

The Met Office has indicated that unsettled conditions may continue in the coming weeks, though brief dry intervals are possible. Analysts note that extreme weather variability — including extended rainfall periods — is becoming more frequent globally, reflecting broader environmental shifts.

As residents adapt to the unusually long stretch of rain, discussions around climate resilience, infrastructure planning, and sustainable urban design are once again taking centre stage. For now, umbrellas remain an essential accessory across the UK as 2026 begins under relentlessly rainy skies.

National

Centre Issues New ‘Vande Mataram’ Protocol: Audience to Stand, Song to Precede National Anthem at Joint Events


New Delhi — The Union Home Ministry has issued updated guidelines regarding the performance of ‘Vande Mataram’, India’s National Song, outlining specific protocols to be followed during official and ceremonial occasions.

According to the latest directives, whenever the official version of ‘Vande Mataram’ is sung or played, members of the audience are required to stand to attention as a mark of respect. The guidelines aim to ensure uniformity and clarity in how the National Song is presented at government and public events across the country.

The Ministry has also clarified the sequence to be followed when both the National Song and the National Anthem are performed together. In such cases, ‘Vande Mataram’ will be sung first, followed by the National Anthem, reinforcing ceremonial consistency.

In addition, the new protocol specifies that ‘Vande Mataram’ will be played at civilian award ceremonies — including prestigious honours such as the Padma Awards — as well as at official functions attended by the President of India. The song will be played during the President’s arrival and departure at such events.

Officials say the updated guidelines are intended to standardise practices and uphold the dignity associated with national symbols, while ensuring that event organisers and institutions follow a clear framework during formal ceremonies.

The announcement has sparked discussions around cultural heritage, protocol awareness, and the evolving role of national symbols in contemporary public life.