News for 'New Scientist'

ICTS Professor Deepak Dhar Honoured With 2026 Dirac Medal

ICTS Professor Deepak Dhar Honoured With 2026 Dirac Medal

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Professor Deepak Dhar of the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS) has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Dirac Medal for his significant contributions to statistical mechanics and complex systems. He shares the honour with three other scientists for their pioneering work extending statistical mechanics into diverse fields like AI and theoretical neuroscience.

5,300 apply for Ram temple trust CEO post, 18 shortlisted

5,300 apply for Ram temple trust CEO post, 18 shortlisted

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust has shortlisted 18 candidates for the Chief Executive Officer position from over 5,300 applicants. Interviews are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, with the CEO's role focusing on temple administration and management. The selection follows allegations of embezzlement of temple donations, which led to an SIT probe and arrests.

China's Hydropower Plants: Why India Must Be Concerned

China's Hydropower Plants: Why India Must Be Concerned

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

It is very unfortunate that China has decided to proceed with the controversial mega hydropower plants(despite the apparent opposition of many scientists in China). Why is Delhi silent about the development? asks Claude Arpi.

IIT Madras Faculty Honoured With ANRF J C Bose Grant For Research Excellence

IIT Madras Faculty Honoured With ANRF J C Bose Grant For Research Excellence

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Six faculty members from IIT Madras have been awarded the prestigious ANRF J C Bose Grant, recognising their outstanding research contributions in engineering and science. The highly competitive grant provides Rs 25 lakh annually for five years to support frontier research.

Why India's Ethanol Blending Policy Needs A Rethink

Why India's Ethanol Blending Policy Needs A Rethink

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

A group of experts has voiced significant concerns regarding India's ethanol-blended fuel policy, citing potential negative impacts on land-use, agriculture patterns, food security, groundwater levels, and household incomes. They recommend a return to E10 fuel and a review of the policy's overall benefits versus costs to consumers and the environment.

10 Films That Took Age-Gap Romance Seriously

10 Films That Took Age-Gap Romance Seriously

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

From Joggers Park to De De Pyaar De, these films dared to make the age gap between their unlikely lovers part of the story rather than something to quietly ignore.

Where the 1857 mutiny left its mark on the road to independence

Where the 1857 mutiny left its mark on the road to independence

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Delhi's Ridge, encompassing areas like Kamla Nehru Ridge, played a pivotal strategic role during the 1857 Revolt against British rule, with sites like the Flagstaff Tower, Hindu Rao's house, and Pir Ghaib serving as crucial military positions and silent witnesses to the intense fighting.

Before Yash's Toxic, 10 Warring Father-Son Duos

Before Yash's Toxic, 10 Warring Father-Son Duos

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Yash's Toxic continues a fascinating trend in Indian cinema where a single star portrays both father and son, often leading to intense on-screen conflicts.

NISAR satellite shows 60cm Venezuela quake ground shift

NISAR satellite shows 60cm Venezuela quake ground shift

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite has provided crucial data revealing the extent of ground displacement caused by recent twin earthquakes in Venezuela. Researchers used the satellite's InSAR technique to map surface changes, showing a significant 60-centimetre shift in areas like Caracas and La Guaira, explaining the severe damage. This marks the first use of NISAR's urgent response system for earthquake surface displacement mapping.

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

US Vice-President J D Vance's unexpected phone call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 8 has ignited speculation about a potential diplomatic overture, possibly seeking India's support amidst the escalating US-Iran conflict and a shifting global power landscape, suggests Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Chandipura virus outbreak: Centre rushes expert team to Gujarat, Rajasthan

Chandipura virus outbreak: Centre rushes expert team to Gujarat, Rajasthan

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Union health ministry has deployed a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) to Gujarat and Rajasthan to strengthen the response to the ongoing Chandipura Virus Disease (CHPV) outbreak.

Indigenous Turbojet Boosts India's Defence Ambitions

Indigenous Turbojet Boosts India's Defence Ambitions

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Built as an expendable, short-duration turbojet engine for single-mission applications, it can power tactical cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, and long-range loitering munitions.

Breakthrough In Quantum Network Transmission Using Existing Fibre

Breakthrough In Quantum Network Transmission Using Existing Fibre

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Researchers have successfully demonstrated the transmission of quantum information over commercial fibre-optic infrastructure, a significant step towards building practical quantum networks. This breakthrough addresses the challenge of cost and maintaining fragile entangled states outside laboratory settings.

Unlocking The Brain's Secret To Learning Plateaus

Unlocking The Brain's Secret To Learning Plateaus

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Researchers have identified the extracellular matrix, a scaffold-like structure around brain cells, as a key physical mechanism explaining why individuals experience rapid progress in learning new skills followed by plateaus. This matrix loosens and rebuilds during initial learning, then stabilises as skills are mastered, protecting acquired knowledge.

New Study Reveals How Solar Winds Strip Mars' Atmosphere

New Study Reveals How Solar Winds Strip Mars' Atmosphere

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

A new study reveals that solar winds gradually strip atmospheric particles from Mars, similar to how wind creates waves on water. Researchers used data from NASA's MAVEN and China's Tianwen-1 missions to identify Kelvin-Helmholtz waves as a key mechanism driving this atmospheric escape, explaining how Mars transformed from a potentially habitable planet to its current cold, dry state.

DRDO Scientist's Leaked Secrets: ATS Files Charge Sheet

DRDO Scientist's Leaked Secrets: ATS Files Charge Sheet

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Maharashtra Police has filed a charge sheet against DRDO scientist Pradeep Kurulkar, who is accused of providing confidential information to a Pakistani intelligence operative.

Vikram-1, India's 1st private orbital-class rocket, successfully enters space

Vikram-1, India's 1st private orbital-class rocket, successfully enters space

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Skyroot Aerospace successfully launched India's first privately developed orbital rocket, Vikram-1, placing multiple technology demonstration payloads and commemorative items, including a postcard from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, into low Earth orbit, marking a significant entry into the global orbital launch market.

Why Ranjit Bajaj Rejected India Manager Role For FIFA U-15 World Cup

Why Ranjit Bajaj Rejected India Manager Role For FIFA U-15 World Cup

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Ranjit Bajaj has declined the manager role for the India U-15 men's national team for the upcoming FIFA U-15 World Cup, citing fundamental differences in footballing philosophy with head coach Bibiano Fernandes.

Sridhar Vembu On Why AI Is Not Creating New IT Jobs

Sridhar Vembu On Why AI Is Not Creating New IT Jobs

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Sridhar Vembu, Zoho Corporation Founder, states that the IT industry is not generating new jobs due to funds being redirected towards the escalating costs of AI and data centre infrastructure. He highlights a structural economic challenge where advanced technology, while making goods affordable, creates income distribution issues and suggests that solutions like Universal Basic Income might gain traction, especially in countries like India.

Madhavan: 'I've Got My Nose Bashed In For Doing Abnormal Stuff'

Madhavan: 'I've Got My Nose Bashed In For Doing Abnormal Stuff'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'I'm on a path of self discovery through these great men. I thought that's the way I can improve myself as a human being and actor.'

Groundbreaking IIT Mandi Research Reveals Cellular Signature Of Anaesthesia In Plants

Groundbreaking IIT Mandi Research Reveals Cellular Signature Of Anaesthesia In Plants

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Scientists at IIT Mandi have identified the cellular signature of anaesthesia in plants, a discovery that challenges conventional understanding of consciousness. Their research shows plants respond to anaesthetics in a synchronised manner, reorganising cellular nuclei despite lacking a brain or nervous system, suggesting a more sentient nature than previously believed and resonating with ancient Indian philosophical thought.

GDN Review: Madhavan Lifts Generic Biopic

GDN Review: Madhavan Lifts Generic Biopic

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

GDN has a fascinating genius at its centre, but Madhavan's terrific performance is let down by a repetitive, overly familiar biopic treatment.

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day, the president stressed that just as government and society remain united to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to safeguard the present and future of students.

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

N Kalaiselvi, the first woman Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has received an extension to her tenure until February 2027. Known for her pioneering work in lithium-ion batteries, Kalaiselvi's extended leadership marks a significant milestone for women in Indian science.

9 Facts About the $50 Million T Rex

9 Facts About the $50 Million T Rex

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

9 fascinating facts about the dinosaur that shattered auction records.

IIT research finds no impact of E20 on fuel efficiency

IIT research finds no impact of E20 on fuel efficiency

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Researchers at IIT Kanpur have found that 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol (E20) does not significantly reduce fuel efficiency or harm vehicle engines, contradicting social media claims and providing reassurance amidst its nationwide rollout. The study supports the Oil Ministry's stance on E20's benefits.

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Redefines Heroism For The Modern Era

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Redefines Heroism For The Modern Era

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey masterfully reinterprets the legendary figure of Odysseus, presenting him as a multifaceted hero grappling with the horrors of war, the responsibilities of leadership, and an enduring longing for home.

How Kerala Aims To Become A National AI And Emerging Technologies Hub

How Kerala Aims To Become A National AI And Emerging Technologies Hub

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan announced the state's vision to become a national hub for artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, coinciding with the launch of Naviq Technology by IBS Software Group. The state government is implementing initiatives like an AI-powered dashboard, a Global Job Watch Tower, and curriculum revisions to align with technological advancements and foster skill development in AI and semiconductor sectors.

Breakthrough: Indian Researchers Create Placenta-On-Chip For Pregnancy Study

Breakthrough: Indian Researchers Create Placenta-On-Chip For Pregnancy Study

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Indian researchers from ICMR-National Institute for Research on Women's Health and IIT Bombay have developed an indigenous "placenta-on-chip" platform. This microphysiological system mimics the human placental barrier, reproducing essential functions like hormone production and nutrient transfer. It offers a simple, scalable tool for studying placental biology, pregnancy complications, and drug effects, aiming to reduce reliance on animal experimentation.

OTT's 10 Best K-Dramas Of 2026 So Far

OTT's 10 Best K-Dramas Of 2026 So Far

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

It's only July but the South Korean drama scene is brimming with action and adrenalin.

Switzerland To Lead Global AI Governance Discussions In 2027

Switzerland To Lead Global AI Governance Discussions In 2027

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Switzerland will host the next global AI summit in June 2027 in Geneva, aiming to establish stable processes for AI governance and promote its responsible use. Building on previous summits, including one in New Delhi, the event will focus on AI as a driver of prosperity and human-centred innovation, bringing together governments, organisations, and civil society to address global challenges.

How Interstellar Sugar Could Unlock Secrets Of Life's Origins

How Interstellar Sugar Could Unlock Secrets Of Life's Origins

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Scientists have detected erythrulose, a sugar found on Earth, in the interstellar medium, marking the first direct discovery of sugar in space. This finding, published in Nature Astronomy, suggests that complex, biologically important molecules can form in space and may have contributed to the chemical ingredients necessary for early metabolic and replication processes on Earth, offering new insights into the origins of life.

Assam Flood Leaves Village Buried in Mud

Assam Flood Leaves Village Buried in Mud

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

A single night of deadly floods wiped out an entire village in Assam, leaving families without homes, cattle or hope.

Ahead Of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Every Spider-Man Film Ranked

Ahead Of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Every Spider-Man Film Ranked

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Ahead of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, we rank every live-action Spider-Man movie from the critically acclaimed Spider-Man 2 to the less successful The Amazing Spider-Man 2.

LG Sinha Urges Scientific Knowledge Translation For Public Health Action

LG Sinha Urges Scientific Knowledge Translation For Public Health Action

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha emphasised the critical need to translate scientific immunological knowledge into public health action. Speaking at the IMMUNOCON-2026 conference, he highlighted immunology's evolving role in healthcare, stressing continuous innovation and collaboration in areas like immuno-AI fusion, climate immunity, and translational medicine to combat infectious diseases and prepare for future global health threats.

CJP Protest: The Rise Of Fearless Youth

CJP Protest: The Rise Of Fearless Youth

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

On camera, youngsters gave their names, where they'd come from, where they were studying or working - and then proceeded to criticize Modi. On camera, they held up posters mocking Modi, points out Jyoti Punwani.

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The 2026 World Cup has been marred by widespread controversy surrounding the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, with coaches, players, and fans criticising its application, consistency, and impact on match outcomes, leading to a significant increase in interventions and red cards.

How Ancient Dharmic Principles Guide Digital Ethics

How Ancient Dharmic Principles Guide Digital Ethics

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

A three-day conference, "Dharma in the Digital Age 2026," is taking place at the University of Houston, bringing together scholars and scientists to discuss how ancient Dharmic principles can address contemporary ethical, technological, and societal challenges, including AI, digital governance, and sustainability.

Indian Scientists Pioneer DME Technology to Replace LPG Amid Supply Concerns

Indian Scientists Pioneer DME Technology to Replace LPG Amid Supply Concerns

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Researchers at CSIR-NCL have developed a technology for producing dimethyl ether (DME) as an alternative to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), potentially reducing India's reliance on imports and enhancing energy security.

How India's Mobile Algal Tree Fights Urban Pollution

How India's Mobile Algal Tree Fights Urban Pollution

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Researchers at CSIR-CIMFR have developed India's first mobile Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT), an innovative air-purification system using microalgae to absorb CO2 and release oxygen. Designed for polluted urban areas, this compact unit offers a sustainable solution where conventional tree planting is challenging, also providing public utility features.