HONC Gas Pvt. Ltd. says the technology converts purified water into hydrogen gas through a proprietary multi-stage electrolysis and gas-blending process. The company is awaiting government approval to bring the technology to market.

A private company, HONC Gas Pvt. Ltd., has claimed to have indigenously developed a technology to convert purified water directly into hydrogen gas through a proprietary multi-stage electrolysis and gas-blending process.

The company on Friday demonstrated the technology at its factory in Avinashi, Tiruppur, where devices ranging from kitchen-top gas stoves to industrial burners were operated with its gas.

Bealur Ramalingam Kaarthic, founder of the company, told journalists that HONC Gas could be applied across heavy and large industries currently relying on fossil fuels, but all equipment must be compatible with the fuel. “While the core technology is complete, the supporting equipment and components are yet to be developed for full-scale industrial use,” he said. However, the technology needs to be scientifically validated.

According to him, his “innovation”, Gyroid Electrolyte Membrane (GEM), produces a precise mixture of hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) for fuel generation. “When purified water is poured into the HONC gas generators, the hydrogen and the oxygen are broken down after which the combine is converted into hydrogen gas through multiple scientific processes,” he said. “The GEM technology generates fuel on demand, removing the need for compression, long-distance transport, or storage,” he added.

“HONC Gas operates entirely on purified water, producing hydrogen fuel instantly with no carbon emissions, reflecting its name: Hydrogen–Oxygen, No Carbon,” he added.

“These power generator units, which convert water into hydrogen gas, are fully indigenous and run on DC current or solar power while recycling energy. They consume minimal quantities of water. The system is cost-efficient: boiling one litre of water with LPG takes 5.36 minutes at ₹0.63, while using HONC Gas, it takes 1.32 minutes at ₹0.14,” he said.

Actor-politician R. Sarath Kumar, who is the executive director of the company, said it has completed the patenting process and submitted the technology to State and Central government authorities. The company is awaiting approval to bring the technology to market, after which the cost of HONC Gas generators will be finalised.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

The aircraft was the backbone of the IAF till the mid-2000s, playing crucial roles in the 1965 and 1971 wars, the 1999 Kargil conflict, the 2019 Balakot air strikes, and most recently Operation Sindoor.

The Indian Air Force will officially retire its legendary MiG-21 fighter jets on September 26, marking the end of nearly six decades of service for the aircraft widely hailed as the “workhorse” of India’s air defence.

A ceremonial flypast and decommissioning event will be held at the IAF base in Chandigarh and will be attended by senior military leaders and veteran pilots who have flown the jet across generations.

Inducted in 1963, the MiG-21 was India’s first supersonic fighter, with its maiden squadron — the 28 Squadron at Chandigarh — earning the nickname First Supersonics. Over the years, India inducted more than 700 MiG-21s of different variants, many built domestically by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

The aircraft was the backbone of the IAF till the mid-2000s, playing crucial roles in the 1965 and 1971 wars, the 1999 Kargil conflict, the 2019 Balakot air strikes, and most recently Operation Sindoor. It was in a MiG-21 that Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman (then Wing Commander) shot down a Pakistani F-16 in 2019 before being captured across the border.

Besides combat successes, the MiG-21 also boosted India’s aerospace industry, pushing indigenous manufacturing and technological capabilities to new levels.

In August this year, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh paid tribute to the jet with solo sorties from the Nal airbase in Bikaner in Rajasthan.

The IAF, in a post on X, described the MiG-21 as a “warhorse that carried the pride of a nation into the skies,” releasing a tribute video showcasing its storied history.

As the MiG-21 squadrons are phased out, the IAF’s combat strength will dip to 29 squadrons. However, senior officers have hinted that the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk 1A will step in to replace the ageing fighter in the years to come.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

Despite their profound value, these sites face growing pressures from rapid tourism, encroachment, grazing, fuelwood collection, and declining traditional beliefs.

 Uttarakhand, revered as ‘Devbhoomi’ or the Land of Gods, has taken a monumental step towards formally recognising the deep spiritual connection embedded in its landscape. For the first time, the State Forest Department has meticulously identified and documented 161 Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) across the state, offering a tangible testament to the ancient faith and profound reverence for nature defining this Himalayan abode.

This landmark initiative maps the pervasive divinity within the state, encompassing sacred forests, groves, high-altitude meadows (bugyals), and pristine lakes. These sites represent a unique blend of ecological richness and spiritual sanctity, often embodying localised worship protected for centuries by community reverence.

“This is the first systematic scientific documentation that goes beyond groves to include lakes and bugyals,” stated Chief Conservator of Forests Sanjiv Chaturvedi, who guided the year-long study, in conversation with TNIE. He added, “Sacred groves offer a beacon—a model demonstrating that safeguarding nature begins with respect and community stewardship.”

Many of these sites are steeped in ancient tales and local folklore, connecting them to deities or significant mythological events. This deep-rooted cultural protection has inadvertently made these areas vital ecological hotspots. Researchers found these SNS play crucial ecological roles—regulating microclimates, conserving water, preventing soil erosion, and providing habitats for rare flora and fauna, including endangered species like Brahmakamal.

These sacred spaces are widespread. In Garhwal, 46 SNS were mapped, including revered spots like Ulkagadi temple (Pauri), Anusuya Devi (Chamoli), Surkanda Devi (Tehri), and the iconic Tungnath (Rudraprayag) – all rooted in pristine alpine forests. Other significant sites like Rudranath and Hemkund Sahib also blend spiritual pilgrimage with unique alpine ecosystems.

Kumaon boasts over 90 SNS, many protected under local ‘van panchayats,’ including Dhwaj (Pithoragarh), Jageshwar temple forest (Almora), and groves near Golu Devta temples. Thal Kedar (Pithoragarh), Uttarakhand’s first biodiversity heritage site, also features over 200 medicinal plant species.

Despite their profound value, these sites face growing pressures from rapid tourism, encroachment, grazing, fuelwood collection, and declining traditional beliefs. Sacred groves near hubs like Tapkeshwar and Sahastradhara already show ecological stress, underscoring urgent protective measures.

To safeguard this heritage, the study recommends integrating SNS into forest management and conservation plans. It emphasises empowering local communities, particularly women and youth, through participatory management, combining traditional reverence with modern tools. Funded by JICA, this initiative underscores the deep connection between Uttarakhand’s ecology, culture, and spiritual identity.

Of the 161 sites documented, 83 are sacred forests, 62 sacred groves, 12 alpine meadows, and four are revered high-altitude water bodies—Nandi Kund, Satopnath Taal, Shri Hemkund Sahib, and Kak Bhusandi Taal.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

In cold-chain (temperature-controlled supply chain) monitoring, the chip can ensure vaccine and perishable supply chain integrity across pharma and food logistic.

Researchers at IIT Hyderabad have developed an indigenous, IoT-enabled system-on-chip (SoC) that seamlessly integrates 4G, 5G, and satellite communications into a single platform, paving the way for “transformative applications” across sectors.

A system on a chip (SoC) is an integrated circuit that combines most or all key components of a computer or electronic system onto a single microchip.

Compact, low-power, and low-cost, the chip extends connectivity to virtually any corner of the Earth—reliably and for years without a battery replacement, said Kiran Kuchi, professor at IITH.

Researchers at IIT Hyderabad have developed an indigenous, IoT-enabled system-on-chip (SoC) that seamlessly integrates 4G, 5G, and satellite communications into a single platform, paving the way for “transformative applications” across sectors.

A system on a chip (SoC) is an integrated circuit that combines most or all key components of a computer or electronic system onto a single microchip.

Compact, low-power, and low-cost, the chip extends connectivity to virtually any corner of the Earth—reliably and for years without a battery replacement, said Kiran Kuchi, professor at IITH.

“While conventional 6G is often imagined as ultra-high-speed networks for immersive applications, this chip represents a special class of 6G technologies: low-power, narrowband, sensor-driven connectivity,” he told PTI on Wednesday.

Such technologies will be fundamental to enabling the “Internet of Everything” and complement high-speed 6G by ensuring billions of devices—sensors, meters, trackers, wearables—can connect intelligently and sustainably, he said.

Observing that the chip has “transformative applications across sectors”, he said wearables and animal tags equipped with the chip can monitor health indicators, delivering early alerts and improving both human wellness and livestock management.

With built-in GPS, assets, perishable goods, school bags, or even children can be tracked affordably and safely, he said.

In cold-chain (temperature-controlled supply chain) monitoring, the chip can ensure vaccine and perishable supply chain integrity across pharma and food logistics, he said.

Water distribution networks can be monitored in real-time, detecting leaks early and reducing wastage, he said.

Talking about the chip’s defence and strategic applications, Kuchi said, with satellite capability, mobile assets can be tracked over vast distances, independent of cell tower coverage which is critical for defence and national security.

He said the chip has already been tested and qualified for essential standards compliance, ensuring interoperability and reliability across diverse networks.

With conformance validated, the chip is now ready to be introduced into operator networks, paving the way for large-scale commercial rollout, he said.

“This success is the result of India’s fabless semiconductor model: the chip is designed in India, fabricated abroad, but tested, packaged, and productized within the country,” Kuchi said.

Crucially, intellectual property ownership rests in India, securing long-term strategic independence, he said.

As the country’s semiconductor fabrication capabilities expand under the India Semiconductor Mission, future production of such chips will also be localized domestically, he said.

Saying that the chip represents a vision of an “inclusive 6G”, he said, by enabling ultra-low-power, sensor-based communications, it complements high-speed 6G networks and makes massive-scale connectivity feasible, affordable, and sustainable.

The wealth of data generated by billions of devices (using the chip) can drive smarter governance, improve citizen services, and strengthen India’s digital foundations in health, education, agriculture, and security.

This aligns perfectly with the goals of Viksit Bharat 2047: a technologically sovereign, self-reliant India that leads in both advanced innovation and citizen-centric deployment, he said.

“Importantly, central and state agencies are encouraged to leverage this technology early and adopt it for the public good, accelerating its impact across governance and citizen services,” he added.

Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by The Telegraph Online staff and has been published from a syndicated feed.

source/content: telegraphindia.com (headline edited)

Calling it a “strategic initiative,” the Army said the step highlights its ongoing efforts to enhance capability and ensure operational readiness in challenging Himalayan terrain.

 In an important development aimed at bringing logistical efficiency to its formations in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), including the high-altitude regions critical to India’s national security, the first exclusive freight train successfully touched Anantnag.

The Army on Monday said, “Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) witnessed a historic milestone with the successful run of Freight Train, the first exclusive freight train of the Indian Army, from BD Bari to Anantnag on 12-13 September.”

The train carried 753 metric tonnes of Advance Winter Stocking (AWS) loads for Indian Army units and formations in J&K, marking a decisive turning point in the Army’s AWS modus operandi.

Calling the development a “strategic initiative,” the Army said this step “underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing capability development efforts to ensure operational preparedness in challenging Himalayan terrain.”

What French military strategist Napoleon Bonaparte expounded long back holds true even today: “an army marches on its stomach,” highlighting the significance of food and supplies, which affects morale and operational effectiveness. Some areas in winters get cut off from the nearest road, restricting all kinds of movement.

Jammu and Kashmir have a significant presence of the military (Army, Air Force & limited elements of Navy), Rashtriya Rifles (RR) Units, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and other security agencies deployed in Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorism duties, in addition to static deployments along the Line of Control with Pakistan.

The beginning of the freight train, the Army said, is “a unique demonstration of dual-use logistics and military-civil fusion. The return rake of the Freight Train will transport Kashmiri apples to markets in the rest of India. This step not only strengthens the Army’s winter preparedness but also provides direct benefits to local communities.”

Farmers, who in the past suffered heavy losses due to road blockages caused by landslides and floods, will now be able to transport their produce seamlessly, ensuring both economic relief and livelihood security, the Army said.

The initiative reflects the Army’s role in nation-building, extending beyond its core mission of defence to contribute tangibly to the socio-economic development of Kashmir.

By harnessing rail infrastructure for both military and civilian purposes, the Indian Army has taken a major stride in strengthening resilience, connectivity, and prosperity in the region. The move has potential ripple effects, including preserving military assets, reducing costs, and boosting development.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

Under the initiative, nearly 400 professionals have been trained, comprising investigators, ethics committee members and other resources as per global Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards.

Roche Pharma on Saturday (September 13, 2025) said it has partnered with ten government hospitals to strengthen clinical trial capabilities in India.

Under the initiative, nearly 400 professionals have been trained, comprising investigators, ethics committee members and other resources as per global Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards.

“By equipping leading government hospitals with global-standard clinical trial capabilities, we are helping to bring innovations faster to India. This is a crucial step toward building equitable healthcare and shaping treatments that are relevant for India,” said Sivabalan Sivanesan, Country Medical Director, Roche Pharma India.

The Advanced Inclusive Research (AIR) Site Alliance is Roche’s flagship global initiative designed to expand access to clinical trials for underrepresented populations.

Already implemented in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and Africa, the AIR Site Alliance is now active in India.

India accounts for 17% of the world’s population and 20% of the global disease burden, yet fewer than 4% of global clinical trials are conducted in the country.

The Initiative aligns with CDSCO priorities to boost participation of government sites in Phase 3 and 4 trials.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

It was euphoria for two boxers — Jaismine Lamboria and Meenakshi Hooda — and their families on Sunday.

A dream that had encountered multiple challenges over the years had finally come to fruition. The Haryana boxers won the biggest bouts of their careers and are set to return to the country as world champions. The two shone brightest in the just-concluded World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, helping India capture two gold medals. Nupur Sheoran and Pooja Rani clinched silver and bronze, respectively.

In the wee hours on Sunday, Jaismine displayed her ability to course-correct on the fly and come out on the winning side at the M&S Bank Arena, where pro heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk was also among attendees. The Bhiwani girl, who’s related to former great Captain Hawa Singh, outsmarted Julia Szeremeta of Poland in the women’s 57kg final. When the referee raised her hand, signalling her historic feat, the 24-year-old was visibly emotional.

“It was a different form of happiness. I won’t be able to express it properly, but it was certainly a joyous moment. Then I ran towards the coaches and told them, ‘yes, I have managed to return with a gold for India’,” Jaismine later reflected.

Jaismine has been a different athlete following her Paris Games heartbreak. She was the showstopper during the national championships in Greater Noida earlier this year and had also shown her high aptitude during the World Cup in Astana. Jaismine said her decision to train at the Army Sports Institute (ASI) has renewed her energy.

“Soon after the Olympics, I went to the ASI to train under coaches like Chhote Lal Yadav (former coach of MC Mary Kom). The coaches devised a plan for me on how to improve my game, what are the things that I need to change, strength-wise, things related to my physical ability. I was working on those for seven-eight months and it was quite productive.”

“I learnt to deal with different styles of games, based on my opponents’ game. That added to my confidence and I was also able to increase my speed. The ASI impact reflected during the national camp as well. The coaches (at camp) continued to work on those aspects of my game.”

Glimpses of her talent was visible for everyone to gauge in the past but Jaismine had struggled to cope with the rigours of the sport at the highest level prior to the 2024 Paris Games. That’s when she she hit the refresh button and looked ahead with healthy dose of determination.

“After the Olympics, my goal was, whatever the competitions will come, whatever had happened in the past…two World Championships slipped away, Asian Games slipped away. In the CWG, I had to be satisfied with just a bronze medal. Mentally, physically, I just wanted to keep my focus and go to a higher level. Gradually, that effort reflected in the nationals, World Cup and this. Deep inside, I had those setbacks in my mind because I had even regretted the misses later. Be it aggression or other skills, whatever was possible, I worked on my game for the last one year or so and even now, it doesn’t make sense to stop now. I want to improve even further. And I’ll do it.”

Throughout the Liverpool campaign, Jaismine had operated like a seasoned star, getting the better of rivals with different styles. She has now taken some mental notes on things that could make her a bigger force.

“What I observed during the championships was that if I can improve on connecting my punches, then it could get even better. I will obviously work on my strength as well and also want to become sharper in regards to my skills. I shall keep adding in the training sessions ahead.”

Jaismine’s story would be a distant dream if not for her uncles, who initiated her to the sport. Jaismine’s late grandfather, a former wrestler, was against the idea of women getting into sports like wrestling and boxing but her uncles — Sandeep and Parvinder — had convinced him to allow her to wear the gloves. She’s just grateful to her family for giving her the push.

“They were proud and emotional at the same time, my uncle or my mom and dad. I’m happy that I could make the country proud and at the same time, make my mom and dad and my coach proud.”

Meenakshi’s fairytale run

While Jaismine’s uncles were supportive, it was just the opposite for Meenakshi, whose uncle initially didn’t approve of her boxing. Daughter of an auto driver from Rurki, Rohtak, Meenakshi has authored a fairytale for herself. In the gold-medal match, Meenakshi got the better of Nazym Kyzaibay, bronze medal winner during the 2024 Paris Games. The victory is not just Meenakshi’s, but also her parents’ and her coaches who had given her wings to fly.

Riding an auto, her father, Srikrishan Hooda, barely could make ends meet when she was still learning the basics of the sport. All the tears and sacrifices have now paid off and they were naturally elated. “She was so dedicated and used to train twice a day and her father had also sacrificed a lot. Even when was not well, she would not miss her training,” Sunita, Meenakshi’s mother, told this daily.

“People used to tell us not to let her box. But she was determined and used to tell her father that women are not any less than men and we’ll show them I can do it.”

With that dogged determination and with the support of coach Vijay Hooda, she began her journey a decade or so ago. And she has never looked back since. Having made history in Liverpool, she is now in a good place to go even higher.

BFI chief lauds champs

Boxing Federation of India president Ajay Singh welcomed the women pugilists’ impressive showing during the campaign. “The performances in Liverpool, where our women boxers defeated some of the world’s best, underline that Indian boxing is on a decisive upward curve. In recent months, we have implemented athlete-first policies, and these results validate that approach. This success gives us the confidence to push ahead with further reforms and new initiatives to empower our athletes. These women boxers are our future Olympic champions,” he was quoted as saying in a release.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)