6, Jun 2026
Maharashtra Tops India in Female-to-Male Ratio, Surpasses National Average
Mumbai, June 6 (BNP): Maharashtra has emerged as the state with the highest female-to-male ratio in the country, surpassing the national average and marking a significant achievement in gender demographics, according to recent government data.
Representational image
The improved sex ratio is being viewed as a positive indicator of social development and reflects the impact of sustained efforts to promote gender equality, female education, healthcare access, and women’s welfare initiatives. Experts believe the trend demonstrates growing awareness regarding the value of the girl child and the effectiveness of policies aimed at curbing gender discrimination.
Officials have attributed the achievement to various state and central government programmes focused on maternal and child health, women’s empowerment, and awareness campaigns against gender-biased practices. Improved healthcare infrastructure and better access to institutional deliveries have also contributed to the favorable demographic shift.
Demographers note that a balanced sex ratio is a crucial indicator of social progress and inclusive development. A healthier gender balance can positively influence workforce participation, education outcomes, and long-term economic growth.
The latest figures place Maharashtra ahead of the national average, highlighting the state’s progress in addressing gender disparities. Policymakers and social experts have welcomed the development while emphasizing the need for continued efforts to sustain and further improve gender equality across all sections of society.
The achievement is expected to serve as a model for other states seeking to improve demographic indicators and promote a more equitable social structure.
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- By Neel Achary
6, Jun 2026
FIFA’s Newest Security Threat: Empty Water Bottles
Brussels, 6 June 2026: The Consumer Choice Center condemns FIFA’s decision to ban fans from bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums during the upcoming World Cup in North America.
The policy is as unnecessary as it is absurd. Many matches will be played during peak summer temperatures and, thanks to global broadcasting schedules, not even late enough in the evening to spare supporters from the heat.
Zoltán Kész, Government Affairs Manager at the Consumer Choice Center, stated:
“Fans are already spending thousands to attend the world’s biggest sporting event, yet FIFA continues to treat them like a security problem rather than paying customers.”
“There are countless examples showing football can safely accommodate reusable bottles. In countries like Spain, where summer temperatures regularly exceed those expected at many World Cup venues, supporters attend matches in extreme heat without being subjected to pointless restrictions on basic hydration.”
Rather than adopting proven best practices from countries experienced in managing large crowds during hot weather, FIFA has once again opted for maximum inconvenience for the very people who make the tournament possible.
Kész concluded:“If FIFA officials genuinely believe an empty reusable water bottle is a major threat while expecting supporters to sit for hours in the summer heat, they’ve clearly lost sight of who the World Cup is supposed to be for. At this rate, fans may want to check whether shoes and belts are next on the prohibited items list.”
6, Jun 2026
Terahertz Biophotonics: Understanding the Path Towards PracticalApplications
Researchers summarize the recent developments and future research directions toward the broader implementationof terahertz biophotonics
Biophotonicsrefers to the development and application of light-based technologies to study biological systems.The application of terahertz (THz) frequency range in biophotonics is considered a promising avenue for advancing biological research. However, several challenges still limit practical adoption, although recent developments show strong potential. In a new study, researchers present a comprehensive review of recent advancements and emerging applications of THz biophotonics, highlighting promising areas and future research directions that can expand its adoption.
Biophotonics is a multidisciplinary field that involves the development and application of light-based technologies to study, monitor, and treat biological systems. The ability to directly image cells and molecules has led to many fundamental discoveries in the past century. More recently, the terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum has attracted growing interest as a promising frontier for advancing biological research.
The THz frequency range is associated with several fundamental biological processes. Although THz radiation is strongly absorbed by water, traditionally viewed as a limitation, this property can enable sensitive characterization of hydration states and water content. Compared to visible light, THz waves can also penetrate certain biological tissues more effectively. However, despite steady advancements, the adoption of THz biophotonicsstill lags behind visible light-based techniques in directly observing cellular and molecular dynamics.This is largely due to several challenges, including relatively low spatial resolution (a consequence of the longer THz wavelengths), high sensitivity to water that complicates measurements, slower imaging speeds, and bulky instrumentation. Fortunately, recent developments suggest strong future potential.
To highlight these advancements, Associate Professor Kazunori Serita from theGraduate School of Information, Production, and Systems, Waseda University, Japan, together withSpecial-Appointment ProfessorMasayoshi Tonouchi from the Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Okayama University, Japan, presented a comprehensive review summarizing current efforts to address limitations and improve the adoption of THz biophotonics. The study was published in the Journal of Physics PhotonicsonMay 28, 2026.
“THz biophotonics is a fascinating research area for next-generation biomedical technologies.Currently, THz biomedical applications are restricted to a few niche domains with many technical limitations.Recent developments in emerging THz technologies have greatly increased the potential for overcoming these technical limitations,” says Serita.
In their review, the researchers first outline how THz radiation interacts with biological processes, highlighting key advantages such as sensitivity to molecular fingerprint spectra and the ability to enable non-invasive, non-destructive, and label-free measurements. They also discuss the strong dielectric dispersion and absorption of water. Next, they trace the historical development of key THz technologies, including THztime-domain spectroscopy, the evolution of THzimaging techniques, and the emergence of THz metamaterial biosensors that can be used to probe complex and small biological samples.
A major focus was on fields that show strong potential for early application. For example, THz imaging is gaining attention in skin cancer diagnosis due to its sensitivity to tissue composition and is progressing toward clinical trials. Wound assessment is another field where THz imaging is being increasingly applied. Margin assessment in breast cancer is also a key area where THz technology has high potential for practical clinical application, offering a pathway to simplify current procedures. The review also highlights applications in drug discovery and pharmaceutical analysis.
Beyond these areas, the review identifies emerging directions such as single-cell THz imaging, molecular-scale THz studies, diagnostics for internal organs (including the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems), and THz-based blood analysis. In addition,it highlights future technologies that can enable THz observation of cells and molecules under physiological conditions, including the recently developed “point-terahertzsource” technology by Serita and colleagues.
“THz measurement technologies can benefit not only medicine, but also a wide range of industries, including drug discovery, food inspection, environmental monitoring, semiconductor evaluation, and biotechnology,” says Serita.
Finally, the researchers presented the main areas for future research, includingidentifying the precise origins of THz contrast in biological samples and improving the understanding of water dynamics to improve reliability.
“Our study provides a roadmap of emerging approaches that could help transform the field of THz biophotonics from proof-of-concept studies to practical biomedical applications,” concludesSerita.
6, Jun 2026
Why World Cup Tickets Cost So Much—and How Pricing Actually Works
Attending a FIFA World Cup match this summer in North America won’t be cheap. Tickets alone can cost hundreds to more than $1,000, and the total price can quickly climb once travel and lodging are factored in.
According to University of Colorado Boulder researcher Övünç Yılmaz, those high prices reflect how markets for major global events work—especially one as large as the World Cup.
“FIFA and many event organizers have traditionally underpriced tickets in the primary market in the name of global reach and fairness,” said Yılmaz, assistant professor of operations at the Leeds School of Business. “That creates excess demand and leaves value on the table, which often gets captured in the resale market.”
Unlike most sporting events, the World Cup operates at a massive scale and across multiple layers of ticket sales. Organizers first sell tickets through a primary market, but those tickets can later be resold, often at much higher prices.
This year, FIFA is also using dynamic pricing for the first time, meaning ticket prices can shift based on demand.
“FIFA already varies prices across games, and this World Cup marks the first time it has introduced dynamic pricing, allowing prices to adjust with demand in real time,” Yılmaz said.
Even with those changes, he noted that the resale market continues to play a major role, especially for the most popular games.
“The resale market is still where much of the real price discovery happens, especially for high-demand games involving teams like the U.S., England or Argentina,” he said.
For many fans, the cost of attending goes far beyond the ticket itself. The tournament spans multiple countries and cities, making travel more complicated and expensive than at past World Cups.
“Arranging flights and hotels with only four to five days between games, without knowing your next destination until the final whistle, is an enormous challenge,” Yılmaz said.
“That is seven cities across two countries in roughly five weeks,” he added, describing the potential travel path for fans following a team deep into the tournament.
As kickoff approaches, ticket prices may continue to shift, especially for later rounds where matchups are still unknown.
His advice for fans: think beyond the ticket price and plan carefully.
“Before anything else, factor in the full picture: Check flights and hotels before even thinking about tickets,” he said.
For group-stage games, waiting to buy tickets may pay off. “Prices have been coming down and may continue to do so, so patience can pay off,” he said.
While prices may be high, the experience itself may still be worth it, he added.
“Even if you do not get the exact matchup you hoped for, it is still the World Cup and will likely be a memorable experience,” Yılmaz said.
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6, Jun 2026
Understanding Congenital Heart Defect Outcomes: Insights from the Heart Institute at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
Finding out your child has a congenital heart defect (CHD) can come with a lot of emotion, fear, and urgent questions about what the future may hold for your family. But it’s important to know that major advances in heart care have transformed the reality of what it’s like to live with many of these conditions.
Today, the vast majority of babies with a congenital heart defect will reach adulthood.
“For complex CHDs, survival is no longer the main benchmark for success,” says Luke M. Wiggins, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “Pediatric cardiac specialty centers have the tools to improve quality of life, promote long-term health, and help kids thrive.”
As a major referral center for the Southern California region, CHLA’s nationally ranked Heart Institute team is well-versed in treating fetal, neonatal, and pediatric patients with even the most challenging heart anatomy.
For families just starting out on their care journey, the Heart Institute team shares what parents should know about congenital heart defect outcomes.
1. No two hearts look the same.
The heart is an incredibly complex organ—which is why the same diagnosis may look completely different from one child to another.
There are more than 35 distinct types of congenital heart defects, and the potential combination of differences is nearly infinite. This is why heart defects often require a personalized treatment approach.
This was true for a young patient named Samuel, whose exceptionally unique heart anatomy required an innovative treatment plan that provided life-saving interventions while allowing him to grow and heal at home before reconstructive surgery.
2. Early detection—and accurate diagnosis—is essential.
While standard fetal imaging, like a 20-week ultrasound, can help to illuminate major structural issues, it’s essential that doctors understand all details of a patient’s anatomy to make the most informed diagnosis. It’s common for families visiting the Heart Institute to be seeking a second opinion after an initial diagnosis at their local hospital.
In the Fetal Cardiac Clinic, renowned specialists in fetal cardiology, congenital heart defects, and prenatal heart care use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including 3D/4D ultrasound and fetal echocardiography, to help provide exceptional diagnostic clarity.
Often before patients are even born, a multidisciplinary care team of fetal cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and interventional cardiologists starts devising a personalized care plan.
Neonatal or pediatric patients may receive imaging in the Catheterization Lab or the Cardiac Imaging Suite, which includes a first-in-the-nation low-field MRI machine that allows unprecedented diagnostic precision.
3. When it comes to complex heart defects, volume matters.
The Heart Institute team conducts an average of more than 14,000 patient visits and 700 cardiothoracic surgeries each year.
Over 50% of neonatal heart surgeries at the hospital are high-risk cases, making CHLA one of the largest complex surgical programs in the country.
“Volume makes specialty centers more effective at understanding risks and complications and optimizing care amidst challenges,” says Dr. Wiggins.
“We have pediatric specialists in every area of cardiac care who are doing open heart surgeries, catheterization procedures, anesthesia, and critical care day in and day out,” he adds. “This is in contrast to specialists at smaller hospitals who may encounter a pediatric patient with complex care needs much more infrequently.”
Additionally, CHLA’s heart team observes a two-surgeon system in the operating room—a rare practice among similar programs.
“This approach allows for a much more fluid management of the many layers of complex congenital operations, which typically results in the operation progressing more quickly,” Dr. Wiggins explains. “For the patient, that means substantially less time under general anesthesia with their heart stopped and on a bypass machine.”
4. Research is the backbone of progress for complex heart care outcomes.
Just a few decades ago, many congenital heart defects were universally fatal. Today, innovations like fetal surgery, minimally invasive catheter-based procedures, and new medical devices have made congenital heart surgeries safer and more effective.
These innovations were made possible through research—and many key treatment breakthroughs and technologies have origins here at CHLA.
35 years ago, Head of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Heart Institute Co-Director Vaughn A. Starnes, MD, developed a new surgical technique to treat a valve abnormality called Ebstein anomaly. The Starnes procedure revolutionized management for critically ill babies with this condition, and a version of the operation is still used worldwide.
Today, the Heart Institute has more than 100 research studies and active clinical trials. Voluntary clinical research helps doctors and scientists learn more about current and investigational treatments and technologies—often before they are widely available—with a focus on solutions specially-designed for the smallest patients.
In 2022, Heart Institute physician-researchers spearheaded the clinical trial that led to FDA approval for a first-of-its-kind Minima Stent, and in 2024, Dr. Wiggins and his team launched a trial for a novel, size-adjustable prosthetic pulmonary valve. Both solutions are designed to be expanded as the child grows, without the need for multiple invasive replacement surgeries.
Most recently, CHLA’s interventional cardiologists started using a miniaturized imaging device that enables them to conduct patent ductus arteriosis (PDA) closures, a repair for a common heart defect in preemies, from right within the baby’s isolette.
5. For complex conditions, comprehensive heart care should continue through childhood.
Some heart defects may resolve on their own or need just one surgery to restore functional heart anatomy, and children will go on to live life without complications. For children with more complex anatomy, comprehensive multidisciplinary care is required as they grow up.
In children with single ventricle disease who have undergone the Fontan procedure—the final stage of a three-part surgical reconstruction—multiple organ systems are affected. Families may receive coordinated care from specialists in Cardiology, Hepatology, Nephrology, Pulmonology, Nutrition, Psychology, nursing, and Social Work.
Home monitoring is also an essential aspect of long-term care for many children—helping them stay safe outside the hospital while ensuring peace of mind for families and providing important data to their care teams.
6. You’re not alone.
It can feel impossible to wrap your head around a tough diagnosis. But working with a trusted team of specialists means your family will have guidance and support every step of the way.
“Early conversations with families are often focused on complexity and survival,” Dr. Wiggins says. “Later, they go home and return to everyday life, and as their surgeon, I might not see the kids again until months or even years later.
Seeing their progress—growing, developing personalities, building relationships—it’s all incredibly rewarding. It’s a powerful reminder of why this work matters.”
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6, Jun 2026
Renault Duster Turbo TCe 100 Achieves ARAI- Certified Fuel Efficiency of 19.41 Km/l
Chandigarh, June 06: Renault India, the wholly owned subsidiary of the French automaker Renault Group, announced the ARAI-certified fuel efficiency for the new Duster Turbo TCe 100. Duster Turbo TCe 100 achieves an impressive 19.41 km/l, offering an ideal balance of performance and efficiency for everyday driving.
Speaking on the development, Dr. V. Vikraman, Chief of Renault Engineering, Renault Group India, said, “The ARAI-certified fuel efficiency reflects Renault’s focus on practical engineering and customer value. The Turbo TCe 100 engine uses turbocharging and efficient combustion to deliver responsive performance with strong fuel economy. With the 6‑speed manual transmission, the powertrain provides a balanced and efficient driving experience.”
The New Renault Duster TCe 100 is built on all‑new RGMP platform, with its engine and powertrain comprehensively engineered and tuned to perfectly align with this advanced architecture. The unit is exclusive to the Duster, calibrated specifically to complement the platform’s dynamics. The Duster Turbo TCe 100 is equipped with six speed transmission which makes it efficient and responsive. The petrol engine produces 100 PS of power and 160 Nm of torque. The turbocharged powertrain is engineered to ensure responsive performance, smooth drivability and enhanced fuel economy across diverse driving conditions.
6, Jun 2026
World Skill Centre and World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar Sign Strategic MoU to Strengthen Global Skill-Trade Linkages
Bhubaneswar, June 6: In a significant step towards aligning skill development with global trade opportunities, the World Skill Centre (WSC), Bhubaneswar and the World Trade Centre (WTC), Bhubaneswar today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the World Skill Centre campus.
The MoU was formalised during a ceremonial event held at the 15th Floor Lecture Hall of the World Skill Centre, in the presence of senior leadership, dignitaries, and industry representatives. The programme included addresses by institutional leaders followed by the formal exchange and signing of the MoU, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two institutions.
The collaboration aims to create a strong convergence between skill development and global trade ecosystems by integrating international industry linkages into training programmes and enhancing global employability of skilled youth. This partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in positioning Odisha as a hub for globally competitive talent.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. A. Rajyalaxmi, Regional Director, World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar, highlighted the importance of skilled human capital in today’s interconnected global economy. She emphasised that the collaboration would facilitate international exposure, industry engagement, and access to global markets for emerging talent.
The World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar, an accredited member of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), is committed to promoting international trade, investment, and business linkages. Through its global network, it enables enterprises and institutions to connect with international markets and opportunities.
The World Skill Centre, established under the Government of Odisha, is recognised as one of India’s leading institutions in advanced skill development. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a strong focus on industry-aligned training, WSC continues to bridge the gap between industry requirements and workforce capabilities.
Under the scope of this MoU, both institutions will collaborate on initiatives such as facilitating international internships and apprenticeships, developing export-oriented skill modules, enabling joint certification programmes, and promoting global placement opportunities. The partnership will also support knowledge-sharing platforms, industry interactions, and exposure to international trade ecosystems.
6, Jun 2026
RBI Preparing for Introduction of Plastic Currency Notes in India
New Delhi, June 6 (BNP): In a move aimed at modernizing the country’s currency system, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is reportedly preparing to introduce polymer-based plastic currency notes that are expected to be more durable, secure, and environmentally efficient than conventional paper notes.
According to reports, the proposed plastic banknotes will be waterproof, resistant to wear and tear, and capable of withstanding prolonged circulation. Unlike traditional paper currency, polymer notes are less likely to be damaged by moisture, dirt, or repeated handling, significantly extending their lifespan.
The RBI is also exploring advanced security features that can be incorporated into polymer notes to curb counterfeiting and enhance public confidence in the currency system. Several countries, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Singapore, have successfully adopted polymer banknotes due to their durability and improved security standards.
Officials believe the transition could reduce printing and replacement costs in the long run while improving the overall quality of currency in circulation. The move is part of the central bank’s broader efforts to strengthen currency management and embrace modern banking innovations.
While the RBI has not yet announced an official launch date, reports suggest that groundwork and feasibility assessments are underway. Further details regarding denominations, design specifications, and rollout plans are expected in the coming months.
If implemented, the introduction of polymer currency notes would mark a significant milestone in India’s evolving financial and monetary landscape.
6, Jun 2026
Supreme Court Rules Overqualified Candidates Can Be Declared Ineligible for Lower-Level Jobs
New Delhi, June 6 (BNP): In a significant ruling concerning public employment, the Supreme Court has observed that candidates possessing qualifications higher than those prescribed for a particular post may be declared ineligible if recruitment rules specifically restrict eligibility to a defined educational standard.
The apex court noted that employers and recruiting agencies have the authority to prescribe qualifications suitable for a particular position and that such criteria must be respected to maintain the integrity of the recruitment process. The Court emphasized that the objective of setting specific educational requirements is to ensure that candidates are appropriately matched to the responsibilities and nature of the job.
The judgment came while hearing a case related to the eligibility of highly qualified candidates applying for posts meant for individuals with lower educational qualifications. The Court observed that permitting overqualified candidates to compete for such positions could defeat the purpose of the recruitment policy and may adversely affect opportunities for candidates who meet the prescribed criteria.
Legal experts believe the ruling will have far-reaching implications for government recruitment processes across the country, particularly in cases where eligibility conditions clearly define minimum as well as maximum educational qualifications.
The decision is expected to provide clarity to recruiting authorities and may influence future recruitment policies aimed at ensuring fairness and suitability in public employment.
6, Jun 2026
World Environment Day 2026: Building cities that breathe
By:- Shilpin Tater, Founder & Managing Director, Superb Realty
Every year, World Environment Day reminds us of a simple truth: the future of our planet will be shaped not by grand declarations alone, but by the everyday choices we make as businesses, communities, and individuals.
For decades, urban development across the world has been driven by the pursuit of growth. Cities expanded, skylines rose higher and infrastructure transformed the way we live and work. Yet, alongside this growth emerged new environmental challenges such as rising temperatures, deteriorating air quality, increasing pressure on natural resources and the growing disconnect between people and nature.
Today, the question before us is no longer whether cities will grow. The question is how they will grow.
As real estate development remains always at the core of development of cities, the philosophy of developers towards construction, designing and execution, impact the environment footprint.
The developers’ fraternity needs to believe that development and sustainability are not opposing forces. In fact, the future belongs to projects that successfully balance economic progress with environmental responsibility. The built environment must become part of the solution to climate and urban challenges rather than contribute to them.
For instance, one of the most pressing concerns facing metropolitan cities like Mumbai is air quality. For millions of urban residents, clean air is no longer something taken for granted. Air pollution has evolved from a seasonal concern into a year-round challenge that impacts productivity, health and overall quality of life. As developers, we cannot treat this issue as someone else’s responsibility. Buildings of the future must actively contribute to healthier environments.
This philosophy-driven approach to designing commercial or residential spaces will definitely make them sustainable. Not only for residential spaces, but environment conscious designs are at the core of modern workplaces too. They are no longer just locations where people work, but they are ecosystems that influence physical well-being, mental health, collaboration and creativity. Architecture must therefore go beyond aesthetics and functionality. It must create environments that breathe, adapt and support human wellness.
There is a need to embrace a design philosophy built around four interconnected pillars: design, sustainability, technology, and wellness. We believe the most successful buildings of the future will be those that integrate these elements seamlessly rather than treating sustainability as an add-on feature.
Thoughtful architecture begins with understanding natural light, airflow and the relationship between people and spaces. Buildings that maximize daylight penetration encourage natural interaction and provide access to open areas can significantly improve the quality of urban life. Green spaces, terrace lounges, landscaped zones and biophilic design elements are not luxuries; they are essential ingredients for healthier cities.
Technology, too, has a vital role to play. Intelligent building systems now enable us to monitor and optimize energy consumption, indoor environmental conditions and operational efficiency in real time. Through advancements in environmental monitoring and AI-driven air quality solutions, buildings can become active participants in creating healthier indoor environments. Such innovations demonstrate how technology can support sustainability while enhancing user experience.
However, sustainability is about much more than energy efficiency. It involves responsible resource management at every stage of development. Rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, renewable energy integration, efficient construction, construction waste recycling, efficient lighting systems and overall sustainable construction practices are no longer optional considerations. They are fundamental responsibilities.
As developers, we must also think beyond individual projects and consider our broader impact on the urban ecosystem. The real estate sector occupies a unique position because every building we create shapes communities for decades. The decisions we make today will influence environmental outcomes for future generations.
On this World Environment Day, I believe the industry has an opportunity to redefine success. Success should not be measured solely by square footage delivered or financial returns generated. It should also be measured by the quality of life created, the environmental footprint reduced and the positive legacy left behind.
The cities of tomorrow must be intelligent, resilient and sustainable. They must offer spaces where innovation co-exists with nature, where productivity is balanced with wellness and where progress strengthens rather than compromises environmental stewardship.
As developers, we should be committed to creating developments that are future-ready, environmentally conscious and deeply human-centric. Because the most valuable spaces are not simply those that stand tall. They are the ones that help people and the planet thrive together.
