Japan has approved Norlevo, its first OTC emergency contraceptive, eliminating the need for a doctor’s prescription. No age or parental consent is required, but it must be taken in a pharmacist’s presence. This follows years of advocacy and trials, aligning Japan with 90+ countries offering non-prescription morning-after pills.
Actor Ajmal Amir denied sexual misconduct claims, stating AI was used to fabricate audio and screenshots. In a video, he assured fans he’s handling the issue personally and will now manage his own social media. Thanking supporters, Ajmal confirmed he’s currently in Dubai and remains committed to defending his reputation and career.
This Diwali, consider buying an air fryer for healthier meals. Options under ₹5000 include Usha iChef (₹4199), Nutricook (₹4599), Milton Rapid (₹4299), Inalsa (₹4589), and Philips (₹4399). These air fryers offer various features like multi-function modes, digital touch panels, and strong heating power for convenient, oil-free cooking.
Neeraja Kona’s movie ‘Telusu Kada’, starring Sidhu Jonnalagadda, is winning audience appreciation. The makers recently announced the film’s 3-day collections, which have surpassed ₹14.1 crore. Featuring Raashi Khanna and Srinidhi Shetty as the leading ladies, the movie’s music is composed by Thaman, adding to its popularity and success at the box office.
A viral video shows a middle-aged man molesting a minor girl on a near-empty train. When confronted by the filmer, the man could not explain his actions, asking to speak “in a corner.” The disturbing incident has sparked public outrage, with calls for severe punishment. No arrest has been made yet.
ISRO, IN-SPACe, and ASI are holding the grand finale of the Model Rocketry/CANSAT India Student Competition from Oct 27–30 in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh. Featuring 77 teams, the event promotes rocketry and STEM skills. Highlights include rocket launches, an employment fair, and an immersive extraterrestrial habitat experience for participating students.
World Osteoporosis Day, observed on October 20, aims to raise awareness about osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones that are more prone to fractures. The day highlights the importance of early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of the disease. It encourages individuals to adopt a healthy lifestyle to maintain strong bones.
Chirag Paswan praised Bihar CM Nitish Kumar as a “guardian” and stressed his role as a unifying force within the NDA. He also expressed admiration for PM Modi, calling him a father figure. Paswan dismissed any issues within the NDA and took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, questioning his absence and actions.
YSRCP chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy took to X to question the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh, highlighting unfulfilled promises. He asked why unemployed youth haven’t received ₹3,000 monthly, pensions haven’t begun at age 50, and why farmers haven’t received the promised ₹20,000 annually in addition to PM-Kisan benefits.
Parvez Rasool, Jammu and Kashmir’s first international cricketer, announced his retirement after a 17-year career. He played 95 first-class, 164 List-A, and 71 T20 matches. A former India and IPL player, Rasool expressed pride in elevating J&K cricket. Despite recent setbacks, he remained dedicated to nurturing young talent in the valley.
Riyaz, a rowdy sheeter in Telangana police custody, was shot dead on October 20 while trying to flee Nizamabad government hospital. He attempted to seize an officer’s weapon and fired at police. Riyaz had previously fatally stabbed constable E Pramod and had been on the run for two days before his capture.
Indian stock benchmarks extended gains for the fourth session, with the BSE Sensex rising by 411.18 points to 84,363.37 (+0.49%) and Nifty50 up 133.30 points at 25,843.15 (+0.52%). Key gainers included Reliance Industries and Bajaj Finserv, while ICICI Bank and M&M saw losses. Nifty PSU Bank rose 2.87%.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that the first phase of JEE Main 2026 will be held from January 21, and the second phase from April 1. However, dates for online applications are yet to be released. NTA stated that applications for the second phase will begin in the last week of January 2026.
Amaal Malik’s aunt, Roshan Gary, recently called Bigg Boss 19 contestant Farrhana Bhatt a “terrorist” in a viral video, following a heated argument between them on the show. The remark sparked outrage online, with critics condemning her choice of words and demanding an apology, though Amaal Malik’s family has yet to respond.
Hyderabad faced major disruptions on October 18 due to a statewide bandh against the Telangana High Court’s stay on 42% BC quota in local body polls. Public transport halted, with cabs charging double, leaving travelers stranded. Gold shops and businesses also suffered, while protests led to vandalism and forced shutdowns in several areas.