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The second Yunnan Lancang Bird-Watching Festival, held in the Lancang Lahu Autonomous County of Yunnan Province, concluded with remarkable findings. Over a span of 60 hours, participants documented an impressive 273 bird species, setting a new record for the region. Among these, seven species were newly recorded in the area, including the spot-winged starling, which also marked a new record for Pu’er City, the administrative jurisdiction of Lancang. The event, which drew bird enthusiasts and researchers alike, highlighted the rich biodiversity of Yunnan Province, known for its unique ecosystems and avian diversity. The discovery of these new species underscores the importance of conservation efforts in the region, as well as the potential for further scientific exploration. The festival not only celebrated the beauty of bird-watching but also contributed valuable data to the field of ornithology, reinforcing Yunnan’s status as a global hotspot for bird species.

Sudan’s community kitchens, known as takaaya, have been a cornerstone of survival for millions amid the ongoing conflict that began in April 2023. However, a recent report by Islamic Relief warns that these vital institutions are on the brink of collapse due to international neglect, supply shortages, and volunteer exhaustion. The charity’s extensive research reveals that 83% of Sudanese families lack sufficient food, with 52% of surveyed households having food supplies lasting less than a week. These kitchens, which operate alongside Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs), have been a beacon of hope and solidarity, providing not just meals but also shelter, health facilities, and support for victims of sexual violence. The ERRs, once supported by US funding under President Biden, have seen their resources drastically reduced since President Trump cut USAID support, leaving them struggling to maintain operations. Volunteers like Mazen Osman ibn Ibrahim and Manal Ahmed Ibrahim emphasize the cultural and religious significance of takaaya, rooted in Sudanese traditions of mutual aid and Islamic principles of charity. Despite their resilience, many kitchens have downsized from serving multiple meals a day to just one, with some shutting down entirely. Islamic Relief has called for urgent international aid to support these local initiatives, warning that their collapse would have catastrophic consequences for a population already facing famine and starvation.

A tragic incident unfolded in Ulsan, South Korea, when a 60-meter (196-foot) tower at a decommissioned thermal power plant collapsed during demolition work, resulting in at least one fatality and leaving six individuals trapped under the debris. The collapse occurred on Thursday afternoon, prompting an immediate and extensive rescue operation.

Rescuers managed to locate one of the trapped individuals, though fears of their demise loom large as extraction efforts have been hindered by unstable rubble. Two other workers were rescued shortly after the collapse and are reported to have escaped life-threatening injuries. However, another worker, rescued later, succumbed to injuries and was pronounced dead at a hospital early Friday, according to Kim Jeong-shik, an official with Ulsan’s fire department.

The search for the remaining trapped individuals was temporarily suspended on Friday morning due to safety concerns regarding the unstable debris. Rescue operations are set to resume once stabilization measures are completed. Kim highlighted the deployment of advanced detection equipment, including thermal cameras and endoscopes, alongside rescue dogs to aid in the search efforts.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has directed officials to mobilize all available resources, including over 340 rescue workers and approximately 90 vehicles and equipment, to expedite the rescue mission while ensuring the safety of the rescue personnel.

The thermal power plant, which had been operational for 40 years, was decommissioned in 2021. Officials noted that the boiler tower, one of three at the site, had been weakened during preparations for its demolition, contributing to the catastrophic collapse.

The Hindu India Education Expo 2025, a highly anticipated event, is poised to empower students in the UAE by providing a comprehensive platform for academic and career guidance. Scheduled for November 2025, the expo will feature over 40 prestigious Indian universities, acclaimed career mentors, and financial experts, offering students and parents invaluable insights into higher education opportunities. The event will commence in Abu Dhabi on November 12 at the India Social & Cultural Centre, followed by sessions in Ras Al Khaimah on November 14 at the Indian Association. Dubai will host the expo across two venues: The New Indian Model School on November 15 for school-level participants, and Hotel Crowne Plaza, Deira on November 16 for a broader audience. A standout feature of the expo is the complimentary access to The Hindu STEP (Standardized Test of English Proficiency) Assessment for registered students, a globally recognized tool to enhance English communication skills. Additionally, schools registering in bulk will benefit from exclusive perks, including free STEP Teacher Training for 15 teachers per institution, aimed at improving classroom communication and global teaching standards. The Hindu STEP Program, known for its interactive learning modules and internationally accredited certifications, seeks to cultivate confident and globally competent learners. The expo also promises direct interactions with top Indian universities, expert guidance, and access to cutting-edge learning tools, making it a pivotal event for students aspiring to pursue quality education in India. The event is proudly sponsored by Rajalakshmi Institute of Technology, with participation from other esteemed institutions such as Khaja Bandanawaz University, Chettinad Sarvalokaa Education International School, and Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, among others. Students and schools can register online via https://newsth.live/IIEF2025PA.