Indian-origin professor Dr. Joyeeta Gupta has been awarded the prestigious Dutch Spinoza Prize for her exceptional work in the field of climate change. Gupta, a professor of environment and development in the global south, received the 1.5 million euros award during a ceremony in The Hague organized by the Dutch Research Council (NWO). The Spinoza Prize, often referred to as the 'Dutch Nobel,' recognizes scholars of international acclaim. Gupta's pioneering contributions to creating a just and sustainable world earned her this esteemed honor, making her a significant figure in the fight against climate change.

The flash flood in Sikkim has claimed 21 lives till now, with 118 people still reported missing. Bodies of 7 missing army personnel have been recovered while 15 are still missing, informed CM Tamang. Army and NDRF teams are conducting rescue operations in the Teesta River basin and northern Bengal to find those swept away. Several towns, including Dikchu, Singtam, and Rangpo, are flooded. Around 3,000 tourists are stranded in various parts of Sikkim. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority has closed all schools, colleges, and universities until 15 October due to inclement weather. Rescue efforts continue amid challenging conditions in the affected regions. Over 2,000 people have been rescued so far.

The Dtribals Foundation, a U.S.-based nonprofit, organized the inaugural Swadeshi Mela Indian American Trade Fair in Naperville, Chicago, promoting Indian products and culture. Over 30 vendors displayed products from various Indian states, accompanied by cultural performances and exhibitions. Consul General of the India Embassy, Somnath Ghosh, lauded the event's national significance. Unique exhibitions, including handicrafts, handloom products, and millet-based items, were showcased. The event aimed to bridge Indian and American communities, supporting small-scale businesses and women-owned enterprises. The next Swadeshi Mela is scheduled for September 13-15, 2024.

Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has been granted a divorce by a Delhi Court, citing 'cruelty' and 'mental agony' inflicted by his estranged wife Aesha Mukerji. The court ruled in Dhawan's favor, stating that his wife caused 'mental agony' by separating him from their son for years. Despite not contesting the allegations, no order was given regarding permanent custody of their child. Dhawan was granted the right to visit his son, including overnight stays, and interact with him over video calls. Although not selected for India's World Cup 2023 squad, Dhawan continues to play in franchise-based cricket for Punjab Kings, leading the team in IPL 2023.

Adding to the global tension around the Russia-Ukraine war, President Vladimir Putin announced Russia successfully tested its nuclear-powered, nuclear-capable Burevestnik cruise missile with a potential range of thousands of miles. He also said work on the Sarmat ICBM system nears completion, highlighting new nuclear capabilities. Though noting no one in their "right mind" would attack nuclear Russia, Putin didn't rule out resuming nuclear weapons tests for the first time since 1990, before the USSR collapsed. Analysts warn nuclear testing resumption by Russia or the US would be destabilizing amid soaring tensions. 

Jaswant Singh Chail, a British Sikh intruder armed with a crossbow, who pleaded guilty to plotting to kill Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle on Christmas Day 2021, has been sentenced to nine years in a UK court. Chail, suffering from mental health issues, aimed to avenge the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar. The judge ruled he must stay at Broadmoor Hospital until deemed fit for custody, citing Chail's "homicidal thoughts" as a threat. Chail's threat was influenced by an AI chatbot and his interest in 'Star Wars'. The Queen was unharmed during the incident.

Bollywood actress Shraddha Kapoor has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Mahadev money-laundering case, joining a list of actors involved in promoting the app. Huma Qureshi, Hina Khan, and comedian Kapil Sharma were also summoned. Actor Ranbir Kapoor, previously summoned, sought a two-week delay to understand the source of funds he received for promoting the app. Around 100 people, including celebrities, are under ED's scrutiny for their involvement in the case, related to illegal betting on games through the Mahadev Book app, allegedly run by Dubai-based individuals. The app is being investigated for large-scale hawala operations and money laundering.

Indian cricketer Shubman Gill has tested positive for dengue, casting doubt on his availability for the World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday, October 8. The in-form opener missed a net session and is undergoing treatment, with the team monitoring his progress. A decision on his participation will be made after further tests on Friday. If Gill is unable to play, India must choose between Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul to partner captain Rohit Sharma. Gill's absence poses a setback, given his remarkable recent performances, including a double ton against New Zealand earlier this year and leading run-scorer titles in the IPL and Asia Cup. 

On Day 13 of the Asian Games 2023, India started the day by securing a bronze in archery with Ankita Bhakat, Bhajan Kaur, and Simranjeet Kaur defeating Vietnam 6-2. The women's kabaddi team dominated Nepal, winning 61-17, securing a spot in the finals, their highest score in the Games. Bajrang Punia won 10-0 against Philippines' Ronil Tubog in wrestling. Kiran Bishnoi defeats Nodoka Yamamoto, and advances to the semifinals. Sonam Malik advanced to the wrestling semifinals. In men's cricket, India triumphed over Bangladesh in the semifinals. Women's Regu Team secures Asian Games semifinal, guarantees Bronze medal. Indian badminton players HS Prannoy, Chirag Shetty, and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy aim for silver in the semi-finals. Later, India faces Pakistan in the men's kabaddi blockbuster semi-final. India's total medal tally stands at 21 gold, 32 silver, and 34 bronze.

Transport for London is closely monitoring for bedbug infestations after the insects were spotted on Paris metro trains. Eurostar has also ramped up preventative treatments across its network. Though not proven to transmit diseases, bedbugs can cause sleepless nights with their bites. A TfL spokesperson said to Independent that they are not aware of any London outbreaks but will continue rigorous cleaning measures on trains to assure passengers. Experts warn bedbugs easily travel via luggage and can spread between cities. While Paris battles the creepy critters, London remains on high alert to keep the invasive insects from hopping the Channel.