South Korea's defense industry plans AI-enabled technology for aircraft control, easing pilot workload. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and the Research Institute of Defence aim for an operational AI system by November 2028, supporting various platforms. The focus includes a Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) system linking helicopters and unmanned air vehicles, with studies for a similar setup involving FA-50 light-attack aircraft. The move responds to North Korea's military advancements, enhancing South Korea's ability to develop combat systems. FA-50, vital for close air support, aims to possess loyal wingmen for significant force-on-force contact.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accuses government of conspiring to abolish quotas in UGC draft guidelines, stating: "This is an attempt to kill the dreams of those fighting for social justice and to eliminate the participation of the deprived sections." Congress leaders highlight concerns over vacancy rates and low representation of marginalized groups. Government responds, affirming no de-reservation of reserved posts. UGC chairperson states: "There is going to be no such de-reservation." Opposition condemns move, alleging deliberate vacancy creation. Congress leader Udit Raj asserts: "Posts of professor were being deliberately kept vacant." Controversy ensues over potential impact on social justice initiatives.

A Japanese macaque is on the loose in the Scottish Highlands after breaking out of its enclosure at the Highland Wildlife Park near Kincraig. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland has mobilized a team to recapture the animal and urges the public not to approach it. Sightings were reported in gardens of the nearby village of Kincraig, prompting alerts to local residents. Witnesses described the monkey snacking from bird feeders and wandering around gardens. Authorities advise anyone who spots the monkey to contact the zoological society and refrain from attempting to approach the animal.

India's Jasprit Bumrah faces ICC reprimand and a demerit point for inappropriate physical contact with England's Ollie Pope during the Hyderabad Test. The incident occurred during the 81st over of England's second innings. Bumrah obstructed Pope's path while running between wickets, resulting in a collision. Bumrah admitted to the offence, avoiding the need for a formal hearing. According to ICC's Code of Conduct, any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited. As it's Bumrah's first transgression within two years, he received an official reprimand and one demerit point, added to his record.      

As Aslef train drivers initiate a nine-day overtime ban, UK rail passengers face substantial disruptions with thousands of trains likely to be canceled at short notice until February 6. One-day strikes across 17 operators add to the turmoil amid the ongoing pay and working arrangements dispute. London's key services, including South Western Railway, Southeastern, and Govia Thameslink Railway, will be significantly impacted, urging passengers to check for changes. Operating hours may vary, emphasizing the need for travelers to stay informed during this period of extensive rail challenges.

Poland embarks on Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK), a £7 billion airport project set to become Europe's largest. Located 40km west of Warsaw, CPK aims to integrate air, road, and rail transport, with phase one featuring two runways and a terminal for 40 million passengers by 2028. President Andrzej Duda hails CPK as vital for Poland's 21st-century progress. Deputy Minister Marcin Horala emphasizes CPK's European significance, enhancing mobility standards continent-wide. Approvals secured, CPK signals a transformative shift in European transport, promising enhanced connectivity and mobility opportunities for millions.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announces a ban on disposable vapes and plans to restrict vape flavors to combat rising usage among children. The proposed legislation also makes it illegal for those born after January 1, 2009, to buy tobacco, aligning with the PM's goal for a smoke-free generation. Enforcement agencies receive £30m annually to enforce measures, including new fines for illegal vape sales to children. The ban aims to be in effect by the end of 2025. Health and environmental campaigners welcome the move amid concerns about the environmental impact of disposable vapes.

The body of a baby girl was discovered in a West Yorkshire pub toilet, prompting a police investigation. Emergency crews responded to the Three Horseshoes pub in Oulton on Sunday, calling it a "traumatic incident." Police urgently appeal for the newborn's mother to seek medical help, emphasizing her welfare. The pub expressed gratitude for support. A full investigation is underway with NHS assistance. Conservative MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke urges caution and calls for information. Police stress the priority is the mother's safety and well-being. Contact can be made through the police or Leeds Maternity Assessment Unit.

Ollie Pope's sensational 196, filled with unconventional sweeps and reverse sweeps, led England to a thrilling 28-run victory over India in the Hyderabad Test. Acknowledging the challenge posed by Pope's 'Bazball,' India's head coach Rahul Dravid emphasized the need for disciplined execution from bowlers. Dravid praised Pope's exceptional innings while expressing confidence in India's spinners bouncing back. Despite an injury scare to Ravindra Jadeja, Dravid remains focused on strategizing for the upcoming Visakhapatnam Test starting on February 2. India aims to counter Pope's unorthodox approach and regain control in the series.

Tata Steel, owner of Port Talbot steelworks, plans to defend job cuts and discuss potential UK investment during testimony to MPs. The decision to close two blast furnaces, axing 2,800 jobs, faced criticism. Tata may propose a new plant for direct reduced iron (DRI), a low-emission technology. The company emphasizes openness to further investment with the right conditions. MPs express concern about subsidies following recent financial support. Executives argue Tata's patient investment in UK steelworks since 2007 yielded no profit or dividends. The hearing will explore the impact on the local community and the UK steel sector's future.