South China Sea code of conduct: can Beijing and Asean meet 2026 deadline?

South China Morning Post - Nov 15, 2026

China and Southeast Asian nations have made progress in negotiating a code of conduct for the South China Sea, with Manila announcing that roughly 80 per cent of the draft agreement is complete. Yet whether the long-awaited accord can meet its year-end deadline comes down to Beijing and regional claimants finding common ground on key concessions, according to a Chinese expert. Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro said on Saturday after a series of Asean ministerial meetings that 77 per...

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More Nobel winners, less innovation? Chinese study reveals cost of top-tier awards
Nov 15, 2026
More Nobel winners, less innovation? Chinese study reveals cost of top-tier awards

Science prizes usually put the spotlight on winners, celebrating their discoveries but paying little attention to the researchers left out. A study by scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has found that prominent innovation awards may discourage colleagues from pursuing unconventional research – with the most prestigious prizes having the strongest negative effect. The findings raise questions about the wider consequences of scientific honours, including the Nobel Prize, as...

New Jersey had only about 50 osprey pairs in the 1970s; biologists built nest platforms and moved eggs, and by 2023 the state counted 800 occupied osprey nests
Nov 15, 2026
New Jersey had only about 50 osprey pairs in the 1970s; biologists built nest platforms and moved eggs, and by 2023 the state counted 800 occupied osprey nests

Osprey populations in New Jersey rose from about 50 nests in the 1970s to an all-time high of 800 nests. The drastic increase is attributed to conservation efforts and the ban of the pesticide DDT. Biologists have implemented successful interventions, including providing artificial nesting platforms for these birds. While the population is now considered stable, continued monitoring is essential to ensure their wellbeing.

"Pakistan handler 'Shah' provided two arrested accused with IED": Rajasthan ATS chief on Sri Ganganagar railway track blast
Nov 15, 2026
"Pakistan handler 'Shah' provided two arrested accused with IED": Rajasthan ATS chief on Sri Ganganagar railway track blast

Two suspects were arrested for carrying out a blast on the Anupgarh-Suratgarh railway line in Rajasthan. The individuals had received instructions and an IED from a handler in Pakistan named Shah. They reportedly attempted the attack multiple times before succeeding on the third attempt. Authorities are investigating other potential accomplices who may have assisted in the planning or execution.

In 1973, Sheldon Kaplan developed a spring-loaded injector for emergency medicine; the design later became the EpiPen, helping people respond quickly to severe allergies
Nov 15, 2026
In 1973, Sheldon Kaplan developed a spring-loaded injector for emergency medicine; the design later became the EpiPen, helping people respond quickly to severe allergies

EpiPens were initially designed to address military challenges but have evolved into life-saving devices for those suffering from food allergies. Current findings suggest a striking rise in food allergies among adults, with many cases emerging later in life. A recent national survey reveals that over 26 million adults in the USA are affected. Timely epinephrine use can drastically lower hospital visit rates due to severe allergic reactions.

Virginia rebuilt part of I-64 near Williamsburg with recycled old pavement; after 5 years, sensors still found low strain and deflection under real highway traffic
Nov 15, 2026
Virginia rebuilt part of I-64 near Williamsburg with recycled old pavement; after 5 years, sensors still found low strain and deflection under real highway traffic

Interstate 64 in Virginia showcases innovative sections of recycled roads that have been under close observation for more than five years. The results reveal that these recycled areas withstand typical truck loads effectively. Nevertheless, the research highlights that the environmental impact of recycling methods can differ considerably, influenced by the materials chosen for stabilization.

No coding, no laptop, just WhatsApp: How 38 professionals built 57 AI agents in 35 minutes
Nov 15, 2026
No coding, no laptop, just WhatsApp: How 38 professionals built 57 AI agents in 35 minutes

During a recent gathering in Hyderabad, a group of IT experts managed to create 57 AI agents in an astounding 35 minutes. By leveraging a WhatsApp chatbot for task descriptions, they effortlessly generated active agents. This experience emphasized how accessible AI development can be for individuals devoid of coding knowledge, showcasing its potential for addressing immediate challenges in various professional realms.

In the 1940s, Hiawatha, Utah, had about 1,500 residents; its coal mine closed in 1992, and the former company town has since become largely deserted
Nov 15, 2026
In the 1940s, Hiawatha, Utah, had about 1,500 residents; its coal mine closed in 1992, and the former company town has since become largely deserted

Hiawatha, Utah, once a bustling coal company town, has suffered a steep decline as industry dynamics shifted. From a thriving population of 439 residents in 1960, the count plummeted to a mere 43 by 1990. This trend reflects a broader phenomenon, where similar single-industry towns nationwide are facing similar challenges, highlighting the vulnerability of communities tied to a single employer.

Winter session likely in first week of December; govt may push women's quota bill
Nov 15, 2026
Winter session likely in first week of December; govt may push women's quota bill

The Winter session of Parliament is expected to start in early December. The government aims to pass a constitutional amendment bill on women's reservation. This amendment would potentially increase Lok Sabha seats and provide 33 percent reservation for women. Opposition parties are planning protests against the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls during the session. The ruling NDA is confident about securing the necessary votes despite political challenges.

Air purifier sales surge as Delhi-NCR AQI deteriorates; demand spreads beyond traditional markets
Nov 15, 2026
Air purifier sales surge as Delhi-NCR AQI deteriorates; demand spreads beyond traditional markets

Delhi's 24-hour average AQI stood at 367 on Saturday, placing it in the 'very poor' category. Of the 59 monitoring stations reporting data, 17 recorded 'severe' air quality

Today’s Gold Rate November 15: Gold prices steady in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
Nov 15, 2026
Today’s Gold Rate November 15: Gold prices steady in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru

22, 24 carat Gold prices remain steady across metro cities on November 15

Today’s Gold Rate November 15: Gold prices steady in Coimbatore, Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Jaipur
Nov 15, 2026
Today’s Gold Rate November 15: Gold prices steady in Coimbatore, Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Jaipur

22, 24 carat Gold prices remain steady across other cities on November 15

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