Cyclone Murasu – First Tamil Name for a Tropical Cyclone: Murasu became the first Tamil name assigned to a tropical cyclone since the North Indian Ocean naming system began in September 2004 + Storm Location – Severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal + Suggested By – Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai + Meaning – Murasu is a traditional Tamil percussion instrument + Historical Significance – Used to disseminate information, alert communities about natural disasters and produce loud warning signals.

Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026: Inaugurated by the Prime Minister at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, to promote scientific research, technological innovation and collaboration + Theme – “Creative Minds, Catalyzing Science, Empowering Technologies” + Participation – Over 300 invited delegates from India and abroad + Thematic Areas – Covers 12 areas, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), biotechnology, advanced materials, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, energy, climate science and ocean sciences.

UN Ends Political Mission in Somalia (2026): The UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) officially closed on October 31, 2026, after a two-year transition, ending over three decades of UN political operations in the country + Evolution of Mission – 1995: UN Political Office for Somalia (UNPOS) established; 2013: UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) formed; 2024: Renamed UNTMIS for a two-year transition; 2026: Mission closed, with responsibilities transferred to Somali institutions and the UN Country Team + Objectives – Support democracy, rule of law, political reconciliation, institution-building and peacebuilding.