The Whys and Hows

How is Teqball Played? The Sport That Made Its Asian Games Debut

Imagine football skills, table-tennis precision and a uniquely curved table coming together in one sport. That’s teqball — a fast-growing game that is barely 14 years old but has already reached the Asian Games.Invented in Hungary in 2012, teqball made its Asian Games debut at Aichi-Nagoya 2026, giving the relatively young sport a major international platform. India, which discovered the sport only in 2019, was also part of this historic debut.So, How Does Teqball Work?Teqball is played on a curved table with a football, either in singles or doubles. The ball is a standard size-5 football, although it is inflated to a lower pressure. Players can use almost any part of their body except their arms and hands to control the ball.The challenge? Players get a maximum of three touches before they must send the ball back across the net, and the ball must touch the table to remain in play. Players also cannot use the same body part twice in succession, making quick thinking, balance and incredible ball control essential.Twelve Points and No Table TouchingA match follows a best-of-three sets format, with the first player or team to reach 12 points taking a set. And there is one unusual rule: players cannot touch the table. In doubles, there is an additional twist. Teammates must pass the ball to each other at least once before returning it to their opponents.The result is a sport that looks familiar yet feels completely different once the rallies begin.India’s New-Age TeqersTeqball arrived in India in 2019, when Teqball India was formed. However, the game picked up only around 2021–22 after the pandemic slowed its early growth. The country currently has around 180–200 registered players, according to Teqball India technical director Nihar Shah.India’s three-member Asian Games squad featured Quimcy Dsouza, Mohamed Anas Baig and Declan Gonsalves.The players are particularly remarkable because they are self-taught and also hold professional jobs. At the Asian Games, Dsouza narrowly missed a women's singles bronze, while Baig and Dsouza also came close in mixed doubles.A Sport With Room to GrowIndia already has an international teqball medal to its name, with Baig and Gonsalves winning men's doubles bronze at the 2024 World Championships in Vietnam. With its Asian Games debut now complete, teqball has gained a much bigger stage in India.And for a sport born only in 2012, its journey from a Hungarian invention to the Asian Games—and now into India’s sporting landscape—is certainly worth watching.

21 Sep 2026

The Whys and Hows

Why Are Corals So Colourful? The Amazing Science Behind Their Bright Hues

A coral reef can look like an underwater rainbow. Brilliant fish dart between corals glowing in shades of red, pink, purple and green. But beneath those striking colours lies a fascinating partnership between tiny animals and microscopic algae.Corals are living animals made up of tiny creatures called coral polyps. These polyps build the hard skeleton that forms the familiar structure of a coral. The skeleton itself is ghostly white. So where does the colour come from? The answer begins with tiny algae living inside the coral’s tissues.Tiny Algae, Big ContributionKnown as zooxanthellae, these single-celled algae have a remarkable relationship with coral. Using sunlight, they carry out photosynthesis and produce sugars. The algae use some of these sugars themselves, while much of the remaining food—up to 90 percent—can be passed on to the coral. In return, the coral provides the algae with a protected place to live.This mutually beneficial relationship is called mutualism. The chlorophyll inside the algae gives many corals their familiar greenish-brown appearance. But some corals have an additional colour trick.Nature’s Underwater PaintboxMany corals produce special protein pigments that can reflect light in vivid shades of purple, blue, green and red. Some of these pigments are fluorescent. Fluorescent pigments may help convert light into a form that the algae can use. These fluorescent proteins can absorb blue light and emit it as another colour, such as green or red. Light behaves differently underwater. Red light, which has a longer wavelength, does not travel as effectively through water as shorter wavelengths such as blue light. Since photosynthesis needs both blue and red light, converting some blue light into longer-wavelength light could potentially help the algae living inside the coral.A Natural SunscreenThese colourful pigments may have another important job: protection. Strong sunlight, particularly harmful ultraviolet radiation, can damage the algae. Coral pigments can act like a natural sunscreen by filtering out some of this damaging radiation.When exposed to intense light, corals can produce more pigments. They can also temporarily contract their bodies, bringing the pigments closer together to create a stronger protective layer.When the Colour DisappearsThis delicate system becomes especially important as oceans warm. Heat stress can cause corals to lose their algae, a phenomenon known as coral bleaching. Without their algae, corals lose their main source of food and turn white. Prolonged bleaching can eventually lead to coral death. Yet their colourful pigments could offer a glimmer of hope. If pigments help protect coral tissues and encourage algae to return, they may play a role in recovery. The next time a coral reef dazzles with colour, remember: those spectacular hues may be part of the coral’s survival toolkit.

15 Sep 2026

The Whys and Hows

How Can Painting One Wind Turbine Blade Black Save Birds?

Wind energy is one of the cleaner ways to generate electricity. But as wind farms expand, they can create another environmental challenge: bird collisions with rotating turbine blades.Raptors, including white-tailed eagles, can be particularly vulnerable. At Norway’s Smøla wind farm, for example, researchers have recorded several white-tailed eagle deaths each year. So, could a small change to a turbine make a big difference? Researchers decided to test an unusually simple idea: paint one of the three rotor blades black.Why Paint Just One Blade?The answer lies in how birds see moving objects. When all three turbine blades rotate, their rapid movement can create what researchers describe as “motion smear.” In simple terms, the blades can become difficult to distinguish as separate objects.Painting one blade black may make the rotating structure more visible against the background. The idea was inspired by earlier laboratory experiments in the United States that explored whether making moving objects more visually distinct could help birds detect them.Researchers at the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research tested the approach at the Smøla wind farm, located off Norway’s western coast. The results were striking. According to the study, turbines with one painted blade recorded more than 70% fewer bird fatalities compared with neighbouring turbines whose blades remained unpainted.Does One Black Blade Really Make a Difference?It could—but researchers say the story is not quite that simple. The study suggests that making turbine blades easier for birds to see may help them avoid collisions. However, the researchers caution that the effectiveness could vary depending on the location and the bird species involved.More studies are therefore needed at other wind farms before the approach can be considered broadly effective. Research is already being considered at sites in countries including the Netherlands and South Africa.Can Wind Energy and Wildlife Coexist?The finding opens an interesting possibility: perhaps some wildlife protection measures do not require major changes to wind turbines. A simple paint job could potentially become an additional tool where bird collisions are a known problem. However, conservation groups stress that the first priority should still be choosing wind farm locations carefully, away from areas where they could pose significant risks to wildlife. The bigger question, then, is not whether wind energy or wildlife should win. It is how we can design cleaner energy systems that leave more room for nature too.

11 Sep 2026

The Whys and Hows

‘Horn OK Please’: The Quirky Truck Phrase With a Story as Colourful as India’s Roads

Spot a brightly painted Indian truck and there’s a good chance you’ll see the familiar words: “Horn OK Please.”For generations, the phrase has been a quirky fixture on the backs of trucks, buses and taxis, usually surrounded by colourful motifs and elaborate South Asian truck art. But what does it actually mean?Traditionally, the message was aimed at vehicles approaching from behind. If a driver wanted to overtake, they were encouraged to sound the horn and alert the vehicle ahead. It was a simple communication system in an era when roads were often narrower and overtaking required extra caution.But Where Did ‘OK’ Come From?This is where the story gets intriguing. One popular explanation traces the phrase to World War II-era fuel shortages. According to the theory, when diesel was scarce, kerosene was sometimes used in trucks, leading to a warning supposedly reading “Horn Please, On Kerosene.”There is no definitive proof that this was the phrase’s true origin, and the story remains largely anecdotal. Another colourful theory links the word “OK” to Tata’s early dominance of India’s truck market and an alleged connection to products made by the Tata group’s oil and soap businesses.Neither explanation has been conclusively established.From Road Etiquette to Noise PollutionThe phrase, however, eventually found itself on the wrong side of India’s growing battle against unnecessary honking.In 2015, the Maharashtra government banned “Horn OK Please” signage on commercial vehicles, arguing that it encouraged motorists to honk unnecessarily and contributed to noise pollution. The ban was welcomed by transport representatives who argued that the phrase had become outdated as India’s roads evolved.With wider roads and multi-lane highways, drivers could increasingly rely on indicators, headlights and other road signals when overtaking rather than depending on a horn.From Truck Art to Pop CultureWhatever its true origins, “Horn OK Please” became deeply embedded in Indian visual culture. The words became part of the distinctive personality of Indian trucks, alongside painted flowers, birds, landscapes and messages ranging from philosophical to humorous.Its cultural journey even reached Bollywood, with the 2009 comedy Horn OK Pleasss borrowing the iconic phrase for its title. Today, the words may be less welcome on commercial vehicles in some places, but they remain instantly recognisable.A few words painted on the back of a truck became a slice of Indian road culture—and perhaps one of the country’s most memorable automotive phrases.

13 Aug 2026

The Whys and Hows

Gajraj Suraksha: How Technology Is Making India's Railway Tracks Safer for Elephants

India is home to nearly 60% of the world's Asiatic elephants, making it one of the most important countries for elephant conservation. Yet, despite having more than 32 elephant reserves, these majestic giants continue to face growing threats from human activity.Among the biggest dangers are railway tracks. After electrocution, train collisions are the second leading cause of unnatural elephant deaths in India. Now, Indian Railways is turning to artificial intelligence to change that story.Introducing Gajraj SurakshaIn a major leap for wildlife conservation, Indian Railways had launched Gajraj Suraksha, an AI-powered surveillance system designed to prevent elephants from being struck by trains. Following successful field trials in Assam, the Railway Ministry has announced that the technology will now be deployed across nearly 700 kilometres of railway lines passing through elephant habitats in Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, Kerala, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu.The ambitious project, estimated to cost ₹181 crore, is expected to become one of India's largest AI-driven wildlife protection initiatives. Railway officials say continuous improvements based on field experience have enabled the system to identify elephants with an impressive 99.5% accuracy, making it a powerful tool for preventing collisions.How AI Detects Elephants Before Trains DoWhat makes Gajraj Suraksha remarkable is that it uses infrastructure already present along railway tracks. The system is built on the optical fibre cables installed for railway communication and signalling. Whenever an elephant walks close to the tracks, its movement creates vibrations that disturb the light signals travelling through the fibre-optic network.Artificial intelligence instantly analyses these disturbances and distinguishes whether they are caused by elephants, humans or other animals.If an elephant is detected within approximately 200 metres of the railway line, the system immediately sends real-time alerts to the station master, train controller, locomotive pilot and other railway officials. This gives train drivers valuable time to slow down or stop before reaching the animal.The technology can detect elephant movement up to five metres from the optical fibre cable, allowing authorities to respond quickly.A Proven Success in the NortheastThe technology has already demonstrated promising results. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) introduced the Intrusion Detection System in 11 elephant corridors across Alipurduar and Lumding divisions in 2022. Since its implementation, officials have reported the elimination of elephant deaths due to train accidents in these monitored corridors.The encouraging outcome paved the way for the nationwide expansion of Gajraj Suraksha.India has increasingly embraced technology to improve railway safety, from the Kavach anti-collision system for trains to AI-powered monitoring tools.Gajraj Suraksha takes that vision a step further by extending the benefits of innovation beyond passengers to wildlife. As forests shrink and railway networks expand, balancing development with conservation has become more important than ever. By combining artificial intelligence with existing railway infrastructure, Indian Railways is demonstrating that technology can play a vital role in protecting both lives and biodiversity.If its success continues, Gajraj Suraksha could become a global model for using AI to safeguard wildlife while keeping one of the world's busiest railway networks moving safely.

3 Aug 2026

The Whys and Hows

Why Is the Himalayan 'Diamond' Flower So Rare? The Incredible Alpine Bloom That Defies Nature

Imagine trekking through icy Himalayan slopes where the air is thin, temperatures plunge below freezing and strong winds whip across barren mountain ridges. Just when you think nothing could survive there, a towering flower rises from the rocks, sometimes taller than a fully grown adult.Meet the Kenzo, also known locally as Padamchal, a spectacular alpine flower often called the Himalayan Diamond. It is also called Rheum nobile or Sikkim Rhubarb.Found at elevations exceeding 4,000 metres, this rare bloom has fascinated botanists, trekkers and traditional healers for generations.Why Is It Called the Himalayan 'Diamond'?The nickname isn't simply because the flower is rare. Like a diamond, the Kenzo is forged by extreme conditions. It thrives where most plants would perish—enduring intense ultraviolet radiation, freezing nights, powerful mountain winds and oxygen levels nearly 40% lower than at sea level. Growing on rocky alpine slopes and glacial moraines, it has adapted to one of the harshest environments on Earth.Its ability to flourish against such overwhelming odds has earned it the title of the Himalayan Diamond. For experienced trekkers, spotting one in bloom is considered a once-in-a-lifetime reward.Why Does It Take So Long to Bloom?Patience is one of nature's greatest lessons, and the Himalayan Diamond is proof of it. Unlike common flowering plants that bloom every season, the Kenzo spends seven to fifteen years quietly gathering energy before producing a single spectacular bloom.Every year, the plant stores nutrients while surviving freezing winters and short growing seasons. Only when conditions are just right does it produce its magnificent flowering stalk. This slow life cycle makes every bloom exceptionally rare and valuable from a botanical perspective.Can a Flower Really Grow Taller Than a Human?Surprisingly, yes. Under favourable conditions, the Himalayan Diamond can grow more than two metres tall, making it one of the tallest alpine flowering plants found in the Himalayas. Towering above the surrounding vegetation, its impressive height helps it stand out in the rugged mountain landscape .The Himalayan Diamond is far more than a beautiful flower. It is a symbol of survival, patience and resilience. While most life struggles in freezing temperatures and thin air, this remarkable alpine plant quietly flourishes, waiting years for its moment to bloom. It reminds us that nature often produces its greatest wonders in the most challenging places. As Himalayan botanical studies continue to uncover more about these extraordinary high-altitude plants, the Kenzo remains one of the mountains' most captivating mysteries.For those fortunate enough to witness it in bloom, the Himalayan Diamond is not just another wildflower, it's a living reminder that beauty often takes time, and the rarest treasures are found where few dare to venture.

30 Jul 2026

The Whys and Hows

Guarded Day and Night: Why Does This Tree Near Sanchi Have 24x7 Security?

Imagine a single tree protected by armed guards 24 hours a day, enclosed within a towering iron fence, monitored by agricultural experts, and maintained at an annual cost that runs into lakhs. It may sound unbelievable, but this is the reality of the sacred Bodhi tree standing on a hillock near Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh.Located at Salamatpur, around eight kilometres from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sanchi Stupa, this Peepal tree is unlike any other in India. Often referred to as the country's first "VVIP tree," every aspect of its care is meticulously planned. Officials ensure that not even a single leaf is left to wither, while dedicated water tankers and expert horticulturists regularly monitor its health.But what makes this tree worthy of such extraordinary protection? The answer lies in a remarkable story that stretches across more than 22 centuries.The Story Begins with Emperor AshokaAccording to various reports online, the sacred journey of this Bodhi tree dates back to the 3rd century BCE during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, one of history's greatest patrons of Buddhism. After embracing Buddhism, Ashoka decided to spread the teachings of Gautama Buddha beyond India's borders. He entrusted his son, Arhat Mahinda, and daughter, Sanghamitta, with carrying a sapling from the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, the very tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, to Sri Lanka.Interestingly, historical accounts state that Mahinda and Sanghamitta began this historic mission from Sanchi itself before sailing to Sri Lanka. The sapling was planted at Anuradhapura, in Sri Lanka, where it grew into the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, one of the world's oldest continuously documented living trees.A Historic Journey Comes Full CircleCenturies passed, and while the original Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya was damaged and replaced multiple times through history, its ancient lineage remained alive in Sri Lanka. More than 2,200 years after Ashoka's historic gift, the story came full circle.In September 2012, then Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa brought a sacred sapling from the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi back to India. The sapling was planted near Sanchi's Buddhist Vihara, symbolically returning the sacred lineage to the place from where it had once begun its journey across the sea. Why Every Leaf MattersFor millions of Buddhists worldwide, this is far more than a Peepal tree. It represents an unbroken biological and spiritual connection to the original Bodhi tree associated with Buddha's enlightenment. As a direct descendant of that ancient lineage, the tree has become a symbol of peace, faith, and historical continuity.Recognising its immense significance, the Madhya Pradesh government has placed the tree under constant protection. A 15-foot-high iron mesh fence surrounds it, while four security personnel guard it around the clock. Agricultural specialists regularly inspect its condition, ensuring the sacred tree remains healthy for generations to come.Standing Beside Sanchi's Timeless LegacyThe Bodhi tree's presence beautifully complements the nearby Sanchi Stupa, one of India's oldest stone monuments and among the finest surviving examples of Buddhist architecture. Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, the Sanchi Stupa houses sacred relics of the Buddha and is renowned for its exquisitely carved stone gateways that narrate stories from Buddhist traditions. Together, the ancient monument and the sacred tree create a powerful reminder of Buddhism's enduring journey through time.In an age where monuments are often built from stone and steel, this living tree stands as perhaps the most remarkable heritage monument of all, its roots preserving a story that has travelled across nations and survived centuries.

16 Jul 2026

The Whys and Hows

Why Is There a Pineapple on Top of the Wimbledon Trophy? The Answer Dates Back Centuries

Every year, the world's greatest tennis stars dream of lifting the prestigious Wimbledon Gentlemen's Singles Trophy. Fans celebrate the thrilling rallies, dramatic victories and emotional championship moments, but there's one curious detail that often steals attention.Sitting proudly atop the gleaming silver-gilt trophy is a golden pineapple. Why would one of the world's oldest and most prestigious sporting trophies be crowned with a tropical fruit? The answer lies in centuries of history, royal traditions and one of Britain's greatest symbols of status.When Pineapples Were Worth a FortuneToday, pineapples are found in supermarkets around the world. But in the 17th and 18th centuries, they were among the rarest and most expensive fruits in Europe. Imported from the Caribbean and other tropical regions, pineapples were incredibly difficult to transport and nearly impossible to grow in Britain's cold climate. Owning one was considered a remarkable display of wealth.In Victorian England, the fruit became a powerful symbol of luxury, prestige and prosperity. Wealthy aristocrats proudly displayed pineapples at grand banquets, not only as food but often simply as decorative centrepieces to impress guests.Serving a pineapple was considered the highest form of hospitality, a way of telling visitors they were truly honoured.A Symbol of Welcome and TraditionThe pineapple's story doesn't end with lavish dinner tables. Another popular historical belief, as reported in Mirror, links the fruit to Britain's seafaring heritage. According to tradition, successful naval captains returning safely from long voyages would place a pineapple outside their homes to announce their return and warmly welcome friends and neighbours.Over time, the fruit came to represent hospitality, friendship and celebration, Avalues that perfectly reflected the spirit of Wimbledon.Since its beginnings, the tournament has been known for elegance, sportsmanship and graciousness. The pineapple became a fitting symbol of the warm welcome extended to players and spectators from across the globe.A Victorian Design That Stood the Test of TimeAccording to a report in Trophies and Medals.com, the famous pineapple first appeared on the Wimbledon trophy in 1883, shortly after the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club introduced the iconic silver-gilt cup for the Gentlemen's Singles Champion.Victorian designers often incorporated ornamental fruits into architecture, furniture and decorative arts. Choosing a pineapple for the trophy reflected the artistic style of the era while also linking Wimbledon to refinement and elite society. More than 140 years later, although the trophy has been recreated over time, the golden pineapple continues to crown it proudly.A Crown Reserved for Tennis RoyaltyThe pineapple carries another powerful meaning—it represents rarity. Just as owning a pineapple once symbolised extraordinary privilege, becoming a Wimbledon champion is one of the grandest achievements in sport. Only a select group of players have earned the honour of lifting the iconic trophy, joining legends whose names are forever etched into tennis history.Interestingly, champions don't get to keep the original trophy forever. After the Centre Court celebrations and the Champions' Dinner, the historic cup is returned to the All England Club, where it is carefully preserved in the Wimbledon Museum. Instead, winners receive a beautifully crafted three-quarter-size replica, engraved with the names of past champions, allowing them to treasure their historic achievement for life.The golden pineapple may appear to be a small decorative flourish, but it represents far more than elegant craftsmanship. It tells a story of Victorian Britain, global exploration, hospitality, prestige and excellence.For more than a century, it has watched generations of champions lift one of sport's most coveted trophies. While Wimbledon continues to evolve with each passing tournament, this tiny golden fruit remains an enduring reminder that some traditions are simply timeless.

15 Jul 2026

The Whys and Hows

Why This Cave Filled with Rare 'Pearls' Is Fascinating Scientists Around the World

Deep beneath the lush landscapes of Vietnam's Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, an extraordinary underground discovery has left scientists and cave explorers in awe. A newly found cavern, now named Thang Cave or Victory Cave, is not just another limestone wonder, it is home to an exceptionally large concentration of rare cave pearls, a geological phenomenon that even seasoned explorers say is incredibly uncommon.The discovery has sparked excitement among researchers, who believe the cave could unlock valuable insights into Earth's geological history while opening new opportunities for eco-tourism in one of Southeast Asia's most spectacular natural landscapes.An Adventurous Journey into the UnknownThang Cave was first spotted by a local resident in the Ma Da Valley, nestled between Elephant Cave and Ma Da Lake. Soon after, the park authorities launched a six-day scientific expedition to explore the hidden chamber. But reaching it was no easy task.Researchers had to descend nearly 20 metres using mountaineering equipment before entering the mysterious underground world. Once inside, they discovered that the cave stretches for nearly 3 kilometres, averaging around 70 metres in width, with some sections expanding beyond 100 metres. The cave also features two entrances, one spacious enough for easy access and another so narrow that only a single adult can squeeze through.Nature's Underground MasterpieceAs the explorers ventured deeper, they encountered an astonishing landscape sculpted over hundreds of thousands of years. Towering stalactite columns rise as high as 50 metres, while gigantic stalagmites, shimmering stone curtains and massive karst formations create a surreal underground panorama. Every chamber reveals intricate limestone formations shaped patiently by water and time, transforming the cave into what researchers describe as a natural geological museum.The Mystery of the Rare Cave PearlsWhat truly captured scientists' attention was the discovery of countless cave pearls—small, smooth, almost perfectly round white mineral formations resting inside natural rock basins.Unlike precious pearls found in oysters, cave pearls are created entirely by geology. Over thousands of years, mineral-rich water continuously drips onto tiny particles such as grains of sand or rock fragments. Each droplet deposits an incredibly thin layer of calcium carbonate, gradually building perfectly rounded spheres. While cave pearls are known to occur in limestone caves around the world, finding them in such remarkable abundance is exceptionally rare.Experienced cave researchers involved in the expedition admitted they had never witnessed deposits of this scale before, making Thang Cave one of the most significant cave pearl discoveries in recent years.Why Scientists Are So ExcitedBeyond their beauty, the cave pearls tell an important scientific story. Their formation requires highly stable geological and hydrological conditions over thousands of years. Their abundance suggests that Thang Cave has remained remarkably undisturbed for an incredibly long period, preserving clues about climate, groundwater movement and the evolution of karst landscapes.Researchers believe the cave will become an important site for geological studies, helping scientists better understand how underground ecosystems evolve over time.A New Wonder for Sustainable TourismLocated within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, the newly discovered cavern has the potential to become another jewel in Vietnam's growing reputation as one of the world's greatest cave destinations.For now, however, Thang Cave remains a place of wonder, a hidden underground kingdom where nature quietly spent thousands of years crafting tiny stone pearls, waiting patiently for humanity to discover one of its best-kept secrets.

10 Jul 2026

The Whys and Hows

Scientists Have Built India's First Mobile Liquid Tree, SALT—How Does It Work?

Urban pollution has long been one of India's toughest environmental challenges. Crowded roads, concrete landscapes, and shrinking green spaces leave little room for nature to do its job. But what if the answer wasn't planting another tree—rather, carrying one wherever it's needed?Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) have developed an innovative air-purification system called the Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT)—a compact, mobile "liquid tree" that harnesses the power of microscopic algae to clean polluted air.Already installed at the CSIR-CIMFR campus in Dhanbad, this futuristic invention could transform how cities combat pollution in space-starved urban environments.A Tree That Grows in WaterUnlike conventional trees rooted in soil, SALT is essentially a transparent container filled with water and millions of microscopic algae known as microalgae.These tiny organisms may be invisible to the naked eye, but they perform one of nature's most remarkable processes—photosynthesis. Just like plants, microalgae absorb carbon dioxide from the surrounding air using sunlight and release oxygen as a by-product. In fact, scientists estimate that microalgae produce nearly half of the world's oxygen, making them one of Earth's most powerful natural oxygen generators.By recreating this biological process inside a compact unit, SALT functions like a miniature ecosystem that can fit where traditional trees simply cannot.How Does It Clean the Air?The science behind SALT is surprisingly simple yet incredibly effective. Air containing carbon dioxide enters the algae-filled chamber, where the microalgae absorb the greenhouse gas during photosynthesis. In return, they release fresh oxygen into the atmosphere.As polluted air passes through the liquid medium, certain airborne pollutants and dust particles are also trapped or biologically processed, improving overall air quality.One of SALT's biggest advantages is that it doesn't rely solely on sunlight. The system can continue functioning under artificial lighting and can be powered using either solar energy or electricity, making it suitable for round-the-clock operation.Built for Cities That Can't Grow More TreesAccording to project leader and senior principal scientist Vetrivel Anguselvi, the primary objective is to improve air quality in densely populated urban areas where there is little or no space to plant large trees. Unlike earlier liquid tree concepts that remained stationary, SALT has been designed to be mobile. It can be relocated easily and deployed wherever pollution levels are highest.Potential locations include transport hubs, industrial zones, shopping malls, educational institutions, parks, and other busy public spaces where clean air is urgently needed.Can It Replace Real Trees?The answer is a clear no. Natural trees remain irreplaceable. They provide shade, cool cities, support biodiversity, conserve water, and create habitats for countless living organisms. SALT is not intended to compete with nature but to complement it.Its real strength lies in places where planting trees is nearly impossible. Since the system requires no soil, minimal maintenance, and is less vulnerable to pests and harsh urban conditions, it offers a practical solution for heavily built-up areas.Researchers are now exploring commercial production and hope to make the technology affordable enough for residential neighbourhoods and pollution hotspots across the country.As cities continue to expand, innovative solutions like SALT could become an important part of India's clean-air strategy. While it may never replace the countless benefits of a real tree, this algae-powered invention proves that science can help nature reach places where roots simply cannot.

8 Jul 2026

The Whys and Hows

Good News

Gas Found in Deep Waters: ONGC Makes Fresh Discovery Off Odisha Coast

India’s Indigenous KAL Drone Successfully Completes Long-Range Flight Test at Pokhran

Nagaland’s ‘Angh’ Wins TIFF’s Platform Prize, Becomes Eligible for Direct Oscar Entry!

A Boat With a Brain! IIT Madras Team Wins Autonomous Vessel Challenge in Norway

20 NCC Girl Cadets Conquer 250-Km High-Altitude Trek Across Himachal and Ladakh

Marathi Movie ‘Gondhal’ Is India’s Official Entry for Best International Feature Film at Oscars 2027

Northern Army Commander Praises Troops as Joint Forces Neutralise Two Terrorists in J&K's Udhampur

Robotic Dogs, Drones and Snipers: India-US Troops Train in High-Tech Counterterrorism Drill at Auli

Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 Begins: India’s Cleanliness Drive Gets a People-Powered Push

Tricolour at 6,759 Metres: ITBP’s Himalayan Mission Ends in Triumph

Positive Reads

When Compassion Took the Front Seat: Kerala CM Stops Convoy to Help Accident Victim

They Turned Their Grief Into a Gift for Children: Rajasthan Brothers’ Heartwarming Tribute

Auto Akka Raji: The Chennai Driver Turning Rides into Acts of Kindness

25,000 Students Came Together in This City, Made Clay Ganesh Idols—and Broke a World Record!

Slingshots, Not Saplings: Rajasthan Women Take Aim at a Greener Aravalli

20 Km in 16 Minutes: A Green Corridor Paves the Way for a Life-Saving Heart Transplant in Noida

Once Feared Extinct, the World’s Smallest Pig Is Now Thriving in Assam, Thanks to Conservation Efforts

His Eyes Live On: Grieving Parents Donate Son’s Corneas, Giving Others Hope

Swachh Vayu Survekshan 2026: Lucknow Tops India’s Clean-Air Rankings With 198 Points

This Teachers’ Day, Meet the Woman Whose Classroom Has No Walls, But Whose Lessons Have No Limits

The Whys and Hows

How is Teqball Played? The Sport That Made Its Asian Games Debut

Why Are Corals So Colourful? The Amazing Science Behind Their Bright Hues

How Can Painting One Wind Turbine Blade Black Save Birds?

‘Horn OK Please’: The Quirky Truck Phrase With a Story as Colourful as India’s Roads

Gajraj Suraksha: How Technology Is Making India's Railway Tracks Safer for Elephants

Why Is the Himalayan 'Diamond' Flower So Rare? The Incredible Alpine Bloom That Defies Nature

Guarded Day and Night: Why Does This Tree Near Sanchi Have 24x7 Security?

Why Is There a Pineapple on Top of the Wimbledon Trophy? The Answer Dates Back Centuries

Why This Cave Filled with Rare 'Pearls' Is Fascinating Scientists Around the World

Scientists Have Built India's First Mobile Liquid Tree, SALT—How Does It Work?

Star Citizens

She Codes, She Competes, She Inspires: Umanga Kumawat’s Journey from Google to the Pageant Stage

Indian Author Ruthvika Rao Bags £10,000 Wilbur Smith Prize for Debut Novel

She Walked 4 Km to School. Now, She Is Kerala’s First Collector from a Tribal Community

Anant Nag to Receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Dedicates Honour to Kannadigas

Ladakh’s Stanzin Jigmet Wins Gold at Student Academy Awards for The Dragon Letter

A Voice That Prints Braille: Andhra Student Himaja Wins James Dyson Award

Indian-American Engineer Sethuraman Panchanathan Wins Prestigious 2026 Bueche Award

Iron Lady of Assam, Sanjukta Parashar Becomes First Woman Officer to Lead CRPF’s CoBRA

Army Doctor and Mother of Two Shivani Sangwan Completes 122-Km Ladakh Ultra

Sqn Ldr Neha Devi Becomes First Non-Ladakhi Woman to Complete Khardung La 72K in Under 9 Hours

Wanderlust

India’s First Immersive Language Museum Is Bringing Words to Life in Kolkata

Varanasi Set for Its First-Ever Air Show: Rafale, Tejas & Surya Kiran to Roar Over the Ganges

India’s First Permanent Immersive Event Dome Is Coming Up in Jaipur

Ladakh Puts on a Spectacular Show as World’s Highest Twin Flower Fields Open at 10,600 Feet

Munnar Turns Purple! The Flower That Blooms Once Every 12 Years Has Everyone Talking

Kashmir Takes the Global Spotlight as Its First International Film Festival Opens

Sikkim Wins Award of Excellence for Sustainable Tourism—Here’s Why It Stands Out

Ganga Aarti Is Coming to the Thames: London to Witness a Unique Indian Cultural Celebration

From Gul-Mehndi to Nagphana: Amrit Udyan Blooms With a Summer Floral Spectacle!

Snow Leopards, High Mountains and Wild Adventures: Ladakh to Launch India’s First High-Altitude Safari

Global News

A New Way to Cut Carbon Emissions: Denmark Opens Europe’s First Full-Scale CO₂ Storage Facility

He Jumped From 11,551 Metres! Russian Skydiver Sets World Record in Daring High-Altitude Feat

China Lands Its First Orbital Rocket Booster—A Giant Leap Towards Reusable Spaceflight

The Skies Are Going Electric: World’s Largest Battery-Powered Aircraft Takes Flight

She's Only 12—But She Became the World's Youngest IBM-Certified AI Engineer

Meet Nathan Thomas: The 18-Year-Old Who Became the World's Youngest Male Professor

The World's Most Inspiring Wall Isn't Made of Stone—It's Made of Trees!

A World First: Scientists Create a Synthetic Cell That Can Replicate

Italy Becomes a Forest Nation as Woodlands Overtake Farmland After Centuries

Slow and Steady… for 194 Years! Jonathan the Tortoise is the World’s Oldest Land Animal

Sports Spirit

Women’s Cricket Team Wins India’s First Asian Games 2026 Gold

How Three Shooters Came Together to Win India’s First Asian Games 2026 Medal

Pawan Sehrawat Replaces Tajinderpal Singh as India’s Male Flag-Bearer at Asian Games

Manu Bhaker and Tajinderpal Singh Toor to Lead India as Flag-Bearers at Asian Games

Abhishek Sharma Blasts 30-Ball Century, Rewrites India’s T20I Record

She Left Home at 8. Now She’s India’s Lone Gymnast at Asian Games 2026

From Garba Beats to Ice: 13-Year-Old Abrysha Srivastava Puts India on the Figure Skating Map

Dhiraj Bommadevara Becomes First Indian Male Recurve Archer to Win World Cup Final Gold

Hockey Hat-trick! India Win Women's Junior Asia Cup for Third Straight Time, Beat China 1-0

At Just 4, Elena Mishra Makes Chess History as the Youngest Female FIDE-Rated Player