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Rudolph at the Christmas market: cute festive attraction or damaging reindeer’s health?

Keeping reindeer in pens for public enjoyment can cause them physical and mental harm, charities warn

With their fluffy coats, big brown eyes and reputation as Santa’s helpers, reindeer are a common and popular attraction at Christmas markets around the UK.

But being stuck in a pen and approached by hordes of adoring fans is harming the mental and physical health of Rudolph and his brethren, animal charities have warned.

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© Photograph: Simon Maycock/Alamy Stock Photo/Alamy Live News.

© Photograph: Simon Maycock/Alamy Stock Photo/Alamy Live News.

© Photograph: Simon Maycock/Alamy Stock Photo/Alamy Live News.

Having nothing to say has never stopped Kemi holding a press conference | John Crace

9 December 2025 at 11:24

Tory leader took on Brexit, benefits claimants and grooming gangs in a presser that probably should have been an email

If a press conference takes place and no one is around to take notice, can it be said to have really happened? Sometimes the most interesting thing is the person saying the thing they did not mean anyone to notice. It was always thus with Brexit.

Time was when a press conference was a relatively rare event. Called only after diplomatic summits or when there was an important piece of news to be announced. Now, though, the format has been so downgraded it is being used for when any politician needs some attention. When the feeling that no one is listening to them becomes unbearable.

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© Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

© Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

© Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

Badenoch announces Tory review of which conditions qualify for benefits

‘Age of diagnosis’ of ‘low-level mental health issues’ such as ADHD making system too costly, Conservative leader says

The Conservatives have begun a policy review to slash the scope and cost of the benefits system, with Kemi Badenoch saying an “age of diagnosis” for “low-level mental conditions” was fast making it unaffordable.

While it is up to the review to come up with specific policies, the Conservative leader hinted that some payments could become time limited, saying one element would examine “at what stage support should come in, and how long it should last”.

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© Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

© Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

© Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

India Rolls Out Digital Life Certificate 4.0, Urges Pensioners to Stay Cyber Safe

10 November 2025 at 00:52

Digital Life Certificate 4.0

The Government of India’s Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) has launched the Digital Life Certificate (DLC) Campaign 4.0, a national drive to make pension services more accessible and efficient for millions of retired central government employees. The Digital Life Certificate 4.0 initiative aims to simplify how pensioners verify their annual life certificates — an essential process to continue receiving pension benefits. Through Face Authentication Technology, biometric devices, mobile applications, and doorstep services, pensioners can now complete the process without visiting a government office or bank.

Simplifying Pension Submissions Through Digital Life Certificate 4.0

The Digital Life Certificate 4.0, also known as Jeevan Pramaan, is a key part of India’s digital governance efforts. It allows pensioners to verify their identity remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits and paperwork. This move is especially beneficial for elderly citizens and those living in distant locations, including Indian pensioners residing overseas. The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare continues to expand its reach through the DLC 4.0 campaign, running from November 1 to November 30, 2025, to ensure that every pensioner can submit their life certificate easily and securely through digital means. [caption id="attachment_106602" align="aligncenter" width="725"]Digital Life Certificate 4.0 Source: https://www.staffnews.in/2025/11/[/caption]

Strengthening Cybersecurity Awareness

With the growing adoption of online systems, the department has also issued an important cybersecurity advisory to protect pensioners from fraud, identity theft, and misuse of personal information. The India pensioners cybersecurity advisory emphasizes that while digital services improve convenience, cybersecurity awareness is crucial to ensure safe transactions. Below are the key precautions the department has advised all pensioners to follow:
  1. Use Only Authorized Platforms
Pensioners should submit their Digital Life Certificate 4.0 only through verified government channels such as: The government has cautioned against using unverified apps or agents claiming to assist with certificate submissions.
  1. Safeguard Personal Information
Pensioners are advised not to share their Aadhaar number, OTPs, bank details, Pension Payment Order (PPO) number, or mobile number with anyone other than authorized officials. Sharing such details can lead to financial or identity-related fraud.
  1. Beware of Fake Calls and Messages
The government clarified that no official agency will ever ask for a pensioner’s password, bank PIN, or OTP over the phone or email. Pensioners are encouraged to double-check any communication claiming to be from a government source.
  1. Keep Devices and Internet Secure
It is important to update mobile phones and computers with the latest software and antivirus protection. Pensioners should also use secure Wi-Fi or mobile networks while submitting their life certificates online.
  1. Report Suspicious Activity
If pensioners suspect any misuse or fraudulent activity, they should immediately report it to their respective banks or file a complaint on India’s official Cyber Crime Portal at https://cybercrime.gov.in.

Building a Safer Digital Ecosystem

By combining convenience with cybersecurity, the Indian government is ensuring that digital initiatives like DLC 4.0 are both user-friendly and secure. The campaign represents a broader national effort to promote digital inclusion, enabling senior citizens to access government services with confidence. For pensioners—particularly those who may be less familiar with online systems—this advisory serves as an essential guide to safe digital practices. It reminds users that while technology makes life easier, vigilance remains the best defense against cyber threats. The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare’s advisory, issued with the approval of the competent authority, underscores India’s growing focus on building a secure and trusted digital future for its citizens. As the DLC 4.0 campaign continues through November 30, 2025, pensioners in India and abroad are encouraged to make use of these digital options—safely, confidently, and with full awareness of the cybersecurity measures that protect them.

Tom Brady Says He Cloned His Dog. Cue the Critics.

5 November 2025 at 09:36
Mr. Brady became the latest celebrity to try to preserve a pet’s genetics, a move that animal rights groups have criticized.

© Ryan Sun/Associated Press

Tom Brady, the former star quarterback, revealed this week that he had cloned his dog.
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