🦠 AI creates nature-never-seen viruses 🧬

Scientists successfully used AI to design 16 novel viruses not found in nature. This work was conducted by researchers from Stanford and Arc Institute. The study, published in Science, involved testing 285 phages and finding 16 viable ones. These AI-made viruses successfully wiped out E. coli resistant to natural ones, showing potential for new therapies. However, there are safety concerns about repurposing these powerful tools for dangerous pathogens moving forward.

💊 Rs 45 Crore Meth Seized From Ambulance in Mizoram

Methamphetamine tablets valued at Rs 45 crore were seized from an ambulance in Mizoram's Aizawl district. A joint team of Assam Rifles and DRI conducted the operation in the Seling area on Thursday. They seized 15 kg of meth tablets and arrested three individuals, one of whom was a woman pretending to be a patient. The seized narcotics, the trio, and the ambulance were handed over to the DRI for further legal action. Assam Rifles stated this was a significant seizure highlighting anti-drug network coordination.

🔄 Kangana Ranaut shifts stance on Gen Z

BJP MP Kangana Ranaut walked back her 'gutter generation' comments on Friday. She addressed reporters outside Parliament, stating the generation is a source of national pride. She clarified that only 10-15 people were misrepresenting the whole group, unlike her earlier statements. Ranaut pointed to positive youth contributions, like students in Jharkhand and medal-winning athletes. She challenged Gen Z to support causes like Environment Day, marking a sharp shift from her July 27th posts.

🤖 Google Maps can now order your food

Google has significantly upgraded its Gemini-powered Ask Maps feature, adding the ability to order food directly within the app. This functionality partners with providers like Square and Toast, with Uber Eats integration expected soon. Ask Maps can also check real-time prices for local hotels and events, offering direct booking links. By connecting to Gmail, it remembers past conversations and offers personalized recommendations based on your travel plans. These updates, including live transit tracking, are rolling out everywhere Ask Maps is available, starting with US food ordering. 📱

🦇 Rahul Gandhi's Batman moment in Gen Z AMA

Rahul Gandhi held a Gen Z-focused Ask Me Anything session on Instagram on Thursday to connect with young people. The Leader of Opposition, in Lok Sabha, jokingly replied to the question, "Are you Batman?" with a nod to the superhero meme. This outreach happened while discussing student protests in Jharkhand, which entered its 13th day. Gandhi stated that the country's education system has collapsed, being oppressive and unaffordable. He urged every government to listen to students and take action to change the system. 🦇

✨ Ameesha Patel on staying single at 51

Actor Ameesha Patel recently shared on X that she has no plans to get married at the age of 51. She stated that she is super happy being single because she has 100 close family and friends who support her. Patel clarified that she would only consider marriage with someone who respects her individuality and career. She is currently open to dating people who are mentally mature despite receiving many proposals. Her last major success was 'Gadar 2', which earned ₹686 crore worldwide. 🤩

⛈️ Asia's cyclones are getting foodie and animal names

Typhoon 'Dim-sum' has been officially added to the tropical cyclone naming list for the western North Pacific and South China Sea. This name comes from Hong Kong, where over 20,000 people participated in a 2023 exercise. The 2026 additions include food and animal names from various countries like North Korea and Japan. This regional system aims to boost public awareness using culturally recognizable words instead of English names. Future storm warnings in the region might feature these unique, locally sourced names. 🍜

🚨 NEET leak case: CBI uses society app evidence

The CBI charge sheet in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case relies heavily on digital forensics. It cites evidence from the access control app of a Pune society where NTA expert P.V. Kulkarni resided. The agency used records from April, days before the May 3 exam, alongside phone data. Three subject experts allegedly exploited NTA procedural gaps for money. They are currently in judicial custody, facing serious charges.

😡 Panchayat blames rape victim, demands she lick spit

A Bihar Panchayat allegedly declared the woman responsible for her own rape case. This deeply disturbing event took place in a rural area of Bihar. The Panchayat reportedly ordered the victim to lick the spit of the alleged perpetrator. This action reflects severe social prejudice against victims of sexual assault. Authorities are now expected to investigate these serious allegations thoroughly.

📢 Unions call for 'Jail Bharo' protest on August 10

Trade union leaders have called for a nationwide 'Jail Bharo' protest scheduled for August 10. The call was made by Samyukta Kisan Morcha and central trade unions from the CITU office in Jagadamba, Visakhapatnam. These actions are against the Union government’s current policies, such as Labour Codes and privatization plans. Unions demand a minimum wage of ₹31,000 and comprehensive laws for unorganized workers. The Visakhapatnam rally will start at Jagadamba Centre at 10 a.m.

🦠 Candida Auris surge hits 27 US states

Over 3,400 cases of Candida Auris have been reported across 27 different states in the United States. This concerning fungus has been identified in various healthcare settings nationwide. The reported numbers span across several months leading up to the latest data release. Candida Auris is a life-threatening fungal infection that requires careful medical management. Health officials are monitoring the spread to determine necessary public health interventions going forward. 🦠