🤖 AI model distillation sparks US-China tech tension

AI model distillation allows smaller models to learn from powerful ones by using their outputs for training. This technique is now a flashpoint in the US-China AI race because of defense applications. Chinese military-linked researchers reportedly used outputs from US AI models for defence research. The IISS notes this illicit distillation lets compute-limited actors gain useful AI skills. This escalating tech competition is changing how military AI is being developed and deployed. 🤖

👮 Mathura cops restrict access to Krishna Janmabhoomi

Police in Mathura tightened security after calls for 'kar seva' at the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi site. Officials stopped people from entering the complex, citing High Court and Supreme Court orders. These orders prohibit any new religious practices that might disrupt law and order at the site. SP (City) Rajiv Kumar confirmed that individuals without permission were removed and sent back to their jurisdictions. The situation remains under court supervision, and dialogue with all parties continues. 👮

😠 Feminist group demands RSS cut ties with TG Mohandas

The All-India Feminist Alliance (ALIFA) has formally demanded that the RSS takes action against TG Mohandas following his comments made at Jantar Mantar. The alliance issued an open letter on August 9, targeting Mohan Bhagwat and Dattatreya Hosabale regarding his remarks. Mohandas made violent statements on July 26, suggesting violence and rape against protestors. ALIFA insists the RSS and BJP publicly condemn these remarks and sever all association with him. The alliance has given the RSS and BJP until August 14 to respond to their four demands. 😠

🎮 Minecraft Bedrock 26.40 is finally here 🧱

Minecraft Bedrock Edition version 26.40 has been released with gameplay tweaks and experimental features. Mojang pushed this update on August 4, 2026, bringing quality-of-life improvements and new content. This patch includes wool stairs, the Dappled Forest biome, and controls for Nether portal distortion. Boats now take fewer hits, and builders gain access to new decorative blocks like cushions. Players can download 26.40 now, though some are still reporting ongoing lag issues.

🛩️ Laser beam messes with Malaysia flight near Kolkata ✈️

A Malaysia Airlines flight, MH-184, carrying 159 passengers faced landing disruption near Kolkata airport. The pilot was distracted by a bright laser beam flashing towards the cockpit from the Madhyamgram-Barasat side. The flight was scheduled for 11:20 pm on Saturday but safely landed around 11:25 pm on Sunday. Airport authorities lodged a complaint as the laser flash temporarily disoriented the pilot. Police are now investigating the incident, as such beams pose a real risk to aviation.

🏏 Rishabh Pant wants to move home, CM promises support

Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant requested assistance for buying land in his home state, Uttarakhand. He specifically tagged Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on social media regarding this issue. Pant mentioned struggling to acquire suitable land for around three years, starting in early Saturday. He clarified he intends to purchase the property at official government rates, not seek a special favor. Dhami responded by assuring Pant that the matter was referred to officials and all possible cooperation would be provided.

💼 NTA hiring: Roles from Researcher to CISO open

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has opened applications for multiple roles including Researcher, General Manager, and Content Writer. These positions are located at the NTA's New Delhi Head Office and across various departments. Candidates can apply for these roles until August 21, 2026, with pay based on industry standards. The agency aims to strengthen its communications and outreach to reach many stakeholders clearly. Professionals interested in these diverse openings should check the specific eligibility criteria now. 🧐

🚀 iPhone 17 prices might jump before 18 Pro drops

Rumours suggest Apple might increase the prices of the iPhone 17 lineup just one month before the iPhone 18 Pro is expected. Tipster Fixed Focus Digital reported this potential price hike could start on August 10, though some uncertainty exists. Furthermore, Apple reportedly paused plans to boost production capacity on specific manufacturing lines from 15% to 30%. This follows prior price increases for MacBook and iPad models in India in June due to memory chip costs. Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and its first foldable iPhone at its September event. 📱

📱 iPhone 18 Pro event date predictions are out

Apple is set to launch the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a foldable iPhone in September. The keynote is predicted to happen on Wednesday, September 9, with announcements coming out around August 26. Pre-orders are expected to start on Friday, September 11, globally. Early reviews might drop on Wednesday, September 16, or Thursday, September 17. The company aims to align its event timing before IFA in Berlin. 📱

🏏 Rahane wants clear World Cup spot for Rohit Sharma

Ajinkya Rahane has demanded that the Indian team management provide a definitive commitment regarding Rohit Sharma's place in the 2027 World Cup squad. Rahane raised this issue after speculation intensified during India's ODI tour of England last month. Reports suggested selectors might have reservations about the veteran opener's inclusion for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Rahane insists that once a decision is made, it should not be discussed series by series, as it affects a player's rhythm. He firmly believes Rohit's vast experience is essential for the team's success in the major tournament. 🏏

🚨 Laser beam messes with pilot, flight circles in Kolkata

A Malaysia Airlines flight carrying 159 passengers was delayed while approaching Kolkata Airport on Sunday. Flight MH-184, scheduled for 11:20 pm Saturday, was affected when a pilot noticed a bright laser beam near Madhyamgram-Barasat. The laser temporarily disoriented the pilot, causing the aircraft to circle before a final approach. The flight finally landed safely around 11:25 pm, with all passengers and crew reported safe. Authorities have lodged a complaint as the use of such lasers is prohibited around the airport. ✈️