🥚 Ancient humans were pattern-thinking 60,000 years ago

A new study suggests ancient humans possessed advanced pattern recognition capabilities 60,000 years ago. Researchers at the University of Bologna examined 112 ostrich eggshell fragments from South Africa and Namibia. More than 80% of the markings showed consistent spatial patterns, including parallel lines and 90-degree angles. This indicates that visuo-spatial planning existed long before formal education began. The findings suggest that organizing shapes according to rules was a fundamental aspect of early human cognition. 🧐

📊 MPs got social media report cards at PM Modi's meeting

Members of Parliament received social media report cards during a breakfast meeting with Prime Minister Modi. This meeting took place at a location not specified in the provided text. The report cards covered performance metrics across various platforms. The initiative aims to gauge and analyze the online presence of the MPs. Future actions will likely depend on the insights gathered from these assessments. 📊

💖 Maya Angelou's reminder on how we make people feel

Maya Angelou shared a profound quote stating people forget actions and words, but never how they felt. This highlights the importance of emotional impact in every interaction we have. We should intentionally strive to make others feel good through small acts of kindness and empathy. Conversely, being rude leaves a lingering negative feeling even if the event is forgotten. Therefore, practicing kindness is key to leaving a positive mark on everyone we meet.

🎬 Akshay, Saif's film teaser drops August 12

The teaser for the Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan starrer, Haiwaan, is set to be released on August 12. This film is directed by Priyadarshan and stars the duo alongside Shriya Pilgaonkar and Mohanlal. The movie is scheduled for a theatrical release on September 11, 2026. It features an ensemble cast and is being produced by KVN Productions and Thespian Films. Fans can now officially start the countdown to this highly anticipated project. 🤩

🔥 16 Bangladeshi workers die in Riyadh factory fire

Sixteen Bangladeshi nationals tragically died in a massive fire at a sofa factory located in the Musa Sanaiya area of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The incident occurred on Sunday, and the fire reportedly started around 3:30 pm local time in Khordam city. Bangladesh's ministry of foreign affairs has expressed deep grief and offered full support to the affected families. Officials from the Bangladesh Embassy in Riyadh have reached the site to coordinate with Saudi authorities. The embassy is currently working on identifying victims and managing the repatriation formalities. 😔

⛽ MP's 'Father's House' Comment Sparks Uproar on Ethanol

A BJP MP from Rewa, Janardan Mishra, faced backlash after questioning the public regarding pure petrol availability amid the ethanol blending debate. The MP made these remarks on Sunday, August 9, 2026, while launching flight services in Rewa. He argued that if ethanol isn't produced, pure petrol supply will suffer, contrasting this with Brazil's use of blended fuel. The Opposition Congress heavily criticized the statement as arrogant, demanding clarification on the source of ethanol. Netizens also reacted negatively on social media to the controversial comments. ⛽

⛽ MP defends ethanol policy amidst petrol controversy

BJP MP Janardan Mishra defended the Centre’s ethanol policy on Sunday, August 9, 2026, while inaugurating new flight services. He pointed out that India imports 80% of its crude oil, needing long sea voyages for supply. Mishra challenged critics by asking where pure petrol would come from if not produced domestically. He cited Brazil, where vehicles run on 100% ethanol, as evidence that the fuel blend is fine. The MP argued that experts agree ethanol doesn't harm engines, despite unnecessary opposition.

🤖 Google Assistant is ditching for Gemini on Android

Google is starting the shutdown of Google Assistant on Android phones from September 4. This transition is moving users to Gemini as the default mobile voice assistant across devices. The change, announced in March 2025, will take several weeks to fully complete for all users. Gemini uses generative AI for conversational requests, which differs from Assistant's predictable commands. Devices like smartwatches and Android Auto will also transition to Gemini.

⛽ Iran's demands keep oil prices on the rise

Crude oil prices jumped this week following Iran setting six demands for a peace deal with the United States. This tension is happening near the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Peninsula. Brent crude was trading at $84.24 per barrel, while WTI was at $78.70 per barrel as of the report. Iran insists the Strait will only reopen if the US agrees to terms like force withdrawal and sanction relief. Consequently, the Strait remains closed, keeping energy prices elevated amidst ongoing Houthi attacks. ⛽

🛰️ Shuttle launch damage revealed early on

NASA's first Space Shuttle launch on April 12, 1981, resulted in 16 missing and 148 damaged heat shield tiles. This damage occurred within the first few seconds due to the shockwave reflecting off the launch pad. The event, called an overpressure event, showed that the vehicle was stressed by its own ignition force. NASA subsequently implemented a water suppression system to absorb this acoustic energy. This foundational fix continues to evolve for modern launches like the Space Launch System. 🚀

✈️ VietJet Passenger Claims Water Refused for Mother's Medicine

A passenger on VietJet alleges that their request for water for their mother's medication was denied. This incident occurred on a flight, prompting significant discussion among travelers and airline watchdogs. The passenger claims the refusal happened recently, though specific dates were not provided in the report. This situation raises serious concerns regarding passenger care and emergency medical needs during flights. Authorities are expected to review the airline's procedures in light of these serious claims. ✈️