🦠 Animals can eat nature's bioplastic 🤯

Microorganisms naturally create bioplastics called polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) which store carbon and energy. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology in Bremen, Germany, discovered that animals possess enzymes to break down these PHAs. This finding was observed in a marine worm, Olavius algarvensis, and later confirmed in over 66 animal species. The discovery changes understanding of how microbial carbon enters animal food webs. This suggests animals have been utilizing nature's original bioplastic for a long time.

♟️ Hikaru Nakamura advises Gukesh to ditch Carlsen comparison

American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura believes World Champion D Gukesh is struggling due to immense pressure. Nakamura suggested Gukesh should forget comparing himself to Magnus Carlsen to regain form. Gukesh's FIDE rating dropped to 2703 in the August 2026 list, and Nakamura thinks he can reach 2,740. He views the upcoming title defense against Javokhir Sindarov as a close match, despite Sindarov being favored. Overall, Nakamura sees a bright future for Indian chess with players like Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa. ♟️

🧐 Serious irregularities flagged in Kerala PSC probe

VD Satheesan announced a serious probe is underway regarding irregularities in the Kerala Public Service Commission. This investigation is focused on PSC examinations and appointments made during the previous CPI(M)-led LDF regime in Kerala. The probe comes amidst protests from LPST candidates and issues concerning Sabarimala ghee. Satheesan stated the government will take action once the investigation report is available. Furthermore, discussions are ongoing regarding the MEDISEP health insurance scheme review. 🧐

🎬 A Shop for Killers 2: BTS looks at the intense cast

New behind-the-scenes stills have dropped for Disney+ original series “A Shop for Killers 2”. The series features Kim Hye Jun as Jeong Ji An and Lee Dong Wook as her uncle Jeong Jin Man in action drama. Season 2 follows Ji An as the new CEO fighting Babylon forces alongside Jin Man, who returns alive. The stills show the cast's immersive work and warm moments with other actors like Geum Hae Na and Jo Han Sun. All episodes are currently available for streaming on Disney+ now. 🎬

🏥 Rail travel perks for acid attack survivors coming

The Central government has agreed in principle to create a railway travel concession policy for acid attack survivors. This decision was made while a bench led by CJI Surya Kant heard a plea from the Atijeevan Society. The government proposed extending the concession under the existing 'patient category' by Thursday. The court suggested framing the benefit as part of a social welfare scheme for survivors. The Centre has been given six weeks to finalize the policy and share it with the Society. 🏥

😠 Friend used my SBI Card for EMI, now ghosting the bill

A friend allegedly used the cardholder's SBI Card on Flipkart to avail of 'No Cost EMI' benefits. This incident reportedly occurred involving the friend and the cardholder. The details suggest a dispute over the interest charges associated with the transaction. The cardholder is now confronting the friend regarding the unpaid interest amounts. Further action is expected as the cardholder seeks resolution for the financial misuse.

🧠 Kozhikode mental health institute lacks full-time director

IMHANS, a key mental healthcare center in Kerala, still lacks a full-time director following the passing of P. Krishnakumar in 2025. The institute, located in Kozhikode, functions under the Kerala Health department and handles mental healthcare for North Kerala districts. After the previous government's attempts failed, the recruitment process remains stuck despite a new state government. Staff association members have suggested T.M. Shibu Kumar for the post, citing his familiarity with the institute's work. A director is crucial for developing new schemes and spearheading research at this vital center. 🧠

📚 NCERT and CBSE face massive staff shortages

A parliamentary committee report highlighted severe staffing issues at NCERT and CBSE. NCERT currently has 1,596 vacancies out of 2,844 posts as of October 2025. CBSE is facing a 44% deficit, with 933 out of 2,117 approved positions unfilled. These shortages threaten the implementation of NEP 2020 and the quality of national board exams. The committee urged both bodies to start fast-track recruitment immediately.

⚖️ Supreme Court questions FSSAI's stance on food labeling

The Supreme Court has strongly criticized the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for refusing to mandate warning labels on foods high in fat, sugar, and salt. This ruling specifically targets the FSSAI's decision-making process regarding nutritional labeling standards. The Court questioned whether industry pressure was influencing the agency's resistance to implementing such clear health warnings. This move puts significant pressure on the regulatory body to reconsider its current guidelines for packaged food. The Court is now awaiting the FSSAI's response regarding the reasons behind its past objections. ⚖️

🕵️‍♂️ Ajay Devgn's Crime Patrol 2026 role clarified

Reports circulated claiming Ajay Devgn replaced Anup Soni as the host for Crime Patrol 2026. However, a fact-check confirmed that Devgn is joining as a Special Host for select episodes. This announcement came after the show's premiere date was set for Monday, August 31, 2026. The makers wanted Devgn due to his popularity, and he agreed despite his busy schedule. A primary host for the remaining episodes is yet to be revealed. 🕵️‍♂️

🇮🇳 What Vande Mataram's powerful lyrics actually mean

Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, celebrates India's natural beauty, abundance, and strength. The song addresses the motherland, portraying it as fertile, water-rich, and blessed with pleasant breezes. It also depicts the nation as beautiful under moonlight and adorned with flourishing flora. Furthermore, the lyrics highlight the collective strength of millions of voices and arms ready to defend the country. Ultimately, the song presents India as a nurturing mother who provides happiness and possesses immense power. 🇮🇳