⚡ APSPDCL rolls out easy bulk electricity payments

Andhra Pradesh Southern Power Distribution Company Limited launched a new streamlined payment system for bulk electricity consumers. This system is available on their website for customers managing multiple service connections under one name. Previously, entities like the TTD and mobile towers had to pay each bill separately, which was quite tedious. The new platform offers a single login, allowing consumers to register and pay all their bills simultaneously with one click. APSPDCL aims to simplify processes and expand its digital services further.

📱 Police return 300 stolen phones in Cuddalore

Cuddalore district police successfully recovered 300 mobile phones reported missing or stolen. Superintendent of Police Vivekananda Shukla handed these recovered devices back to their rightful owners at the District Police Office on Wednesday. These cases were registered across various police stations following owner complaints. Cybercrime police tracked the phones using their IMEI numbers to make the recovery possible. Citizens are advised to use CEIR or local police to report losses and to avoid sharing bank details with fraudsters. 📱

🦠 Ebola outbreak in Congo hits dangerous levels

An Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo is escalating, with the WHO warning it could be the deadliest epidemic in history. The disease has spread to a sixth province, Bas-Uele, after a death was reported there on August 13. Current figures show over 4,500 infections and 2,100 deaths since the official declaration on May 15. Control is difficult due to healthcare worker strikes and the virus spreading outside monitored contacts. Health officials are racing against the virus as it moves faster than the response. 🦠

🛡️ Trump slaps 100% tariff on certain drones

Trump has decided to impose a 100% tariff on specific unmanned aircraft systems and their components. This action follows a report from the Secretary of Commerce regarding the national security impact of these imports. The decision was based on an investigation conducted under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The policy ties the nation's economic welfare closely to its national security concerns. This move signals a significant shift in US trade regulations for drone technology. 🛡️

🔋 India ramps up critical mineral processing parks

The Indian government plans to set up four critical mineral processing parks in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. These parks will initially focus on building domestic capacity for lithium and nickel. The total National Critical Mineral Mission has an outlay of Rs 34,300 crore over seven years. This push aims to achieve self-reliance in minerals vital for green energy transition. State governments will lead implementation while the Centre provides technical support.

😔 Rising golfer Jessica Bang passes away at 18

Australian golfer Jessica Bang tragically passed away at the age of 18 after suffering a severe brain hemorrhage. She was in Bangkok, Thailand, while competing in the KLPGA Tour’s International Qualifying Tournament. Bang collapsed on August 1 and subsequently died on August 13, according to her cousins. She was preparing to start her rookie season with the WPGA/KLPGA when the medical emergency occurred. Her family established a GoFundMe to help cover medical expenses for her parents. 😔

⚖️ BCI lifts ban on NALSAR 2026 batch advocates

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has reversed its ban on NALSAR University of Law's 2026 graduates enrolling as advocates. This decision followed widespread criticism regarding the initial controversial circular issued by the regulator. The BCI stated that the vast majority of the 2026 students are innocent and were not disrespectful. The ban was originally imposed after students objected to inviting CJI Surya Kant to the convocation ceremony. Now, these graduates are entitled to seek enrolment with any state bar council they choose. ⚖️

📱 Revanna shifted to general cell after jail raid 🚨

Prajwal Revanna has been moved from his VIP cell to a general ward at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail following a prison raid. The Central Crime Branch (CCB) found a mobile phone and pen drive containing around 90 pornographic videos during the search. Revanna, who is serving a life sentence for a rape case, will now share facilities with about 20 other inmates. This recovery has started an investigation into how these prohibited devices entered the high-security prison. DGP Alok Kumar ordered a probe to determine staff involvement and the entry of the banned tech.

✨ Instagram drops fresh wordmark

Instagram rolled out a redesigned wordmark, which is the text-only version of the company's logo. This update was announced by Adam Mosseri on both Instagram and Threads. The change took place on Thursday, August 13, 2026, after the old logo felt dated. The new design features cursive-like curves in the letters while maintaining simplicity. Meta has not yet commented on potential future design changes to the platform. 🧐

🗺️ Experts say border hype risks India-China ties

Chinese experts are dismissing the recent hype around border issues between China and India. This sentiment comes despite regional political claims alleging patrols were blocked near Taxin in Southwest China. Official sources confirmed that the border situation remains generally stable, referencing previous discussions. Experts caution against sensationalizing these claims, which could derail ongoing bilateral cooperation. Both nations are urged to manage the boundary question without letting it dominate their larger relationship. 🤝

🏈 Maxx Crosby's rank sparks Cowboys trade talk

Maxx Crosby was ranked No. 24 on the NFL Top 100 for 2026, according to the league's announcement on Thursday. He plays for the Las Vegas Raiders, and this is his fifth consecutive appearance on the player-voted list. His 2025 stats included 10 sacks and 28 tackles for loss, despite missing two games. Although a trade to the Baltimore Ravens collapsed in March, the Cowboys are now mentioned again as a possible destination. This ranking shows his continued high value, potentially influencing future trade moves. 🏈