👮 Bengal forms dedicated anti-terror and anti-narcotics forces

The West Bengal Cabinet approved the creation of a dedicated Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and an Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) on Thursday. These forces will operate under state police to tackle terrorism and drug trade in the state. The government sanctioned 461 regular posts for ATS, and 591 new posts for ANTF across four new stations. This move addresses concerns over organised crime and the increasing use of digital networks by criminal groups. The Adhikari government is expected to start recruitment and infrastructure development soon. 🚨

🦠 Oldest life signs found in Indian rock 🤯

Evidence of Earth's oldest life has been discovered in a layered rock sample from eastern India. The samples were collected from the Singhbhum geological block, preserving cellular remains trapped between layers of volcanic ash. Dating indicates the biological matter is from 3.497 billion years ago, belonging to the paleoarcane era. Scientists confirmed photosynthetic processes and complex metabolic pathways in the ancient microorganisms. This discovery is considered the oldest directly dated rock with a confirmed biosignature on Earth.

🔬 Super thin carbon film could shrink microchips further

Researchers found that atomically thin amorphous carbon films offer unique electrical and mechanical properties for tiny electronics. This material was developed in a recent study published in Nature Electronics by the research team. The films measured between 0.8 and 2.7 nm thick and maintained a dielectric constant of 1.35. This helps address limitations in current low-k dielectrics needed for scaling CMOS technology. Future applications could involve extending integrated circuit scaling and supporting complex 3D transistor designs. 🔬

🛡️ Kuwait Prepares for Potential Conflict with Iran

Kuwait is reportedly bracing for potential conflict on the front lines of the ongoing Iran war. The nation is strengthening its defenses in anticipation of regional tensions escalating. Specific figures or dates regarding mobilization were not released in the initial report. This proactive stance reflects the volatile geopolitical situation in the Middle East. The government is reportedly reviewing defense strategies to maintain stability. 🛡️

😥 Kerala's differently-abled kids suffer from stalled education funds

Over ₹116 crore meant for inclusive education was withheld for the 2025-26 financial year, with more needed for 2026-27. Families like Krishnan's struggle to afford necessary medicines and transport without previous travel allowances. Nine-year-old Anand misses school weekly due to financial constraints and lack of essential aids. SSK staff state this fund shortage disrupts vital therapies and assistive device distribution. They hope the pending funds are sanctioned soon to stop the children's suffering. 😔

🧐 US-NK Talks: Denuclearization Off the Table

A foreign policy expert stated that denuclearization can no longer be a key agenda point for talks between the US and North Korea. This opinion comes from the analysis of a prominent foreign policy expert. The expert emphasized this stance during recent discussions regarding US-NK diplomacy. The current geopolitical climate makes the previous focus on denuclearization unrealistic for now. Future talks will likely need to pivot to other strategic areas to move forward. 🧐

📰 US military paper publisher steps down amid Pentagon clash

Max D. Lederer Jr. has retired as the publisher of Stars and Stripes, the US military's independent newspaper. He held the role since 2007 at the paper, which operates under the Department of Defense. His departure comes amid growing differences with the Pentagon over editorial independence and coverage. Lederer cited fundamental differences between his leadership philosophy and the Defense Department's plans for the organization. This follows the firing of the newspaper's ombudsman just four months prior. 🫡

🏛️ Supreme Court rules: Police can't investigate sex determination cases

The Supreme Court has ruled that police cannot investigate offences under the PCPNDT Act. This decision followed a case where a doctor was booked by Uttar Pradesh police in 2017 for illegal sex determination. The High Court previously observed in 2024 that the Act is a complete code, meaning only an 'appropriate authority' can handle investigations. The Supreme Court agreed with this view but has remanded the matter back to the High Court for further decisions. A detailed copy of the judgment is currently awaited. ⚖️

🏡 Varun Dhawan buys a farm for chai sessions

Actor Varun Dhawan revealed on Instagram that he gifted himself a farm, or 'khet'. This new property is located in an undisclosed area where he can enjoy outdoor moments. The acquisition was described by Dhawan as the 'biggest achievement' of his life. He shared clips of himself relaxing with chai and biscuits while appreciating the weather. This farm purchase highlights his enjoyment of simple moments amidst nature. 🌿

🛑 Census training paused due to NRC protests in Manipur

The Census 2027 training programme in Imphal West has been postponed amid ongoing protests. This action follows a 48-hour general strike by the JFD in Manipur on August 19, 2026. The training, originally set for August 20, 2026, was deferred due to the volatile law and order situation. Protesters are demanding the National Register of Citizens (NRC) be updated before the census takes place. Furthermore, the Manipur government announced all educational institutes would close for three days starting August 20.

😠 Kharge upset by silence on Haldwani 'purification' row

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his hurt over the silence of some Congress leaders regarding the 'purification' ritual in Haldwani, Uttarakhand. The incident occurred after Kharge visited the area, where a 'shuddhikaran havan' took place. Kharge highlighted that the ritual reflected a casteist mindset, demanding an arrest under the Untouchability Act. Union Minister J P Nadda responded by stating no BJP member was involved and promising an inquiry. Kharge remained unconvinced by assurances, feeling humiliated by the event.