🤝 BRICS nations planning big financial upgrade 🌐

Members of the BRICS group, including India, China, Russia, South Africa, and Brazil, are discussing linking their fast payment systems and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). These talks are part of preparations for the 2026 BRICS summit, which India will host. The group aims to create a more integrated financial network to make cross-border payments efficient and affordable. Furthermore, the RBI Governor highlighted efforts to internationalize the Indian rupee through local currency use. Central banks are also addressing AI's role, viewing it as a capability to boost finance securely.

⚽ Romero heading to Atlético Madrid for €40m

Barcelona was linked with Cristian Romero after Ronald Araujo's loan move, but the deal is off. Tottenham and Atlético Madrid have agreed on a €40 million transfer for the center-back. This move allows Romero to join Spain after five seasons in London. Barça reportedly studied the deal but chose not to proceed with the transfer. Atlético can now finalize the move after Nahuel Molina's sale to AS Roma.

⚽ Barça's second bid for Rodri rejected by City

Barcelona's pursuit of Rodri has faced another roadblock as Manchester City turned down the latest offer. The Catalan club presented an improved proposal worth around €60 million for the Spanish midfielder. City, however, are reportedly demanding a package of €70 million plus add-ons. This situation is notable since Rodri is nearing the final year of his contract with the Premier League side. Barcelona's interest remains, but a significant gap persists between the two clubs' valuations. ⚽

🍎 Dengue recovery diet: what to eat & avoid 🤒

Dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, requires careful dietary management for recovery. Patients in areas like India should focus on hydration, soft foods, and adequate protein to boost immunity. WHO suggests drinking plenty of fluids like ORS and consuming easily digestible carbs such as rice and idli. Fruits, vegetables, and lentils are great, but highly oily, spicy, and sugary foods should be avoided. Patients experiencing severe symptoms need immediate medical attention instead of home remedies.

🔥 Actor tells Yash to leave Karnataka over 'Toxic' trailer

Actor Risheekaa Singh sparked a social media controversy by criticizing the intimate scenes in Yash's upcoming film, Toxic. She made these comments while addressing Yash, who stars in the Kannada production. Her remarks, including threats to make him vacate Karnataka, were made after the trailer release on August 13, 2026. The criticism comes as Toxic generates buzz for its scale and visuals, set for a multilingual release. The debate continues as the film remains a major talking point before its August 26 release.

❤️ Coimbatore company gives employee big support after dad's passing

A Coimbatore-based company received praise for its compassionate gesture towards an employee. The employer provided over four weeks of bereavement leave and covered 20% of her father's medical expenses. This support was given after the father's death last week. The company, which has over 4,000 employees and exists for 50+ years, also had its chairman personally check in on her. This incident sparked discussion about the care in family-led businesses.

🛹 Skater nails epic jump during solar eclipse

Spanish Olympic skateboarder Danny Leon performed a spectacular jump during the total solar eclipse. This action took place in cloudless cities across Spain on Wednesday. The rare celestial event, which was Spain's first in over a century, saw totality last around a minute before sunset. Leon shared the stunt, calling it "the move of his life." Authorities expected the eclipse to draw at least half a million additional visitors to the area. 🤩

💰 BofA locks in $1.9B deal for Ambani-linked shadow bank

Bank of America has successfully struck a massive $1.9 billion deal concerning a shadow bank backed by the Ambani family. This major financial transaction involves Bank of America and entities connected to the Ambani conglomerate. The deal was reportedly finalized around early 2024, although specific dates were not disclosed in the report. The investment signals significant international interest in India's burgeoning financial sector. Analysts expect this move to further solidify the regional financial landscape in the coming months. 💰

🚩 BJP denies involvement in 'purification ritual' controversy

JP Nadda stated that the BJP does not endorse such actions following a rally. The statement was made by him after Mallikarjun Kharge brought up the issue of a 'purification ritual'. This development occurred on August 13, 2026, at 11:25 IST. Kharge had raised concerns about the ritual during the event. Further updates on this ongoing situation are expected soon.

🌾 Indian Potash setting up two sugar mills in Bihar

Indian Potash Ltd is setting up and operating two sugar mills in Bihar as part of the 'Samriddh Udyog-Sashakt Bihar' initiative. This project involves locations at Sakri in Madhubani and Raiyam in Darbhanga. The setup, approved by the Cabinet, will soon commence production within a defined timeframe. These mills will also feature distilleries, cogeneration power plants, and CBG units. This move aims to boost farmer income and create local employment opportunities across the state. 🌾

🇮🇳 Vande Mataram opens Lok Sabha for the first time

Lok Sabha commenced its final Monsoon Session sitting with Vande Mataram on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi, and a full House were present in the Lower House. Six stanzas of the National Song were played before the session was adjourned sine die. This follows President Droupadi Murmu assenting to legislation protecting the National Song. The new law makes intentionally disrupting the singing a punishable offense.