⚖️ Centre reviewing caste bias rules; Sajjan Kumar passes away

The Union government is reconsidering the UGC's caste bias rules previously stayed by the Supreme Court due to vagueness. Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar, convicted in the 1984 anti-Sikh massacre cases, passed away at 80 in Delhi. His conviction was by the Delhi High Court in December 2018 for murder and promoting enmity. Additionally, journalist Tarun Tejpal's appeal against his 10-year sentence is pending in the Supreme Court. A clash also occurred between student groups at Kolkata’s Jadavpur University on Wednesday. ⚖️

🔥 Coking Coal Prices Jump 25%, Hurting Indian Steelmakers

Coking coal prices have seen a significant surge this year, negatively impacting the margins of Indian steelmakers. India depends heavily on imports, covering up to 95% of its metallurgical coal demand. Premium coking coal FOB prices in Australia rose by 25% in the first seven months compared to last year. This price hike is due to supply disruptions, the Iran war, and the deadly coal mine explosion in Shanxi province. Steelmakers face sustained high costs through the second half of the year amid ongoing supply issues. 🏭

🏏 TNP Premier League 2026: Match Predictions for Aug 21

Match 25 and Match 26 of the TNP Premier League 2026 are scheduled for August 21st at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. VIDA Kovai Kings face Dindigul Dragons in Match 25, while Trichy Grand Cholas play Chepauk Super Gillies in Match 26. The Kings are 3rd with 3 wins and 3 losses, whereas the Dragons are 7th with 2 wins and 4 losses. Trichy Grand Cholas are in 2nd place boasting 4 wins and 2 losses in the league so far. Dindigul Dragons are predicted to win Match 25, and Trichy Grand Cholas are predicted to win Match 26.

🏗️ 3D polarization method separates blast and collapse vibrations

Researchers created a 3D polarization method to separate vibration waves from tall building demolitions. This study was conducted by researchers using field data around a demolition site. The analysis involved data recorded up to a certain date to understand wave evolution. This technique helps improve hazard assessment by distinguishing between blast and collapse impacts. The findings show different wave patterns depending on whether the vibration is from blasting or collapse. 🏗️

🔬 17yo student invents pancreatic cancer blood test

US-based high school student Audrey Zheng has created a groundbreaking new blood test for pancreatic cancer detection. She developed this promising test while studying in the US. The test has shown significant accuracy, correctly identifying 87% of patients. This research offers a major step forward in early cancer screening methods. Further clinical trials will determine the test's full potential and viability.

🔬 Space Bears Thrive in Orbit for Generations

NASA sent microscopic tardigrades, known for extreme survival, to the International Space Station in June 2021. The animals, specifically Hypsibius exemplaris, were studied aboard the ISS by an international team. Over periods spanning from June 5, 2021, researchers maintained and fed them long enough to produce up to four generations. The goal was to see if these animals adopted heritable survival strategies while living in space. These findings help scientists better understand biological responses during long-duration space missions. 🔬

🚢 Middle East heats up with tanker hijacking and US carrier arrival 🚢

Tensions escalated across the Middle East after a tanker was hijacked off Yemen and a US aircraft carrier group deployed to the region. The USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group arrived in the CENTCOM area on Wednesday as part of its scheduled deployment. Meanwhile, six armed individuals took control of the tanker and redirected it towards Somalia on Thursday. Gulf states called for de-escalation over the Strait of Hormuz amidst rising oil prices. US President Donald Trump also threatened Iran with further economic pressure.

🎶 Mustafa Zahid feels honored by Awarapan 2

Pakistani musician Mustafa Zahid was moved after watching Awarapan 2 in theatres recently. The film, which features his legacy from the 2007 original, is being honored by the sequel. He shared that for 19 years, he carried his songs everywhere, seeking only dignity and due credit. Watching the opening credits, he felt he finally received the dignity and love he always asked for. He expressed hope for a possible collaboration for a future Awarapan 3. 🎬

🚨 Rajampet SI caught taking ₹30k bribe in Kamareddy

A Sub-Inspector of Police from Rajampet station was caught accepting a ₹30,000 bribe at his home on Thursday. The official, identified as Duvvala Anjaneyulu, was in Kamareddy district when the ACB caught him. The bribe was demanded for granting station bail to a son and extending favour while filing a charge sheet. He was subsequently arrested and presented before the II Additional Special Judge in Hyderabad. The ACB urges the public to report such demands using their toll-free number 1064. 🚨

🔬 Testosterone: Should You Be Taking It?

The article discusses the considerations surrounding testosterone supplementation for various health reasons. It delves into the science behind how testosterone functions in the human body. Specifics regarding dosage and potential side effects are outlined within the piece. Doctors emphasize the importance of proper medical consultation before starting any such regimen. Ultimately, the text advises readers to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

✈️ China and Turkey flights boost Pakistan defence talks

Heavy military transport aircraft conducted repeated trips to Pakistani airbases over about 60 hours. Chinese and Turkish aircraft were reportedly seen landing at Nur Khan near Rawalpindi and Masroor in Karachi. These movements occurred as Pakistan strengthens defence ties with both Beijing and Ankara. The flights allegedly involved moving military equipment, including drones and other defence matériel. This could signal an effort to boost military inventory and supply links with these key partners. ✈️