🏛️ Centre tells SC to let Parliament decide SC/ST 'creamy layer'

The Centre has opposed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) asking for a creamy layer concept for SC/STs. This submission was made to the Supreme Court regarding guidelines for income-based sub-quotas in reserved categories. The government stated that any such modification requires a holistic review and empirical study before implementation. The Centre urged the Supreme Court to refrain from issuing orders, as policy decisions fall under Parliament's jurisdiction. Furthermore, it clarified that the creamy layer principle is not applicable to SCs and STs, unlike in OBC reservations.

🦖 Why were there no mouse-sized dinosaurs?

New research suggests early mammals might have blocked the evolution of tiny dinosaurs. Scientists used mathematical models to study body size evolution across vertebrates. This finding was published in the journal Evolution, noting that small mammals filled available ecological niches. Small-bodied early mammals likely outcompeted dinosaurs, preventing them from evolving into smaller sizes. This dynamic only shifted after the asteroid impact 66 million years ago. 🦕

🦋 Tiny dragonfly flies world's longest migration

Scientists have confirmed the globe skimmer dragonfly, Pantala flavescens, as the world's longest-distance flyer. Researchers from Rutgers University-Newark analyzed dragonflies collected across locations including Texas, Japan, and India. The study showed these insects maintain a single worldwide gene pool, traveling distances estimated at around 4,400 miles or more. This migration is crucial for reproduction, as they seek out fresh water in changing weather patterns. Future research aims to map these incredible routes using new tracking methods. 🦋

⛏️ Mining upgrade: SCCL visits US for tech boost ⛏️

A high-level delegation led by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka toured Caterpillar and Komatsu facilities in Texas and Arizona. The team, including senior officials from SCCL and GMMCO Ltd, visited these manufacturing centres on Thursday. This trip comes as Singareni acquired two major coal blocks, adding over 360 million tonnes of reserves. The focus is on modernizing operations, improving worker safety through remote control tech, and planning future equipment needs. This initiative supports SCCL's goal of hitting 100 million tonnes of annual coal production.

😥 Houthi attacks claim 30+ Yemeni soldiers' lives

Houthi forces conducted attacks resulting in the deaths of at least 30 Yemeni government troops. These casualties occurred in Yemen, according to reports. The figures reflect the ongoing conflict developments as of the latest reports. The attacks are part of the sustained military action in the region. Further updates on the situation in Yemen are anticipated soon. 😥

🚑 Probe launched over rescuer's body transport

An inquiry has been ordered into the handling of R. Rajesh's body after his death during a rescue operation. This incident took place in Kariyangode river at Meenthulli, near Cherupuzha, involving the deceased volunteer from Thiruvananthapuram. The body was allegedly transported from Kannur Government Medical College Hospital without a freezer unit, specifically on August 6, 2026. This negligence arose after Rajesh sacrificed his life saving someone from the swollen river. The Special Branch has also started an investigation into the matter. 😟

🏭 BirlaNu eyeing ₹167 Cr fibre cement plant in Telangana

BirlaNu is planning to set up a new fibre cement board plant as part of its expansion strategy. This facility will be located in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The project involves an estimated investment of ₹167 crore and aims for a production capacity of 72,000 tonnes per annum. This expansion will help scale operations and enhance market accessibility for premium products. The company intends to finance this growth using internal accruals and borrowings.

🚦 AP Cabinet greenlights Pedestrian Safety Policy

The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet approved the Pedestrian Safety and Universal Accessibility Policy-2026 on Thursday. This decision was made by the cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, for the state. The policy mandates scientific road safety audits and encroachment-free footpaths. It aims to introduce stricter accountability measures across urban areas. This move is part of broader governance and infrastructure upgrades in the state. 🚶

✨ Sai Pallavi's Real Talk on Acne and Beauty

Sai Pallavi is celebrated for her authentic confidence, despite past struggles with acne and her appearance. Instead of concealing what she perceived as flaws, she gradually started embracing these aspects of herself. This choice to prioritize authenticity over perfection has made her a strong advocate for self-love and skin positivity. Her journey emphasizes that real beauty comes from accepting oneself bravely, not from flawless skin. This personal narrative extends far beyond her achievements in cinema. 💖

⚛️ IU physicists boost world's biggest particle accelerator

Indiana University physicists are upgrading the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva, Switzerland. Hal Evans is the deputy project manager overseeing the US $300 million share of this upgrade. The accelerator shut down in July and will remain offline for about three and a half years. This massive enhancement aims to produce tenfold more data, helping explore dark matter and dark energy. If on track, data collection will resume in summer 2030 for Run Four.

💉 New Fridge-Free Vaccine Could Reach Millions

A new tetanus-diphtheria vaccine has shown significant promise in global health efforts. Researchers are testing this vaccine with populations in various regions around the world. Clinical trials are tracking efficacy across different age groups and geographical locations. This development is crucial because it bypasses the need for continuous refrigeration during transport. If successful, this vaccine could massively improve immunization access in remote areas. 💉