🔬 CO2 from factory smoke turned into useful chemicals

Scientists have developed a new technology to convert carbon dioxide directly from factory exhaust into valuable chemicals. This breakthrough was achieved by researchers at Adelaide University, demonstrating the process on a simulated industrial flue gas. The system successfully converted CO2 into carbon monoxide with nearly complete selectivity over more than 100 hours. This method avoids energy-intensive purification steps typically required for industrial emissions. The research suggests a more practical and economical way to cut industrial carbon footprints.

⛈️ Kerala faces red alert as heavy rains loom ⛈️

Intensified rainfall is expected in flood-hit regions of Kerala over the next two days due to cyclonic circulations. The IMD issued a red alert for Pathanamthitta, Idukki, and Kottayam districts on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Additionally, an orange alert covers Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts. A yellow alert has been issued for the remaining six districts, warning of isolated heavy rains. Fishermen are advised to be vigilant because of forecast swell waves measuring 1.2-1.4 meters until Thursday night.

😔 Prayagraj venue cancels Rahul Gandhi's August 8 event

A payment of Rs 50,000 was made for an event, but the venue in Prayagraj has dropped Rahul Gandhi's scheduled August 8 appearance. The cancellation impacts the political outreach planned for the region. This decision came after the initial booking and arrangements were finalized. The event was set to be a significant gathering for the political leader. Organizers are now working to find an alternative location for the scheduled date. 😔

💖 Actor proposed at graveyard, not a beach! 🤯

A South actor proposed marriage to his then-girlfriend at a crematorium late one night. The actor, Rocking Rakesh, took Jordar Sujatha to the location to confess his feelings for her. Initially, Sujatha thought it was a joke, but Rakesh then confessed to her mother. They eventually got married on February 24, 2023, at Tirumala. The couple welcomed their daughter, Khyathika, in August 2024. Now, Sujatha is focusing on motherhood, while Rakesh continues his work.

🎓 UK study myths busted by British Council

The British Council has clarified common misconceptions about studying in the UK for prospective students. They confirmed that scholarships and financial planning can make UK education affordable, and degrees are often shorter than in other countries. Students can interact directly with 29 UK universities at events like the Study UK Open Day in Kolkata on August 6. Furthermore, graduates can use the Graduate Route to stay in the UK and seek employment post-graduation. Application fee policies vary greatly, so checking official university pages is key before applying.

💧 India's water issue is management, not rain, says Bisleri CEO

Bisleri International CEO Angelo George stated that India's water shortage is fundamentally a management crisis, not a rainfall problem. Speaking at the Mint Sustainability Summit 2026 in Mumbai, he noted per capita water availability dropped 75% over 70 years. If trends continue, major urban areas could face shortages by 2035, according to his warning. Bisleri is addressing this by expanding conservation efforts and building check dams in rural areas. The company also advocates for a water credit market to promote better resource management moving forward. 💧

🏛️ Opposition protests rage in Parliament over key ministers' absence

The Rajya Sabha sessions saw intense verbal clashes and continuous protests from the Opposition. LoP Mallikarjun Kharge voiced demands for PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to attend the House. This heated debate occurred following the initial set of questions on Thursday. Kharge argued members were raising crucial national issues and asserted his right to speak freely. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju countered by citing specific rules regarding speaking opportunities. 😤

🧪 Seaweed Hack: Cleaner for Ocean Microplastics

Scientists have engineered a novel cleaning solution inspired by the structure of tangled seaweed. This innovative material was developed by researchers at Nanowerk. The system aims to effectively capture microplastics from the ocean environment. This bio-inspired approach offers a sustainable alternative to current cleanup methods. Further testing will determine the large-scale applicability of this technology.

🍦 Edinburgh's new obsession: gelato over haggis

Edinburgh is seeing a massive rise in popularity for gelato, becoming a key food spot despite its chilly weather. This trend is being fueled by the local dairy richness and a growing demand for artisanal quality from locals and tourists. The city saw 5 million overnight visitors in 2024, boosting businesses like Amorino, which is adding more locations. Gelato's rise aligns with a 'Slow Food' philosophy, prioritizing natural ingredients over mass production. Future plans include more gelato shops expanding in the city as the demand continues to climb. 🍦

🏏 Cricket fan reaction to Arshdeep Singh's XI

Former cricketer Sadagoppan Ramesh called fast bowler Arshdeep Singh smart despite fan backlash over his All-Time India XI selection. Arshdeep chose current head coach Gautam Gambhir as an opener over legends like Sourav Ganguly and Virender Sehwag. This decision, along with Rohit Sharma at No. 6 and excluding Jasprit Bumrah from the top five bowlers, drew heavy criticism. Ramesh suggested Gambhir's coaching role might have influenced Arshdeep's pick over Ganguly or Sehwag. Gambhir, meanwhile, sent a strong message to the team before the Sri Lanka Test series starting August 15. 🏏

⛽ Alternative fuels closing in on petrol in India ⛽

Alternative fuels are rapidly catching up to petrol in India's passenger vehicle market, according to FADA's July 2026 data. Alternative-fuel vehicles accounted for 40.59% of PV retails, just 1.09 percentage points behind petrol's 41.68% share in July. This significant shift follows a period where the gap was 13.21 percentage points a year prior. CNG led the alternative basket at 24.67%, with hybrids and EVs following closely. Dealers are optimistic about growth continuing over the next three months, August to October.