😟 Delhi school cancels JNU talk after VHP protest

An Independence Day event at Sardar Patel Vidyalaya was cancelled on Friday because of security concerns. Jawaharlal Nehru University professor emerita Zoya Hasan was scheduled to speak on 'Pluralism' at the Delhi school. The cancellation followed a protest by Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) members outside the campus that morning. Prof. Hasan had been receiving hateful social media comments and threats for two days leading up to the event. Subsequently, police were deployed but confirmed the school cancelled the event due to safety threats. 😟

🏢 Pirojsha Godrej takes helm at Godrej Industries

Pirojsha Godrej has been appointed as the new Executive Chairperson of Godrej Industries, effective August 14, 2026. He will succeed Nadir Godrej, who is retiring after reaching the age of 75. This transition follows the April 2024 family realignment that separated the group into two entities. Under Pirojsha’s guidance, the group has shown over 20% compounded annual growth in sales and net profits leading up to FY26. He will now oversee strategic growth across businesses spanning real estate and consumer products. 🚀

😟 Measles cases surge, four children pass away

Four more children have unfortunately died showing measles-like symptoms across the country in the last 24 hours. The Directorate General of Health Services reported 972 new cases exhibiting measles symptoms during this same period. From March 15 to August 14, a total of 141,048 people have been reported with measles symptoms nationwide. Laboratory tests have confirmed measles in 17,730 cases, with 187 new confirmed infections recently recorded. Health authorities are maintaining surveillance, testing, and treatment efforts across the nation. 😟

🏥 India planning big health insurance overhaul

India is planning major reforms for health insurance to boost transparency and cut medical costs. Regulators, insurers, and hospitals are discussing standardized rates and common insurance products across the nation. Industry estimates point to medical inflation hovering between 12% and 14% annually. These changes aim to reduce disputes and help increase health coverage, which is currently under 4% of GDP. A panel, chaired by IRDAI chief, is set to submit its recommendations by the end of the year. 🏥

🏛️ DMK set to boost district units past 100

The DMK leadership plans a major organizational overhaul, aiming to increase district units to over 100. This expansion will include appointing dedicated district secretaries for these newly formed units. Currently, the party operates with 79 district units across its structure. An interim report from M.K. Stalin's committee details these changes, emphasizing fresh energy. The executive committee is set to discuss these recommendations on August 22, 2026. 🚀

🧤 De Silva on Dickwella selection in Galle

De Silva commented on the selection of Dickwella during a recent match in Galle. He stated that the team prioritizes players who demonstrate the best glovework. This selection decision was part of the team's strategy for the ongoing series. Such choices reflect the importance of fielding skills in modern cricket. The team will continue to evaluate player performance going forward.

🏏 De Silva: Best glovework wins over batting average

Dhananjaya de Silva defended the selection of Niroshan Dickwella for the upcoming Test against India. He stated that Dickwella's exceptional glovework was the deciding factor for his recall to the squad. This decision comes as Dickwella faces scrutiny over his batting average of 31 after 96 Test innings. De Silva emphasized that the best keeper must play, especially at Galle where the pitch is expected to be flatter. All selectors agreed on this choice despite other players being considered. 🏏

🧑‍🚀 How to become an astronaut: multiple career paths

Astronauts train in facilities that replicate the Moon's surface, with some experiencing zero G parabolic flights. Various career routes exist, including STEM, multidisciplinary, and super-specialist paths. For instance, Thomas Pesquet was an aerospace engineer and pilot before becoming a candidate in 2009. The multidisciplinary route features individuals like David Saint-Jacques, who studied biomedical engineering and astrophysics. Ultimately, a strong foundation in math and science, alongside hobbies, is key for future space careers. 🚀

😵 Friend tries to save man, gets stuck too in chair

A bizarre incident occurred at a hospital in China when one man got his head stuck in a chair's handle. His friend attempted a rescue, trying to demonstrate how the head got stuck in a nearby chair. This well-intentioned act resulted in the friend also becoming trapped in a chair handle. The entire comical episode was captured on camera and quickly went viral on social media. Netizens reacted with humor and confusion regarding the whole situation.

🏍️ Bajaj bringing TFT screens to all Pulsar models in India

Bajaj is planning to introduce TFT screens across its entire Pulsar lineup in the Indian market. This upgrade targets the diverse range of Pulsar models manufactured in India. The rollout is expected to happen in the coming months, though specific dates are not yet announced. This move aims to make advanced digital displays accessible to a wider customer base. Bajaj is focusing on democratizing technology to boost sales across its sporty bike range.

🚨 Attacks on Indians abroad jump sevenfold in five years

Attacks on Indians living abroad have seen a nearly sevenfold surge over the last five years, according to the Foreign Ministry. The majority of these incidents were reported in the US, UAE, UK, and Canada across 36 countries. Between 2021 and 2025, a total of 302 attacks were recorded, escalating from 15 in 2021 to 104 in 2025. This rise highlights the increasing security concerns for Indian nationals globally. New Delhi has stated that the safety of Indians abroad remains their highest priority. 🇮🇳