💻 Epic Games eyeing native Linux launcher soon

Epic Games has confirmed plans to develop a native Linux version of its storefront launcher. This development is being considered by Epic Games, specifically for the Linux user base. The confirmation surfaced on August 13th through a community Discord discussion. This new launcher framework aims to support more platforms and improve performance over the current version. Gamers might eventually use this to lessen dependence on third-party tools like the Heroic Launcher.

🐅 Tiger chase in Nagarhole during monsoon season

A recent monsoon safari trip took place in the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve near Bengaluru. The expedition involved a group touring the reserve, which is home to 149 tigers. Safaris resumed after a temporary government ban, making this the first promising monsoon season. The land safari was thrilling but did not yield any tiger sightings, though pugmarks were seen. A subsequent boat safari offered views of otters and crocodiles, while the region's biodiversity was explored on a nature walk. 🐅

🚆 Mumbai AC local trains coming by 2027

Mumbai's suburban railway network is set to receive its first batch of new AC local train rakes by 2027, according to CM Devendra Fadnavis. This announcement was made by Fadnavis at an MMRDA project inauguration on August 13, 2026, in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The Centre has decided to produce 238 new rakes in three coach factories, with all being ready by 2029. The goal is to provide metro train-level smooth services across the suburban network for Mumbaikars. Furthermore, various infrastructure projects were inaugurated to ease travel across the city.

📊 Census 2027 adding caste, COVID, and ID questions

The Union Government notified 40 questions for the Population Census 2027, which will now include caste details. This exercise, being the first to enumerate caste in Independent India outside ST/SC, is being done across the country. The second phase starts on August 17 in Ladakh and J&K, with the rest following in February 2027. New data points cover Aadhaar, mobile numbers, bank accounts, and COVID-19 vaccination status. Officials will gather extensive demographic and economic information from every resident.

⚖️ Chief Justice steps in against Bar Council order

Chief Justice Surya Kant Mishra challenged the Bar Council of India's directive against enrolling NALSAR University of Hyderabad graduates. This order was issued by the BCI following a student campaign opposing the Chief Justice's participation in the university's convocation. The BCI had initially halted the enrolment of 2026 graduates pending an inquiry into the protests. The Chief Justice asserted that this was a matter between himself and the students, not the BCI's concern. The Supreme Court has since asked the BCI not to take punitive action against the students or faculty.

🧐 Farage wins by-election, but finance questions linger

Nigel Farage secured a convincing victory in the Clacton by-election, which he himself triggered for political reasons. The win occurred in the constituency of Clacton, after main opposition parties chose not to field candidates. The result was 22,239 votes, taking place in the context of his political ambitions. Critics argue he was dodging scrutiny regarding his finances, especially a £5m gift. The ongoing investigations into his donations and conduct are expected to continue for months. 🧐

🏛️ Kerala Police Restores Sub-Inspector Led SHO Model

The Kerala government has revamped the Station House Officer (SHO) system across the state's police stations. Sub-Inspector-led models are being reinstated in most regular stations, while Inspectors will remain SHOs in 63 strategically important locations. This shift follows a panel review which found the Sub-Inspector structure more effective for better oversight and grievance redressal. Over 203 surplus Inspector posts will now be moved to specialized units like Cyber Police in Kochi and Kozhikode. A two-month transition period has been set for training and infrastructure changes to ensure a smooth rollout.

🤯 Bengaluru parking rules draft shockers revealed

Bengaluru might be overhauling its parking system with new draft rules for 2026. These rules propose annual permits for residents parking on public roads outside their homes in the Greater Bengaluru Area. Costs range from ₹15,000 for small cars up to ₹25,000 for SUVs, plus admin fees. The aim is to regulate public road space and curb long-term roadside parking. The Karnataka government is currently inviting objections before finalizing these changes. 🚗

🛂 US targets birth tourism: 600+ visas cancelled

The US government has intensified its crackdown on birth tourism, leading to the revocation of over 600 visas. This action was taken against individuals and families associated with the practice in the United States. The revoked visas pertain to various cases identified over the last few months. This move aims to curb illegal immigration practices within the country's borders. Indians planning to travel for this purpose need to be aware of these new stricter guidelines. 🛂

📚 Bihar's Kushal Yuva scheme extended till 2031

The Bihar government has extended the Kushal Yuva Programme for an additional five years until 2030-31. This initiative is for young people in Bihar, with ₹430.08 crore allocated for the 2026-27 financial year. The curriculum will be updated to include modern skills like AI and drone technology. The scheme currently runs through 6,436 training centers, aiming to train 2.57 lakh youths yearly. Eligible applicants are aged 15 to 28, with relaxed limits for specific categories.

📉 Aluminium stocks dip as production ramps up 📉

Shares of Vedanta Aluminium, Hindalco, and NALCO tumbled up to 7% on Friday after aluminium prices retreated from a seven-week high. This dip followed Norsk Hydro increasing production at its Brazilian refinery, Alunorte, after ANP approval. The benchmark aluminium on the London Metal Exchange fell 1.6% to settle at $3,285.50 a tonne. This rise in alumina supply counters previous concerns over shortages from Middle East disruptions. Analysts still see a structural bull cycle for aluminium supported by strong demand.