🧐 Ethanol push linked to sugar price rise? Govt denies

The government has denied that the push for ethanol is responsible for the increase in sugar prices. Officials stated that the hike is primarily due to hoarding practices and high demand during the festive season. This situation is being monitored closely by relevant agricultural bodies. The government is investigating the hoarding allegations across various states. Further updates on the price stabilization measures are expected soon. 🧐

🛶 Recycled plastic swing bridge lands in English town

A six-metre swing bridge, named Bushey Fox Bridge, has been installed at Wichelstowe in Swindon. This structure, part of a larger canal restoration, incorporates material equivalent to 140 recycled plastic bottles per square metre. The installation was officially noted on Monday, 13 July 2026, marking progress on a new 600-metre waterway stretch. The bridge allows pedestrians to cross while manually swinging open for boats, fitting into the region's urban plan. Future earthworks will proceed as weather conditions allow before the anticipated winter filling. 🛶

🏔️ Dad leaves tired 7-year-old on Mount Fuji

A Japanese father abandoned his tired seven-year-old son at about 2,490 meters on Mount Fuji. This incident took place on the Fujinomiya trail, where the boy was left alone around 7:30 am. The father, 48, proceeded to the summit with his older son instead of pausing the hike. A mountain hut worker spotted the boy and alerted the police when heavy rain started. Authorities warned the father, who later regretted the rash decision. 😟

🚨 Delhi Police to file FIR over protest pellet injuries

Delhi Police confirmed they will register an FIR regarding pellet injuries sustained by a youth during the July 20 protest. This action follows a dharna staged by Rahul Gandhi at the Parliament Street police station in New Delhi. The incident involved 19-year-old Sahil Lochab during the CJP-led protest held at Jantar Mantar. Gandhi and Lochab initially approached the Mandir Marg police station before escalating to Parliament Street. This move is in response to demands for accountability concerning the injuries.

🏏 CDK vs WDL: Delhi Premier League Match 37 preview

The Delhi Premier League 2026 features Match 37 between Central Delhi Kings and West Delhi Lions on August 22nd at Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. Central Delhi Kings currently hold the 1st spot with 8 wins, while West Delhi Lions are 5th with 4 wins and 4 losses. The stadium averages 183 for the first innings and 175 for the second innings in the DPL. Central Delhi Kings are predicted to win the toss and the match itself. Key players include Yash Dhull for CDK and Ayush Doseja for WDL. 🏏

😠 K. Surendran alleges UDF govt influenced by extremists

BJP national secretary K. Surendran claimed the UDF government in Kerala is operating under the influence of extremist ideologues. He asserted that external forces are pressuring the government's decision-making at various levels across the state. Specifically, he cited the delay in implementing the PM SHRI project as evidence, noting other Congress states have done so. Surendran also alleged opposition to central schemes, pointing to the non-rendition of 'Vande Mataram' at Independence Day functions. He further contrasted the current UDF administration with the LDF, especially regarding the Exalogic case revelations.

⚖️ Turkey issues warrant for Netanyahu over Gaza aid

Turkey has issued an international arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This action is connected to an investigation into Israel's interception of an aid flotilla heading to Gaza. The warrants have also been issued against Netanyahu and other top officials. These legal moves stem from concerns regarding Israel's actions during the ongoing Gaza war. Further developments are expected as this international investigation proceeds.

🤖 Robot nearly breaks during 'Robot Olympics' training

A humanoid robot crashed into a cushioned wall during a training sprint in Beijing, causing sparks to fly from its damaged frame. This incident occurred while preparing for the five-day World Humanoid Robot Games, dubbed the "Robot Olympics." Almost 2,056 machines from 666 teams across 16 countries are set to compete starting August 22. These events test machines under demanding conditions, exposing weaknesses in perception and control. Developers will use these crashes to gather data for improving robots before real-world deployment. 🤖

🎓 DU opens direct PhD route after 4-year UG

Delhi University has launched a direct PhD pathway for students finishing its four-year undergraduate programme (FYUP). This special measure applies to the first batch graduating in 2026 for the 2026-27 academic session. Eligible students need a minimum 7.5 CGPA, or 7 CGPA for SC/ST candidates. The provision aligns the fourth-year curriculum with PhD requirements, removing the mandatory Master's degree. This aims to integrate research into undergraduate education and meet global standards. 🚀

🚫 Centre denies Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance

The Centre denied political clearance for Telangana CM Revanth Reddy’s proposed trip to the United States. The ministry stated that the planned program for the US visit was deemed not appropriate for his office and purpose. This decision was made on Friday, August 21, 2026, by the government body. Meanwhile, the Centre confirmed that Reddy's planned visit to the United Kingdom had received the necessary political clearance. The government noted that such visits are always assessed to align with the dignitary's role. 🧐

⚓ 22 Indians on board two tankers hijacked by pirates

Two commercial vessels carrying 22 Indian crew members were hijacked by armed pirates in separate incidents this week. The Eritrea-flagged MT Sibu 1 was seized off Yemen on August 20, while the Cameroon-flagged M/V LUTUF was hijacked off Somalia's Puntland coast on August 17. The MT Sibu 1 had 16 Indians among 20 crew, and M/V LUTUF had six Indians among 10. Both vessels remain under pirate control, and no injuries have been reported so far. The hijackers are suspected of involvement in prior incidents and steered one tanker towards Somalia's Nugaal coast. 🚢