🔭 Fastest Star Near Black Hole Spotted in Milky Way

Scientists have discovered the fastest-spinning star orbiting a black hole within the Milky Way galaxy. This incredible object was observed by astronomers in various deep space telescopes. The star completes a full rotation in just 9.5 minutes around the massive gravitational pull. This finding significantly helps astrophysicists understand extreme environments near supermassive black holes. Future observations will continue to provide more data on stellar dynamics in these cosmic zones.

🏑 India's next matches in Hockey World Cup 2026

The Indian Women's Hockey team advanced to the second round of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026. Led by Salima Tete, the side secured progression after drawing goalless with England on Thursday. In the second round, India is placed in Pool E to qualify for the semifinals. They will face the Netherlands on Friday, August 21 at 9:30pm IST. Subsequently, India is scheduled to play Australia on Sunday, August 23 at 10:30pm IST. 🇮🇳

🏏 Somerset dominates day one against Essex

Somerset posted a massive 348 for 5 against Essex during the Rothesay County Championship First Division match in Taunton. Josh Thomas scored an impressive 110, supported by new signing Henry Nicholls who made 96 on his debut. This huge partnership helped Somerset build a strong position on the opening day. Essex bowlers Sam Cook and Shane Snater struggled against the strong batting lineup. Somerset looks set for a dominant run in this title chase. 🏏

🇧🇩 BNP's Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir elected as new President

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has been elected as the new President of Bangladesh. This election took place with BNP representing the party's leadership in the country. The details of the election are not provided in the source material. This outcome marks a significant change in the political landscape of Bangladesh. Further developments regarding his tenure are awaited. 🇧🇩

🏞️ New Mexico brings back native trout to 120 miles of streams

A massive conservation effort has successfully restored Rio Grande cutthroat trout to over 120 miles of streams in New Mexico. This project involved state and federal agencies across northern New Mexico and southern Colorado. The work spanned more than two decades, starting in 2002 and culminating in 2014. Habitat loss and non-native fish severely reduced the trout's population in the Rio Grande basin. Now, the restored network provides a sustainable future for the native species. 🎣

📉 US College Foreign Student Applications Dropped 10%

The number of foreign students applying to US colleges has decreased by 10% this year. This trend was observed across various institutions in the United States. Data indicates a drop from 2022 figures, showing a noticeable shift in international enrollment. Factors like global economic uncertainty and visa changes are thought to be contributing to this decline. Universities are now analyzing these trends to adjust their international recruitment strategies. 📉

🔬 New Study Compares Wound Treatments

A randomized controlled trial compared Edinburgh University Solution of Lime (EUSOL) against Platelet-Derived Growth Factor dressing. This research was conducted to evaluate treatment efficacy for Grade II Wagner Diabetic Foot Ulcers. The study involved comparing the two treatments over a specific trial period. The goal was to see which dressing was better for wound contraction in diabetic patients. Further analysis will determine the most effective protocol moving forward.

🌆 Delhi's 2047 Master Plan Drops: 40 Lakh Homes Coming

Delhi's Master Plan 2047 has officially been notified, aiming for over 40 lakh new homes across the city. This massive plan focuses on making the capital more liveable for its growing population in Delhi. By 2047, the city anticipates needing more than 40 lakh additional homes, supported by redevelopment and TOD zones. The plan also features a unified parking framework and envisions Metro and buses operating 24x7. Vertical development is now encouraged, with height restrictions being lifted in many areas. 🏙️

🍬 Govt opens door for 10 lakh tonnes of sugar imports

The central government has approved the import of 10 lakh tonnes of duty-free sugar. This decision affects sugar imports across the country. The allowance is valid until October 31, 2024. This move is aimed at stabilizing the domestic sugar market amid fluctuating prices. Further details on implementation are expected in the coming weeks.

😟 Congress asks to delay Manipur Census 2027

The Congress party has called for postponing the Census exercise in Manipur due to ongoing violence and mass displacement. Inner Manipur MP A. Bimol Akoijam raised this issue on Thursday, August 20, 2026. Since May 3, 2023, nearly 60,000 people remain homeless, and over 10,000 houses have been destroyed. The party wants the National Register of Citizens (NRC) process completed before the fresh enumeration happens. Congress has also requested Foreigners Tribunals to resolve population questions. 😟

🧐 Opposition slams NCERT over RSS links in textbook team

Opposition parties and student groups accused the government of pushing the RSS agenda onto school education via NCERT textbooks. The controversy centers on a 16-member team for political science, which includes individuals linked to the Sangh and its affiliates in classes 11 and 12. This development occurred on Thursday, August 20, 2026, as the NCERT reconstituted the team with a focus on 'cultural rootedness'. Critics argue this process has been ongoing for 12 years under the current administration. They are demanding the textbook development remains academically rigorous and politically independent. 📚