🏛️ FCRA bill sparks debate over NGO funding rules

The government is trying to build consensus on referring the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. This bill faces pushback from opposition parties and civil society groups due to provisions they deem draconian. Key concerns include empowering a designated authority to manage assets of NGOs whose licenses are cancelled. The bill also extends liability from direct managers to directors and trustees, while reducing the maximum jail term for violations. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs states the amendments aim for a comprehensive statutory framework for foreign contributions. 🏛️

📱 Lava Agni 4N gets best UK look reveal

Indian handset maker Lava is preparing its UK launch with the Agni 4N smartphone. Lava UK shared an image on X showcasing the device's rear design, which mirrors the Agni 4 from India. While front specs are unconfirmed, the brand confirmed a metal design for this phone. Lava has been criticizing Samsung over similar designs and slow performance in recent times. More official details regarding the Agni 4N are expected soon.

🔥 Student Protests Heat Up in Jharkhand; TN Passes NEET Resolution

ABVP workers were detained after clashes with police during a march to the Jharkhand Assembly. The protest was against the use of lathis and tear gas on students during a prior demonstration over government job exam irregularities. The Tamil Nadu Assembly unanimously passed a resolution asking the Union government to abolish the NEET exam. This resolution also requested the Centre permit state admission based on Class 12 marks for medical colleges. Chief Minister Hemant Soren stated he would address the students' demands with seriousness and sensitivity. 🧑‍⚖️

🏏 Marco's twin brother gets SA call-up

Duan Jansen has secured his first senior call-up for the upcoming Namibia tour. He is part of a 15-member squad led by Bjorn Fortuin traveling to Namibia and Zimbabwe. The tour includes a T20I tri-series from August 28 to September 6, followed by three ODIs from September 9 to 13. His selection followed an impressive 2025/26 domestic season where he won the Division 1 One Day Cup Player of the Year. South Africa is scheduled to depart from Johannesburg for Windhoek on August 25.

🔥 Air fryer dos and don'ts: what to avoid

Air fryers can safely use materials like aluminium foil and stainless steel, but certain items should definitely be avoided. These appliances cook using rapidly circulating hot air, which differs from microwave heating methods. Items like plastic containers and paper towels pose fire or chemical risks inside the fryer. Oversized containers that block airflow and non-oven-safe glass can damage the unit. Users must ensure items fit well and do not touch the heating element for safe cooking. 💨

🛣️ 158 remote habitations get road access in AP

Road connectivity will be provided for the first time to 158 remote habitations in Andhra Pradesh. This initiative is spearheaded by Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan and will cover areas across various districts. The project includes constructing 146 roads and 19 bridges over a total length of 347 km, sanctioned at ₹422.10 crore. This aims to connect isolated villages to better access for education and healthcare. The Panchayat Raj Engineering Department will execute the works starting now.

🏫 Shivamogga Police bring 250 dropouts back to school

Shivamogga District Police launched the 'Marali Shalege' campaign to reintegrate school dropouts into classrooms. This effort was conducted in coordination with the Department of Education, school authorities, and teachers in Shivamogga. Over the past month, 250 children who had stopped their education midway have been successfully brought back. The police targeted reasons like lack of awareness and migration, aiming to prevent exploitation. Currently, the focus remains on schoolchildren, but the response to the initiative has been encouraging. 📚

📜 Bengal Madrasas get survey about funding

Unmarked survey forms have been distributed to various madrasas across Bengal. This initiative aims to gather detailed information regarding the financial backing of these institutions. The survey process is currently ongoing, with responses expected over the next few weeks. The collected data will help authorities better understand the operational structure of these religious schools. Authorities plan to use this information for regulatory oversight and future planning.

🚨 CBI raids CGST officer in major bribery bust

The CBI's Anti-Corruption Branch conducted searches on Tuesday at the house and office of CGST Superintendent, Banothu Mangamma. She was arrested in Vijayawada after allegedly demanding a ₹1.5 lakh bribe. The CBI registered a case on Monday, August 10, following a complaint regarding the tax liability matter. Officials caught Ms. Mangamma red-handed while accepting ₹50,000 as part of the bribe. Further investigation into the ongoing case is currently taking place. 💰

🎬 Shraddha Kapoor's Eetha shifts release date to December 4

Shraddha Kapoor's biopic Eetha has officially changed its theatrical release date from August 28 to December 4. The film, directed by Laxman Utekar, was originally set against Yash's 'Toxic' in August, but the postponement avoids a major box office clash. With the new slot, Eetha will now compete with an Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan comedy on December 4. The movie is based on the life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, a celebrated Tamasha artiste from Maharashtra. The team plans to visit Narayangaon to launch the official trailer, strengthening the film's local connect. 🎭

🌑 Solar Eclipse 2026 & Hariyali Amavasya rituals

A total solar eclipse is scheduled for August 12, 2026, which coincides with Hariyali Amavasya. The eclipse will last about 4 hours and 24 minutes globally, with totality lasting around 1 hour and 32 minutes along its path. However, the India Meteorological Department confirms the eclipse will not be visible from anywhere in India. Since the event happens at night over India, no eclipse restrictions are necessary for the Amavasya rituals. Devotees can proceed with traditional practices like Pitru Tarpan as usual. 🌙