🏏 Gambhir's Head Coach Job: Is it safe?

Gautam Gambhir's role as India's head coach is currently under review following poor performances in the Ireland and England tours. Sources suggest his position is safe for now, despite mixed results in both formats. Two main factors support this, including the BCCI accepting the team's transitional phase in Test cricket. Additionally, injuries, such as Shubman Gill's mid-series ailment, are being taken into consideration by the board. Gambhir is reportedly set to remain in charge for white-ball cricket until at least the 2027 ODI World Cup.

📉 73% dropout rate in govt schools flagged by panel

A parliamentary panel warned of a drastic 73% dropout rate before higher secondary in government schools. This issue was flagged across India, highlighting significant gaps in infrastructure for Divyang students. Data from UDISE 2024-25 shows enrolment dropping to 164,17,949 in higher secondary. The committee urged the Ministry of Education to speed up school upgrades and special educator hiring. Furthermore, they called for states to build more secondary and higher secondary schools. 😟

💹 Five stocks analysts are calling a buy on August 13th

Stock experts have highlighted five stocks for potential investment today, including Bank of Maharashtra and Pfizer. These recommendations cover Bank of Maharashtra, IDFC First Bank Ltd., Pfizer Ltd., Avenue Supermarts Ltd., and Castrol. Specific entry levels, price targets, and stop-loss limits are provided for each stock on August 13. The suggestions aim to help investors manage potential risks while capitalizing on upside potential. Investors should review the detailed analysis before making any trading decisions. 📈

🏏 Gay gets picked for Pakistan tour despite shoulder worry

Chris Gayle has been selected for the tour game against Pakistan. He is part of the squad traveling to Pakistan for the upcoming series. The selection comes despite him having experienced a shoulder scare recently. His inclusion is seen as a boost for the team's batting lineup. He is expected to feature prominently in the matches ahead. 🏏

🫂 Humanity First: A Message of Unity

A significant message emphasizing the importance of humanity was delivered recently. This message focused on the collective well-being of people across different groups. The announcement highlighted specific dates and initiatives planned for the near future. It stressed that human connection should take precedence over other concerns in current global discussions. Moving forward, efforts will be concentrated on fostering greater global empathy and cooperation.

🚢 US Navy ramps up blockade near Iran's oil lifeline

Four more Iran-linked ships were redirected by the US Central Command on Wednesday, continuing the 'steel wall' naval blockade against Iran. This brings the total count to 59 redirected vessels, 3 disabled, and 2 boarded as of August 12, 2026. The blockade targets ships entering or leaving Iranian ports, severely restricting Iran's oil export revenue. US forces maintain the Strait of Hormuz is open for neutral traffic, despite increased enforcement actions. This escalating situation places immense economic pressure on Tehran's maritime commerce. 🚢

🏛️ Karoline Leavitt stepping down from White House role

Karoline Leavitt is stepping down as White House press secretary this month following a bittersweet decision. She held the position for President Donald Trump since his return to office in 2025. Her departure comes after she recently welcomed her second child, Viviana, in May. Both she and Trump cited the need to spend more time with her young children as the reason. Trump stated she will transition to an outside advisor role within his circle. 👨‍👩‍👧

🚨 US immigration agency to buy electric shock gloves

A US immigration agency is reportedly planning to purchase electric shock gloves for use by its personnel. This potential acquisition has sparked significant concern among human rights advocates across the country. The agency is looking at procuring these devices, though specific quantities or dates have not been disclosed yet. Critics argue that such equipment raises serious questions about the treatment of migrants. Rights groups are actively pushing back against this move, demanding transparency on the policy's usage.

😠 CJP co-convenor claims Puducherry police harassed his family

Cockroach Janata Party co-convenor Saurav Das alleged that Puducherry Police visited his family residence and subjected them to questioning. The incident occurred in Puducherry on August 12, 2026, with Das claiming intimidation at the Union government's behest. He further alleged the BJP government was trying to silence him regarding his political activities. The police later stated the visit was for routine security checks ahead of Independence Day. Das asserted this action would only strengthen his resolve for a better system. 😠

📉 Oil dips as demand looks weak, US crude stocks rise

Oil prices have settled down by 2% following reports of a weak global demand outlook. This dip was observed globally, with significant build-up noted in US crude oil reserves. Specifically, inventories increased substantially over recent reporting periods. This movement reflects market concerns about slower economic growth impacting energy needs. Analysts are now closely watching upcoming economic data for further price shifts. 📉

⛰️ Two quakes hit Leh within five hours

Two earthquakes struck Leh, Ladakh, on Thursday, August 13. The first tremor was a magnitude 5.5 at 6:05 am, followed by a 4.3 magnitude quake at 9:54 am. Both seismic events were recorded at a depth of 10km by the National Center for Seismology. Leh is located in seismic zone 4 and faces risks from various natural disasters. Authorities are monitoring the situation due to the region's vulnerability to extreme weather events. 😟