🏏 Gill's big prep move before Sri Lanka tests 🏏

The Indian cricket team management specifically instructed staff to mimic the Sri Lanka warm-up pitch conditions for practice. Shubman Gill's side is heading into a two-Test series against Sri Lanka starting on August 15. The practice pitch was deliberately left with cracks to simulate a Day 4 track, capable of reverse swing. This move indicated preparation for Sri Lanka's pace attack, not just spin bowling. Former Sri Lankan bowler Farveez Maharoof believes India is better prepared despite past batting concerns.

😟 Sitting too much? Check these body risks.

Prolonged daily sitting affects more than just posture, impacting muscles and circulation significantly. Experts warn that inactivity can negatively influence heart health over time. When sedentary, the body burns fewer calories, which easily leads to weight gain and associated risks. Common issues like back pain also arise from poor posture while sitting for extended periods. Taking regular breaks, like walking every hour, is essential to mitigate these health risks.

😠 Jharkhand govt ready to cancel JPSC prelims exams

The Jharkhand government has announced its readiness to cancel the 14th JPSC Preliminary examination and related backlog exams. This decision comes after the Chief Minister, Hemant Soren, addressed ongoing student agitation in Jharkhand. The government plans to investigate examinations linked to TDPL, an IT vendor based in Lucknow, and consults IITs and IIMs. Students' protests against alleged JPSC and JSSC irregularities continued for the 19th day on Tuesday. The administration assured transparency and committed to moving forward with reforms despite opposition protests. 😠

🎾 Djokovic extends massive top-10 streak

Novak Djokovic has achieved a significant milestone in professional tennis. He successfully extended his streak of remaining in the top-10 rankings globally. This impressive run now spans 400 weeks, solidifying his dominance on the court. His consistency showcases sustained excellence across various tournaments and seasons. Djokovic will continue to defend this record in upcoming major competitions.

📈 Retail F&O losses drop due to SEBI actions

Retail losses in the Futures and Options (F&O) segment have seen a significant decrease to Rs 91,685 crore for the fiscal year 2026. This reduction is attributed to the implementation of measures by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The data reflects a noticeable shift in risk-taking behavior among retail investors. These regulatory steps are aimed at curbing excessive leverage and protecting small investors from market volatility. The government closely monitors these trends to maintain market stability moving forward. 📈

😠 India slams Pakistan over PoK crackdown 😠

The Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned Pakistan's crackdown on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that public discontent in PoK was met with bullets and blackouts by Pakistani authorities. Over the last several months, more than 90 people have been killed, and many others have been injured during these large-scale protests. The protests were led by the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) over 12 refugee seats. The international community is being called upon to hold Pakistan accountable for these severe human rights violations.

😟 Lashkar Commander Dies After Terror Claim

A Lashkar commander passed away mysteriously in Pakistan shortly after a terror operative made a claim. The operative reported that an unknown man killed approximately 30 people. This incident occurred following the alleged attack mentioned by the operative. The commander's death has raised questions regarding the security situation in the region. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the commander's demise. 😟

🇮🇳 India boosts defense ties in Africa and Indian Ocean

CNS Admiral Swaminathan is on a four-day official visit to Mauritius from August 10 to 13, 2026, to strengthen maritime security cooperation. The visit aims to deepen operational ties and reinforce the strategic partnership between India and Mauritius. Separately, an Indian Army contingent was flown to Abidjan for Côte d'Ivoire's 66th Independence Day parade on August 7. This contingent, numbering 60 members, marched at the invitation of the Ivorian government. This shows India's expanding defense diplomacy, building on its presence since January 2025. 🤝

🛡️ Saudi deal traps Pakistan in defense puzzle

A new Makkah Al-Mukarramah Summit agreement points to a collective defense framework involving three states. Pakistan, as the sole nuclear state in the triad, showed caution by only intending to "strengthen" deterrence. Saudi Arabia likely seeks nuclear deterrents, potentially funding Pakistan's capabilities again, as it fears Iran and Houthis. Pakistan's current nuclear arsenal is estimated at 170 weapons, with Chinese assistance playing a key role in its expansion. The deal also promises conventional defense cooperation, building on past military support between Pakistan and the Kingdom. 🇸🇦

🧠 Brain cell map unveils new Alzheimer's therapy paths 🧠

A comprehensive map of brain immune cells was released, shedding light on Alzheimer's disease progression. Researchers from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai analyzed over 830,000 myeloid-origin immune cells from 1,607 donors. They found a protective microglial subtype that expands as the disease advances, clearing harmful material. This protective function relies on a molecular pathway involving TREM2, MITF, and GPNMB. These findings offer a roadmap for therapies boosting the brain's natural defenses.

✊ BJP slams Gandhi over Jharkhand student protest crackdown

BJP chief Harsh Malhotra criticized Rahul Gandhi for remaining silent on the police action against students in Jharkhand. Malhotra questioned Gandhi when he would demand Chief Minister Hemant Soren's resignation amidst the crackdown. Thousands of job aspirants marched in Ranchi, clashing with police who used water cannons and tear gas on Monday. These students have been protesting since July 25, demanding recruitment reforms and an independent inquiry. The political pressure intensifies as the students continue to press for changes in the job commission system. ✊