🤖 Google Assistant is officially retiring on Android

Google has started notifying users that Google Assistant will begin disappearing from Android phones on September 4. This change, communicated via email, will take place over several weeks across eligible Android devices. Previously, Google confirmed Assistant would remain until March 2026, but this email gives the first specific removal date. Gemini will replace Google Assistant as the default assistant experience on supported phones and paired devices. Users whose devices are unsupported may continue using Assistant until the broader retirement timeline ends. 🤖

📈 RBI holds repo rate steady amid global oil jitters ⛽

The Reserve Bank of India unanimously decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent following its MPC meeting. This decision was made while keeping the SDF rate at 5 per cent and MSF rate at 5.5 per cent. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra noted that high crude oil prices due to the Iran war amplified energy price volatility. The FY27 retail inflation estimate was reduced to 5 per cent, and the FY27 real GDP projection was raised to 6.7 per cent. The RBI will keep a neutral stance while closely watching food and fuel price pressures moving forward.

🚂 Droupadi Murmu's Luxury Train Setup Revealed

President Droupadi Murmu traveled in a specially equipped luxury train from Bhubaneswar. This high-security conveyance features various amenities designed for comfort during travel. The train setup ensures the President maintains necessary privacy and safety throughout the journey. Security protocols are stringent, reflecting the importance of the office of the President. Further details regarding her itinerary will be announced by the official press office.

🚄 President Murmu's luxury train ride details revealed

President Droupadi Murmu traveled on a specially configured Presidential train from Bhubaneswar to Berhampur during her Odisha visit. This 18-coach luxury rake is designed as a secure, self-contained unit for the Head of State. The journey took place on August 5, 2026, marking a rare rail trip for the incumbent President. The train boasts a Presidential Suite with bullet-resistant windows and advanced air-suspension technology for a smooth ride. Next, the train includes dedicated command and surveillance coaches for comprehensive VVIP security arrangements. 🚄

✈️ IndiGo fined for missed flight due to terminal mix-up

A Chhattisgarh district consumer commission ordered IndiGo to pay Rs 60,000 compensation after a passenger missed his flight. This incident happened to Amitesh Pathak while traveling from Delhi to Raipur on March 31, 2015. The airline only updated the flight time via SMS but failed to mention the departure terminal, which was Terminal 1D. Consequently, the passenger went to Terminal 3, leading to the missed flight and extra expenses. The commission ruled this was a deficiency in service, directing payment within 45 days. ✈️

📊 RBI keeps rates steady, waiting on inflation signals

The Reserve Bank of India decided to keep interest rates unchanged in its latest meeting. This decision was made by the central bank in New Delhi, following careful consideration of the economic outlook. The key monetary policy committee members met on June 6, 2024. The RBI is observing the inflation trend closely before making any significant rate adjustments. Future decisions will heavily depend on clearer signals regarding price stability. 📊

🏏 Amir gets British passport, weighs IPL 2027

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has officially acquired British citizenship, allowing him domestic playing status in the UK. He is currently representing Trent Rockets in The Hundred competition. Amir confirmed he plans to play in the Pakistan Super League in 2027 as an overseas player. Regarding the IPL, he stated he has not yet decided on a potential stint. This update comes as Amir previously announced his retirement from international cricket after the 2024 T20 World Cup. 🏏

🍄 India's hidden glowing forests and beaches ✨

Certain parts of India's rainforests exhibit a natural green glow due to bioluminescent fungi on decaying wood. This phenomenon occurs in locations like Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra, during the monsoon months. The light is produced via a chemical reaction involving luciferin and luciferase, sometimes called 'foxfire'. Besides forests, beaches like Bangaram Island show blue light from dinoflagellates. These two bioluminescent displays are driven by completely different organisms.

🐞 Beetle with a poo parasol? Wildwatch finds wild wonders

A unique tortoise beetle larva, boasting a prehensile anus, was spotted during a local wildlife recording day. This sighting occurred near Cwm Tydu, in Ceredigion, with the observation being made recently. The tiny emerald green creature collects its own waste to form a protective faecal shield against predators. These meticulous local recorders are vital for gathering essential data on regional biodiversity trends. Their dedicated volunteer work helps reveal the incredible uniqueness of every local field.

🌧️ Kochi's roads are wrecked under monsoon rain 🌧️

Incessant monsoon rain has exposed the terrible condition of roads in Kochi, forcing commuters to deal with huge potholes. P.C. Ajith Kumar of EDRAAC criticized the Kochi Corporation, PWD, and NHAI for lack of summer maintenance. Traffic police noted a spike in accidents, especially involving two-wheelers, due to hidden potholes. The Kochi Corporation is facing delays because bitumen costs increased by around 70% due to the West Asia war. Residents are demanding immediate repairs, and some are considering switching to the Kochi Metro for safety.

💉 Canada greenlights Moderna's Ebola vaccine trials

Canada has authorized Moderna to start clinical trials for an Ebola vaccine targeting the Bundibugyo strain. This Phase 1 trial will take place in Canada, assessing safety, dosage, and side effects in healthy participants. The vaccine uses the same mRNA tech as Moderna's Covid-19 shot, and Canada plans to manufacture it domestically. Currently, there is no approved treatment for the Bundibugyo variant of Ebola. Positive results could lead to larger trials, given over 1,700 deaths in the DRC since May.