🚨 Google data center faces protest in Vizag

Environmental activists are challenging the approvals for a massive Google-backed AI data centre in Visakhapatnam. Bolisetty Satyanarayana raised concerns regarding water use and land allocation for this project in Andhra Pradesh. The project, valued at Rs 1.2 lakh crore, was cleared by the AP Cabinet in October 2025. Activists argue that construction in ecologically sensitive areas requires a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment. They have approached the Andhra Pradesh High Court to demand greater transparency on resource needs.

🔭 Next big solar eclipse is in 2027

The next major total solar eclipse is set for August 2, 2027, which will traverse southern Spain, North Africa, and the Middle East. This rare event is expected to offer a total duration of around six minutes and twenty-two seconds, one of the longest ever witnessed. Popular destinations like Luxor in Egypt and areas in Morocco are prime spots for viewing the celestial show. Travelers are advised to book early and aim for flexible hotel options near the path of totality. This event promises a magical experience, blending astronomy with rich historical sites. 🤩

📸 Samsung skips variable aperture camera for S27 series

Samsung has reportedly decided against implementing a variable aperture main camera across its Galaxy S27 series. This decision comes despite earlier rumors linking it to the iPhone 18 Pro's features. The change is attributed to rising manufacturing costs and the issue of thicker camera bumps. The company felt the functional benefits didn't justify the extra expense amidst high DRAM costs. Samsung previously used this feature in the Galaxy S9 and S10 back in 2018 and 2019.

🏏 Ex-player on Jadeja's future and Suthar's rise

Former India spinner Murali Kartik believes Manav Suthar has the potential to take over from Ravindra Jadeja in the Test side. Both players are in the squad for the Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle later this week. Suthar recently impressed by taking seven wickets, including a six-wicket haul against Afghanistan in Mullanpur. Kartik stressed that Suthar should be judged on his own skills, not just compared to the established player. He noted that with Jadeja nearing the end of his career, India needs to start planning the succession now. 🏏

🚗 2026 Scorpio Classic update leaks show big changes

Leaked images reveal several major exterior updates for the 2026 Mahindra Scorpio Classic. The design retains the original silhouette but gets a refreshed grille and new alloy wheels. Key changes include the removal of vertical rear tail lights and the addition of a larger rear spoiler. Mahindra is also debuting a single-pane sunroof on this Classic model. Specific launch dates and interior details are still unknown for this updated SUV. 🤩

🤖 SC asks govt to check 'high-risk' AI in welfare 🤖

The Supreme Court of India asked the union government to consider a petition regarding the use of high-risk AI in public welfare. This request came from an apex court lawyer, N.K. Goswami, in the Supreme Court on Thursday, August 13, 2026. The petition highlighted the lack of a specific statutory framework for AI use in areas like food, health, and pensions. Mr. Goswami argued that fundamental rights must be protected even when using automated systems in governance. The court noted it lacked the technical know-how to address these policy issues directly.

⛏️ Parliament limits state tax power on minerals

Parliament has passed an amendment restricting state governments from taxing mineral rights and lands for a unified fiscal system. The Rajya Sabha cleared the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, after the Lok Sabha passed it yesterday. This new law prevents states from imposing levies based on mineral quantity or value, except under central guidelines. It aims to invalidate unrecovered past state levies before 2026, though already paid taxes won't be refunded. The move seeks stability for the mining sector, which faced uncertainty due to differing state taxes. ⛏️

👴 Aamir Khan's first meeting with Dharmendra was wild

Aamir Khan shared a memorable story about first meeting the late Dharmendra while he was an assistant director. This encounter took place at Nasir Hussain's office, right opposite Mehboob Studio in Mumbai. Khan recounted shaking Dharmendra's hand and finding it incredibly large, comparing it to a shovel. The sheer size and roughness of the veteran star's hand momentarily scared him. This memory highlights Dharmendra's massive presence, a star who passed away on November 24, 2025, at age 89.

📺 Soap on TV Screen? Know the Rules 🧼

Directly using soapy water on a TV screen is not recommended due to potential damage. For stubborn marks, use a tiny bit of mild dish soap mixed with distilled water on a damp microfiber cloth. Wipe gently in circular motions and follow up with a dry cloth to remove moisture. Experts strongly advise against using glass cleaner or paper towels on displays. Always use light pressure and only approved methods to keep your screen safe.

🇧🇩 Fakhrul nominated for Bangladesh presidency

Senior BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has been nominated as the party's candidate for the presidential election. This selection was announced on August 13th following a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in the Secretariat. The BNP holds 249 votes, securing his election on August 20th, while the opposition has nominated Col (retd) Oli Ahmad. Fakhrul has resigned from his previous roles upon accepting the candidacy for the country's 23rd president. The election process will see nomination papers submitted today, with voting happening on August 20th. 🇧🇩

✨ Catch the best meteor shower tonight

The Perseid meteor shower is currently peaking, offering the best shooting star show of the year. Viewers can watch this annual event over Colorado, where the Milky Way is visible in the night sky. This phenomenon has been observed for as long as historical records exist. The episode also discusses recent news about the sun and the SpaceX rocket impact on the moon. Listen to Short Wave for more space updates and information.