🤖 Google polishing Proactive Assistance for Pixel 11

Google is finalizing a new Gemini Feature called Proactive Assistance ahead of the Pixel 11 launch. This feature is expected to evolve Magic Cue by pulling app info based on screen context. Early views were spotted using version 17.47.17.sa.arm64 of the Google app. The onboarding screens show how users will be guided through the tool while addressing privacy concerns. The full integration with Magic Cue will likely be revealed during next Wednesday's event.

⚖️ Shakib ready to return for trial with security

Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan is willing to return to Bangladesh for his court trial if government security is guaranteed. He is currently playing with Jaffna Kings in Sri Lanka and is facing charges related to the 2024 protests. The legal situation has shifted after his recent appearance with Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India. Bangladesh's sports minister has now changed his stance on accommodating Shakib's return. Shakib previously expressed a desire to play a farewell series at home before retirement.

🚨 Siddique's sister files complaint over threat audio

Bandra Police registered an NC offence following a complaint from Zeeshan Siddique's sister about a viral threat audio clip. The clip, uploaded online by an account claiming to be gangster Zeeshan Akhtar, reportedly warned Siddique to boost his security. The complaint was filed after the sister found the audio on a social media platform. Investigators are currently verifying the clip's authenticity and tracing its source, which was uploaded online. Further action depends on the verification outcome; it could become a cognisable offence if the threat is genuine.

🔬 AU hosting biotech FDP on AI and biomanufacturing

Andhra University's Biotechnology Department is organizing a five-day Faculty Development Programme. This event will take place at Andhra University from August 24 to 28. The FDP, titled EFBAFTB-2026, is under the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan. It focuses on AI applications, fermentation technology, and biomanufacturing for faculty members. The program aims to boost teaching and research collaboration in modern biotechnology fields.

📰 India denies seeking defense pact with Israel

The Ministry of External Affairs dismissed a report claiming India sought a defence pact with Israel. This claim originated from the Turkish outlet Straturka and circulated widely on social media platforms. The report suggested talks started after the Pakistan-Saudi-Turkey security agreement was signed on Friday. The MEA flagged the content as fake news generated using artificial intelligence. India is closely monitoring regional developments, according to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. 🇮🇳

🏛️ Jharkhand talks with student protesters, but no deal yet

The Jharkhand Government held talks with student protesters demanding a CBI inquiry into alleged exam irregularities. This meeting took place in Ranchi on Friday, August 7, 2026, with a 5-member ministerial committee engaging a 10-member student team. The discussions, which lasted two hours, concluded without reaching any agreement between both sides. Student leader Ravindra Paswan confirmed the protest will continue as key demands were unresolved. The government stated it would consider the points raised and take necessary steps for reforms.

😠 Jharkhand talks stall over job exam probes

The Jharkhand government held its first meeting with student protesters in Ranchi on Friday, August 7, 2026. A five-member ministerial committee met with a ten-member student team at the State Guest House. Despite the discussions, the meeting ended without any agreement, leading students to continue their protest. Students are demanding a CBI inquiry into alleged irregularities in JPSC and JSSC exams. The government has promised to consider demands and gather broader suggestions for reforms. 😠

🚀 Startup India scheme boosts youth innovation

CII Chairman G.Krishna Mohan stated that the Union government's Startup India Seed Fund Scheme will help youngsters launch startups rapidly. He made this comment alongside K.Sambireddy at the 'Vikasit Bharat-Human Capital Conclave' in Centurion University of Technology and Management, Vizianagaram. The scheme allows young people to secure bank loans without any collateral security. Sambireddy also emphasized the need to update university syllabi with global technological changes. This event highlighted skill development as a top priority for CUTM. 🚀

🛑 Two IIT Bombay canteens shut down by food regulator

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration shut down two canteens at IIT Bombay on Friday due to licensing issues. The affected places were Hostel Mess No. 1 and Hostel Mess No. 3 in the Powai campus. This action is part of a statewide crackdown on food establishments to ensure public health safety. An inspection revealed the operators lacked valid FSSAI licenses and necessary permissions. The FDA is continuing this drive, having inspected 63 restaurants between August 4 and 6.

🌳 BDA launches website for sapling tracking

The BDA is creating a website to increase transparency in monitoring 1.5 million saplings planted during a drive on June 27, 2026. Following public queries, the Authority invited short-term tenders for a Post-Event Website on Friday. As of July 27, the BDA claimed a review showed 90% of the saplings and sites were thriving, with 279 sites doing well. All saplings are geotagged for a Guinness Record, and NGOs adopt sites for maintenance over three years. The new portal will feature weekly maintenance records and a public complaint resolution loop. 🌳

🧶 Handloom scheme boosting weavers in backward regions

The Union government's National Handloom Development Programme is aiding thousands of weavers with financial and material support. BJP leader Pasupleti Suresh Singh and TDP leader Gutti Chinna Rao honored weaver Tutika Venkata Rao in Srikakulam on National Handloom Day. Venkata Rao's family has supplied Pattuvastrams and Talapaga to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy for the past 100 years. Mr. Singh requested the government to establish a dedicated handloom cluster in Srikakulam for weavers. This initiative aims to provide better support to weavers in these backward areas.