💰 Govt asks ride-share apps to ditch pre-ride tipping prompts

The government has instructed ride-sharing apps like Uber and Rapido to remove prompts asking passengers to tip before accepting a ride. This change aims to ensure that the entire tip amount goes directly to the driver. The directive was issued to these major mobility platforms to improve driver compensation. This move addresses concerns regarding how tips are currently being managed within the apps. The apps will need to update their systems to reflect this new policy moving forward.

⚖️ 13 acquitted in 2020 Delhi riots case

A Delhi court acquitted 13 accused in a 2020 northeast Delhi riots case after scrutinizing the prosecution's testimony. The court noted that the key witness suddenly became an eyewitness, casting a 'shadow of doubt' on their statement. This case stems from an incident on February 25, 2020, near New Usmanpur police station. The judge found the CCTV footage too weak for accurate identification, especially since FSL couldn't help. Consequently, the prosecution failed to meet mandatory procedures, leading to the acquittal. ⚖️

⛏️ Centre aims to control mineral tax across states

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill 2026 was passed by both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. This move seeks to bring mineral-bearing land regulation under the Central government, impacting state tax powers. The bill addresses heavy tax burdens caused by multiple state levies on mineral rights and land. This is amidst Opposition criticism claiming it violates a 2024 Supreme Court judgment. The amendments aim to bring fiscal stability to boost India's lagging mining sector. ⛏️

✈️ Air India flight hits turbulence, logs 9 warnings

An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced a serious incident involving hydraulic pressure and autopilot disconnects. On August 4, flight AI2379, an Airbus A320, left 20 passengers and four crew members injured. The flight log showed nine warnings in one minute after crossing the Odisha coast at 9:32 am IST. The investigation is ongoing, especially after the pilot tested positive for cannabis. Further technical analysis is required to fully understand the sequence of events.

♟️ Esports World Cup: Top Chess Players Advance

The group stage of the Esports World Cup kicked off Wednesday in Paris with 16 players competing for 8 playoff spots. Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura secured their places in Group B, while Alireza Firouzja and Nodirbek Abdusattorov advanced from Group A. The competition runs from August 11 to August 15 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles with a $1.5 million prize pool. Thursday's lower bracket matchups will decide the remaining slots for the 8-player playoff stage starting Friday. The event features a double-elimination bracket format for all matches.

🤔 Kharge comments on rally venue 'purification'

M. Kharge made controversial remarks regarding the 'purification' of his rally venue. The statement was made by him in relation to an upcoming political event. While specific numbers or dates were not provided in the source text, the context revolves around religious sensitivities. This comment has drawn significant public attention and criticism across political lines. The political fallout from these remarks is currently being observed by observers.

😟 Nearly 4 million Afghan kids facing malnutrition crisis 😔

Nearly one in ten Afghan children are suffering from acute malnutrition, according to Save the Children's new research. This crisis is happening in Afghanistan as essential health services have closed due to lack of funding. Acute malnutrition has surged by 14 percent over the last four years, now affecting 3.7 million children in 2026. The rise is linked to slowed humanitarian aid and the closure of 600 health facilities. The international community now faces a critical choice to protect these children's futures.

🤝 Mann asks Governor for 10-day parole for Hawara

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann met Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to request 10-day parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara. This meeting took place in Punjab, India, on Wednesday, August 13, 2026. Hawara has been in jail for 31 years, and the parole is sought so he can meet his ailing, semi-conscious mother. The Punjab Government assured the Governor they will fully handle law and order during his visit. The Governor's recommendation is necessary as the case is currently being heard in Delhi.

🤝 BRICS nations planning big financial upgrade 🌐

Members of the BRICS group, including India, China, Russia, South Africa, and Brazil, are discussing linking their fast payment systems and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). These talks are part of preparations for the 2026 BRICS summit, which India will host. The group aims to create a more integrated financial network to make cross-border payments efficient and affordable. Furthermore, the RBI Governor highlighted efforts to internationalize the Indian rupee through local currency use. Central banks are also addressing AI's role, viewing it as a capability to boost finance securely.

⚽ Romero heading to Atlético Madrid for €40m

Barcelona was linked with Cristian Romero after Ronald Araujo's loan move, but the deal is off. Tottenham and Atlético Madrid have agreed on a €40 million transfer for the center-back. This move allows Romero to join Spain after five seasons in London. Barça reportedly studied the deal but chose not to proceed with the transfer. Atlético can now finalize the move after Nahuel Molina's sale to AS Roma.

⚽ Barça's second bid for Rodri rejected by City

Barcelona's pursuit of Rodri has faced another roadblock as Manchester City turned down the latest offer. The Catalan club presented an improved proposal worth around €60 million for the Spanish midfielder. City, however, are reportedly demanding a package of €70 million plus add-ons. This situation is notable since Rodri is nearing the final year of his contract with the Premier League side. Barcelona's interest remains, but a significant gap persists between the two clubs' valuations. ⚽