✈️ Harvard warns international students about new visa rules

Harvard University is advising international students to stay in the US before September 15th due to upcoming visa rule changes. A new Department of Homeland Security rule will replace the current 'duration of status' with fixed stay periods for F-1 and J-1 visa holders. This change, finalized on July 17th, takes effect on September 15th, 2026. Students already in the US may be treated differently than those who travel and return after this date. Students should check their I-20 and consult their university's international office before planning any travel. ✈️

💖 Girish AD's latest film is a feel-good masterclass

Girish AD's new film, "Bethlehem Kudumba Unit," is praised as his best and most wholesome work yet. It focuses on Ashley, played by Mamitha Baiju, and her family during a move from their old home. The movie offers intimate micro-details and relatable characters, showcasing strong performances by Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju. The film balances romance with lighthearted moments, backed by music from Vishnu Vijay. It suggests that Girish AD is mastering personal storytelling in Malayalam cinema.

🦠 DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Escalating Fast

The UN has reported that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is expanding at an exponential rate. Health officials in DR Congo are grappling with the rapidly worsening situation. As of the latest reports, the case numbers show a steep increase over the past few weeks. This crisis is putting immense pressure on local health infrastructure to manage the spread effectively. International aid is urgently needed to contain the outbreak and protect the population.

🔋 BMW i5 LWB bookings are live, big news for EVs

BMW has officially opened bookings for the i5 LWB, marking a significant moment for locally made electric sedans. This new model is set to debut in the Indian market, bringing advanced EV technology closer to consumers. It boasts an impressive range of 669 kilometers on a single charge, according to the specifications. The launch is part of BMW's push into the premium electric segment in India. Further details on pricing and delivery timelines are expected soon. 🔋

⚓ India needs third carrier as China ramps up fleet 🚢

India currently operates two aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, while China is expanding its fleet to nine ships. The US Navy also operates eleven carriers, aiming for a system of thirds for optimal deployment. India requires a third carrier, possibly in the 65,000-tonne class, within the next fifteen years. This new carrier could carry 50-60 aircraft, offering a major capability boost. Furthermore, DRDO is experimenting with EMALS for enhanced launch technology.

🏏 Australia on edge as Tests hit Mackay 🏏

Men's Test cricket is arriving in Mackay, making it the 12th venue for the country's Tests. Pat Cummins' team is facing Bangladesh in this laid-back rural city of around 130,000 people. The match is set to run over five days, with expectations for pace and bounce on the pitch. Cummins admitted Australia needs to adjust its rhythm after Bangladesh's performance in Darwin. A convincing victory is sought by Australia, while Bangladesh aims for greater glory.

✈️ South Africa hits Indian travellers with new ETA fee

South Africa has introduced a new R500 processing fee for its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. This charge applies to Indian travellers using the digital immigration route, effective August 17. The fee follows the official launch of the ETA system by President Cyril Ramaphosa on August 12. This shift is part of a wider digitalisation effort to make immigration processing faster. Eligible travellers must check the official portal for details before booking their trip. ✈️

📚 DU lets colleges use Class 12 marks for UG admissions

The University of Delhi (DU) has allowed select colleges to offer UG admissions based on Class 12 marks for the 2026-27 academic session. This option is available at colleges like Kalindi College and Rajdhani College in Delhi. Admissions will be merit-based and are limited to specific BA, BSc, and BCom courses mentioned in the notice. This provides an alternative route for students who have not yet enrolled in a DU college. Students must carefully check the course-wise eligibility conditions before applying.

🦟 India's first dengue vaccine is a piece of the puzzle

India has approved its first live attenuated tetravalent dengue vaccine for ages 4-60 by the CDSCO. This vaccine is part of a larger health strategy to combat dengue, which saw 11,201 deaths globally in 2024. The vaccine showed 80.2% efficacy in Phase 3 trials against confirmed dengue in children. However, controlling dengue requires integrating vaccination with stronger surveillance and vector control measures. WHO suggests using it for children aged 6-16 in high-transmission areas. 🦟

🏛️ South states need fair share of national wealth: CM

Karnataka's CM D.K. Shivakumar demanded a fairer allocation of national resources for southern states. He made this statement during the inauguration of Samvada, a two-day conference organized by the ICAI Bengaluru branch on August 21, 2026. He highlighted that Karnataka is a major contributor to India’s economy, being among the largest taxpayers. Shivakumar also warned that excessive enforcement actions are causing wealthy businesspersons to move abroad. He urged chartered accountants to promote compliance and investment for national growth. 📈

🩺 Why are kids getting kidney stones? Doctor explains

Kidney stones, once an adult issue, are increasingly diagnosed in children and teenagers globally. Dr Arun Kumar Balakrishnan noted this rise, pointing to a shift where stone composition mirrors adult cases. Major causes include poor hydration and modern diets rich in junk food. Sedentary lifestyles and genetics also contribute to this growing health trend. Parents should watch for flank pain and blood in urine for early detection. 😟