🏥 Healthcare costs are skyrocketing, report says

A Parliamentary Standing Committee report highlighted soaring healthcare costs across India, suggesting a shift in investment focus. The report noted that healthcare costs grew by 105% between 2012–25, outpacing consumer price hikes by 98%. While government spending increased from 28.6% to 43.7% between 2013–23, this only shifted who paid, not the actual costs. The committee recommends prioritizing public infrastructure over private insurance and regulating private sector pricing. These measures, alongside better public services, are needed to make care truly affordable for everyone.

🍳 Convection ovens make cooking way easier

Convection microwave ovens combine baking, grilling, reheating, and defrosting into one appliance for easier daily cooking. These versatile models are available from brands like IFB, Samsung, Panasonic, and LG across different capacities. Specific options include the IFB 23SC3 (23 Litres) and the Samsung MC28A5013AK (28 Litres) with features like fermentation. Users should choose based on their cooking needs, as smaller models suit compact homes while larger ones fit bigger meals. The choice depends on features like preset menus and capacity, offering diverse options on Flipkart. 🍳

🔪 Sword attack kills one, injures three at Swedish school

A sword attack resulted in one fatality and injured at least three people at a high school in Fagersta, Sweden. The 18-year-old assailant was shot and arrested after the incident at Brinellskolan. This tragic event occurred after a call about deadly violence around 2 pm local time. Authorities are investigating the motive, as this is part of a series of attacks on Swedish schools. Police are intensely working on the case while the government closely monitors the situation. 💔

🐘 Flood-hit elephant Joymoti airlifted for treatment

A 53-year-old elephant named Joymoti, rescued from floods in Nagaland, has been airlifted to Vantara in Jamnagar for specialized care. She was rescued by locals with government help during the second week of July after sustaining multiple severe injuries. The elephant suffers from wounds on her forehead, a damaged right eye, and longstanding lameness in her left hind leg. Veterinarians decided air transport was necessary due to the severity of her conditions and her existing health issues. This transfer is an urgent medical move, and Vantara is also proposing wildlife care centers in Assam. 🐘

💰 Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns: Who's richer in 2026?

Cody Rhodes is estimated to have a net worth between $8M–$12M in 2026, while Roman Reigns is projected to be wealthier at $14M–$20M. This comparison looks at how their WWE success and external ventures have shaped their finances. Reigns benefits from over a decade as a top WWE attraction, whereas Rhodes gained business experience before returning to WWE in 2022. Reigns' income is boosted by extensive endorsements and licensing, unlike Rhodes' growth trajectory. Despite the current gap, Rhodes' continuing success shows strong potential for future financial growth. 💰

🏛️ Supreme Court questions UGC's caste guidelines

The Supreme Court has raised concerns regarding the UGC's 2026 anti-discrimination regulations. These guidelines faced backlash due to fears of bias against general category students. The government is now urged to reconsider these contentious rules. This debate is also gaining political traction ahead of the Uttar Pradesh elections. The focus remains on caste equity and student safeguards.

😠 Hasina's daughter slams WHO over indefinite leave

Saima Wazed’s legal team has accused the WHO of aiding Bangladesh's interim government in targeting her. This allegation was made in a letter to WHO Chief Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus while seeking clarity on her indefinite leave. The leave began on July 11 last year following corruption cases filed by Bangladesh’s ACC. Wazed’s lawyers claim WHO violated its duty of care by dealing improperly with Bangladesh authorities. They also pointed out that Dr Tedros faced similar politically motivated proceedings without being placed on leave. 😠

🎬 Bethlehem Kudumba Unit review: Girish AD slays again

The movie Bethlehem Kudumba Unit explores the connection between Justin and Ashley through music, where they bond over old audio cassettes. It stars Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju in a setting where Ashley moves to a new city neighborhood. The film runs for 157 minutes and was published on August 21, 2026. Girish AD successfully immerses the audience in a close-knit cast with relatable quirks and humor. The gentle handling of the age-gap romance makes the relationship believable for the viewers.

🚨 Minor Driving Minivan Causes Fatal Crash in Mumbai

A woman passed away and another sustained serious injuries after a minivan driven by a minor hit them in Nalasopara East, Mumbai. The victims were identified as 34-year-old Shreya Misal and Progress More, who were walking home from work. Shreya Misal sadly died during treatment, leaving behind her husband and two young daughters. Tulinj police filed a delayed FIR against three people, including owner Rajesh Shah and driver Mahesh Naik, for letting a minor drive. Relatives also alleged the vehicle was transporting illicit liquor at the time of the crash.

🎭 Kollam school ditches Onam dances for Seethakali

Prakkulam Government L.P. School in Kollam replaced usual Onam performances with a traditional Seethakali drama. This centuries-old folk dance-drama, rooted in the Ramayana, was presented on August 21, 2026. The art form nearly disappeared in the 1980s but saw a revival started by Perinad grama panchayat on August 28, 2017. The event aimed to connect students with local heritage, featuring performances by seasoned artists and two students. This cultural initiative highlights the ongoing efforts to keep this vibrant art form alive for future generations. 🎭

🤢 FDA slaps licenses on big Mumbai spots over hygiene

The FDA suspended food business licenses for The Bombay Presidency Radio Club and Khar Gymkhana due to severe hygiene violations. McDonald's Colaba was also suspended after live cockroach infestations were discovered in the kitchen. These actions follow a crackdown initiated by IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe since May. During a recent drive, the FDA issued notices to 71 places and suspended 13 food businesses across Maharashtra. Further suspensions included Novaara restaurant and Status Restaurant for various safety lapses.