🤝 India and Russia discuss army tech in Delhi

India and Russia are holding their fifth Army Land Systems Sub-Group meeting in New Delhi. The discussions focus on reviewing current military technical cooperation and strengthening land systems collaboration. This four-day event takes place from August 4 to August 7, 2026. The talks are held under the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation. Both sides aim to advance defence industrial and technological cooperation moving forward. 🤝

📱 Vivo V80 series launch delayed in India

The launch of the Vivo V80 series premium smartphones has reportedly been postponed in India. The delay affects the lineup, which was anticipated sooner, now pushing the debut to August 12. This revised date is based on tips from Sanju Choudhary and is not officially confirmed by Vivo. The delay might allow Vivo to perfect its marketing strategy before the big reveal. These phones are expected to pack a 7,000mAh battery and ZEISS cameras. 📱

🛡️ New rules coming for ride-sharing apps

A new Motor Vehicle Aggregator Policy is set to launch soon to boost passenger safety and transparency. Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar announced this initiative for app-based aggregators operating in India. The policy review committee finished consultations and is finalizing its recommendations shortly. Key areas under review include passenger safety, driver welfare, and fare transparency. The government will soon implement these changes to improve transport tech services.

🏥 MP asks Centre for two more AIIMS in Andhra Pradesh

Jana Sena MP Lingamaneni Ramesh wrote to Health Minister J.P. Nadda on Thursday requesting more healthcare infrastructure. He asked for two new AIIMS, one in Rayalaseema and one in North coastal districts, and to upgrade AIIMS-Mangalagiri. This move aims to fix regional healthcare gaps in the reorganized State of Andhra Pradesh. Currently, one AIIMS struggles to serve the state's nearly five crore population across three regions. The MP stressed this is needed due to increased healthcare demand over the last decade. 🏥

🚢 Hormuz passage deal hits snags for shipping

A proposed deal regarding the Hormuz passage has been deemed unfeasible by multiple sources in the industry. This situation involves major shipping interests navigating geopolitical complexities. The negotiations have been ongoing, but specific dates for finalization are not yet set. The proposal aimed to streamline maritime transit through this critical waterway. Further discussions are expected to determine the viability of the passage agreement. 🚢

🛂 Trump plan could raise H-1B, L-1 visa costs

A potential plan under the Trump administration might increase the costs associated with H-1B and L-1 visa extensions. This policy change would specifically affect Indian professionals working in the US. The details of the increased fees are yet to be officially released, but the proposals are circulating. This move is being scrutinized by immigration experts and the tech community. It suggests a stricter approach to skilled worker immigration in the future. 💼

🐒 Monkeys care for animals outside their family, just like us

A new Springer study systematically reviewed 427 cases of inter-species social interactions involving primates. This research found interactions across at least 88 primate species and 127 non-primate species, happening both in the wild and captivity. The documented encounters suggest that caring and curiosity are ancient traits shared across primates, not just humans. Play and grooming were common behaviors, with young primates showing the most curiosity. These findings offer insights into the evolutionary roots of human-animal partnerships.

⚽ Rodri ditches Madrid, teams up with Barcelona

Manchester City's midfielder Rodri Hernández has reportedly agreed to personal terms with FC Barcelona. This move places Barcelona in the lead as they now negotiate with the English club for the signing. The potential transfer was reported on Tuesday by MARCA, Fabrice Hawkins, and Fabrizio Romano. Rodri is apparently drawn to Barcelona's footballing style and his potential reunion with eight Spanish World Cup squad members. Real Madrid remains in the race but will need a significant effort to secure the midfielder.

💥 Houthi attacks kill 30+ Yemeni forces in Yemen

Houthi rebel attacks reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 30 Yemeni government troops. These strikes targeted several Emergency Forces camps in Marib province and Hadramawt province. The attacks occurred after the Houthis claimed they were targeting large Saudi military build-ups. Health Minister Qasim Bahibah condemned the assault as an attempt to destabilize security. The conflict continues amidst a wider civil war devastating Yemen since 2014. 😟

⚖️ Bombay High Court steps in on doctor strikes

The Bombay High Court orally stated it plans to establish a ruling that prevents doctors from engaging in strikes. This came as the Indian Medical Association (IMA) announced the end of its ongoing agitation in Maharashtra. The protest was happening over a government resolution allowing homeopathy practitioners to register under the MMC and prescribe modern medicines. The court's observation signals a significant stance on medical professional actions in the region. This development sets a new precedent regarding doctors' right to strike. ⚖️

😠 Body transport controversy sparks outrage

CPI(M) leader V. Sivankutty demanded action against officials regarding the transport of R. Rajesh's body. The incident took place in Kannur, involving the transfer of the swimming instructor's body from Kannur to Thiruvananthapuram. Rajesh passed away while saving someone in flood waters, and his body was released on Tuesday after post-mortem at 8:30 p.m. The Revenue and Health departments allegedly refused a freezer ambulance citing lack of funds. Relatives eventually had to use a private ambulance due to decomposition and foul smell.