📱 India plans to build its own smartphone giants

India is launching a Rs 62,500 crore Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme to boost homegrown smartphone brands. This initiative targets local IP, design, and brand development, aiming for a strong indigenous brand by mid-2027. Currently, Indian phones are mostly made domestically, but foreign brands dominate the market share. The new scheme offers incentives for Indian brands meeting strict ownership and R&D criteria from FY2026-27 to FY2030-31. This push seeks to change the current dependency on international smartphone manufacturers. 📱

🛰️ Astronauts fix ISS antenna during second spacewalk

Astronauts Adenot and Menon successfully completed their second spacewalk to repair the International Space Station's communications antenna. They were working aboard the ISS, performing critical maintenance tasks in orbit. This spacewalk took place on February 24, 2024, to ensure reliable communication systems for the station. The repair is vital for maintaining consistent data links and operations for the crew. Future spacewalks are planned as part of the ongoing maintenance schedule for the station. 🛰️

🥤 Fanta sugar levels differ between UK and India

A report revealed that Fanta sold in the UK has significantly less sugar than its Indian counterpart. This difference is attributed to regulatory environments, as the UK has a cold drink tax. Urvashi Agarwal explained this tax provides a financial incentive for manufacturers to reduce sugar content. Meanwhile, the Indian market, valued at over $100 billion, faces scrutiny over labelling norms. Regulators have proposed warnings since 2017, but producers currently only list basic information.

🎬 Director's old comment resurfaces amidst Toxic reviews

Director Geetu Mohandas' statement about never sticking to the script has resurfaced amid backlash for 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups'. The filmmaker made this comment in an old interview with Flm Companion South before production started. Toxic opened to a massive response, reportedly earning over Rs 140 crore worldwide on its first day. This fuels ongoing discussions about the film's direction and execution online. The director and Yash co-wrote the gangster drama, which stars Yash and Kiara Advani. 🎬

🔬 Vaginal Microbiome Links to Conception Success

Research has investigated the connection between vaginal microbiome profiles and various reproductive health outcomes. This study was conducted by researchers across different settings to analyze the data. Specifically, it looked at profiles across different dates and observed certain patterns in reproductive health. The findings suggest that the vaginal microbiome plays a significant role in both natural conception and assisted reproduction techniques. Further research is needed to fully understand these implications.

🔥 Toxic's box office chase: can it hit ₹150 crore? 💰

Yash-starrer 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups' crossed the ₹100 crore mark in India on its opening day. The film, directed by Geetu Mohandas, features Yash, Kiara Advani, and is currently running across 11,435 shows. On Day 1, it grossed ₹120.75 crore in India and ₹140.75 crore worldwide. The immediate goal is to sustain momentum to reach the ₹150 crore net milestone before the weekend. Audience word-of-mouth will be key to maintaining this advantage going forward.

🚀 Dream11 Pivots to Global Sports Platform

Dream11 is undergoing a significant shift in its business model. The company is transforming into a comprehensive global sports engagement platform. This strategic pivot aims to expand its reach beyond its current operational scope. The move signals a major evolution in how they interact with sports enthusiasts worldwide. Future plans involve leveraging this new structure for broader international growth.

🔥 Jin's brand photos face backlash over fan drama

BTS's Jin is facing harsh online comments regarding his recent Gucci brand photos. This controversy stems from an alleged fan conflict involving top Chinese actor Xiao Zhan. Netizens noticed malicious comments on Jin's Gucci posts after some fans allegedly doxxed Xiao Zhan. The dispute started because some Jin fans were unhappy with Xiao Zhan's promotional treatment. Authorities have reportedly taken action, and Jin's Chinese Fanclub has issued an apology. 💔

🐸 Frogs in space answered early life questions 🐸

In 1992, scientists tested vertebrate reproduction in microgravity aboard the Endeavour space shuttle. The mission, STS-47, took place on September 12, 1992, involving four female African clawed frogs. Researchers induced ovulation and fertilized their eggs in orbit to study development without gravity. While initial stages showed slight differences, tadpoles later developed normally, suggesting gravity isn't strictly required for body organization. This old experiment still informs current plans for long-term space missions.

🚢 Two Chinese crew rescued from sunk vessel in Bay of Bengal

Two Chinese crew members, Pan Tonglai and Chen Jianhe, were brought to Paradip, Odisha by the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Varad. These survivors were from the Panama-flagged bulk carrier, MV Ocean Winner, which sank in the Bay of Bengal. The rescue occurred after they were found in a liferaft on August 22, 2026, and they were handed over on Thursday, August 27, 2026. The vessel had 24 crew members, including 20 Chinese nationals, sailing from Paradip to China with iron ore. Search operations are still ongoing to locate the remaining 22 missing crew members. 🚢

😭 Arjun Kapoor breaks down talking about late mother

Arjun Kapoor became emotional during his speech at Anshula Kapoor’s wedding reception. The moment happened at the wedding held by the Kapoor family, including Boney Kapoor and Janhvi Kapoor. Arjun spoke about his late mother, Mona Shourie Kapoor, during the celebrations which took place in July. He imagined how much his mother would have loved the festivities and the rain outside reminded him of her. Anshula immediately hugged him as he broke down, highlighting their deep bond. 🥺