⛽ India's Russian oil imports hit a new high

India's purchases of Russian crude oil reached a record high in July, making up 87 per cent of its total fossil fuel imports from Russia. This surge happened as Western sanctions on Moscow's energy exports remain tight. For July 2026, India imported Russian crude worth 5.5 billion euros, a 2.1 per cent increase over June. This deepens India's reliance on discounted Russian supplies despite looming tariff threats. Indian refineries are also exporting refined products from this Russian crude to sanctioning nations like the EU and US. ⛽

🇮🇳 Modi addresses nation before Independence Day 2026

Prime Minister Modi issued a special message to all Indians ahead of the Independence Day celebration in 2026. This address was directed to the entire nation, urging citizens to pay tribute to significant figures. The message was delivered as a lead-up to the major national event scheduled for that year. It served to galvanize national spirit and reflect on India's journey thus far. Citizens are expected to observe the tributes as the countdown to 2026 begins.

😔 Couple jumps into canal over marriage issues

A 20-year-old woman died and a 22-year-old man was rescued after jumping into an irrigation canal. The incident occurred near Vendra village in West Godavari district on Monday, August 10, 2026. The girl allegedly asked Sandeep to cancel their marriage citing health issues, leading him to suggest they end their lives together. Sandeep was rescued by locals and is currently receiving treatment in Bhimavaram. Police have registered a case and the investigation is ongoing. 💔

💧 Luxury flats in Noida facing basic utility issues

A woman highlighted severe problems in her luxury high-rise apartment in Greater Noida on Instagram. She noted that flats cost over Rs 2 crore, yet residents struggle with basic water and electricity supply. Water is often unavailable from taps, forcing reliance on tankers, while the swimming pool remains full. Furthermore, the society faces power cuts lasting five to six hours and voltage fluctuations. This experience is making her family consider moving back to a builder-floor property.

😠 Kerala job aspirants protest PSC delays with hunger strikes

Qualified job seekers are protesting severe delays in government appointments from the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC). The protest, led by the All Kerala LPST Rank Holders’ Association in Thiruvananthapuram, saw members symbolically eating grass and soil. This agitation has continued for over 36 days, including a 13-day hunger strike by Association Secretary Valarmathi S. The Education Minister met the protesters on August 11 after the government requested 45 days to review demands. Protesters continue sit-ins until immediate appointments and structural changes are implemented. 😟

🌌 Black holes older than Big Bang could solve dark matter mystery

New research suggests black holes from before the Big Bang might exist in our universe. This possibility, explored by scientists from the University of Portsmouth, could help explain the nature of dark matter. The findings investigate 'cosmic bounce' models instead of a singular Big Bang event. If true, these primordial black holes could offer major clues to cosmology's deepest puzzles. Researchers predict compact objects over 90 meters could survive this transition.

🔭 Total Solar Eclipse 2027 Countdown Starts Now

The countdown has officially begun for the major 2027 total solar eclipse, with roughly 356 days left until the event. Parts of western and southwestern Saudi Arabia will experience this total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027. The Jeddah Astronomical Society reported that Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Yemen, and parts of the Arab world will see this prominent 21st-century event. This marks the first total solar eclipse visible from large western Saudi Arabia in over a century. Scientific and media preparations are currently underway for this spectacular natural phenomenon.

🏡 Indian Middle Class Facing Housing Crisis

Housing costs in India are reaching unaffordable levels for the middle class. This trend is being seen across various urban centers in the country. Property prices have surged, with a 1,000-square-foot home now costing around Rs 1 crore. This escalation is making homeownership a major struggle for salaried individuals. Experts suggest policy changes are needed to address this growing affordability gap. 🏡

🎗️ MasterChef's 'Traumatic' Hair Loss During Chemo

MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria shared a deeply personal experience regarding severe hair loss. This traumatic event occurred while he underwent chemotherapy treatments. The article does not specify exact dates or numbers related to the treatment. He spoke openly about the emotional and physical challenges associated with the process. He continues to share his journey with the public to raise awareness about cancer experiences. 🎗️

🐐 Ex-coach rates Kohli as ultimate GOAT for intensity

Former India fielding coach T Dilip praised Virat Kohli's relentless intensity, stating it pushes other players to their limits. Dilip, whose tenure ended after the England tour, noted Kohli’s consistent high standards in training and matches. This intensity was key during the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph in Barbados. He highlighted Kohli's commitment, even running long-on to long-on during death overs. Moving forward, Dilip advised on crucial fine margins for the upcoming Sri Lanka Test series. 🏏

🕊️ AI must be 'disarmed' for world peace, says Pope

The Dicastery for the Service of Integral Human Development announced the theme for the 60th World Day of Peace on January 1, 2027. Pope Leo XIV selected the theme, “Disarming Technology, Serving Peace: Politics as Preventive Responsibility,” highlighting political responsibility. He warned that no algorithm can make war morally acceptable, referencing his encyclical Magnifica humanitas no. 198. The Pope appeals for shared agreements to protect human responsibility in high-stakes situations. Moving forward, the global community must collaboratively direct AI towards the common good. 🕊️