📚 ITI/Polytechnic holders can join UG courses in Kerala

The Kerala government has decided that ITI and polytechnic holders can enroll in undergraduate programs without a Plus Two certificate. This decision was made following a recommendation from the Kerala State Higher Education Council. Under the new rules, ITI holders can enter the first year of a four-year UG program. Meanwhile, those with a three-year polytechnic diploma can opt for lateral entry into the second year. This change means Class 10 pass plus ITI/polytechnic is now enough for UG admission. 📚

🤖 ChatGPT gives free users unlimited text chats

OpenAI is rolling out a major update for its free and Go tier ChatGPT users next week. These users will no longer face rate limits for unlimited text chats, though limits on file uploads and images will remain. Additionally, a 'Think' button will be added for these users to access higher reasoning for complex questions. This week, the default AI model for free users is being upgraded to GPT-5.6 Luna. Plus and Pro subscribers will receive the factually improved GPT-5.6 Sol starting Thursday.

🌧️ Ernakulam braces for more rain with review meeting

Fishing boats are returning to shore after heavy rainfall hit several parts of Ernakulam on Thursday, August 6, 2026. The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert, warning of very heavy rain across the district. Automatic stations recorded 3 cm rainfall near Aluva, while Kochi airport got 2 cm. Aluva MLA Anwar Sadath reviewed emergency preparedness, strengthening response systems based on 2018 flood lessons. Departments are now coordinating efforts, and relief camp locations are being identified for potential needs.

🛑 Idukki zipline shut down over illegal operation

The Idukki District Collector, Dineshan Cheruvatt, ordered the immediate closure of a zipline venture. This venture was owned by M.M. Lambodaran, brother of M.M. Mani, located in Iruttukanam near Adimaly. Despite a ban due to severe weather and landslides, revenue officials found the firm operating illegally. Adimaly police intervened, stopped the operations, and booked the owner for the violation. The Collector has since directed strict enforcement of this shutdown order.

🧶 PM Modi asks for support for Indian weavers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on people to buy handloom products and share supporting videos on National Handloom Day. He highlighted the August 7 observance, connecting it to the historic Swadeshi movement started on August 7, 1905. The Prime Minister emphasized that public backing is crucial for aiding weaver families who create diverse handwoven fabrics. He encouraged citizens to purchase at least one item and post a video to inspire others. This effort supports the goal of building an Atmanirbhar Bharat for all families. 🧶

🏥 Hostel workers demand CID probe over food poisoning

The Karnataka State Government Hostel and Residential Schools Contract Workers’ Association has called for a CID probe into food poisoning incidents at Dandoti and Karajagi residential schools. This demand comes from the association in Kalaburagi district, where students fell ill after eating meals. The incident details involve Morarji Desai Residential Schools, with allegations that officials are being shielded from accountability. The union leader also mentioned an indefinite protest planned from August 11 to push their demands. This action seeks to prevent future health scares in government residential schools. 🏥

🎬 Golmaal 5 makers deny release date rumors

The makers of the movie Golmaal 5 have officially dismissed various circulating rumors regarding its release date. This statement was made by the production team, addressing speculation in the media landscape. As of now, there are no confirmed dates or specific timelines announced for the film's premiere. The makers emphasized that the rumors were entirely false and without any solid basis in reality. Fans will have to wait for an official announcement from the production house moving forward.

🎬 Ramayana trailer blows minds in Pakistan

The highly anticipated Ramayana trailer was released on July 30, sparking massive reactions across social media, including in Pakistan. Pakistani YouTubers were impressed by the detail, praising scenes like Ravana's character and the VFX improvements over previous portrayals. They defended the estimated ₹4000 crore budget, stating that filmmakers have investors, not just individual audiences. The film, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is set for a two-part release on Diwali 2026 and in 2027. Ranbir Kapoor stars as Lord Ram, with Yash as Ravana, promising grand scale action. 🤩

🤔 Trump's Iran Standoff: No Clear Way Out

Donald Trump appears trapped in a difficult geopolitical situation regarding Iran. He is facing a complex dilemma concerning the ongoing relationship with the nation. The current situation involves escalating tensions without a defined exit strategy as of now. This predicament stems from past policy decisions and regional dynamics. Future moves depend heavily on diplomatic maneuvers or further military actions.

🚢 Iran looks at bill to stop US/Israel ships in Hormuz

An Iranian parliamentary committee is currently reviewing a draft bill aimed at banning ships from the US and Israel from entering the Strait of Hormuz. This move was reported by Fars News Agency, detailing the legislative discussion. The bill aims to enforce stricter maritime restrictions in this critical waterway. The proposal comes amid ongoing regional tensions and geopolitical friction. The next steps involve further debate and potential parliamentary approval of the draft. 🚢

🏞️ UCSB student found dead after solo hike in California

UC Santa Barbara PhD student Vikram Mubayi was discovered deceased in the Inyo National Forest. He went missing while on a solo hiking trip in the Big Pine Lakes area of California. His last known contact was on the evening of August 1, and he was found on August 3. Authorities are investigating the circumstances, though no foul play has been indicated. The investigation continues after his body was recovered from Big Pine Lakes. 😔