😠 K. Surendran alleges UDF govt influenced by extremists

BJP national secretary K. Surendran claimed the UDF government in Kerala is operating under the influence of extremist ideologues. He asserted that external forces are pressuring the government's decision-making at various levels across the state. Specifically, he cited the delay in implementing the PM SHRI project as evidence, noting other Congress states have done so. Surendran also alleged opposition to central schemes, pointing to the non-rendition of 'Vande Mataram' at Independence Day functions. He further contrasted the current UDF administration with the LDF, especially regarding the Exalogic case revelations.

⚖️ Turkey issues warrant for Netanyahu over Gaza aid

Turkey has issued an international arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This action is connected to an investigation into Israel's interception of an aid flotilla heading to Gaza. The warrants have also been issued against Netanyahu and other top officials. These legal moves stem from concerns regarding Israel's actions during the ongoing Gaza war. Further developments are expected as this international investigation proceeds.

🤖 Robot nearly breaks during 'Robot Olympics' training

A humanoid robot crashed into a cushioned wall during a training sprint in Beijing, causing sparks to fly from its damaged frame. This incident occurred while preparing for the five-day World Humanoid Robot Games, dubbed the "Robot Olympics." Almost 2,056 machines from 666 teams across 16 countries are set to compete starting August 22. These events test machines under demanding conditions, exposing weaknesses in perception and control. Developers will use these crashes to gather data for improving robots before real-world deployment. 🤖

🎓 DU opens direct PhD route after 4-year UG

Delhi University has launched a direct PhD pathway for students finishing its four-year undergraduate programme (FYUP). This special measure applies to the first batch graduating in 2026 for the 2026-27 academic session. Eligible students need a minimum 7.5 CGPA, or 7 CGPA for SC/ST candidates. The provision aligns the fourth-year curriculum with PhD requirements, removing the mandatory Master's degree. This aims to integrate research into undergraduate education and meet global standards. 🚀

🚫 Centre denies Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance

The Centre denied political clearance for Telangana CM Revanth Reddy’s proposed trip to the United States. The ministry stated that the planned program for the US visit was deemed not appropriate for his office and purpose. This decision was made on Friday, August 21, 2026, by the government body. Meanwhile, the Centre confirmed that Reddy's planned visit to the United Kingdom had received the necessary political clearance. The government noted that such visits are always assessed to align with the dignitary's role. 🧐

⚓ 22 Indians on board two tankers hijacked by pirates

Two commercial vessels carrying 22 Indian crew members were hijacked by armed pirates in separate incidents this week. The Eritrea-flagged MT Sibu 1 was seized off Yemen on August 20, while the Cameroon-flagged M/V LUTUF was hijacked off Somalia's Puntland coast on August 17. The MT Sibu 1 had 16 Indians among 20 crew, and M/V LUTUF had six Indians among 10. Both vessels remain under pirate control, and no injuries have been reported so far. The hijackers are suspected of involvement in prior incidents and steered one tanker towards Somalia's Nugaal coast. 🚢

🤢 Mumbai club's food license scrapped by FDA

The Bombay Presidency Radio Club had its food business license suspended by the Maharashtra FDA following a hygiene inspection. This action was directed by Maharashtra Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on August 19, 2026, in Colaba. Inspectors found major violations, including a dead cockroach and active flies in the kitchen. The club also had chemical storage near food and kept utensils directly on the floor. The establishment must cease all food activities until compliance is met. 🤢

😠 Pixel 11's Extreme Charging mode is stuck

The highly anticipated Extreme Charging mode on the Pixel 11 is not working for some users. This issue was reported by a senior writer in France after testing multiple Pixel 11 and 11 Pro models. Despite trying various high-wattage chargers and cables, the toggle remains greyed out and unavailable across all tested devices. The feature is supposed to offer an ultra-fast charge, like getting to 55% in 30 minutes. The writer has contacted Google to find out if this is a bug or some unknown requirement.

🎬 Age-gap romance shines in Bethlehem Kudumba Unit

Girish AD's Bethlehem Kudumba Unit showcases an understated romance rooted in everyday life. The story unfolds in Mundakayam, Kerala, where Ashley (Mamitha Baiju) moves to Ernakulam. Her introduction to Justin (Nivin Pauly), who is in his mid-30s, sparks an unlikely connection. The film explores this age-gap relationship layer by layer through small, awkward daily moments. Ultimately, the movie beautifully proves that love doesn't always need to follow conventional norms.

🧐 Centre denies ethanol link to sugar price hike

The Centre refuted claims linking the recent rise in sugar prices to sugarcane diversion for ethanol production. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs stated that diverted share has actually dropped from 12% in 2022-23 to 9% in 2025-26. Sugar prices jumped from Rs 48.18 per kg on 20 July 2026 to Rs 55.70 per kg on 20 August 2026. The government attributes the increase to lower domestic output, demand, and global supply issues. Measures like stock limits and duty-free imports are being implemented to stabilize the market. 📉

🐸 Frog mislabeled in museum for over a century

A widespread frog in western Ecuador and southern Colombia was wrongly identified for over a century. Researchers found this out after examining 19th-century type specimens at the Natural History Museum in London. These specimens revealed that populations labeled Pristimantis subsigillatus were actually a different species. The new species has now been formally described as Pristimantis milpe, spanning over 67,000 square kilometres. This discovery shows how old museum records can correct long-standing scientific errors. 🐸