🏛️ Kerala CM asks PM to rethink mining bill changes

Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging a relook at the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. This bill, passed by Parliament, aims to restrict State taxation powers over mineral rights and mineral-bearing lands across India. The amendments, which include Section 9D, impact fiscal powers, especially for mineral-rich states like Kerala. Satheesan stressed that this threatens the federal balance and State fiscal autonomy, contradicting 2024 Supreme Court rulings. He requested the Prime Minister's intervention to ensure national policy creation respects constitutional fiscal powers.

🧐 Diageo tweaking brands after FSSAI rules

Diageo is planning to reformulate several of its popular brands following strict guidelines from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This change affects Royal Challenge, Antiquity Blue, and McDowell’s. The crackdown by FSSAI has prompted these adjustments across the company's product line. This move ensures compliance with the latest food safety regulations in India. The rollout of these new formulations is expected in the coming months. 🧐

✊ VCK aims to rule Tamil Nadu, says Thirumavalavan

VCK president Thol. Thirumavalavan stated that the Election Commission of India-recognised VCK must become a ruling force in Tamil Nadu. He made this statement at a 'Tamil nationalist' public rally held in Ulundurpet in Kallakurichi district. The VCK is currently allied with Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, and 125 resolutions were passed at the conference. The party demands genuine State autonomy and the creation of a separate Tamil Eelam. The VCK is pushing for constitutional amendments to boost the state's powers in various sectors.

🏛️ Kozhikode anthem row: Police record UDF leader's statement

Police recorded the statement of UDF leader S.V. Mohammed Shameel Thangal regarding the anthem controversy. This incident took place at the Kozhikode Corporation during the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony. Complaints were filed by LDF leader K. Rajeev, BJP councillor Navya Haridas, and others on August 17. The disputes center on alleged insults to the national anthem during the simultaneous singing of Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram. Assistant Commissioner T.K. Asharaf is currently investigating the complaints, and no FIR has been registered yet. 🧐

🤕 Babar Azam out of first England Test due to injury

Babar Azam is sidelined for the first Test against England after sustaining a hand injury. This happened during a tour match on Saturday while batting against a Professional County Club Select XI. The injury, which occurred from a delivery by Manny Lumsden, is expected to keep him out for the Test starting in Leeds on Wednesday. Either Shan Masood or Salman Agha is in consideration to captain the team in his absence. The final decision will be made by Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi. 🤕

⚖️ Tax drama over Messi visit heats up in Kerala

The Kerala GST department has recommended disciplinary action against senior tax officials. This action is related to the failure to collect GST during the unsuccessful bid to host Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team. The lapses involve an alleged shortfall of ₹22.68 crore in GST from the sponsoring television channel. A five-member Special Investigation Team had been formed based on a report from the Secretary, Sports. The GST Commissioner has now submitted these recommendations to the State government for further steps.

🚨 Haryana BJP IT Chief Removed Amid Arrest Calls

The IT cell chief of the Haryana BJP was removed from his post. This action took place in Haryana, following public pressure on social media. Specifically, there were calls for his arrest circulating on Twitter. The removal comes amid ongoing political scrutiny regarding his activities. Future developments related to this political fallout remain uncertain.

🚀 United Launch Alliance appoints new CEO

United Launch Alliance has officially named Mark Peller as its new Chief Executive Officer. This leadership change is taking place at the company's headquarters. The appointment was finalized in early 2024. Peller brings extensive experience in the aerospace industry to the role. The company anticipates further growth under his guidance moving forward.

✅ AP Health Minister: No COVID Clusters Found

The Health Minister stated there is no evidence of COVID-19 spreading in clusters across Andhra Pradesh. This was announced on Monday, August 17, 2026, confirming the state's current low spread level. From January 1 to August 15 this year, the state recorded 74 cases out of 2,554 nationally. Of those 74 patients across 17 districts, 56 recovered, 10 are hospitalized, and four passed away. Officials confirmed all necessary testing and medical supplies are available for ongoing monitoring.

😟 $100k H-1B fee might make US lose tech talent

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi warned that a proposed $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas could seriously hurt US competitiveness. This Illinois Democrat stated that businesses would have to choose between hiring talent in the US or shifting jobs overseas. He noted that Indian nationals received 71% of all H-1B visas in fiscal year 2024, making the impact significant. Krishnamoorthi argued this fee acts as a tax on skilled workers who build the US economy. He urged policymakers to fix the legal immigration system to prevent this talent drain. 😟

🏏 Suthar vs Jadeja: Different styles, same wicket threat

Manav Suthar showcased his bowling skills in Sri Lanka's first innings in Galle. He played for India, and his performance was noted on Monday. In his first spell, Suthar picked up 2 wickets for 13 runs. His old-school left-arm orthodox style seems perfect for Sri Lankan pitches. He is proving there is still a place for classic spin in modern Test cricket. 🏏