🌧️ Kerala floods worsen as rain batters the state

Heavy rain continued to hit Kerala, causing widespread waterlogging and leading to more evacuations. Local authorities confirmed that additional relief camps were opened across affected areas. Schools remained closed in 10 districts on Wednesday due to the persistent downpour. The IMD warned of continued heavy rainfall and strong winds in several districts. Residents are advised to stay safe and avoid risky areas until the weather warning is lifted.

📰 Modi govt spent Rs 910 cr on print ads

The Narendra Modi government spent Rs 910.4 crore on print media advertisements from 2020-21 to 2024-25. This spending was detailed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in the Lok Sabha in response to a Congress MP's question. Times of India received the most, amounting to Rs 78.22 crore, followed by Dainik Jagran and Hindustan Times. The data shows a big spend increase leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. These ads are for welfare schemes, but opposition claims they boost BJP propaganda. 🧐

🌧️ Kerala floods: Govt rolls out big aid for victims

The Kerala Cabinet announced ₹8 lakh financial aid for the relatives of those killed in recent torrential rains and floods. This devastating event occurred across parts of the state, with the death toll reaching 26 and four people still missing. Currently, 27,048 people are housed in 462 relief camps across various districts. The government also increased compensation for damaged houses and introduced a soft loan scheme for MSMEs. Further relief includes ₹10,000 for waterlogged residents and ₹10,000 for final rites. 🌊

📉 India's new stock closing price system causes trader jitters

India has implemented a new closing price system for its stock market, leading to confusion among traders. This change affects participants across the country's exchanges. The new system was rolled out on a specific date, though the exact numbers are under review. The modification aims to streamline market operations but has created uncertainty. Regulators are expected to provide further clarity on the system's implications soon. 📉

📈 Asia stocks surge as tech bounces back

Asian stock markets experienced a significant rally following positive movements in Wall Street. This upward trend was largely driven by a rebound in the technology sector across the region. The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) notably hit a new record high on the reported day. This positive sentiment reflects broader investor confidence returning to the Asian markets. Analysts expect this momentum to continue as global economic indicators stabilize in the coming weeks. 📈

🐕 North Korea suggests dog meat soup for summer heat

North Korea's state media recommended dog meat soup to help people cope with the intense summer heatwave. This advice was published by Rodong Sinmun in Pyongyang as part of guidance on handling extreme temperatures. The heatwave sees temperatures soaring above 40°C in parts of the peninsula, with tropical nights recorded since July 27th. While the soup is promoted as a traditional health food, it remains a pricey item for many North Koreans. South Korea, meanwhile, has implemented a law banning dog meat consumption starting in 2027. 🐕

🌍 El Niño threatens millions with severe hunger

A strong El Niño event is projected to push an additional 49 million people into acute hunger, according to a United Nations agency report. This grim forecast covers regions across the globe where climate patterns are shifting rapidly. The report highlights potential impacts across various developing nations, citing current climate data. The extreme weather conditions associated with El Niño are intensifying food insecurity worldwide. International bodies are now urged to increase aid and implement resilience strategies moving forward. 🌍

🧐 Meta's Legal Shield in Hot Water

Safe Harbour is a legal concept providing immunity to online platforms for user-generated content. Meta's use of this shield is currently under significant legal scrutiny. Specific details regarding the threat are still developing across various jurisdictions. This legal framework has been crucial for the company's operations in the digital space. The outcome of these challenges will heavily influence future content moderation policies. 🧐

🪙 Tamil Nadu budget drops gold coins and more

The Tamil Nadu government announced an eight-gram gold coin and a silk saree for brides in the Assembly on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Finance Minister Marie Wilson detailed these plans as part of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam's election promise. ₹812 crore has been allocated for the wedding gift scheme, while 12 integrated homes for seniors will be set up initially. Furthermore, 500 Anganwadi centres will be built, and 'Aran' shelter homes for trans people are planned. This massive social welfare push involves a total allocation of ₹9,818 crore for the department. 👵

📱 iPhone 18 Pro and Foldable iPhone coming next month

Apple is preparing to launch the iPhone 18 Pro series and its debut foldable iPhone next month. This major event will feature the Pro and Pro Max models in September, while standard and entry-level versions are slated for March 2027. A Bloomberg report suggests the launch might happen around September 9th, coinciding with the transition under new CEO John Ternus. The event is also rumored to include new Apple Watches alongside the latest hardware. This unveiling marks the first big product debut under the new leadership. 📱

📚 Artist contracts: Red flags to watch out for 🚩

This book guides early-career artists through complex negotiations and contract pitfalls in the industry. It advises against vague agreements and unilateral renewal clauses, emphasizing written clarity for all terms. Artists should push for regular payments and control over the final cut of their work. Contracts require specific sections like parties' names, recitals, and consideration for validity. Proper stamping procedures are crucial for agreements in India. 💼