💧 Kerala promises full water supply to Tamil Nadu from new dam

Kerala assured Tamil Nadu of its commitment to supply all water from the new Mullaperiyar dam, which will replace the current 130-year-old structure. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan made this assurance during the 31st Southern Zonal Council Meeting in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. The commitment was made on Thursday, August 20, 2026, where Kerala offered to cover the new dam's cost. Satheesan also pushed for the Union government to halt mineral block auctions off the Kerala coast pending scientific review. The state is also seeking regional cooperation for its 'Port City' mission. 🌊

💧 Kerala assures full water supply from new Mullaperiyar dam

Kerala has guaranteed Tamil Nadu the full water supply from the planned new Mullaperiyar dam, which will replace the old structure in Idukki district. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan made this assurance during the 31st South Zonal Council Meeting in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, on August 20, 2026. Kerala also stated it would cover the new dam's cost, while Tamil Nadu would handle design, construction, and location. Satheesan also urged the Union government to rethink the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026. Furthermore, he called for stronger inter-state cooperation to tackle narcotics trafficking and cyber threats. 💧

🌍 Taliban builds alliances despite global snub

The Taliban has managed to expand trade and security partnerships across the region without gaining full international recognition. This government operates in Afghanistan, dealing with over 40 diplomatic missions despite international resistance. China is a major partner, heavily involved in mining, while Uzbekistan is signing trade deals worth $520m in 2026. Regional tensions with Pakistan force Kabul to diversify trade via Iran and Central Asia. Western nations keep security talks going, even while major governance issues persist.

🌌 Milky Way Ate a Dwarf Galaxy, Hubble Finds Proof

Astronomers have discovered evidence suggesting the Milky Way galaxy consumed a smaller dwarf galaxy in the distant past. This massive event occurred approximately 11.8 billion years ago, as revealed by observations from the Hubble Space Telescope. The research details the merger process, providing insight into galactic evolution and structure. This discovery helps scientists map the formation history of our own galaxy. Further studies will look closer at the remnants of this ancient cosmic collision.

💙 Soha Ali Khan's blue tea trend revealed

Soha Ali Khan recently shared a video on Instagram stories featuring her sipping a striking blue-colored tea during a flight. This beverage is known as blue tea, which is made from steeping Clitoria ternatea petals in hot water. It is a caffeine-free herbal drink rich in antioxidants, and it changes color to purple when lemon juice is added. Benefits include supporting skin and hair health, aiding in weight loss, and helping stabilize blood sugar levels. This tea has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine for its potential to boost brain function.

🤖 Rajan suggests AI tax amid job worries

Raghuram Rajan proposed a new AI token tax to address upcoming job losses. He suggested this tax would be implemented by the government across India. The proposal advocates for using the revenue to fund worker retraining credits starting from 2025. This move comes as automation continues to impact various sectors of the workforce. Rajan also stressed the need for government support for upskilling initiatives going forward. 🤖

🏥 Kozhikode hospital sees drop in normal births

Normal deliveries are declining while C-section rates remain high at Kozhikode Government Women and Children’s Hospital. Data from 2020-21 to 2025-26 shows a drop from 5,201 total deliveries to 2,238. Despite some dips, C-section percentages stay above the WHO ideal range of 10% to 15%. This trend indicates fewer people are opting for in-patient deliveries at the facility. The Health department is urged to investigate this noticeable decline in hospital admissions. 🏥

📅 NEET UG 2026 counselling schedule updated in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell revised the CAP Round 1 schedule for MBBS and BDS admissions for the 2026-27 academic year. This change was issued via Notice No. 10 on August 19, 2026, due to an extension in the All India Quota counselling. Key dates include online choice filling from August 26 to August 29, 2026, and the final seat allotment on August 30, 2026. Physical joining at the allotted college is scheduled from August 31 to September 4, 2026. Candidates must adhere strictly to these new deadlines for all admission processes. 📝

🚨 CRPF forms senior panel after 59 suicides

The CRPF established a 10-member senior group to prevent self-harm incidents among its personnel. This move followed the force recording 59 suicides in 2025, which is the highest count in the past five years. The National Human Rights Commission took suo motu cognisance on August 14 and demanded a detailed report from the Home Secretary and CRPF DG. Data shows over 77% of these deaths occurred while personnel were on duty. The new group will review cases monthly to suggest welfare and administrative steps for prevention.

❤️ Patients shape future of heart care in Asia Pacific

Edwards Lifesciences hosted its annual Asia-Pacific Patient Experience event to address the growing structural heart disease in the region. This event gathered patients, caregivers, and health professionals across Asia Pacific. With over 80 million worldwide affected, the focus was on patient insights amid rising regional cases. Common themes included unexpected diagnoses and the need for early intervention. These shared stories will directly guide future innovations and patient-centered care. 💖

🏸 BWF addresses Delhi pollution for India Open 🏸

BWF secretary general Thomas Lund commented on the upcoming India Open in Delhi amid pollution concerns. He mentioned that the event is scheduled for February, despite criticisms regarding air quality in the capital. Furthermore, Lund detailed the shift from 21-point to a 15-point format starting January 4, 2027. This change aims to reduce the physical load on players due to increasing competition depth. The BWF hopes for player support as they continue to evolve the sport with technology adoption.