🏏 KKR owners eyeing new entry into The Hundred 🏏

Kolkata Knight Riders' owners are looking at re-entering The Hundred if the tournament expands beyond its current eight teams. The Knight Riders Group previously considered investing in Trent Rockets but stepped back due to perceived overvaluation. The competition could potentially grow to ten teams, with expansion talks pointing towards Durham and the south west of England. A major change is unlikely before the end of 2028, making 2029 a possible start for an expanded format. This expansion would offer KRG a fresh route into English cricket, strengthening their global portfolio.

⛽ E20 petrol row: Chief Economic Adviser suggests blend choice

Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran has called for the government to consider bringing back lower ethanol blends for petrol. This suggestion comes amidst public concerns regarding the impact of the mandatory E20 fuel on vehicles across India. E20, containing 20% ethanol, has been the only option since April 1st, implemented to reduce oil imports. The proposal suggests offering both E20 and a lower blend, like E10, to address consumer worries. This debate is ongoing, especially with older vehicle owners facing potential component issues. ⛽

✈️ Reliance and Rolls-Royce team up for fighter engine

Reliance Industries and Rolls-Royce announced an intention to build a fighter engine for India. This strategic plan is set to explore setting up an 'Aerospace Gas Turbine Complex' in India. The joint statement was issued on August 14, 2026, to develop a sovereign indigenous combat engine for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. This move aims to build self-reliance in India's aerospace industry, according to both companies. The next steps involve exploring this partnership, as it is not yet a formal joint venture or contract. 🚀

💣 Ex-Congresswoman claims Trump team discussed nukes on Iran

Former US Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene alleged that Trump administration officials are discussing the use of nuclear weapons against Iran. This claim was made by Greene on X on Sunday amidst ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran. She stated that discussions were 'real' and that the administration is lowering the nuclear threshold. Greene also argued that US intelligence doesn't show Iran near developing a nuclear weapon. The White House has not yet commented on these serious allegations. 💣

🚗 Jeep Compass 85th Anniversary Edition Drops

Jeep India has launched a special Compass 85th Anniversary Edition to mark the milestone. This limited-run model is available through authorized dealerships or the official website. Only 85 units of this special edition are being offered for sale. It features cosmetic upgrades like gloss-back alloys and Mayan Gold accents, alongside AXS packages. The SUV retains its 2.0-litre diesel engine with 168bhp and continues to offer 4x2 and 4x4 options. 🚗

🗺️ India's massive push to link borders and coasts

India is planning to construct over 5,000 km of highways across its land and maritime frontiers over the next three to five years. This massive initiative will involve potential investments exceeding ₹2 trillion across strategic border regions. The program complements Sagarmala's port connectivity efforts to boost defense mobility and trade. Better roads aim to improve access to markets and services for remote communities. This integrated strategy utilizes the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for holistic development. 🗺️

🛠️ Student builds AI platform to track bribery in India

An Indian B.Tech student developed Bribes.fyi, a free, crowdsourced platform for citizens to report alleged bribery at government offices. Aryan Nishad, from Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology, created the site to track corruption patterns publicly. As of now, the platform has logged 616 reports across 251 cities, with police departments leading the complaints. Users can anonymously submit incidents, and the site offers a searchable database and map view. The platform notes that 38% of reported incidents were refused, providing citizens a tool for transparency. 🛠️

🌴 Kareena and Saif drop vacation vibes on Insta

Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khan shared unseen pictures from their recent holidays with fans. The actress posted the carousel on her Instagram handle this Sunday, celebrating Saif's 56th birthday. The photos showcased their travels, including moments on a boat and by the sea. Kareena called Saif her "forever ride or die," adding that he approved all the shared pictures. The post offered a candid look at their life away from the spotlight. 📸

🏥 BRS wants full services at TIMS, criticizes state govt.

T. Harish Rao, Deputy Floor Leader of BRS, criticized the State Government over TIMS Sanathnagar. He pointed out that the ₹1,000 crore health facility is only offering out-patient services instead of full in-patient care. This criticism was raised on Monday, August 17, 2026. Rao argued that the facility's planning originated under the former KCR government. He claimed the current government is misrepresenting the project's history and timeline.

🏞️ Andhra Company Bags India's First River-Linking Dam Contract

An Andhra-based company secured the contract for India's inaugural river-linking dam project. This significant deal was awarded to the company by the BJP. The contract value is stated to be Rs 60 Crore, with the project initiation tied to recent government allocations. This marks a major step in large-scale water infrastructure development across the nation. The company is now set to proceed with the detailed engineering and execution phases of the project.

😠 School owner tells skipers to 'go to Pakistan'

A school owner in Thrissur, Kerala, sparked controversy after telling students who skipped Independence Day events to 'go to Pakistan.' Dr. Raju Davis of Dr. Raju Davis International School made these remarks via WhatsApp messages after over half the parents didn't send their children. He mentioned spending an extra Rs 1 lakh for buses for the August 15 celebration. The comments led to protests from SFI and KSU, resulting in police action. Davis later issued an apology, explaining his reference to Pakistan was due to historical context. 😟