🚁 Laser-powered drones stay cool with nanorods

Researchers developed a heat-blocking tech using antimony selenide nanorods for laser-powered drones. The team at Civil Aviation University of China integrated these nanorods into a perovskite laser cell-thermoelectric device. Under a 520 nm green laser, the prototype converted 38.49% of the energy into electricity while mitigating high temperatures. This system-level application moves light-based UAV power from theory to practical engineering design. Next, the team plans outdoor flight testing and accurate laser tracking for real-world use. 🔋

🚗 2026 Skoda Slavia facelift: powertrain breakdown

The 2026 Skoda Slavia facelift has been unveiled with refreshed looks and a new 8-speed torque converter automatic for the 1-litre TSI engine. This updated sedan will be available in six variants, including Classic, Signature, and Monte Carlo. The car features both 1-litre and 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engines, with expected pricing between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 18 lakh. Safety is boosted with a 360-degree camera, while it maintains its previous 5-star Global NCAP rating. Skoda plans to launch the new Slavia sometime early next month. 🚗

😠 Vinesh Phogat calls Brij Bhushan a 'goon and criminal'

Vinesh Phogat fiercely attacked former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, branding him a "goon and a criminal." She made these strong remarks in Jind while criticizing Singh amidst ongoing wrestlers' protests. These comments follow the 2023 high-profile wrestlers' protest involving Singh. Phogat further alleged that the BJP supports Singh, who is accused of using money for atrocities against women. She declared her intent to fight these issues, including land encroachment, in the Supreme Court. 😠

🛡️ UAE on alert after missile threat detection

The United Arab Emirates issued a brief alert on Tuesday after its air defence system detected potential missile threats directed towards the country. The Interior Ministry advised all residents to immediately move to a safe location within the nearest secure building due to the security situation. This alert marked the first such warning in several months, following false alarms in June and July. The incident occurs amid heightened security concerns in the Gulf region. Authorities have not yet provided details on the threat's origin or if any missiles struck UAE territory. 🛡️

📚 NTA upgrades exam checks after big glitches

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has taken major steps to improve exam quality by removing 600 experts. This was discussed in a follow-up review meeting on Tuesday with Education Minister Pralhad Joshi in New Delhi. The agency is now implementing a four-tier scrutiny system for all question papers and bringing in 20-25 new officials soon. This overhaul comes after serious defects led to the cancellation of the June 2026 UGC-NET papers. NTA is also strengthening its security and hiring private-sector specialists for key roles.

🛡️ NTA gets major security overhaul after exam leaks

The government announced a massive overhaul of the NTA examination system following recent leaks and issues. Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi directed the removal of 600 experts and the implementation of a 4-tier paper checking process. These changes are happening as of Tuesday, amid controversies like the NEET-UG leak and UGC-NET issues. NTA offices will be relocated to new premises with CISF security for enhanced safety. Joshi also ordered a 30-day audit report on all examination processes.

✨ Pixel Screenshots get major update with new filters

The Screenshots app on Pixel 11 devices now features new filtering options alongside Journal and Recorder. Users can now sort screenshots by date range, sources, and collections, going beyond just tags. Available date ranges include 24 hours, 7 days, 30 days, 6 months, 1 year, and Custom. These enhanced filters complement the existing text search functionality within the main feed and Collections. Version 1.26.281.05 is rolling out today via the Play Store for Pixel 10 devices.

🚨 Cops Refused Relief in Child Baiting Case

A Delhi court dismissed a revision plea, upholding charges against four Gujarat Police officers. These officers were accused of using a minor boy as bait to locate his father in a kidnapping attempt. The incident dates back to May 25, 2008, when the child was allegedly taken from Delhi to Ahmedabad. The court strongly criticized the officers for acting like 'colonial overlords' instead of performing their duty. Consequently, the officers could face charges for the alleged kidnapping. 👮

🛣️ KSHRC demands better roads for tribal areas

The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) has ordered authorities to improve road connectivity in tribal settlements. Justice Alexander Thomas directed immediate clearance for a ₹9.25-crore project to rebuild the Chilanthiyar–Ullavayal road near Vattavada. This action followed a suo motu case registered in July 2025 after a tribal woman needed a 6km bamboo trek for medical aid. Reports indicated ₹7 lakh from the panchayat fund and ₹25 lakh sanctioned under CMLRRP for road work. The Commission also mandated better healthcare and education facilities for the tribal population.

🚨 AAP leader arrested in Delhi Jal Board scam

Satyendar Jain and five others were arrested in connection with a Rs 1.52 crore tender scam at the Delhi Jal Board. The arrests were made by the Anti-Corruption Branch on Tuesday, involving former Delhi Jal Board CEO Udit Prakash Rai. The case stems from an FIR registered on May 11, 2024, regarding irregularities in the sewage treatment plant tendering process. Investigators found the tender conditions were manipulated to favor Euroteck Environment Pvt Ltd. Further investigation into the money trail and the roles of other individuals is currently underway. 💰

🏛️ Karnataka legislature deadlock continues over minister's ouster

The stalemate in the Karnataka Legislature regarding the Opposition's demand for Minister B. Nagendra's resignation extended into its second day. This conflict occurred in both the Assembly and Legislative Council in Karnataka, with high-decibel protests from BJP and JD(S) members. The opposition alleged misuse of funds through 600 bank accounts, citing CBI and ED charge sheets against him. The Congress government insisted the Opposition must formally submit a notice to debate the matter. The Speaker eventually allowed other agenda items to proceed despite the ongoing political tension. 😠