🦠 Leptospirosis cases jump 125x in Telangana

Leptospirosis cases have seen a massive surge in Telangana over the last two years. This significant rise was recorded in the state of Telangana, Hyderabad. Confirmed infections jumped from just two in 2023 to 249 in 2025, with 101 cases reported by June this year. The increase is attributed to erratic rainfall, urban flooding, and poor drainage affecting water contamination. Experts strongly advise avoiding stagnant floodwater and seeking immediate medical care after exposure. 🦠

🧑‍🎓 Jharkhand youth fight for job exam fairness

For Adivasi youth, competitive exams are a vital way to gain a voice within the governing system. Sarita Munda, from a village near Latehar, moved to Ranchi to prepare for government jobs like JPSC and JSSC. In 2026, she is part of a student movement demanding credible recruitment after facing exam cancellations and irregularities since 2024. These jobs offer a path out of limited opportunities and reliance on agricultural work for many families. The protest in Ranchi has now entered its 16th day, highlighting deep-seated issues of inclusion. 🧑‍🎓

🐶 Science edits dog genes for allergy sufferers

Scientists have successfully used gene-editing techniques to breed a dog that will not trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals. This breakthrough research was conducted by researchers at a major university in the United States. The process involved modifying canine DNA to eliminate specific allergens present in the dog's coat and saliva. This innovative method offers a potential solution for pet owners who suffer from severe allergies. Further studies are planned to test the efficacy and safety of this genetic modification in various dog breeds. 🐶

🦟 New mosquito spotted in Bengal, dengue watch on

The West Bengal Health Department has heightened surveillance after finding a new Aedes mosquito species in the state. This species, Aedes lineatopennis, was first detected in West Bengal by officials. As of the end of July, the state had reported six dengue cases, with details uploaded nationally. The presence of this new vector increases potential dengue risk, though no immediate alarm is warranted. Regular review meetings are ongoing, with the next state meeting set for August 17. 🦟

🛡️ Iran's take on Saudi-Pakistan-Turkiye defense pact

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan expanded their mutual defense pact to include Turkiye in Mecca on Friday. This trilateral agreement states any external attack on one country will be considered an attack on all three nations. The pact comes after a US and Israel bombing campaign against Iran, which spread into the Gulf region. Iranian officials view it as a sign of declining US security hegemony in West Asia. However, some analysts worry it could facilitate coordinated pressure against Iran in Yemen and Iraq. 🧐

🌠 Perseids meteor shower hits northern sky this week ✨

The Perseid meteor shower is set to offer amazing viewing conditions across the northern hemisphere this week. This celestial event peaks on Wednesday night into Thursday morning, aligning with a total solar eclipse in Spain, Iceland, and Greenland. Under ideal conditions, NASA estimates 50 to 100 meteors per hour could be visible during this period. The meteors originate from debris left by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which orbits the sun every 133 years. The new moon phase during the peak will further enhance the spectacular night sky show.

🚨 Kerala Commentator Detained Over Offensive Video Remarks

Right-wing commentator TG Mohandas was detained by Thiruvananthapuram Cyber Police from his Mattancherry house. The arrest followed allegations regarding remarks made in his YouTube video concerning the Jantar Mantar protest in Delhi. In the video, Mohandas allegedly claimed some girls at the protest 'enjoy being raped' and that no complaints would follow. The FIR registered by the Thiruvananthapuram Cyber Police cites his content as intended to disturb public peace and create unrest. Authorities are now investigating the digital devices used to create and upload the controversial content. 🚨

🚀 NASA shifts HALO and Canadarm3 for moon base

NASA has paused the Gateway lunar-orbit station, prompting a shift in focus for key partner projects. Northrop's HALO and Canada's Canadarm3 are now being considered for sustained lunar-surface operations. NASA stopped the HALO work in April 2026 due to corrosion issues, despite the module's $1.9 billion contract value. Meanwhile, Canada continues adapting Canadarm3 technology with $6.7 million budgeted for 2026–27. Final mission assignments for these repurposed systems are yet to be determined by NASA. 🚀

🌕 South Korea's orbiter snaps SpaceX lunar impact pics

South Korea's Danuri orbiter successfully captured the first before-and-after images of a SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage hitting the Moon. This impact occurred on August 5th at approximately 2:34 a.m. EDT, creating a crater estimated up to 27 meters wide. The images released on August 6th show a darkened patch and scattered material around the site. These paired observations will help researchers study the terrain changes and ejecta spread from the collision. NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter is set to follow up on the site soon. 🚀

🐍 Early Snakes Went Underground, On Land & Sea

Early snakes showed diverse lifestyles, inhabiting underground, terrestrial, and aquatic environments. Scientists at phys.org conducted research to understand these ancient reptiles. The study highlights evidence spanning various geological periods concerning snake evolution. This exploration provides insight into how reptiles adapted to different ecosystems early in their history. Future research aims to map out the full migratory patterns of these primordial snakes. 🐍

🦈 Sharks are now real-time ocean data collectors

Scientists are turning sharks into mobile observers by attaching specialized electronic tags that gather critical marine data. Led by Aaron Carlisle, the research team is deploying these tags on sharks along the US East Coast. The sensors collect vital information like temperature and salinity, feeding directly into climate models. This helps map the upper ocean layer, which fuels hurricane intensity. The tagging process is executed with precision during offshore expeditions.