🔬 Long Covid linked to reactivated viruses, says research

New research suggests a connection between Long Covid symptoms and the reactivation of dormant viruses. Scientists found this link in studies conducted across various medical institutions. The research was published in a prominent journal on October 26, 2023. This finding adds another layer to understanding the persistent health issues experienced post-infection. Future studies aim to confirm this theory and develop targeted treatments. 🔬

🗳️ BJP deploys heavyweights for 2027 state polls

BJP President Nitin Nabin appointed Vinod Tawde, Satish Poonia, and Tarun Chugh as state in-charges for key states. These leaders will manage Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Gujarat with a view toward the 2027 assembly elections. The appointments were made on August 18, 2026, as the party targets crucial electoral victories. This strategy aims to deploy seasoned organizers where cadre management and electoral strategy are vital. The party signals that the path to 2029 starts with these upcoming 2027 contests.

💰 Gold and Silver Prices Face Fed News

Gold is currently trading around $4,396, consolidating sideways despite being above the August recovery trendline. This price action is occurring while the Federal Reserve minutes are anticipated to influence metal prices. Resistance levels are marked at $4,448 and $4,518, with key support near $4,333. Analysts believe gold remains bullish as long as it stays above the $4,333 support level. A decisive break past $4,448 could lead to further upward movement for the metal. 📈

😠 Kharge slams Amit Shah's political rise

Mallikarjun Kharge publicly criticized Amit Shah regarding his political journey. Kharge stated that when he first became an MLA, Amit Shah was just a child. This jab occurred during a recent political interaction between the two prominent figures. Kharge used this statement to highlight the difference in their political timelines and experience. This exchange signals ongoing political rivalry between the two leaders. 😠

📝 UGC NET 2026 objection window closes today

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is closing the UGC NET June 2026 answer key challenge link today, August 18, as per the official schedule. The objection window was open from August 16 to 18, 2026, for the 84 subjects where provisional answer keys were issued. Candidates can challenge discrepancies by paying a non-refundable fee of Rs 200 per answer key challenged. For the remaining three subjects—English, Commerce, and Sociology—a re-exam is scheduled for September 9 and 10. The final result will be based on the answer key published after all challenges are reviewed.

😠 Kharge slams Shah: 'You were a kid when I started'

Mallikarjun Kharge sharply criticized Home Minister Amit Shah during a public rally in Goa. Kharge asserted that Amit Shah was a child when he first became an MLA, questioning his right to lecture on patriotism. This came after Shah criticized the Congress over the Vande Mataram song during Independence Day. The Congress defended itself, saying Sonia Gandhi asked for a chair for Kharge, not to stop the song. Kharge vowed to keep fighting and exposing the BJP's actions. 🧐

🛡️ Microsoft drops massive security patch this August 🛡️

Microsoft released its August 2026 Patch Tuesday addressing 421 vulnerabilities for Windows systems. These patches include three zero-day flaws and one critical vulnerability exploited by the Lazarus Group. Attackers used a privilege-escalation flaw to gain SYSTEM-level access in the wild. The update also fixes issues in SharePoint and DNS Server infrastructure. Organizations must prioritize these fixes to reduce exposure before exploitation happens.

🏏 Rahul survives LBW drama thanks to Padikkal

KL Rahul narrowly survived a dramatic LBW review after receiving crucial advice from Devdutt Padikkal during the first Sri Lanka Test. This pivotal moment led to an emotional hug and near-kiss between the two teammates on the last ball of the 11th over. The partnership between Rahul and Padikkal marked the fifth instance of two 50-plus stands in the same Test in Sri Lanka. This achievement follows the earlier bowling out of Sri Lanka for 284 on Day 3. Rahul eventually fell later in the innings, despite the narrow escape from dismissal. 🏏

🎬 Abeer-Rohansh on music journey and War 2 vibes

Abeer and Rohansh discussed their work on the film Alpha, noting it feels like a beginning, not an end. Abeer shared his experience as an AD on War 2, praising Hrithik Roshan and finding Jr NTR electrifying. He also mentioned Kiara Advani's kindness during a shoot, emphasizing teamwork's importance. Rohansh shared memories from performing with his father, Jatin-Lalit, at MAMI Film Festival. The brothers are excited to explore the independent music space next. 🎶

📉 Trump's approval rating drops amid Iran tensions

Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen to a low of 33%. This decline is occurring as the conflict with Iran continues to escalate. The latest figures reflect the ongoing geopolitical strain. This low rating is impacting his standing amidst the current international situation. Future developments will likely be watched closely by political analysts. 📉

💍 Anirudh-Kavya wedding buzz in Greece?

Rumours suggest that Anirudh Ravichander and Kavya Maran are planning to tie the knot in Greece. The supposed wedding is reportedly set for November 10, just two days after Diwali. Christopher Kanagaraj is the source claiming this future nuptial event. Despite this, both Anirudh and Kavya have not officially confirmed the marriage details. Anirudh has publicly denied these marriage rumours on several occasions.