🐆 Meghalaya launches mission to save clouded leopards 🐆

Meghalaya has officially launched 'Mission Clouded Leopard' to protect its state animal, the mainland clouded leopard. This initiative was unveiled by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. The mission aims to cover habitat protection, research, and monitoring across areas like Nokrek and Balpakram. Currently, 21 individual clouded leopards have been identified in Balpakram National Park during scientific assessments. The ultimate goal is to secure viable populations while conserving the dependent forest ecosystems.

🗳️ Congress Chief demands contest against Bhagwant Mann in 2027

Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Warring stated his desire to contest the 2027 Assembly polls directly against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. These comments were made while addressing the party during the "Har Booth Congress Mazboot" campaign in Chandigarh. He clarified that the final call rests with Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. This challenge comes amid allegations from within the party that he has a political understanding with AAP leadership. Warring's stance aims to counter narratives from detractors as the party prepares for the election. 🗳️

🚨 COLDCARD phishing attack installs remote access tool

A phishing campaign is exploiting fears from a COLDCARD vulnerability and suspected $88.6 million Bitcoin theft. Proofpoint discovered this attack, which impersonates COLDCARD in emails sent from compliance@coldcardteamnews.com. The attack followed a theft of 1,367 Bitcoin from 4,585 addresses, which happened recently. The fake emails trick users into downloading a tool claiming a security audit is underway, needing completion by August 10. This download installs ScreenConnect, giving attackers remote access to the victim's device.

🏏 India's fielding struggles are a big issue

India's fielding has become a major weak point despite having expert coaches like Dilip and Ryan ten Doeschate. Their catching efficiency has seriously dropped, with Zimbabwe outperforming the Indian team in this regard. Over the past period since June, India dropped 28 catches across international matches, achieving a modest 76.8 per cent efficiency. Frequent personnel changes and player commitment issues are cited as key contributing factors to this decline. This issue will be crucial as India faces Sri Lanka in upcoming Tests, demanding better focus and fitness. 🏏

📉 India's fielding is becoming a major weakness

India's fielding performance has seriously dropped, becoming a major weakness for the team recently. This issue is apparent during tours, notably the disappointing UK trip, where performance dipped significantly. Since June, the men's team has dropped 28 catches across various international fixtures, averaging a modest 76.8% efficiency. Former coach R Sridhar noted that player commitment and frequent personnel changes are key challenges in maintaining high standards. Close-in fielding will be crucial for the upcoming two Tests in Sri Lanka, posing a test for the new coach. 🏏

🚢 Ports automating, DGMA warns about cyber risks 🚢

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has issued a warning regarding cyber threats in ports. This advisory highlights vulnerabilities in systems like terminal operating systems and cargo handling infrastructure across ports. The risks include unauthorized access, malware, and ransomware attacks on these interconnected systems. DGMA advises ports to include cyber security risk assessments in their security plans to boost resilience. Furthermore, regular testing of backup arrangements and personnel awareness is strongly recommended.

🏏 Babar Azam's team wins away Test in Port of Spain

Pakistan secured their first away Test win in three years by defeating the West Indies by eight wickets. This match took place in Port of Spain on Wednesday, concluding a two-match series with a 1-1 scoreline. The win came after Pakistan had an eight-match losing streak in away Tests, marking a comeback. Babar Azam and coach Sarfaraz Ahmed led the team to this success, chasing a target of 75 runs. The victory also moved Pakistan up to eighth place in the World Test Championship standings. 🏏

🎓 Punjab Cabinet greenlights 3 digital universities & fee controls

The Punjab Cabinet approved the establishment of three private digital open universities and cleared bills regarding school fees and outsourced staff. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann led the cabinet in these decisions made on Wednesday. These approvals include Cloud University at Bohan, MS Digital University at Fatehpur, and Physicswallah Digital University at Nandpur Kesho. The fee regulation bill aims to curb unreasonable fee increases by private unaided institutions, easing the financial burden. Next, the government plans to attract quality education providers and streamline business compliance across the state.

💰 Bank fraud: Appraiser held in ₹1.5 crore gold loan scam

Three individuals, including a private bank appraiser, have been detained in connection with a gold loan fraud. The incident occurred in Peenya where they allegedly defrauded the bank using fake jewellery and bogus accounts. The trio is suspected of creating around 15 fake accounts, amounting to approximately ₹1.5 crore in fraudulent loans. The appraiser reportedly received ₹2.5 lakh for every ₹10 lakh loan disbursed during the scheme. The case surfaced after an internal bank audit detected irregularities, leading to the arrests on August 5, 2026. 💰

🏏 Pakistan levels series after West Indies loss

Pakistan beat the West Indies by eight wickets in the second Test in Trinidad to level the two-match series. Previously at the bottom, Pakistan now has two wins in six matches, moving to eighth place in the WTC table. Australia still leads with a 87.50 PCT from eight matches, while Pakistan holds 22.22 PCT. This victory ended Pakistan's eight-match losing streak away from home in test matches. The series is drawn at 1-1, with Pakistan securing an unbeaten run against the West Indies since 2000. 🏏

😠 Bangladesh protests Hasina's media talk in Delhi

Bangladesh issued a strong protest calling Sheikh Hasina's media interaction in New Delhi a "grievous insult" to its sovereignty. This happened after former PM Sheikh Hasina addressed the media virtually from the Indian capital on January 23. Dhaka stated it was outraged that the event proceeded despite prior concerns being conveyed to New Delhi. The government accused Hasina of making remarks against the state and people, damaging bilateral ties. Bangladesh reiterated its desire for a respectful relationship while demanding her extradition.