🌧️ Minor mudslides spotted near Kerala tunnels

Two minor mudslips were reported above the Kuthiran twin tunnels on National Highway 544 on Friday. District Collector Shikha Surendran, MLA K. Rajan, and officials inspected the site in the western side of the tunnels. These incidents occurred amid continuing monsoon rain, and the slips were deemed minor. Authorities confirmed there is no current traffic disruption as the debris remains trapped between rock faces. NHAI engineers and the Forest Department will conduct a detailed inspection to check the slope's stability.

🧠 Fast walkers keep brains healthy, study reveals

Super movers are defined as individuals who can walk much faster than their aging peers. A study found that these fast walkers are about half as likely to experience cognitive decline. This research focused on the benefits of maintaining a high pace as people age. The findings highlight the importance of regular, vigorous physical activity for brain health. Therefore, becoming a 'super mover' is linked to a healthier mind in later years.

😠 CM rejects all-party meet on Cauvery water row

CM C Joseph Vijay rejected the DMK's demand for an all-party meeting concerning the Mekedatu Dam and Cauvery water dispute. This decision was made in New Delhi, addressing opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's request. The issue has been ongoing, with the DMK demanding a resolution for the people's livelihood. Vijay asserted his government will pursue the matter through legal means without political drama. Next, the ruling party remains firm on protecting Tamil Nadu's water rights. 😠

💹 Jefferies shifts Indian portfolio focus

Christopher Wood is removing HDFC Bank and PolicyBazaar from his India long-only model portfolio. These stocks are being replaced by Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) and Lenskart Solutions in his GREED & fear report. MCX and Lenskart will each have a 4% weighting, alongside other changes like swapping REC for Bajaj Finance. This reshuffle happens amidst mixed Indian equity performance and strong domestic credit growth. Wood anticipates rupee stabilization due to current capital inflows and RBI policy decisions. 📈

🎓 Punjab Cabinet greenlights digital universities & fee rules 📚

The Punjab Cabinet approved several major decisions aimed at boosting education and improving governance on August 05, 2026. Three new Digital Open Universities—Cloud, MS Digital, and Physicswallah—were greenlit for establishment across the state. The Cabinet also passed a bill to regulate unreasonable fee hikes by private un-aided educational institutions. Furthermore, the Punjab State Outsourced Personnel Transition to Contractual Engagement Bill, 2026 was approved. These moves are set to bring quality education and better fee oversight to Punjab.

🏍️ New Pulsar 150 spotted with big upgrades 🏍️

The new generation Bajaj Pulsar 150 has been spotted in showrooms ahead of an official launch. This updated model features a revised fascia with new LED lights and a major switch to a mono-shock rear suspension. The bike now boasts an oil-cooling setup for its engine, which previously was air-cooled. It also includes a colour LCD cluster with navigation capabilities, similar to the new Pulsar 125. Bajaj is expected to unveil the full range of variants soon, potentially including dual-channel ABS.

👴 Madhavan on aging naturally, inspired by Rajinikanth & Ajith

R Madhavan shared that he never dyes his hair unless a character demands it, embracing natural aging. This decision comes from his comfort with his authentic self, saying, "Ab safed baal aa gaye toh aa gaye." His perspective was significantly shaped by observing Rajinikanth and Ajith Kumar's off-screen personas. Madhavan emphasized that his focus is on improving his craft, not competing with younger actors. This approach reflects his shift towards diverse roles, like in his latest film 'G.D.N.'.

😔 Delhi man allegedly drowns pregnant daughter in Chambal river

A man from Delhi is accused of drowning his pregnant daughter in the Chambal river. The incident reportedly took place in the Chambal river area. No specific numbers or dates were mentioned in the initial report regarding the incident. The man allegedly touched her feet and held her underwater before the drowning occurred. Authorities are currently investigating the matter to determine the full sequence of events. 😔

☔ Kerala schools closed due to heavy rain warning 🌧️

District Collectors in eight Kerala districts declared a holiday for all educational institutions on Friday, August 7. The holiday covers Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod. IMD forecasts very heavy rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm in 24 hours across several areas. This comes after intense rain caused floods and landslides, displacing over 11,000 people. Public and university exams will still go ahead as scheduled despite the weather advisory.

🌟 'Thudakkam' reviews praise Vismaya Mohanlal debut

Jude Anthany Joseph's film 'Thudakkam' has premiered in theatres, generating early buzz around Vismaya Mohanlal's acting debut. The movie stars Vismaya Mohanlal alongside Ashish Joe Antony, with Mohanlal making a special appearance. Initial social media reactions are largely positive, highlighting Vismaya's performance and Ashish's presence. One viewer noted that the slow start leads to a suspenseful mystery thriller experience. A special tribute card dedicated to Mohanlal also garnered significant attention from the audience. 🎬

🏥 Jharkhand exam protests hit 14 days; protester hospitalized

A protest against exam irregularities by the Jharkhand Government has entered its 14th day at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi. Students and aspirants are demanding the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand PSC Civil Services Examination and an independent probe. One key protester, Rahul Kranti, was hospitalized on August 7, 2026, after his health declined during a hunger strike. This agitation began on July 25 under the banner of the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch. A five-member government panel, including Dipika Pandey Singh, is expected to meet with the demonstrators soon.