🕊️ Modi tells Putin to stop Ukraine war

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin at the SCO summit in Bishkek. Modi urged for an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, stressing the need for peace and dialogue between the two leaders. The leaders also discussed bilateral trade and defence cooperation during their visit. Separately, India's first-quarter GDP grew by 7.8 percent, fueled by domestic consumption and exports. Meanwhile, tensions rose in West Asia following US airstrikes on Iranian installations. 🕊️

🏥 Key medical posts vacant in TN government hospitals

Several crucial positions in Tamil Nadu's government medical college hospitals are either vacant or managed through additional-charge arrangements. This situation affects major institutions like RGGGH and SMCH, which oversee critical specialties. As of August 31, 2026, roles in the Directorate of Medical Education and Research are also interim. Doctors argue this trend undermines authority and slows down patient care decisions. Officials have stated that the process to fill these important posts is currently underway. 🏥

🚨 Porn apps can hack phones and empty bank accounts

The Home Ministry's cybercrime unit warned that malware-laced porn apps can seize control of user phones. This advisory specifically warns against apps like Night Play, Reloop, Kyss, Vimo, Rivo, Nexo, and Vixa. These apps are being promoted via Facebook and Instagram ads, tricking users into downloading risky APK files. Once installed and given permissions, malware can monitor traffic, compromise data, and enable unauthorized bank transactions. Users are advised not to click suspicious ads or grant accessibility permissions. ⚠️

🏝️ Kerala revamps GIDA council structure

The government has reconstituted the general council of the Goshree Islands Development Authority (GIDA). Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan is now chairing the council, which includes various MLAs and local body heads from Ernakulam. The major ongoing work is building the outer bund for Thanthonnithuruthu Island, which started after KCZMA clearance on February 28, 2025. This project aims to curb coastal erosion and frequent flooding near Ernakulam and Mulavukad. GIDA, established in May 1994, now manages development across nine island areas.

🤒 Anna Hazare in ICU with severe infection

Social activist Anna Hazare has been admitted to the ICU at Bombay Hospital in Mumbai. His condition worsened while receiving treatment near his native village, Ralegan Siddhi, in Maharashtra. He is currently being closely monitored by Dr Gautam Bhansali as of August 31, 2026. The octogenarian developed a severe viral infection accompanied by acute dehydration. Doctors are conducting tests to decide on the next course of treatment for him. 🤒

🏛️ Kozhikode Mayor vows to protect market funds

Kozhikode Mayor O. Sadasivan has assured steps to prevent the diversion of Central Market modernization funds. The issue was raised by BJP councillor N. Sivaprasad during a council meeting on Monday, August 31. Reports suggested funds might be diverted to Kottakkal municipality due to project delays. The Mayor confirmed no official communication was received and discussed it with MLA Faisal Babu. Next, the civic body will take actions to address price uniformity in city hotels. 💰

🏏 Zimbabwe nails thriller after Namibia scare

Zimbabwe clinched a thrilling five-run victory after surviving a huge scare from Namibia in Windhoek. The match saw Zimbabwe post 195/6 before Namibia collapsed to 190, despite earlier strong play. The key turning point was a 109-run partnership by Zane Green and Alexander Volschenk. Namibia's chase faltered as they reached 76/6, making the final over intense. Brad Evans held his nerve in the last over to secure the remarkable win for Zimbabwe. 🏏

📈 OpenAI's ad biz hits $1B annualized run rate

OpenAI's advertising business has reached an annualized revenue run rate of $1 billion. This massive growth was reported by Reuters concerning the company's evolving monetization strategy. The figure reflects strong adoption and advertiser interest in their platforms. This milestone indicates a significant shift towards a more diversified revenue stream for the AI giant. Expect further expansion and integration of advertising across OpenAI's services moving forward.

🚨 SIT formed to probe attack on Veena George

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been officially formed to look into the alleged attack on former Health Minister Veena George. This incident occurred at the Kannur Railway Station on February 25, 2026. The attack happened during a black-flag protest organized by Kerala Students Union (KSU) activists. The SIT will be led by U. Preman and assisted by A.P. Asad. The team must submit a fortnightly progress report directly to the Police Headquarters.

📸 New robotic zoom camera raises funds

Former DJI engineers have launched FarseerTech's RocXZoom, the world’s first robotic extreme zoom camera. This device is being developed by the company founded by former DJI imaging engineers in the US. The project successfully raised $247,029 toward its $9,999 goal on Kickstarter as of the announcement date. It is designed to automatically track distant subjects using AI and motorized panning, solving framing issues at long focal lengths. Future milestones include independent footage and real-world testing before mass production.

🌱 Central Railway to use vetiver grass for slopes

Central Railway plans to use vetiver grass plantation to curb soil erosion and landslips during heavy rains. This initiative is targeting vulnerable ghat sections like Bhor Ghat and Thal Ghat. Pilot plantations have already covered areas up to 4,250 square meters across various sections. Vetiver's deep root system can increase soil shear resistance by about 30 to 40%. This nature-based solution aims to ensure safe and punctual train operations during the monsoon season. 🌿