🏛️ Murmu pushes for secure exams, boosts youth focus

President Murmu announced comprehensive reforms to public exams to stop paper leaks and unfair means. This address was given by her on the eve of India's 80th Independence Day. Reforms aim to make the system more transparent, secure, and trustworthy for students. She also stressed the role of young Indians in job creation and the startup ecosystem. Moving forward, the government is focused on these systemic improvements alongside national development.

🏏 Gill denies comms gap with BCCI CoE over injuries

Shubman Gill refuted reports of a communication gap between team management and the BCCI Centre of Excellence. This came after three initial squad members were dropped before the two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Gill stated there is constant communication regarding player fitness at the CoE. He explained that Test cricket's five-day format necessitates not taking risks on unfit players. India will start the series with Ravindra Jadeja as their sole all-rounder.

💊 Illegal Abortion Kit Racket Busted in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra FDA busted a racket dealing in illegal medical abortion kits across Nagpur and Solapur districts. The operation targeted individuals, including executives from the online portal IndiaMART, who were involved in the illicit trade. On August 12, the FDA acted on tips regarding the unauthorized storage and sale of medicines like Clear Kit and Prega End. In Nagpur, police arrested two individuals carrying 50 MTP kits during a clinic raid. Further investigations are ongoing, and the FDA warned against using these kits without a doctor's prescription. 💊

📱 POCO F9 Pro/Ultra leaks: massive battery and 200MP cam

Leaked specs reveal the upcoming POCO F9 Pro and F9 Ultra flagships are arriving soon. These devices are expected to be EU versions of the Redmi K100 series, featuring large batteries and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chips. The F9 Ultra boasts an 8,050mAh battery and a 6.85-inch 185Hz OLED screen, while the F9 Pro has a 6,330mAh battery. Both models feature a 200MP main camera and Bose speakers, with the Ultra having an LED notification ring. Pricing is set high, with the F9 Ultra potentially costing €999 in Germany. 🔋

🎬 Sreeleela resumes shooting for Kartik Aaryan musical

Sreeleela has resumed shooting for the large-scale romantic musical film directed by Anurag Basu. This production is starring Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela, with filming currently taking place in Mumbai. The movie, reportedly titled Tu Meri Zindagi Hai, is set to be one of the major upcoming releases, following earlier delays. The film is an original love story, and Pritam will be composing the music for the project. It is expected that this romantic musical will be a significant release in the near future.

☀️ UAE hits 50.4°C heatwave before Suhail star rise 🥵

The UAE recorded a high of 50.4°C on August 14 in Bada Dafas, Al Dhafra region, nearing this year's peak temperature. Less than ten days remain until the Suhail star is expected to rise on August 24. Experts caution that cooler weather will be gradual, and humidity might still cause discomfort. Safety tips include regular water intake and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. Meanwhile, initiatives like a mid-day work ban and health screenings are ongoing for workers.

😠 DSS slams 'purification' ritual in Haldwani

Dalit Sangharsha Samithi (DSS) State convener D.G. Sagar condemned a purification ritual at Haldwani’s Ramlila ground. This incident occurred on August 10, two days after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge held a rally there. Sagar noted that such practices mirror historical caste discrimination, like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Mahad Satyagraha in 1927. He called on Uttarakhand authorities to register cases under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The DSS threatened to escalate agitation if appropriate action is not taken.

🪙 Mysuru expo traces India's currency evolution

A rare coins and currency notes exhibition is currently on display at SBRR Mahajana First Grade College in Mysuru. This 180th exhibition showcases the evolution of Indian currency for visitors. The collection features ancient coins dating back to the 5th century BC, covering periods from the Kushanas to the Mughal era. Highlights include coins from the Vijayanagara Empire and various independent Indian currency notes. The event is part of the 80th Independence Day celebrations organized by P.K. Keshavamurthy. 🪙

🗳️ Saleem Ahmed elected new Karnataka Legislative Council Chairman

Saleem Ahmed was elected as the new Chairman of the Karnataka Legislative Council on Friday after defeating the BJP nominee, P.H. Pujar. This election took place in the Karnataka Legislative Council amidst concerns about the exit of former Chairman Basavaraj Horatti. Ahmed secured 38 votes, while Pujar garnered 30 votes, which included six from the NDA ally Janata Dal (Secular). The BJP raised objections regarding the manner in which the senior-most member, Mr. Horatti, was asked to step down. Ahmed stated that the post belongs to the House and not to any political party. 🗳️

🚚 Mahindra Scorpio N Pick Up Drops with New Updates

Mahindra has officially launched the Scorpio N Pick Up variant, making it available for the market. This new model was unveiled at a recent auto event in India. Key details include multiple variants and various color options, with pricing yet to be fully detailed. The Scorpio N is positioned to compete strongly in the rugged utility vehicle segment. Further details regarding booking and delivery timelines are expected soon.

🚨 Arab Tourist Found Dead in Kozhikode Hotel

An Arab woman tourist was found deceased in a hotel room in Kozhikode on Friday, August 14. The victim has been identified as Zainab Ali Juma Mohammad Al Marzooqi, aged 41, from Ras Al Khaimah. She had arrived in the city last week as part of an international trip with her family. Police suspect the cause of death might be cardiac arrest, as she reportedly had various ailments. Her parents reported the incident to the Nadakkavu police, and the body was moved for a post-mortem.