🌧️ NDMC apologizes for heavy rain waterlogging in Delhi

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) issued an apology to residents for the waterlogging experienced across its areas. NDMC Chairperson Manoj Kumar Dwivedi stated that while usual clearing takes 15-20 minutes, it took over an hour in 3-4 locations on Tuesday. The capital received over 72 mm of unexpected rainfall in under two hours on August 25, 2026. Dwivedi clarified that this intense spell is not an excuse for the public inconvenience faced by citizens. The civic body plans to implement short- and long-term measures to make the NDMC area fully waterlogging free. 💧

🚨 Two POCSO accused caught after jailbreak in Srinagar

Two individuals accused in separate POCSO cases were arrested by police after escaping from Srinagar's Central Jail. The accused, Mukhtar Ahmad Gujjar and Farman Khan, escaped from the jail on August 23. Mukhtar is linked to FIR No. 20/2026 at Police Station Soura, while Farman Khan is sought in FIR No. 19/2026 at Police Station Lar. Authorities are currently investigating the details surrounding how this escape occurred. Further investigation into the circumstances of their escape is ongoing.

🚀 SoftwareOne leadership shakes up post-merger

SoftwareOne announced a regional leadership restructure to help the company 'shift gears' following strong first-half results. Three regional leaders, Rico Andreoli, Regina Manfredi, and Varun Paliwal, were promoted to the board for Americas, EMEA, and APAC. Revenue powered up 68.2% to CHF 818.3m, with like-for-like growth hitting 11.6% at constant currency. This move comes as CEO Raphael Erb stated the new structure strengthens accountability for faster execution. The company plans to raise its EBITDA margin to 28% by 2030. 📈

🤢 Posh Delhi hotels fail food safety check before BRICS Summit 🤢

Food safety issues were flagged at two Delhi hotels booked for the BRICS Summit. FSSAI inspections targeted Andaz Delhi and JW Marriott in Aerocity. The checks revealed expired food, pests, and 59 deficiencies at JW Marriott, while 87 kg of expired sweets were found at Andaz Delhi. These lapses occurred as India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13. The hotels have been instructed by FSSAI to immediately implement corrective actions.

🕯️ Film Industry Bids Farewell to Kukku Kohli

Veteran filmmaker Kukku Kohli passed away yesterday, August 25, after suffering a cardiac arrest. The tribute took place in Mumbai, where several Bollywood figures attended the cremation today, August 26. Kohli was 77 years old and was known for launching Ajay Devgn with Phool Aur Kaante in 1991. Rohit Shetty was among those present, visibly emotional, as many industry friends paid their last respects. His career spanned over three decades, directing films like Kohraam and Zulmi. 😥

📈 Bikaji Foods sells 30% stake in baked subsidiary to Bakemart founder

Bikaji Foods International Ltd. announced the sale of a 30% stake in its subsidiary, Bikaji Bakes Private Limited, to Thayekunni Khaleel. This transaction involved Khaleel, the founder of the Bakemart bakery brand. The sale was executed in tranches, changing BBPL from a wholly owned subsidiary. Bikaji Foods retains the remaining 70% stake in the company. Following this news, Bikaji Foods International Ltd. shares rose by 2.75% to Rs 616.30 on Wednesday.

🔥 US shifts Iran strategy from strikes to sanctions

Iran has reportedly shifted its military doctrine from defensive to offensive operations ahead of potential future conflicts. This comes as the US is reportedly shifting its approach from strikes to sanctions against Iran. Iran has restarted talks with Oman to manage the Strait of Hormuz amid economic pressure from US President Donald Trump. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has declared an economic onslaught on Iran’s global financial connections. China remains a major factor, being Iran's biggest trading partner and leading oil buyer. ⛽

🏥 UP private workers get major workplace upgrades

New rules were approved by the Yogi Adityanath-led state cabinet for private-sector workers across Uttar Pradesh. These provisions mandate things like appointment letters, annual health check-ups, and better safety standards in the state. The rules stipulate that employers with 10 or more workers must issue formal appointment letters to their staff. Furthermore, employers must arrange free annual health check-ups and provide essential amenities like clean water and restrooms. These changes aim to increase accountability for all workers, including contract and night-shift women, starting from August 26, 2026. 👍

📄 New rules for UP workers' appointments and health checks

New guidelines have been introduced to benefit workers in Uttar Pradesh. These updates specifically target laborers across the state of UP. The changes mandate the issuance of appointment letters and annual health checkups for all concerned. This aims to formalize employment and ensure the well-being of the workforce. Authorities will now enforce these new protocols starting soon.

🚩 India's Political Trajectory: Assumed to Fascist

India is currently navigating the 'Assumed Authoritarian' phase of its political journey. This trend has been observed across various segments of the nation's governance structure. Data points indicate a significant shift occurring around early 2024. This progression suggests a deepening centralization of power and reduced democratic space. Further monitoring is required to determine if the shift moves towards an 'Actively Fascist' model.

✈️ Dubai airport traffic dips amid US-Iran tensions ✈️

Dubai International Airport saw a 31.3% drop in passenger traffic during the first half of the year due to disruptions from the US-Iran war. This major international hub, located in Dubai, experienced these declines between January and June. Aircraft movements fell by 32.1% in H1, while guest volumes rose steadily in Q2 to 5 million in June. DXB anticipates a stronger second half as airline capacity and connectivity start to recover globally. This resilience shows demand is responding immediately as routes are restored.