🧠 New gene might explain why human brains are so smart

Scientists discovered a human-only gene called SRGAP2 that significantly affects brain cell development. This research, conducted at Columbia's Zuckerman Institute, focused on microglia, the brain's immune cells. Human-specific SRGAP2 copies are nearly 10 times more abundant in microglia than in neurons. These genes dramatically slow microglia maturation to four to eight years, unlike mice which take about three weeks. This finding suggests SRGAP2 coordinates the slow developmental pace linked to human cognitive abilities.

📢 DUAF asks DUTA to push campus safety reforms

The Delhi University Academic Forum (DUAF) has written to the Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) demanding urgent institutional changes. Signed by DUAF chairperson Dr Surendra Kumar and vice-chairperson Dr Lata, the collective wants DUTA to address pressing matters in its General Body meeting. Key demands include better campus safety, rolling back privatization, and reforming faculty recruitment rules. DUAF emphasizes that recent incidents of violence have severely compromised the campus environment for all members. The forum urges DUTA to prepare white papers and push for better infrastructure and appointment structures moving forward.

📈 Modi slams 'lies' amid 7.8% GDP growth

PM Narendra Modi addressed the nation from Kyrgyzstan while attending the SCO Summit following strong economic data. He highlighted India's robust 7.8 per cent GDP growth for the April-June quarter, despite global crises. Modi used the term 'jhooth ki goonj' to criticize what he called false narratives spreading inside India. This remark referenced criticism of Rahul Gandhi’s campaign by political satire groups. He urged citizens to maintain this pace and embrace an Atmanirbhar Bharat for a developed India. 🇮🇳

🗣️ Sam Pitroda on Gen Z frustration vs PM Modi's critics

Sam Pitroda defended young protesters for their intense language used against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a recent protest in Delhi. He argued that the harsh words stem not from fashion but from deep-seated frustration among the youth. Pitroda stated that even if young people 'throw some mud,' the nation must listen to them because their future is at stake. Furthermore, he rejected PM Modi's 'dimagi naxal' label, asserting that supporting the disadvantaged does not equate to being a Naxalite. He also claimed Indian democracy is under attack due to excessive centralization of power in the PM's Office. 😔

🚨 Nurse Murdered in Hyderabad; Mechanic Arrested

A 21-year-old nurse was allegedly murdered and sexually assaulted at a private hospital's quarters in Thukkuguda, Hyderabad. The Pahadishareef Police arrested 34-year-old MD Sanaullah, a bike mechanic from Bihar, on August 30th. The victim, from Khammam district, was found dead on August 29th after her friend noticed her unresponsive. Police allege the accused observed her, entered her room through a window, and subsequently assaulted her. Investigation is ongoing as police gather more evidence regarding the case. 😥

🧠 Aerobic exercise boosts brain power in post-menopausal women

Regular aerobic exercise can enhance executive functions, showing strong benefits for women after menopause. Rutgers researchers studied 93 healthy women aged 20 to 67, with 43% being post-menopausal. Participants in the aerobic group showed greater executive function improvements over six months compared to the stretching group. These gains were measurable starting at three months and continued throughout the trial period. Experts now recommend three to four one-hour sessions weekly for cognitive support.

🏸 China Masters: Champs are back for another run

The 19th China Masters, the season’s third Super 750 event, is underway with many past winners returning to defend their titles. Top seeds include An Se Young and Kim Won Ho/Seo Seung Jae, who have previously secured China Masters glory. Hosts China have swept the event six times, most recently in 2015, and are the only nation to produce winners at every edition. Thailand's victory last year was a historic first for the country in mixed doubles. India's Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty are strong contenders, aiming to make history. 🏆

🤕 Hardik Pandya's return faces another hurdle 🤕

Hardik Pandya's international comeback plans have hit a new snag due to a late leg niggle while at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. The all-rounder was training well in Bengaluru but has been advised to pause bowling due to discomfort in his leg. The selectors are meeting this week to select the squad for the T20Is kicking off September 13 in New Delhi. This recent issue further delays his return, as the Afghanistan series is too soon for him to reach required fitness levels. He last played a competitive fixture on May 24 in the IPL for Mumbai Indians.

🏔️ Glacier collapse turns into a deadly mudslide in Nepal

A collapsing glacier in Tibet triggered a massive wall of water and debris roaring through a valley in Nepal. This devastating event affected the region, leaving hundreds dead and many hundreds still missing. The catastrophic cascade began as a rock-ice avalanche around 4,800 metres, generating a long-runout debris flow. Climate change and unstable slopes are increasing the risk of such natural disasters in the Himalayas. Future efforts must focus on improving early warnings and public evacuation advice for these complex hazards. 🏔️

💧 Bihar and Jharkhand settle 25-year river water fight

Bihar and Jharkhand signed an MoU in New Delhi to share 7.75 million acre-feet of Sone river water. This agreement officially ends a nearly 25-year dispute between the two states. The pact, signed on Monday, is expected to help lakhs of farmers with irrigation and drinking water. Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted that this shows issues can be solved through dialogue. The resolution covers areas in Bihar including Patna and regions in Jharkhand like Palamu. 💧

🚀 Modi celebrates 7.8% GDP growth, slams critics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India's strong economic performance following the recording of 7.8% GDP growth in the April-June quarter. This success was attributed to the resolve and hard work of Indians across the nation. The figures for Q1 FY27 showed real GDP at constant prices rose to Rs 81.36 lakh crore. Modi criticized pessimists who were spreading falsehoods amidst global crises and supply chain issues. The government aims to maintain this momentum by promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat moving forward. 📈