✈️ Oman drops zero-cost 14-day tourist visa

Oman has launched a new tourist visa category allowing eligible visitors a 14-day stay with no fee. This visa was announced in Oman's Official Gazette on August 2, 2026, and became effective the next day. The visa is restricted to citizens of countries selected by Oman's authority, though no list has been released yet. This move aims to boost international tourism to the country. Visitors might be able to extend their stay by converting the visa, provided they meet the necessary conditions.

💸 When to expect your income tax refund?

The Income Tax Department starts processing refunds only after taxpayers complete e-verification of their returns. For Assessment Year AY 2026-27, the deadline for ITR Forms 1 and 2 was July 31, 2026, with over 5.9 crore returns filed before the due date. Generally, error-free refunds take 4-5 weeks to credit to the account after verification. A CA suggests refunds from late July filers could arrive between mid-August and mid-September. Taxpayers should check their e-filing status if the refund doesn't arrive in the expected timeframe. 💰

🗳️ Prashant Kishor wins Bankipur bypoll, focuses on Bihar's growth

Prashant Kishor declared that Bankipur would no longer be embarrassed after winning the bypoll against the BJP. He, who heads the Jan Suraaj Party (JSP), became the new MLA from Bankipur in Bihar. The win, which occurred on a date not specified, saw Kishor defeat his BJP rival by over 19,000 votes. Kishor promised visible improvements, including ending local corruption, within the next three months. He stressed that his primary agenda is Bihar's progress, not opposition unity. 🗳️

💻 IIT Madras mandates DigiLocker for GATE 2027

IIT Madras has made the use of DigiLocker mandatory for all GATE 2027 registrations. This requirement applies to all candidates applying through the institute's portal. The deadline for registration is set for September 30, 2026. This move aims to streamline the document verification process across the board. Candidates are advised to ensure their DigiLocker accounts are ready before the specified date.

🏎️ Lamborghini drops rare Miura homage supercar

Lamborghini has unveiled the Revuelto Miura 60° Homage, an exclusive anniversary model honoring the 1966 Miura. This special edition is being developed through the Ad Personam program and will debut at Lamborghini Lounge Monterey. Only 99 examples will be produced, celebrating 60 years since the Miura established the mid-engine supercar formula. The car retains the 1,015 CV hybrid V12 performance but features Miura-inspired colors and interiors. Buyers can choose from nine heritage shades, with the model set to showcase design tributes. 🏎️

💧 Europe's big rivers are drying up fast

Major European rivers like the Danube, Rhine, and Loire are shrinking due to intense heat and drought conditions. This is impacting critical sectors across countries from western to eastern Europe. Specific impacts include Hungary's Paks nuclear plant reducing output and Serbia's hydropower plant operating at only 20% capacity as of now. Businesses are reporting lower earnings, and transport is being disrupted as cargo vessels face shallower waters. Governments are dealing with power shortages and have to plan for costly electricity imports going forward. 😟

⌚ Motorola patents unfolding smartwatch-to-smartphone

Motorola has secured a patent for a unique smartwatch design that can unfold. This device, developed by Motorola, is intended to transform into a fully functional smartphone screen. The patent filing details specifications for the hinge mechanism and display technology. This innovation aims to merge the convenience of a watch with the functionality of a mobile phone. Motorola plans to explore various ways to integrate this foldable concept into future wearables. ⌚

🎤 HYBE India plans for local talent & BTS vibes

HYBE India CEO Damien Woochang Lee announced plans to nurture local talent and bring K-pop artists to India. This is happening through HYBE India, establishing its presence in the market. The company is focused on creating artists with 'superstar potential' through a culturally rooted methodology. Lee emphasized building something uniquely Indian while achieving global resonance, not just replicating formulas. Future plans involve bridging India and Korea with meaningful collaborations to meet fan expectations. 🎶

🏛️ Punjab Congress Chief Refuses to Step Down Amid Drama

Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring declared on Monday that he will not resign from his current position. This statement was made after supporters of former CM Charanjit Singh Channi protested against Warring at recent party gatherings. Warring, who has held the post since April 2022, cited the party's 2024 Lok Sabha win as proof of his efforts. Party leader Bhupesh Baghel asserted that the Congress leadership remains united despite the internal friction. The party is gearing up for the Assembly elections anticipated in early 2027. 🗳️

✨ Aishwarya Rai's massive pearl look at Cannes 💎

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wore a stunning, pearl-embroidered white gown by Tony Ward Couture at Cannes in 2026. The look featured 7,000 pearls, almost 40 metres of silk taffeta, and over 600 hours of craftsmanship. The dramatic outfit included a corseted silhouette and a huge, sculpted taffeta cape. This piece adds another grand chapter to her varied Cannes wardrobe that year. The reveal of this elaborate design offers a look at maximalist glamour.

⚖️ Stalin's Aide Arrested Over Trisha Comments

Udhayanidhi Stalin has been arrested following controversial remarks made about actor Trisha. He was taken into custody in Tamil Nadu due to the nature of his statements. The arrest occurred recently, although specific dates were not provided in the report. The DMK party is now accusing political rivals of a vendetta against him. The situation is expected to develop further as legal proceedings continue. ⚖️