🧑‍🔬 Plastic waste turns into protein cookies

Scientists are transforming plastic waste and agricultural materials into protein-rich snacks using engineered yeast. This groundbreaking research was conducted at Southern Illinois University Carbondale as part of a NASA-led project. The prototype, µBites, was developed using PET plastic and corn stalks, and initial data shows they are safe to eat. The technology aims to solve both food shortages and plastic pollution in resource-limited settings. Researchers hope these cookies could be ready for public consumption within a few years. 🧑‍🔬

🚨 India forces spam reports to telcos, Truecaller objects

India has updated its anti-spam rules, making it mandatory for caller-ID apps to share user spam reports with telecom operators. This change was implemented by TRAI, the telecom regulator, on Friday to expand the pool of data used against spammers. Truecaller called this requirement 'anti-competitive' as it transfers valuable data to telcos. In 2025 alone, Truecaller users reportedly faced around 42 billion spam calls in India. The rules also bring AI-powered automated calls under the A2P framework. 📱

⚖️ SC questions CBI's super-fast bribery probe

The Supreme Court acquitted an RPF official because the CBI couldn't prove the intermediary took the bribe for him. Justices Dipankar Datta and N K Singh made this ruling in a case dating back to 2005. The CBI lodged an FIR on August 4, 2005, and set a trap within hours, catching the intermediary. The court noted this extreme speed raised doubts about verifying the complaint before the trap was set. Criminal liability requires proof the intermediary acted for the accused, not just that money exchanged hands. ⚖️

🏅 Pawan Sehrawat steps up for Asian Games flag duty

Pawan Sehrawat will now replace Tajinderpal Singh Toor as India's flag-bearer at the Asian Games opening ceremony. This change is happening in Nagoya because the shot-putter could not receive his official kit on time. Toor stated his kit would arrive at Nagoya airport only at 3pm, making it too late for the ceremony. The athletics contingent is still waiting for kits, with all equipment remaining in India. Sehrawat will join Manu Bhaker in leading the Indian contingent at the event. 🇮🇳

⚖️ SC questions liquor ban, points out five 'evils'

The Supreme Court questioned the effectiveness of alcohol prohibition, highlighting five associated 'evils' like revenue loss and corruption. Justices J B Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran made these remarks while quashing certain Maharashtra Poisons Rules. Recent tragedies in Bhavnagar (Gujarat) and Sagar (MP) with 13 and 15 deaths served as a reminder to authorities. The court noted that bans often push trade underground, increasing lethal brews across states. Consequently, the SC rejected the Maharashtra government's plea as lacking a rational nexus to prevent hooch tragedies. 🥃

🛡️ MHA says FCRA change is for national security

The Ministry of Home Affairs defended the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, asserting it protects sovereign space from foreign money entry. MHA officials briefed a Parliament joint committee regarding the bill amidst opposition claims it targets minority institutions, especially Christian ones. The bill was introduced during the budget session, facing protests from opposition parties and Christian groups. Data shows foreign contributions increased to Rs 22,974 crore in 2024-25, with Christian groups receiving 73% of funds for religious purposes. The committee chairperson expects to submit its report during the winter session of Parliament. 🧐

👑 Rohit Sharma's loyalty to MI in KKR offer

Rohit Sharma addressed fan chants directed at him during a TV show segment featuring KKR coach Abhishek Nayar. The legendary player, a Mumbai Indians icon, faced teasing hints about joining KKR's purple and gold. When the audience chanted 'Mumbai, Mumbai', Rohit responded with a definitive 'Forever' statement. He has remained with MI since 2011 and captained them in five of their IPL titles. Next, he is set to play for Team India against West Indies starting September 27th.

🗳️ CJP joins Rahul, alleges EC favors BJP

Saurav Das and Rahul Gandhi called for a large-scale political fight to hold the Election Commission responsible. They accused the EC of 'fixing' decisions, specifically mentioning the freezing of the TMC symbol and name. This happened on a Friday, following recent political events in India. Das questioned the 'Envelope' symbol for TMC defectors, criticizing the perceived collusion between BJP and the EC. This escalation raises the possibility of protests similar to Jantar Mantar. 🗳️

🚨 Riyadh gets second danger warning amid threats

Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence issued a second warning on Saturday morning, September 19, for potential danger in Riyadh and Al-Kharj Governorate. The authority urged residents to follow safety instructions and avoid gatherings and filming for their safety. These early alerts usually happen when Saudi areas face potential attacks from the Houthi group in Yemen. Earlier, warnings had also been issued for Jeddah, Taif, and several other Saudi provinces. The danger later subsided in both Riyadh and Al-Kharj Governorate. ⚠️

💰 Jewellers face higher gold hallmarking costs

The Bureau of Indian Standards raised the gold hallmarking fee by 67% to ₹75 per article as festive and wedding demand rises. This hike affects jewellers across India, especially for lightweight jewellery pieces. The fee increased from ₹45 and became effective on September 14th, adding compliance costs for retailers. Industry reps are worried about customer pushback on this added charge, despite its small value compared to the jewellery. Stakeholders are now calling for a review of the fee structure, suggesting lower slabs for smaller items.

🏏 Hetmyer's massive hitting spree in CPL 🏏

Shimron Hetmyer smashed a huge innings in the Caribbean Premier League 2026. He was playing for the Warriors against the opposition at the venue. His score climbed to 98* at 19.5 overs, reaching over 200 for the team. This batting display showed his intent and dominance in the tournament. He continues his aggressive run while facing various bowlers.