🏛️ President Murmu on major exam reforms

President Droupadi Murmu announced that the government is taking comprehensive steps to reform the examination system. This was stated by the President during her address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day. She emphasized the goal is to curb cheating and ensure exams are transparent and trustworthy for students. Murmu stressed that every citizen plays a vital role in the country's development towards Viksit Bharat by 2047. These reforms aim to make the educational process more secure and reliable for the youth. 📚

🦠 Ebola spreads to 6th province in DRC

An Ebola outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, has expanded into a sixth province in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This spread is occurring in Bas-Uélé province, following travel from the neighboring Haut-Uélé province where Isiro is located. As of August 10, the Congolese government reported 4,449 confirmed cases and 2,061 deaths. Officials warn that without intervention, this outbreak could become the largest in the world, potentially lasting over a year. Containment efforts focus on identifying cases and ensuring safe burials for the affected communities. 😥

💔 TWICE departures loom: more members rumored to leave JYP

Two TWICE members, Jeongyeon and Chaeyoung, have confirmed their exits from JYP Entertainment. Jeongyeon left on August 10 to pursue acting with VARO Entertainment, while Chaeyoung established her solo label, LIL FANTASY. Speculation is high regarding Jihyo and Tzuyu, who were previously rumored to leave, and Dahyun's uncertain future. Analysts point to the contract situation as a risk, causing JYP Entertainment's shares to drop over 8% this week. Fans are awaiting official announcements on the remaining members' plans.

🦠 Gut bacteria might link to psychopathic traits

A new study suggests certain gut and oral bacteria could be associated with psychopathic personality traits. Researchers examined 200 adults in this research, checking their microbes from stool, saliva, and blood. The study identified specific bacteria like Allisonella and Prevotella linked to higher psychopathy scores, observed on a certain date. This preliminary finding explores if biology outside the brain connects to personality traits via the gut-brain axis. However, the researchers stress that these are only associations, not proof of causation. 🧐

🏀 Lakers sold for $12.5B, Dončić's future in doubt

The Los Angeles Lakers were recently sold for a record-breaking $12.5 billion to an ownership group led by Josh Kushner and Bob Iger. Star player Luka Dončić, who has been in Slovenia, was reportedly not consulted regarding this massive sale. He plans a video conference call with Iger and Kushner next week while preparing for a minicamp in Slovenia. This development raises questions about his role as the team's future leader following LeBron James' trade. Dončić later expressed excitement about bringing a championship to LA despite the changes. 🏀

🏏 India names Pratika Rawal for Asia Cup squad

Pratika Rawal has been named as the replacement for Rodrigues in the Women's Asia Cup squad. She returns to the India setup after a strong performance with the India A team recently. The updated squad features Harmanpreet Kaur (c) and Smriti Mandhana (vc) among the players. The Women's Asia Cup kicks off on August 28th, with India starting against Thailand on August 30th. This addition strengthens the lineup for the upcoming tournament. 🏏

😔 Teen dies in Kochi after alleged phone scolding

A 13-year-old girl was found dead at her home in Chalakka, near Nedumbassery, in a suspected suicide case. The student from a private school in Kunnukara passed away on Thursday evening, August 13th. Police registered an unnatural death case on Friday, August 14th. The incident reportedly followed parents scolding her over mobile phone usage. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

🎬 Fardeen Khan and Mahesh Manjrekar join Malamaal Weekly 2

Fardeen Khan and Mahesh Manjrekar have officially joined the cast of Malamaal Weekly 2. The actors are slated to feature in this upcoming comic caper, which is being directed by Amit Joshi in April 2026. The project is set to begin shooting in November 2026 and will have a new storyline. Raveena Tandon, Parineeti Chopra, and Shilpa Shirodkar are already part of the lineup. The film will keep the original's theme of ordinary people facing chaos due to greed.

🔥 Two Nagas killed in militant firing in Manipur

Two Naga individuals were killed in an attack by suspected militants in Kangpokpi district, Manipur on Friday. The incident occurred in Langka Naga village, where armed men opened fire around 8 am. W Chawang died at the scene, and Kawidinang Abonmai was the second person to pass away. The Liangmai Naga Council-Manipur condemned the attack, alleging Kuki National Front (P) militants were involved. Consequently, the council announced a total shutdown of Liangmai Naga-inhabited areas until further notice. 🚨

📈 Texas H-1B filings surge despite anti-visa stance

H-1B related filings are sharply increasing across several Republican districts in Texas. This trend is happening even though Texas officials are pushing to restrict the work visa program. Between FY2019 and FY2025, filings in Texas' 3rd District jumped 242%, rising from 1,388 to 4,748. This growth contrasts with national trends, where most districts saw declines in filings. The state's contradiction is highlighted by Republicans supporting limits while local demand rises. 🧐

🚆 Mumbai locals getting bigger trains starting August 15

Central Railway is upgrading its local train services across the Main Line starting August 15, 2026. They will be converting 22 suburban train services from 12-car to 15-car rakes. This major change means 54 15-car Mumbai local trains will be operational from that date. Adding three coaches to each train will boost passenger capacity by 25 percent across key routes. This move is aimed at handling increased passenger load on the network.