📣 Rahul Gandhi backs Kriti Sanon against Ranaut’s critique

Rahul Gandhi defended actor Kriti Sanon after she faced online trolling regarding her outfit in a Raksha Bandhan ad. The controversy involved Sanon wearing an ivory bralette-and-skirt outfit, which was criticized by BJP MP Kangana Ranaut. On Tuesday, Gandhi stated that a woman's choice of clothing and lifestyle should not be policed online. Sanon had previously questioned why cultural values were judged by her clothes, while Ranaut called the look 'intentionally creepy.' Moving forward, the debate centers on women's freedom of choice versus cultural expectations. 👗

🚀 Black missile test highlights stealth tech upgrade

State media revealed a rare 12-second video showing a black-coated PLA shipborne missile test launch. A Chinese expert suggested the coating boosts both radar and visual stealth for better penetration. This footage was isolated from a longer July report, marking its first dedicated release by CCTV. The missile appears to be an improved variant of the YJ-18 anti-ship cruise missile. This test aimed to verify its ability to rapidly turn and skim low over the sea surface. 🚀

🔬 3D-Printed Patch Might Level Up Skin Cancer Treatment

Researchers are exploring how 3D-printed microneedle patches could significantly enhance skin cancer treatment options. This innovative tech is being investigated by medical science experts in various labs. Initial studies have shown promising results on test subjects over the past few months. These patches aim to deliver medication directly and precisely to affected skin cells. Further clinical trials are planned to see if this method can become a standard medical practice. 🔬

🏡 Dates set for Hyderabad's affordable flat lucky draws

The dates for lucky draws for 7,340 affordable Indiramma Houses have been announced by the Telangana Housing and Revenue Minister. These draws will happen across 18 locations in Hyderabad between August 27 and August 30. Out of all applications, 40,900 were found eligible for the selection process. The government is offering a ₹5 lakh subsidy, but beneficiaries must pay ₹6 lakh in installments. Winners will receive their ₹10,000 EMD back immediately after the final list is declared. 🏡

🎣 Trout invasion wrecked NZ's native fish life

Brown trout were introduced to New Zealand in 1867 for sport fishing purposes by British settlers. Over the next five decades, more than 60 million of these trout were released into waterways across the North and South Islands. This invasive species caused severe declines and local extinctions among native fish populations, according to a review in Biological Conservation. The trout also act like biological dams, fragmenting native fish habitats and reducing gene flow. Conservation efforts are ongoing, but complete eradication is proving nearly impossible. 🎣

🏛️ Supreme Court questions fresh polls in Bengal

The Supreme Court was informed about a claim regarding low winning margins in West Bengal assembly constituencies. A Trinamool Congress member argued that in 31 constituencies, the BJP's winning margin was less than the number of deleted voters. CJI Surya Kant questioned whether the court could order fresh elections based on this submission. The bench decided to examine all pending appeals rather than just these 31 specific constituencies. The court noted the need for the ECI to provide details on the disposal of lakhs of pending appeals. 🧐

😥 Pakistan hockey faces crisis after World Cup exit

Pakistan's poor performance at the Hockey World Cup has sparked serious concerns among former players about the sport's decline. The four-time champions were eliminated after another disappointing campaign, finishing ninth and last in the recent Pro League. Former Olympians insist the team's immediate focus must be the Asian Games in Japan next month. They argue that grassroots talent is lacking, partly due to cricket's rising popularity in the country. Success in Asian Games is seen as crucial to restore confidence and attract young players back to hockey. 😥

🌿 Green Wall: Palmyra Groves to Shield Andhra Coast

The Forest Department is launching a major seed collection and plantation drive for the Great Green Wall in Andhra Pradesh. Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan announced plans to establish palmyra groves across 5,499 hectares along the coastline. The initiative targets planting almost 55 lakh palmyra seeds, starting from a collection of 13 lakh seeds. This effort creates a second-tier natural windbreak against cyclones, complementing mangrove forests. Public participation is being sought to support this broader goal of achieving 50 per cent green cover in the State. 🌿

🔭 What's in the Space Between Stars?

Scientists are studying the chemical makeup of the interstellar medium using spectroscopy. This vast region of space is composed of various elements and molecules. Observations made across different wavelengths reveal specific atomic and molecular signatures. These signatures help researchers understand the star formation processes occurring throughout the galaxy. Future studies aim to map the distribution of these chemicals in deep space.

👮 50+ ABVP members detained in Bengaluru protest

Over 40 members of the ABVP were detained by Bengaluru police on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, after protesting outside the KPSC office. The dharna on the busy road disrupted traffic while they raised slogans against the State government. Protesters were taken to the High Grounds police station for allegedly violating High Court orders. Some ABVP members claimed the police used excessive force and injured students during the action. Senior police officials denied the brutality claims, stating protocol was followed. 👮

🔬 Iron waste + magnetized water upgrades concrete performance

Researchers explored using iron processing waste and magnetized water to boost sustainable concrete properties. This study took place in an experimental setting, testing various combinations of these materials. The tests covered six levels of iron waste replacement and multiple magnetization cycles on dates up to 28 days. The findings indicate that moderate iron waste combined with magnetized water significantly improves strength and density. These results suggest a viable path to reduce the industry's reliance on natural river sand. 🏗️