📱 Samsung set to overtake Apple in smartphone sales

Counterpoint Research predicts that Samsung Electronics will surpass Apple in global smartphone shipments by 2026. This shift is projected because Samsung's shipments are expected to rise 0.8 percent while Apple's are set to decline 2.1 percent this year. Samsung's strong performance is credited to its diverse product line and robust distribution networks. Meanwhile, Apple faces potential price increases for the iPhone 18 series and a late foldable launch. These factors suggest Samsung will regain its top market position. 📱

🤖 Alibaba drops new AI video model, Wan3.0

Alibaba has officially launched its new AI video model, named Wan3.0. This major release comes from the tech giant in Hangzhou, China. The launch follows a significant $10 billion share sale by the company. Wan3.0 aims to push boundaries in generative AI capabilities for various applications. The company plans to integrate this new model across its existing platforms moving forward. 🤖

🛑 Mumbai auto drivers strike over Marathi rule

Mumbai autorickshaw drivers started a three-day strike on Monday against the mandatory Marathi language requirement for cab drivers. Protesters gathered on Kandivli Link Road, voicing concerns about the financial burden on non-Marathi speakers. The strike began on Monday, with drivers demanding a reconsideration of the rules and associated penalties. Many older drivers stated that lack of formal education makes meeting the language standard difficult. Drivers are striking until the authorities address their grievances regarding the policy.

🧐 Study finds Saudi returnees more conservative in Kerala

A World Bank study revealed that migrants returning from Saudi Arabia exhibit more conservative attitudes upon coming back to Kerala. The research, published in March 2022, found Saudi returnees were significantly more conservative regarding gender attitudes than non-migrants. Shashi Tharoor called these reports disturbing, urging introspection within the Muslim community. This contrasts with Kerala's long history of liberal and progressive religious practices. The study used the Kerala Migration Survey 2013 data to examine these social norm transfers. 🧐

🌍 Gulf migration brings conservative shifts to Kerala

A World Bank study revealed that Keralam Muslims returning from Saudi Arabia adopted more conservative attitudes upon their return. The research, published in March 2022, found these returnees exhibited more extreme views on physical violence against women and gender norms. Specifically, Saudi returnees were 3.0 SD more conservative on gender-based violence compared to non-migrants. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor called these "disturbing reports" and urged internal community introspection. This highlights a potential transfer of social norms from Gulf countries to Kerala's progressive society. 😥

🚕 Marathi language test for Maharashtra drivers

The Maharashtra Transport Department started an enforcement drive on August 20, 2026, issuing notices to drivers lacking Marathi language skills. This drive targets auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers across Maharashtra who failed the functional knowledge assessment. As of now, approximately 2,500 such notices have been issued to the drivers. The mandate requires drivers to communicate in Marathi while operating passenger vehicles in the state. Drivers failing the one-month notice period face a three-month license suspension, according to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. 🚕

🗣️ Maharashtra drivers face Marathi language test

Maharashtra Transport Department started an enforcement drive on August 20, 2026, issuing notices to auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers lacking Marathi skills. This drive is targeting drivers in Mumbai and across the state, with around 2,500 notices issued so far. Since August 20, about 13,000 drivers have been tested as part of this mandatory requirement. Drivers failing the assessment get a one-month notice, or their license faces a three-month suspension per Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. Many drivers are protesting, citing insufficient training and questioning the standard for 'working knowledge of Marathi.'

🦠 ICMR confirms no new H1N1 strain detected in India

The ICMR stated that no new H1N1 strain has been identified, so there is no need for panic despite increased swine flu cases. The viruses circulating belong to the A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1) pdm09-like strain, which has been present since 2025. Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda reviewed the situation and emphasized strengthening early detection and testing protocols. Influenza A and B viruses are the types that circulate and cause seasonal epidemics. Annual vaccination is recommended as the best way to prevent the illness. 🦠

🔫 Indigenous 'Shair' Rifle Test-Fired in Amethi

India successfully test-fired its first fully indigenous AK-203 assault rifle, named 'Shair', at the facility in Korwa, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. This rifle features 100% locally developed and manufactured parts under the Make in India initiative. Armed forces trials are set to start in September, with a target of delivering six lakh rifles by December 2030. The facility aims to produce one rifle every 100 seconds to meet this massive requirement. This development boosts India's defense manufacturing capabilities significantly. 🇮🇳

🐟 Yogi slams Congress over alleged Ayodhya fish feast

A political spat ignited over a purported fish feast during a welcome event for UP Congress chief Ajay Rai in Ayodhya. Yogi Adityanath accused Rai of duplicity, stating that even a chameleon would be shamed by their actions. The incident occurred while local religious figures objected due to the holy month of Sawan. Congress MP Pawan Khera countered, claiming the issue was a distraction from paper leaks and donation thefts. Ajay Rai denied involvement, challenging the CM to provide evidence of any wrongdoing.

⚖️ Syrian 'Barrel Bomb Mufti' gets life sentence

Ahmad Badreddin Hassoun received a life sentence in a Damascus court for his role in the civil war. The ruling was delivered by the Fourth Criminal Court on Monday against the former grand mufti in Syria. Hassoun, who was arrested in March 2025, faced charges including inciting violence and justifying killings during the nearly 14-year conflict. The judge stated his teachings provided religious cover for military operations and barrel bomb usage. He is barred from amnesty, and his assets will be confiscated by the state.