🔬 SIAM denies pressure over E20 fuel concerns

SIAM is launching a scientific study to look into concerns surrounding E20 fuel in petrol vehicles. This comes after a Reuters report suggested SIAM retracted a caution letter despite internal automaker worries. The withdrawal was noted on August 13, 2026, following the investigative media report. SIAM clarified the initial communication only had preliminary data and was for internal discussion among members. The association stated it will use validated evidence for all future submissions. ⛽

📋 Kerala Minister inspects certificate delays

Kerala Minister N. Samsudheen visited Pareeksha Bhavan on Thursday, August 13, 2026, following complaints about slow certificate issuance. He heard grievances regarding two to three month delays in SSLC certificate corrections and duplicate issuance. The Minister directed officials to implement speedy methods to resolve these bottlenecks immediately. To fix this, 60 laptops were provided, and certificates must now be issued within 15 days of application receipt. He also ordered better staffing and mobile phones at the reception for faster service.

🛶 Safety first for boats at Berm Park

The APTDC Chairman, N. Balaji, inspected the boating unit at Berm Park in Vijayawada on Thursday. He directed officials to enforce regular checks on boats to ensure they meet all safety standards before tourist operations. This visit also covered the newly built washrooms and boating unit, ensuring construction quality. Balaji stressed that tourist safety must be the top priority for all staff. He called for continuous monitoring and immediate emergency response capabilities. 🛶

🛡️ Sikh Protest Turns Violent Against Police

Clashes erupted between Sikh protesters and police forces, resulting in injuries to both sides. The confrontation took place involving police personnel, including the DSP and ASIs. Reports indicate that several individuals sustained injuries during the ongoing protest action. The demonstration was sparked over specific political and religious grievances in the region. Authorities are currently managing the situation and monitoring the next steps of the protest. 🛡️

🏛️ Siddaramaiah misses first day of Karnataka session

Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah skipped the first day of the Karnataka legislature's Monsoon Session on Thursday. He and other members, like H.C. Mahadevappa and K. Venkatesh, were absent from the Assembly. Siddaramaiah was reportedly upset because the Congress leadership didn't induct Byadagi MLA Basavaraj Shivannanavar into the Cabinet. Meanwhile, former Minister Vinay Kulkarni attended after his membership was restored by the Assembly Secretariat. This restoration followed the High Court staying an April 15 judgment from a special court.

🚨 UP teen fakes kidnapping after massive online game loss

A class 11 student from Gorakhpur allegedly staged his own kidnapping after losing nearly Rs 3 lakh in online games. The teenager, aided by his Delhi-based girlfriend, used AI to create a fake injured image to demand ransom from his father. The initial demand was Rs 1 lakh, which later escalated to Rs 2 lakh in cash. The police traced the student to Sikriganj after he switched his phone to flight mode on Tuesday evening. The student confessed to the police that the whole kidnapping story was fabricated to clear his gaming debts. 💸

⚖️ BCI halts enrolment for NALSAR 2026 grads

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has directed all State Bar Councils not to enroll NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad graduates from 2026 as advocates. This action follows a student campaign opposing Chief Justice of India Surya Kant's convocation participation. The BCI Chairman, Manan Kumar Mishra, requested a factual report from the university within three days regarding the organizers. This move stems from last week's reports of students protesting the CJI's presence due to his comments on Delhi protests. The final decision on this matter is scheduled for August 19, 2026, pending the VC's report. ⚖️

🏍️ Thief chills, dances, steals bike in Varanasi showroom

A bizarre incident unfolded in Varanasi where a man spent over four hours inside an automobile showroom. He was spotted inside the bike agency near Manduadih police station. During his stay, the thief made coffee, took a bath, danced to 'Lungi Dance', and dried his clothes. He then absconded with a manager's KTM bike valued at Rs 4.71 lakh. The Varanasi Police have launched an investigation and registered an FIR regarding this case. 🏍️

🤔 Rahul Gandhi on PM Modi's sleepless nights

Rahul Gandhi commented on Prime Minister Modi, suggesting that Modi stays awake for several significant reasons. This statement was made by Rahul Gandhi in a recent public address. The remarks were made during an event that took place recently. Gandhi implied that these sleepless nights are due to political pressure or constant campaigning. He suggested these efforts are aimed at influencing the political landscape.

💖 Coimbatore company shows major support after employee's loss

A Bengaluru entrepreneur praised a Coimbatore-based company for its compassionate support during a family tragedy. This established company provided over four weeks of leave and covered 20% of the father's medical bills. The organization has been operating for over five decades and employs more than 4,000 people. The chairman also personally reached out to check on the employee following the bereavement. This incident sparked praise across social media regarding employee care in the workplace.

📉 Gold and silver dip amid PPI news

Spot gold and silver prices are trending lower in early U.S. trading this Thursday. This movement occurred as a flat headline PPI was contrasted by stronger core producer-price pressure. The report showed final-demand prices were unchanged in July but rose 4.7% year-over-year. This mixed signal keeps the Fed's stance uncertain ahead of Friday's retail sales data. Investors are watching geopolitical risks in the Strait of Hormuz for further direction.