🔭 Small neighbor might be slowing down Andromeda's star birth

Astronomers observed that the Andromeda galaxy's rate of making new stars has dramatically slowed over the past 40 million years. This research was conducted using observations from the Hubble Space Telescope, focusing on Andromeda, which is located 2.5 million light-years away. The star formation rate dropped from the equivalent of the sun's mass around 500 million years ago to just one-fifth today. One smaller neighboring galaxy, M32, is considered the most likely suspect for this deceleration. Future data from the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will provide more insights into this galactic history. 🔭

⚽ Cucurella on Real Madrid move: 'No doubts'

Marc Cucurella stated that his decision to join Real Madrid was an easy one because of the incredible opportunity. He confirmed that he is joining the club in Madrid, where he has admired the Bernabéu from the outside for years. Cucurella noted that he has seen the magic nights as a spectator, including a match against Brazil in March 2024. Being a home player now feels like a huge responsibility and a wonderful challenge for him. He is eager to win this season while fully enjoying the experience at the Bernabéu. 🤩

💊 Deworming drive kicks off in Cuddalore

The National Deworming Day campaign was launched on Monday by Collector Sibi Adhithya Senthil Kumar. This initiative is taking place in the Cuddalore district. The campaign targets 9.21 lakh children and women, specifically 6,97,458 children and 2,23,660 women. The tablets are being distributed via schools, colleges, anganwadi centres, and health centres. This effort aims to provide deworming medicine to the specified population.

🚜 Sugar crushing starts in Kallakurichi mill

Cane crushing operations have officially commenced at the co-operative sugar mill. This activity is taking place in Kallakurichi. The start marks the beginning of the crushing season for the region. This process is crucial for the production of sugarcane juice and sugar. The mill will continue its operations as per the agricultural schedule. 🚜

📱 S26 One UI 9 Beta Users Skip Google Play Updates

Beta testers for the Galaxy S26 running One UI 9 will temporarily miss out on Google Play System Updates. This situation is currently affecting users in specific regions where the beta program is rolling out. The updates, which are scheduled for a broader release, are being held back for stability testing purposes. Samsung is implementing this phased approach to ensure a smooth transition for the new software version. Users should expect further information regarding the rollout timeline soon.

🇮🇳 Amnesty report questions India-Israel arms deal

Amnesty International released a 42-page investigation arguing that Indian arms exports to Israel could link New Delhi to alleged international law violations in Gaza. The report detailed 2,596 shipments from India to Israel between October 7, 2023, and November 30, 2025. These shipments included over 390,000 small arms parts and 564,000 explosive ordnance components. Conversely, security experts argue the partnership is a legitimate defense and commercial shift driven by India's 'Make in India' policy. The relationship is evolving as Israel now sees India as an essential security pillar for long-term needs. 🤝

😠 Trump rejects Iran's claim, demands counter-payment

Donald Trump has rejected Iran's request for compensation over damage from the recent five-month military conflict. He stated that Iran should instead pay for deaths and injuries resulting from Tehran's regional activities. Trump claims 52,000 people were killed during the last five months, and he also demands payment for protesters killed over 50 years. He insists American negotiators include these demands in future diplomatic talks with Tehran. Furthermore, he holds Iran responsible for damage in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza. 😠

🌱 Kerala amps up organic farming push

Kerala is aggressively promoting organic farming after excessive pesticide residues were found in 58 out of 1,262 tested food items. Agriculture Minister T. Siddique announced this strong resolve on Monday, stressing the need for every homestead to become a small farm unit. The government is launching the 'Kathir' initiative in 500 schools this year, with each school receiving ₹10,000. Next year, all government schools will feature Kathir clubs, and the government is considering academic weightage for participation. Furthermore, ₹10.5 crore is set aside to open 2,000 vegetable markets through VFPCK and Horticorp for Onam. 🍎

🏏 Phoenix vs MI London: Match Preview on Aug 12

Birmingham Phoenix will face MI London in the 32nd game of The Hundred Men's Competition 2026 on August 12, 2026. The match is scheduled to take place at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Birmingham Phoenix has won only one of seven games, while MI London has secured four wins from seven matches played. Despite Phoenix's star player Joe Clarke's 290 runs, MI London enters as the clear favourite due to their consistency. This contest will see MI London aiming to secure a spot in the eliminator. 🏏

☀️ UK solar eclipse: how to watch it safely 🧐

The UK is set to witness a rare solar eclipse this Wednesday, where the Moon will block up to 90% of the Sun. Experts warn that looking directly at the eclipse, even partially, can cause permanent eye damage. To watch safely, people must use certified eclipse glasses meeting ISO 12312-2 standards or stream it live. Regular sunglasses and DIY filters are not safe for viewing the solar event. Taking precautions ensures everyone can enjoy this amazing celestial show.

💊 Fake drug video sparks political fight in Punjab

A social media video allegedly showing intoxicated men triggered a political spat between AAP and BJP in Punjab. BJP Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh shared the clip, claiming it showed Punjab's 'zombie drug' issue. However, Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr Baljit Kaur exposed that the video was actually from Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, dated August 9, 2026. The incident, featuring two disoriented turbaned men, was used by the BJP to criticize the AAP government's drug handling. Both parties are now using this clip in their ongoing political battle over the state's drug narrative. 💊