🌑 Solar Eclipse 2026: 5 Wild Facts to Know 🌑

A total solar eclipse is set to occur on August 12, 2026, making it a rare celestial event. The Moon's shadow will sweep over Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, Spain, and Portugal. Totality duration will be less than two minutes in most spots, though it could reach 2.5 minutes in Greenland and northern Russia. The time of day varies widely, from noon in northern Russia to near sunset in Spain. During totality, it is safe to look at the Sun, but special eyewear is needed otherwise.

🏛️ Creamy layer can't apply to SC/ST, says govt

The government informed the Supreme Court that the 'creamy layer' concept cannot be applied to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe reservations. This doctrine has historically only been applied to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India. The Centre stated that reservation policy relies on social and historical criteria, not just economic status. Any change, like adding income-based preferences, requires a thorough study. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment noted only Parliament can decide this extension. ⚖️

🧵 Modi celebrates India's handloom legacy

Prime Minister Modi marked National Handloom Day by honoring the rich tradition of Indian handloom crafts. He addressed the significance of the sector in weaving India's cultural tapestry across the nation. During the event, he highlighted the contributions of weavers and mentioned the growing support initiatives. The celebration aimed to boost the visibility and economic standing of local weavers. Future plans include strengthening supply chains for these traditional artisans. 🇮🇳

🐠 German fish release becomes ecological threat in Spain

In 1974, a German fisherman released thousands of juvenile Wels catfish into Spain's Ebro River for sport fishing purposes. This introduced species has since become a dominant predator across many Spanish waterways. Five decades later, these fish are targeting endangered migratory species like Allis shad. Experts call the situation an “ecological time bomb” because native ecosystems aren't prepared for such a large predator. Scientists predict the catfish will spread further upstream, potentially aided by climate change. 🐟

🦴 Teenager took abbey relic, widow returns it 70 years later

An abbot's kneecap and medieval tile were taken by an 11-year-old schoolboy in 1956 during an archaeological dig at Glastonbury Abbey. The items were kept by George Box, who later moved to Australia in the 1970s. Following his death in 2025, his widow returned the artefacts to Somerset this summer. The return began after an unexpected email to Glastonbury Abbey late last year. The relics are now displayed in the abbey's museum. 🦴

🧐 Foreign money in Manipur conflict raises concerns

Allegations suggest that Sanghis are leveraging foreign funding to fuel the ongoing conflict in Manipur. This issue primarily involves factions operating within the state of Manipur. The reports specifically mention funding activities around the date of March 15, 2024. The context points towards external financial influence potentially escalating local tensions. Authorities are now set to investigate these financial flows to ensure stability. 🧐

🏛️ DMK sticks to opposition on delimitation bill

The DMK has clarified that it has consistently opposed the delimitation bill from the beginning, despite recent buzz about softening its stance. This clarification came from Udhayanidhi Stalin, confirming the party will continue its opposition to the exercise. The bill aims to redraw constituencies based on the 2011 Census, potentially raising Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850. Chief Minister Vijay has called a meeting with state MPs to discuss the proposed delimitation. The DMK demands basing delimitation on the 1971 Census for the next 25 years. 🧐

🏛️ DMK confirms opposition to delimitation bill

Udhayanidhi Stalin clarified that the DMK has always opposed the delimitation exercise from the very beginning. This statement came in response to buzz surrounding the bill's potential reintroduction by the Centre in Tamil Nadu. The delimitation bill aims to redraw constituencies based on the 2011 Census, potentially increasing Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850. The DMK insists on using the 1971 Census and demands a 50% increase in seats for all states. Chief Minister Vijay has since called a meeting with state MPs to discuss the proposed delimitation. 🧐

🚀 Emami Agrotech launches WeMe in India's snack market

Emami Agrotech has officially entered the Indian ready-to-eat snacks market with the launch of its new brand, WeMe. This debut happened on Thursday, August 6, 2026, starting in Kolkata, the Emami group's headquarters. Initially, three product categories are available, including a choco hazelnut spread and potato chips, across major cities. The company plans a ₹750 crore investment to grow WeMe into a ₹1,000-crore brand in the next five to seven years. Furthermore, they aim to create around 4,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities through this venture.

🧐 Govt tech fund benefits private firms linked to selection panel

A government technology fund has allocated resources to specific private companies. These selected firms have connections to the very panel that made the selection. The funding decisions involved several companies across various sectors. This situation raises questions about the impartiality of the selection process. Authorities are expected to address these governance concerns soon. 🧐

👻 Mysterious well in Gujarat sparks local buzz

A well in Morbi, Gujarat, has been described by locals as being 'haunted,' creating a sense of unease in the village. Villagers have expressed significant shock and concern regarding this mysterious structure. Reports indicate that the well has been a subject of local rumors and observations over recent weeks. The unusual nature of the well has led to widespread discussion among the local community. Authorities are expected to investigate the source of these claims soon.