🔭 Solar Eclipse 2026: MENA Visibility Map

A solar eclipse is scheduled to occur in 2026, with specific regions within MENA projected to witness the event. While detailed path data is forthcoming, the celestial alignment will affect several countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Preliminary reports suggest peak visibility might occur around specific dates in the latter half of the year. This astronomical event is being monitored by international space agencies for public viewing opportunities. Further announcements will detail the exact viewing locations and timings for the region. 🔭

✨ Bumble drops rule: anyone can message first

Bumble has officially scrapped its decade-old rule requiring women to initiate conversations on the dating app. This change applies to all matches, regardless of gender, and also extends the response time from 24 to 72 hours. The update comes after Bumble's Q2 revenue dropped 15.2% year over year to $210.5 million. Founder Whitney Wolfe Herd framed this as an evolution to better serve everyone's needs. The app is also exploring swipe-free features amid a broader slowdown in online dating. 📲

🔥 OnePlus Nord 6 gets ₹11,000 price drop

OnePlus is running a promotion for Independence Day 2026, offering discounts across its product range. Specifically, the mid-range Nord 6 is available with a total discount of 11,000 rupees in India. The phone is now listed at ₹44,499 for the 8GB/256GB version, down from the MRP of ₹52,999. This deal is boosted by up to ₹2,500 instant bank discounts on EMI purchases from select banks. The Nord 6 features a 165Hz AMOLED display and a 9,000 mAh battery.

✨ Dolby Vision 2 review on Hisense TV

Dolby Vision 2 is rolling out to select Hisense TV models globally via a firmware update. The reviewer tested it on a Hisense UR9 TV, noting that full features require specific Dolby Vision 2 mastered content. When a Dolby Vision signal plays, the TV defaults to a Dolby Vision Standard preset with new options. A Picture Intensity Slider allows fine-tuning over 30 image parameters for balanced results. The Authentic Motion feature is locked until Content Optimized Settings is enabled, waiting for new metadata. 📺

🕌 Milad-un-Nabi procession prep is on

Preparations for Milad-un-Nabi, set for August 26th, are actively underway by the Markazi Milad Juloos Committee. This central procession is scheduled to start after Zohar prayers from Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad. The route will cover several landmarks, concluding near Volta Hotel, with an expected large turnout. Committee officials met with Hyderabad City Police and GHMC Commissioners to discuss security and sanitation. Smaller processions will also join the main event, and guidelines are forthcoming to maintain discipline. 🕌

⛽ E20 fuel debate: Engine killer or just hype?

The BJP has refuted widespread internet claims suggesting E20 petrol damages vehicle engines. They stated that no engineering study proves E20 causes engine destruction or significant mileage drops. The government noted ethanol blending saved ₹1.97 lakh crore in forex and supported domestic producers. While a nominal 3% to 5% mileage drop is possible in older vehicles, the government defends the move. Future blends like E25 or E30 are not planned for immediate implementation.

💧 Govt vows to protect farmers' interests on water release

Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi stated that the State government is committed to protecting farmers' interests concerning canal water release. This was said during a preliminary meeting of the 126th Irrigation Consultative Committee in Munirabad, Koppal district. Currently, the Tungabhadra dam holds 82 tmcft of storage following recent good inflows. Despite recent rains, the state is still struggling with severe drought conditions. The government will decide on water release after consulting with elected representatives. 💧

🔬 Students get deep dive into public health research

Around 200 school students daily are experiencing public health research at ICMR-NINE in Bengaluru. The ICMR-SHINE 2026 program ran on August 11 and 12 to inspire classes 9 to 12. Students learned about COVID-19 vaccine development and AI-enabled cancer detection through interactive sessions. They were introduced to research on diseases like cancer and diabetes using data analytics and biostatistics. This initiative aims to spark scientific curiosity for future contributions to India's health goals. 🔬

👍 Railway TTI returns ₹10 lakh bag to passenger

A Travelling Ticket Inspector named A.K. Naga Sudheer showed integrity by finding a passenger's lost bag. This happened on the Visakhapatnam-Bengaluru Cantt. Express train in the Vijayawada division of South Coast Railway. The bag, containing valuables worth nearly ₹10 lakh, was found after the passenger deboarded at Ongole railway station on August 11, 2026. Naga Sudheer handed the bag to the Railway Protection Force, which returned it after verification. SCoR officials praised the TTI for upholding the reputation of Indian Railways.

🔭 Solar Eclipse in August 2026: Is it visible in India?

A solar eclipse, known as Surya Grahan, is scheduled to occur on August 12, 2026. This celestial event is expected to be visible across various parts of India. Specific timings and visibility details are currently under review by astronomical bodies. The phenomenon is being closely monitored by science enthusiasts and astronomers. Further updates regarding the precise visibility across Indian states are anticipated soon. 🔭

✅ Smart ration cards roll out for millions starting August 15

Smart ration cards are being introduced to boost transparency and ease for beneficiaries in the public distribution system. The State government plans to distribute these cards to 3.43 crore beneficiaries starting August 15. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will inaugurate this rollout in Sangareddy. Currently, 3.43 crore people are covered under the food security program, receiving 6kg of rice monthly. Officials have been directed to ensure smooth verification and distribution across all 33 district headquarters.