🛰️ Space 'power banks' to save old satellites

A Bengaluru startup named Aule Space is developing 'jetpack' satellites to extend the lifespan of ageing spacecraft. These small craft latch onto existing, fuel-depleted satellites to take over their propulsion duties. The company recently validated its tech at an Isro facility used for the SpaDeX mission. This approach avoids complex refueling, allowing docked units to potentially add up to 5 years of service. Aule plans an in-orbit demonstration next year, aiming for the world's first private non-cooperative docking in LEO. 🛰️

🚢 Iran, Oman near Hormuz deal amid US tension

Iran claims it is close to finalizing a deal with Oman to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after five months of conflict with the United States. This critical waterway, through which one-fifth of global oil and LNG flows, is a major Middle East flashpoint. Iran is reportedly seeking fees between 5 to 7 percent of cargo value, while the US wants no charges. The proposed agreement would grant Iran control over strait traffic, shifting regional power dynamics. Iran has warned Gulf states that any US attack would trigger retaliation against regional energy infrastructure. ⛽

🩺 92-year-old doctor still operating and thriving

Dr. Suri Srimathi, a gynaecologist, continues her practice at age 92 in Hyderabad despite social boycott. She has delivered over 200,000 babies across more than six decades of medical service. Her journey began with an MD in obstetrics and gynaecology in October 1965 after initial graduation in 1958. She maintains her routine by starting days with yoga and actively participating in medical conferences. Dr. Srimathi has expressed no plans to retire, driven by a strong sense of community duty. 🩺

🚨 Thailand school shooting leaves 7 dead

A shooting incident occurred at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Bang Kruai district, Nonthaburi province, on August 7, 2026. The shooter, identified as a teenager, was among the seven people killed in the attack. Police confirmed that fifteen people were wounded during the incident. The Ministry of Education has ordered urgent coordination to support all affected individuals. Officials are now focused on prioritizing student safety and providing necessary aid. 😔

🏍️ New Bajaj Pulsar 150 spotted before launch

The all-new Bajaj Pulsar 150 has been spotted at an Indian dealership just before its official launch. This updated model features a new air and oil-cooled 150cc engine and a completely redesigned frame and monoshock suspension. The bike will boast an LED headlight, a new color LCD display with Bluetooth, and disc braking at the front. This replacement comes as the Pulsar celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The Pulsar 150 is anticipated to launch in a few weeks, marking a major update for the series. 🏍️

🏏 Sri Lanka starts tour match against India

The tour match commenced on August 7-9, 2026, with SLC XI electing to bat first. The match is being played at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground in Colombo. The day's play started at 10:00 AM local time, with scheduled breaks at 12:00-12:40 PM and 14:40-15:00 PM. This is a three-day match featuring both Sri Lanka Cricket XI and India. The team performance updates are being tracked live during this fixture. 🏏

🏏 Gill sidelined for warm-up match due to injury

India captain Shubman Gill missed the first day of the warm-up match against Sri Lanka XI. The injury occurred during Thursday's practice at Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground, Colombo. BCCI reported that Gill suffered an impact injury to his right ring finger, leading to his precautionary absence. KL Rahul is currently leading the team in Gill's place for these fixtures. India is set to play two Tests against Sri Lanka, starting August 15 in Galle. 🏏

🦠 Africa CDC uses old Ebola vaccine in DR Congo

Africa CDC confirmed Thursday that it will deploy a vaccine designed for the Zaire Ebola strain against the current outbreak. This crisis is happening in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has seen nearly 4,000 cases since May 15. Over 1,800 people have died from the Bundibugyo variant across five provinces in the eastern region. Jean Kaseya noted that vaccinated individuals showed no deaths, suggesting a protective level of immunity. The vaccine will be offered in eastern provinces of Ituri and North Kivu.

🧶 National Handloom Day celebrates India's weaving skills

National Handloom Day is celebrated annually on August 7 to honor India's rich handloom heritage and the talent of its weavers. This day recognizes the skills of 35.22 lakh weavers and allied workers, where 72% are women. The day commemorates the Swadeshi Movement launched on August 7, 1905, and PM Modi marked the 12th celebration in 2026. Government schemes aim to boost the sector, which currently stands at ~ ₹1,330.96 crore in exports for 2025-26. Future focus remains on global market linkages while protecting traditional crafts from mass production. 🧵

🤫 Soha recalls learning about Saif and Amrita's secret wedding

Soha Ali Khan revealed how she and Saba Pataudi first learned about Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh's surprise 1991 wedding. While they were in school, they were told by parents not to share the news which appeared in newspapers. Soha mentioned her French teacher told her about the last-minute affair. Designer duo Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla later confirmed witnessing the intimate ceremony. The couple stayed married for 13 years before Saif married Kareena Kapoor in 2012.

🚨 UGC flags 32 fake universities, states must act

The Central Government has instructed all states and Union Territories to start legal action against 32 fake universities. This list of self-styled institutions was published by the UGC in February 2026. The government also asked states to ensure the closure of these places and take action against those misleading students. The UGC has already issued various notices and published public alerts regarding these institutions. States must now register FIRs and report any other unlisted fake universities operating in their areas. 🚨