🥇 Tanya Chaudhary smashes national hammer throw record

Tanya Chaudhary set a new national record in the hammer throw with a throw of 68.35m at the Indian Athletics Series Final. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, she achieved this feat at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. This record surpassed Anushka Yadav's previous national record of 67.02m set in June. The achievement brings Baghpat back to prominence, mirroring Rakesh Yadav's 2003 record. She is now preparing for the Asian Games starting on August 19.

💣 Iran's strikes heavily damaged US base in Bahrain

A senior US official admitted that Iran significantly damaged the Naval Support Activity Bahrain (NASB) facility. This base serves as a major logistics hub for US Navy operations in the Middle East. The facility has been heavily targeted by Iran since US and Israel launched airstrikes in late February. The US Navy is now assessing repair options for the damaged base, which is a key headquarters. Furthermore, US forces are facing escalating attacks across the region amid wider tensions. 😬

🏠 Kerala tribals still in makeshift homes seven years post-flood

Seven years after the Chaliyar river swallowed Vaniyampuzha tribal hamlet on August 8, 2019, 26 families remain in makeshift sheds. The hamlet is now split into upper and lower sections, totaling 161 members living in precarious conditions. A new bridge is ready, and a ₹2.46-crore housing proposal is expected to clear soon. However, residents still face risks from landslides and wild animals. They are hopeful for safe houses for their growing families in the near future. 🐘

⚕️ Rare Tailgut Cyst Removed Successfully

A rare medical condition, a tailgut cyst, was recently identified and surgically removed. The procedure took place at a medical facility, treating a patient presenting with symptoms. The cyst was successfully excised, marking a positive outcome for the patient's health. This diagnosis presents a unique challenge in pediatric surgical practice. Further monitoring will be conducted to ensure complete recovery.

🏛️ Kokers Theatre demolition sparks big council fight

A structural stability test is required before deciding the fate of the iconic Kokers Theatre in Fort Kochi. Mayor V.K. Minimol announced this amid a heated clash between the UDF and LDF councils regarding the building's future. The finance committee had estimated demolition costs at ₹4.50 lakh, with a total project estimate of ₹19.54 lakh. The Tourism department wants to convert the structure into a cultural center while addressing collapsing parts. Further action is pending on a separate rented structure adjacent to the main building. 🎭

🚢 Houthi seize Yemen port, threaten Red Sea shipping 🚢

Iran-backed Houthis seized control of Yemen's port city of Mocha on Thursday, advancing along the Red Sea coast to strategic islands. This development occurred while Gulf traffic faced restrictions through the Strait of Hormuz. The port is crucial for controlling shipping through the Red Sea, which handles about 12 percent of global goods. This escalation raises major concerns about freedom of navigation in a dangerous phase of the Yemen war. International bodies are now urging action as oil prices jump due to these route disruptions.

💔 Man confesses to killing kids over wife's new job

A 40-year-old man allegedly killed his two minor daughters before attempting suicide at a five-star hotel. The incident took place near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru last month. He allegedly strangled Shaik Zoya, 10, and Shaik Zehara, 5, on August 10. Imran claimed the murders stemmed from fears about his daughters' upbringing after his marriage worsened. He is currently in judicial custody at Bengaluru Central Prison. 😔

🎾 Sabalenka powers to US Open final against Rybakina

Elena Rybakina defeated Coco Gauff in a crucial match to position Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open final. Sabalenka, who previously lost the 2023 final to Gauff, has regained form after setbacks at other majors. Her victory over Pegula saw her break the Open era record for consecutive Grand Slam hard-court finals since the 2023 Australian Open. The 28-year-old is now set to compete in the championship match on her preferred surface. This run confirms Sabalenka's dominance on hard courts this season. 🎾

🌱 India's feminism is collective, not just one icon

Following the passing of iconic American feminist Gloria Steinem, the focus shifts to localized activism in India. In Maharashtra, women's groups marked 50 years of feminist activism through collective efforts and diverse issues. Major events include the 65-day Dignity March, where survivors walked over 10,000 kilometres across 24 States. Activism has historically focused on issues like land, caste, and violence, as seen in the 70s. These movements showcase resilience through community mobilization rather than relying on a single central figure. ✊

🏏 St Kitts vs Barbados: Cricket Action Update

The cricket match is currently underway between St Kitts & Nevis Patriots and Barbados Tridents at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados. St Kitts & Nevis Patriots finished their first inning with a score of 118/10 after 20 overs. Barbados Tridents started their second inning, reaching 65/3 in 9.6 overs. The match toss saw Barbados Tridents opt to bowl first. The conditions are fast with swing favourable for bowling. 🏏

🔥 Trump stands by Iran war amid Middle East flare-ups

Donald Trump stated on Thursday that he does not regret the Iran war, even with potential impacts on the US midterm elections. This statement followed renewed US attacks on Tehran and retaliatory strikes on Middle East bases. Brent oil climbed near $108 a barrel as Houthi-Saudi fighting intensified in the region. Iran-backed Houthis captured Yemen's port city of Mocha and advanced toward the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf subsequently expressed support for the Houthis' success.