🏛️ Tharoor questions mandatory Vande Mataram singing

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor criticized the Centre's push to make singing Vande Mataram in full mandatory at official functions. He noted that President Droupadi Murmu assented to the amendment, which was passed without discussion in Parliament. The new law requires the full National Song, which takes 3 minutes and 10 seconds, at the start and end of events. Tharoor questioned if audiences can reasonably stand for six minutes before and after functions. He feared the bill might actually reduce respect for the National Song. 😟

✨ Overwatch is leveling up its Battle Pass experience

Overwatch is rolling out a major revamp to its Battle Pass system to boost player choice. Blizzard announced these changes following the soft-reboot earlier this year. The updates, including the Battle Pass Revamp, will arrive with Season 4 on August 11th. Players will now choose from 5 tracks instead of a single linear path through 80 tiers. This change aims to give more options while keeping progression time consistent. 🎮

⚖️ ZEEL and Punit Goenka challenge SEBI's ban

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) and CEO Punit Goenka have challenged a SEBI order in the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT). This action relates to an improper disclosure case concerning a land parcel in Hyderabad. SEBI found that ZEEL secretly used this land parcel to secure loans for promoter-linked entities. This was done without board approval or proper disclosure, according to SEBI's finding. The parties are now pursuing their appeal against the market access ban. ⚖️

😟 Kashmiri Pandit staff placed on leave after terror threat

Hundreds of Kashmiri Pandit employees have been sent on administrative leave until August 25th following a purported threat letter. This action affects employees appointed under the Prime Minister's special employment package in the Valley. The threat letter named some individuals, prompting safer relocation for those affected to Jammu. Police are actively investigating the threats and implementing necessary security measures for everyone's safety. Security around minority areas has been intensified amidst recent attacks in the region. 😟

🔬 New light method checks Wigner crystal dynamics

Researchers have developed a novel optical technique to observe the internal movements within Wigner crystals. This breakthrough was achieved by scientists studying these complex quantum systems. The study details observations made during specific experimental setups. Wigner crystals are fascinating states of matter where electrons arrange themselves in a lattice structure. Future research will utilize this method to deepen the understanding of quantum dynamics. 🔬

🔬 Brain cell map reveals Alzheimer's defense shifts

Researchers have developed a map of brain immune cells detailing how immune defenses change during the Alzheimer's disease progression. This study was conducted by scientists at the University of California, San Francisco. The research observed these shifts across various stages, noting significant changes over time. The findings offer new insights into the complex pathology of Alzheimer's. Future studies will use this map to target more effective treatments. 🔬

🎾 Svitolina matches Serena's rare WTA streak

Elina Svitolina has advanced to the Canadian Open semi-finals in consecutive WTA 1000 events. The Ukrainian star reached the last four on Monday after defeating Ekaterina Alexandrova on Centre Court. This victory marked her 10th consecutive win at the WTA 1000 level, dating back to May. She is now only the second player over 30 to achieve this streak since 2009, emulating Serena Williams. Svitolina is set to face Iga Swiatek in the semi-final, needing to improve her serving game. 🎾

🔬 Pittsburgh researchers tackle solar eclipse mystery

Researchers in Pittsburgh are investigating the puzzling phenomenon known as 'shadow bands' during solar eclipses. This study is being conducted by scientists at the University of Pittsburgh. The research focuses on observations made during recent solar eclipse events. The goal is to better understand the atmospheric dynamics causing these unusual shadow formations. Future work will aim to refine models explaining the observed variations in these bands.

🎤 Punjabi singer blends Mexican vibes in California

California-based Punjabi singer Harveer Singh is gaining attention for his musical crossover blending Punjabi identity with Spanish and regional Mexican music. Singh, from Punjab's Doaba region, emphasizes that his turban is central to his identity and how audiences recognize his music. He collaborates with Talibelico, whose roots span Mexican and Indian cultures, performing regional Mexican music. This pairing reflects the historical cultural connection between Punjabi and Mexican communities in California. The artists are creating a crossover sound that mirrors the multicultural identity of the state. 🎶

🎬 boAt steps into smart projector game with CineHead F1

boAt has launched its CineHead F1 series, expanding its portfolio from audio to big-screen home entertainment. The series includes the CineHead F1 and CineHead F1 Pro, featuring Official Google TV 5.0 and 1080p native resolution. Both models support screen sizes from 40 to 120 inches and boast features like Dolby Audio. The CineHead F1 Pro starts at Rs 32,999, while the F1 is slated for a later August launch. This move also supports boAt's 'Make in India' initiative.

🕵️ Ex-boyfriend sends drugs to newlyweds in Kashmir

A former boyfriend was caught trying to deliver drugs to a newly married couple in Kashmir. The incident was reported to the police after the suspicious activity was noticed. The drugs were allegedly sent around the date of the marriage, though specific numbers weren't disclosed. This act highlighted issues of relationship complications intersecting with illegal activities. Authorities are currently investigating the matter to determine the full extent of the plot. 🕵️