🤔 Tharoor questions Vande Mataram's long singing time

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor questioned the practicality of requiring the full rendition of Vande Mataram at official functions. His concerns were raised after President Droupadi Murmu assented to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The new law mandates the full song at the start and end of functions, with a full rendition taking 3 minutes and 10 seconds. Tharoor argued this extended time, alongside other protocols, could test audience patience. This comes as the government plans year-long commemorations marking 150 years of Vande Mataram. 🇮🇳

🧐 Meta's 'spy glasses' banned in UK spots

Meta's smart glasses, which were promoted with celebrity endorsements, are facing significant pushback across the UK. Various venues, including Wetherspoons and Soho House, are now telling customers to remove the £359 devices. This crackdown comes after sales tripled globally last year, with over 7 million pairs sold worldwide. Venue owners are concerned about guest privacy invasion, which is exacerbated by the 'pervert glasses' nickname. The industry is struggling with the issue of indoor use, making privacy the main hurdle for the technology. 🧐

🌊 Cars24 fined for using boat in flooded Gurugram

Cars24 received a ₹50,000 challan for deploying a boat on a flooded road in Gurugram. This incident occurred in the city, involving the company's operations during heavy rains. The fine was issued after observations of the vehicle navigating the waterlogged street. Such actions are seen as non-compliance with local traffic regulations during severe weather conditions. Authorities are now monitoring how the company manages such emergency transport situations going forward.

🤖 Motorola reveals Android 17 update list

Motorola has officially listed the devices that will get the Android 17 stable update. The update is rolling out to models like the Motorola Edge 2025, with Razr 70 and Edge 70 series coming next. Android 17 brings HelloUI enhancements, including Dynamic Island-style Live Updates and upgraded Moto AI called Qira. The rollout will expand gradually across various models over the coming weeks and months. Users can try the software early by applying for beta slots through official Motorola community forums. 📱

🏏 KKR is leading the charge for Hardik Pandya trade

KKR is currently leading the pursuit of Hardik Pandya for the IPL 2027 season. The Kolkata Knight Riders are actively involved in the trade negotiations for the star player. Specific details regarding the trade value or timeline have not yet been officially announced as of now. This move is seen as a major strategic push for KKR to bolster their squad for the next cycle. Fans will be waiting for official updates on this high-profile transfer soon.

🩺 Health checks aren't just for seniors, doctor says

Health screenings are crucial for young Indians to catch diseases like cancer early, contrary to older beliefs. A cancer surgeon advised that disease age in India is often earlier than chronological age. Young women should start cervical screening between the ages of 21-25, and metabolic panels should be checked in the thirties. Colonoscopy should start ten years before a family member's diagnosis, and mammography is recommended in your forties. Family history significantly overrides standard age guidelines, making early awareness vital.

🎬 Haiwaan teaser drops August 12 with Akshay, Saif

The upcoming thriller film Haiwaan is set to release its teaser on Wednesday, August 12th. Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan will star in this movie, which is directed by Priyadarshan. The film features Boman Irani, Saiyami Kher, and Shriya Pilgaonkar, with the worldwide release slated for September 11, 2026. This collaboration marks a shift for Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan into the thriller genre. The promotional campaign is expected to ramp up after the teaser's release. 🎬

🦟 Bengaluru faces health risks with monsoon illnesses

Monsoon showers in Bengaluru have brought a rise in seasonal illnesses, prompting medical experts to issue warnings. Doctors noted increasing cases of H1N1 and dengue across the city. According to experts, these illnesses are rising as people are exposed to rain and mosquitoes since the arrival of the monsoon. Prevention tips include eating nutritious food and keeping surroundings clean to boost immunity. People are advised to seek immediate medical help if symptoms worsen, especially in crowded areas. 🦟

📉 Bihar liquor ban faces scrutiny over losses and trade

A recent study by NCAER recommended that Bihar should end its liquor prohibition and instead regulate sales. This research was presented last week as Bihar completed 10 years of the complete alcohol ban. The report estimates that the state loses 14% to 15% of its annual revenue due to the ban. The study also noted a rise in illicit trade and alternative intoxicants in the state. Despite these findings, key political allies are strongly opposing any repeal of the current policy. 🧐

🩺 TN Assembly pushes to drop NEET for UG medical admissions

The Tamil Nadu Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on August 11, 2026, demanding the Union government abolish NEET for undergraduate medical courses. Health Minister K.G. Arunraj moved the resolution, citing exam irregularities and loss of lives across the state. The resolution suggests admissions should be based on Class XII marks, arguing NEET harms rural students. Previously, in 2021, a similar bill was passed but lacked presidential assent. Moving forward, Arunraj suggested shifting education to the State List for a permanent fix. 🩺

😠 BJP calls for 'Jharkhand Bandh' over student crackdown 😠

The BJP has called for a statewide 'bandh' in Jharkhand following the police action against protesting students. This action occurred in Ranchi, where students were protesting alleged irregularities in JPSC-JSSC exams. The protest escalated after police used water cannons and batons on August 10, 2026. The BJP demands answers from the Hemant Soren government regarding the force used against the marchers. Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto was hospitalized amidst the chaos of the demonstrations.