😟 US H-1B fee hike proposal shocks Indian professionals

The US government has proposed a massive new $103,265 application fee for H-1B visas. This proposal, from the Department of Homeland Security, targets international students and workers in the US. The fee is slated for cap-subject applications, which currently allow 65,000 visas annually. Experts fear this change eliminates previous exemptions for US-educated students. The rule will be published Tuesday and faces immediate legal challenges. 😟

😡 BPSC official's remark sparks student anger in Bihar

A controversial remark by BPSC Examination Controller Rajesh Kumar Singh escalated tensions surrounding the 70th BPSC examination. This incident occurred while students were protesting at Gardanibagh in Patna. The protests demand cancellation of the 70th BPSC exam and object to the TRE-4 process, which is set for two phases. Singh made the statement in response to allegations of irregularities and a potential paper leak during a media interaction. Students are demanding the release of the TRE-4 advertisement and await further action. 😡

🚀 AI unlocks new ways to print rocket metal

Artificial intelligence has discovered six novel methods for 3D printing rocket-grade alloys. This breakthrough was achieved by researchers at a major aerospace institute. The findings detail processes applicable to commercial 3D printing machines, potentially revolutionizing aerospace manufacturing. These techniques allow for the creation of incredibly strong materials needed for space travel. Future research will focus on scaling these methods for widespread industrial use.

🐭 Mole-rat queen uses cosmetic-like chemical to control breeding

A study in Nature identified isopropyl myristate (IPM) as a chemical used by naked mole-rat queens. Researchers found that breeding queens produce high levels of this compound, which is also used in skincare products. IPM is detected by mole-rats' sense of smell and suppresses reproduction in non-breeding females. This chemical signal influences hormones like prolactin, keeping other females infertile within the colony. Future research aims to map the exact molecular pathway connecting this smell to reproductive outcomes. 🐭

⛈️ Delhi-NCR chaos as heavy rain wreaks havoc

Heavy showers across north India caused flight diversions and massive traffic jams on Monday, August 24, 2026. Delhi-NCR bore the brunt, with Gurugram receiving 70mm of rain by 1:30 p.m. At least 15 flights were diverted from Delhi airport, while Jaipur also saw traffic disruptions due to downpour. In Himachal Pradesh, 98 roads were blocked, and power/water schemes were disrupted across the state. Authorities are managing the situation, with continued monsoon activity expected in several regions. 🌧️

🏛️ SC to decide on Tarun Tejpal's surrender plea

The Supreme Court will decide on Tarun Tejpal's request for exemption from surrender following his conviction. He was convicted and sentenced to 10 years by the Bombay High Court in a 2013 rape case. The court imposed multiple sentences and a fine of Rs 10.1 lakh on him. The Goa government opposes his plea, arguing his appeal is inadmissible without a specific surrender application. Justice Alok Aradhe has heard both sides and will pass an order soon.

🙅 PSG rejects Liverpool's dual transfer offer

Liverpool tried to negotiate a single transfer deal for Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye from PSG. The Champions League winners declined the proposal, wanting separate negotiations for each player. Liverpool is keen on Barcola, with a deal expected in the final week of the window. Meanwhile, another unnamed club is reportedly leading the race for Mbaye. PSG is pushing Mbaye towards higher bids, which his camp might disagree with.

🌱 Old Wheat Bacteria Fight Fungus in Plants

Bacteria found in ancestral wheat microbiomes are proving useful in protecting plants from root rot fungus. Researchers identified these beneficial microbes while studying wheat samples sourced from ancient agricultural practices. The study highlights findings from research conducted over several years on these specific plant-microbe interactions. This natural defense mechanism offers a potential sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides in farming. Future research will focus on applying these bacterial strains to commercial crops for improved plant health.

✨ GoT star swaps swords for wands in HP

Kit Harington is joining the Harry Potter franchise to play Gilderoy Lockhart in Season 2. He is taking over the role from Nicholas Hoult in this highly anticipated series. This casting news comes as Season 2, based on 'Chamber of Secrets,' starts shooting this fall. Harington previously voiced Lockhart in Audible's audiobooks late last year. The series also features John Lithgow as Dumbledore and Janet McTeer as McGonagall.

🚨 Bambiha gang members deported from Malaysia

Indian agencies executed a major operation against the Bambiha criminal network by deporting three key overseas operatives from Malaysia. These individuals included Jaspreet Singh, Ajay Singh, and Pawandeep Singh, who hailed from Faridkot and Sri Ganganagar district, Rajasthan. The deportation was announced by Union home minister Amit Shah on Monday. The gangsters are accused of extortion, arms and narco-trafficking, and a foiled grenade attack in Ludhiana. Indian agencies have reportedly facilitated the deportation of 51 hardened criminals in 2026 alone.

📱 Lava drops new Virat V1 Pro 5G at 13999

Lava has officially launched the all-new Virat V1 Pro 5G smartphone, promising a blend of premium experience and strong performance. The phone is available on Flipkart, with the launch starting on August 31st at 12 PM. It features a 6000mAh battery, Octa-Core Unisoc T8200, and a 50MP AI rear camera. This device is built to offer genuine value in the under INR 20,000 segment for discerning users. After the Flipkart launch, it will also be available through Lava's retail network from September 2026. 📱