🚨 US hits 60 entities with new Iran sanctions

The United States announced sweeping new economic sanctions against Iran and its trading partners to increase economic pressure. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declared this campaign as the "economic asphyxiation" of Iran amid the diplomatic deadlock. The measures target nearly 60 entities and individuals across the Middle East, China, Singapore, and Europe. These sanctions focus on sectors like digital assets, technology, and shipping, targeting networks aiding Iran’s oil and weapon procurement. Iran has rejected these sanctions, asserting they cannot achieve their goals by severing the country's economic arteries. ⛽

🔬 Cow Gut Enzymes Fight Tough Infections

IISc researchers discovered specific enzymes from a cow's gut that can break down biofilms on wounds and medical surfaces. This was found while targeting the threat posed by bacteria like *Acinetobacter baumannii* in healthcare settings. The study identified the enzyme CRhAB, which was highly effective against biofilms from *A. baumannii* and *Klebsiella pneumoniae* on August 25, 2026. These bacteria form strong barriers that resist standard antimicrobial treatments, causing persistent infections. Next, the team is developing gauze dressings and even an inhalable formulation for respiratory infections. 🔬

🚧 Gurugram road caves in after heavy monsoon rain

A service road at IFFCO Chowk in Gurugram caved in following heavy rain on Monday. The incident is linked to the GMDA's main sewer line running beneath the affected stretch of the road. Traffic police diverted vehicles to manage the situation, which was reported on August 24, 2026. This event highlights recurring infrastructure issues in the city during monsoon season. Authorities advised WFH and online classes starting August 25, 2026, to ease congestion.

🛡️ WhatsApp beefs up security with passkeys and stronger PINs

WhatsApp is rolling out major security upgrades including support for multiple passkeys and enhanced two-step verification. These updates are being implemented to make account authentication much harder to compromise across the platform. Users can now add more than one passkey for seamless Android and iOS authentication. Furthermore, the old six-digit PIN can be swapped for a longer, more complex password. Additionally, Android users will see more details on incoming calls from unknown contacts.

✈️ Air India needs $1.9B from owners amid losses

Air India is asking its owners, Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, for about US$1.5 billion in fresh equity. This request comes from the airline, which is undergoing a massive revamp, operating in New Delhi. The carrier and Air India Express posted combined losses of US$2.33 billion in the fiscal year ending March. These losses are compounded by Pakistan's airspace ban and network disruptions. The funding is needed immediately, though it will likely come in stages in the coming years. ✈️

🏏 Prasidh Krishna hits consistency milestone

Strike bowler Prasidh Krishna has brought his bowling average below 30 in the ongoing SSC Test match. He is playing for India in this series against Sri Lanka. His current average stands at 29.32 across nine Tests, which is an improvement. Coaches note his development and character in managing media pressure. This shows he is becoming a world-class bowler for India across all formats. 🏏

🏏 Coach on player clashes in Colombo Test

Tensions rose during the second India vs Sri Lanka Test in Colombo, leading to sanctions from the ICC for several players. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Asitha Fernando were docked 25% of fees and got a demerit point for an on-field altercation on opening day. Additionally, Prabath Jayasuriya received a demerit point for abusing ground equipment after his dismissal on Day 2. India's bowling coach Morne Morkel stated that while respecting the game is key, some banter shows good fighting spirit. He believes this competitive energy, between bat and ball, is ultimately a positive thing. 🏏

🏛️ BLOs: First link between citizens and Election Commission

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar highlighted that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) act as the initial connection point for citizens and the Election Commission. This was stated during an interaction program in Lucknow on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Over 500 BLOs and 30 BLO supervisors attended this session, which included a Q&A with Mr. Kumar. He called BLOs the foundational pillars of India's massive democracy, ensuring processes follow the Constitution. Following the April 2026 SIR, over 13.39 crore electors are on the UP voters' list, managed by 1.77 lakh BLOs.

👶 Baby 'Sold' for Rs 4.5 Lakh in Bihar Scandal

A shocking case of a newborn baby being allegedly 'sold' has surfaced in Bihar. The incident involves a baby and a dispute over a brokerage amount in Motihari. Reports indicate the transaction was reportedly set at Rs 4.5 Lakh. This disturbing event highlights serious ethical and legal issues within the area. Authorities are now investigating the matter to determine the full extent of the fraud. 👶

🏈 Rookie feels 'Rodgers effect' with Steelers QB

Steelers rookie Germie Bernard admitted to feeling anxiety sharing the field with Aaron Rodgers. Bernard, the 2026 Draft's 47th pick from Alabama, voiced this during the preseason. This nervousness stems from wanting to meet the impossibly high standard set by Rodgers over two decades. Despite the pressure, Bernard also appreciates the game knowledge Rodgers is teaching him on the sidelines. The Steelers' season will depend on young receivers like Bernard consistently creating separation for Rodgers. 🏈

💻 New Mac Mini & Mac Studio hit India with M6/M5 chips

Apple has officially launched the new Mac mini and Mac Studio in India today, featuring M6 and M5 Pro chipsets. These devices are available with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chipsets in the Mac Studio lineup. Pre-orders for both the Mac mini and Mac Studio start on August 25th, leading up to the general sale on September 22nd. The Mac mini with the M6 chip starts at ₹99,990, while the Mac Studio with M5 Ultra begins at ₹6,29,900. These new releases expand Apple's Apple Silicon portfolio with the introduction of the M6 and M5 Ultra chips. 🚀