📈 What to watch before Aug 20 market session

US stocks kicked off higher on Wednesday as Treasury yields dipped following a buyback increase announcement. Brent crude futures climbed to $91.20 a barrel, while US jobless claims data is due Thursday evening. India will release its July 2026 core sector growth data on the same day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's CCEA also approved four railway multitracking projects costing ₹9,450 crore. These projects aim to add about 410 km to the Indian Railways network by 2030-31.

📜 CM Zoramthanga gets degree after 60 years

Former Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga is set to finally receive his undergraduate degree certificate this Thursday. He took the final exam in 1966 from Dhanamanjuri College in Manipur, earning a second-class result. He couldn't collect it later because he went underground as part of the MNF's armed struggle. The Vice-Chancellor will hand over the certificate at a ceremony on August 20th. Zoramthanga is also set to give a lecture reflecting on his political journey.

😔 Israel admits firing on child symbol of Gaza's pain

The Israeli military has announced a criminal investigation into the killing of Hind Rajab, a five-year-old girl. This incident occurred in Gaza City on January 29, 2024, after Israeli forces allegedly fired over 300 bullets at her car. The military stated the investigation was due to alleged failures in coordinating the Palestine Red Crescent ambulance movement. Despite this admission, family members are demanding a full international probe to ensure accountability for all victims. People in Gaza remain skeptical about the outcome of the domestic military review.

🏏 Adams powers Hampshire to victory over Surrey

Georgia Adams led Hampshire to a four-wicket win against Surrey at Guildford. She played for Hampshire, while the match took place at Guildford. Adams scored 115 runs and took three wickets on the date of the game. This performance keeps Hampshire's hopes alive for an automatic spot in the final next month. Nancy Harman finished unbeaten to see Hampshire cross the finish line. 🏏

⚖️ Legal groups plan protest against BCI chief

'Legal cockroaches' are organizing a protest to demand the resignation of BCI chairman Manan Mishra. This agitation will take place at 10am on Thursday, August 20, in response to the NALSAR, Hyderabad row. The protest stems from the BCI's initial temporary freeze on NALSAR enrollments for 2026. The Bombay Bar Association had previously condemned Mishra's actions and called for his resignation. The BCI has since withdrawn the ban but will proceed with a factual inquiry into the controversy. ⚖️

😠 Protest over hotel license gets police action in Bengaluru

An FIR has been registered against seven individuals for allegedly disrupting traffic during a protest in Bengaluru. The protest occurred on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, outside the BNCC office in Byatarayanapura. The issue stems from the rejection of a hotel business license application by M.Y. Basappa. The initial application for R.P. Bar and Restaurant was rejected on November 14, 2025, due to residential zoning issues. Police registered the case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, following the disruption. 😠

🏅 Punjab gears up for massive 10 lakh player sports carnival

The Bhagwant Mann government is organizing the fourth edition of Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan, expecting over 10 lakh players to participate across Punjab. The games will run from September 5 to November 29, featuring 38 sports and 4 para-sports across all 23 districts. State-level events are scheduled from October 10 to November 23, with para-sports taking place in Ludhiana. This event aims to spot village talent and prepare athletes for bigger national and international competitions. Winners at the state level will receive cash prizes and Gradation Certificates for government job quotas. 🏆

🧐 Pentagon rethinking Gulf troop presence after Iran war costs

The Pentagon is currently weighing a reduced military presence in the Persian Gulf following the Iran war. This assessment is happening in Washington after significant damage to US bases in the region. The conflict, which included over 200 damaged facilities, is estimated to cost $37.5 billion by September. This situation is prompting a reevaluation of US force deployment, potentially moving troops westward. Further changes to the US military posture remain uncertain and require senior approval. 🧐

🚧 Delhi clears Pakistan High Commission encroachments

Delhi authorities recently took action to clear encroachments found outside the Pakistan High Commission premises. The operation was conducted by local administrative teams in the area. The clearance targeted several structures that had been illegally built near the diplomatic post. This action follows ongoing tensions between the two nations regarding border issues. Authorities are expected to monitor the area to ensure no further illegal construction occurs. 🚧

🕷️ Spider-Man stays on top against Insidious 6

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is projected to keep its No. 1 spot in its fourth weekend, beating Insidious: Out of the Further. Both Sony films are competing in the box office this weekend. Brand New Day is estimated to earn $35 million to $40 million, while Insidious 6 targets $23 million to $27 million. The superhero sequel has already crossed $800 million domestically after 19 days. This success is happening as summer revenues surpass $4 billion for the second time since COVID. 🕷️

🚁 Flying pocket camera raises over $230k on Indiegogo

HoverAir has successfully launched the Versa, the world's first flying pocket camera, on Indiegogo. The device was developed by HoverAir, known for its self-flying drones, and is available globally. As of the writing, the campaign has raised over $230,000 with 59 days remaining. This camera merges a gimbal camera with attachable wings to function as a self-flying drone, promising cinema-quality video. Mass production is expected to begin next month, targeting an October delivery for backers. 📸