✊ Workers union calls for protests over pension and DA hikes

The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) has announced nationwide demonstrations to push for key workers' demands. This union is organizing protests across India to pressure the government on several long-pending issues. Specific demands include raising the minimum pension to ₹7,500 and increasing the EPF ceiling from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000. The BMS is also strongly opposing the new Industrial Relations Code, alleging it has many anti-worker provisions. These actions aim to advocate for better rights for over 10 million unorganized workers. ✊

🩺 NCDs challenge shaping Viksit Bharat 2047

Latest ICMR-INDIAB study estimates 101 million Indians have diabetes and 136 million have pre-diabetes across the nation. Nearly 315 million people have hypertension, while 254 million are living with generalised obesity as of August 14, 2026. Chronic diseases significantly impact the economy and individual lives, especially during working years. Prevention is key, as up to 80% of certain conditions can be stopped by managing risk factors. Health must be a priority across all sectors to build a resilient India. 🩺

🏏 BJP wants CBI probe on Messi plan

A BJP leader demanded a CBI probe into the LDF's failed effort to bring Lionel Messi to Kochi. S. Suresh made this demand at a press conference held in Kochi on Friday, August 14, 2026. The attempt involved hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup-winning Argentina team at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in 2025. He stressed that the UDF government should not settle this issue with the LDF or Pinarayi Vijayan. Since GST evasion details have surfaced, a criminal case should be registered and arrests made. 🏏

🚨 Apple alerts users to spyware risks in 110 nations

Apple has issued a warning to iPhone users regarding the threat of spyware attacks. This advisory specifically targets users across 110 different countries globally. The alert was issued by Mezha, detailing the nature of these sophisticated cyber threats. The warning emphasizes the need for users to take proactive security measures to protect their devices. Apple is advising users to stay updated with the latest software patches for better protection.

🇮🇳 President Murmu starts Independence Day with Vande Mataram

President Droupadi Murmu began her Independence Day address with the full six-stanza version of Vande Mataram. This happened during the ceremony on August 15th at the Red Fort. This change follows her assent to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The new protocol legally protects Vande Mataram like the National Anthem. The government is also marking 150 years of Vande Mataram with year-long programs. 🇮🇳

🎉 Bengaluru's Freedom Habba: Know the drill 🇮🇳

Bengaluru is hosting the Freedom Habba 2026 at Vidhana Soudha on August 15, requiring significant city changes. Ambedkar Veedhi will be closed from 11 am, and Metro entry/exit will be suspended from 10 am to 9.30 pm. Around 18,000 people have already registered using QR codes for this major Independence Day event. Visitors must carry a valid ID card and utilize one of the 18 designated entry points. The celebration will feature a parade, cultural shows, and various exhibitions.

🛣️ HRDCL's tasks moving to HGCL for bigger projects

The Telangana government has ordered the transfer of all HRDCL works to HGCL for better integration and coordination. This move is happening in Hyderabad as HGCL's infrastructure scope is expanding significantly. The government sanctioned extra manpower and five dedicated land acquisition units for HGCL. This is due to overlapping mandates in development and the need for resources for major road projects. The MD of HGCL must review these additions as projects progress and discontinue them when finished. 🚧

⚽ Barca setting deadline for Julian Alvarez move

Barcelona is reportedly considering setting a deadline for the Julian Alvarez transfer operation. Hansi Flick and Deco are pushing for a resolution, as internal tension grows over the situation. The club expects to assess the matter with Alvarez's reps by the end of next week. Alvarez and Barça both believe the transfer is still viable despite current setbacks. The August 19 La Liga clash against Malaga could be a major turning point for the striker. ⏳

🗳️ GBA polls wait on SIR process completion

Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda stated that civic polls for the GBA depend on finishing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He mentioned this during The Hindu’s #THTalksBengaluru interaction held in Bengaluru on August 13, 2026. The SIR process, originally due by October 7, is now expected to wrap up by October 27 after two extensions. The Supreme Court has set the civic polls deadline for December 31, 2026, after recent extensions. The government remains committed to holding the city's polls post-SIR completion. 🗳️

🔪 Lawyer's Dad Stabbed in Domestic Dispute Drama

Two men have been arrested for allegedly stabbing an 80-year-old man, who is the father of a lawyer. The incident occurred in Murikkumpadam near Puthuvype on Thursday, August 13th, involving Mohandas. The accused allegedly attacked him after trespassing into his house while searching for his son, T.M. Dolgo. Police suspect the attack was retaliation for Dolgo representing the estranged wife of one of the accused in a matrimonial dispute. Mohandas has since been admitted to a private hospital.

💹 RBI speeds up FX swap closure for foreign deposits

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to close the foreign exchange (FX) swap facility for overseas deposits ahead of schedule. This move impacts banks across India regarding their foreign currency obligations. Recent inflows have surpassed the $50 billion mark. This action is part of the ongoing management of forex liquidity in the market. Further updates on the revised timeline are expected soon. 💹