📺 YouTube's new view count rule drops August 24

YouTube is changing its view counting method globally starting August 24, logging a view the instant a video or live stream begins playing. This applies to all formats, aligning long-form video with the standard already used for Shorts. Previously, a rough 30-second watch time was assumed for standard videos, but this threshold is now gone. The goal is metric parity to help creators accurately communicate their channel reach to sponsors. Although this change affects view counting, existing earning structures and Partner Programme requirements remain for now. 🚀

💹 RBI intervenes as Rupee nears high levels

The RBI is reportedly selling USD to support the rupee, with the USD/INR currently trading near 95.4 to 95.6. This action follows the pair hitting an all-time peak of 96.844 on May 20, 2026, making the rupee one of Asia's weakest currencies this year. Pressure stems from foreign equity outflows and high oil prices due to the Iran conflict. Furthermore, US tariff threats over Russian oil purchases add trade friction to the currency. The RBI seems focused on managing the depreciation pace rather than fighting the overall trend. 📉

🏛️ Ex-Ram Temple Official Gets Clean Chit in Theft Probe

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) issued a clean chit to Champat Rai, the former general secretary of the Ayodhya Ram Temple Trust. This development occurred after both Rai and Anil Mishra resigned on June 27 amid the investigation. The first SIT was formed on June 13 following a trust request, and its preliminary report was submitted on June 23. The initial inquiry flagged irregularities, noting cash thefts around 70 times between April 27 and June 5, 2026. A second SIT, under Supreme Court supervision, continues to look into the case.

⚠️ Fatty Foods Linked to Colorectal Cancer Risk

Studies have shown that consuming fatty foods can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. This finding comes from research published by various health organizations. The study data was released on August 18, 2026. Experts emphasize that dietary changes are crucial for cancer prevention efforts. People are advised to incorporate more fiber and reduce high-fat intake moving forward.

🏦 RBI steps in to stabilize rupee amidst market jitters

The Reserve Bank of India intervened across various financial markets to stabilize the Indian Rupee. This action was taken by the central bank in response to rising crude oil prices and increasing US yields. Specifically, the intervention addresses market volatility seen recently. The move aims to curb downward pressure on the currency against major global benchmarks. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely to maintain financial stability. 🏦

🏏 India vs Sri Lanka Test: SL struggles on Day 4

In the first Test between India and Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka currently stands at 35/3 while chasing a target of 371 runs. The match is being played at Galle, with Shubman Gill having won the toss and chosen to bat. Overnight, India scored 462 all out, leading Sri Lanka by 178 runs. This follows Sonal Dinusha scoring 100 and Niroshan Dickwella making 80 for Sri Lanka. The action continues on Day 4 of the ongoing cricket series. 🏏

📈 Paytm block deal moves 2.95% equity

A block deal transaction involving 2.95% of Paytm's equity has been executed, with the deal valued at Rs 2,949 crore. The transaction involved a promoter entity, though the exact details of the entity were not explicitly reported in the initial announcement. This significant stake sale took place in the recent market activity concerning the company. Such block deals are often used by large shareholders to divest a portion of their holdings. Future market movements will depend on how investors react to this large-scale change in promoter holding. 📈

☄️ Nuclear weapons to defend Earth from space rocks?

Scientists tested if a nuclear weapon could protect Earth from a dangerous asteroid using computer simulations. A team from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory studied a 160-metre-wide asteroid with a 1-megaton weapon. Researchers found explosions several metres away could vaporize material via X-rays, changing the asteroid's path. In one simulation, 98.2 per cent of the material was badly damaged when the blast was 10 metres away. These findings offer insight into nuclear disruption as a last-resort option for planetary defence. ☄️

❤️ Man dedicated his life to Tarpa tradition

Padma Shri Bhiklya Dhinda has made extraordinary contributions to preserving the Tarpa tradition. He tirelessly kept this beautiful Adivasi art form alive across generations. His dedication shows that culture survives through committed individuals, not just in museums. Preserving heritage is crucial for giving the next generation something meaningful to carry forward. His life is a true example of cultural guardianship.

💰 Kerala Lottery: 1 Crore Jackpot Hit! 🤑

The Kerala State Lottery Department announced the Sthree Sakthi SS-533 results for Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The first prize winner has ticket number SR 968860 and will win Rs 1 crore. Second prize winner SS 216008 takes Rs 30 lakh, while third prize winner SX 448302 gets Rs 5 lakh. This draw took place in Thiruvananthapuram, with winners from various locations. The complete list of winning numbers continues to be updated live.

✊ Adivasis oppose Ken-Betwa river link project

Tribal families are actively resisting the Ken-Betwa river-linking project, staging protests near the Barana river. This resistance is occurring in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, which is part of the Bundelkhand region. Construction work on the Daudhan dam, a key part of the project, is ongoing across the Ken river. The local communities are voicing their strong opposition, stating they do not want to be displaced by the development. The ongoing protests aim to halt the progress of this major infrastructure initiative.