India

Santa Monica's 1897 Shotgun House Saved, Now Serves as Preservation Center

Santa Monica's last remaining intact shotgun house, originally built in 1897, narrowly escaped demolition thanks to sustained efforts by community members and preservation groups. The historic structure was relocated several times before being permanently resettled in 2014. Following its final move, the building underwent restoration to ensure its long-term survival. It was subsequently repurposed as a Preservation Resource Center dedicated to public education. Today, the site serves as a living example of local history and the value of architectural conservation.

Benton Heights asked for a playground in 2012; $1m later its first park opens

Ludhiana Teen Dies After Swimming Session Amid Absence of Emergency Aid

A 15-year-old boy named Vansh died on August 29 in Ludhiana after going for a swim. His sudden death left his family and friends in shock and grief. The incident has raised serious concerns about the lack of emergency medical facilities near the swimming area. No immediate medical assistance was available at the site when the teenager collapsed.

From inheritance to halala: Uttarakhand Waqf Board’s bid to recast the nikahnama

PM Modi Returns to Shri Ram College After 12 Years as Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi revisited Shri Ram College of Commerce this Saturday, marking his first appearance at the institution since 2013. His 2013 visit had served as a platform to launch his national political campaign, at which point he had already completed 12 years as Gujarat's Chief Minister. Modi went on to become Prime Minister in 2014 and has now served 12 years in that role. During the recent visit, he reportedly repeated a memorable line from his original 2013 speech about a glass being half water and half air. The return to the same podium drew attention as a symbolic bookend between two major chapters of his political career.

PM Modi Targets Opposition With 'Naraaz Fufa' Jibe at Delhi College Event

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp verbal attack on the opposition during an address at a prominent Delhi college. He referenced his Independence Day speech delivered from the Red Fort on August 15, where he had coined the term 'Dimagi Naxals' to describe his critics. Modi described that remark as administering 'homoeopathic pills' to those who oppose him. He further referred to the opposition using the phrase 'Naraaz Fufa,' adding a satirical tone to his address. The speech blended political commentary with humor as Modi engaged with the college audience.

USCIS Denies, Revokes H-1B Petitions from IT Firm Over Wage Misclassification

US Citizenship and Immigration Services has denied and revoked several H-1B visa petitions submitted by a major IT consulting firm. The agency determined that skilled tech roles had been assigned to lower wage levels than their actual duties warranted. According to USCIS, this misclassification practice suppresses required wages and creates an uneven playing field for American workers. The agency stated the action was taken to uphold the integrity of the H-1B program and ensure accurate job classification. USCIS stressed that proper position categorization is a fundamental requirement under the H-1B visa system.

US Military Conducts Mass Polygraphs to Find Iran War Plans Leaker

The United States military has launched an investigation to identify who leaked sensitive information related to Iran war planning. According to a New York Times report, polygraph tests were administered to military officers and civilian employees of the US Military's Joint Staff. The tests focused on determining whether any of these officials had shared classified information with journalists. The sweeping lie-detector exercise reflects the seriousness with which US authorities are treating the alleged security breach.

Pakistan Bowled Out for Record-Low 55 in Their 200th T20I Against India

Pakistan were dismissed for just 55 runs in a T20 International against India, their lowest-ever total in the format. The innings collapsed dramatically as Pakistan lost six wickets for only eight runs despite a promising start. India's bowlers Charani and Rawat led the attack, triggering the historic batting implosion. The match coincided with Pakistan's 200th T20 International appearance, making the record low all the more significant. The result extended India's strong head-to-head record against their arch-rivals.

Action Taken Against Police After Rahul Gandhi Calls Injured Punjab Protester

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made a phone call to an injured protester in Punjab, drawing attention to the case. The call was made during a hospital visit by Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring. Following Gandhi's intervention, authorities initiated action against the police personnel involved. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between protesters and law enforcement in Punjab.

Punjab Police Arrest 25,000+ in Drug Crackdown Backed by 52,000 Public Tips

Punjab Police have arrested over 25,000 individuals as part of an ongoing anti-drug campaign, aided by nearly 51,979 tip-offs from the public. The operation has resulted in significant drug seizures across the state. Authorities recovered 3,757 kg of heroin, 964 kg of opium, and 45 tonnes of poppy husk during the crackdown. Police also seized 1,288 kg of cannabis and 71 kg of methamphetamine, commonly known as ICE. The campaign highlights a coordinated effort between law enforcement and citizens to combat drug trafficking in Punjab.

NHRC Seeks Report from Punjab on Custodial Torture Allegation After Anti-Drug Protest

India's National Human Rights Commission has sought a report from Punjab authorities over an alleged custodial torture case. The complaint was filed by Rajya Sabha MP Tarun Chugh on behalf of a man who was reportedly protesting against drug abuse in the state. The incident allegedly occurred during Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's 'Lok Milni' public outreach programme held at Sheron village in Sunam. The man is said to have faced custodial mistreatment following his participation in the protest at the event. The NHRC's intervention signals growing scrutiny over the treatment of citizens raising concerns about Punjab's drug menace.

'Second chance': Chimps used in hepatitis B experiments get health checks in Liberia

Multiple Causes Found in Balaghat Tribal Children Illness, Says Centre

An inquiry into a health crisis affecting tribal children in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, has found no single pathogen responsible for the illnesses and deaths. Central officials stated that multiple clinical factors appear to be behind the children's conditions. A total of 431 children were treated during the outbreak, with many having since recovered. Authorities have responded by distributing additional Measles-Rubella vaccines to the affected area. Steps have also been taken to purify local water sources as part of the containment effort.

Daman & Diu Launches SPARSH 2.0 to Boost Affordable Rental Housing for Workers

The union territory of Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Diu has launched SPARSH 2.0, an initiative aimed at expanding affordable rental housing for workers. The scheme incentivises developers with benefits such as increased floor space index and greater ground coverage allowances. To be eligible, developers must allocate at least 66% of units to economically weaker sections of society. The initiative is intended to improve worker welfare and boost industrial productivity in the region. SPARSH 2.0 will remain operational across all three territories until 2027.

Zipline Becomes Lifeline for Nepal's Devighat After Floods Destroy Bridges

Flash floods have devastated the Devighat region of Nepal, washing away bridges and cutting off the community from the outside world. With no road access remaining, a zipline has become the primary means of connection for local residents. The scale of destruction is evident from personal belongings — including shoes, a suitcase, and a guitar — left buried in silt and debris. The floods have displaced families and upended daily life across the affected area.

Thane Bakery Shut Down by Food Regulator for Using Banned Wood-Fired Oven

A well-known bakery in Thane, Maharashtra, has been sealed by food safety authorities for continuing to operate a wood-fired furnace. The closure follows a Bombay High Court order directing all bakeries across Maharashtra to discontinue the use of coal or wood-fired ovens. The court had mandated a switch to cleaner energy alternatives, including LPG, piped natural gas, or electric ovens. The bakery's failure to comply with this directive prompted regulators to take enforcement action against the establishment.

Ganguly congratulates Shami on 100th first-class match ahead of Duleep Trophy final

Mohammed Shami is set to play his 100th first-class match in the upcoming Duleep Trophy final. Former India captain Sourav Ganguly marked the occasion with a special congratulatory message for the pacer. Ganguly noted how rare it is for fast bowlers from the subcontinent to sustain such long careers. Shami has been in strong domestic form and is pushing for a return to the Indian national side. Bengal captain Ishan Kishan also spoke highly of Shami's drive and intensity during the campaign.

Congress replaces Bhupesh Baghel with Sachin Pilot as Punjab general secretary

Jharkhand SIR: FIR against four over alleged forged documents used for voter registration