India

Mumbai's New Marathi Language Rule for Cab Drivers Sparks Debate

Mumbai authorities have introduced a new rule requiring cab drivers to know Marathi, the regional language of Maharashtra. The mandate has drawn criticism from observers who question what practical problem the policy is intended to solve. Critics argue that the city's taxi and cab sector has functioned effectively for years without such a language requirement. The rule raises broader concerns about whether it addresses a genuine public need or serves a different political purpose.

Bihar's Siwan Police Chief Removed Over AK-47 Firing During Student Protests

The top police officer in Siwan district, Bihar, has been removed from his post following an incident in which an AK-47 was fired during student protests in July. The action comes after the constable who discharged the weapon was previously suspended. However, officers who were in command of Siwan at the time of the incident have not yet been reassigned to new postings. The removal signals a delayed but escalating accountability response from authorities over the controversial use of the assault rifle during the demonstrations.

Banks in Tripura to Remain Closed on August 19 for Regional Holiday

Banks across Tripura will be shut on August 19 due to a regional public holiday. This closure will affect all branch operations throughout the state on that day. Several other states are also set to observe bank holidays later in August on account of various festivals. However, digital banking services, including online banking and ATMs, will remain fully operational during the closure. Customers are advised to plan their banking needs in advance to avoid inconvenience.

David Warner convicted of drink-driving, ordered to install interlock device

Former Australian cricketer David Warner was convicted of mid-range drink-driving following a random breath test conducted on Easter Sunday. A court handed down the penalty and ordered Warner to install an alcohol interlock device in his vehicle. The judge noted the serious nature of the offence, particularly as children were present in the car at the time. While the court acknowledged the potential media scrutiny and financial repercussions Warner may face, deterrence was cited as a key factor in the sentencing decision.

Webb's 'little red dots' puzzled astronomers; this galaxy may hold the answer

Russia warns UK over Ukraine drone supplies, says Britain will face ‘consequences’

India Eyes Duty-Free Sugar Imports to Tackle Record-High Prices

India is weighing limited duty-free sugar imports along with stricter stock limits to ease pressure on domestic supplies. Wholesale sugar prices have surged nearly 20% since early August, reaching record highs. Seasonal festival demand is further straining supplies, as consumption of sweeteners typically spikes during this period each year. The government is currently evaluating multiple policy measures to stabilize market conditions.

Cyprus grape helps Australian vineyards cope with extreme heat and use less water

Dia Mirza reflects on co-stars, praises Salman Khan, Bachchan and Madhavan

Actress Dia Mirza recently shared her experiences working with several prominent Bollywood co-stars over more than two decades in the industry. She described R Madhavan as someone who made her feel safe during her film debut at the age of 19. Dia praised Amitabh Bachchan for his professional discipline and called Salman Khan the most generous person she has collaborated with. She also described Jimmy Sheirgill as an ever-evolving actor. Dia was most recently seen on screen in the film Operation Safed Sagar.

Blast Near Kabul School Injures Around 50 Children; UN Condemns Attack

An explosion near a school in Kabul, Afghanistan, injured approximately 50 children. The United Nations condemned the attack, describing it as a heinous act. The incident highlights the ongoing security threats faced by students in Afghanistan. No further details about the perpetrators or exact timing were confirmed in the available report.

UK Eyes Land Value Tax to Replace Stamp Duty and Council Tax

The UK government is considering a major overhaul of its property tax system, potentially replacing stamp duty and council tax with a land value tax. Under the proposed changes, owners of high-value homes could face significantly higher annual tax bills. The shift may lead to a decline in property prices as buyers factor in ongoing tax costs. First-time buyers could gain from reduced upfront costs, while second-home owners and property investors may bear a heavier financial burden.

Indore Designer Who Failed JEE Twice Builds Rs 2 Lakh Freelance Career

An Indore-based designer who failed the JEE entrance exam twice has gone on to build a freelance career earning Rs 2 lakh, drawing attention after entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo shared the story online. Warikoo used the example to argue that talent is often overlooked when filtered through college rankings and institutional labels. The post sparked a broader debate in India about the country's heavy reliance on educational credentials as a measure of ability. While some supported Warikoo's view, critics cautioned that such outcomes represent exceptions rather than the norm. The discussion has reignited calls for evaluating individuals on demonstrated skills rather than degrees alone.

Delhi HC Rejects Default Bail for Red Fort Blast Accused Jasir Wani

The Delhi High Court has denied default bail to Jasir Bilal Wani, an accused in the 2025 Red Fort car bomb blast case. The court dismissed his appeal against an earlier trial court order refusing him bail. Wani was arrested in November 2025 on charges of supporting the alleged terror attack. A National Investigation Agency chargesheet had identified him as the in-house engineer of the terror module involved in the case.

Sunny Deol's Batwara 1947 nears Rs 29 cr in 5 days, eyes Rs 30 cr milestone

Batwara 1947, starring Sunny Deol, has collected a total of Rs 28.90 crore at the domestic box office within its first five days of release. The film earned Rs 0.40 crore on its fifth day, having posted a strong opening weekend of Rs 26.50 crore. Released on August 14, 2026, the film is now competing against new releases Awarapan 2 and Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Despite the heightened competition, the film continues to draw audiences and is on track to cross the Rs 30 crore mark in India.

Unnati Hooda wins BWF World Championships debut, credits father who quit job to coach her

Indian shuttler Unnati Hooda made a winning start at the BWF World Championships, defeating her opponent in straight games on her debut. After the match, she paid an emotional tribute to her father, who gave up his job to dedicate himself to coaching her. Unnati credited his sacrifices as a key factor behind her progress in the sport. Meanwhile, Ayush Shetty's upset victory over a top-ranked player has further motivated her to stay focused on her own game. She expressed determination to continue performing at her best throughout the remainder of the tournament.

Top 10 Innovators Recognised at Vande Bharatam Grand Finale

Ten leading innovators were honoured at the grand finale of the Vande Bharatam initiative. The recipients were chosen from an inaugural group of over 50 innovators sourced from across India. The event marked a significant milestone as the first cohort of the programme was celebrated. The initiative aims to recognise and promote innovation talent from various parts of the country.

Trump Aide Natalie Harp Was With President During Turkey Flight Security Scare

A security scare prompted officials to quietly move US President Donald Trump off Air Force One following the NATO summit in Turkey. Natalie Harp, a close aide to Trump, was among those who accompanied him during the incident. Harp has been a trusted figure in Trump's inner circle and traveled alongside him at the time. The nature of the specific security threat has not been publicly detailed.

Himachal Pradesh to Propose Reduction in IAS, IFS, IPS Officer Strength

Himachal Pradesh is preparing to formally propose a reduction in the number of All India Services officers to the central government. The move aims to cut down on bureaucratic expenditure in the state. Officials confirmed that the proposal will be submitted to the Centre shortly. The decision reflects the state government's efforts to streamline administration and manage fiscal pressures.

Newspaper editor to fake ‘PMO official’: This J&K man ‘duped’ people of Rs 4 crore

India's Exports Rise 19.6% Despite Cargo Rate Surge Amid US-Iran Tensions

India recorded a notable 19.6% jump in exports even as cargo rates surged amid rising US-Iran tensions. The growth comes despite global shipping disruptions that have pushed freight costs higher. A key factor behind the resilience is India's broadening export base, with the country now selling to a wider range of markets. This diversification means Indian exports are no longer heavily reliant on a small set of traditional destinations. The shift signals a structural change in how India engages with global trade.