How did US debt go from a projected $0 in 2009 to more than $40 trillion by 2026

The US national debt, once projected to fall to zero by 2009, has now surpassed $40 trillion, rising from $10 trillion in 2008 due to escalating deficits. In contrast to the 1.2% budget surplus in 2001, current deficits reach approximately 6%. Interest payments account for 15% of federal spending, exceeding defense costs.

Meghalaya HC steps in after KSU rally violence, seeks action against culprits

The Meghalaya high court has ordered intensified efforts to identify and prosecute those involved in the violent Khasi Students’ Union rally in Shillong, which resulted in arson and injuries. Authorities reported 31 vehicles vandalized and 16 injuries; 15 FIRs have been filed. KSU leaders were arrested amid rising tensions between Assam and Meghalaya, prompting dialogue invitations from the government amid ongoing unrest.

Reptile spotted in monsoon? Here’s what to do

A python was rescued from a DDA Park in Delhi's Forest View Apartments, likely displaced by monsoon flooding which forces wildlife into urban areas. This incident highlights the increasing encounters with snakes in residential spaces across Delhi NCR. Residents are urged to keep gardens tidy and to avoid attempting to handle snakes, calling experts for assistance instead.

Why conservation wins depend on readiness of the resources, not just policies

Wildlife rescue and relocation require operational readiness, not just conservation policies. Initiatives like the one in Banni, Gujarat, enhance field capabilities through specialized transport and mobile veterinary units. The successful relocation of 20 blackbucks exemplifies how policy and preparedness must align. India's progress in wildlife protection depends on effective infrastructure and responsiveness to emergencies, turning intent into impactful conservation.

‘He’s gonna die’: Jill Biden gives ‘scary’ update on Joe Biden amid cancer fight

Dr. Jill Biden shared her emotional journey alongside husband Joe Biden’s battle with metastatic prostate cancer during an interview on the Jaime Kern Lima Show, expressing fear yet determination to cherish their time together. She commended Joe’s strength and emphasized their focus on positivity amid challenges. Cancer, diagnosed last year, has drastically changed their lives.

'Diverting attention from Vande Mataram row': BJP attacks Rahul over dharna

The BJP labeled the Congress a "party of anarchy" following Rahul Gandhi's sit-in protest at a Delhi police station regarding an FIR on pellet gun use during a protest. BJP leaders condemned Gandhi's actions as attention-seeking, alleging it aimed to divert criticism over the Congress’s stance on Vande Mataram. A judicial committee is investigating the incident.

6-year-old takes ₹100 to buy mum a birthday gift at jewellery stall

A six-year-old girl, Anya, earned praise online after a touching interaction with Kyte Jewels at an exhibition, where she tried to buy her mother a birthday gift with just ₹100 and a drawing. The jewellers accepted her offer and gifted her a small silver chain, emphasizing that the memory mattered more than the transaction.

Step inside Sabyasachi’s new 26,000-sq-ft Mehrauli store inspired by Kolkata

Sabyasachi Mukherjee is set to unveil a 26,000-square-foot flagship store in Mehrauli on August 25, showcasing fashion, High Jewellery, and art in a museum-like setting enriched with antiquities. The opening coincides with a collaboration with New York's Metropolitan Museum, debuting a Byzantine-inspired High Jewellery collection during New York Fashion Week on September 15. This store reflects Sabyasachi's vision of luxury retail as a cultural experience.

Indian woman praises US emergency response after swimmer rescued within minutes

An Indian woman in the US, Sonal Chaudhary, praised the swift coordination of emergency services after witnessing a swimmer rescued within minutes at Hammonasset Beach, highlighting the quick arrival of lifeguards, police, and paramedics. She expressed admiration for America's emphasis on public safety and noted that such efficient responses are common. The incident underscored the importance of life preservation.

Kareena Kapoor's latest video sparks pregnancy buzz; Here's the truth

Kareena Kapoor Khan revealed in a recent interview that she advised husband Saif Ali Khan not to have more children, emphasizing that Saif has already had a child in every decade of his life. Rumors about her possible pregnancy sparked online when she was spotted with a team member blocking the view, but her representatives confirmed she's not expecting. The couple recently celebrated Saif’s 56th birthday on a family vacation.

I wanted to halt and reflect on my career: Aastha Gill

Aastha Gill has released her new independent track "Fursat," marking her return after an eight-month hiatus for self-reflection and growth as an artist. While she acknowledges being stereotyped as a party anthem singer, she enjoys that aspect of her career. Gill humorously revealed she was unaware of her collaborator Badshah's recent marriage, emphasizing the importance of personal choices in her artistic journey.

Actor-singer Rahul Deshpande on shifting focus to music: Melody comes from life

Singer-actor Rahul Deshpande shifts focus primarily to music after completing his India tour, preparing for a classical tour in Maharashtra and an international festival in the US. He celebrates the growing interest in regional classical music, especially among youth. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, he shares his daughter Renuka's support and hints at upcoming projects, including a ghazal album.

Lokesh Kanagaraj's debut film DC grosses ₹100 crore worldwide in 2 weeks

Filmmaker Arun Matheswaran's adaptation of **Devdas**, titled **DC**, released on August 7, has garnered critical acclaim and grossed over **Rs 100 crore** worldwide within two weeks. The film stars **Lokesh Kanagaraj**, who makes his acting debut, and shifts the classic story to a gritty gangster setting. With its compelling narrative and performances, **DC** ranks among the highest-grossing Tamil films of the year.

CWG 2026 Gold-Winner, judoka Asmita Dey: I can never forget what UP did for me

Judoka Asmita Dey, fresh off her gold medal in the 48kg category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, is targeting the Lausanne Judo Grand Slam later this month. While navigating her role as a UP Police sub-inspector and promotion process, she expresses gratitude for state support, aiming to inspire future athletes by opening training centers nationwide after achieving her long-term goals.

Parul Gulati says her eviction in The Traitors Season 2 was ‘unfair’ | Exclusive

Kullu defended Parul Gulati's gameplay, asserting that she, along with Abhishek Malhan and Ranveer Brar, utilized strategy unlike other contestants. Parul expressed disappointment over her eviction from the Karan Johar-hosted show, labeling it unfair despite her innocence. As the season progresses with Kullu's impending eviction, only two traitors remain. The show airs new episodes Thursdays on Amazon Prime Video.

Trump Talks to Michael Cohen, His Fixer-Turned-Enemy

Michael Cohen, once Donald Trump’s loyal lawyer, has shifted from critic to collaborator, inviting Trump onto his radio show despite their tumultuous history. Following a plea deal in 2018 that turned him into a key witness against Trump, Cohen has now expressed a desire for reconciliation, marking their first public conversation in nearly five years. Cohen's past includes serving prison time and supporting Trump’s opponents.

Elon Musk pitches Starlink for rural India amidst stalled launch

Starlink aims to provide satellite internet in India, targeting rural areas where connectivity is lagging. Despite awaiting regulatory approval for commercial operations, Elon Musk emphasized its potential as a public service. The initiative comes amid stagnant growth in rural telecom, with only 0.11% increase in mobile subscriptions and poor fiber connectivity, highlighting the urgent need for solutions like Starlink.

Meat: An excerpt from new book by alternative-proteins activist Bruce Friedrich

The article discusses the limitations of human imagination, asserting that doubt often stems from untested possibilities, particularly in food innovation such as plant-based and cultivated meat. Historical examples illustrate how many now-ordinary technologies were once dismissed as impossible. It urges readers to reconsider their skepticism about advancements in meat alternatives and embrace the potential for change as science progresses.

Politicians Who Once Championed Data Centers Are Now Bashing Them

In November, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott declared Texas the "epicenter of AI development" with a $40 billion Google investment. Now, he has paused 1,800 new data center approvals over resource concerns, sparking backlash; President Trump defended them as economic drivers. The growing voter opposition poses risks for both parties amid the 2024 elections, highlighting increasing scrutiny on AI development regulations.

The Brains Who Powered China’s Surprising AI Leap

Chinese AI startups are rapidly advancing despite funding and chip access limitations compared to U.S. counterparts, with Tang’s Z.AI and Yang’s Moonshot emerging as significant players. Both companies utilize innovative techniques, but still trail behind U.S. titans like Anthropic. China’s government supports AI growth through investment and policy, fueling competition in the global AI landscape.

Gold price today: Check 22K, 24K rates in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Mumbai

Gold prices in India remained high, with Delhi recording ₹1,85,303 for 24-karat gold, followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru at ₹1,85,130. Silver prices were consistent at ₹2,60,000 per kg, except in Chennai, where it reached ₹2,65,000. Futures prices rose due to increased demand. These trends are influenced by global market tensions and sanctions against Iran.

‘Doing good work wasn’t enough’: Woman says corporate life rewards extroverts

A woman’s insights on corporate culture highlight that introverts often feel pressured to change their personalities to succeed, as visibility and networking are prioritized over job performance. Many resonate with her comments online, sharing exhausting experiences of being judged for their quietness. Ultimately, she advises introverts, “You are not the problem,” underscoring the extrovert-centric corporate environment.

Bhavnagar spurious liquor tragedy: 61 affected; 25 still in hospital; 10 critical

In Gujarat's Bhavnagar district, 61 individuals have been affected by spurious liquor consumption, leading to eight confirmed deaths and 10 critically ill patients. Thirteen of 21 suspects linked to the hooch tragedy have been arrested, with the investigation focusing on toxic methanol-laced liquor. Gujarat, a dry state, has seen illicit sales, prompting police action and legal proceedings.

Lee Soo-hyuk’s exit sends shock wave among K-drama fans

Korean actor and model Lee Soo-hyuk has withdrawn from the Men of the Harem series due to scheduling conflicts, as confirmed by his agency, Saram Entertainment. His exit sparked online chatter among fans eagerly anticipating his role. Directed by Lee Eung-bok, the series is based on a novel depicting political intrigue among royal consorts. Lee Jong-won may be his replacement.

A deep dive into offbeat Northeast

**"Voices of the Land" Elevates Northeast Experiences**: A new documentary series on JioHotstar, "Voices of the Land," showcases the rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Northeast India through actor Gaurav Adarsh. Directed by Megha Ramaswamy, it explores indigenous wisdom and their ecological ties, emphasizing a shift from traditional narratives toward a celebration of living cultures amidst environmental change. The series highlights the unique philosophies of various tribes and aims to foster deeper connections with their traditions and environments.

Is Kareena Kapoor Khan expecting baby number 3? Fans wonder as video goes viral

Kareena Kapoor Khan sparks pregnancy rumors after a viral video appears to show her with a baby bump while walking in gym attire. Though she has not confirmed or denied the reports, fans have flooded social media with speculation. This isn’t the first time such rumors have circulated, as Kareena denied similar claims in 2022.

SC seeks govt, CBSE’s response on permanent mechanism to address OSM glitches

The Supreme Court is seeking responses from the government and CBSE regarding a permanent solution for on-screen marking (OSM) glitches, following issues raised by a one-member inquiry committee. While 168,000 students benefited from a revaluation window, concerns about its sufficiency persist, given nearly 300,000 students sat for compartment exams. Background includes swift contract awarding for OSM just before the exams.

Nancy Guthrie: Alex James Barnett sparks ‘Porch Guy’ buzz amid arrest warrant

Pima County Sheriff's Department has issued an arrest warrant for 33-year-old Alex James Barnett concerning the murder of Carlos Ramirez, identifying him as one of three suspects. As Barnett's images circulate, comparisons arise to the ‘Porch Guy’ in the unsolved kidnapping case of Nancy Guthrie. Guthrie has been missing since February, without leads on her whereabouts.

Woman, 1.5-month-old son found dead in Haryana, in-laws booked over SUV demand

In Haryana's Palwal district, police booked 11 individuals, including husband Sohil Khan, after 25-year-old Sagufta and her infant son were allegedly strangled. Family claims dowry harassment led to the murders, with demands for an SUV surfacing post-birth. The mother and child were found dead, prompting demands for thorough investigation and accountability from Sagufta's family.

Chakra Horoscope Today, August 21, 2026

Today's horoscopes emphasize various chakras and self-reflection for each sign. For example, Aries focuses on balancing the Solar Plexus Chakra, encouraging meaningful work versus constant busyness, while Taurus explores the Third Eye Chakra, promoting curiosity in uncertainty. Each sign's guidance includes chakra practices and supportive crystals like Citrine for Aries and Labradorite for Taurus, fostering personal growth and insight.