Woman dies while learning to drive as new car plunges into pond near Kolkata

A 42-year-old woman, Sumitra Das, tragically drowned after her car plunged into a pond in Keshtopur, Kolkata, while learning to drive. She was preparing for her driving test. Despite locals’ attempts to rescue her, she could not be saved, and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Sumitra was practicing after dropping her daughter off nearby.

Fly menace grips 15 Hardoi villages; weeks of protests trigger FIRs

Residents in Hardoi's Atrauli area are protesting against a poultry farm, alleging that its waste has caused a severe fly infestation that threatens public health. Two FIRs were filed against protesters asserting the nuisance. District officials have inspected the farm, ordered improvements, and initiated a sanitation drive amid concerns over potential infectious disease outbreaks affecting 25 villages.

Design flaws or drainage system behind Lucknow-Kanpur E-way failures? IIT team’s report to reveal

The IIT Kharagpur team’s final report on the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway, anticipated within a week, suggests flaws in design and drainage could be causing recurrent failures, not just construction issues. Preliminary assessments highlight water seepage and inadequate drainage as key factors. Built at ₹4,200 crore, the expressway's recurring damage raises concerns over systemic design problems.

What our histories owe to the food that we eat

Benjamin Lewis Rice, an important 19th-century historian and administrator of Mysore, is celebrated for documenting the region's agricultural heritage. His observations from the 1897 Mysore Gazetteer reveal a significant shift from wet rice to ragi cultivation due to administrative reforms. Earlier texts, such as the Manasollasa, highlight the rich culinary traditions of Karnataka, emphasizing local ingredients and cooking methods.

Quote of the day by Sai Pallavi: ‘You need to be confident about who you are'

Sai Pallavi has long stood out in the film industry for her natural approach to beauty and her decision to embrace her appearance without conforming to conventional standards. Known for often appearing with minimal or no makeup, the actor has spoken openly about her own insecurities and the pressure surrounding appearance.

IIT-Kanpur has no SC/ST faculty member at prof level: RTI info

IIT Kanpur has no Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) professors, according to an RTI response revealing 39.3% of faculty positions vacant. Of 257 professors, 254 are from unreserved categories. IIT director cited data inaccuracies and noted ongoing recruitment efforts. Reports indicate systemic shortfalls in the implementation of reservation policies across IITs, raising concerns about equitable representation.

Who is Jomiltron Sentell Fair Jr.? Gaffney High School student dies in shooting

Jomiltron Sentell Fair Jr., a 17-year-old Gaffney High School student, was fatally shot at a school bus stop in Gaffney, South Carolina, just two days after the school year began. Witnessed by 15 students, the incident prompted increased police patrols and an ongoing investigation into the suspect's identity. Fair’s death is mourned by the community and family.

No tolerance towards digital offences: Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has mandated a zero-tolerance stance on political crimes and digital offenses, emphasizing stricter policing in a video conference with over 1,650 officers. He called for effective use of technology in crime prevention while condemning public safety risks linked to political rallies. Naidu also highlighted the need for a drug-free society and urged police to combat crimes against women.

Worried exercise will wear out knees? Neurologist reveals how to protect them

Dr. Sudhir Kumar emphasizes that strength training and maintaining a healthy weight are key to protecting knee health, countering myths about exercise and osteoarthritis (OA). He advocates for consistent low-impact activities and warns against unnecessary supplementation of calcium and vitamin D. His insights come from over 26 years of medical experience. Regular movement is vital for joint function.

YSRCP’s assembly boycott to continue in monsoon session

The Telugu Desam Party, Jana Sena Party, and BJP urged members to avoid YSR Congress's alleged tactics that provoke infighting through fake social media accounts. The coalition emphasized unity and cautioned against responding to misleading posts. They called for joint efforts to highlight government initiatives and warned of action against personal attacks, promoting a cohesive alliance approach.

Role of secure digital identity

India's Digital India programme, completed in 11 years, has transformed banking, governance, and public services online, now boasting over one billion internet users. However, this rapid digital expansion has increased cyber threats. To combat these risks, 1,298 banks have adopted bank.in, enhancing digital trust through verified identities. A secure digital ecosystem is vital for India’s continued growth and security.

Haryana: HC orders CBI probe on illegal mining petition

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has mandated a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into an illegal mining case, revealing the petitioner, Ashok, was unaware of the petition's filing. The court discovered misrepresentation and possible forgery, concluding a cognizable offense may have occurred. Initially filed on March 27, the case raised concerns over unauthorized legal actions.

Rights panel seeks ‘State CSR Authority’ in Punjab

The Punjab State and Chandigarh Human Rights Commission has urged the Punjab government to establish a formal "State CSR Authority" to better allocate corporate social responsibility funds for welfare and disaster relief, especially after last year's floods. The commission emphasized the importance of awareness for local CSR needs and suggested a dedicated mechanism similar to those in Gujarat and Assam for effective utilization of these resources.

One killed, 38 injured as bus carrying kanwariyas overturns in Lakhimpur Kheri

A 50-year-old Kanwariya was killed and 38 others injured when a double-decker bus overturned on National Highway-30 in Lakhimpur Kheri. The pilgrims from Bihar were returning from Haridwar to Ayodhya when the driver reportedly dozed off. Eight were seriously injured and referred to Shahjahanpur, while local residents and a rescue team rushed to assist. Police are investigating the cause.

Jeremy Strong contacted Zuckerberg before portraying him in The Social Reckoning

Actor Jeremy Strong, who replaces Jesse Eisenberg as Mark Zuckerberg in *The Social Reckoning*, reached out to Zuckerberg for insights before filming. In an interview, Strong emphasized the responsibility of portraying the controversial figure respectfully. Set for release on October 9, the film examines Zuckerberg's actions during the late 2010s and 2020 amidst scrutiny of Facebook.

Tamil Nadu passes resolution against delimitation

The Tamil Nadu assembly has passed a resolution urging the Union government to freeze Lok Sabha seats at 543 and ensure 33% women’s reservation in legislative bodies. This comes amid concerns over a proposed constitutional amendment bill that may impact southern states’ representation. Supported by the DMK and Left parties, the resolution faced opposition from BJP and AIADMK members.

Can homebuyers claim interest for delay after taking possession?

The Bombay High Court ruled that homebuyers can claim interest from developers for delayed possession, even if they accept possession without prior notice of compensation intent. The court emphasized this interest is an "independent and indefeasible right" under RERA. This decision stemmed from a dispute over delayed housing in Mumbai's Patra Chawl redevelopment project, highlighting systemic issues in urban development.

Govt in LS: Punjab deleted nearly 2.9 lakh ration cards under NFSA in 5 yrs

Punjab has deleted 2,89,334 ration cards under the National Food Security Act from 2021 to 2025, peaking at 1,52,497 in 2022. Currently, Punjab has 1.52 crore beneficiaries and 40,47,613 active ration cards. Concerns arise over digital authentication issues potentially impacting food access, prompting the government to assure measures for beneficiaries amid ongoing evaluations of the food security program.

Rohtak: SKM (non-political) to march to Jantar Mantar from August 16

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) announced a 228-km “Kisan Bachao Padyatra” from Haryana to New Delhi, starting August 16 and culminating on August 29 with a farmers’ panchayat. The peaceful march, led by 51 permanent farmers, opposes the India-US trade deal and demands legal crop procurement guarantees at MSP. The route highlights crucial agricultural areas and honors farmer Shubham's memory.

YSRCP’s assembly boycott to continue in monsoon session

The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) announced it will continue boycotting the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly due to the government’s refusal to recognize it as the opposition. Party leader Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy plans to address public concerns, including educational irregularities and farmer issues. The Assembly Speaker criticized the boycott, questioning salary payments for absent MLAs and suggesting legislative reforms to address attendance.

Defence ministry floats ₹1 lakh-crore tender to buy medium transport aircraft

The Indian Defence Ministry has issued a ₹1 lakh crore tender for up to 60 medium transport aircraft (MTA) to enhance the Indian Air Force's airlift capabilities, sending requests to five Indian companies. This initiative supports the Make in India policy, aiming for self-reliance, while India plans additional defense contracts, including 114 Rafale jets, in the coming financial years.

India’s biopharma edge will be built on talent readiness

India's biopharmaceutical innovation is evolving rapidly, fueled by advanced therapies and AI-driven technologies, with its bioeconomy projected to reach $300 billion by 2030. A significant skills gap exists, requiring graduates to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application in regulated environments. Initiatives like the Biopharma SHAKTI aim to enhance workforce readiness, ensuring India remains competitive in global health innovation.

HC commutes death sentence to 50-year jail in rape of 7-year-old girl in Kaithal

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has commuted a death sentence to 50 years for Pawan alias Moni, convicted of the 2022 rape and murder of a 7-year-old girl in Kaithal. The court emphasized the challenge of protecting children from perpetrators post-release and ordered fines totaling ₹73 lakh to benefit the victim’s family, with sentences running concurrently.

Police constable found dead in ACP office, kin suspect foul play

A 26-year-old police constable was found dead in the restroom of the LB Nagar police station in Hyderabad, with initial findings suggesting suicide, though his family suspects foul play. Found hanging around 2:30 a.m., he was declared dead at Kamineni Hospital. Family protests ensued, questioning circumstances of his death and demanding justice. Investigations are ongoing.

Haryana: Khap leaders threaten protest over delay in arrest of accused

Members of a mahapanchayat in Haryana plan protests at all toll plazas on August 14 if police fail to arrest all accused in the murder of dairy operator Jeevan Kundu. He was beaten to death on August 4 by a mob. Police have arrested three suspects and issued rewards for further arrests, while accusations of political interference arise.

Police constable found dead in ACP office, kin suspect foul play

A speeding tanker collided with an autorickshaw in Telangana's Sangareddy district, killing six agricultural laborers and critically injuring six others. The accident occurred on the Hyderabad-Mumbai highway when the autorickshaw, carrying 11 women returning from work, made a U-turn. Police are investigating the incident, following a series of recent road accidents in the area.

₹10,000 penalty for delay in ambulances, NHAI tweaks norms

The National Highway Authority of India has mandated ambulances reach crash sites within 10 minutes of incidents near toll booths, imposing ₹10,000 penalties for delays. Additional conditions include a one-hour limit for victim transport, GPS monitoring, and stricter compliance standards. The move aims to enhance response efficiency and survival rates post-accidents, as highlighted by expert opinions on improving ambulance operations.

CIA nabs mastermind behind Charkhi Dadri shooting that hurt seven people

The Charkhi Dadri police arrested Amardeep alias Pankaj, the alleged key conspirator behind the August 6 firing that injured seven individuals outside the local police station. Following an encounter where he sustained gunshot wounds, police recovered a Turkish-made pistol and several rounds of ammunition. Amardeep, linked to the Sahuwas gang, faces 21 criminal charges. The incident stems from a rivalry with the Pradeep Kasni gang, and investigations are ongoing.

Haryana’s wheat MSP beneficiaries doubled to 6 lakh in 5 years

The number of wheat farmers in Haryana selling at the minimum support price (MSP) nearly doubled to 6 lakh in five years, making it the third-largest beneficiary state in India. MSP payments surged from ₹8,434 crore in 2022-23 to ₹20,992 crore in 2026-27, attributed to mandatory e-kharid portal registration, enhancing transparency and accountability.

Ruckus in Parliament over attire: John Brittas and Sushmita Dev trade barbs

A ruckus erupted in the Rajya Sabha as Communist MP John Brittas accused BJP's Sushmita Dev of making derogatory remarks about his attire, a Mundu. Dev denied the allegations, asserting she did not disrespect any culture. Brittas filed a privilege motion, emphasizing respect for regional identities. The House was adjourned amid rising tensions over cultural comments.