Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah Clear Fitness Test Ahead Of Asia Cup: Report

Indian cricketers, including Test skipper Shubman Gill and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, have cleared the pre-season fitness test which was conducted at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Gill will travel to Dubai soon for the Asia Cup, starting on September 9, and his teammates Jasprit Bumrah and Jitesh Sharma too have passed the fitness parameters. The 25-year-old Punjab batter was named India's vice-captain for the T20 tournament. A fitness test became mandatory for Gill as he had to pull out of the Duleep Trophy, where he was named the North Zone captain, because of a fever, and was resting at his home town for the last few days.

PTI understands that other players who went through the test at the CoE without any alarm were Mohammed Siraj, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur.

Apart from the now standard Yo-Yo test, a DXA Scan, which is a simplified method to test bone density, was also done during the fitness test.

Both Jaiswal and Washington are in the standby list for the continental showpiece, while Thakur will remain in the city to lead the West Zone in the Duleep Trophy semifinal against Central Zone from September 4.

While Rohit does not have any immediate assignments after his retirement from Test and T20 formats, the senior batter could travel to Australia for an ODI series in November, and prior to that he may also appear for India A against Australia A in three one-day matches at Kanpur on September 30, October 3 and 5.

The confirmation for that is yet to come but Rohit is likely to stay back in the city for a few more days to train at the CoE.

Other members of the Asia Cup squad such as Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav and Riyan Parag (standby) have played in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinals for their respective Zonal teams, and there could not be a separate fitness test for them now.

Wicketkeeper batter Dhruv Jurel, who is also among the standby players, had to skip the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal because of a groin niggle.

But the Central Zone skipper, who was replaced at the helm by Rajat Patidar against NorthEast Zone, is still under monitoring of the medical team.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Israel Kills Hamas Spokesperson Amid Expanding Gaza Offensive Discussion

The Israeli military announced Sunday that it killed the longtime spokesperson for Hamas' armed wing, as the country's security cabinet met to discuss the expanding offensive in some of Gaza's most populated areas.

There were no plans to discuss negotiations for a ceasefire at the meeting, according to an official who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak with the media.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz identified the spokesperson as Abu Obeida, the nom de guerre for the official who represented Hamas's Qassam Brigades. He was killed over the weekend. Hamas has not commented on the claim.

Abu Obeida's last statement was issued on Friday as Israel began the initial stages of the new offensive and declared Gaza City a combat zone. His statement said the militants would do their best to protect living hostages but warned that they would be in areas of fighting. He said the remains of dead hostages would "disappear forever."

Israel's military said the spokesperson, whom it identified as Hudahaifa Kahlout, had been behind the release of videos showing hostages as well as footage of the Hamas-led attack that sparked the war. The military also reiterated a threat against remaining Hamas leaders abroad.

Israel has killed many of Hamas' military and political leaders as it attempts to dismantle the group and prevent an attack like the one on Oct. 7, 2023, when militants abducted 251 people and killed around 1,200, mostly civilians, in southern Israel.

At least 43 Palestinians have been killed since Saturday, most of them in Gaza City, according to local hospitals. Shifa Hospital, the territory's largest, said 29 bodies were brought to its morgue, including 10 people killed while seeking aid and others struck across the city.

"Where are the resistance fighters that (Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu claims he is bombing? Does he consider stone resistance fighters?" said a relative of one of the dead at Shifa Hospital, who did not give her name. She said they would not be displaced.

Hospital officials reported 11 other fatalities from strikes and gunfire. Al-Awda Hospital said seven of them were civilians trying to reach aid.

Witnesses said Israeli troops opened fire on crowds in the Netzarim Corridor, an Israeli military zone that bisects Gaza.

"We were trying to get food, but we were met with the occupation's bullets," said Ragheb Abu Lebda, who saw at least three people bleeding from gunshot wounds. "It's a death trap."

The corridor has become increasingly perilous. Civilians have been killed as United Nations humanitarian convoys are overwhelmed by looters and desperate crowds, or shot on their way to sites run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an Israeli-backed U.S. contractor.

The GHF told The Associated Press that there was "no incident at or near our site today." Israel's military did not respond to questions about Sunday's casualties.

Israel, for weeks, has been operating on the outskirts of Gaza City and the Jabaliya refugee camp to prepare for the offensive's initial stages. The military has intensified air attacks on coastal areas of the city, including Rimal. More smoke rose over Gaza City on Sunday.

In Rimal, quiet Palestinians looked through the rubble after a strike, some venturing into the upper floors of shattered buildings that were still standing. A child tried to pull a shopping cart loaded with plastic jugs over the debris.

The military has urged the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza City to flee south, but many say they are exhausted after repeated displacements or unconvinced that any safe place in Gaza remains.

The United Nations says about 65,000 Palestinians have evacuated since Aug. 1, including 23,199 in the past week. More than 90% of the over 2 million Palestinians in Gaza have been displaced at least once during the war, many of them multiple times, according to the UN

Israel has signalled that aid to Gaza City could be cut, and it has announced new infrastructure projects in southern Gaza - steps that Palestinians say amount to forced displacement.

Seven more Palestinian adults died of malnutrition-related causes over the last 24 hours, Gaza's Health Ministry said Sunday.

That brought the adult death count from malnutrition-related causes to 215 since June, when the ministry started to count them, it said, and 124 children have died of malnutrition-related causes since the war began.

In the largest attempt yet to break the long Israeli blockade of the Palestinian territory by sea, a flotilla of ships departed Sunday from Barcelona for Gaza with humanitarian aid and activists on board. Similar attempts in the past have failed.

At least 63,371 Palestinians have died during the war, said the ministry, which does not say how many were fighters or civilians, but that around half have been women and children.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals. The UN and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties. Israel disputes the figures but has not provided its own.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Best Mobiles Under Rs. 40,000 in India: From OnePlus Nord 5, Poco F7 and More

The premium segment comprises phones that offer impressive designs, good durability, and capable cameras. While the price tags are higher than those of mid-range devices, these phones typically offer good software support. However, there are times when brands take a few shortcuts to get there. Here’s what you need to know if you're looking for a mobile under Rs. 40,000.

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UK Nurse Wins Rs 30 Lakh After Co-Worker's Eye-Rolling Sparks Panic Attacks

A dental nurse who faced constant eye-rolling and belittling from a colleague has been awarded over 25,254 pounds (Rs 30 lakh) in a groundbreaking employment tribunal, according to The Times. The decision establishes that non-verbal actions like eye-rolling can count as workplace bullying, making employers responsible if staff use such behaviour against others. This case shows how small actions can create a toxic work atmosphere and result in significant legal consequences.

According to The Times, Maureen Howieson, 64, a dental nurse with more than 40 years of experience, was awarded the compensation after an Edinburgh tribunal concluded she was a victim of "rude, isolating, bullying and belittling" behaviour at the Great Junction Dental Practice in Edinburgh.

The tribunal heard that Howieson's relationship with a new dental therapist, Jisna Iqbal, became "strained" shortly after Iqbal was hired following the practice's acquisition in July 2024.

Iqbal, who was a qualified dentist in India but not yet eligible to practise in the UK, began taking over Howieson's receptionist duties, a role she had held for years.

According to The Metro, Maureen Howieson accused Mrs Iqbal of being 'rude and disrespectful' when they worked together.

She also claimed her colleague repeatedly ignored her and rolled her eyes if she spoke.

Mrs Iqbal rejected the claims, but the panel accepted the other woman's version of events.'

The situation escalated further in September 2024 when Ms Howieson was brought to tears at work, prompting her to have a meeting with the clinic owner, Dr Fary Johnson Vithayathil.

She had told a colleague she had been 'reduced to being a cleaner'.

The following day, Mrs Iqbal allegedly refused to leave the reception when Ms Howieson was meant to start her afternoon shift.

She was told that Dr Vithayathil's wife, the business manager, would speak with Mrs Iqbal, which didn't happen.

Ms Howieson ended up having a panic attack due to stress.

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SpaceX Starship Aces 10th Flight, Takes Major Step Toward Reusability

SpaceX’s Starship rocket has scored a landmark success on its 10th test flight. On Aug. 26, 2025, the 400-foot booster launched flawlessly, completed hot-stage separation, and deployed eight dummy Starlink satellites — its first-ever payload. The upper stage then re-entered Earth’s atmosphere, surviving long enough to reignite an engine and splash down in the Indian Ocean, despite shedding some debris.

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New ‘Gambling Carnot Engine’ Challenges 200-Year-Old Thermodynamic Law

Almost 200 years after the Carnot limit defined the maximum efficiency of heat engines, scientists have introduced a microscopic design that seems to break the rule. Called the “Gambling Carnot Engine,” it works by monitoring a single trapped particle and stepping in at just the right instant. This clever feedback process allows the engine to convert nearly all absorbed heat into usable work.

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China Unveils ‘Darwin Monkey’, World’s Largest Neuromorphic Supercomputer

China has unveiled Darwin Monkey, the world’s largest neuromorphic supercomputer. With over 2 billion artificial neurons and 100 billion synapses, it mirrors a macaque brain’s complexity. Designed by Zhejiang University and Zhejiang Lab, the system could accelerate neuroscience simulations and advance artificial general intelligence while consuming only 2,000 watts of power.

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"Why Did This Cat Become 4?" 5 Classes In 1 Room Leave Students Puzzled

In one corner, a teacher helps students learn the English alphabet - A for Apple, B for Ball, C for Cat - in another, some are taught the Hindi alphabet, and, in yet another, a blackboard reads "2+2 = 4". In the cramped classroom, a student pipes up, puzzled, "Sir, why did this cat become four?"

This scene, which seems straight out of a satirical show on the education system and infrastructure, is an unfortunate reality in the Uchehra block of Madhya Pradesh's Satna, where the Dudha Primary School has redefined what a classroom can be. After a building collapsed, 95 children from five different grades were crammed into a single hall, with five different blackboards and five different subjects being taught, sometimes simultaneously.

This leaves the students searching for education in the cacophony.

Teacher Lavkush Kori explained the reality: "Without classrooms, the only option was to combine classes. Boards were needed and festivals reduced attendance, and when all the children came together, the real challenge was not teaching, but ensuring the students were protected from the rain."

Sometimes classes were held under a tree, and then children had to be rushed indoors to avoid the weather. One student summed up the struggle succinctly: "It is very difficult to study. Voices come from everywhere. Sometimes we understand, sometimes we don't. There is too much noise."

Dudha is not an isolated case. More than 70 schools in Satna are battling similar conditions. Files are shuffled between government departments, like batons in a relay race without end, while children are left waiting for classrooms that are never built. Pushpraj Sharma, the headmaster of one such school, said the building had been demolished two years ago and many letters had been written, but no action followed.

Approvals Pending

Sunil Saraf, Assistant Engineer at the District Education Centre in Satna, admitted that proposals had been sent and approvals were pending, and work would begin only once that happened.

Even the state capital is not spared. In a school just behind the Raj Bhavan in Bhopal, classes up to the fifth standard have been squeezed into one room for years. There is no playground and even the mid-day meal is served in the same cramped space.

In Madhya Pradesh government schools, more than one crore children were enrolled in Classes 1 to 8 in 2010-11 and the number has nearly halved to 54.58 lakh now. Hundreds of schools have seen zero admissions this year, 7,217 schools continue to operate with a single teacher and more than 5,600 either have no buildings or function in crumbling ones.

The government insists it is responding. School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh said that, under Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's leadership, plans had been prepared for maintenance and new classrooms, with proposals sent to the finance department and funds allocated. He acknowledged shortages but maintained that the government is striving to provide the best possible resources.

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Sonu Sood Sells His Luxury Apartment For Rs 8 Crore In Mumbai: Report

Sonu Sood just made a solid real-estate move in South Mumbai. The actor sold his apartment in Mahalaxmi for ₹8.10 crore, walking away with a profit of almost ₹3 crore after holding the place for more than a decade.

The property is part of Lokhandwala Minerva, one of the well-known addresses in the area. According to documents reviewed by SquareYards, the deal was registered in August 2025. The apartment comes with a carpet area of 1,247 sq. ft. and a built-up area of about 1,497 sq. ft. Two parking spots are also included.

The paperwork from the Inspector General of Registration (IGR) shows that Sonu Sood had purchased the flat back in 2012 for ₹5.16 crore. That means after 13 years, he managed to make around ₹2.94 crore in profit. The transaction also carried a stamp duty of ₹48.60 lakh and a registration fee of ₹30,000.

Mahalaxmi, where the property sits, is one of South Mumbai's prime neighbourhoods. It is well-connected to Lower Parel, Worli and Nariman Point, and is packed with luxury towers that overlook the Arabian Sea and the racecourse.

On the work front, Sonu Sood was last seen in Fateh, which also marked his directorial debut. Talking about the film, the actor had told ANI, “I truly enjoyed directing the film, and it is about the experience and satisfaction you get as a director, so of course, get ready for the second soon.”

Fateh hit the cinema screens in January this year. The project featured Sonu Sood as Fateh Singh, Jacqueline Fernandez as Khushi Sharma, Vijay Raaz as Satya Prakash and Naseeruddin Shah as Raza. Nagineedu, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Prakash Belawadi, Ravi Kishan and Shiv Jyoti Rajput were also part of the movie. Fateh is currently available for streaming on JioHotstar.

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Canada And India Name New Top Envoys As They Restore Relations

India and Canada named new high commissioners to each other's capitals Thursday as they restored relations 10 months after expelling the top envoys in a dispute over an alleged political assassination.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Christopher Cooter will be Canada's new high commissioner to India. India's foreign ministry said it will assign its current envoy to Spain, Dinesh Patnaik, to Ottawa "shortly."

Relations between Canada and India have been strained since Canadian police accused New Delhi of playing a role in the June 2023 assassination of a Canadian Sikh activist near Vancouver. Police also have uncovered evidence of an intensifying campaign against Canadian citizens by agents of the Indian government.

Relations improved in June when Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the G7 summit in Alberta and both countries agreed to restore their top diplomats.

Nijjar, 45, was fatally shot in his pickup truck after he left the Sikh temple he led in Surrey, British Columbia. An Indian-born citizen of Canada, he owned a plumbing business and was a leader in what remains of a once-strong movement to create an independent Sikh homeland.

Four Indian nationals living in Canada were charged with Niijar's murder.

Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau previously said Indian diplomats have been passing information about Canadians to the highest levels of the Indian government, and that Indian officials then shared that information with organized crime groups, resulting in violence against Canadians.

Trudeau said India violated Canada's sovereignty. India rejected the accusations as absurd.

Canada is not the only country that has accused Indian officials of plotting an assassination on foreign soil. The U.S. Justice Department announced criminal charges last year against a Indian government official in connection with an alleged foiled plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader living in New York City.

India has repeatedly criticized Canada for being soft on supporters of the Khalistan movement who live in Canada. The Khalistan movement is banned in India but has support among the Sikh diaspora, particularly in Canada. About 2% of Canada's population is Sikh.

Cooter will take on the role after 35 years as a diplomat, including postings in Israel and South Africa, as well as in New Delhi 25 years ago.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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BCCI Blasted For 'Communication Gap' During Kohli, Rohit: "With Pujara..."

In the last few months, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired from the Test format. The last week saw the retirement of Cheteshwar Pujara from Tests too. It's fair to say that the transition of Indian cricket in the longest format is here. A young team led by Shubman Gill has shown that they are ready to take on the world after drawing the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. 1983 World Cup winner Krishnamachari Srikkanth said there was a communication gap between the BCCI and the cricketers. He added that the BCCI should have spoken to Pujara to give him a better send-off.

"If you play 100 Tests for your country, you must be a terrific cricketer. So you should be given a good send-off. I am convinced there was a big communication gap when Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired. They should have spoken to them, but instead, this is not a good look for the game and Indian cricket," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel, as quoted by HT.

"Virat Kohli's retirement happened just like that. Virat Kohli deserved a better send-off. He still had two years of Test cricket left in him. But because we drew in England, such talks about him got shut off. However, India will find it difficult to get a cricketer like Virat Kohli for some time.

"Similarly with Pujara, though it's been a while since he played for India, they should have spoken to him also about his retirement plans. Of course, the player also has to cooperate and realize when their time is up. Had that happened, Pujara would have gotten a better send-off. But it's a matter of cooperation between the player, selectors, and the BCCI."

Having bid adieu to his stellar Test career as a content man, Indian Test batting great Cheteshwar Pujara wouldn't mind a coaching stint or a role at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in the next stage of his cricketing journey. Speaking to PTI days after announcing his retirement from all forms of cricket, Pujara not only gave a sneak peek into his future plans but also stressed the importance of old-school Test match batting.

He also reflected on his glorious 103-Test career, which yielded over 7,000 runs, his series-winning performances in Australia, and the contributions of his father and late mother.

"I've enjoyed the broadcasting work for sure. So, I'll definitely continue doing that. When it comes to coaching or any work at the NCA (Centre of Excellence), I'll be open to it," Pujara said.

"I haven't genuinely thought about it. Whenever there is any opportunity that arises, I'll try and take a call then...I've mentioned this earlier also that I would like to stay attached to the game.

"So, in whatever manner I can contribute to Indian cricket, I'll be more than happy to do so," he added.

The thought of retiring from the ground did not cross Pujara's mind, and he leaves the game with no regrets.

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New Analysis of 1977 Wow! Signal Reveals Stronger Cosmic Mystery

The famous 1977 “Wow!” signal — a mysterious radio burst detected by Ohio’s Big Ear telescope — has been reanalyzed using modern computing techniques. Researchers digitized old telescope records, finding the signal was about four times stronger than first thought, peaking at 250 Janskys. The recalculations also refined its frequency and sky location, ruling out man-made interference. While the true source remains uncertain, dense hydrogen clouds emitting natural maser signals are now leading candidates. Nearly 50 years later, the Wow! signal continues to puzzle astronomers worldwide.

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Denmark Apologises For Forced Birth Control Scandal In Greenland

Denmark's prime minister on Wednesday presented a long-awaited apology to the victims of Denmark's forced contraception campaign in Greenland, lifting a key point of tension with its autonomous territory.

From the 1960s until 1992, Danish authorities forced around 4,500 Inuit women, around half of those of child-bearing age, to wear a contraceptive coil -- or intrauterine device (IUD) -- without their consent.

The aim was to reduce the Inuit birth rate.

Many of the women were left sterile and almost all of them have suffered from physical or psychological problems. 

Around 150 of them have sued the Danish state for violating their rights and demanded compensation.

"We cannot change what has happened. But we can take responsibility. Therefore, on behalf of Denmark, I would like to say: I am sorry," Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said in a statement.

The victims, who have sought an official apology for several years, welcomed her remarks.

"My clients are happy, it's a big step," Mads Pramming, the lawyer representing the 150 women. 

"Now it remains to be seen if the state will recognise its legal responsibility and offer compensation. Until that is done, I won't be opening the champagne," he said.

One of the victims, Henriette Berthelsen, told AFP she was pleased.

"I'm happy but it has perhaps come belatedly," she said, adding: "It generates a lot of thoughts."

She was 13 years old when she had a coil inserted for the first time, without her or her family's consent.

The scandal came to light when one of the victims spoke out in the media several years ago about the trauma she experienced. 

A podcast series by Danish public broadcaster DR in 2022 then revealed the full extent of the campaign.

'Like a rape'

Naja Lyberth was the first woman to come forward and publicly describe what happened to her.

She was around 13 or 14 when she and the other girls in her class were sent to the doctor's office.

"His tool penetrated me to insert the coil. It was very cold and felt like a knife stabbing my insides. It was very violent," she recalled.

"I could clearly see that the tools looked much too big for my little girl's body, but at the time I didn't realise they were for adult women."

"It was like torture, like a rape," she said.

The scandal is one of several sensitive dossiers tainting Denmark's ties to its autonomous territory, including forced adoptions and the forced removal of Greenlandic Inuit children from their families.

"We know that there are also other dark chapters that deal with systematic discrimination against Greenlanders. Just because they were Greenlanders," Frederiksen said.

"My apology on behalf of Denmark is also an apology for these other failures for which Denmark is responsible, where Greenlanders have been systematically treated differently and worse than other citizens of the kingdom."

Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953, and did not gain home rule until 1979.

The practice of forced contraceptions continued on a smaller scale after 1992, when Greenland took over responsibility for its health system.

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also apologised in the same statement for the cases that happened under Greenland's control.

"I apologise to those of you who have been exposed to -- and lived with the consequences of -- interventions you did not ask for nor had control over," he said.

The apologies came the same day that Danish public television DR reported that US officials close to President Donald Trump have been observed in Greenland trying to gather information on sensitive topics which could be used to present Denmark in a bad light.

Trump has repeatedly said he wants to take over Greenland for security reasons, and has refused to rule out the use of force to secure the strategically located, resource-rich island.

Denmark's foreign ministry has summoned the US charge d'affaires for talks over what it said was "interference" in its affairs.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Boy, Diagnosed With Typhoid, Prescribed Drugs To Treat Diabetes, Heart Issue

A ten-year-old boy, who was diagnosed with typhoid and pneumonia, was prescribed medicines used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and heart-related chest pain (angina) in Maharashtra's Kalyan, close to Mumbai.

The negligence of the doctors has been reported from Manomi Multi Speciality Hospital in Kalyan's Aadharwadi Chowk.

The child was going to the hospital for treatment for three days when a doctor prescribed him these medicines. On one page, medicines usually prescribed for typhoid treatment were written, while on another, medicines which had no connection with the treatment of the disease were written.

He was prescribed Sitagliptin Phosphate and Metformin Hydrochloride tablets - used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and St Sprin 75 - used to treat and prevent heart attacks, strokes and heart-related chest pain.

His mother, Ankita Ravi Gaikwad, said that she went to the doctor to ask if the medicines were correct. "The doctor told us that the medicines were correct," she said.

The family got to know the purpose of these medicines when they took the boy to another doctor to get an injection.

"There we got to know that he was given these medicines for (treating) diabetes and other medicines," the mother had said.

The hospital administration has also confirmed the incident and said that the wrong medicine was indeed given to the child. They have also said that as soon as they realised the mistake, the child's family was informed not to give the medicine.

A doctor at the hospital said that Dr Rusha, who had the boy's case, was handling another patient as well and mistakenly mixed up the prescriptions.

"She didn't see what mistake she had made, and she told the boy to take the medicine," said Dr Sunny Singh.

"As soon as I came to the office in the morning. I inquired about the condition of the patients," he said, adding, as soon as he got to know about the mix-up, he informed the 10-year-old's family.

"I told him that he shouldn't take those medicines. I asked him to take the injection. I told him that the medicine was wrong and he should take the injection.

The boy's family has said that they would file a case against the hospital.

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Apple 'Awe Dropping' Launch Event Set for September 9; iPhone 17 Series, Apple Watch Series 11, AirPods Pro 3 Expected

Apple's Awe Dropping hardware launch event will be held on September 9. The company is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series, including a new iPhone 17 Air model. These new phones are expected to be released a few days after the event. The Apple Watch Series 11 and AirPods Pro 3 may also be announced at the same event.

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"Shocking To See...": Sanju Samson On Playing In Kerala Cricket League

Named in India's Asia Cup 2025 squad, Sanju Samson has started his preparations in full swing. The wicket-keeper batter decided to join the Kochi franchise in the Kerala Cricket League, a state-level T20 tournament, to claim top form ahead of the start of the Asia Cup next month. Samson scored a match-winning 121 off just 51 balls to help his team win the thrilling contest. After the match, Samson opened up on his stint for Kochi in the state league, saying he was shocked to see the sort of talent that exists in Kerala.

It was a nail-biting contest between Kochi and Kollam, which saw Samson's team emerge triumphant after batter Muhammad Ashik scored a last-ball six.

"It's not easy to lose a game in front of your home crowd. So I thank all the people who turned up in huge numbers," Samson said after the game.

Sanju Samson turning pressure into PLEASURE since forever #KCL2025 pic.twitter.com/YOvBLdFrB8

— FanCode (@FanCode) August 24, 2025

The wicket-keeper batter also had no qualms in admitting that he doesn't know much about his teammates but is getting to understand them better as he spends time with the them in the dressing room and on the pitch.

"To be very honest, I'm not much aware of the boys. But as much as I'm spending time with them, I'm getting very excited. Very exciting talent in the team. It's a bit shocking to see we have so much talent in Kerala cricket. I request that we have to put in some special eyes in the local games going on, especially all the players. In the next one or two years, we should see one more guy playing for the country. And I can see that happening. With this talent, I don't think that we are much far away," said Samson.

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Researcher Photographs Giant Solar Tornado and Massive Plasma Eruption at the Same Time

On August 20, researcher Maximilian Teodorescu captured a rare photo of two dramatic solar events — a giant tornado of plasma rising 130,000 km and an eruptive prominence spanning 200,000 km. Both were shaped by the sun’s unstable magnetic fields. While the prominence did release a CME, it is not aimed at Earth.

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"I'm Tired": Hera Pheri Director Priyadarshan To Retire After 100th Film

Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan is hinting at the final chapter of his celebrated career. The director, who is currently in Kochi shooting his big-budget Hindi film Haiwaan, revealed that he plans to retire from the industry after completing his 100th film. He also confirmed that Malayalam superstar Mohanlal will make a special cameo appearance in Haiwaan.

What's Happening

• Haiwaan brings together Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar in the lead roles, with Shriya Pilgaonkar and Saiyami Kher also playing important characters.
• The movie draws its core from Priyadarshan's 2016 Malayalam thriller Oppam. Bankrolled by KVN Productions and Thespian Films, the project is being mounted on a grand scale.
• In a conversation with OnManorama from the Panampilly Nagar set, Priyadarshan shared that Mohanlal will be seen in a surprise role in Haiwaan. "His character will definitely be a surprise for the audience," he said.
• The filmmaker added that his next directorial will once again feature the veteran Malayalam star, and this time in the lead, as it will mark his 100th film. He hinted at beginning work on the milestone project next year.
• On the subject of sequels, Priyadarshan shared that he rarely revisits his earlier works. However, he confirmed that he will direct Hera Pheri 3 after persistent requests from producers.
• "I don't usually revisit my original films with sequels - it's not my preferred style of working. But I will definitely make Hera Pheri 3, as the producers have been requesting it for a long time," he said.
• "Once I complete these films, I hope to retire. I'm getting tired," he added with a smile.

Background

Priyadarshan and Mohanlal worked together in Thiranottam (1978), where he played the protagonist and the former assisted director V. Ashok Kumar. Though the film was only released in 2005, it marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership. Their official collaboration as director and actor began with Poochakkoru Mookkuthi in 1984.

The ongoing Kochi schedule of Haiwaan has also stirred nostalgia. Priyadarshan pointed out that a major sequence is being shot at the same location where a key scene from Oppam was filmed nine years ago. After wrapping Kochi, the team will head to Vagamon, Ooty, and Mumbai for the remaining schedules. 

ALSO READ: Priyadarshan Reacts To Hera Pheri 3 Controversy: "There Was A Difference Of Opinion Which Has Been Sorted"

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2-Km Crater Forms In Rajasthan Village As Dam Overflows Due To Heavy Rain

A 2-km ditch has formed at a village in Rajasthan's Sawai Madhopur village after the Surwal dam overflowed. The water flowed over fields and the Jadawata village bore the brunt of the destruction. A ditch 2 km long, 100 feet wide and 55 feet deep has formed near the village. 

Experts said if the rain continues, the situation may worsen. 

The ditch stands over acres of farm land. Two houses, two shops and two temples collapsed as the water from across the fields flowed into the ditch, forming a waterfall of sorts. 

The army and relief forces have been stationed in the area and nearby houses have been evacuated. The administration is constantly monitoring the situation. 

On receiving information about the ditch, local MLA and minister Karodi Lal Meena visited the affected area. He instructed the officials to divert water with the help of machines.

The villagers, though, say it is now almost impossible to stop the soil erosion. 

Heavy rains have created havoc across vast stretches of Rajasthan. 
Many villages have been completely submerged and others have been completely cut off.

The maximum impact is being seen in Kota, Bundi, Sawai Madhopur and Jhalawar. More than 400 kutcha and pucca houses have collapsed in Digod subdivision including Hariji's Nimoda village of Kota. 

Hundreds of people are forced to live in relief camps.

The army and the national and state disaster relief forces have been at work rescuing the locals. 

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Family Of Indian-Origin Truck Driver Behind US Crash Call For Light Penalty

'He is only 28', 'it was his bad luck' - the family and the entire village of Indian-origin trucker Harjinder Singh, who is staring at a potential 45-year jail sentence for allegedly causing a deadly crash in the US, is rallying behind him, calling for a lenient punishment.

A campaign has also been started online to generate support for the 28-year-old driver from Rataul village in Punjab's Tarn Taran district.

Harjinder (28) is facing charges of vehicular homicide in the US for allegedly causing a crash resulting in the death of three people on a Florida highway on August 12, according to a media report. He was driving a tractor-trailer and allegedly took an illegal U-turn.

After the accident, he fled to California but was brought back to Florida following the arrest, the New York Post reported on Thursday.

Dilbagh Singh, one of his relatives, said that Harjinder's family was not in a position to speak anything.

"The family is in shock," he said.

"We are also saddened over the death of three persons in the accident. Similar incidents have taken place earlier as well," Singh told reporters in Tarn Taran.

"His age is 28 years, and if he gets 45 years of jail, then you can imagine what will be the condition of his family," said Singh.

Singh appealed to the Sikh bodies to come forward to provide assistance to Harjinder.

He said that Harjinder had left for the US after mortgaging his land in 2018.

Harjinder's elder brother, Tejinder Singh, lives with his family and their mother in Tarn Taran. Their father is no more, and the family is engaged in farming.

Over a week after the incident, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a pause to all issuances of commercial truck driver work visas.

The increasing number of foreign drivers operating large tractor-trailer trucks on US roads is endangering American lives and undercutting the livelihoods of American truckers, Rubio posted on social media.

Many locals in Rataul village came out in support of Harjinder and called him a hardworking person.

Though they acknowledged that Harjinder committed a mistake, they demanded that the US authorities should not award harsh punishment.

Village sarpanch Jashandeep Singh said they stand with the family and appealed that no harsh punishment be given to Harjinder.

An elderly villager also sought that the US government should show leniency towards Harjinder.

It was his bad luck that such an accident took place, he further said.

Another villager said Harjinder did not do it intentionally. The accidents do take place, he said.

Though it was his mistake to make a U-turn, he should not be awarded any harsh punishment, otherwise his entire life gets ruined, he said.

Shiromani Akali Dal MP from Bathinda, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, has urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to ensure counsellor access was provided to Harjinder, so that his case could be pleaded appropriately.

Meanwhile, a petition on an online platform change.org has been created by a group - Collective Punjabi Youth, calling for a reduced sentence for Harjinder, arguing that the tragic accident was not a deliberate act.

While accountability matters, the severity of the charges against him does not align with the circumstances of the incident, it said. It received over 18 lakh signatures in its support.

Badal has also urged the Centre to take up the issue of the freezing of work visas of all foreign truck drivers by the US following the fatal crash.

"Punjabi and Sikh drivers make up 20 per cent of the United State' trucking industry, with around 1.5 lakh Sikh drivers engaging in trucking in the US. Any mass-level action against them would have a detrimental effect on trucking families and would be discriminatory in nature, considering the fact that Punjabis have built and sustained trucking logistics and trucking networks over decades," she said.

Badal urged Jaishankar to convey to the US government that the Punjabi community had played a vital role in meeting the high demand for drivers and alleviating the stress of driver shortages on American consumers and its economy.

She said accordingly, it should be stressed that a mistake by one driver, which had resulted in a fatal accident, should not be used to punish the entire community.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Pressure Builds, Kerala Congress MLA Accused Of Misconduct Refuses To Resign

Having stepped down as the Kerala Youth Congress president following allegations of misconduct against women, Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil is now facing growing calls for resigning from the state Assembly as well. The controversy, which began with a social media post, has now snowballed into a full-blown political crisis with leaked audio clips, WhatsApp chats and fresh testimony adding to Mamkootathil's troubles. 

The latest trigger was an audio clip, aired on Thursday by a television channel, in which a male voice, purportedly Mamkootathil's, is heard pressuring a woman to undergo an abortion. The woman, resisting the demand, asserts that she loves her unborn child and can raise it independently, without seeking his support. 

The male voice counters that the pregnancy would "destroy" his life and is even heard saying, "To kill you, what do you think, I just need a few seconds." The clip has caused widespread outrage, with women's groups, opposition parties, and even sections of the Congress party demanding accountability.

Early Allegations 

The latest controversy began when actor and former journalist Rini Ann George alleged that a young politician in Kerala had sent her inappropriate messages and invited her to a hotel room three years ago. While she did not name Mamkootathil, her suggestion that the politician's attitude was "who cares" was seen as a pointed reference to him, especially since the MLA had used the same phrase when dismissing previous charges.

After this, more allegations surfaced. Avantika, a transgender woman, alleged that Mamkootathil had made offensive remarks to her, expressing interest in what he termed "rape sex" and suggesting meetings in Bangalore or Hyderabad to fulfil his fantasies. She told NDTV that the MLA had shared his rape fantasies with her.

Screenshots of WhatsApp chats purportedly sent by Mamkootathil to another woman, asking if he could visit her when she was alone at home, also began circulating on social media.

The MLA, however, has consistently denied wrongdoing. On August 21, he resigned from all organisational posts in the Congress, including his position as state Youth Congress president, but insisted that the decision was voluntary and not forced by party leadership. 

"No one has filed a complaint against me. Anyone can cook up a story. I resigned so that my colleagues don't have to spend time defending me," he told reporters, adding that he would continue as MLA.

Political Fallout

The allegations against Mamkootathil have given fresh ammunition to rival parties ahead of Assembly elections in Kerala next year. The BJP and the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), the youth wing of the CPI(M), have staged protest marches in Palakkad, accusing the Congress of shielding him. 

BJP leaders said the allegations were too grave to be ignored and accused the Congress of "double standards," arguing that the party has previously demanded action against others based on public allegations, even in the absence of formal complaints. 

The CPI(M) has also mounted pressure, with DYFI workers taking to the streets demanding that Rahul step down. The DYFI argues that an elected representative facing such serious accusations cannot continue in office until an investigation clears him.

Voices against Mamkootathil are beginning to be raised within the Congress as well. Several senior leaders and Youth Congress workers are learnt to have conveyed to the leadership that Mamkootathil's continuation as MLA damages the party's credibility, especially in the run-up to local body and Assembly polls. 

Critics within the Congress have also pointed to the contradiction in the party's defence. They note that while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has publicly raised allegations against the Election Commission without filing a formal complaint, the party is now dismissing allegations against Mamkootathil by insisting that no case has been registered.

Defiance

Despite mounting pressure, the Palakkad MLA remains defiant. Speaking from his residence in Adoor in Pathanamthitta district, he said: "Resignation is not even in my thoughts." Reiterating that none of the women who levelled allegations have filed legal complaints, he added, "If the CPI(M) wants, they can fabricate one. Let them complain, I can prove my innocence in court."

He argued that stepping down as Youth Congress president was merely a tactical move to allow party workers to focus on campaigning without being distracted by the controversy and insisted that relinquishing his MLA seat is unnecessary since no official charges have been brought against him.

Growing Pressure

However, pressure on him is unlikely to abate. Women's rights activists have called the audio clips "deeply disturbing" and demanded that the state leadership act decisively rather than wait for legal proceedings to begin. Opposition leaders have also stressed that public trust in elected representatives is paramount, and even unproven allegations of this nature severely damage credibility.

Mamkootathil had won the Palakkad Assembly by-election in November 2024 after Shafi Parambil vacated it upon winning the Vadakara Lok Sabha contest. He secured victory with a record margin of 18,724 votes, defeating the BJP's C Krishnakumar and CPI(M)-backed P Sarin. That commanding win is now overshadowed by controversy, with Mamkootathil's political future hanging in the balance.

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Hari Hara Veera Mallu Now Streaming on Amazon Prime Video: Everything You Need to Know

Hari Hara Veera Mallu is a Pawan Kalayan starrer that revolves around an Indian named Veera, who is sent to retrieve the Koh-i-noor diamond from Aurangzeb. As he fights the Mughal Emperor, there will be action, intense sequences, and a lot more. Remember, this is more than a mission for Veera.

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James Gunn’s Superman OTT Release Date in India Reportedly Revealed

Superman 2025, directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet, lands on Prime Video (Rent) and BookMyShow Stream in India from August 26, 2025. Following its theatrical release on July 11, the superhero film will now be available online with multiple language options. Fans can either rent it or buy it . The star-studded cast includes Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, and Bradley Cooper.

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Fallout Season 2 OTT Release Date Revealed: When and Where to Watch it Online?

One of the most anticipated series is back with its new season. Fallout returns with season 2 this december as Lucy, Maximum, and The Ghoul embarks on a journey to New Vegas. This season Lucy will uncover hidden truths about her family and their connection with world’s devastation. Watch Soon.

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Maareesan OTT Release Date: When and Where to Watch It Online

Maareesan is an emotional and a comedy thriller Tamil movie that stars Fahadh Faasil and Vadivelu in the lead roles. The movie follows a thief and an Alzheimer’s patient who embark on a journey to Tiruenveli, and the unexpected twists and turns begin. Streaming soon on Netflix

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"Sitting Out Got...": Ashwin Bares It All On Retirement In Chat With Dravid

Indian cricket great Ravichandran Ashwin shocked all when he announced a sudden retirement during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in December, 2024. Following the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane, Ashwin made the announcement in the post-match press conference along with skipper Rohit Sharma after the game ended in a draw. Ashwin retired from the game as the second highest wicket-taker for India in Tests with 537 scalps in 106 games, leaving him only behind Anil Kumble (619 wickets). Ashwin continue to play domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). 

"I think it was just the time, and where I stood in my life, right? I think I was pretty old, I must admit," said Ashwin, "But going on tours, and you know, having to just sit out a lot more, it just eventually got to me." 

Ashwin added he wanted to spend more time with family. "I mean, not in terms of not wanting to contribute to the team, but you're thinking if I would rather be at home, spending time with children. They are also growing up, and what am I actually doing?" said the off-spinner. "i just felt, ok. In my head, I always decided that I would retire at 34-35."

Ashwin spearheaded the bowling attack and was a major face behind India's rise to the top and eventual domination in Test cricket that lasted from 2014 to 2019.

When one turns to look at his dominance in the home conditions, he was a phenom. His expertise wasn't just limited to the ball but also some impactful contributions with the bat.

In the white-ball format, Ashwin made 181 appearances and snatched 228 wickets. He made 116 ODI appearances and took 156 wickets at an average of 33.20, with best figures of 4/25. He also made 707 runs at an average of 16.44, with one fifty, a knock of 65 in 63 innings. He is the 13th-highest wicket-taker in ODIs for India.

In 65 T20Is, he took 72 wickets at an average of 23.22. His best figures are 4/8. He also scored 184 runs in 19 innings at an average of 26.28, with best score of 31. He is the sixth-highest wicket-taker for India in T20Is.

With 765 scalps in 287 matches, he is India's second-highest wicket-taker across all formats, next to Kumble (953). He also won the 2011 50-Over World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy with India.

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Bigg Boss 19: Full List Of Confirmed Contestants In The Upcoming Season

Bigg Boss Season 19 is all set to premiere on August 24, 2025. The new season is expected to deliver a wild ride filled with drama, fun and non-stop entertainment. 

The intriguing twist this year is the "Gharwalon ki Sarkaar" theme, which indicates a seismic shift in power from outside to inside the house. While 15 celebrities are participating in the show this season, here are the names of the confirmed contestants, as reported by India Today.

Known for his acting stint in the popular television show Anupamaa, Gaurav Khanna is confirmed to be a part of Bigg Boss 19. The actor recently participated in the reality cooking show, Celebrity MasterChef India, and won. He is reportedly the highest-paid celebrity on Bigg Boss this season. 

Child artist turned television actress Ashnoor Kaur is also set to be a part of the reality show. She is known for her roles in Patiala Babes and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.

Content creators Awez Darbar and Nagma Mirajkar have also been signed for the season. The real-life couple reportedly parted ways earlier this year. TV actors Baseer Ali, Abhishek Bajaj, Hunar Hale and Shafaq Naaz are also joining the show, along with Siwet Tomar and Khank Waghnani. 

Baseer has previously appeared on reality series like Roadies, Splitsvilla and Ace of Space. Siwet was also part of Roadies and Splitsvilla. The new season of Bigg Boss promises drama and surprises with its diverse cast.

Other confirmed contestants include gaming creator Payal Dhare and writer-actor Zeeshan Quadri. Fans will get to vote between YouTuber Mridul Tiwari and Shehnaaz Gill's brother, Shehbaz Badesha, to decide who will join the show. 

Other potential contestants that could be part of Bigg Boss 19 are singer Sreerama Chandra, Bigg Boss Marathi's Arbaaz Patel, Anupamaa actress Nidhi Shah, content creator Kirak Khala (Priya Reddy), rapper duo Seedhe Maut, social activist Atul Kishan, and advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh. 

Hosted by Salman Khan, Bigg Boss 19 will stream on JioHotstar at 9 pm and air on Colors TV at 10.30 pm. 

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Google Pixel 10 Price in India: Your Complete Guide to the New Pixel 10 Series

The Google Pixel 10 series has finally been launched in India and the global markets. Google took the wraps off its latest smartphone series at the Made by Google event held in New York on August 20. As part of its latest flagship smartphone lineup, the tech giant has introduced four models — Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Here is your complete guide to the new Pixel 10 series.

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Akram Under Fire, Cyber Crime Complaint Filed Against Pakistan Great: Report

A complaint has been filed against former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram for allegedly endorsing and associating with an online "gambling and betting" platform related to sports, an official said on Tuesday. A complainant, Muhammad Fiaz, has filed an application with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Lahore, seeking legal action against Akram for allegedly promoting a gambling and betting app. He said the former fast bowler was linked with a foreign betting app — Baji — as its brand ambassador.

"A poster circulating on social media and a video clip show Wasim Akram endorsing the online platform, which has sparked interest among general users in the app," the complainant said.

He requested the NCCIA to take strict legal action against Akram under the Electronic Crimes Act of 2016.

An NCCIA official told PTI on Tuesday that it had received a complaint against Akram for being a brand ambassador of a foreign betting app and said, "We will take action against him if the allegations are found to be true."

Akram has not yet issued any statement regarding the matter. In connection with the promotion of the same online app, famous TikToker and YouTuber Saad-ur-Rehman, popularly known as Ducky Bhai, was arrested on Saturday.

Recently, Wasim Akram, Pakistan great and one of the most lethal pacers in the history of the game, was impressed by Mohammed Siraj and termed his performance against England as “the best" he has seen in the recent past.

"I rarely watch cricket when I'm not working, but I was glued to the last day. Siraj was full of hunger and passion – it was an incredible effort. To bowl nearly 186 overs across five Tests and still be that fiery on the final day shows remarkable stamina and mental strength. He's not just a support bowler anymore. He's leading the attack and doing it with heart. Even when a catch went down– that of Brook – he didn't lose focus. That's the mark of a fighter. Test cricket is alive and kicking," Akram said in an interview to Telecom Asia Sport.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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NASA-ISRO Earth Observation Satellite Unfolds Giant Radar Antenna in Space

NASA and ISRO’s joint NISAR mission has successfully deployed its 12-meter radar reflector in orbit. This unique satellite, carrying dual L-band and S-band radars, will monitor Earth’s glaciers, volcanoes, earthquakes, and ecosystems with unmatched accuracy. The milestone reflects decades of research and showcases the strength of U.S.-India space collaboration, aiming to revolutionize Earth observation for science, policy, and sustainable development.

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"Is This A Joke": 3,000 Bighas Of Land For Cement Firm Outrages High Court

A video of a court proceeding of Gauhati High Court that was live streamed, has gone viral on social media where the court is heard raising concern over the allotment of nearly 3,000 bighas of land in Assam's Dima Hasao district to a cement company for mining of limestone.

In the video, Justice Sanjay Kumar Medhi expressed astonishment at the scale of the land grant.

"3,000 bighas! The entire district? What is going on? 3,000 bighas allotted to a private company? We know how barren the land is... 3,000 bighas? What kind of decision is this? Is this some kind of joke or what? Your need is not the issue, public interest is the issue," he is heard saying.

The court's observations came in response to submissions regarding the company's operations in the hill district. 

Counsel representing the cement firm argued that the land allotted was barren and required for the functioning of the plant.

A Congress delegation, led by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee chief Bhupen Kumar Borah and Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia, meanwhile met the Governor to express the grievances of local communities from Borolokhindong, Tharvelangso, and surrounding villages regarding the proposed mining project.

According to their memorandum, the state government's decision to allocate land in Dima Hasao for mining is being done to favour a corporate entity allegedly linked to the ruling BJP, without considering the welfare and sentiments of the indigenous people.

"The Chief Minister of Assam is making moves to allocate approximately 9,000 bighas of land in the Dima Hasao district to benefit a corporate group with close ties to the BJP. The state government is disregarding the concerns and sentiments of the indigenous communities in Dima Hasao. This issue is a matter of survival and safeguarding the land and rights of the district's local people," the memorandum read.

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Ukraine Ghost Sniper Shoots 2 Russian Troops In World's Longest Ever Kill

Ukraine's "Pryvyd" (Ghost) sniper unit has claimed to have set the record for the longest confirmed sniper kill, shooting down two Russian soldiers from a distance of around 4 kilometres. The shot, fired from a Ukrainian-made 14.5mm "Alligator" rifle, was guided to its target with the help of artificial intelligence and drones, according to a report by Defense Express.

A video of the military action is being widely circulated on social media, showing the moment a Ukrainian soldier fired the "historic" shot near the city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine during fighting on August 14.

Ukraine's former deputy minister at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Anton Gerashchenko, shared the video on X and wrote, "A Ukrainian sniper from the Pryvyd (Ghost) group made the first successful shot in the history of wars using artificial intelligence, eliminating two Russian occupiers in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad direction."

A historic sniper shot at a record distance of 4,000 meters!

A Ukrainian sniper from the Pryvyd (Ghost) group made the first successful shot in the history of wars using artificial intelligence, eliminating two Russian occupiers in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad direction.

The unique… https://t.co/102ULlYDuA pic.twitter.com/Afh8jRto7V

— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) August 15, 2025

"The unique shot, made without line of sight, was guided by a UAV system and fired from a 14.5 mm Aligator rifle equipped with a Ukrainian-made thermal imaging sight," he added.

The previous world record for a confirmed sniper kill from the largest distance was also held by a Ukrainian soldier, Viacheslav Kovalskyi. The 58-year-old veteran sniper from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) reportedly killed a Russian troop from a distance of 3.8 kilometres in November 2023, using a UK-made Horizon's Lord sniper rifle. Last week's shot reportedly beat the previous world record. 

According to Ukrainian military expert Yuri Butusov, the bullet went through the window behind which the Russian soldiers were standing.

About The "Alligator" Rifle

The "Alligator" rifle is a 14.5mm calibre sniper rifle with a muzzle velocity of between 3,215 and 3,281 feet per second, according to Defense Express report. 

It is manufactured by Kharkiv-based arms company XADO-Holding and has an effective range of 1.2 miles. The rifle weighs 25 kilograms, and was reportedly designed to disable equipment rather than kill targets.
 

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Pak Selector Makes Big Remark On India Clash At Asia Cup: "Like It Or Not..."

Pakistan chief selector Aaqib Javed fired a warning at India ahead of Asia Cup 2025 as he said that their side was ready to beat any opponent. Pakistan named their 17-member squad with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan both missing out. The Asia Cup will begin on September 9 and the final will be played on September 28. Pakistan are placed in Group A along with India, Oman and United Arab Emirates. Javed said that the team has the ability to beat India and even acknowledged that the clash between the two teams is still the biggest in world cricket. He also hinted at the political tensions between India and Pakistan before adding that it should not put any extra pressure on the cricketers.

“This team has the ability to beat India in the Asia Cup. Whether you like it or not, the match between India and Pakistan is the biggest in world cricket. Every player knows this,” Javed told reporters.

“Our squad can beat any team. Everyone is ready. Everyone knows the situation surrounding the two countries. But we don't need to put extra pressure on them,” he added.

Meanwhile, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson claimed that former captain Babar Azam has been asked to improve his strike rate following his exclusion from the upcoming Asia Cup squad.

Babar is not the only former T20I captain who has been sidelined for the T20I tri-series and the continental showpiece in the UAE. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan is also snubbed from both tournaments. The duo have not played a single T20I game for Pakistan since December last year.

However, Hesson has cleared the air on Babar's repeated omission in the T20I format, saying that he needs to develop an aggressive scoring style to earn a spot back in the shortest format.

"I think it's really harsh to challenge a player on their form in three games," he said at a press conference. "Babar played nicely in the first ODI but missed out on the next two. There's no doubt Babar's been asked to improve in some areas around taking on spin and in terms of his strike rate. Those are things he's working really hard on."

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Man's Body Found Rotting In A Drum In Rajasthan, Wife And Children Missing

A man's rotting body has been recovered from a drum on the first floor of his rented home in Rajasthan's Alwar, said the police Sunday, sparking memories of the murder in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut  where a man was found buried in a blue drum.   

The incident was reported from Adarsh colony in Tijara district. 

The landlord, an elderly woman, who was visiting the first floor for some work had to return because of the foul smell. Upon return, she called in the cops. 

The man, a native of Uttar Pradesh, was working at a brick kiln and has been identified as Hansraj, said the police, adding that his wife and three children are missing since the incident. 

A stone lay atop the blue drum, sealing its mouth, possibly to cut off the foul smell. 

Pictures from the terrace showed a policeman, dressed in civilian clothes and his face covered with a handkerchief, dropping the stone to the floor and lifting the lid. He then pulled out a bedsheet and peered in.  

"There was a report of foul smell coming from a house in Adarsh Colony. When the police team reached the spot, the body of a young man was found in a blue drum on the roof of the house. The victim has been identified as Hansraj alias Suraj," said Rajesh Kumar, Deputy Superintendent of Police.

"The victim was a resident of Uttar Pradesh and worked at a brick kiln in Kishangarh Bas area. He had taken a house on rent one and a half months ago. He lived here with his three children and wife. Hansraj's wife and children are missing from home since the incident. A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory is also here. The police are trying to collect evidence from the spot," said the officer.

It is not known for how long the man's body was there in the drum or the reason behind his murder, said the police.

The police are also trying to contact the family members of the victim. 

In March this year, a man was murdered in UP's Meerut, allegedly by his wife and her lover. The man's wife and her lover chopped up the body into pieces and buried them under wet cement in a drum. The crime came to light as the daughter kept telling the neighbours, "Papa drum main hain". 

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Why Several Voters' Homes Listed As "House Number 0"? Poll Body Clarifies

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday said instances of a person holding multiple voter identity cards arise due to migration or administrative lapses and the poll authority is working to rectify such mistakes.

Addressing a press conference here, Kumar also said the 'House number zero' issue flagged by political parties also arises as several voters do not have a home or their homes have not been given numbers by the panchayat or their respective municipality.

Kumar said the Commission had also addressed the issue of the same voter identity card number allotted to different persons in different states and corrected 3,00,000 such instances.

"Even if a person has votes in two places, he goes to vote at only one place. Voting at two places is a crime and if any person makes a claim of double voting, then proof is required. Proof was asked but was not given," the CEC said.

Kumar said knowingly or unknowingly, some people have ended up having multiple voter identity cards due to migration and other issues, and exercises like the special intensive revision (SIR) would rectify such discrepancies.

On the issue of several voters listing their homes as 'house number zero', the CEC said: "Many people do not have a home, but their name is also in the voter list. The address that is given is the place where that person comes to sleep at night. Sometimes on the side of the road, sometimes under the bridge." "If such voters are called fake voters, it would be a big joke on the poor voters," he said.

Kumar said crores of people have 'zero number' in their house addresses because the panchayat or the municipality has not given the number to the house.

"There are unauthorised colonies in the cities, where they do not have a number, so what address should they fill in their form? So the instructions of the Election Commission say that if there is any such voter in this country, the Election Commission stands with him and will give him a notional number," he said.

"Just because when he fills it in the computer, he sees zero, it does not mean that he is not a voter. In the conditions of becoming a voter, your address is not as important as your citizenship and your completion of eighteen years of age and as long as you live in the vicinity of that booth," Kumar said.

On the issue of a person holding multiple identity cards, Kumar said this was because there was no website of the Election Commission before 200 that had all the data at one place.

"So, since technical facilities were not available before 2003, many such people who migrated to different places, their names were added to many places. Today there is a website, there is a computer, you can select and delete it," Kumar said. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"You're Smelling Like Indian Curry": Irfan On Racial Remarks In Perth Test

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan recently revealed the reason behind his famous 'tongue out' celebration from the 2008 Test against Australia in Perth. Irfan had a great career with India, where he played 169 international matches and scored 2821 runs. Apart from this, he also scalped 293 wickets. He gave many match-winning performances for India and retired as one of the greats in 2012. If he talk about the rivalry, India and Australia share a cut-throat competition with each other and over the years, fans have witnessed a tough fight during their games.

During the 2008, a similar incident took place, which left Irfan fuming. The former all-rounder revealed that he was facing racial remarks from Australian fans while he was fielding at the boundary line.

"When I was fielding at the boundary line, they targeted me by saying things like, 'You have eaten Indian curry, you're smelling like Indian curry.' The Australian crowd try to get under your skin. I didn't change my field position and instead gave them replies," Irfan said during an interview with The Lallantop.

"When I took a wicket, I took my tongue out to indicate that my tongue is very clean and there's no smell. So, that celebration was for the crowd," he added.

For the unversed, India went on to win the Pert Test in 2008 by 72 runs. Irfan was awarded the Player of the Match for his all-round performance. He scored 28 and 26 runs with the bat and also scalped five wickets.

Irfan also narrated the tale of his ouster from the Indian team, recalling how former captain MS Dhoni forced him out of the team in spite of him performing well and winning games for the side.

"It was back in 2009, when we were in New Zealand. Before that, my brother (Yusuf Pathan) and I had won matches in Sri Lanka. The situation in which we had pulled a win - if it had been anyone else in our place, they wouldn't have been dropped for a year. In that match against Sri Lanka, we needed 60 runs from just 27-28 balls, and we won it from there," Irfan told The Lallantop.

"In New Zealand, I was benched for the first match, the second match, and the third match as well. The fourth match was a draw because of rain. I wasn't in the final match either. Then I asked Gary sir why I had been dropped. If there was something I needed to improve, he could tell me, but I wanted to know the reason I was left out," he added.

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1.4 Lakh Users Buy New FASTag Annual Pass On Day One

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has successfully implemented the 'FASTag Annual Pass' facility at about 1,150 toll plazas on National Highways and Expressways across the country.

The annual pass has received an overwhelming response from the National Highway users, according to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Till 7:00 pm on the first day of implementation on August 15, around 1.4 lakh users purchased and activated the annual pass and around 1.39 lakh transactions were recorded on toll plazas.

Around 20,000-25,000 concurrent users are using Rajmargyatra App at any point of time and annual pass users are receiving SMS messages for zero deduction of toll fee, according to the NHAI.

"NHAI officials and Nodal officers have been appointed on each toll plaza to ensure a smooth travel experience for the pass users. NHAI is addressing queries of the pass users through various channels. Also, to address the grievances of pass users, 1033 National Highway Helpline has been further strengthened with the addition of over 100 executives," said the highways authority.

Providing a seamless and economical travel option to the National Highway users, the FASTag Annual Pass eliminates the need to frequently recharge FASTag through one-time fee payment of Rs 3,000 for one year validity or 200 toll plaza crossings.

The FASTag Annual Pass is applicable for all non-commercial vehicles with a valid FASTag and gets activated within two hours of the one-time fee payment through Rajmargyatra App or NHAI website.

With a penetration rate of around 98 per cent and over 8 crore users, FASTag has revolutionised the Electronic Toll Collection system in the country.

The introduction of the Annual Pass facility will not only enhance the FASTag user experience but will also make journeys on the National Highways and Expressways more economical and seamless, said the ministry.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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US Parents Defend Discipline Method After Viral Video Sparks Backlash

An Oregon couple, Katie and Dustin Maletich, have defended their parenting approach after a video showing their 9-year-old son doing push-ups and 60 squats went viral, drawing mixed reactions online, according to The Fox News Digital.

The incident occurred when Dustin's stepson, Tommy, told his mother to "chill". As a response, Dustin, a prison corrections officer, asked him to complete a workout before calmly discussing respectful communication. Tommy later apologised, and the moment ended with a hug.

Watch the video here: 

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A post shared by Katie & Dustin. Blended Family. Oregon (@raisingmaletich)

While some viewers praised the stepfather for his calm and structured response, others criticised using physical exercise as a form of punishment. Dr Dyan Hes, a paediatrician in New York, called it a "ridiculous punishment", arguing that intense exercise could be harmful for a young child and might create negative associations with physical activity.

However, educational psychologist Dr Michele Borba supported the approach, noting that the stepfather remained composed and the task seemed achievable for the boy. She expressed greater concern over the potential emotional effects of publicly sharing the video.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, the Maletich family said they do not use exercise to punish their children but to teach self-control and emotional regulation. They explained that consequences are designed to match inappropriate behaviour, helping children learn constructive outlets for frustration.

Their 13-year-old daughter, they added, sometimes chooses to walk or jog when she feels upset, finding it helps her communicate more clearly afterwards.

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Viral Tea Strainer Cleaning Hack Goes Online, Here Are More Tricks

There is hardly a kitchen in the world without a tea strainer. But let us be honest – washing one can be a real hassle. Even after applying dishwashing soap, getting it completely clean is not always easy. A kitchen hack going viral online, however, shows a surprisingly simple way to rinse a soapy strainer. In the video, a person first holds the dish soap–covered strainer under running water, but it proves tricky to rinse. Then, they place a spatula between the tap and the strainer. The spatula redirects and evenly spreads the water flow, making it much easier to wash the soap away.

Also Read: Viral Video: Indian Traveller Calls Out "Worst Lunch" Experience At Eiffel Tower Restaurant

The text attached to the post reads, “Smart cleaning trick!”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jeff and Lauren (@jeffandlaurenshow)

Looks like the internet is not impressed with this hack. The comments section was flooded with satirical reactions.

A user wrote, “Doesn't your hand work just as well?”

Another one added, “Using your hand is the better option.”

“How to waste your time on the internet,” read a comment.

A person said, “Sprayer works better and faster.”

“Or just dunk into a bowl of clean water,” suggested an Instagrammer.

Also Read: Indian Woman Asks ChatGPT To Pick A Watermelon. What Happens Next Divides The Internet

If you are looking for easy ways to clean your tea strainer, here are some simple hacks you can try:

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar in a bowl. Soak your tea strainer in it for about an hour. The fizzing will help loosen the stains and residue. Rinse well with water.

2. Boiling Water

Pour boiling water over the strainer or hold it under hot running water. This will kill germs and help dissolve any stuck tea leaves. Scrub gently with a brush if needed.

3. Lemon Juice

Cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the strainer, especially on stained spots. Leave it for a few minutes, then rinse with water. Lemon's natural acid works well to remove build-up.

4. Toothbrush and Dish Soap

Soak the strainer in warm, soapy water for a few minutes. Then, use an old toothbrush to scrub it gently. Rinse well afterwards.

5. Denture Tablets

Fill a bowl with warm water and drop in a denture cleaning tablet. Add your strainer and let it soak for 15–20 minutes. The bubbles will help clean it. Rinse and dry completely.

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New Physics-Based Model Sheds Light on How Deep Neural Networks Learn Features

A Physical Review Letters study likens deep neural network feature learning to spring-block mechanics, linking data simplification to spring extension and nonlinearity to friction. The model reveals how noise can balance separation across layers and help predict performance, offering a powerful tool to optimise training, improve generalisation, and enhance efficiency in large AI systems.

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Cosmic Visitor: 4.56-Billion-Year-Old Meteorite Strikes into Georgia Home

On June 26, 2025, a dazzling daytime fireball streaked over Georgia, captured by satellites and witnessed across multiple states. A surviving fragment smashed through the roof of a McDonough home, denting the wooden floor 14 feet below. Scientists at the University of Georgia analyzed about 23 grams of this ancient rock, determining it to be a 4.56-billion-year-old L-type ordinary chondrite — older than Earth by nearly 20 million years. Likely originating from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, it may have been dislodged by a colossal collision 470 million years ago. Dubbed the McDonough Meteorite, it offers rare clues to the early solar system’s history and asteroid risks.

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Apollo 13 Commander Jim Lovell, Hero of Space Crisis, Dies at 97

Jim Lovell, legendary NASA astronaut and commander of Apollo 13, has died at 97. Renowned for turning a life-threatening lunar mission into a historic survival story, Lovell flew four pioneering spaceflights, including Apollo 8. His steady leadership during crisis inspired generations and cemented his place as one of space exploration’s most respected figures.

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Canadian Man Slams Indian Family For Playing Music At Beach, Sparks Debate

A Canadian man has sparked a heated debate on social media after criticising an Indian family for playing loud music at a beach. In a video shared on Instagram, the man, who goes by @truenorthlooper online, described himself as a one-man band. He claimed that the city authorities once stopped him from performing at a beach and fined him for the same, but are allowing others to "blast whatever kind of music they want". While complaining, he stopped in front of a picnic blanket with bags on it and a speaker playing Punjabi music.

"This is another example of coming down to the beach and blasting whatever kind of music you want and at whatever volume you want. These people are not even here, yet everyone within 150 feet has to listen to this. Great job, City of Barrie," the man said sarcastically.

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A post shared by 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗮 (@troll_canadaa_)

He went on to criticise the authorities for fining him for playing guitar at the beach. 

"Heaven forbid, I play guitar and raise money for the Barrie Food Bank. That's a no-no. But yeah, come here and blast whatever music you want, you don't even have to listen to it, go play in the water while everyone else will have to listen to it," he added.

The video was originally shared with the title "The good, the bad and the ugly reality of the City of Barrie". It resurfaced after being shared by a Canadian Instagram page. 

In the comments section, users had mixed reactions. While some agreed with him, others asked him to stop hating on other people. 

"Just confront them about it? Or request for slightly lower volume? I don't understand, is it a new trend to come and cry to the internet as a full grown man? Cmon man. Find another spot, or request them. Weeping on the internet is not it. Smh," one user wrote. 

"life is not that long to hate or jealous someone .. just enjoy everyday of your life .. live n let live," commented another. 

"Man this is just ridiculous, i think it's perfectly okay to do this. People these days be creating drama for no reason just bring the immigrants down. Last week i went to beach and english music was playing all over but guess what I didn't go pick up on anyone and minded my own gad damn business, get a life old bag," said a third user. 

"Typical Canadians always complaining about someone or something that doesn't suit them....just stay home...stop complaining just enjoy the day...let people be," wrote one user. 

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