As India prepares to celebrate its 80th Independence Day on August 15, this guide provides tips and topics for students and professionals to prepare impactful speeches. It suggests choosing unique topics like Digital India, unsung heroes, and current challenges. The guide emphasizes preparation through structured drafting (introduction, body, conclusion), time management, accurate facts, and regular practice in front of a mirror or recording to build confidence and ensure clear pronunciation. https://www.prajavani.net/miscellaneous/youth/independence-day-speech-preparation-tips-kannada-4189704

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief and former Punjab Deputy CM Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked with a sword at a Gurdwara in Nanded, Maharashtra. The incident occurred as he was exiting Gurudwara Mata Sahib. Badal sustained a serious injury to his left hand, and a police inspector was also injured while trying to protect him. Both are currently stable in a hospital. The attacker, identified as Jaspal Singh, a Nihang Sikh volunteer at the Gurdwara, has been arrested. This is the second attack on Badal in two years. https://tv9kannada.com/national/former-punjab-deputy-cm-sukhbir-singh-badal-attacked-in-nanded-hospitalised-1224760.html

Senior artist Manjula B. Jane inaugurated Neelambika Hiremath's solo art exhibition at Anuchandra Art Studio in Kalaburagi. She described artists as cultural ambassadors and noted the increasing participation of women in art. Statistics reveal that 46% of artists in India and 35% in Karnataka are women. Speakers emphasized the need for encouraging female artists to showcase their talent at national levels. https://sanjevani.com/artists-are-the-countrys-cultural-ambassadors-manjula-b-jane/

District Minister Santosh Lad visited the fields in Alnavar taluk's Benachi, Dori, and Ambolli villages to assess crop damage due to excessive rain and drought conditions. Farmers expressed their distress, stating that crops like maize and paddy have not formed grains despite appearing green. The minister assured them that he has personally observed the situation and will work with officials and the government to ensure fair compensation and justice for the affected farmers. https://publicnext.com/news/district/hubballi-dharwad/politics/kn/alnavar-minister-santosh-lad-visits-farms-promises-justice-for-farmers-1282367

Ati Amavasya is celebrated with great significance in Tulu Nadu, where drinking a medicinal decoction made from the bark of the Hale tree (Alstonia scholaris) is a mandatory tradition. Believed to boost immunity for the entire year, the bark is collected during the Brahma Muhurta (before sunrise) to preserve its potency. This bitter drink is known to cure respiratory issues, fever, and digestive problems. Following the decoction, a special fenugreek porridge is typically consumed as part of this health-focused cultural ritual. https://publicnext.com/news/district/udupi/lifestyle/kn/udupi-aati-amavasya-tradition-of-drinking-aati-kashaya-in-every-household-in-tulunadu-1283495

On the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a 78-minute speech from the Red Fort, his shortest in the last four years. This contrast with his 103-minute long address in 2025. The 78-minute speech focused on 'Shakti Saptadhare', Gen Z outreach, and national development. Over previous years, his speech durations were 74 minutes in 2022, 90 minutes in 2023, and 98 minutes in 2024. https://kannada.asianetnews.com/gallery/india-news/pm-modi-80th-independence-day-shortest-speech-duration-red-fort-san-o58xkae

As per RBI guidelines, savings or current accounts with no customer-initiated transactions for over two years will become inactive. Merely having a balance is not enough to keep it active; transactions are mandatory. To reactivate such accounts, customers must complete the KYC process at their bank branch or via video identification. The bank emphasizes updating phone numbers and addresses to prevent fraud. Experts suggest monitoring messages from banks and closing unused accounts to ensure financial security. https://kannada.news18.com/photogallery/business/bank-account-rules-your-savings-account-could-be-closed-if-you-fail-to-complete-these-mandatory-updates-hmg-2469087.html

Naga Panchami 2026 will be celebrated on August 17. The auspicious puja muhurat is from 05:51 AM to 08:29 AM. The article details the spiritual significance of serpent worship in Sanatana Dharma, explaining its connection to lunar phases and human traits. It highlights mythological stories like Krishna's victory over Kaliya and the origin of snake venom during Samudra Manthan. Devotees perform rituals for financial prosperity, health, and to mitigate Kaala Sarpa Dosha. https://saakshatv.com/nagara-panchami-2026-date-muhurat-significance/

During the 80th Independence Day celebrations at Delhi's Red Fort, the full version of 'Vande Mataram' was officially played for the first time before the flag hoisting. This special honor marks the 150th anniversary of the national song. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag, accompanied by a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105mm guns. Furthermore, the newly enacted 'Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Act, 2026' now provides 'Vande Mataram' the same legal protection as the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana', making any intentional disrespect to the song a punishable offense. https://tv9kannada.com/national/80th-independence-day-vande-mataram-gets-historic-full-play-and-legal-shield-at-red-fort-1225349.html

On World Lion Day, wildlife keepers at Mysuru Zoo share insights into the care and emotional bonds formed with lions. While India's lion population has risen to an estimated 891 in 2025, zoos maintain genetic health through animal exchange programs. Lions receive a specialized diet of beef and chicken to prevent heart issues and undergo regular medical checkups using specialized tools. The article highlights how these majestic animals recognize their keepers' voices and scents in a controlled environment. https://www.prajavani.net/agriculture/animal-world/world-lion-day-india-population-zoo-care-details-4184708