An Air India pilot has failed a second dope test following a severe air turbulence incident on a Phuket-Delhi flight. The test confirmed the presence of psychoactive substances, specifically cannabis, in the pilot's system. Consequently, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has grounded both pilots involved. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched an official investigation into the incident, coordinating with international bodies and technical experts from Airbus and BEA to ensure aviation safety. https://argusnews.in/national/air-india-pilot-fails-dope-test-positive-cannabis

Learn how to make crispy masala dosa at home in just 10 minutes without the hassle of soaking rice and lentils overnight. By using rice, urad dal, methi seeds, semolina, and curd, you can prepare an instant batter. The recipe also includes steps to make a delicious potato stuffing with onions and spices. Serve this crispy homemade dosa with coconut chutney or sambar for an authentic taste. https://sambad.in/web-story/easy-crispy-masala-dosa-without-fermentation-recipe-12242090

Delhi is on high alert ahead of Independence Day following intelligence reports of potential terrorist threats. Delhi Police has released posters of 19 wanted terrorists associated with modules like Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda, and Khalistani organizations. Key suspects include Iqbal Bhatkal, Riyaz Bhatkal, and Mohsin Chowdhury. Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activities immediately as security measures are intensified across the national capital. https://odishasambad.in/delhi-on-high-alert-ahead-of-i-day-photographs-of-terrorists-circulated/

Rourkela Police busted an interstate cyber fraud gang operating in Odisha and Jharkhand, arresting four individuals from Deoghar. The gang, led by Jyotish Prasad Verma who operated under the guise of a momo shop, used fake APK files related to RTO, e-challan, and PM Kisan schemes to siphon money from victims' accounts. Police seized a car, mobile phones, and cash, while freezing 47 lakh rupees in bank accounts. The main accused has 31 criminal cases registered against him and used mule accounts for transactions worth 40-50 lakh rupees. https://sambad.in/state/interstate-cyber-fraud-gang-busted-4-arrested-from-jharkhand-47-lakh-frozen-12250803

A total solar eclipse is scheduled for August 12, 2026, occurring on Shravana Amavasya. While it will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, and Spain, it won't be visible in India due to nighttime. According to Vedic scriptures, since the eclipse is not visible in India, the 'Sutak' rules do not apply. Additionally, experts clarify that watching the live broadcast of the eclipse on mobile phones, TV, or laptops does not attract any religious faults or 'Grahan Dosha' as these are merely digital transmissions and not direct celestial exposure. https://www.dharitri.com/surya-grahan-2026-mobile-live-stream-sutak-dosh-shastra-rules/

Abhijit Deepke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), has criticized the police action against students protesting recruitment irregularities in Jharkhand. He compared the lathi-charge and use of tear gas in Jharkhand to past incidents at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Deepke questioned why force is being used instead of resolving issues through dialogue and announced that CJP fully supports the students, with their team providing aid to injured protesters on the ground. https://www.dharitri.com/abhijeet-dipke-cjp-jharkhand-student-protest-lathicharge-tear-gas-support-government-school-improvement-campaign-august-15/

India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026, with a historic first-time rendition of 'Vande Mataram' from the Red Fort to mark its 150th anniversary. Special invitations have been extended to Gen-Z youth and Olympiad medalists. The event will focus on 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047,' featuring displays of atomic and space technology. Seating areas will be named after Indian lakes to promote water conservation. Additionally, 343 band performances by armed forces will be organized nationwide to instill patriotism. https://odishasambad.in/vande-mataram-to-be-sung-from-red-fort-for-first-time-gen-z-to-get-greater-representation/

Shiv Sena (UBT) in its mouthpiece 'Saamana' has strongly condemned the attack on West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, calling it a direct assault on the democratic fabric of India. The editorial criticized the central government for its paradoxical stance on law and order and noted that political violence in Bengal has crossed all limits. It highlighted that opposition leaders are being targeted with weapons to suppress their voices, while central agencies remain inactive in restoring peace compared to their promptness during elections. The party warned that democracy cannot survive if the opposition is treated as an enemy to be physically eliminated. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/mamata-banerjee-attack-democracy-shiv-sena-ubt-criticises-centre-12250073

The NDA held its weekly 'Mangal Milan' strategy meeting at the Parliament Library, attended by PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. The meeting focused on planning the strategy for the remaining three days of the Monsoon Session. It commenced with 'Vande Mataram' and saw leaders waving the national flag. Additionally, NDA MPs protested within the Parliament premises regarding student demonstrations in Jharkhand. The primary goal of these meetings is to ensure coordination among alliance partners and foster constructive discussions during the session. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/nda-mangal-milan-meeting-12250624

In 2025, India reported significant biological discoveries with Kerala leading in new animal species findings, particularly in the Western Ghats. The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) recorded 353 plant species, including 221 entirely new to science. Arunachal Pradesh emerged as the leader in plant discoveries. Notable finds include a new fern variety, a wild custard apple species from the Western Ghats, and an edible 'tooth fungus', highlighting India's rich and evolving natural heritage. https://www.samayalive.in/feature/major-center-of-biodiversity/article-38084