Union Home Minister Amit Shah has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stating that the government is ready for a discussion on the NEET exam issue in Parliament. He emphasized that in a democracy, problems can be solved through dialogue and discussion. Shah mentioned that the government is prepared to answer questions and clarify doubts raised by the opposition in the house, requesting the Speaker to facilitate a free and fair discussion for all members. https://www.dinakaran.com/news/neet_government_amitshah/

A miraculous event occurred in Mela Urudaiyarpuram village, Tirunelveli, where the deities of Sri Mariamman and Kaliamman temples reportedly opened their eyes. The temple, which houses 100-year-old swayambhu idols, has not seen a major festival for over 16 years. As news of this divine occurrence spread, large crowds from neighboring areas like Thatchanallur and Anandapuram gathered to witness the sight, creating a buzz in the locality. https://www.dinamani.com/religion/religion-news/2026/Aug/11/mariyamman-and-kaliyamman-appeared-with-eyes-open-in-nellai

The Nitya Annadanam scheme at Simhachalam Appanna Temple has successfully completed 37 years and entered its 38th year. Started in 1989 with a small donation of Rs 50,000, the scheme now has deposits worth Rs 43.21 crore. On average, 3,000 to 5,500 devotees are fed daily. The temple spends Rs 41 per plate of meal. Special privileges and darshan facilities are provided to donors contributing over Rs 1 lakh. Last year alone, the interest from deposits generated Rs 2.14 crore in revenue for the food distribution program. https://www.etvbharat.com/te/offbeat/simhachalam-appanna-temple-annadanam-free-food-distribution-donations-for-annadana-apn26081301255

A heated debate broke out in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly between members of TVK, DMK, and Congress over the NEET exemption resolution. The discussion focused on the history of NEET's introduction in India. DMK and Congress members clarified that while the bill was introduced during the UPA regime, former CM Karunanidhi's strong opposition ensured Tamil Nadu was exempted during his and Jayalalithaa's tenures. TVK members urged parties to avoid politics and focus on student welfare, citing recent student suicides. https://www.tv9tamilnews.com/tamil-nadu/tamilnadu-assembly-neet-resolution-debate-tvk-congress-and-dmk-clash-over-neet-history-97534.html

The district administration has re-allowed tourist vehicles to travel to Ooty via the Masinagudi-Kallatti route. The temporary ban, which had been in place since April 28 following a High Court order, has been lifted. This decision brings relief to local traders, resort owners, and workers in Masinagudi whose livelihoods depend on tourism. While travel to Ooty is permitted via this shorter mountain pass, return journeys from Ooty must still follow the Gudalur route for safety reasons. The route had briefly reopened on June 20 before being closed again on June 28, but is now fully functional for tourists once more. https://www.madhyamam.com/travel/news/tourist-vehicles-allowed-again-on-masinagudi-kallatti-route-1545225

Mercury is set to enter the Ashlesha Nakshatra on August 15, 2026. As Mercury rules this Nakshatra, its influence will be significantly positive and powerful. This transit is expected to bring financial gains and career growth for four specific zodiac signs: Aries, Gemini, Virgo, and Aquarius. Aries will see new income sources, Gemini will excel in professional communication, Virgo may receive promotions, and Aquarius will experience financial stability and improved health. https://pudhari.news/features/astrology/mercury-budh-ashlesha-nakshatra-transit-august-15-2026-zodiac-impact-aas86

The NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) is set for a major restructuring following discussions between key leaders including Sunetra Pawar, Parth Pawar, Sunil Tatkare, and Praful Patel. Election strategist Prashant Kishor has reportedly suggested appointing a full-time state president who can dedicate entire time to the party without being an MLA or MP. The party aims to balance Maratha and OBC equations for future electoral gains. A marathon meeting is scheduled after the Parliament session to finalize the expansion and restructuring plans across Maharashtra's assembly constituencies. https://pudhari.news/maharashtra/mumbai/ncp-ajit-pawar-party-restructuring-prashant-kishor-full-time-president-sb97

Several beaches and forests in India exhibit the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence. At beaches like Mattu, Padukere, Bangaram, Betalbatim, and Havelock, microorganisms create a blue glow in the waves. In the Western Ghats, specifically Bhimashankar and Chorla Ghat, certain fungi cause fallen wood to emit a green light during monsoon. These sightings are highly dependent on environmental conditions like water quality and darkness. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/travel/india-bioluminescence-best-places-glowing-beaches-forests-western-ghats-glowing-forests-trek/3285844

Severe monsoon rains and landslides in Himachal Pradesh have claimed over 157 lives since June 30, with 257 people missing. The state has suffered property damage worth approximately 886 crore INR. Over 259 roads, including the Mandi-Kullu national highway, are blocked. Power and water supplies have been severely disrupted across Mandi and Shimla districts. The meteorological department has issued an 'Orange Alert' for several districts including Kangra and Sirmaur, forecasting continued heavy rainfall. https://www.aajkaal.in/india/himachal-pradesh-natures-fury-in-himachal-pradesh-monsoon-havoc-claims-157-lives-260-roads-blocked-by-landslides-509207

The month of Shravan is considered highly sacred to Lord Shiva due to several mythological reasons. According to the Puranas, the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) occurred in this month, during which Shiva consumed the Halahal poison to save the world, earning the name Neelkanth. Devotees offer water to the Shivling to cool the heat of that poison. It is also believed that Goddess Parvati performed severe penance in Shravan to please Shiva. During this time, Shiva is said to reside on Earth in the Himalayas. Devotees observe Shravan Somvar fasts to overcome life's obstacles and gain divine blessings. https://pudhari.news/ampstories/web-stories/why-lord-shiva-loves-shravan-month-mythological-secrets-mk94