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NEW The Hindu Sat 22 Aug 2026 08:50:07 AM

U.S. pushes allies, China to back Trump’s economic war on Iran

SUMMARY

The U.S. under President Trump intensified its economic pressure campaign against Iran, urging allies and China to cut Iranian oil imports and comply with reimposed sanctions after withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal. Washington aimed to cripple Iran's economy to force negotiations on its nuclear program, missile development, and regional influence. European allies resisted, seeking to preserve the deal, while China, a major Iranian oil buyer, opposed unilateral sanctions. The campaign strained diplomatic ties globally.

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NEW The Hindu Sat 22 Aug 2026 08:45:07 AM

Trump threatens economic punishment on ‘any country’ helping Iran

SUMMARY

President Trump has issued a stark warning, threatening severe economic sanctions and consequences against any nation that assists Iran, particularly regarding its nuclear program and oil trade. This move aims to isolate Iran economically and diplomatically. Trump's stance intensifies the "maximum pressure" campaign, targeting countries that purchase Iranian oil or engage in trade, potentially impacting relations with allies and rivals alike. The threat underscores escalating U.S.-Iran tensions and could disrupt global energy markets and international diplomacy.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Sat 22 Aug 2026 08:40:10 AM

Ladakh To Withdraw Cases Against 25 Booked Over Last Year’s Statehood Protests

SUMMARY

The Ladakh administration has decided to withdraw cases against 25 individuals who were booked during last year's statehood protests. The protesters had been demanding full statehood for Ladakh, constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, and separate Lok Sabha seats. Led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, the movement sought protection of Ladakh's land, jobs, and cultural identity. The decision to drop charges is seen as a goodwill gesture to ease tensions and foster dialogue between protesters and the government.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 22 Aug 2026 08:30:07 AM

India’s mining tax shake-up: Why mineral-rich states are worried

SUMMARY

India's government proposed replacing state-level mining taxes with a centralized GST framework, alarming mineral-rich states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan. These states rely heavily on mining royalties and cess for revenue. They fear losing fiscal autonomy and significant income if taxation shifts to the Centre. Critics argue this undermines federalism, while the Centre claims it will streamline taxation and boost investment. States demand adequate compensation, fearing budget shortfalls affecting welfare schemes and infrastructure development in mining-dependent regions.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 04:45:02 PM

‘Reservation Hatao’ Protest Underway At Ramlila Ground After Delhi Police Grants Nod

SUMMARY

A major 'Reservation Hatao' protest is being held at Delhi's iconic Ramlila Ground after Delhi Police granted permission for the demonstration. The rally, organized by anti-reservation activists, demands the abolition of caste-based reservations in education and government jobs, advocating for a merit-based system instead. Supporters argue reservations have outlived their purpose and promote division. Critics call the movement anti-constitutional and against social justice for marginalized communities. Heavy security has been deployed around the venue.

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NEW Dainik Bhaskar Fri 21 Aug 2026 04:35:12 PM

एक साल में सिर्फ 8.25% ग्रेजुएट्स को मिली नौकरी:80% डिग्री में प्रैक्टिकल और इंडस्ट्री एक्‍सपीरियंस नहीं; नीति आयोग की रिपोर्ट

SUMMARY

# भारत में ग्रेजुएट्स की रोजगार समस्या

नीति आयोग की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार भारत में सिर्फ 8.25% ग्रेजुएट्स को एक साल के अंदर नौकरी मिल पाती है। इसकी सबसे बड़ी वजह यह है कि 80% डिग्री कोर्सेज में प्रैक्टिकल ट्रेनिंग और इंडस्ट्री एक्सपीरियंस शामिल नहीं है। रिपोर्ट बताती है कि शिक्षा और उद्योग जगत के बीच भारी अंतर है। छात्रों को थ्योरी तो पढ़ाई जाती है लेकिन जॉब के लिए जरूरी स्किल्स नहीं सिखाए जाते। नीति आयोग ने सुझाव दिया कि पाठ्यक्रम को इंडस्ट्री की जरूरतों के अनुसार अपडेट करना चाहिए और इंटर्नशिप अनिवार्य की जानी चाहिए।

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NEW Firstpost Fri 21 Aug 2026 04:30:02 PM

India, Brazil sign telecom MoU at Brics meeting to boost cybersecurity, digital infrastructure

SUMMARY

India and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on telecom cooperation during the BRICS summit, aiming to strengthen cybersecurity, expand digital infrastructure, and foster collaboration in emerging technologies like 5G and AI. The agreement promotes knowledge sharing, capacity building, and joint initiatives to combat cyber threats. Both nations seek to enhance digital inclusion and connectivity for their populations. This MoU reinforces South-South cooperation and aligns with BRICS' broader vision of technological sovereignty and innovation among developing economies.

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NEW Firstpost Fri 21 Aug 2026 04:25:02 PM

Tarique Rahman’s India visit hangs in balance as Dhaka seeks ‘change in mindset’

SUMMARY

Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and eldest son of former PM Khaleda Zia, has been living in exile in London since 2008. His potential visit to India remains uncertain as Bangladesh's interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, seeks a "change in mindset" from New Delhi regarding bilateral relations. Dhaka wants India to move beyond its close ties with the ousted Awami League regime and engage constructively with the current government. Tarique faces multiple criminal cases in Bangladesh, complicating diplomatic dynamics further.

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NEW Firstpost Fri 21 Aug 2026 04:20:02 PM

Pakistan runs for narrative cover as new Op Sindoor documentary busts Asim Munir's victory claim

SUMMARY

After India released a documentary on **Operation Sindoor**—its precision military strikes against terror targets in Pakistan and PoK in May 2025—Pakistan scrambled to control the narrative. The documentary exposed the extent of damage inflicted, directly contradicting **Gen Asim Munir's** claims of a Pakistani "victory." Footage and evidence revealed destroyed terror infrastructure, undermining Islamabad's propaganda. Pakistan's military and media rushed to discredit the film, but international observers noted the credibility gap in Pakistan's version of events.

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NEW Firstpost Fri 21 Aug 2026 04:05:02 PM

‘Seek wisdom at Nalanda’: Ex-UN environment chief Erik Solheim praises India’s ancient seat of learning

SUMMARY

Former UN Environment Programme chief Erik Solheim praised India's ancient Nalanda University, urging people to "seek wisdom at Nalanda." He highlighted Nalanda as one of the world's oldest centers of higher learning, flourishing from the 5th to 12th century in Bihar, attracting scholars globally. Solheim's remarks came as India revived Nalanda University near its historic ruins, symbolizing India's rich educational heritage. He emphasized India's civilizational contributions to knowledge, philosophy, and learning, urging the world to recognize and draw inspiration from this legacy.

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NEW Firstpost Fri 21 Aug 2026 03:55:11 PM

Govt refers FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 to JPC amid Opposition protests

SUMMARY

The Union Government introduced the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) Amendment Bill 2026 in Parliament, proposing stricter regulations on foreign funding to NGOs, civil society organizations, and political entities. Amid fierce Opposition protests alleging the Bill aims to suppress dissent and target critical voices, the Government referred it to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed scrutiny. Opposition parties demanded broader consultations, calling the amendments draconian and threats to democratic freedoms. The JPC will review and submit recommendations before the Bill returns for debate and passage.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 03:50:07 PM

Why Bihar Govt Wants To Pay Rs 1 Lakh Per Video To Social Media Content Creators: The Strategy Explained

SUMMARY

**Bihar Government's Social Media Content Creator Scheme Explained**

The Bihar government has launched a unique initiative offering Rs 1 lakh per video to social media content creators to promote the state's tourism, culture, heritage, and developmental achievements. Under this scheme, creators with significant followings on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook are encouraged to produce high-quality content showcasing Bihar's lesser-known destinations, historical sites, and government welfare schemes. The strategy aims to reshape Bihar's image nationally and internationally, attract tourists, and counter negative perceptions. By leveraging influencer marketing, the government hopes to reach younger demographics effectively. Creators must meet specific follower and engagement criteria to qualify, ensuring content reaches wide audiences and generates maximum visibility for the state's progress and potential.

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NEW The Economic Times Fri 21 Aug 2026 03:20:03 PM

PM Modi urges space startups to explore applications in agriculture, livestock, environment

SUMMARY

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Indian space startups to expand their focus beyond traditional sectors and explore innovative applications in agriculture, livestock management, and environmental monitoring. Speaking at a space-tech event, Modi emphasized leveraging satellite technology for crop monitoring, weather forecasting, soil analysis, and tracking livestock health. He highlighted India's growing private space ecosystem, boosted by reforms allowing private participation. Modi stressed that space technology can transform rural livelihoods and aid climate action, urging startups to develop affordable solutions for farmers and environmental sustainability.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 02:30:19 PM

Yudh Abhyas 2026: India-US Troops To Train In Precision Fires Near China, Pakistan Borders

SUMMARY

**Yudh Abhyas 2026** is the upcoming edition of the annual India-US joint military exercise, set to focus on **precision fires training** near India's borders with China and Pakistan. This marks a significant strategic shift, as conducting drills in sensitive border regions signals deepening defence cooperation and interoperability between the two nations amid ongoing tensions with China along the LAC and security concerns near Pakistan. The exercise will involve advanced artillery, rocket systems, and coordinated fire missions, enhancing both armies' combat readiness in high-altitude and varied terrains. Yudh Abhyas has been held since 2004, alternating between India and the US, and has evolved into a key pillar of the India-US defence partnership under the broader framework of the Quad and Indo-Pacific strategy.

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NEW The Hindu Fri 21 Aug 2026 02:30:13 PM

U.S. sanctions on International Criminal Court officials | Explained

SUMMARY

The U.S. under President Trump imposed sanctions and visa restrictions on International Criminal Court (ICC) officials involved in investigating alleged war crimes by American troops and Israeli leaders. The ICC had issued arrest warrants for Israeli PM Netanyahu over the Gaza conflict. Washington called the ICC's actions overreach, arguing it lacks jurisdiction over non-member states like the U.S. and Israel. Critics condemned the move as undermining international justice and accountability for war crimes, while supporters said it protects national sovereignty.

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