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NEW Hindustan Times Sat 15 Aug 2026 10:35:02 AM

Non-availability of textbooks, application-based exam patterns creating academic stress among students: Par panel

SUMMARY

A Parliamentary panel has highlighted that the non-availability of textbooks and the shift towards application-based exam patterns are causing significant academic stress among students. The committee noted that students struggle when textbooks are not accessible on time, hindering preparation. Additionally, the new competency-based and application-oriented examination format, diverging from traditional rote learning, has increased anxiety. The panel urged the government to ensure timely textbook distribution and provide adequate support to help students adapt to evolving assessment methods.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 10:30:14 AM

From Rs 2.7 lakh crore to a $4 trillion economy: How India changed in 79 years

SUMMARY

India marks 79 years of independence, showcasing a remarkable economic transformation. From a modest GDP of Rs 2.7 lakh crore at independence in 1947, India has grown into a nearly $4 trillion economy, making it the fifth-largest globally. Key drivers include liberalization reforms of 1991, IT revolution, manufacturing growth, and digital infrastructure expansion. The nation has achieved significant milestones in space, defense, and technology. Per capita income has risen substantially, lifting millions from poverty. Despite challenges like inequality and unemployment, India aims to become a $5 trillion economy soon, reflecting its resilience and growth potential.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 10:25:14 AM

Loved in Sri Lanka, dissed in Pakistan: Survey reveals how the world sees India

SUMMARY

A recent global survey reveals stark contrasts in how nations perceive India. Sri Lanka emerged as the country with the most favorable view of India, reflecting strong cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties between the neighbors. Conversely, Pakistan holds the most negative perception of India, unsurprising given decades of territorial disputes, wars, and political tensions. The survey highlights India's growing global influence, with largely positive views across Southeast Asia and Africa, while mixed opinions persist in parts of the West and neighboring regions.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 09:25:06 AM

Delhi Red Fort blast linked to Al-Qaeda’s South Asia branch AQIS, flags UN report

SUMMARY

A UN report has linked the 2000 Red Fort terrorist attack in Delhi to Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). The attack, carried out on December 22, 2000, targeted the iconic monument, resulting in casualties among security personnel. The UN monitoring team's report highlights AQIS's expanding footprint in South Asia, raising concerns about the terror group's operational capabilities in India. Indian security agencies are reassessing the threat landscape following these revelations, strengthening counter-terrorism measures.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Sat 15 Aug 2026 09:25:01 AM

‘12 Years Ago, Solar Capacity Was 2 GW; Today It Is 160 GW’: PM Modi Bats For Energy Self-Reliance

SUMMARY

PM Modi highlighted India's remarkable solar energy growth, noting capacity surged from 2 GW twelve years ago to 160 GW today, reflecting the government's commitment to renewable energy. Speaking at a key event, he emphasized energy self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) as crucial for India's development and security. Modi stressed reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports, promoting green hydrogen, and achieving 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. He credited initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and rooftop solar schemes for driving this transformation toward a sustainable future.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 09:20:07 AM

India nearly doubles proposed coal mine capacity as global pipeline expands: Report

SUMMARY

India has nearly doubled its proposed coal mine capacity, signaling a major expansion despite global climate commitments. According to a recent report, India's coal mining pipeline has grown significantly, reflecting the country's continued reliance on coal for energy security and industrial growth. This expansion comes even as nations worldwide pledge to reduce fossil fuel usage. India argues coal remains essential to meet rising energy demands and support economic development for its vast population, while critics warn it undermines Paris Agreement goals.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Sat 15 Aug 2026 09:20:02 AM

In I-Day Speech, PM Modi Lists 12-Year Growth Story: Defence Production Up 4X, Electronics 7X

SUMMARY

In his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, PM Narendra Modi highlighted India's remarkable growth over the past 12 years under his government. He noted that defence production has increased fourfold, reducing dependence on imports and boosting self-reliance. Electronics manufacturing surged sevenfold, positioning India as a global hub. Modi also emphasized achievements in infrastructure, digital payments, and welfare schemes, reinforcing his vision of a developed India by 2047, urging citizens to contribute to nation-building.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 09:10:11 AM

India enters elite rocket-engine club as Astrobase unveils 800 kN FFSC engine

SUMMARY

Indian startup Astrobase has unveiled an 800 kN Full-Flow Staged Combustion (FFSC) engine, making India only the second country after the US (SpaceX's Raptor) to develop this advanced propulsion technology. FFSC engines burn both fuel and oxidizer-rich preburner gases, maximizing efficiency and reusability. This breakthrough positions India among an elite group in space propulsion. The engine promises higher performance, longer lifespan, and cost-effective launches, boosting India's growing private space sector significantly.

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NEW The Hindu Sat 15 Aug 2026 08:50:15 AM

Gautam Rangarajan, former Indian diplomat’s son and BBC exec appointed U.K. PM’s Adviser

SUMMARY

Gautam Rangarajan, a BBC executive and son of former Indian diplomat L.N. Rangarajan, has been appointed as a senior adviser to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Rangarajan, of Indian-origin, previously served as Director of Strategy at the BBC and held roles in the UK civil service. His appointment highlights the growing influence of the Indian diaspora in British politics. He is expected to play a key role in shaping Downing Street's policy and communications strategy under the Labour government.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 08:20:12 AM

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

SUMMARY

India's government proposed amending the Mines and Minerals Act, centralizing control over mining regulations and taxation. Mineral-rich states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan fear losing significant revenue and autonomy over mineral resources. The proposed changes could shift royalty-setting powers to the Centre, reducing states' fiscal independence. States argue minerals are a key revenue source funding welfare and infrastructure. Critics call it an overreach threatening federalism, while the Centre aims to streamline mining, boost production, and attract investment.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 08:15:12 AM

‘India showing interest’: Putin says cooperation growing on Northern Sea Route

SUMMARY

Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted India's growing interest in the Northern Sea Route (NSR), an Arctic shipping corridor connecting Europe and Asia. Putin noted that cooperation between Russia and India on this route is expanding, as melting ice makes it increasingly navigable. The NSR offers a shorter alternative to the Suez Canal, reducing transit time significantly. India seeks to diversify trade routes and boost energy imports from Russia. Both nations are exploring joint investments in Arctic infrastructure, logistics, and energy projects amid deepening strategic ties.

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Relevant For: Prelims + Mains GS - II International Relations

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NEW News 18 Hindi Sat 15 Aug 2026 08:15:07 AM

2 Killed After 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Indonesia, Tsunami Warning Issued

SUMMARY

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia, killing at least 2 people and prompting a tsunami warning across the region. The quake caused widespread panic as residents fled to higher ground. Authorities issued urgent evacuation orders along coastal areas, fearing devastating waves. Buildings were damaged, and infrastructure disrupted in affected zones. Emergency response teams were deployed immediately. The tsunami warning was later monitored closely before being assessed for cancellation. Indonesia, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences seismic activity.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 08:05:12 AM

Why India is refusing to open its ethanol market to the US

SUMMARY

India restricts US ethanol imports to protect its domestic sugar and ethanol industry, which supports millions of farmers. India's ethanol blending program aims to use locally produced ethanol from sugarcane and grains to reduce oil imports and boost rural incomes. Opening the market to cheaper US corn-based ethanol would undercut Indian producers and threaten government pricing guarantees. The US has pressured India under trade talks, but India maintains high tariffs to safeguard energy self-sufficiency goals and farmer livelihoods amid ongoing bilateral trade tensions.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Sat 15 Aug 2026 08:00:07 AM

Rubio Greets India On I-Day, Says Modi-Trump Bond Made US-India Ties 'Stronger Than Ever'

SUMMARY

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended greetings to India on its Independence Day, celebrating the nation's democratic journey. Rubio highlighted the strong personal bond between PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, stating it has made US-India relations "stronger than ever." He emphasized the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations across defense, trade, and technology sectors. Rubio praised India's democratic values and its growing global influence, reinforcing America's commitment to the bilateral ties.

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NEW Firstpost Sat 15 Aug 2026 07:55:12 AM

India turns to biogas as LNG import risks rise; Cabinet clears Rs 23,731 crore GOBARdhan scheme

SUMMARY

India's Cabinet approved the Rs 23,731 crore GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) scheme to boost domestic biogas and compressed biogas (CBG) production, reducing dependence on costly LNG imports amid global supply uncertainties and geopolitical risks. The scheme aims to convert cattle dung, agricultural waste, and organic waste into biogas, promoting clean energy, waste management, and rural income. It supports India's climate goals and energy security by establishing thousands of biogas plants nationwide, targeting self-reliance in green energy.

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