India’s Defence Ministry has issued a major tender worth nearly ₹1 lakh crore to acquire 60 Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) for the Indian Air Force. The programme aims to modernise the IAF’s ageing transport fleet, particularly replacing its Soviet-era An-32 aircraft. The procurement is expected to strengthen India’s strategic airlift, logistics and operational capabilities. Major global manufacturers, including Lockheed Martin and Brazil’s Embraer, are expected to compete, with Indian companies likely playing a key role in the programme. The initiative also supports domestic defence manufacturing through local production and technology partnerships, reflecting India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence. (PC: ANI)

The Bar Council of India (BCI) on August 13 withdrew its directive temporarily blocking enrolment of NALSAR University of Law’s 2026 graduates after a controversy over a student campaign opposing Chief Justice of India Surya Kant as convocation chief guest. Around 450 of NALSAR’s 1,400 students had opposed the invitation. The BCI initially sought a three-day report identifying campaign organisers and halted enrolment of the entire graduating batch. Hours later, it reversed the decision, saying most students were not involved and should not suffer for others’ actions. The BCI will await NALSAR’s inquiry report before considering further action.

At least 19 workers were trapped inside an under-construction tunnel at the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, after water and debris suddenly entered the tunnel on August 13. Officials said 16 workers were successfully rescued, while three were still feared trapped as rescue operations continued. Some rescued workers suffered minor injuries and were reported to be stable. Police, SDRF, CISF, ITBP, Army and other agencies joined the operation, with an NDRF team also deployed. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami directed authorities to conduct rescue efforts on a war footing and ensure the safe evacuation of everyone. (PC: PTI)

Former women Maoists from Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region made an unusual transition from conflict-affected forests to the fashion runway at a National Handloom Day event in Raipur. Wearing traditional Chhattisgarhi handloom outfits and Kosa silk, they walked alongside professional models at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium. The women, who had surrendered and entered rehabilitation programmes, underwent a week-long grooming and confidence-building programme before the event. Their participation highlighted rehabilitation, skill development and reintegration into society. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai met the participants and encouraged them. The event also drew significant online attention, with many viewing the runway appearance as a symbol of empowerment, resilience and fresh opportunities.

A tunnel under construction for the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project collapsed in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on Thursday, with several workers feared trapped inside. The incident occurred in the Pipalkoti area, where approximately 18 workers were reportedly inside the tunnel when it collapsed, according to Chamoli District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar. Initial reports indicated that a landslide inside the under-construction tunnel caused the collapse. Rescue teams were immediately deployed and began clearing debris and searching for trapped workers. Eight workers have so far been rescued, while operations continue to locate and evacuate those potentially still inside. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as emergency personnel work to reach the remaining workers.

Gen Z and “Yuva Shakti” will take centre stage at India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations at Delhi’s Red Fort on August 15. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebrations, which will commemorate 150 years of the National Song, “Vande Mataram.” For the first time, the song will be rendered at the historic venue during the Independence Day event. The celebrations will focus on the energy, aspirations and contributions of young Indians to the country’s development journey towards Viksit Bharat@2047. A full-dress rehearsal was held at the Red Fort on August 13 ahead of the celebrations. The event is expected to combine the Independence Day ceremony with a prominent focus on youth participation and national identity. (PC: ANI)

The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) has announced plans to conduct a proper scientific study to examine concerns surrounding E20 petrol, after withdrawing an earlier communication on fuel contamination. SIAM said the previous data had insufficient testing and sample size to support definitive conclusions. The decision follows concerns raised by automakers over chloride and moisture contamination in fuel samples. SIAM maintains that the withdrawn communication should not be interpreted as evidence against E20 itself. Meanwhile, the government and ARAI have maintained that E20 is safe for compatible vehicles after extensive testing. The controversy has intensified consumer concerns over mileage and vehicle performance. (PC: The Hindu)

A 30-year-old nurse, Rupali Burman, was found dead inside a locked toilet at Nilratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on Wednesday night. Burman was reportedly on duty in the gynaecology department’s High Dependency Unit (HDU), having started her shift at 8 pm. She entered the restroom around 10:20 pm but did not return. Colleagues called out to her several minutes later, but received no response, prompting them to break open the door. She was found unconscious and later died before medical treatment could be provided. Police have taken over the investigation, with CCTV and forensic evidence being examined. (PC: NDTV)

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked with a kirpan at Gurdwara Mata Sahib Devan Ji Mugat in Nanded, Maharashtra, on Thursday afternoon. Police detained 62-year-old Pune-based lawyer Jaspal Singh Tejpal, dressed in Nihang attire, who reportedly approached Badal as he descended the steps after prayers. Security personnel immediately intervened, preventing a more serious attack. Badal sustained injuries to his right hand and received two to three stitches, while a security officer was also hurt. Maharashtra Police are questioning the accused and investigating the motive. SAD leaders have demanded a CBI probe, citing possible security and intelligence failures. (PC: India Today)

Lok Sabha proceedings opened with ‘Vande Mataram’ on Thursday, marking the first time the National Song was played at the start of a parliamentary sitting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other MPs were present as 6 stanzas were played on the final day of the Monsoon Session. The Rajya Sabha also closed its session with the National Song. The move came days after President Droupadi Murmu approved a law giving legal protection to ‘Vande Mataram’ and making disruption of its singing punishable. The Monsoon Session ended amid repeated protests and heated exchanges between the government and Opposition. (PC: India Today)