PNC Infratech has secured two National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects worth ₹3,483 crore in Uttar Pradesh, despite facing scrutiny over alleged construction quality issues linked to the Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway and an ongoing CBI investigation into alleged bribery. The fresh contracts have sparked questions over the company's continued eligibility for major infrastructure projects. The development comes as authorities investigate defects reported on the expressway, prompting concerns about project oversight and accountability. While the company has denied wrongdoing, the contracts have intensified debate over transparency, procurement standards, and quality control in India's highway infrastructure sector. (PC: India Today)

At least eight people were detained by Delhi Police after a group of sadhus, including women protesters, attempted to stage a demonstration near Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s official residence in the high-security Lutyens’ Delhi area. Police said the protest violated restrictions imposed around the sensitive zone. Rahul Gandhi stepped out to meet the demonstrators and questioned the police action before being briefly stopped during the commotion. The Congress accused the authorities of curbing peaceful protests, while Delhi Police maintained that the detentions were necessary to enforce security regulations and maintain public order. 

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi introduced Noori, a Jack Russell Terrier he adopted from Goa for his mother, Sonia Gandhi, on World Animal Day. Sharing Noori's story, Gandhi said that humans do not own the planet but share it with animals and other living beings. Emphasizing that every animal deserves affection, he called for kindness, empathy, and responsible care toward animals. Gandhi said that the way people treat animals reflects their values and urged society to foster a culture of compassion, respect, and peaceful coexistence with all living creatures. 

Addressing the International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN) Youth Conference in Mumbai, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said the concerns raised by Gen Z are genuine and that student protests are a legitimate part of democratic dialogue. He stressed that protests should aim to build consensus rather than deepen divisions, adding that demonstrations often arise when young people feel unheard. Bhagwat also said India’s education system requires significant reforms and urged leaders to engage with youth through open discussion instead of expecting blind obedience. His remarks highlighted the importance of constructive dissent and meaningful youth participation in nation-building. (PC: Reuters)

A government audit has found that all ₹3,300 crore received for the construction of the Ram Mandir has been fully accounted for, rejecting allegations of a financial scam. According to government sources, the controversy arose from errors during manual cash sorting rather than any diversion or misuse of funds. The audit reportedly verified donations, expenditure records, and financial transactions, concluding that no money was missing. Officials said the findings reinforce the transparency of the temple trust's financial management. The government has urged the public to avoid misinformation and rely on verified audit reports regarding the Ram Mandir donations. (PC: X)

Ahead of Independence Day, youth activist and Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to dedicate a portion of his August 15 address to India's youth. In a post on X, Dipke called on the Prime Minister to explain the government's plans and initiatives for young people, writing, "We request the Prime Minister to address the youth this Independence Day and tell them what steps are being taken for them." His appeal comes as anticipation builds around the Prime Minister's annual Red Fort speech, which traditionally outlines the government's priorities. The post has sparked broader discussion on employment, education, skills, opportunities and the aspirations of young Indians nationwide.

The Central Government has intensified scrutiny of Meta after Facebook briefly removed a video featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the explanation inadequate. During meetings with Meta's global team, officials also raised concerns over the platform's handling of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), deepfakes, bots, and algorithmic accountability. The government warned that failure to comply with Indian laws could jeopardise Meta's safe harbour protection, which shields intermediaries from liability for user-generated content. Meta acknowledged operational shortcomings, apologised for the video removal, and pledged to strengthen content moderation and legal compliance in India. (PC: India Today)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged young Indians to celebrate National Handloom Day on August 7 by creating “Get Ready With Me” (GRWM) videos featuring handloom outfits. In an Instagram Reel, he linked the day to the Swadeshi Movement launched on August 7, 1905, and called on people to recognise and support India’s weaving community. Modi said showcasing handloom products through a popular social media trend could help promote artisans’ craftsmanship globally while strengthening their livelihoods. He encouraged citizens to buy at least one handloom product, share videos online and inspire others to do the same, saying the initiative would contribute to building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat by economically empowering weaving families across India.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has reduced the deadline for social media intermediaries to remove "unlawful information" from 36 hours to three hours after receiving a valid notice from the government or a court. The revised IT Rules, amended in February, also require platforms to clearly label AI-generated content and attach traceable metadata, enabling users to identify synthetic material and reduce deception or misuse. The rules strengthen platform due diligence and user accountability by mandating awareness of legal consequences for unlawful AI-generated content. Intermediaries must also take prompt action against child sexual exploitation material, non-consensual intimate imagery, impersonation and other harmful AI-generated content. (PC: Pexel)

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said India's Generation Z should not be labelled anti-national, asserting that many young people are raising legitimate concerns about the country's future. Speaking at an event, Bhagwat urged society to engage with students rather than dismiss their views, noting that questioning and debate are natural among youth. He stressed that patriotism should not be judged solely by disagreement with authority and encouraged constructive dialogue between generations. Bhagwat also highlighted the importance of understanding young people's aspirations and addressing their concerns to strengthen national development and social harmony. (PC: Reuters)