Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Parliament that vehicles running on E20 petrol (20% ethanol-blended fuel) may experience a 2% to 6% reduction in fuel economy, depending on the vehicle's age and category. However, he emphasized that extensive testing has found no evidence of engine failure or abnormal wear and tear caused by E20 fuel. The government defended the ethanol blending programme, highlighting its role in reducing crude oil imports, lowering emissions, and supporting farmers through increased ethanol production. Authorities also clarified that while older vehicles may see a slight drop in mileage, E20 remains safe for use in compatible vehicles. (PC: The Hindu)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a selfie-style video celebrating Parliament's passage of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. Calling paper leaks a decades-old problem affecting governments at both the Centre and states, he said the new law would safeguard students' futures and restore trust in India's examination system. The legislation introduces stricter penalties, including up to 10 years' imprisonment and heavy fines for those involved in paper leak networks. Modi said the government acted decisively against offenders and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring transparent, fair, and credible public examinations across the country. 

A Zero FIR has been registered against a Noida-based woman for allegedly making objectionable remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on July 23. The complaint, filed by a Ghaziabad resident at Noida's Expressway Police Station, alleges the remarks insulted the dignity of the Prime Minister's constitutional office and could incite hatred and disturb public peace. Police confirmed the case will be transferred to the Parliament Street Police Station in Delhi, as the alleged incident occurred within its jurisdiction. Further investigation will now be conducted by the Delhi Police. (PC: India Today)

For the first time in its history, the Pirelli Calendar is dedicated to India. The 2027 edition pays tribute to late photographer Raghu Rai and celebrates the country's beauty, culture and diversity. After Rai's passing, his daughter Avani Rai completed his vision for the project. Norwegian photographer Sølve Sundsbø also worked on the calendar, bringing an international perspective. The project features more than 200 people, including artists, performers and everyday citizens. It also includes celebrities such as Aditi Rao Hydari, Freida Pinto and Padma Lakshmi. The calendar was photographed across Rajasthan and the streets of Old Delhi.

CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said people offended by abusive slogans during recent protests should file defamation cases against those responsible instead of seeking criminal action. He said using the criminal justice system over offensive remarks could harm free speech. Das also urged young protesters to use respectful language during demonstrations. Reacting to the Delhi government's decision to close FIRs linked to the protests, he said the cases should be withdrawn instead. He also asked the government to fulfil promises made under the July 25 Jantar Mantar agreement. Das warned that students could return to the streets if those promises are not kept. (PC: ANI)

A rat allegedly carried away diamond and gold jewellery worth around Rs 10 lakh from a jewellery store in Karnataka's Tumakuru. The incident happened at Vishwas Jewellery near Caltex Circle. Staff found more than 50 grams of jewellery missing when they opened the shop. There were no signs of a break-in, which left everyone confused. Before informing the police, employees checked the CCTV footage. The video allegedly showed a rat dragging rings and chains one by one into its burrow. Staff followed the rat's path and dug up the burrow. They recovered 10 rings and three chains, bringing relief to the store.

The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Centre to preserve the Rapid Action Force's (RAF) ammunition records used during the July 20 Jantar Mantar protests over the NEET-UG controversy. The court issued notice to the Centre while hearing petitions seeking a ban on the use of pellet guns for crowd control. The bench said pellet guns may be used only in exceptional situations and sought details of the standard operating procedure (SOP) governing their use. The case follows allegations that pellet guns were used excessively during the protest. The matter will be heard again after the Centre files its response. (PC: The Indian Express)

More than 215 vice chancellors, academicians, and education leaders have written an open letter criticising Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for referring to IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti as a "gau mutra expert" during a Lok Sabha debate. The signatories said personal ridicule should not replace reasoned scientific discussion and warned that such remarks could discourage scholars from participating in public discourse. They urged political leaders to debate ideas respectfully rather than target individuals, stressing that academic freedom, scientific inquiry, and civil dialogue are essential for a healthy democracy and informed policymaking. (PC: India Today)

The Delhi government has announced that it will not pursue further legal action against people involved in protests over the alleged NEET-UG examination irregularities. The relief covers cases linked to demonstrations in the national capital but excludes individuals with criminal antecedents. Authorities said 13 cases were registered during the protests, and the review of arrests will be expedited. The order, approved by the Lieutenant Governor, follows the Centre's assurance that peaceful protesters would not face punitive action. However, Delhi Police said 989 of the 2,873 people identified during the July 20 violence had previous criminal records and remain outside the relief. (PC: HT)

Actor Sonu Sood has criticised BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut over her controversial remarks about Gen Z protesters, calling the comments "shameful". Speaking to reporters, Sonu said young people are the reason actors achieve success and deserve respect. "If she has said that, then I think it is very shameful. It should not have been said," he said. Sonu also urged public figures to think before speaking, adding that "the public is another form of God." Kangana had earlier called Gen Z protesters "Generation Gutter", triggering widespread criticism and a fresh political and social debate. (PC: NDTV)