Around 4,000 years ago, India’s desi dogs travelled 7,000 kms and reached Australia. Scientists say these dogs later became the dingo, now seen as Australia’s native animal. Genetic studies show a strong link between Indian dogs and dingoes. Aboriginal people lived with dingoes, raised them, and told stories about them. Dingoes also changed Australia’s ecology as top predators. Archaeological records confirm their sudden arrival about 3,500 years ago. The desi dogs, known for their curled tails and sharp ears, survive in India even today. Their pawprints in Australia tell of a long journey from South Asia. (PC: India Today)

A Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) report claims U.S. President Donald Trump attempted to contact Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi four times via phone, but the calls went unanswered—highlighting growing friction between the two leaders over trade policy. FAZ suggests Modi’s silence signals both deep irritation and strategic caution, particularly in response to U.S. demands for Indian market access and Trump's aggressive tariff posture. India has not publicly commented. The gambit reflects an escalating diplomatic standoff, with India pushing back on pressure tactics and asserting its autonomy in foreign policy. (PC: Reuters)  

U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated claims during a White House meeting that he personally intervened to avert a potential nuclear clash between India and Pakistan earlier this year, by warning both countries of “tariffs so high, your head’s going to spin” if hostilities persisted. He recounted pressing Prime Minister Modi and Pakistani leaders, asserting that the threat prompted a rapid ceasefire within hours. India, however, dismissed the claim, stating the de-escalation was achieved through direct military diplomatic channels. The assertion comes amid escalating U.S.–India tensions marked by fresh tariff escalations and strained diplomatic ties. (PC: NDTV)

On August 26, 2025, torrential monsoon rains in Jammu & Kashmir unleashed a deadly landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine, killing at least 30 pilgrims, injuring others, and suspending the pilgrimage amid active rescue operations. Simultaneously, a cloudburst in Doda’s Charu Nallah caused flash floods that claimed three lives, damaged homes, and collapsed infrastructure in Kishtwar. The calamity has led to widespread disruption—roads blocked, train services cancelled, and flood alerts issued. These events add to an ongoing regional monsoon crisis, marked by recurring cloudbursts and floods, with mounting casualties and humanitarian concerns across the area and neighboring Pakistan. (PC: The Hindu)

On August 26, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched its Starship-Super Heavy system from Starbase, Texas, marking the 10th full-stack test flight. The Super Heavy booster performed controlled burns before splashing into the Gulf of Mexico, while Starship entered orbit and deployed eight dummy satellites—a first for the program. The vehicle also conducted an in-space Raptor engine relight test before reentry. Starship reentered Earth’s atmosphere and splashed into the Indian Ocean, sustaining some damage but achieving mission goals. The test showcased significant progress toward reusable spacecraft, advancing SpaceX’s ambitions for Moon, Mars, and Starlink missions. (PC: SpaceX)

Starting August 27, the US will impose a 50% tariff on many Indian goods, doubling the earlier 25%. This comes as retaliation for India’s purchase of Russian oil and military equipment. Nearly two-thirds of India’s exports to the US, worth around $60 billion, will be hit. Key sectors like textiles, gems, jewellery, carpets, and shrimp may suffer heavy losses. Small businesses fear job cuts as costs rise. Experts warn the move could also raise prices and inflation in the US. India’s exports to America may drop sharply, giving rivals like China, Vietnam, and Mexico a major advantage. (PC: NDTV)

Heavy rain and landslides killed 11 people in Jammu and Kashmir, including 7 pilgrims on the Vaishno Devi route. Over 20 were injured and the yatra was suspended. In Doda, 4 people died in separate incidents. Floods damaged homes, highways, and railways, leaving thousands stranded. The Jammu-Srinagar and Kishtwar-Doda highways were closed, while 18 trains were cancelled. In Himachal’s Kullu, the Beas river washed away part of the Chandigarh-Manali highway. Punjab declared high alert after overflowing rivers flooded several districts. Schools across Jammu and Kullu were shut. Authorities warned of more heavy rain, flash floods, and landslides till August 27. (PC: X)

A German newspaper has reported that US President Donald Trump tried to call Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi four times in recent weeks, but Modi refused to speak. The report said this showed both Modi’s anger and caution after the US imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, the highest after Brazil. Washington also penalized India for buying oil from Russia. Trump earlier called India’s economy “dead,” which Modi countered by saying India was moving towards being a top 3 economy. Analysts suggest Trump’s actions may push India closer to China as ties between New Delhi and Washington face strain. (PC: India Today)

DJ TRYPS made history by performing a full live set while paragliding at 10,000 feet. She is the first female DJ in India to achieve this daring feat. Suspended in the sky, she turned the open air into a dancefloor as her beats echoed over the mountains. The performance tested her skills, courage, and focus against wind and turbulence. “Music has no boundaries,” she said. Her airborne set has inspired many and shown that creativity knows no limits. Videos of her performance went viral, with fans calling it “legendary” and “brave.” (PC: X)

Heavy rain continues to batter Jammu, causing floods, landslides, and disruption across the region. At least 11 people have died, including seven on the Vaishno Devi yatra route and four in Doda. Rivers Tawi, Chenab, and Basantar are flowing above alert levels. Authorities imposed night curfew from 8 pm to 8 am and closed schools and offices. Highways and several roads remain blocked due to landslides. Indian Army teams are carrying out rescue operations and evacuating people from low-lying areas. Pilgrims to Vaishno Devi are advised to replan their journey. Helpline numbers have been issued for assistance. (PC: X)