The BCCI is set for a major shake-up in its men’s selection committee, with former India spinner and three-time IPL winner Pragyan Ojha likely to replace S Sharath from the South Zone. Ojha’s inclusion comes as Sharath completes his term, while the Central Zone replacement remains undisclosed. The BCCI recently invited applications for two selector positions, with eligibility requiring either seven Test matches or 30 first-class games, or 10 ODIs and 20 first-class matches. The current committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, includes SS Das, Subroto Banerjee, Ajay Ratra, and S Sharath. Contracts are renewed annually, and the final appointments will follow after the September 10 application deadline. (PC: NDTV & Sports Media)

Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong condemned the U.S. for imposing steep tariffs on India, calling Washington a “bully” exploiting trade as a bargaining chip. He criticized the 50% tariffs and additional penalties linked to India’s Russian oil and arms purchases, warning that silence only empowers such tactics. Amid strained U.S.-India trade ties, Xu urged stronger India-China cooperation, praising both nations as “double engines” of Asian growth. He invited Indian enterprises to invest in China and called for fair treatment of Chinese firms in India. Xu affirmed China’s support for multilateral trade under the WTO and expressed optimism about PM Modi’s upcoming visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.(PC: BBC)

The Supreme Court of India has acknowledged that its earlier August 11 order prohibiting the release of vaccinated stray dogs in Delhi and NCR was “too harsh.” In a revised directive, the Court now allows treated dogs to be released back into the same area after sterilisation and immunisation. This marks a significant shift in judicial tone, balancing public safety with humane animal management. The modification follows widespread concern from civic bodies and animal welfare groups. The original order had sparked criticism for its rigidity. The updated stance reflects the Court’s recognition of practical and ethical considerations in managing urban stray dog populations across the National Capital Region.(PC: NDTV & Hindustan Times)

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Hamas, declaring that “the gates of hell will soon open” if the group does not accept Israel’s conditions for ending the war. Katz stated Gaza City could face destruction similar to Rafah and Beit Hanoun. His remarks followed Prime Minister Netanyahu’s announcement of a major military operation to capture Gaza City. Israel demands the release of all hostages and Hamas’s full disarmament. Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal from Arab mediators but refuses to disarm without a Palestinian state. Israeli officials remain skeptical, citing past failed negotiations. Humanitarian groups warn of worsening crisis amid escalating tensions. (PC: Al Jazeera)

India’s top archaeologist BR Mani has revealed that gold coins called Nishka were used during the Harappan and Rig Vedic periods nearly 3,000 years before the Kushan dynasty. Once mistaken for ornamental beads, these perforated gold discs were found at sites like Mohenjodaro, Lothal, Rakhigarhi, and Mandi. Mani’s lecture at Delhi’s National Museum, attended by top scholars, highlighted their use as currency, trade assets, ritual offerings, and status symbols. Textual references in Rig Veda, Panini’s works, and Jataka tales support this claim. The discovery challenges long-held beliefs and reshapes our understanding of ancient Indian economy, metallurgy, and cultural sophistication. (PC: India Today)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi praised the Supreme Court’s revised order on stray dogs, calling it a “compassionate approach” that balances public safety with animal welfare. The Court directed that stray dogs be vaccinated and sterilised, then released in the same area, while aggressive or rabid dogs must be sheltered. Feeding on public roads was prohibited, with municipal bodies instructed to create designated feeding zones. Gandhi, known for his advocacy of animal rights, welcomed the humane framework and urged civic bodies to implement it responsibly. His endorsement adds political weight to the ruling, which aims to reduce conflict between communities and stray animals through structured, ethical management. (PC: ANI)

The BCCI has clarified its stance on India’s ODI captaincy succession, denying reports that Shreyas Iyer is being considered to replace Rohit Sharma. Instead, Shubman Gill is emerging as the frontrunner for all-format leadership. Gill, currently vice-captain for the Asia Cup and recently appointed Test captain, boasts a strong ODI average of 59 and is seen as a long-term asset. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed claims about Iyer’s promotion, stating, “That’s news to me.” Officials also expressed doubts about Rohit Sharma’s fitness for the 2027 World Cup. Gill’s T20I future depends on adapting to India’s aggressive style, while Suryakumar Yadav leads until the next World Cup. (PC: The Cricket Lounge & News 18)

A rare and stunning sight unfolded at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi after the Shayan Aarti on August 21, 2025, when a pure white owl alighted atop the temple’s golden spire. The sighting—captured by Temple PRO Anand Shukla and shared by CEO Vishwa Bhushan Mishra—went viral, captivating devotees and spiritual onlookers . In Hindu tradition, the owl is regarded as the vahana (vehicle) of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing wealth, purity, and divine favor. Many worshippers interpreted the appearance as an auspicious omen, reinforcing their faith and optimism for prosperity and protection.

The Supreme Court of India has modified its earlier directive on stray dogs, emphasizing humane treatment while ensuring public safety. The Court ruled that stray dogs must be vaccinated and sterilised, then released in the same area they were picked up from. However, dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior or infected with rabies must be immunized and kept in shelters. Importantly, the Court prohibited feeding stray dogs on public roads, directing municipal bodies like the MCD to establish designated feeding zones. The original order on picking up stray dogs remains unchanged. This balanced approach aims to protect citizens while respecting animal welfare, marking a significant shift in urban stray dog management policy. (PC: The New York Times)

India delivered a stellar performance at the 18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA 2025), hosted in Mumbai from August 11–21. Competing against nearly 300 students from 63 countries, the Indian team clinched four gold medals and one silver, marking one of its best showings. Among the standout winners were Banibrata Majee and Akshat Srivastava from Narayana Educational Institutions. The team was mentored by IISER Mohali faculty, Professor Jasjeet Singh Bagla and Dr. Harvinder Kaur Jassal. Organized by HBCSE-TIFR, the event fostered global collaboration, with India’s success highlighting its growing strength in astronomy and astrophysics education.