External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled to visit Moscow on August 21 for the 26th India-Russia Commission meeting. A delegation from the Ministry of Commerce will accompany him to engage in discussions on advancing trade relations. Key topics include initiating negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), comprising Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. Additionally, the delegation will explore mechanisms for settling transactions in Indian Rupees and Russian Roubles, aiming to enhance bilateral trade and reduce dependence on the US dollar. (PC: Money Control)

On August 14, 2025, India awarded over 1,000 gallantry and service medals to armed forces and paramilitary personnel. 16 BSF personnel were recognized for bravery during Operation Sindoor, responding to the Pahalgam terror attack by neutralizing threats, drone attacks, and replenishing ammunition under fire. 13 IAF officers received the Yudh Seva Medal for key roles in offensive operations, while 26 IAF personnel earned the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry), including fighter pilots and S-400 operators defending Indian airspace. These awards highlight courage, dedication, and commitment to national security. (The Economic Times)

A devastating cloudburst hit Chositi village in Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir, on August 14, 2025, along the Machail Mata pilgrimage route. At least 40 people have died, including two CISF personnel, over 200 remain missing, and 120 have been rescued, many in critical condition. Flash floods destroyed homes, roads, and infrastructure, severely affecting the pilgrimage. Large-scale rescue operations are underway involving NDRF, SDRF, Army, and local volunteers despite challenging terrain and ongoing heavy rainfall. The pilgrimage has been suspended, and authorities are coordinating relief efforts. (PC: India Today)

The Supreme Court of India, in its written order dated August 14, 2025, expanded upon its August 11 directive concerning stray dogs in Delhi-NCR by emphasizing strict animal welfare protocols. The Court mandated that trained veterinarians must provide timely medical care, and that weak or vulnerable animals be housed separately "as far as possible." It also warned against mistreatment, cruelty, overcrowding, starvation, or neglect at any stage. The order called on the public and animal-welfare organizations to assist authorities in responsibly operating shelters. Additionally, the matter was reassigned to a three-judge bench led by Justice Vikram Nath. (PC: HT Photo)  

U.S. President Donald Trump, ahead of his much-anticipated meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15, 2025, issued a stark warning: “There will be very severe consequences” if Putin refuses to agree to end the war in Ukraine . The summit aims to explore a ceasefire, potentially followed by a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy—provided the initial talks go well . European leaders have urged Trump not to make territorial concessions and reaffirmed Ukraine’s sovereignty and involvement in any peace decisions. (PC: AP)

A massive cloudburst struck Chositi (Chashoti) village in Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir, on August 14, 2025, unleashing a deadly flash flood along the Machail Mata pilgrimage route. At least 38 people have died, over 200 remain missing, and around 100 have been injured. The disaster occurred amid heavy rainfall, sweeping away homes, roads, and bridges. NDRF, SDRF, Army, paramilitary, and police teams are conducting large-scale rescue and relief operations. Authorities have suspended the pilgrimage, set up control rooms, and activated emergency helplines. The incident highlights the growing danger of climate change–driven extreme weather in the fragile Himalayan region. (PC: NDTV)

The Supreme Court on August 14, 2025, criticized a petition seeking a monitoring committee for returning captive elephants held at Vantara—calling it “completely vague.” A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and P B Varale observed that allegations were being made against Vantara without even naming it as a respondent. The Court instructed the petitioner, C. R. Jaya Sukin, to formally include Vantara in the case, then return. The plea also sought rescue and release of all wild animals and birds from the facility and release of elephants to their original owners. The matter is now scheduled for a hearing on August 25. 

The Supreme Court on August 14, 2025, ordered the Election Commission of India (ECI) to publicly release the list of approximately 65 lakh individuals removed from Bihar’s draft electoral rolls—along with explicit reasons for each deletion—on the official websites of district electoral officers . The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, also directed wide publicity via newspapers, Doordarshan, radio, and panchayat notice boards to ensure public access . Additionally, those affected may submit claims with Aadhaar as identity proof, with hearings set ahead of the August 22 next hearing.  

A cloudburst in Chositi village, Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, has killed at least 17 people, with several missing, as heavy rains continue across the region. The disaster struck the last motorable point on the route to the 9,500-feet-high Machail Mata temple during the annual yatra. Rescue teams have saved 65 people so far, but difficult terrain and debris hamper operations. Authorities, including Union Minister Jitendra Singh, CM Omar Abdullah, and Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, have ordered all possible assistance. Flash floods damaged a langar and blocked roads. Similar monsoon-triggered floods and landslides affect other northern states. (PC: X, HT)

Rajinikanth makes a powerful comeback in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Coolie, showcasing his signature swag, cigarette flips, and sharp walks that fans adore. The action-packed Tamil film also stars Nagarjuna as Simon, delivering a strong antagonist performance that matches Rajini’s energy. Soubin Shahir surprises as the dark, psychotic Dayal, while Shruti Haasan adds charm and emotional depth to the story. The screenplay keeps viewers engaged with exciting plot twists, though somewhat predictable. The climax features an unexpected cameo by Aamir Khan. Coolie is a must-watch for fans, offering high-octane action and a full display of Rajinikanth’s charisma. (PC: X)