A Madurai-based company, Uno Aqua Care, has gone all out for the release of Rajinikanth’s “Coolie” by declaring a paid holiday on August 14, 2025 specifically so employees can enjoy the film’s premiere—no more fake sick leaves needed . The company also gifted free movie tickets to all staff and is marking “50 years of Rajinism” with charitable events such as donating food to orphanages and old-age homes, distributing sweets, and encouraging fans not to support piracy . This unique gesture captures the immense craze surrounding the superstar’s return to the big screen. (PC: Instagram)

U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a “land swap” as part of a peace deal—suggesting that both Ukraine and Russia would cede territory to each other to end the war. This framing comes ahead of his upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, which Trump describes as a “feel-out” session . Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has strongly rejected any such concessions, citing constitutional prohibitions and national sovereignty . European leaders echoed this stance, warning that negotiating Ukraine’s future without its involvement threatens peace and undermines international norms.

India is closely watching the upcoming meeting between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, as the US prepares to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports. The tariffs, announced in retaliation for India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, are set to take effect soon. New Delhi hopes the talks will lead to progress in resolving the Russia-Ukraine war, easing geopolitical tensions and trade pressures. Officials fear the duties could hit key export sectors, including textiles and engineering goods, and are exploring diplomatic channels to avert the economic blow while safeguarding energy security. (PC: News18)

Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh has welcomed the Supreme Court’s order to remove all stray dogs from Delhi-NCR within eight weeks. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi will implement the plan in phases, starting with rabies-infected and aggressive dogs. Singh said 20 operational shelters will house the animals, with NGO assistance and a new helpline for public reporting. The initiative also includes scaling up sterilisation and creating dog-free areas. The SC has barred releasing captured dogs back onto streets and warned of action against those obstructing the process. Several animal rights activists protesting at India Gate were detained by police. (PC: HT)

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas defended 20% Ethanol Blended Petrol (E20), rejecting concerns over reduced mileage and vehicle damage. It said E20 offers better acceleration, improved ride quality, and 30% lower carbon emissions compared to E10, while boosting farmers’ income and reducing suicides. Research by NITI Aayog, IOCL, ARAI, and SIAM found minimal efficiency drops in compatible vehicles. The ministry highlighted Brazil’s long-term ethanol use and noted only minor, inexpensive replacements may be needed in older vehicles. E20 supports India’s climate goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 65%, and contributes to energy security, environmental sustainability, and rural prosperity. (PC: News18)

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina for questioning on Wednesday in connection with the 1xBet illegal betting app case. The summons is part of a larger crackdown on betting platforms promoted by celebrities. Recently, actor Rana Daggubati appeared before the ED, while others, including Prakash Raj, Manchu Lakshmi, Nidhi Agarwal, and Srimukhi, are also under investigation. In May, Telangana Police booked 25 actors over alleged promotion of such platforms. The ED is examining financial trails of multiple celebrities and politicians, recalling similarities with the Mahdev online betting case involving former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel, who denies allegations. (PC: India Today)

Gaza City faced intense Israeli airstrikes on Zeitoun and Sabra, with the Hamas-run civil defence reporting massive destruction and unrecovered casualties. The UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and Japan warned of an “unfolding famine” and urged “immediate, permanent and concrete steps” to allow aid into Gaza. The UN says over 1,300 Palestinians have died near aid sites, mostly from Israeli fire. The WHO appealed for urgent medical supplies, calling the health situation “catastrophic.” Israel’s war cabinet has voted to occupy Gaza City, sparking UN condemnation. The Hamas-run health ministry reported 100 dead in 24 hours, including 31 at aid sites and five from malnutrition. (PC: BBC)

Irish President Michael D Higgins has strongly condemned the recent surge in violent attacks against the Indian community, calling them “despicable” and contrary to Ireland’s values. His statement followed the assault of a six-year-old Indian girl, one of several racist incidents reported in recent weeks. Higgins praised the Indian diaspora for its “immense contribution” to Irish society in healthcare, culture, business, and more, calling their presence a “source of enrichment.” He urged unity against ignorance and malice. Ireland’s Deputy PM Simon Harris also condemned the violence, as the Indian embassy issued advisories and helplines amid the rising hate crimes. (PC: HT)

India is expediting deliveries of US-made F404 engines for its Tejas Mk-1A fighters, with General Electric committing one engine per month and two monthly after October. Two engines have been received after delays, with a third due this month. Talks with the US include a follow-on order for 97 more Tejas Mk-1A jets and procurement of F414 engines for AMCA and Tejas Mk-2, to be made in India. The Ministry of Defence denied reports of pausing US defence deals after President Trump’s tariff hike, confirming ongoing discussions for P8I aircraft, MRFA fighters, and other procurements to address capability gaps. (PC: India Today)

Bollywood celebrities, including Janhvi Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Siddharth Anand, and John Abraham, have expressed their disappointment the Supreme Court’s directive to remove all stray dogs from Delhi-NCR streets and confine them in shelters. Calling it “inhumane” and a “death sentence,” stars argued the order ignores humane solutions like sterilization, vaccination, and adoption. Siddharth Anand termed it “genocide,” while Vir Das urged residents to adopt strays. John Abraham wrote to the Chief Justice, calling the directive inconsistent with Animal Birth Control Rules. The court cited rising rabies cases, directing shelters for 5,000 dogs in 6–8 weeks, warning strict action against obstruction. (PC: Deccan herald)