Parts of Wayanad district in Kerala, severely impacted by landslides on July 30, may be declared permanent "no habitation" zones due to the extensive damage to their topography. The Kerala government is considering this move, especially for the worst-hit villages of Punchirimattam, Chooralmala, and Mundakkai in Meppadi panchayat. Officials indicate that future human habitation in parts of Punchirimattam and Chooralmala (wards 10, 11, and 12) may be impossible. Survivors, many of whom are traumatized, are hesitant to return home, concerned about housing, compensation, and livelihoods as they face uncertainty in the aftermath of the disaster.

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, who resigned as AMMA president amid sexual assault allegations, spoke out for the first time today. He assured punishment for the guilty and requested the public not to target the entire industry. "Investigations are underway, please don't destroy the industry," Mohanlal said. His remarks came after the Hema Committee Report exposed sexual abuse cases in the Malayalam film industry. Mohanlal quit AMMA on August 27, citing moral responsibility. The actor's statement aims to shield the industry's reputation while ensuring justice for the victims.

A Russian Mi-8T helicopter with 22 people on board, including three crew members and 19 passengers, has gone missing in the far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula. The helicopter departed from a base near the Vachkazhets volcano but failed to check in at its scheduled time of 04:00 GMT, according to reports from the federal air transport agency, cited by Interfax and Reuters. Authorities are currently conducting a search operation. The incident has raised concerns, as communication with the helicopter was lost, and its whereabouts remain unknown. Further details are awaited as the search continues in the remote region.

Alexei Popyrin secured a significant victory at the US Open, defeating Novak Djokovic in the third round to reach the second week of a major tournament for the first time in 23 attempts. The 25-year-old Australian, seeded No. 28, won 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4, ending Djokovic's bid for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title. Popyrin, who recently won the Montreal Masters, capitalized on Djokovic's 13 double faults, a career-high in tour-level matches. Popyrin now advances to the fourth round, where he will face 20th seed Frances Tiafoe, who earlier defeated fellow American Ben Shelton in a five-set match.

The Southern African nation of Namibia is planning to kill 723 wild animals, including 83 elephants, to address a hunger crisis affecting 1.4 million people amidst the country's worst drought in a century. The environment ministry has deemed the measure necessary, aligning with the constitutional mandate to utilize natural resources for citizens' benefit. This approach is supported by the UN Environment Programme, which recognizes sustainable harvesting of wild animals as a viable food source. With over 30 million people across Southern Africa impacted by drought, Namibia's decision aims to provide relief to its citizens, highlighting the severe consequences of the regional drought crisis.

The ancient Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia is facing a new challenge as tourists recreate the popular "Temple Run" video game on site, sparking concerns among conservationists and historians. Visitors are filming themselves running, jumping, and crashing through the historic complex, mimicking the game's actions, and sharing the videos on social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. With some clips garnering over 2 million views, authorities are urging tourists to treat the UNESCO World Heritage Site with respect and dignity, citing concerns over potential damage and disrespect to the ancient structure and its cultural significance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for swift justice in cases involving crimes against women, ensuring their safety and security. Addressing a national conference of district judiciary, he praised the judiciary's role in upholding the Constitution and protecting fundamental rights. Modi highlighted the judiciary's key role during the Emergency period and commended its prioritization of national interests in matters of national security. He expressed trust in the Supreme Court and judiciary, citing the people's faith in these institutions. The PM's remarks aimed to strengthen the judiciary's role in delivering justice and ensuring national security.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) MI-17 chopper was forced to drop a snag-hit helicopter mid-air in Kedarnath on Saturday after it lost balance during towing. The unoccupied helicopter was released over an unpopulated area, ensuring no damage to life or property. The IAF stated that the MI-17 chopper was unable to hold the weight of the defective helicopter, leading to the emergency release. The crew safely executed the procedure, and an enquiry has been ordered to investigate the incident. The swift action by the IAF crew prevented any harm, and the incident is currently under review.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has appointed Dharmendra, a 1989-batch IAS officer, as the new Chief Secretary of Delhi, replacing Naresh Kumar. Dharmendra will take charge on September 1 or upon joining, following the end of Kumar's extension on August 31. Currently serving in Arunachal Pradesh, Dharmendra will lead Delhi's administrative affairs in his new role. The appointment was made with the approval of the Competent Authority, as stated in the ministry's order. Dharmendra's transfer and posting are effective from September 1 or the date of joining, whichever is later.

A Kolkata civic volunteer, Gangasagar Golde, was arrested on Saturday for allegedly ramming his motorcycle into a protester during a demonstration against the rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College & Hospital. The incident occurred on Friday evening when Golde, who was reportedly intoxicated, hit a student protester. This incident comes as another civic volunteer, Sanjay Roy, is already accused in the rape and murder case. Additionally, a complaint has been filed against traffic sergeant Tarakeswar Puri for engaging in a verbal altercation with protesters following the incident. An investigation is underway.