Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance on the first night of the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Harris took the stage to address the crowd, which responded with enthusiastic applause. In her speech, she paid tribute to President Joe Biden, thanking him for his "historic leadership" and lifelong service to the nation. Harris expressed deep gratitude, stating, "We are forever grateful to you." The crowd, energized by her remarks, chanted, "When we fight, we win." Harris's unexpected appearance set a powerful tone for the convention, highlighting the unity and determination of the Democratic Party as they head into the 2024 election cycle.

India has heightened alert at airports, ports, and borders due to the global rise in mpox (monkeypox) cases. Authorities, especially at borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan, have been instructed to carefully monitor incoming international passengers for signs of mpox. This follows global concerns about the virus's spread, although Indian health officials assess the risk of a large outbreak in the country as low. The government's move is a preventive measure aimed at early detection and containment to ensure the virus does not gain a foothold in India, reflecting the country’s proactive stance amid rising global cases.

Gaza has confirmed its first polio case in over 20 years, marking a severe public health crisis. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that a 10-month-old child was diagnosed with the virus, with other children showing similar symptoms. The outbreak is linked to the ongoing conflict, which has severely damaged water and sanitation systems. The highly contagious disease can lead to paralysis and death if not controlled. In response, the United Nations is urgently seeking a cease-fire or a pause in the conflict to allow for two mass vaccination campaigns, aiming to protect over 640,000 children from the virus's spread.

The Supreme Court is set to hear a case today related to the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College. The incident has triggered nationwide protests by the medical community. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud took suo motu cognisance of the case and scheduled it as a top priority for the court's session at 10:30 am. The case, titled "In Re: Alleged rape and murder incident of a trainee doctor in RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, and related issue," is significant as it coincides with the Calcutta High Court's ongoing investigation, which has already been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Two top women officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have taken charge of the investigation into the rape-murder case of a doctor in Kolkata. Sampat Meena, a 1994 batch IPS officer who previously handled the Hathras and Unnao rape cases, is leading the investigation team. She is joined by Seema Pahuja, an Additional Superintendent of Police known for securing convictions in high-profile cases, including the Gudiya case in Himachal Pradesh. The officers are working with a 25-member team to ensure justice is served.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that Israel has accepted a proposal aimed at resolving the impasse over a cease-fire and hostage release in Gaza, urging Hamas to do the same. The negotiations have intensified as tensions rise in the region, with fears of a broader conflict involving Iran and Hezbollah. After meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken emphasized the need for urgent action. He will continue negotiations in Egypt and Qatar, as mediators push to finalize the cease-fire and secure the release of hostages.

The Ukrainian government has ordered the evacuation of families with children from Pokrovsk, a key logistics hub in the Donetsk region, as Russian forces advance closer to the city. Donetsk Governor Vadym Filashkin emphasized the need for "compulsory" evacuation, noting that over 53,000 residents, including nearly 4,000 children, remain in the town. Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister also urged evacuations from Myrnograd and Selidove, stating that civilians should move to safer regions. As Ukraine continues its incursions into Russia, President Zelensky claimed success in the Kursk region, targeting strategic Russian bridges.

The fedora worn by Harrison Ford in the 1984 film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom sold for $630,000 (over ₹5 crores) at a Los Angeles auction. The hat, part of the late Dean Ferrandini's collection, was made by Herbert Johnson Hat Company in London. It became iconic in a scene where Indiana Jones escapes from a crashing plane. The auction also featured items like an imperial scout trooper helmet from Star Wars and a light-up wand from Harry Potter.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Israel, calling the current ceasefire talks a potential "last opportunity" for a truce and hostage swap in the Gaza conflict. After a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken reported that Israel supports the US ceasefire proposal. The proposal includes a six-week ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and increased humanitarian aid. However, Hamas criticized the proposal, and violence continues with recent attacks and airstrikes. The talks will resume in Cairo, but progress remains uncertain.

India confirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine on August 23, following a stop in Poland. This visit marks the first by an Indian PM to Ukraine. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized India's neutral stance, balancing ties with both Russia and Ukraine while advocating for peace through dialogue. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss cooperation. India has continued trade with Russia and supported Ukraine, maintaining a careful diplomatic balance amid ongoing conflict. The Prime Minister's trip reflects India's commitment to supporting peaceful resolutions.