A young boy has gifted a handmade model of the Vikram lander to the head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S. Somanath. The boy, a neighbour of the ISRO chief, presented the model on behalf of all the neighbours, according to a social media post by ISRO scientist P.V. Venkitakrishnan. The gesture comes as ISRO receives widespread public support following recent successful missions like the Chandrayaan-3 moon landing and launch of Aditya-L1 solar observatory. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO scientists on the Aditya-1 launch. The gift highlights grassroots admiration for ISRO after high-profile Indian space achievements. (Image courtesy: @DrPVVenkitakri1 on X)

US President Joe Biden is set to make an early arrival in India, touching down two days ahead of the G20 summit. The White House has confirmed his visit, scheduled for September 7, with the G20 summit, hosted by India as its president, taking place on September 9 and 10 in New Delhi. President Biden's early arrival signals his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. During his extended stay, he will hold a bilateral meeting with PM Narendra Modi on September 8, paving the way for discussions on critical global issues at the G20 summit.

Ahead of the G20 summit in New Delhi, life-sized langur monkey cutouts have appeared across the city to deter rhesus monkeys from causing disruptions. Rhesus monkeys have been a persistent problem, darting into traffic and attacking pedestrians. The larger langur monkeys, identifiable by their black faces, are used by authorities to intimidate the smaller monkeys. Alongside the cutouts, workers mimic langur calls, creating the illusion of their presence. Food is provided to monkeys in forested areas to keep them within boundaries, with positive results reported. This isn't the first time New Delhi has used langurs to address monkey issues during major events, such as the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

ISRO chief S Somanath visited the Sri Chengalamma temple in Andhra Pradesh on Friday, a day before the Aditya-L1 solar mission launch, to offer prayers for its success. Somanath also spoke about ISRO's upcoming missions including Gaganyaan, GSLV, SSLV-D3 and PSLV. A team of ISRO scientists had earlier visited Tirupati temple with a model of the Aditya-L1 spacecraft seeking blessings. ISRO is making last-minute preparations for the launch of India's first solar observatory mission from Sriharikota on Saturday. The countdown is underway amidst anticipation for the launch of Aditya-L1 on the PSLV rocket to study the Sun's corona. (Video courtesy: ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shared the 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' anthem, calling it an inspiring tribute to the sacrifices of bravehearts for the nation. In a tweet, PM Modi said the anthem resonates deeply with every Indian's heart, reminding us of the sacrifices made for the beloved nation. He described the anthem as beautifully encapsulating the feelings of 140 crore Indians for the bravehearts who laid down their lives for the motherland. PM Modi called upon people to make the movement a success that will inspire coming generations. He signed off urging people to listen to the inspirational anthem Vande Mataram.

Just two days after India's Chandrayaan-3 landed on the Moon, Jammu businessman Rupesh Masson purchased lunar land in the 'Lake of Happiness' region certified on August 25. Masson, regional director of UCMAS, acquired the tract from The Lunar Registry in New York City. He stated that occupying space on the Moon reflects humanity's quest to see beyond and find deeper meaning. He added that approximately 675 celebrities and former US presidents own extraterrestrial holdings, seeking fulfilment. Masson's lunar land purchase underscores the growing fascination with the Moon and highlights the aspirations to explore new frontiers and escape Earth's realities.

The Centre has appointed Jaya Verma Sinha as Chairperson and CEO of the Railway Board, making her the first woman to lead the ministry in its 105-year history. An IRTS officer since 1986, Sinha has served across three railway zones. She will replace Anil Kumar Lahoti starting September 1 until retirement in 2024. Sinha was the public face of railways after the Balasore accident that killed 300. As Railway Advisor in Dhaka, she helped inaugurate the Kolkata-Dhaka Maitree Express. Her appointment breaks gender barriers in the male-dominated industry.

Despite short-term fluctuations in the prices of specific food items, Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman assured that the country's inflation will remain steady in the coming months. Food price inflation rose to 11.5% in July, the highest in over three and a half years, coinciding with the anticipation of India's weakest monsoon rains in eight years. However, Sitharaman emphasized robust economic growth, particularly during the festive season, anticipating increased consumer spending. She also discussed the role of regulatory tools in enhancing corporate governance while addressing the recent Hindenburg report on the Adani group's impact on stock volatility.

Erratic climate conditions have driven food prices up over 11% in India, a major player in global agri-trade. Tomato prices cooled as onions rose 25% since June, and pulses, essential for dal, are 20% pricier than in January. With a regular vegetarian meal's cost rising by a third in July alone, the Indian government intervened to curb inflation. Bans on wheat and non-basmati white rice exports were imposed, and a 40% duty on onions. There's potential for further measures. India's food inflation could affect global markets, particularly rice, sugar, and onions, impacting food security in vulnerable areas.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan's residence in Mumbai on Wednesday. Banerjee, who was in the city for an opposition meeting, fondly referred to Bachchan as 'Bharat Ratna', saying he is the highest honour for India. She received a warm welcome from Bachchan, his wife Jaya and the family. Banerjee expressed admiration for the Bachchans, calling them the number one family in India for their film contributions. She also extended invitations to Amitabh Bachchan for the Durga Puja festivities and Kolkata Film Festival. Last year, Banerjee had advocated for Bachchan to be awarded the Bharat Ratna at the film festival.