LOCALIZATION
Mac mini vs Mac Studio: Why Apple’s new M5 Ultra machine is built for the AI era
Apple's new Mac Studio targets demanding artificial intelligence tasks locally. The M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips offer significant AI performance gains. These machines provide substantial unified memory for large language models. Multiple Mac Studios can link together for distributed AI inference power. Faster connections and storage complete the upgraded workstation capabilities.
School holiday tomorrow, August 26: With Eid, Raksha Bandhan and heavy rainfall all in the mix, is your school closed tomorrow? Check here
School holiday tomorrow, August 26: Schools nationwide are set to close for Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, with Kerala also observing Onam. Raksha Bandhan follows on August 28 in several northern states. Meanwhile, heavy rainfall across Delhi-NCR, Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar and the Northeast has triggered local, weather-related closures in some districts, though no nationwide rain holiday has been announced. Students should verify their specific state and school status.
Southwest Airlines flight attendant dies at 50 during Hawaii layover; police investigate
In a heartbreaking incident, Southwest Airlines flight attendant Jennifer Lupton passed away during her layover in Hawaii. Authorities in Waikiki are probing the details of her untimely demise and are actively interviewing potential witnesses while examining surveillance recordings. Southwest Airlines has confirmed the loss, offering their heartfelt support to family members and colleagues, and remains committed to assisting local law enforcement in their inquiries.
Bipasha Basu's co-actor vanished from Bollywood after 'Aapke Pyaar Mein' fame; 23 years later, she is growing her own vegetables & hosting guests at farmstay in Sahyadris
Malini Sharma, known for her role in Raaz, has embraced a new way of life. She now runs a farmstay and grows vegetables in the Sahyadri Hills. Sharma has also launched The Slow Local Diaries, where she shares glimpses of her life on the farm. Her venture, The Slow Local, focuses on local food, crafts and community experiences. She has also returned to the camera after 23 years away from acting.
Dino Morea's co-actress was seen in Raaz 23 years ago. Now, Malini Sharma lives on a farm, grows her own food and opens up about her quiet life in the Sahyadris hills
Malini Sharma, once known for her performance in Raaz, has transitioned away from the spotlight of Bollywood. She founded The Slow Local, a project devoted to culinary delights and community interactions. Relocating to the picturesque Sahyadri Hills, she embraced farming and the hospitality sector, welcoming visitors to her charming homestead. Read on!
ET World Leaders Forum: Agriculture, manufacturing, logistics & exports could offer major AI opportunities in India
India is becoming a priority market for Silicon Valley AI companies, which are increasingly building products specifically for Indian users, especially in multilingual and affordable applications. However, the country still faces shortages of frontier AI talent and risk capital, limiting its ability to build foundational AI models.
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Allied Blenders to produce Officer’s Choice Blue locally in Malaysia
Allied Blenders and Distillers Ltd will produce Officer's Choice Blue locally in Malaysia. This marks the company's first overseas local production initiative. The move supports ABDL's broader strategy for international footprint expansion. Malaysia's spirits segment is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. ABDL will continue evaluating similar asset-light partnerships globally.

European satellite firm ICEYE sets up India arm, eyes defence deals
European satellite firm ICEYE has launched a new Indian establishment for defense and security cooperation. This expansion targets India's significant defense and space market opportunities. ICEYE India will provide advanced Earth observation and intelligence capabilities to local agencies. The company also plans to manufacture satellites within India for domestic needs. This initiative will utilize local sourcing, suppliers, and engineering talent.

After $20 mn bet in fund, Japan's Resona Bank deepens ties with Tata Capital for India play
Resona Bank and Tata Capital have announced a new collaboration. This partnership aims to offer enhanced financing solutions for clients in India. Resona Bank also made a USD 20 million investment in Tata Capital Growth Fund III. The collaboration will leverage both firms' local market expertise and networks. Japanese businesses can now access India's growing economic opportunities more easily.

Facing protests from CJP and impending local polls, Rajasthan government unveils ₹12,500-crore school overhaul plan
Rajasthan's government has unveiled a significant ₹12,500-crore plan for school infrastructure upgrades. This three-year initiative aims to construct new buildings and expand classrooms across the state. Major repairs and sanitation facilities are also included in the comprehensive development blueprint. The government has already approved substantial funds for ongoing and future school projects.

Aditya Birla Group taps local lenders for Sprng Energy
Aditya Birla Group is in advanced talks with domestic lenders to raise about Rs 14,000 crore through a long-term loan syndication to fund its acquisition of Shell’s Indian renewable energy platform Sprng Energy. Axis Bank has underwritten the facility, while SBI and HDFC Bank are evaluating commitments for the remaining amount.

How India’s consumers are reshaping the future of food and business
India is a fast-growing consumer market and a source of innovation. Its food processing sector connects farmers with consumers seeking quality and convenience. Young consumers expect speed, transparency, and authenticity from brands. Technology accelerates innovation, enabling faster responses to local needs. Companies succeeding will be responsive, responsible, and human-centric.

School Holiday August 24: Are schools closed tomorrow due to heavy rain? Check latest state-wise updates
School Holiday Tomorrow: With the southwest monsoon actively delivering heavy rainfall on August 24, 2026, parents and students are advised to stay alert for any school closure announcements. Particularly in Odisha and Bihar, where significant rain is anticipated, local authorities will assess safety before making decisions. As of now, no school holidays have been officially declared, so keep an eye on local updates to ensure safety for everyone involved.

Mob protests move to demolish party office constructed on Waqf land in Kolkata's Tollygunge area
In a tense showdown, a Kolkata Municipal Corporation team attempted to demolish an office of a political party, claiming it was unlawfully constructed on Waqf land. Local women stood their ground, protesting defiantly against the bulldozers, which led to one member of the KMC being assaulted. The situation was defused with the help of the Rapid Action Force, which monitored the area closely.

Locals say rising Ganga, Yamuna levels shift Sangam point in Prayagraj; shops, businesses affected
Water levels of Ganga and Yamuna rivers are rising in Prayagraj. The Sangam area is shifting closer to the banks and low-lying regions. Local businesses and shops are facing disruptions due to the advancing river waters. This recurring seasonal phenomenon brings the Sangam nearer to the Hanuman Temple. Authorities monitor river levels and low-lying areas for potential precautionary measures.

NIA raids 10 locations in J-K in cross-border terror conspiracy case
The NIA conducted searches at ten locations across Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday. These searches are part of an ongoing investigation into a cross-border terror conspiracy. The case involves Pakistan-based handlers and local Over Ground Workers. Evidence was gathered to ascertain the roles of individuals in the support network. The investigation continues to identify all involved persons and their respective roles.

Indian national Sandeep Kumar dies at Roghun Hydropower Project site in Tajikistan
An Indian national, Sandeep Kumar, tragically died at the Roghun Hydropower Project site. The Indian Embassy in Dushanbe confirmed his demise occurred on August 21, 2026. Officials are coordinating closely with local authorities regarding the incident. The embassy is also providing support to the bereaved family in India. This unfortunate event has caused deep sadness among many.

School Thik Karo: Cross-FIRs filed after attack on CJP team in Jaipur
Jaipur's Rampura Kanwarpura village saw a clash during a CJP school inspection. Local villagers and CJP members have now filed police complaints against each other. The CJP team accused villagers of being BJP goons during the confrontation. Villagers claimed the CJP's presence caused fear and intimidated local residents. Authorities shifted students to new premises after the building was declared unsafe.

China steps up fiscal support as growth weakens, domestic demand falters
China is preparing new coordinated fiscal and financial measures for the second half of the year as economic growth weakens and domestic demand remains subdued. The programme includes interest subsidies and loan guarantees aimed at encouraging borrowing by businesses and consumers, while Beijing also seeks to accelerate local government spending.

ICE plans $500,000 insurance cover for local police helping with immigration arrests
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement is considering subsidising liability insurance for state and local police officers who help enforce federal immigration laws. The proposal would provide up to $500,000 in personal liability coverage, with officers eligible for annual reimbursements of up to $250, according to an ICE planning document cited by the Associated Press.

Medical devices industry needs to focus more on local value addition: Pharma Secy
The medical devices sector must increase local value addition and component manufacturing. Government officials are open to industry suggestions for PLI scheme beneficiaries. Many companies invested but could not claim incentives for various reasons. The government aims to incentivize component makers more than assembly operations. Increased domestic value addition is a key objective for the sector.

Locals push CJP team out of Rajasthan village; Abhijeet Dipke claims BJP 'goon' behind attack
A scuffle erupted when villagers and BJP workers allegedly blocked a CJP team's school inspection. The CJP team reported being attacked and pelted with stones by the group. Vehicles were damaged and CJP volunteers sustained injuries during the confrontation. Villagers claimed government funds were sanctioned for school repairs.

'Mute spectator': Dipke targets police as locals 'push' CJP team out of Rajasthan village
A CJP convenor criticized Rajasthan police after their team faced resistance during a school inspection. Villagers and BJP workers reportedly pushed CJP volunteers out of Rampura Kanwarpura village. The CJP team was inspecting government schools, one of which was declared unsafe. Classes were being held in a cattle enclosure near the unsafe school building. The CJP alleged police inaction while their volunteers were attacked.

Local funds' share rises in private credit market: EY report
Private credit investments were broadly similar to the second half of 2025 levels of $3.4 billion, with refinancing, holding-company funding and acquisition financing serving as key drivers of activity. "The growing share of domestic capital is one of the most significant developments in India's private credit market," Vishal Bansal, partner, debt and special situations, EY India, said.

Cross-border trade in local currencies reduces transaction costs: RBI deputy governor
Local currencies will increasingly drive cross-border trade and payments, reducing costs and improving efficiency. Technology will be leveraged across the entire customer transaction chain for digital origination and reporting. India's foreign exchange reserves have significantly grown, and domestic forex market turnover has doubled recently. The market faces challenges with skewed participation and unauthorized online trading platforms operating outside regulations.

Kalyan Jewellers plans to boost regional 'ATM' to take on local players
Kalyan Jewellers is expanding its strategy to include localized brands like Akshaya Thanga Maligai. This new brand will target value-conscious customers with traditional Tamil designs. The company is also focusing on its asset-light Franchisee-Owned, Company-Operated model for expansion. Technology integration and data-driven engagement are key priorities for future growth.

Australia passes law to levy tech giants that fail to pay for local news
The levy applies to Meta, Alphabet's Google, TikTok and Microsoft's LinkedIn, covering companies with a "significant" social media or search service in Australia, and local advertising revenue exceeding A$250 million ($178 million). Platforms can avoid the charge by reaching agreements with at least eight different publishersby the end of their reporting period. The value of those deals would be offset against their levy liability.

Volkswagen willing to cede majority control in India unit to local partner: Skoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer
Volkswagen Group is open to ceding majority control in its Indian operations to a local partner as Skoda Auto moves closer to signing an MoU within weeks. Skoda CEO Klaus Zellmer said majority ownership “is not an issue”, stressing that a partnership could deliver greater scale, local decision-making and investment capacity.

India weighs sugar import duty cut to curb record local prices
In an effort to reign in soaring domestic sugar prices, India is thinking about lowering its sugar import duty. This response is geared toward boosting local supply ahead of the upcoming festival demand spike. Concerns regarding El Niño and subpar monsoon rains have cast shadows over sugarcane harvests. Ex-mill sugar prices in Maharashtra have hit record highs, pushing factories to begin sugarcane crushing ahead of schedule to ramp up availability.
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