Karoline Leavitt has announced her decision to step down as White House Press Secretary, calling it a “bittersweet” move to focus on raising her two young children. Leavitt said she could not balance motherhood with the demanding role. President Donald Trump has asked her to continue serving as a top adviser outside the White House.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu chaired the 20th State Investment Promotion Board meeting, where investment proposals worth nearly ₹2.08 lakh crore were discussed for 37 projects. The proposals span industries, power, IT, tourism and food processing sectors. Several ministers and senior officials attended the meeting, highlighting the state’s focus on attracting investments.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has announced that Season 2 of ‘Jantar-Mantar’ will begin soon. Responding to questions and comments on Instagram about the next edition, Dipke said preparations are underway and assured followers that the new season is set to return shortly.

The government has decided to refer the FCRA Bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further scrutiny, paving the way for wider discussion and consultation. The move is being welcomed as a prudent step, with supporters arguing that contentious legislation deserves detailed examination, dialogue and broader stakeholder input before Parliament considers its passage.

Dulquer Salmaan’s much-awaited Onam release I’m Game is reportedly being postponed from its August 20 release date due to incomplete post-production work. The development has sparked discussions among fans and trade circles. However, there is no official confirmation from the makers yet, and an official clarification regarding the release is awaited.

Ravi Teja’s upcoming film Irumudi is currently undergoing censor formalities, with the movie gearing up for its theatrical release on August 21. The film has generated decent curiosity among fans, and the completion of censor proceedings marks another key step before the team brings the film to theatres.

The upcoming film starring Venkatesh, Kalyan Ram and Anil Ravipudi is currently being shot on the Guntur Kaaram set. Interestingly, August 14 marks Venkatesh’s completion of 40 years in the film industry. To celebrate the milestone, the makers are reportedly planning to unveil a special first look of Venkatesh on the occasion.

Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran has reportedly resigned and will not seek reappointment, ahead of the company’s AGM on August 18. His current tenure is set to end on February 27, 2027. The development has triggered market concerns, with Tata Group stocks coming under pressure following the announcement.

Oracle is reportedly preparing for another significant round of job cuts this month as it seeks to reduce costs amid massive investments in AI infrastructure. Managers have been asked to identify employees for potential layoffs, with some teams facing double digit reductions. The move follows a 21,000 employee workforce decline during fiscal 2026.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez are officially married after tying the knot in an intimate civil ceremony in Cascais, Portugal. The couple, who have been together for nearly a decade, celebrated the occasion privately with their five children. They confirmed the marriage through a joint social media post featuring their wedding rings.

The Allahabad High Court has rejected a government employee’s plea seeking maternity leave for her fourth child. The woman argued that she had not availed maternity leave for her earlier children. However, the court relied on the applicable rules and dismissed her petition, refusing to interfere with the authorities’ decision.

US President Donald Trump confirmed that his aircraft was changed during a stop in Turkey, with another plane used instead of Air Force One. Responding to questions, Trump said, “Guess there was a threat,” without providing further details. The unexpected switch has raised questions over the security concerns surrounding his travel.

India has intensified its fight against cybercrime by blocking more than 3,700 apps and flagging 32 lakh mule accounts linked to financial fraud. Authorities have also targeted suspicious SIM cards and devices while strengthening complaint handling. New mechanisms are being introduced to quickly freeze transactions and help victims recover stolen money.

Megastar Chiranjeevi may have once again given fans an unexpected update, this time about his upcoming film Mega 158 with director Bobby. At the success meet of Kanakaraju, where he attended as chief guest, Chiranjeevi reportedly revealed that the film is titled Kadiri. VIDEO

Jr NTR's office has announced that the actor will undergo shoulder surgery tomorrow at KIMS Hospitals in Hyderabad. The surgery follows a medical evaluation of his shoulder injury. His medical team is working towards a smooth recovery, with further updates expected after the procedure. Fans have wished him a speedy recovery.

Passport services across India have been disrupted due to server issues, leaving applicants stranded at offices in Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Tirupati. In Vijayawada, large numbers, including students, waited since morning. Applicants said they received no prior information about the technical issue. Officials later said today’s appointments would be rescheduled to another date.

Hyderabad traffic police will implement a one way system around KBR Park from August 18 as construction of underpasses begins. Lane markings, traffic signs and round the clock personnel have been arranged. Authorities will monitor traffic through CCTV and drones, while commuters are advised to plan routes in advance.

Veteran actor and writer Krishneswara Rao has passed away, leaving the Telugu film industry mourning his loss. He was widely recognised for his memorable roles and impeccable acting skills. Apart from acting, he also contributed as a writer, earning a special place in the hearts of Telugu audiences over the years.

The Centre earned ₹1.89 crore from the 2025 e auction of gifts and mementos received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat informed the Lok Sabha that proceeds from these auctions are used for public welfare and the Namami Gange programme.

Massachusetts has eliminated its gestational limit on abortion, allowing abortions at any point during pregnancy under state law. The move makes Massachusetts the 10th state, along with Washington, D.C., without a gestational restriction. The decision has reignited debate over abortion rights, access and regulation across the United States.