February 8, 2026

Lawsuits Claim Meta, YouTube Harm Youth Mental Health Amid Debate on Social Media Addiction

Meta and YouTube face delayed legal battles over claims their platforms caused serious mental health issues in young users. Experts say social media addiction is a complex and debated term. Plaintiffs link usage to depression and suicide, while firms deny allegations.

February 8, 2026

Idukki Restricts Construction Permits in 13 Panchayats Without Revenue NOC

Idukki’s Local Self-Government Department has barred 13 panchayats from issuing construction permits without a No Objection Certificate from the Revenue Department, following a High Court order and scientific study marking the areas as ‘red zones.’

February 8, 2026

Bengaluru Eager for Bharat Taxi to End Surge Pricing and High Cab Commissions

Bengaluru commuters and cab drivers want the government-backed Bharat Taxi app soon. They hope it will stop surge pricing, cut commissions, and bring fair fares with transparency.

February 8, 2026

Kerala Launches Digi Kerala 2.0 to Boost Cyber Security and AI Awareness

Kerala's Digi Kerala 2.0 kicks off with focus on cyber security, AI awareness, and training on K-SMART app and DigiLocker. This phase builds on Kerala's status as India's first fully digitally literate State.

February 8, 2026

Washington Post Lays Off 300+ Journalists; GoFundMe Raises $500K to Help

Over 300 Washington Post journalists were laid off, sparking a huge GoFundMe campaign led by staff that raised more than $500,000 to help with costs. The layoffs hit a third of the newsroom, including the entire sports desk. Public and online reactions target owner Jeff Bezos for the cuts.

February 8, 2026

Islamabad's Trees Cut for Military and Infrastructure; Pollution Rises

Islamabad's green vision fades as thousands of trees are cut for military monuments and roads. Residents and NGOs warn about worsening pollution and demand better planning.

February 8, 2026

Israel Uses Gaza Reconstruction as 'Silent Transfer' Weapon, Experts Warn

Experts reveal Israel uses Gaza's rebuilding as a political tool by blocking construction materials, causing delays and demographic shifts. The 'Phoenix Plan' offers a local alternative amid the rubble.

February 8, 2026

Gold Prices Soar to $5,600 per Ounce; US Holds Most Gold Reserves Worldwide

Gold prices have jumped four times in 10 years, hitting $5,600 recently. Demand rises amid global uncertainty. The US leads with 8,133 tonnes of gold reserves.

February 8, 2026

YSRCP Denies Animal Fat in Tirumala Laddu, Slams NDA Leaders for False Claims

YSRCP's V. Srinivasa Rao says no animal fat found in Tirumala laddu. He accuses Naidu and NDA leaders of misleading the public and hurting Hindu sentiments.

February 8, 2026

UIDAI Completes Biometric Updates for 1 Crore School Children Across India

UIDAI has updated biometrics of over 1 crore school children in 83,000 schools. This is vital for Aadhaar use in exams, schemes and benefits. The initiative is free for kids aged 7-15 until September 2026.