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'What was my fault?': How India's exam paper leak ended young lives

'What was my fault?': How India's exam paper leak ended young lives

August 02, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A medical entrance exam in India was cancelled due to a leaked question paper, forcing nearly two million students to retake it. At least 21 students, including 17-year-old Kahaan Patel, died by suicide after the disruption, leading to widespread protests and the resignation of the education minister.

Key Facts

  • The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) was cancelled after a leak of the exam paper.
  • Around two million students had to sit the exam again because of the leak.
  • At least 21 students died by suicide, including Kahaan Patel, who was 17 years old.
  • Kahaan had moved cities with his family to study in a better school and wanted to become a doctor.
  • The deaths sparked protests in Delhi demanding accountability for the exam failures.
  • The education minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, resigned following the protests.
  • Kahaan was known for his academic success and diverse interests including music and reading.
  • His family and many others struggled to understand how the exam scandal led to such tragic outcomes.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
WATCH: Passengers rescued after seaplane crash

WATCH: Passengers rescued after seaplane crash

August 02, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

A seaplane crashed in the Bahamas, and all eight American passengers and two crew members were safely rescued. Emergency teams carried out a quick and successful rescue operation.

Key Facts

  • A seaplane crashed in the Bahamas.
  • There were ten people on board: eight passengers and two crew members.
  • All passengers and crew were safely rescued.
  • The victims are American citizens.
  • Emergency responders acted promptly to save those on the plane.
  • The rescue was described as heroic.
  • The incident took place on August 2, 2026.
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ABC News
Ariana Grande to take ‘a step back’ from public life due to ‘endless, ongoing scrutiny’

Ariana Grande to take ‘a step back’ from public life due to ‘endless, ongoing scrutiny’

August 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ariana Grande will take a break from public work after finishing her Eternal Sunshine Tour because of constant public scrutiny. She also withdrew from the 2027 London revival of the musical Sunday in the Park With George, and her role will be recast.

Key Facts

  • Ariana Grande plans to step back from public appearances after her current tour ends in September 2024.
  • She was scheduled to star in the 2027 London production of Sunday in the Park With George but pulled out.
  • The production company supports her decision and will announce a new cast for the show.
  • Grande has faced ongoing public scrutiny, including comments about her weight and appearance.
  • She has spoken openly about the stress of being constantly judged by the media.
  • Her Eternal Sunshine Tour will continue with multiple shows in the UK, ending on September 1, 2024.
  • Ariana Grande began her career in 2013 and has won three Grammy awards.
  • She is also known for acting roles on Nickelodeon and in the movie adaptation of Wicked.
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Guardian World
Artists, writers and scientists urge UK government to save Jodrell Bank Observatory

Artists, writers and scientists urge UK government to save Jodrell Bank Observatory

August 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

More than 100 artists, writers, and scientists have urged the UK government to save the Jodrell Bank Observatory, a key radio telescope facility, after funding cuts threatened its closure. The observatory plays a vital role in space research, tracking satellites, mapping the universe’s early years, and supporting thousands of researchers.

Key Facts

  • The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) plans to stop funding the e-Merlin radio telescope network at Jodrell Bank after March 2028.
  • The decision could lead to the closure of the observatory, risking 28 jobs and affecting nearly 3,000 researchers.
  • Jodrell Bank’s Lovell telescope tracked the Sputnik satellite launch in 1957 and is part of a global project mapping the universe’s first billion years.
  • The observatory is a UNESCO world heritage site and hosts the Square Kilometre Array Observatory’s new headquarters.
  • Funding cuts are part of wider UK science budget reductions, caused by high costs and budget pressure on the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
  • The letter asks UK government officials including Prime Minister Andy Burnham to find immediate funding to keep Jodrell Bank operating.
  • Other UK astronomy projects like the Rubin Observatory, Next-Generation Transit Survey, and Event Horizon Telescope are also facing significant funding cuts.
  • Supporters warn ending funding would harm UK astronomy’s global leadership and national pride.
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Guardian World
At least five Mohamed Al Fayed abuse survivors confirmed as human-trafficking victims

At least five Mohamed Al Fayed abuse survivors confirmed as human-trafficking victims

August 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

At least five survivors of abuse linked to Mohamed Al Fayed have been officially confirmed as victims of human trafficking by the UK Home Office. Investigations are ongoing into how Fayed and possibly others moved and controlled these women, with allegations involving abuse over several decades across multiple countries.

Key Facts

  • Mohamed Al Fayed, former owner of Harrods, is linked to at least five confirmed human trafficking victims.
  • Victims were trafficked both internationally and within the UK, often recruited under false pretenses.
  • Abuse cases date from the 1990s to after Harrods was sold in 2010.
  • The police operation investigating this is called Operation Cornpoppy, with four people questioned so far.
  • Over 400 allegations against Fayed include rape, sexual assault, trafficking, drugging, and forced abortions.
  • Victims say trafficking happened through various Fayed-owned businesses, including Harrods, yachts, aviation, hotels, and properties worldwide.
  • Fayed died in 2023 at age 94 without being charged.
  • The Independent Office for Police Conduct is reviewing complaints about the police handling of these cases from 2018 to 2024.
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Guardian World
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes' medical miracles

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes' medical miracles

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Southern France is known for 72 medical miracles officially recognized by the Catholic Church. Doctors at the Lourdes Office of Medical Observations study many reported cures to decide which can be explained by medicine and which might be miracles.

Key Facts

  • The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes has 72 medical miracles recognized by the Catholic Church.
  • The Lourdes Office of Medical Observations investigates reported cures to separate medical explanations from possible miracles.
  • Lourdes is a small town in southern France that attracts about 4 million visitors every year, more than pilgrimages to Mecca or Jerusalem.
  • Many sick and poor people travel to Lourdes seeking healing through prayer and the shrine’s natural spring water.
  • Sister Bernadette Moriau suffered from a serious nerve disorder causing paralysis but traveled to Lourdes after exhausting medical treatments.
  • Some visitors, like Kim Halpin, come hoping for healing from incurable illnesses but also value the spiritual experience.
  • Volunteers help many pilgrims, including those with severe disabilities like cerebral palsy.
  • Visitors often speak of finding inner peace and spiritual healing, even if physical cures do not happen.
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CBS News
Birding takes flight after peace deal between Colombia and guerrilla group | 60 Minutes

Birding takes flight after peace deal between Colombia and guerrilla group | 60 Minutes

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

In Colombia, many years of conflict involving the government, left-wing guerrillas, right-wing paramilitary groups, and drug traffickers unintentionally protected bird habitats. After a peace deal was made with one guerrilla group, bird watching and wildlife conservation have increased in the country.

Key Facts

  • Colombia has experienced decades of fighting between different armed groups and the government.
  • Left-wing guerrillas and right-wing paramilitary groups were involved in the conflict.
  • Drug traffickers also played a role in the violence.
  • These conflicts helped preserve many areas where birds live because they were avoided by others.
  • A recent peace agreement was signed between the government and one guerrilla group.
  • Following the peace deal, interest in bird watching and protecting wildlife has grown.
  • Colombia is known for its rich variety of bird species, making it a popular place for birders.
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CBS News
"This is not a soccer show": How "Ted Lasso" became a television phenomenon

"This is not a soccer show": How "Ted Lasso" became a television phenomenon

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The TV show "Ted Lasso" has become very popular. Jason Sudeikis and the show's team talked about how it became a hit and its uplifting message.

Key Facts

  • "Ted Lasso" is a television show that gained a large audience.
  • Jason Sudeikis stars in the show.
  • The cast and crew discussed the show on CBS News.
  • The show is known for its positive and hopeful message.
  • The discussion appeared on the CBS News app and website.
  • The show is about more than just soccer, as suggested by the title.
  • Norah O'Donnell interviewed the team behind "Ted Lasso."
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CBS News
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: Investigating medically unexplained cures | 60 Minutes

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: Investigating medically unexplained cures | 60 Minutes

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The news report covers the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in southern France, where some people say they have experienced unexplained medical healings. A group of well-known doctors and researchers studies these healing claims to understand them better.

Key Facts

  • The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is a religious site in southern France.
  • Many visitors claim to have been healed in ways that doctors cannot explain.
  • A team of experts, including doctors and researchers, investigates these claims.
  • The investigations aim to verify if the healings are genuine and understand how they happen.
  • These cases are unusual because they cannot be explained by current medical knowledge.
  • The story was reported on CBS News’ program 60 Minutes.
  • The report includes interviews and footage from the sanctuary and the investigation team.
  • The sanctuary attracts millions of visitors each year due to its reputation for healing.
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CBS News
Jason Sudeikis on making "Ted Lasso"

Jason Sudeikis on making "Ted Lasso"

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Jason Sudeikis first created the character Ted Lasso over 10 years ago as a funny ad for NBC Sports to promote English soccer in the U.S. The character later became the star of the popular Apple TV+ show "Ted Lasso," which has gained a big following. On 60 Minutes, Sudeikis showed the show's reporter around the fictional soccer club AFC Richmond and talked about the story behind the team.

Key Facts

  • Ted Lasso started as a humorous advertising campaign for NBC Sports.
  • The campaign promoted the English Premier League to American viewers.
  • Jason Sudeikis plays Ted Lasso and won an Emmy Award for the role.
  • The character later became a central figure in an Apple TV+ TV series called "Ted Lasso."
  • 60 Minutes featured a report from England where Sudeikis guided the reporter through the show's soccer team setting.
  • The series includes backstory on the fictional soccer club AFC Richmond.
  • The report aired on March 13, 2022, with video edits by CBS News staff.
  • The cast of "Ted Lasso" talked about their characters during the 60 Minutes segment.
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CBS News
The secret history of AFC Richmond

The secret history of AFC Richmond

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Jason Sudeikis showed CBS News the set of the TV show "Ted Lasso" in 2022. He talked about the made-up history behind the fictional soccer team, AFC Richmond.

Key Facts

  • Jason Sudeikis is the lead actor in "Ted Lasso."
  • He gave a tour of the show's set during a 60 Minutes segment.
  • The soccer team in the show is called AFC Richmond.
  • The history of AFC Richmond is a story created for the show.
  • The tour was featured on CBS News and the CBS News app.
  • "Ted Lasso" is a popular TV series about soccer and a coach.
  • The segment aimed to give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the show.
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CBS News
A visit to Lourdes, the site of mystery and medical miracles

A visit to Lourdes, the site of mystery and medical miracles

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France is known for medical miracles recognized by the Catholic Church. Over 164 years, 72 such miracles have been officially confirmed after detailed medical reviews of thousands of healing claims.

Key Facts

  • Lourdes has had over 70 medical miracles recognized by Catholic bishops since 1868.
  • About 4 million people visit Lourdes each year, many seeking healing.
  • The Lourdes Office of Medical Observations investigates healing claims with doctors and researchers.
  • To be recognized as a miracle, a cure must be sudden, complete, lasting, and without medical explanation.
  • As of 2022, Dr. Alessandro de Franciscis led the medical office, overseeing investigations until 2026.
  • Skeptics question early records, but recent investigations use strict and modern medical standards.
  • Independent researchers have found the Lourdes process credible and thorough.
  • Four people with recognized miracles remain healthy decades after their cures.
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CBS News
8/2/2026: Lourdes; The Improbable Tale of Ted Lasso; Birds of War

8/2/2026: Lourdes; The Improbable Tale of Ted Lasso; Birds of War

August 02, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The CBS News broadcast on August 2, 2026, covers three main stories. It reports on cases of unexplained medical recoveries, takes viewers behind the scenes of the TV show "Ted Lasso," and explores how birdwatchers have returned to an area after guerrilla fighters gave up their weapons.

Key Facts

  • The news investigates medical cases where patients recovered without clear scientific explanation.
  • "Ted Lasso," a popular TV show, is featured with a behind-the-scenes look at its production.
  • Birdwatching has increased in a region where guerrilla groups have disarmed, making the area safer.
  • The show illustrates the impact of peace on local wildlife enthusiasts.
  • CBS News presents these stories on its app and through web browsers like Chrome and Safari.
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CBS News
Sudan army drone attack on Darfur kills 35, rights group says

Sudan army drone attack on Darfur kills 35, rights group says

August 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

At least 35 people died and many were injured when Sudanese army drones attacked a traditional court in the village of Garra al-Zawaya in western Darfur. The attack hit civilians who were attending local court hearings amid ongoing fighting between Sudan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Key Facts

  • The drone strike happened at about 1 pm local time on Sunday in Garra al-Zawaya, North Darfur.
  • The court was a traditional place where local and tribal disputes are settled, held outdoors under a tree.
  • The village is controlled by the RSF, a paramilitary group involved in the war.
  • Four tribal leaders and two RSF commanders were among the dead.
  • The conflict began in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the RSF, who were once allies.
  • The RSF captured the town of el-Fasher in October 2023 after heavy fighting.
  • The UN has reported that violence related to the RSF’s actions in Darfur shows signs of genocide.
  • More than 1,000 civilians have been killed by drone strikes this year, and millions have been displaced, causing a severe humanitarian crisis.
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Al Jazeera
Live: Trump says new talks with Iran to begin Monday after calling off strikes

Live: Trump says new talks with Iran to begin Monday after calling off strikes

August 02, 2026 • France24

Summary

President Donald Trump announced that the United States and Israel will pause any new military strikes on Iran while starting new talks to reach a deal. The goal is to quickly end Iran's nuclear ambitions through negotiation rather than conflict.

Key Facts

  • President Trump decided to delay new strikes against Iran to allow negotiations to begin on Monday.
  • The pause in attacks is a joint decision between the US and Israel.
  • Oil prices dropped sharply after Trump canceled planned attacks, reflecting market reactions.
  • Trump said Iran is aware of the consequences of attacks but prefers to seek a deal instead.
  • Israeli airstrikes continued in Gaza, killing at least 18 Palestinians, despite ceasefire talks.
  • Iran is working on a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz to bypass tensions.
  • US embassies warned their citizens to consider leaving the Middle East region due to ongoing risks.
  • Saudi Arabia urged Trump not to escalate military conflict with Iran.
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France24
Wildfires force mass evacuations across the Pacific Northwest

Wildfires force mass evacuations across the Pacific Northwest

August 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Large wildfires have burned over 250,000 acres in Washington state, leading to many people having to leave their homes near Spokane. The fires are also threatening communities in British Columbia, Canada, while the United Nations warns that global heat is getting worse.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires have burned more than 250,000 acres in Washington state.
  • The fires are spreading quickly near Spokane, causing many evacuations.
  • Nearby areas in British Columbia, Canada, are also at risk from the fires.
  • The United Nations has warned that global temperatures and heat waves are increasing.
  • The situation affects both the United States and Canada in the Pacific Northwest region.
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Al Jazeera
Trump frequently announces he's halting strikes in Iran. But they keep happening

Trump frequently announces he's halting strikes in Iran. But they keep happening

August 02, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump has repeatedly announced pauses or halts to planned U.S. strikes on Iran during ongoing conflict, often citing negotiations or ceasefires. However, shortly after these announcements, new attacks on Iran have continued, showing a pattern of stopping and restarting military actions over several months.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a halt to new planned attacks on Iran to allow for talks and reopening of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Since February, there have been multiple ceasefires and pauses in attacks announced by Trump, often tied to negotiation efforts.
  • Despite these pauses, U.S. strikes on Iran have resumed multiple times after ceasefires ended or talks broke down.
  • In April, a two-week ceasefire was declared but ended with U.S. strikes on Iranian tankers in May.
  • Trump has threatened major attacks on Iran but then called some off within hours due to breakthroughs in talks.
  • On June 17, Trump signed a preliminary agreement aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with a 60-day deadline for a final deal.
  • Strikes resumed in July following Iranian attacks on commercial ships, leading to daily U.S. military actions for nearly two weeks.
  • Iran remains alert and continues to respond to threats despite pauses announced by the U.S.
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PBS NewsHour
Local volunteers help rebuild destroyed Christian monastery in Lebanon

Local volunteers help rebuild destroyed Christian monastery in Lebanon

August 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Volunteers from different religious groups are working together to rebuild a Catholic monastery in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, Lebanon. The village, mostly home to Shia Muslims, was damaged during conflict and is now returning to recovery after Israeli forces left.

Key Facts

  • The Catholic monastery in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, Lebanon, was destroyed during fighting.
  • Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh is mostly a Shia Muslim village.
  • Israeli forces recently withdrew from the area.
  • Residents are coming back to their homes, which were damaged or destroyed.
  • Volunteers from various faiths are joining to rebuild the monastery.
  • This effort shows cooperation between different religious communities.
  • The village is part of Lebanon’s “pilot zones,” areas affected by conflict.
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Al Jazeera
Rupert Lowe urges Nigel Farage to work with Restore Britain

Rupert Lowe urges Nigel Farage to work with Restore Britain

August 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Rupert Lowe, leader of Restore Britain, has asked Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, to set aside past disagreements and work together on shared policies for the country’s benefit. Lowe proposed several strict immigration and social policy conditions for cooperation, while Farage emphasized building a broad coalition to win future elections.

Key Facts

  • Rupert Lowe leads Restore Britain and invited Nigel Farage of Reform UK to collaborate despite past disagreements.
  • Lowe suggested serious cooperation to oppose a left-wing political alliance.
  • Restore Britain’s candidate received 8.7% of the vote in a recent Greater Manchester mayoral byelection; Reform’s candidate got 21%.
  • Lowe was one of five new Reform MPs elected in the 2024 general election.
  • Lowe faced accusations of bullying and threats in 2025, which he denied.
  • Lowe’s cooperation terms include mass deportation of illegal migrants, bans on halal and kosher slaughter, and a referendum on the death penalty.
  • Farage is running in a byelection after resigning from Clacton; major parties are not running candidates against him.
  • Farage wants support from other parties and new voters but remains loyal to his current team.
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Guardian World
Neuroscientist Says Your Brain Needs One Thing Before You Can Sleep

Neuroscientist Says Your Brain Needs One Thing Before You Can Sleep

August 02, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A cognitive neuroscientist explains that the brain needs to feel safe to fall asleep. Stress and anxiety can keep the brain in a state of alertness, making it hard to relax and sleep well. Biological systems like the circadian rhythm and chemical signals also play a role in sleep regulation.

Key Facts

  • Sleep is controlled by the circadian rhythm (our internal 24-hour clock) and sleep-wake homeostasis (which tracks sleep need).
  • The circadian rhythm adjusts melatonin, a hormone that makes us sleepy, based on light and darkness.
  • Adenosine is a chemical that builds up during the day and makes us feel tired; caffeine blocks its effect to keep us awake.
  • Stress increases cortisol, which can interfere with normal sleep processes.
  • The brain struggles to sleep when it feels “unsafe,” due to past memories or worries about the future.
  • When stressed, the brain enters a "fight or flight" mode, increasing heart rate and brain activity, stopping sleep.
  • Good sleep requires the brain to slow down and shift from active thinking (beta waves) to relaxation (alpha waves).
  • Writing down things you are grateful for every night can help train the brain to feel safe and improve sleep.
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Newsweek