Reading news headlines during school assembly is a useful way for students to stay informed and build general knowledge. It also encourages critical thinking, improves vocabulary and develops English speaking skills. Here are today’s major headlines for Wednesday, August 26.

National News

Bihar students protest BPSC exams; clashes reported with police

Thousands of students protesting over BPSC examinations clashed with police in Patna after they were stopped from marching towards the chief minister’s residence.

Kharge, Rahul Gandhi ask PM Modi to revise caste census questionnaire
Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have urged the Centre to scrap the existing caste census questionnaire and prepare a new one after wider consultations.

Government approves transfer of DRDO missile technologies to Indian industry

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technologies for conventional missile systems to Indian defence companies for domestic production.

Congress attacks Centre over caste census process

The Congress has criticised the government’s handling of the caste census, calling the current process unacceptable and demanding changes.

Supreme Court directs Tarun Tejpal to surrender within two weeks

The Supreme Court has rejected journalist Tarun Tejpal’s plea for exemption and directed him to surrender within two weeks to undergo his sentence in the 2013 rape case.

India increases US LPG and LNG purchases amid West Asia supply disruption

India is increasing purchases of LPG and LNG from the United States as the West Asia conflict affects supplies from traditional Gulf sources.

Government considers random drug tests for all commercial pilots

The civil aviation ministry is considering random psychoactive substance testing for all commercial pilots throughout the year.

International News

India-China hold Special Representatives talks on border and ties

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks on the India-China boundary issue and ways to improve bilateral relations.

Imran Khan’s party resubmits contempt plea in Pakistan Supreme Court

Pakistan’s jailed former prime minister Imran Khan’s party has resubmitted a contempt petition after the Supreme Court raised objections to its earlier plea.

US sanctions four India-based companies over Iran oil trade

The United States has sanctioned four India-based companies accused of importing petroleum and petrochemical products from Iran.

Sports News

What went wrong for India at Hockey World Cup? Former stars break down the crisis

both India’s men’s and women’s national hockey teams crashed out of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, failing to reach the semifinals. These twin exits have laid bare a sport in deep crisis, triggering furious demands for accountability from former captains and icons of the game.