Heatwave & public safety: Tokyo zoo reports three lions dead from suspected heatstroke as East Asia swelters; South Korea declares a national disaster and ramps up support while heat-related illness counts climb. Health policy: Himachal Pradesh plans a new health insurance scheme for economically weaker families, aiming to cover up to Rs 10 lakh per family at a low premium and empanel major hospitals. Culture & diplomacy: India hosts BRICS culture ministers in Bhopal for a four-day meeting starting Aug 5, with a BRICS cultural festival and visits to heritage sites. Music & media: Spotify expands its AI remix tool by partnering with Merlin to bring more independent labels into the feature. Art & education: Meghana Bisineer becomes head of Carnegie Mellon’s School of Art, focusing on listening to students and faculty. Tech & society: India’s “Zero Temple” story spotlights the ancient zero symbol still visible at a Gwalior temple. Gaming culture: Final Fantasy 7 director Naoki Hamaguchi says physical game releases should continue, warning that the culture could disappear. Entertainment rollout: Prime Video’s Baywatch reboot deal brings the new series and back catalogue to Canada, India and Europe.