Japan WWII Commemoration: Japan marked the 81st anniversary of its 1945 surrender with PM Sanae Takaichi pledging peace but avoiding the word “remorse,” while Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako joined the government memorial. War Shrine Diplomacy: Takaichi sent a ritual offering to Yasukuni and defence chief Shinjiro Koizumi visited, renewing tensions with China and South Korea. India Education Reform: After youth protests over exam leaks and recruitment scandals, India’s PM Modi announced free online coaching for competitive exams from the Red Fort. India Economy Outlook: SBI Research said India “was, is and will be” among the world’s fastest-growing economies, citing strong credit/deposit growth and improving monsoon conditions. India Trade & Youth Tech: Modi highlighted FTAs with nearly 40 nations and pledged AI skill training for 1 crore youth, aiming to boost startups and MSMEs. India Defence Push: Modi urged India to become a global defence supplier, focusing on drones, anti-drone systems and hypersonics. Bangladesh-India Talks: Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman’s first India visit is reportedly being discussed for Aug 20–25, linked to scheduling and diplomatic coordination. China Green Lifestyle: Xinhua profiled Beijing’s Liangma River revival and China’s broader ecological restoration push reshaping urban leisure. China Safety Concern: China reported a capsized boat in Yunnan with two dead and three missing, and separately renewed worries over abandoned Japanese chemical weapons in Jilin.