Top News Today (21 August): India, World, Economy & Odisha

India

1. District Collectors Get Power to Grant Citizenship Under CAA
Under the 2026 Citizenship Rules, District Collectors in several border states and Union Territories can process citizenship applications under the CAA. The provision covers eligible Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

2. Police Cannot Directly Investigate Fetal Sex Determination Cases: SC
The Supreme Court has ruled that police cannot independently investigate or register FIRs for offences involving fetal sex determination. Such cases must be handled by designated authorities under the PCPNDT Act, with police assistance allowed only when specifically requested.

3. NMC Proposes Unique ID and One Licence for Doctors
The National Medical Commission has proposed a central Unique Identification number for every doctor. The system would connect doctors to a National Medical Register and allow them to practise across India without obtaining separate state licences.

World

4. USCIRF Calls for Sanctions Against RSS Members
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom has urged Washington to consider targeted sanctions against RSS members, citing religious freedom concerns. The move comes ahead of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s planned US visit. India has rejected USCIRF’s assessments as biased.

5. US Plans Tougher Sanctions on Iran’s Economy
The United States has reaffirmed plans for tougher economic sanctions against Iran. The measures are expected to target industrial supply chains, financial institutions and energy networks, aiming to restrict Iran’s international trade and increase pressure over geopolitical and nuclear concerns.

Economy

6. Banks Charge ₹15 Plus GST After Free ATM Limit
Bank customers may have to pay ₹15 plus GST for additional ATM cash withdrawals after using their permitted free transactions. The charges are intended to cover ATM operating costs and encourage customers to use digital payment methods.

7. Ethanol Policy Pushes Sugar Prices Higher
Sugar prices are rising as more sugarcane juice and B-heavy molasses are being diverted toward ethanol production. The increased use of sugar for biofuel reduces the amount available for consumption, putting upward pressure on domestic sugar prices.

Odisha

8. Odisha Panchayats to Get Up to ₹3 Crore for Development
The Odisha government has announced development funds of up to ₹3 crore for individual Panchayats. The money will support roads, drinking water, rural infrastructure and community facilities, strengthening local development ahead of the upcoming Panchayat elections.