28 C 
India may face Chinas problem before it reaches the Dragon's wealth
Indias total fertility rate has fallen to 1.9, below replacement level, even as the working-age population remains dominant. The country may confront ageing at a lower income level than China did. Economists say the next two decades are critical for creating jobs, improving skills, expanding care infrastructure and raising productivity.
Digital Divide Keeps Women Out of India's Gig Economy
Despite near gender parity in basic bank account ownership, women in India remain significantly underrepresented in the growing platform economy due to gaps in digital financial capability and access to credit, according to a joint report by the International Labour Organization and National Council of Applied Economic Research.
One lakh jobs in next 6 months, declares Yogi
In a major announcement, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on August 25 that the state government will issue appointment letters to one lakh young people over the next six months.In his speech at an appointment letter distribution programme, the CM highlighted the govt's record on recruitment since 2017. He said more than 9.30 lakh government jobs had been provided in Uttar Pradesh over the past nine-and-a-half years. He claimed that none of these appointments had faced a challenge in the recruitment process.The CM was speaking at an event in Lucknow where appointment letters were handed over to 3,446 technical assistants and 126 market secretaries.The chief minister said the government would issue appointment letters to the next batch of one lakh candidates on a weekly basis during the coming six months. The announcement comes as employment and recruitment remain important political issues in the state.Also read | Gadkari says cant work much now after 30 yrs serviceAdityanath contrasted the current recruitment process with the system that existed before 2017, alleging that government vacancies were then affected by corruption, delays and political interference.He said recruitment advertisements were often followed by prolonged uncertainty, with candidates waiting for results and courts eventually intervening.According to the chief minister, the problem was not a lack of merit among young people but alleged corruption within recruitment bodies and government institutions. He said selecting candidates transparently and without discrimination allows the state to make better use of its human resources.Adityanath also linked the governments recruitment policy to its stated zero-tolerance approach towards crime and corruption.He said the administration would continue its action against organised networks involved in examination cheating and promised strict punishment for those running such operations.The chief minister also sought to address concerns over sugar availability in Uttar Pradesh. He said the state does not face a sugar shortage and has sufficient stocks to meet domestic requirements.Also read | Rajasthan HCs school reset: Junk food, screensUttar Pradesh consumes about four lakh tonnes of sugar a month, while the state currently has around 28 lakh tonnes in stock, Adityanath said. This, he added, amounts to roughly seven months of supply.He added that sugar mills are expected to resume operations from October 15, with the state projected to produce another 90 lakh tonnes of sugar.Adityanath said Uttar Pradesh has the production capacity to meet its own requirements and contribute to supplies for the wider country.The chief minister also pointed to overseas employment opportunities for workers from the state. He said countries including Japan, Germany and Israel were showing interest in recruiting young people from Uttar Pradesh.Adityanath said around 5,000 workers from the state had already gone to Israel for employment and were earning about Rs 1.5 lakh a month, with food and accommodation provided.He also used the occasion to compare the states current situation with conditions before 2017. Adityanath said Uttar Pradesh had previously faced problems involving migration, farmer distress, concerns over women's safety and the influence of criminal groups.The chief minister said the governments focus on recruitment, law and order and employment opportunities was aimed at changing that perception and creating more opportunities for the states young population.
No higher maintenance for bigger flats: Court
Axis Banks growth hunt to run from data to gold
Putin Offers More Fertilisers To India
Russia remains India's biggest fertiliser supplier, with imports rising nearly 40 per cent in 2025.
Prices had started to ease following the government's decision to allow duty-free imports of 1 mt of raw sugar and would weaken further over the next 7 to 10 days.
Trumps new H-1B fee may make life harder for grads
Alcobev major Diageo launches initiatives to rejuvenate Godavari, Yamuna river basins
The company has carried out a pilot project on regenerative agri practice with paddy and is set to expand the programme
Major turning point in India's digital payment journey: PM on 10 yrs of UPI
On completion of a decade of the Unified Payments Interface, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hailed it as a major turning point in India's digital payment journey and said its sheer scale is something every Indian must be proud of. The UPI was launched on August 25, 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) under the regulatory oversight of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The UPI has emerged as the backbone of India's digital payments ecosystem and a critical driver of financial inclusion. A decade ago, UPI was rolled out, marking a major turning point in India's digital payments journey. The sheer scale and reach of UPI are something every Indian must be proud of, Modi said in a post on X. The prime minister also asked people to share with him their UPI experience and how it impacted the life. Over a decade of operations, the UPI has demonstrated extraordinary scale and momentum in the country. Annual transaction volume expanded from just 1.78 crore in .
MSE: Building the capital markets of a Viksit Bharat
India's capital market is on the brink of a transformative shift as more investors engage actively. The Metropolitan Stock Exchange (MSE) is dedicated to cultivating a resilient financial framework, improving accessibility, and mitigating costs for emerging investors throughout the nation. With a versatile platform powered by advanced technology, this initiative aspires to broaden wealth generation opportunities and contribute to the countrys overall prosperity.
NU Vista receives 15.41 crore Show Cause Notice for input tax credit irregularities
Cement firm NU Vista received a 15.41 crore notice alleging input tax credit irregularities. The notice covers four fiscal years from 2020-21 to 2023-24. It proposes denying input tax credit for civil construction and canteen expenses. The company also faces proposed denial of output tax credit reduction from sales returns. NU Vista claims sufficient evidence and expects no major financial impact.
Puravankara inks joint development pact to develop 7.83-acre in south-east Bengaluru
Puravankara has signed a joint development agreement for a 7.83-acre residential project in southeast Bengaluru with an estimated 1,100-crore development value. The deal takes its FY27 Bengaluru land additions to nearly 50 acres, with potential GDV of 6,300 crore.
A Reddit user refused when his neighbour asked him to let his cousin buy an iPhone using his credit card on a 12-month EMI. Bengaluru CA Meenal Goel reacted to the incident, warning about the growing focus on monthly affordability. She pointed out that consumers often ask whether they can pay Rs 10,000 a month instead of whether they should spend Rs 1.2 lakh, highlighting the risks of EMI-driven spending.
Palm Conversations International India calls for broader understanding of palm oil
Says it goes beyond fat content, taking into account overall dietary intake, molecular structure, cooking behaviour and health outcomes
U.S. sanctions oil trader Wellbred over Iran links
The company had ties to Iranian oil shipping magnate Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, the U.S. Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control said
Stock Markets on Aug 25: Sensex, Nifty Dip Amid US-Iran Standoff
Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty experienced declines in early trade, influenced by the escalating US-Iran standoff and persistently high crude oil prices, with experts predicting increased volatility.
Jaishankar calls for urgent steps to address $50-billion India-Russia trade deficit
Minister pitches greater market access, removal of tariff/non-tariff barriers, stronger payment mechanisms
Govt removes restrictions on wheat exports; Robust export demand for Indian wheat from Bangladesh
India has lifted its four-year ban on wheat and wheat product exports. This move is expected to help temper rising global prices for the staple food. Small and medium enterprises can now export their brands overseas after the ban removal. Global wheat prices had risen due to geopolitical tensions and the Russia-Ukraine war. Increased demand from Bangladesh is anticipated following the export restrictions being eased.
Biocon arm gets Japan nod for cancer drug pegfilgrastim biosimilar
In a significant advancement, Biocon Biologics has gained marketing approval for its pegfilgrastim biosimilar in Japan. This vital cancer supportive care drug is designed to mitigate infection risks following chemotherapy. Developed as a rival to Neulasta, Sandoz KK will handle its exclusive promotion and distribution. This approval marks a pivotal step in expanding Biocon's biosimilar range and improving patient accessibility worldwide.
Annual UPI transaction volume rose from 1.78 crore in 2016-17 to more than 24,162 crore in 2025-26, an almost 13,000-fold increase, the Finance Ministry said in a statement
A company executive struggled with daily bloating and heartburn despite undergoing endoscopy, colonoscopy, imaging and laboratory tests that were reportedly normal. Dr Saurabh Sethi recommended five lifestyle changes: 38 grams of fibre from breakfast, coffee with food, three regular meals, a 10-minute walk after the largest meal and at least seven hours of sleep. Sethi said the symptoms resolved within 30 days.
Yash's eagerly awaited movie Toxic is set to hit theaters worldwide on August 26. Fans can already book their tickets in advance, with some premium options priced quite high. The Kannada version is leading in advance sales, outperforming its dubbed versions. Designed for a wide-ranging audience, the film is available in several languages.
'If Earnings Growth Returns, Capital Can Flow Back'
'India is vulnerable to the West Asia crisis in three ways: Energy costs, the business Indian companies conduct in the region, and remittances from the Indian diaspora.'
UPI completes 10 years: PM Modi calls it a major turning point for Indias digital payments
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday termed the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) a major turning point in the country's digital payments journey, as the interface completed 10 years since its launch.
India wanted red flags on chip packets and soda. Big Food fought back
Indias food regulator has dropped plans for colour-coded front-of-pack nutrition warnings after industry opposition, opting instead for simpler disclosures. The decision faces Supreme Court scrutiny amid concerns over obesity, high sugar, salt and fat levels, and differing product formulations across countries.
Gold and silver prices today, 25 August: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
India opens ports, airports to foreign-bound cargo impacted by Strait of Hormuz disruptions
India's ports will temporarily accept foreign-bound cargo diverted from the Strait of Hormuz. Under this measure, unloading, storage, and transshipment will be allowed until October 31, 2026. As per the rules, cargo must remain under customs control and is strictly for onward international transit.
IIT Delhi students stage sit-in over MSc student's death; classes suspended amid demands for probe
IIT Delhi students protested the death of a 31-year-old MSc Physics student on campus. They are demanding an independent inquiry into alleged administrative lapses and system reforms. Classes were suspended as thousands of students gathered for a sit-in protest seeking answers. Students allege the deceased faced difficulties with accommodation and academic support. The protest highlights concerns about student mental health and institutional support systems.
Sowing area in Marathwada down by 7% amid rainfall deficit
Marathwada's cultivation area has shrunk by nearly 3.5 lakh hectares this year. Rainfall is 20.3 percent below average, impacting the region's agriculture significantly. Cotton and sugarcane acreage have dropped sharply, while farmers shift crops. Soybean, maize, and sunflower cultivation has seen an increase. This shift reflects adaptation to current weather conditions and market demands.
Japan plans tax break to shake up low-return businesses
Japan's government is considering tax breaks on non-core business sales. This move aims to accelerate corporate restructuring and industry consolidation efforts. The plan would defer corporate tax on sale gains if proceeds are reinvested. This initiative is modeled on Germany's successful tax reforms from the early 2000s. Such changes could boost already active merger and acquisition deal activity in Japan.
Rising Airbnb listings are squeezing homeowners rental returns
Airbnb once emerged as an alternative to traditional long-term leasing, where typical rental yields are stuck at a mere 24%. But as listings surged across the country, that premium is beginning to disappear.
Economic growth likely slows to 7.1% in April-June quarter
Gross domestic product expanded 7.1% year-on-year in the April-June period, slowing from a better-than-expected 7.8% in the previous quarter
A 2.1 fitment factor under the 8th Pay Commission may look lower than the 7th CPCs 2.57, but the actual salary gain could still be higher. Employee body representative Manjeet Singh Patel explains how existing DA changes the calculation.
Zelenskyy honours Ukrainian soldiers in Kyiv as Ukraine marks 35th Independence Day celebrations
Trump puts $827,000 MAGA money behind Lindsey Grahams sister Darline in tense Senate runoff
In the fight for the South Carolina Republican Senate nomination, Senator Darline Graham has secured major support from MAGA Inc., while Representative Ralph Norman intensifies his campaign efforts. Norman voices his worries regarding the role of super PACs in shaping elections. With rallies and endorsements from President Donald Trump on her side, the winner of this runoff will square off against Annie Andrews, the Democratic candidate, in November.
Ankur Warikoo, who has been with his wife Ruchi for more than two decades, shared three lessons for building lasting relationships. He believes strong bonds grow through small, consistent acts of care rather than grand gestures. His advice is to show up during difficult moments, listen without always trying to fix problems and remember little details about loved ones. He also stressed that relationships can fade when people stop making an effort to stay connected.
8th Pay Commission Bengaluru meetings on 7-8 October: Deadlines, eligibility and key details
8th Pay Commission: Stakeholder consultations will be held in Bengaluru on 7-8 October. Eligible employee organizations must apply by 18 September with their Unique Memo ID.
India's economic growth likely slowed to 7.1% in April-June quarter: Poll
Risks to the outlook for Asia's third-largest economy, which imports more than 85 per cent of its oil, have increased as crude prices are above $90 a barrel and may climb higher
Malini Sharma, once known for her performance in Raaz, has transitioned away from the spotlight of Bollywood. She founded The Slow Local, a project devoted to culinary delights and community interactions. Relocating to the picturesque Sahyadri Hills, she embraced farming and the hospitality sector, welcoming visitors to her charming homestead. Read on!
ITAT Delhi has directed the Income Tax Department to issue a 5.31 lakh refund with interest to a taxpayer who claimed it in a return filed after a Section 148 notice. The tribunal held that the refund could not be denied merely because no original ITR was filed.
US attempt to strangle Iran's economy depends on China's cooperation
The US has spent 20 years promising 'crippling sanctions' on Iran. But the latest effort comes with a reverse twist, after military action failed to accomplish President Trump's goals
IT needs forward deployed leadership to navigate AI
A Gurgaon-based professional left an Rs 18 LPA IT job fearing AI-driven layoffs and took an Rs 10 LPA public-sector bank role in Chandigarh for greater stability. According to financial content creator Amit Arora, his friend now regrets the move after a year, citing lower pay, frustrating work culture and bureaucracy. Returning to IT could mean better earnings but also performance pressure, longer hours and renewed layoff concerns.
During a fun segment on a quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati, Amitabh Bachchan opened up about his tactical approach to avoid the occasional scolding from Jaya Bachchan. He ensures to communicate any late shoots to his family, deflecting their questions upon his late arrival. He also pitches in with housework when the staff is absent. Read on!
Credit report errors can lower your credit score and affect loan eligibility. Learn about common mistakes, how to identify inaccuracies and practical steps to dispute and correct incorrect credit information.
Egg and chicken prices ease as demand drops during Shravan period
However, egg prices are ruling higher than the year-ago period and will likely rise after the austere period gets over
Trump gets a win on mail-in voting, for now
With I, Nobody bringing a crime thriller to JioHotstar, Aakali Rajyam tackling unemployment on Aha Video, Kerala Underground exploring Malayalam hip-hop on ZEE5 and Pluto mixing science fiction with comedy on Saina Play, this week's South Indian OTT lineup covers very different genres. Read on to know when and where to watch them on OTT.
ETSA 2026: Elite jury to pick winners today
Blinkit to freeze new product launches
Bank holiday today, August 25: Are SBI, HDFC Bank, ICICI, Axis Bank closed on Tuesday, August 25 and Wednesday, August 26 for Onam and Milad-Un Nabi? Read to find out.
Indias chemicals sector targets $1 trillion by 2040
The government is seeking closer industry engagement and greater investment to strengthen manufacturing, innovation and long-term competitiveness across the chemicals sector, says Nadda
Indias non-fossil fuel power capacity crosses 300 GW, reaches 54% of total capacity
The milestone underscores Indias accelerating clean energy transition, with states such as Rajasthan playing a key role in expanding renewable infrastructure.
China says US sanctions on Iran will worsen tensions, hurt global economy
Beijings response comes as Washington steps up efforts to isolate Tehran economically, putting pressure on countries maintaining trade and financial ties
CapitaLand India Trust shifts debt to rupees as INR falls
As of June 2026, CLINT had approximately S$1.7 billion (roughly 8,820 crore) of borrowings. As of June, CLINT's assets under management stood at S$3.5 billion.
India raises $73 bn in forex inflows at record pace
India has mobilised $73 billion in foreign exchange inflows in less than 11 weeks, surpassing the scale and pace of the RBIs 2013 FCNR(B) swap scheme, the finance ministry said.
Govt eases loan licence requirement for 'outsourced' sterilisation of medical gear
Medical device makers now avoid loan licenses for outsourced sterilization services. This change simplifies business while industry leaders express concerns about new labeling rules. Printing sterilizer license numbers on device labels may hinder export flexibility and cause shipment delays. Manufacturers worry about losing the ability to choose the fastest available sterilization facility. The government also recognized the European Union for clinical investigation waivers.
Government tightens ethanol blend rules for OMCs
The government is contemplating the enforcement of mandatory chloride contamination limits for E20 petrol. Automakers have expressed worries over fuel quality and its potential effects on vehicle components. Presently, the chloride contamination thresholds are merely part of voluntary standards for ethanol-blended petrol. The Bureau of Indian Standards is striving to implement these requirements as mandatory. This initiative aims to elevate the quality standards of automotive fuels across the country.
India overtakes China in premium intercontinental demand: Lufthansa Exec
Lufthansa Group executive says tronger passenger and premium demand makes India an attractive market. India is now Lufthansa's second-largest intercontinental market after the United States. The airline is expanding capacity and adding premium services to India. A partnership with Air India could further shape Lufthansa's India strategy.
Rising multiple vehicle loans, bigger ticket sizes raise risk for lenders
Vehicle buyers are increasingly taking multiple loans, while the average amount borrowed is also rising, raising potential credit risks for lenders. The trend is most visible in commercial vehicle finance, where borrowers with two or more loans rose to 19.9% in June from 15.7% a year earlier.
Consumer giants' forex earnings shine despite gobal woes
Leading Indian manufacturers significantly increased exports in the last fiscal year. These companies collectively achieved net foreign exchange positive status. Export earnings grew by twenty-nine percent, reaching over one lakh crore rupees. Companies navigated import cost pressures through increased localization efforts. This strategic approach benefited margins and expanded market reach.
Suzlon plans 1,325 MW wind projects in Andhra Pradesh
Suzlon Group is set to launch an impressive 1,325 MW of wind energy projects in Andhra Pradesh, backed by a 10,000 crore investment. This venture promises to create about 4,000 direct and indirect jobs. With a vision to integrate an additional 5 GW of renewable energy projects by 2030, Suzlon is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable energy, having already invested 12,000 crore in the region since 2004.
DRL, Emcure get approval to make breakthrough HIV drug
India's drug regulator has cleared the path for local lenacapavir manufacturing. Two Indian pharmaceutical companies received waivers for local clinical trials. This move will improve access to the HIV prevention injection. Lenacapavir is a breakthrough twice-yearly injection for HIV prevention. Patient groups had urged the regulator to expedite this process.
Full flow FCNR deposits could hit $100 billion, beat estimates
Strong FCNR(B) deposit inflows have led analysts to raise their estimates for dollar mobilisation through the scheme. Jefferies now expects inflows to reach $90-100 billion by August 31, up from its earlier estimate of $70-80 billion.
Banks told to have stricter norms for eligibility of forensic auditors
Banks are tightening their forensic auditor empanelment framework. This action follows Enforcement Directorate observations against two audit firms. Two audit firms have been de-empanelled from the Agencies for Specialised Monitoring list. Lenders will review the framework for empanelling audit firms further. Public sector banks reported a record net profit in FY26.
L&T wins ultra-mega contract in West Asia worth over 15,000 crore
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has won an ultra-mega contract to execute a gas compression project for a major Gulf client, expanding its hydrocarbon infrastructure business. The company classifies orders above 15,000 crore as ultra-mega but did not disclose the contract value.
Industry insists on assured offtake for coal gasification
The energy industry seeks assured offtake commitments for coal gasification projects. Viability gap funding alone may not be enough to unlock investments in capital-intensive plants. Project developers require certainty on demand and pricing for gasification output. The government has rolled out a 37,500 crore incentive scheme for coal gasification. Industry also seeks freight support and land allocation near mines or ports.
Delhi HC raps I-T dept over Rs 53 crore Vodafone Idea refund delay
The Delhi High Court has ordered the income tax department to refund Vodafone Idea 53.09 crore. This refund is for assessment years 2003-04 and 2008-14, held for over two years. The court mandated the refund with interest by September 30, or additional interest will apply. This ruling highlights significant issues within the department regarding tax refunds. Vodafone Idea won a legal battle before the tribunal in June 2024.
Air passenger service prices surge 31.9% in Q1 FY27: Govt data
Service prices showed mixed trends in the first quarter of FY27. Airline and railway service prices saw notable increases during this period. Insurance and telecom services also recorded price hikes, while banking services declined. Securities transaction services experienced a price fall, reversing previous gains. Provisional data from the commerce ministry highlighted these varied movements.
ET Graphics: UPI@10 - A miracle story
UPI has completed a decade of transforming Indias digital payments landscape, with annual transactions soaring from 1.78 crore in 2016-17 to 24,162 crore in 2025-26.
An employee's experience has sparked a workplace debate after he said years of positive reviews and extra responsibilities were followed by a sudden PIP after he asked for a salary raise. The Reddit user said he had accepted a promotion without a pay hike, hoping to prove his value first, but months after requesting higher pay, management cited anonymous complaints and questioned his performance.
Marriott sees India becoming its second-largest market in 3-4 years
Marriott International expects India to become its second-largest global market within three to four years, overtaking China and Mexico, CEO Anthony Capuano told ET.
Jaggery prices jump 25% in fortnight, sweets set to cost more
Jaggery prices have increased significantly in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh recently. This surge is driven by a government crackdown and expected lower sugarcane availability. Consumers face higher costs for sweets as festive season approaches. Prices are anticipated to remain firm until new production begins in October. Elevated jaggery prices could persist through 2027, impacting sweet makers and consumers.
Indias near-term AI advantage lies in using AI to transform businesses rather than competing immediately with the US and China on computing power and foundation models, Publicis Sapient CEO Nigel Vaz said.
India can benefit from global shifts driven by AI, geopolitical tensions, tariffs, energy security and changing capital flows, but it must build the ability to adapt quickly as industries are disrupted, Bain & Company chairman Manny Maceda said.
10 Baby Names Inspired By Rare Words That Describe Beautiful Emotions
10 Baby Names Inspired By Rare Words That Describe Beautiful Emotions
A new trend is emerging as retired electric vehicle batteries are repurposed to fuel artificial intelligence data centres. Retaining considerable capacity, these batteries offer a budget-friendly energy storage alternative. In Nevada, a pioneering initiative combines solar energy with numerous second-life battery systems, illustrating their effectiveness for intensive computing needs. As these projects grow, they will provide further insights into the durability of these energy solutions for major AI infrastructures.
Trump Meets China Wall: 'Angry' Beijing Blocks Trump's 'Crush Iran Economy' Plan
Washington is preparing what it calls an Economic D-Day against Irana sanctions campaign aimed not only at Tehran, but at the entire ecosystem keeping its oil economy alive. The package could target tankers, ports, ship registries, Irans so-called dark fleet, Chinese teapot refineries, exchange houses and crypto networks. The UAE, one of Irans key trading and financial corridors, has announced a suspension of trade and financial transactions with Tehran. But China is a very different challenge. Beijing is Irans biggest trading partner, while Chinese buyers account for around 90% of Irans crude oil exports. China does not need to openly defy Washington. It could simply continue buying Iranian oilthrough discounts, alternative shipping arrangements and financial channels less exposed to the US system. Beijing has also rejected sanctions and called for diplomacy, giving it political cover to slow enforcement. That leaves Trump with a difficult choice: tolerate Chinese purchases and weaken the credibility of Economic D-Dayor sanction Chinese companies and open another economic front with Beijing. The real threat to Trumps strategy may not be Iran but China keeping Tehrans economic artery open.
SIF AUM rose to 10,620 crore by March 2026, a more than five-fold increase in six months. With hybrid long-short strategies accounting for most SIF assets, experts say the category may suit affluent and experienced investors seeking greater flexibility and downside management.
Can chimpanzees, apes and bonobos remember friends they have not seen for decades? A Johns Hopkins University surprising study in 2023 found that chimpanzees and bonobos can recognize former groupmates after more than 25 years apart, revealing remarkable social memories that may be surprisingly similar to those of humans. The team worked with chimpanzees and bonobos at Edinburgh Zoo in Scotland, Planckendael Zoo in Belgium, and Kumamoto Sanctuary in Japan.
Two spiders, Arabella and Anita, flew on Skylab 3 to test web-building in space. Initially disoriented, the spiders eventually adapted to the weightless environment. Their webs in space differed from those constructed on Earth. Astronauts provided additional food and water, and even altered Arabella's web. A student's curiosity led to this significant experiment about biological adaptation.
Kunchacko Boban and Lijomol Joses Malayalam psychological crime thriller Unmadham is set to make its digital debut after its theatrical release earlier this year. Directed by Kiran Das and written by Shahi Kabir, the film follows a police officer who comes across an old and mysterious case involving the death of a young woman. What starts as a routine investigation soon takes a disturbing turn as the officer begins experiencing strange visions and struggles to separate reality from his own thoughts and memories.
Every country backing Iran should brace for US sanctions, warns Bessent
United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a new sanctions campaign targeting Iran. He warned all countries have a defined timeline to cease identified activities. President Donald Trump is contacting world leaders with specific requests to end interactions. Economic engagement of any kind with Iran will expose parties to American power. The United States will enforce a zero leakage approach to Iran sanctions.
A foreign bank account can create a major U.S. tax filing duty. The FBAR, or FinCEN Form 114, applies when qualifying foreign accounts exceed $10,000 combined at any time. U.S. citizens, residents, and certain entities may need to report them. For 2026, a non-willful FBAR violation can reach $16,536. Willful violations can reach $165,353 or 50% of the account balance.
Kit Harington will portray Gilderoy Lockhart in HBO's Harry Potter series. He replaces Nicholas Hoult due to scheduling conflicts with other projects. Harington previously voiced Lockhart for Audible's Harry Potter audiobooks. His character is a flamboyant Hogwarts professor known for his vanity. Harington's role offers a stark contrast to his Jon Snow portrayal.
Russian president Putin assures India of uninterrupted supply of energy, fertilisers
Russia has assured India of uninterrupted supplies of energy and fertilisers amid disruptions from the West Asia crisis, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Jaishankar and Russian officials also discussed expanding economic ties. Bilateral trade has nearly quadrupled from $13 billion in FY22 to almost $60 billion in FY26, but the trade imbalance has widened sharply from $6.6 billion to over $50 billion.
German Proverb of the Day: The laugh is always on the loser describes how people facing misfortune may also become targets of mockery. The proverb highlights the uncomfortable reality that mistakes, losses and embarrassing situations can attract ridicule from others. Through its ironic wording, it reflects on human behaviour while also inviting consideration of how people respond when someone else experiences a setback.
