The Economic Times

Researchers from Rutgers University have uncovered genetic evidence demonstrating that dragonflies embark on remarkable long-distance migrations. These agile insects are capable of traversing thousands of miles over oceans, utilizing their wings to ride on weather currents for long durations. By aligning their journey with seasonal weather shifts, dragonflies seek out the essential moisture needed for reproduction. This groundbreaking find positions dragonflies as the world's premier long-distan

Eight Muslim-majority nations issued a joint declaration criticising Israel's Gaza military campaign. Their communique alleged that Israel's actions threaten Donald Trump's peace framework. The nations asserted Israel's conduct breaches international law and undermines peace efforts. They emphasised safeguarding civilians and medical facilities is mandatory under law. The foreign ministers supported a two-state framework and rejected land annexation measures.

Sydney Towle, a popular TikTok creator, has died at the age of twenty-six. She bravely documented her three-year fight against a rare bile duct cancer for followers. Towle underwent experimental immunotherapy treatment in her final weeks of life. Her family announced her passing through a video posted on her account. Millions of followers mourned her loss and celebrated her honest journey.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed balancing national loyalty and civilisational peace. He stressed supporting the government during times of conflict and external hostility. Bhagwat urged not to forget historical and cultural ties between peoples across borders. He stated that permanent hatred is not a solution for political friction. Humanity's ultimate goal remains reconciliation and enduring peace through dialogue.

Assam's Chief Minister has enacted a ban on street collections that lack authorization, aimed at flood relief. He mentioned that the government will now oversee all relief efforts comprehensively. Officials noted the rise in river water levels is due to heavy rainfall upstream rather than Bhutan's dam operations. Bhutanese officials confirmed a standard reservoir discharge on July 21st.

In 1919, an African-American woman inventor created a central heating system powered by gas laying foundation for the future systems. Alice H. Parker received a U.S. patent for a furnace using natural gas, multiple burners, heat exchange and separate air ducts. Her design allowed heat to reach different rooms and introduced an approach linked to modern central heating, HVAC, thermostats and zone heating.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma met Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the Foreign Contribution Regulation Amendment Bill. Christian representatives also submitted a joint memorandum expressing concerns about the proposed legislation. They requested the bill's withdrawal or further parliamentary scrutiny by a joint committee. The Home Minister assured that the bill would not be retrospective in its application. Opposition parties have denounced the bill as draconian and unconstitutional.

In the midst of the 1942 Quit India movement, Usha Mehta bravely created Congress Radio, a secret station that disseminated calls for resistance across the nation. The British forces relentlessly pursued the enigmatic voice behind the broadcasts for months. Operating under immense secrecy and quickness, Mehta and her team faced great risks, leading to her later receiving the esteemed Padma Vibhushan award for her valor.

Quote of the Day by Gregory Peck: Gregory Pecks quote, It just seems silly to me that something so right and simple has to be fought for at all, explores the importance of justice, fairness, and standing up for what is morally right. The quote suggests that values such as equality, kindness, and respect should be accepted naturally rather than requiring conflict or constant struggle. It reminds us that doing the right thing is often simple in principle, even when achieving it may require courage

Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of RSS, emphasized the importance of dedicating six percent of the national budget to education, arguing that it should not be viewed merely as a commercial venture. He underlined the necessity for community involvement and dedication in enhancing education quality.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined Viksit Bharat's vision for a developed nation. She stated that 2047 is an immediate national horizon for progress. India's destiny is to be prosperous without losing its civilisational character. Early governance choices and post-2014 reforms shaped the developmental journey. Modern progress will be anchored in India's rich civilisational heritage.

A Senate committee voted to hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress. This action stems from his refusal to answer questions during a hearing. Fauci invoked his Fifth Amendment right over one hundred times during the proceedings. Republicans are scrutinizing the government's pandemic response and virus origins. Democrats opposed the move, calling the investigation politically motivated.

Russia's crude and condensate output rose in July, exceeding nine million barrels daily. Strong oil exports and refinery recovery supported this production increase. However, future output levels are unlikely to be maintained in August. Drone attacks on refineries and tanker capacity issues could force production cuts. Russia plans to boost crude exports from western ports despite potential disruptions.

How Recycled Christmas Trees Are Saving Louisianas Coastline: Louisiana has lost over 2,000 square miles of coastline since the 1930s. But one simple experiment is working. Since 1990, thousands of recycled Christmas trees have been dropped into fragile marshes. These trees trap floating sediment, rebuild lost wetlands, and slow land loss. Decades later, old holiday trash has become Louisianas strongest natural defense against coastal erosion and severe storms.

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Tigers are returning to Kazakhstan's wilderness after a 70-year absence. An adult female Amur tiger named Umit was released into the Ile-Balkhash State Nature Reserve. This ambitious wildlife restoration project aims to re-establish the apex predator in its former habitat. Endangered prey species and anti-poaching measures have been implemented to support the tiger's return. Kazakhstan is working to ensure peaceful coexistence between tigers and local communities.

A trending social media post featured clothes hanging on the balconies of upscale high-rise apartments, igniting a lively debate about luxury living. Critics expressed concerns over the aesthetics of such displays, while defenders championed practicality in Indian homes. This conversation urged a reconsideration of whether premium housing should balance visual appeal with essential daily needs, highlighting the disconnect between design and everyday living.

The United Kingdom has imposed new sanctions targeting Russian banks and shadow fleet tankers. These measures aim to disrupt funding for Russia's ongoing military actions in Ukraine. Six Russian banks are sanctioned for supporting the war economy, while six tankers face penalties for evading sanctions. Four companies importing critical metals for military equipment are also included in the package. These actions underscore Britain's commitment to Ukraine's security and global stability.

India's finance minister announced plans to streamline customs tariffs, aiming for a significant overhaul by the fiscal year 2027-28. This move is expected to simplify trade procedures and potentially boost economic activity by making imports and exports more predictable and cost-effective for businesses across various sectors.

Maintaining its position, UEFA has not wavered in its FIFA boycott threat, prompted by ongoing distrust in President Gianni Infantino. The European football governing body highlighted that the prerequisites for lifting this threat are still unfulfilled. Despite FIFA's apology for its unsuccessful World Cup stake selling plan and commitments to avoid future issues, UEFA dismissed FIFA's assertions of support after a recent summit.

Brazil's Industry Minister urged India to jointly defend multilateralism and the WTO. He highlighted the need to counter unilateral tariff impositions by the United States. Brazil seeks to diversify export markets, with India being a key priority. Brazilian companies are also keen to invest in Indian energy and infrastructure projects. Cooperation on fertilizer supply and green ammonia for agriculture is also sought.

Mohan Bhagwat stated protest is a democratic dialogue tool for consensus building. He acknowledged Gen Z's genuine concerns and their desire for reasoned explanations. Bhagwat cautioned against social media misuse and emphasized individual responsibility for technology. He advocated for self-regulation and societal involvement in social media use. Increased public spending on education and entrepreneurship were also highlighted.

Prime Minister Modi and Israeli PM Netanyahu discussed bilateral progress and a new investment agreement. This agreement, effective Saturday, aims to boost investment and protect investors. It allows three years for local dispute resolution before international arbitration. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation across various sectors. They also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia and agreed to stay in touch.

India marked a significant milestone by successfully test-launching the Agni-IV missile from Chandipur, Odisha. This advanced two-stage missile, capable of covering distances up to 4,000 km, can carry both nuclear and conventional warheads. Since its original trial in 2010, multiple flight assessments have confirmed its operational readiness, as validated by the Strategic Forces Command, demonstrating the nations advancing missile technology.

At the same programme, the Chief Minister also disbursed Rs. 15.86 crore via DBT to 793 flood-affected schools across Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat and launched financial assistance of over Rs. 4.26 crore from the CMRF for 21,025 students in Sivasagar and Charaideo to purchase educational materials after the recent floods. Of the amount, Rs. 11 crore have been allocated to 550 schools of Sivasagar, Rs. 2.22 crore to 111 schools, Rs. 2.06 crore to 103 schools of Jorhat and Rs. 0.58 cr

Bihar signed MoUs worth Rs 51,600 crore with industrial groups on Thursday. These agreements span nuclear energy, steel, and textile sectors for growth. Global Renewable Advanced Clean Energy proposed a significant nuclear energy project. The government aims to boost industrial development and create employment opportunities. Preparations for Bihar Business Connect 2026 are also underway.

India's

Telecom operators faced a Rs 1.9 crore penalty for service quality breaches in FY26. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India imposed these financial disincentives after reviewing non-compliance explanations. BSNL received the highest penalty of Rs 57.5 lakh for flouting norms. Airtel and MTNL were fined Rs 48 lakh and Rs 37 lakh respectively. Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio also faced penalties for their service quality.

India's government has clarified trade pact negotiations with the US. No concessions were made regarding ethanol imports for fuel blending. Media reports suggesting policy changes are baseless and factually incorrect. India's ethanol blending program sources fuel exclusively from domestic producers. Therefore, large-scale US ethanol imports for blending are not planned.

The Trump administration plans to significantly alter Head Start program regulations. These proposed changes aim to increase local decision-making power for centers. Experts worry deregulation could weaken the program's established educational standards. The overhaul seeks to boost enrollment and potentially save billions of dollars. Public comments will be considered before final rules are implemented.

Bengaluru plans to develop three new botanical gardens to enhance urban green spaces. One park will be on Defence land, pending Union Ministry approval. The government aims to protect Bengaluru's green cover and improve city life quality. Initiatives are underway to restore Bengaluru's image as India's Garden City. A farmer-government partnership program will also increase the state's green cover.

Noah Khamanllah heads Don't Quit Ventures, a fund dedicated to breaking down barriers for founders in need of funding. With a track record of impressive unicorn investments and successful exits, he has transformed personal adversity and bias into a source of motivation. Khamanllah's current mission is to uplift entrepreneurs across Africa through enhanced access to capital, showcasing the efficacy of his distinctive investment strategy.

The groups edible oil arm, Emami Agrotech Ltd will set up the factory with the company having already expanded into staples such as atta, spices, besan, soya chunk and suji, and has just made a foray into western and traditional packaged snacks manufactured through its own and contract manufacturers located in multiple areas. The proposed factory will consolidate all manufacturing in one area.

Quote of the Day by Mark Twain: Mark Twain's quote highlights the importance of actively seeking knowledge. He believed that the ability to read is useless without its application. In today's world, reading offers a powerful way to grow and learn. This habit strengthens vocabulary and critical thinking skills significantly. Making small daily reading efforts leads to lasting personal development.

Quote of the Day by Sean Penn: Sean Penns quote, When I go to bed at night and I think of humanity at large, I think of all those things, reflects deep awareness, compassion, and concern for the challenges faced by people around the world. The quote suggests that thinking about humanity involves recognizing both the struggles and hopes of others, encouraging empathy, responsibility, and a broader understanding of our shared human experience.

Psychology reminds us that human emotions are rarely simple. Smiling during a difficult conversation doesn't automatically signal confidence or happiness.

Samvardhana Motherson International posted a 101.64% profit rise in the first quarter. Revenue from operations increased by 16.65% to Rs 35,243.77 crore last quarter. EBITDA grew 30.44% year-on-year, and the company operationalized three new plants. It also announced the acquisition of Shenzhen Autocruis to strengthen technological capabilities. The company's balance sheet remains strong with leverage at its lowest-ever level.

Rahul Gandhi launched an engaging 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, encouraging students to voice their concerns directly. This initiative comes after he met with students protesting against paper leaks. He also held Home Minister Amit Shah accountable for recent violence. Meanwhile, the BJP is ramping up its digital efforts to connect with the youth electorate.

CRPF suicides hit a five-year high of 59 in 2025, with constables most affected. Most deaths occurred while personnel were actively on duty, sources indicated. Home issues combined with service rigors are largely linked to these tragic incidents. Over 281 personnel took their lives between 2021 and July 2026. The force is implementing measures for troop physical and mental well-being.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming industries and changing employer demands. Companies now seek professionals combining AI expertise with business and domain knowledge. Universities are adapting by offering new industry-aligned AI programs globally. India is also witnessing this shift with institutions strengthening AI education. These programs prepare graduates for leadership in the evolving intelligence economy.

Suriya and Jyotika discussed their wellness routines and dietary habits during a recent interview. Jyotika prioritizes strength training and completes pull-ups, while Suriya focuses on functional training and flexibility. Their fitness trainer advised Jyotika that strength matters more than appearance. Mammootty's advice to Suriya emphasized portion control and adequate sleep for balance. The couple maintains healthy living through small, mindful daily habits.

West Bengal will distribute seventy lakh national flags for the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. The state joins the central initiative for the first time this year. Government buildings and heritage structures will be illuminated with flag colours. A Tiranga Rally is planned in Kolkata on August tenth. The campaign aims to promote patriotism and national unity among citizens.

France submitted its technical and commercial proposal for 114 Rafale fighter jets. Ninety-four aircraft will be manufactured in India with domestic industry partners. This acquisition aims to bolster the Indian Air Force's declining squadron strength. The deal is expected to generate significant business opportunities for Indian companies. India has already contracted 62 Rafale aircraft for its Air Force and Navy.

The West Bengal assembly will convene a special session on August 12. This session will consider Bills for delimiting Kolkata and Howrah municipal corporations. The proposed amendments seek to increase wards in Kolkata and Howrah. This move paves the way for upcoming civic polls in these corporations. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced this after a state cabinet meeting.