The Economic Times

A special NIA court in Jammu ordered jail authorities to avoid unnecessary handcuffing of Shabir Ahmad Shah. The separatist leader cited advanced age and multiple health ailments causing him pain. Shah was arrested by the NIA in connection with a three-decade-old terror case. He had recently been released on bail after nearly seven years in other cases.

Jesuit colleges have long been a beacon of humane discipline and structured education, enriching young minds with both classical Latin and contemporary studies. Mothers were drawn to these institutions for their nurturing approach, while scholarly uncles appreciated the emphasis on solid principles and eloquence. Meanwhile, fathers recognized the value in the focus on governance principles and the promising career paths offered to students.

Jomo, the joy of missing out, offers a serene alternative to constant engagement. This practice allows individuals to cultivate their networks by strategically declining invitations. It represents an inverted opportunity cost, gaining peace by not spending time poorly. Psychologists view Jomo as mindfulness with a touch of playful defiance. Missing out is presented as the new way of keeping up with modern life.

Sugar prices have significantly increased due to production shortfalls and rising demand. Government data shows a substantial decline in expected sugar production for the season. International market trends and domestic supply issues also contribute to the current price situation. Ethanol diversion is a factor, but not the sole cause of the sugar price surge. Policymakers are addressing broader supply and inventory concerns with import decisions.

The Agniveer scheme, initiated in 2022, is under scrutiny as discussions continue about its framework. As the government assesses input from various services and state authorities, concerns arise over the four-year service limit, which may hinder soldiers' skill development and team integration. Proposals suggest extending service to eight years to foster better retention and, ultimately, improve the operational effectiveness and morale of the armed forces.

Assam's reduced eco-sensitive zone around Kaziranga National Park poses risks. A smaller zone could isolate the park, harming wildlife movement during monsoon floods. Removing NH-715 from regulation may increase dangerous traffic for animals. This proposal could negatively impact tourism revenues and ecosystem services. An expert committee must assess impacts and consult the public widely.

The passage argues that constant multitasking and busyness leave people mentally drained, making them long for holidays to recharge. It suggests a simpler solution: take a five-minute break every day to do absolutely nothing.

Nvidia plans server price increases due to a global chip shortage. This shortage is expected to persist beyond the year 2027. Chipmakers are prioritizing AI-grade chips, impacting consumer electronics production. Rising server costs will increase AI model training and deployment expenses. Businesses face higher capital needs for extensive AI infrastructure development.

US-India ties have improved at the working level, particularly in defence, with a new 10-year framework and Javelin missile sales, while Indian exports to the US rose 5.5% to nearly $60 billion in the first nine months of FY26. However, uncertainty remains over Washingtons broader India policy.

Weddings and cinema now feature extended durations, surprising many guests and viewers. Music also embraces longer tracks, rejecting shorter radio edits for full experiences. This preference for unabridged content reflects a desire for authenticity and status. The long way around has become the fashionable route in modern society. The uncut experience is now considered chic over efficient abridged versions.

India is a fast-growing consumer market and a source of innovation. Its food processing sector connects farmers with consumers seeking quality and convenience. Young consumers expect speed, transparency, and authenticity from brands. Technology accelerates innovation, enabling faster responses to local needs. Companies succeeding will be responsive, responsible, and human-centric.

PJ Harvey's 1993 song 'Yuri-G' uses Yuri Gagarin as a symbol of distance. The lyrics express a profound sense of personal desolation and lovesickness. Harvey's raw voice and grinding rhythm create an elemental and ritualistic intensity. Repetitive words build a cosmic longing, transforming desire into something mythic. The stripped-down music pulses with primal steadiness, delivering gorgeous power.

India lacks a transparent framework for public scrutiny of lobbying efforts. The recent debate over UPI merchant discount rates highlights this significant gap. A proposed Regulatory Advocacy and Market Access Act would mandate disclosure. This act aims to distinguish evidence from advocacy and domestic from foreign interests. Such transparency is crucial for informed policy-making and public trust.

Countries worldwide are lifting cannabis restrictions, leading to a global market resurgence. North America is spearheading this movement with significant buyouts in Europe. While many nations permit medicinal use, recreational access remains limited in most places. India, with its historical connection to cannabis, should now embrace this emerging global market. Indian firms can leverage Ayurveda's therapies for medical research and international expansion.

The central message is that work becomes more manageable when people focus on their responsibilities in the present, rather than being burdened by expectations about what lies ahead.

After fifty years, India is set to revamp the Integrated Child Development Services, focusing on transforming Anganwadi centres into modern support hubs to combat malnutrition. Yet, its vital to recognize that effective change will hinge on resolving worker concerns. Ensuring fair pay and improved working environments for Anganwadi workers is essential. Genuine reform must harmonize human resources and infrastructure to be successful.

BSEs upcoming inclusion in the Nifty 50 highlights how index changes can influence stock prices beyond simply reflecting investor preferences. BSE will replace Wipro from September 30, triggering an estimated $741 million in buying by Nifty 50 index funds and ETFs, while Wipro could see about $246 million in outflows.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will attend a two-day conference on national security. More than 850 officers from security forces will participate in this event. The ninth National Security Strategy Conference will combine physical and virtual modes. Officers will deliberate on contemporary matters and challenges facing national security. This important meeting begins on Monday and will address key issues.

PJ Harveys 1993 song Yuri-G turns longing and isolation into something cosmic, invoking astronaut Yuri Gagarin as a symbol of distance and transcendence. Harveys raw vocals, repetitive lyrics and stripped-down instrumentation give the track a hypnotic, almost ritualistic intensity.

The author argues that multitasking hinders effective task completion and quality. He suggests that focusing on one task at a time offers better results. Societal pressures currently favor parallel workstream management, which is detrimental. The future may necessitate a shift towards monotasking for human endeavors. Employers and educators should encourage and reward this focused approach.

India's journey to independence in 1947 initiated a challenging process of national unification. Despite gaining freedom, several former Portuguese and French colonies remained distinct entities for years. Additionally, many princely states pursued their own forms of independence, complicating the national formation. Vallabhbhai Patel emerged as a pivotal figure in integrating these varied regions, showcasing India's complex trajectory towards unity.

Anish Kapoor's London exhibition features visceral art and large-scale installations. The author visited the Venice Biennale, exploring diverse artistic expressions. Dayanita Singh's intimate archival works offered a profound contrast to Kapoor's scale. Lee Ufan presented quieter, contemplative pieces bridging painting and sculpture. The journey through art destinations often lingers longer than the art itself.

From fitness trackers that congratulate us for accidental steps to sleep monitors that disturb us to warn about screen time, technology has become an amusingly intrusive part of daily life. A playful look at smartwatches and modern parenting captures how gadgets meant to improve our lives can sometimes make them hilariously complicated.

The myth of the virtues of open-plan office remain captivating.

India has emerged as a major investment destination, but much of the value generated by foreign companies still flows overseas through dividends, royalties and intellectual property payments. The column argues that India must move beyond being a manufacturing and consumption base by building globally competitive brands, proprietary technology and Indian-owned intellectual property.

The return of Hilsa fish to the upper Ganga after decades marks a significant triumph in conservation. Government labs are successfully implementing artificial reproduction techniques. Enhanced habitats reflect a rise in biodiversity within the Ganga river system. To ensure sustained survival of these fish, it is essential to raise public awareness about overfishing. Furthermore, international collaboration is vital to tackle pollution and consumption challenges that threaten their existence.

India's research funding system suffers a staggering 3,000 crore in losses each year due to overlapping grants. Implementing a unified tracking system is crucial for monitoring all publicly funded research outputs. By utilising persistent identifiers and a robust digital framework, we can create an accessible record of research results, thus enhancing verification, discovery, and reuse while maximising the value of public investments.

The piece argues that suffering and lifes frustrations can serve as catalysts for spiritual growth, because constant pleasure would leave little reason to seek deeper meaning or inner peace.

In India, the politicization of public spaces has a profound effect on educational institutions, turning them into arenas of ideological conflict. By removing politics from these spaces, we can encourage open discussions and innovative thinking. Maintaining neutral environments is crucial for developing effective problem-solvers rather than engaging in mere debates, highlighting the importance of creating spaces that promote civic engagement and growth.

The IFDA has backing from 131 WTO members, including 94 developing countries, and focuses on reducing red tape and making it easier to attract foreign investment. With Trkiye and South Africa dropping their opposition, the article says India is now the main obstacle to bringing the agreement into the WTO rulebook.

Companies often confuse lofty corporate slogans with meaningful ambition, but real progress comes from practical, achievable goals, the writer argues. While constructive aspirations focus on improving products, customers, costs and everyday operations, bakwaas aspirations thrive on buzzwords and grand promises.

Indias rare earth strategy must extend beyond magnet manufacturing to build a resilient, China-independent supply chain, EY-Parthenon partners argue. Rising demand from EVs, air conditioners and wind turbines makes domestic capacity urgent, but dependence on imported feedstock, motors and components remains. Greater mining, processing, private participation and patient capital are essential.

Bangladesh seeks a favorable environment for PM Tarique Rahman's upcoming visit to New Delhi. India's high commissioner emphasizes engagement and shared interests between the two nations. Rahman's 'Bangladesh First' approach aligns with assurances of a memorable visit from Narendra Modi. However, Dhaka appears hesitant, considering regional defense agreements and other foreign trips. India must adopt a long-term vision to strengthen bilateral ties and address key issues.

Chinas coffee boom is helping Luckin overtake Starbucks, with its low prices, app-based convenience and local flavours driving rapid growth. The shift reflects Chinas broader rise in consumer brands, though its soft power remains limited by digital isolation. Luckins global expansion could test whether a Chinese brand can become aspirational worldwide without directly promoting Chinese culture.

Companies pursue two types of aspirations, constructive and nonsensical. Constructive aspirations focus on practical improvements and achievable goals. Nonsensical aspirations involve grand pronouncements without concrete action plans. The article highlights the tendency for grander, nonsensical ideas to receive more attention. Wise companies prioritize practical, constructive efforts for genuine advancement.

Despite health warnings, cigarette production surged 24%, while wine consumption rose 25% among the young. Conversely, production of fruit juices, aerated beverages, maida, and palm oil declined as consumers shifted towards healthier alternatives. This indicates a complex interplay between health consciousness, rising costs, and evolving lifestyle preferences influencing consumption patterns across various product categories.

China's security focus is now restricting Indian business visas, impacting economic ties. India eased investment rules, and China tightened its security matrix afterward. Indian executives face visa hurdles, affecting on-site supplier visits for procurement needs. China's rare earth export controls have caused manufacturing supply bottlenecks for India. New Delhi must diplomatically address these visa issues to normalize trade relations.

A Chinese animated film, 'Niu Lai', has become a viral sensation due to its poor quality. Audiences are flocking to see the movie for its perceived flaws and crude graphics. This unexpected success mirrors India's past regional cinema, which pioneered the 'so bad it's good' genre. These cult flops could now be ripe for digital resurrection and inspiration. Indian kitsch could brand this revival as Parallel Cinema 2.0.

Government procurement must adapt to rapid technological change. Specifications should focus on performance and outcomes, not specific technologies. This approach fosters competition and ensures access to the best available innovations. Regularly updated and flexible frameworks are essential for government agencies. Such changes will strengthen domestic industry and drive technological advancement.

Einstein's famous equation and ancient Vedantic pairings suggest a unified reality. Shiv represents consciousness, and Shakti embodies creative energy and power. These concepts highlight how seemingly separate elements are deeply interconnected. E=mc demonstrated mass and energy are convertible, a physics-based revelation. While distinct, these ideas offer a distant echo of a shared intuition.

India faces a policy choice regarding capital gains tax on foreign portfolio investors. Removing this tax could significantly lower India's cost of capital. This change would attract more foreign investment and foster faster economic expansion. India currently taxes foreign investors on a source basis, unlike competitors. Abolishing this tax signals commitment to reducing capital costs for growth.

A Ganga Aarti on Londons Thames is more than a diaspora celebration. The editorial argues that taking the ritual beyond Varanasi can showcase Indias cultural grandeur across borders, reflecting the inclusive spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Like Durga Puja, Christmas and Jaipur Literature Festival, Ganga Aarti can become globally recognisable.

Nestled within the luxurious Capella Hanoi, the Hudson Rooms dazzles with its exceptional cuisine and renowned cocktails. The menu features a sumptuous selection of seafood, including exquisite French oysters and a grand seafood platter. For land-based fare, the steaks and rigatoni garner rave reviews. Each dish is a thoughtful blend of familiarity and sophistication. Guests are invited to indulge in fabulous cocktails and savor an unforgettable culinary journey.

India grapples with a persistent trade imbalance with China, a significant structural challenge. Embracing Chinese investment presents a strategic chance to recalibrate this economic dynamic. This strategy seeks to cultivate mutual dependence and fortify India's interests. As India diversifies its trading partners and investment avenues, pragmatic policies can draw Chinese capital while ensuring vital sectors remain protected.

A special NIA court in Jammu issued a non-bailable warrant for Mohammad Yaqoob. He is an operational commander for Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. Yaqoob is a designated terrorist involved in terror activities in Kashmir. He coordinated financial and logistical support for other LeT cadres. The warrant is in connection with an ongoing investigation into a terror network.

As the deadline for a resolution on the US-Iran nuclear deal has passed without any advancements, both countries remain firmly entrenched in their positions related to the Strait of Hormuz. Following the collapse of the interim agreement, tensions have de-escalated, yet Iran demands the lifting of blockades and reparative actions, whereas the US persists with its economic pressure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He called Vajpayee an extraordinary statesman with remarkable vision. Vajpayee dedicated his life to the service of the nation. His words and leadership inspired generations and strengthened the country. Focus on good governance and public welfare will continue to guide us.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded President Droupadi Murmu's Independence Day address. Her inspiring words encouraged renewed determination for a developed India. The President highlighted comprehensive reforms for public examinations. She emphasized transparency and security in the examination system. Joint efforts are needed to safeguard students' present and future.

Ukraine has intensified long-range drone and missile strikes deep inside Russia, targeting oil infrastructure, defence facilities and air defences as Kyiv seeks to shift the wars dynamics. The campaign has strengthened Zelenskyys standing with Trump but faces limits, including Russian counterattacks, air-defence shortages, costly operations and uncertainty over Putins willingness to negotiate.

A Syrian court sentenced ousted President Bashar Assad and two relatives to death. Atef Najib, convicted of overseeing a crackdown, received the death sentence. Bashar and Maher Assad fled to Russia after the government's fall. Najib was detained and faced trial for his role in the uprising. Victims welcomed the verdict, seeking justice for past suffering.