The Economic Times

Tragedy struck as Punjabi singer Baljeet Singh was discovered dead in his Ludhiana home. Neighbors, alerted by an unbearable smell, found his body in a severely decomposed state. The post-mortem revealed a heart attack as the cause of death. Authorities are probing the mysteries surrounding his passing, which happened days earlier, shedding light on pressing concerns regarding the safety of artists in North India's vibrant music scene.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has reinstated Gursher Singh Sandhu as Deputy Superintendent of Police. His dismissal stemmed from a controversial interview with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. The court found the state could not justify dispensing with a regular departmental inquiry. Sandhu's reinstatement includes all consequential benefits from the dismissal order. The state retains the right to continue the pending departmental inquiry against him.

'India continues to progress rapidly': PM Modi hails India's 7.8% GDP growth

India's first quarter GDP expansion reached 7.8 percent, exceeding market expectations. This growth reflects strong domestic economic activity and government reforms. Experts noted that sustained expansion requires higher private investment rates. Future growth depends on productivity, manufacturing, exports, and employment generation. Overall full-year growth outlook remains healthy despite expected moderation.

2027 Kawasaki Ninja 500 India Price: Check price, specifications, features, mileage, top speed and other key details: Kawasaki has officially unveiled its highly anticipated 2027 Ninja 500 model in India, showcasing an eye-catching updated Lime Green color. Motorcycle enthusiasts can now secure their ride by booking at authorized dealerships nationwide. Deliveries for this impressive model are set to begin in late August 2026, with a competitive pricing tag of Rs 5.76 lakh ex-showroom.

India has evacuated 158 citizens from Nepal following devastating floods. Specialized Indian forensics and tunnel rescue teams are assisting Nepal's ongoing operations. These teams are coordinating with Nepalese counterparts on technical and forensic matters. Humanitarian aid, including essential supplies, has also been delivered to Kathmandu. Rescue efforts continue despite challenging weather and access conditions.

India's economy demonstrated remarkable strength with a 7.8% growth rate in the June quarter, outpacing earlier estimates and navigating through global economic uncertainties. The surge was fueled by strong investments and robust manufacturing output. Furthermore, the services sector emerged as an essential driver of growth, hinting at a bright outlook as forecasts indicate ongoing economic resilience for the nation.

Gurgaon entrepreneur Jasveer Singh has questioned why sleeping until 9 am is often associated with laziness while waking at 5 am is praised in many Indian households. The Knot Dating co-founder argued that adequate sleep should matter more than the clock time of waking. His post triggered a debate over traditional early-rising advice, sleep habits and the meaning of discipline.

India has rejected an award from the World Bank's Court of Arbitration concerning the Indus Waters Treaty. The Ministry of External Affairs stated the court is illegally constituted and lacks jurisdiction over the matter. India categorically rejects the court's pronouncements and considers them to have no effect. The court had previously stated the treaty remains fully in force for India.

Tata Advanced Systems will manufacture Javelin anti-tank missiles in India. This collaboration follows a recent deal for initial missile acquisition by India. The initiative aims to strengthen India's defense industrial ecosystem and self-reliance. Local assembly will enhance operational readiness for the Indian Armed Forces. Component production will continue in the United States for final integration.

A video of an Indian woman practising Thiruvathira inside a Costco grocery store has sparked a debate over public behaviour and cultural expression. Originally posted on Instagram and later shared on X, the clip has crossed 1.7 million views. While some users criticised the dance as embarrassing and lacking civic sense, others defended her right to enjoy and showcase her culture.

Indian businesses are actively redesigning supply chains for resilience and growth. Supplier diversification and strategic inventory are key priorities for companies. Technology adoption and entry into new markets are also significant drivers. India's trade growth will be defined by resilience and connectivity. Businesses are positioning inventory closer to customers for better market access.

School assembly news headlines September 1: Get the latest updates across India, the world, sports and business. Todays key stories include the launch of Semicon 2.0, Delhis draft electoral roll, developments in Nepal, PM Modis diplomatic engagements, major US Open results, Indias womens Asia Cup win and new railway and uranium cooperation initiatives.

A Indian man posted a video on social media claiming that the US is no longer a favourable destination for Indian students and professionals amid uncertainty around immigration and employment policies. He urged prospective students to reconsider major financial investments, particularly in business programmes, and suggested alternatives including Germany, Switzerland and the UK. His comments on CPT, OPT and proposed fees also drew both support and criticism online.

In a significant move, India has turned down the arbitration decision related to the Indus Waters Treaty, asserting that the arbitration body formed by the World Bank was not legitimate. Staunchly opposing all previous rulings made by this body, India has never recognized its legal authority. Therefore, the nation's position of keeping the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance endures.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is redefining the narrative of Hindutva by promoting inclusivity, asserting that Muslims hold a rightful place in India. His international outreach focuses on themes of service and global unity, aimed at expanding the organizations influence. The RSS aims to reframe its vision of nationalism to embrace and celebrate religious diversity across the nation.

CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke urged the Bharatiya Janata Party to heed RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's counsel. Dipke stated the ruling party mistakenly believes it surpasses its parent organization. Bhagwat recently asserted that anyone disallowing Muslims in India is not Hindu. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's label for protesting youth was also criticized by Dipke.

The Supreme Court has denied journalist Tarun Tejpal's request to be exempted from surrendering. Following his conviction, he is required to surrender within a two-week timeframe. The Bombay High Court has imposed a ten-year rigorous imprisonment sentence on him, reversing a prior trial court acquittal. Tejpal's appeal contesting the conviction is set to be addressed in the future.

The Supreme Court advised Tamil Nadu to approach the Cauvery Water Management Authority. This follows Tamil Nadu's plea for Karnataka to release its due water share. The court noted Tamil Nadu had previously received more water than allocated. Tamil Nadu's counsel argued the authority had not directed proportionate water release. The matter will be heard again on August 31.

The Supreme Court has directed a committee to prioritize sexual assault complaints. This committee was established to investigate police violence during recent NEET protests. Senior advocate Shobha Gupta requested the court to take suo motu cognisance of these allegations. The High-Powered Enquiry Committee will examine these serious matters on a priority basis.

In a significant move, the Supreme Court has issued a notice relating to alleged discrepancies in the JPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Prompted by a Public Interest Litigation from a dedicated social worker, the petition calls for a thorough investigation into the evaluation process and raises concerns over a viral OMR answer sheet.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sharply criticized Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. He accused Gandhi of undermining India's traditions and democratic institutions. Adityanath referenced Gandhi's recent comments regarding the Manusmriti and past remarks on Lord Ram. The Chief Minister also questioned Gandhi's commitment to democracy and his role as opposition leader. He suggested Gandhi study ancient texts for a better understanding of Indian heritage.

Sunny Deol financial debt: Sunny Deol discussed his career struggles following the success of Gadar and Indian. He faced challenges finding suitable film subjects and directors. His directorial and production projects added to his financial difficulties. Despite debt, Deol expressed happiness and contentment with his life. Aamir Khan approached him for Batwara 1947 after Gadar 2's success.

Indian Army chief General Dhiraj Seth was conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army by President Ramchandra Paudel during his Nepal visit. The honour reflects a longstanding reciprocal military tradition between India and Nepal. Seth also held talks with Nepali Army chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel and discussed strengthening bilateral defence ties.

India and Armenia explored new avenues to bolster defence cooperation. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met with Armenia's Defence Minister Suren Papikyan. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen the defence partnership. Singh's visit aims to chart the course for future strategic cooperation. The meeting took place in Yerevan on Monday.

Rice grain contaminated with toxic metals: Rice cultivation faces contamination from toxic metals like arsenic and cadmium. Researchers propose altering soil chemistry to immobilize these harmful elements. This strategy aims to prevent metals from entering the edible rice grain. The approach targets low to moderate contamination levels in rice paddies.

Deep underground, bacteria may offer a new answer to uranium contamination. In a 130-day laboratory experiment, microbes fed with glycerol removed about 95% of dissolved uranium from contaminated mine water. The bacteria did more than trap the radioactive metal. They helped form FeU(V)O, a rare and unusually stable uranium compound. The finding could reshape research into uranium bioremediation, groundwater cleanup, and radioactive waste control.

India has facilitated fresh agricultural and processed food exports in July. These items found buyers in new overseas markets, widening the country's export palette. Shipments included mangoes, cherries, French fries, and turmeric to various nations. Exporters are stepping up efforts to diversify markets beyond traditional commodities.

India's reverence for snakes goes far beyond mythology. From Agumbe's king cobra research forests to Chennai's historic snake park, these seven destinations let you see these creatures in their actual element. This Nag Panchami, that might be the most fitting way to truly appreciate what the festival is about.

Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth received the Honorary General rank from Nepal's President. He arrived in Nepal for a four-day official visit at the invitation of his Nepalese counterpart. General Seth met with Nepalese Army officials to discuss strengthening bilateral military relations. He also met with the Indian Ambassador to further comprehensive relations between the two nations.

Indrajaal Autonomous Defense Systems and Sigma Advanced Systems have announced government orders worth approximately Rs 155 crore for the Indrajaal Ranger mobile counter-drone platform. The orders include Rs 145 crore for border-security deployment and around Rs 10 crore for urban police and VVIP security, expanding the system's intended use beyond fixed installations.

Yoga guru Ramdev said Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan would eventually reintegrate with India and urged patience. He also said no major religion was under threat in India, while calling for stronger national unity and opposing religious conversions.

India and Thailand are conducting Exercise Maitree from August 18 to August 31. This joint military exercise will enhance combined capabilities in counter-insurgency operations. Troops from the Indian Army and Royal Thai Army will participate in this event. The exercise focuses on operations in jungle and semi-urban environments.

A Haryana consumer commission has ordered Apple India to refund Rs 45,500 for a faulty iPhone 15. The device allegedly suffered repeated overheating and connectivity issues after purchase. Apple denied any manufacturing defect and attributed the problems to alleged unauthorised modifications to the handset. However, the commission found insufficient technical evidence to support Apple's claim. The company must also pay Rs 10,000 towards compensation for mental agony and harassment, and litigatio

Indian envoy Dinesh Trivedi emphasized dialogue for resolving bilateral challenges between neighbors. He expressed hope that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's India visit should occur much sooner. Uncertainty surrounds the proposed visit amid recent strains in bilateral ties. Officials have been in contact for weeks, seeking a propitious environment for the trip. The envoy aims for a golden period of relations between India and Bangladesh.

BGMI Lite Krafton: Battlegrounds Mobile India Lite is set to make its debut in India by the end of 2026, as confirmed by Krafton India. This streamlined version aims at catering to gamers using budget-friendly and older smartphones. Insights from PUBG Mobile Lite suggest exciting features for BGMI Lite. Stay tuned for more updates as the launch date approaches.

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch greeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indians on Independence Day, highlighting historical ties and offering Balochistans seaports for trade with India. He also proposed deeper economic cooperation involving Make in India and Balochistans mineral resources.

India faces Sri Lanka in a Test series with no current player knowing defeat. The team's bowling attack shows significant inexperience in Jasprit Bumrah's absence. Batting also appears shaky despite Shubman Gill's recovery and Yashasvi Jaiswal's hunger. This series is crucial for India's World Test Championship qualification hopes. Victory is not guaranteed, and defeat remains a distinct possibility.

Afghanistan Cricket Board will host India for a three-match T20I series. These matches are scheduled to take place in New Delhi during September. This confirmation casts doubt on India's proposed tour of Bangladesh. The Afghanistan Cricket Board has officially confirmed the dates and venues. An official public announcement regarding this event is still pending.

Youth unemployment in India remains a significant concern, with joblessness rates increasing. Female youth unemployment has sharply risen to 19.6 percent, indicating a growing disparity. The gender gap in labour force participation has also widened considerably across many states. Twelve states and union territories are reporting unemployment rates above the national average. Overall labour force participation has slipped to 40.7 percent as female engagement declines.

India's net direct tax collections surged 23.09 percent to 8.11 lakh crore as of August 10. Non-corporate tax collections rose significantly, reaching 5.07 lakh crore from 4.11 lakh crore a year ago. Corporate tax collections also climbed to 2.70 lakh crore, showing a 19.83 percent increase. Securities transaction tax collections delivered a strong performance, rising by 51 percent to 33,823.74 crore. Gross direct tax collections increased by 19.

India's External Affairs Ministry stated border issues reflect larger bilateral ties with China. The ministry cautioned that maintaining peace in border areas is of utmost importance. Reports of Chinese troops crossing the Line of Actual Control were addressed by officials. Beijing's criticism of naming places in Arunachal Pradesh was dismissed by the MEA. Sources denied any slow encroachment by China in Arunachal Pradesh.

Fitch Ratings kept India's sovereign credit rating at BBB- with a stable outlook. Robust growth and solid external finances balance fiscal weaknesses and energy shocks. India's macroeconomic stability and policy credibility could underpin continued robust growth. High deficits and debt constrain the rating, despite recent fiscal consolidation efforts. The agency forecasts 6.4% GDP growth for India over the medium term.

Astronomers observed a unique spectral line during an 1868 solar eclipse in India. This unexplained yellow line suggested an element unknown on Earth at that time. Norman Lockyer later named this element helium, derived from the Greek word for Sun. William Ramsay finally discovered helium on Earth by extracting it from a mineral. This discovery confirmed the element's existence, linking solar observations to terrestrial findings.

National headlines include Parliament clashes and a resolution on NEET. International news features earthquake fatalities and drone strikes in Russia. Sports updates highlight World Cup qualification and player arrests. Netaji Bose's ashes and Netaji Bose's ashes are subjects of a Supreme Court plea. These updates inform students about current global and national events.

Bangladesh's new government prioritizes a Bangladesh First foreign policy approach. This policy aims for constructive and mutually beneficial relationships with India. Dhaka seeks to address border management and water-sharing agreements professionally. The government desires respectful treatment and acknowledgement of its rights. Both nations should contribute to long-term regional stability and cooperation.