The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Dhamaal 4 has brought Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh and Jaaved Jaaferi together for another round of treasure-hunt chaos and comedy. The Indra Kumar directorial has been running in theatres since its July 10 release and has made its mark at the box office. Now, as the film completes its theatrical run, fans who missed it in cinemas are waiting to know when they can watch it from home.
At 83, Amitabh Bachchan continues to maintain a demanding work routine, recently revealing that his schedule stretched from 7 am to 7 am during the work on Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18. His words, commitments are commitments, highlight his long-standing belief in discipline, routine and staying dedicated to work at every stage of life.
Delhi has recorded a sharp increase in H1N1 influenza cases this season. Infections have risen to 1,344 from 229 during the corresponding period last year. Doctors caution against dismissing H1N1 as routine seasonal flu, as it can become serious. Vaccination and basic precautions remain key measures for reducing severe illness. Vulnerable groups should pay close attention to symptoms and seek timely medical care.
Bangladesh requested Sheikh Hasina's extradition from India during a meeting with the Indian High Commissioner. The meeting also covered important bilateral issues and strengthening relations between the two nations. Bangladesh expressed outrage over Hasina's media interaction in New Delhi, calling her a convicted genocider. The prime minister also sought the extradition of suspects in a student leader's murder case.
Quote of the day by Jesus Christ exhorts believers and readers alike to reconsider the relationship between what they have and what they are willing to share. If you want to be perfect is therefore not simply a statement about giving away possessions. It is an invitation to examine the heart, loosen the grip of material attachment and discover whether genuine abundance might be found in generosity.
An Air India A320 encountered severe technical issues, including three hydraulic failures, which led to a sudden loss of about 300 feet in altitude. Teams from France and Airbus are set to aid the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau in their inquiry. Some passengers and crew members sustained injuries during the incident, and results from pilot-in-command testing for psychoactive substances are still pending.
Two separate passenger incidents on US flights prompted emergency responses and law enforcement involvement. A United Airlines flight diverted to Milwaukee after a passenger allegedly made a threat. An Alaska Airlines flight returned to the gate in Miami due to disruptive passengers. The FAA has reported over 830 unruly passenger cases this year. Violators face significant civil penalties and potential criminal charges for their actions.
Dilip Buildcon has sold solar and transmission projects valued at Rs. 8,400 crore to Alpha Alternatives. This strategic divestment involves stakes in two special purpose vehicles, Mekhali Power Transmission and DBL Renewable. The transaction will be completed through a phased subscription and closing mechanism. Dilip Buildcon aims to recycle capital and strengthen its balance sheet with this deal.
The experts also highlighted that going forward, the government should decrease ethanol-blended fuel prices to compensate consumers for a drop in efficiency and expenditures incurred due to wear and tear of vehicle components.
Sony Pictures Networks India has unveiled its festive season content slate. This slate includes fiction, reality, movies, regional programming, and live sports. Sony LIV is positioned as the digital home for all SPNI offerings. The lineup features established shows and new homegrown concepts. This diverse content aims to connect with audiences across India.
Karnataka food safety officials inspected 60 three- and five-star Bengaluru hotels, seizing over 1,000 kg of allegedly unsafe, expired or mislabelled products. Notices were issued, some kitchens faced action, and samples from major international food chains were sent for testing.
HDFC Bank reduced its lending rates by five basis points across maturities. Bank of Baroda will increase its three-month lending rate by ten basis points. HDFC's new rates became effective from August seventh for various tenors. Bank of Baroda's revised rate will take effect from August twelfth. The banks are adjusting their marginal cost of funds based lending rates.
IFGE said India needs a diversified energy strategy comprising ethanol, electric vehicles, hybrids, CNG and hydrogen, particularly as nearly 300 million internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles remain on the country's roads.
8 baby names inspired by fantasy movie characters with magical stories
IT couple, Ankita and Kshitij Mishra embarked on an enchanting renovation project that turned their 700 sq feet Mumbai apartment into a whimsical retreat. Over 2 years, they crafted a blend of nostalgic French cottage aesthetics with creative flair, ensuring practicality and beauty coexist. Their home stands as an inspiring testament that even small spaces can burst with unique personality and charm.
Wockhardt has launched the Antibiotic Academy, an open scientific learning platform to strengthen clinical dialogue and evidence-based management of antimicrobial resistance in India. The initiative will connect clinicians, experts, hospitals, scientific societies and policymakers to promote appropriate antibiotic use.
Indonesian and Indian trade ministers met to boost bilateral trade and investment. They discussed accelerating cooperation and enhancing market access for mutual benefit. Both nations are reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement, aiming for 2026. Indonesia supports simpler, business-friendly outcomes and a 2026 target. The countries also explored a bilateral preferential trade agreement to complement existing pacts.
Have you ever wondered why some hotel windows open only a few centimetres? The feature becomes even more noticeable in rooms several floors above the ground. A closer look may reveal a lock, cable or restrictor preventing the window from moving any further. It may appear to be a fault, but the limited opening is usually intentional. So, why are hotel windows designed so differently from those in ordinary homes?
In July, OPEC made a remarkable recovery by increasing oil production to 19.85 million barrels per day. Gulf nations resumed supplies that were previously disrupted, while Iraq reported significant production gains. Iran also managed to increase its exports, though a U.S. blockade eventually hampered shipments. Meanwhile, Libya continued to pump oil without being affected by regional conflicts, marking a recovery from the lowest production levels in May since 2000.
Ethanol-blended diesel failed safety specifications, which sharply lowered its flash point. This technical issue effectively rules out wider use of the fuel. India seeks to expand ethanol use as a transport fuel and explore new outlets. The government is also examining ethanol as a potential cooking fuel alternative. This initiative aligns with promoting cleaner cooking fuel options.
Aretto targets over 100 retail touchpoints by fiscal 2027. The Indian kids' footwear brand is shifting to omnichannel and international markets. Physical stores reduce reliance on paid social media advertising. The company's patented sole addresses a global kids' footwear sizing problem. Aretto is also evaluating international markets for measured expansion.
A parliamentary committee seeks details on enhancing domestic bullet train component manufacturing. It also requested studies of successful high-speed rail networks globally. The committee reviewed government actions on previous recommendations for railway development. Future high-speed rail corridors announced in the Union Budget were also discussed. The ministry provided updates on station redevelopment and cargo terminal policies.
French and Airbus experts will assist India's investigation into an Air India flight incident. The Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi lost altitude during its journey. This incident occurred on August 4, with the aircraft landing safely. Several passengers and crew members sustained injuries during the flight. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is leading the ongoing probe.
Walking is a simple way to burn calories, but the surface you walk on can change how much energy your body uses. Research shows that walking on loose, dry sand can require more than twice the metabolic energy of walking on a hard surface at the same speed, while grass offers a more stable, moderate option. However, actual calorie burn depends on factors such as pace, terrain, body weight and walking duration.
Rust stains appearing in toilet bowls are frequently a result of high iron levels in the water supply. It is vital to tackle this elevated iron content to ensure water quality. Consistent cleaning and maintenance will help prevent minerals from hardening. Additionally, inspect for corroded plumbing and upgrade as needed to curb metal leaching. Implementing specialized filtration systems can effectively cleanse your water of excess minerals.
Inaugurating the programme, Nabin Kumar Roy, Chief General Manager, NABARD, highlighted the critical role of cooperative banks in financial inclusion and local economic development.
A CAG report shows Delhi's GSDP growth was slower than the national economy. Revenue receipts grew, driven by tax collections, while non-tax revenue declined. Government expenditure saw higher revenue spending, limiting capital investment opportunities. Subsidies, especially for power, increased significantly over the decade. Capital expenditure declined, impacting infrastructure and transport development.
A Cheyenne proverb expresses that wisdom fosters a gentle spirit akin to a dove. While awareness and vigilance may mirror a serpent, they don't necessitate aggressive behavior. Genuine strength stems from the ability to embrace peace rather than engage in conflict. Exhibiting restraint often reflects deeper confidence than overt displays of force. This age-old wisdom continues to guide us through today's complex challenges.
Scientists using mosquitoes to fight dengue: Singapore has embarked on an ambitious project, deploying Wolbachia-infused male mosquitoes to tackle the rise of dengue fever. This specific bacterium disrupts reproduction, reducing the potential for disease spread. Successful programs in Colombia, Indonesia, and Brazil echo promising results.
A significant earthquake struck Colombia's Choco province on Monday morning. The tremor caused injuries and considerable damage to buildings in Quibdo. Its epicenter was located near San Jose del Palmar, officials reported. The quake was felt across Bogota and even into Venezuela. Authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage.
Heavy rains have led to the closure of over 100 roads across Himachal Pradesh, disrupting traffic and impacting essential services. Officials reported 106 roads blocked, along with disruptions to water supply schemes and transformers. The state has also recorded significant rainfall and substantial financial losses since the monsoon began, with a wet spell predicted to continue.
The Caroline Bezengi's crew first reported difficulties on June 8 off the southern Yemeni port of Mukalla, two maritime security sources said, adding that initial assessments indicated that a blast occurred onboard.
Beneath the ancient soil of Romes Caelian Hill, just steps from the iconic Colosseum, archaeologists stumbled upon a stunning two-thousand-year-old secret. An excavation revealed an eight-room structure featuring delicate wall frescoes and a remarkable floor layout. For months, researchers believed they were uncovering an opulent residential palace for wealthy elites. However, a stunning marine-life floor panel changed the entire narrative.
Wifi signal hacks: Placing a coin on a Wi-Fi router does not improve internet connectivity. Experts state metal objects can block Wi-Fi waves and restrict ventilation. Proper router placement in a central, elevated location is recommended for better signal distribution. Keeping the router away from obstructions and other equipment also enhances performance. Restarting the router and upgrading older equipment are effective solutions.
President Donald Trump advocates for permanent daylight saving time across the United States. The House of Representatives has approved the Sunshine Protection Act for this change. However, the Senate has not yet voted on the measure, creating uncertainty. Opponents express concerns about darker winter mornings and children's safety. Until legislation passes, Americans will continue changing clocks twice annually.
Actor R Madhavan shared a simple guide for increased happiness in life. Morning sun exposure resets your entire day and improves overall well-being. Doctors confirm that outdoor time links to better mental health and sleep quality. Studies show increased daylight exposure lowers depression risk and improves mood. Spending time in sunshine provides vitamin D and helps regulate sleep patterns.
Organizers have upgraded the Indira Gandhi Stadium for the upcoming BWF World Championships. Extensive anti-bird measures and structural improvements were implemented to prevent past embarrassments. New systems and non-toxic gels will keep birds and insects away from the venue. Officials are also coordinating with local authorities to manage stray animals on campus. The Badminton World Federation expressed satisfaction with the completed venue preparations.
Project Plowshare aimed to revolutionize construction by utilizing nuclear explosions for large-scale projects such as canals and harbors. This revolutionary idea caught the imagination of scientists and engineers alike. However, environmental hazards and the risk of radioactive contamination overshadowed its potential. As conventional methods progressed and became more viable, the idea lost its financial attractiveness, leading to the program's termination in 1977, illustrating the constraints
Professor Deepak Dhar has been honored with the 2026 Dirac Medal for his remarkable contributions to the realm of statistical mechanics. Sharing this accolade with three other eminent scientists, Dhar's innovative work explores the applications of equilibrium statistical mechanics in diverse complex systems. His research on sandpile models unveils how simple interactions can lead to intricate behaviors, underscoring the profound influence of theoretical physics across various scientific arenas.
Consumer demand in India is expected to strengthen during the upcoming festive season. Companies face rising input costs and intense competition from quick-commerce platforms. Improving purchasing power supports this positive outlook for consumer spending. However, businesses must adapt to premiumization and digital shifts in consumption. Sustained growth hinges on margin protection and faster innovation strategies.
Russia is exploring a rail link to India through Central Asia and Iran as an alternative to maritime routes vulnerable to disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz and Bosphorus. The proposal comes amid expanding India-Russia energy and bilateral trade ties.
Rasmus Dall, a Danish research scientist at Spotify, resigned from the company after his request to work half-time was denied. Dall wanted to use the extra time to focus on building his own distillery, where he plans to make fruit and berry brandies from his orchard. His decision to leave his tech career and pursue the distillery has led to discussion online about flexible working, part-time jobs and work-life balance.
2026 Independence Day of India: India's 80th Independence Day will feature Vande Mataram sung from Red Fort ramparts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the ceremonial sequence, followed by flag unfurling. The celebrations will highlight youth power and their significant contributions. This focus on young citizens was planned well in advance. The Leader of the Opposition received a formal invitation to the national event.
Laughter isn't always a reaction to something funny. It can also help regulate social tension and ease uncomfortable moments. When someone is faced with a difficult question, answering requires careful cognitive processing, and emotional discomfort can make that process more challenging.
Coastal erosion in New Jersey is changing as Sandy Hook now faces damaging storm conditions twice as often as 1979. Researchers used 47 years of storm records, buried sediment layers, wave data and computer simulations to uncover the hidden pattern. The study found that high water and powerful waves increasingly cross an erosion threshold, even as North Beach continues growing. The finding offers new clues about shoreline change, storm damage and future coastal risks along New Jerseys vulnerable
Justin Greaves, Harry Brook, and Tanzid Hasan are July's ICC Player of the Month nominees. Greaves excelled with bat and ball for West Indies in Test matches. Brook was sensational for England in T20Is against India. Tanzid Hasan performed consistently for Bangladesh in white-ball series. These players earned nominations for their outstanding July performances.
A consortium, including Jeff Bezos and Eduardo Saverin, is nearing a deal for a stake in Liverpool FC. This investment group is reportedly led by Amit Bhatia, and a deal could be announced this week. The acquisition would value the Premier League club at approximately 4.4 billion. Fenway Sports Group, which bought Liverpool in 2010, has been exploring outside investment options.
Parliament has passed the Taxation and other Laws (Amendment) Bill. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed UPI will remain free for consumers. The legislation removes the linkage between payment systems and income tax. It also provides legal backing to modify zero-MDR frameworks for digital transactions. The bill aims to attract foreign capital and promote domestic manufacturing.
NOPD senior officer Brandon Coleman faces 350 charges in an alleged overtime fraud case after Louisiana State Police said he collected more than $111,000 in fraudulent overtime payments. There were discrepancies between the hours he reported and the hours investigators believe he actually worked. The allegations include false public records, payroll fraud, theft and malfeasance in office. Coleman's attorney has strongly denied the accusations, calling the charges absolutely baseless.

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