The Economic Times

State-level tax increases hurt demand for spirits, with growth at only 2%; beer volumes jump 17%, led by Maharashtra and Karnataka.

A senior PVR INOX executive was asked to leave in April after an internal probe. Allegations suggest kickbacks from developers involved in building cinema properties. These alleged payments reportedly occurred over several years and could total 200 crore. The investigation also aims to determine the full extent of the wrongdoing. The company's board has discussed these serious matters in recent meetings.

A preliminary probe found a hydraulic failure on a Phuket-Delhi flight. This incident caused altitude changes and triggered warnings, injuring 24 people. The pilot-in-command was sacked after testing positive for a psychoactive substance. Air India has begun voluntary pilot testing and maintains zero tolerance. Investigators are examining the Power Transfer Unit and maintenance records.

In an interview with Siddharth Kannan, Aamir Khans long-time friend opened up on how the superstar has maintained a cordial relationship with his ex-wives, Kiran Rao and Reena Dutta. He explained that while the marriages may have come to an end, there is no dearth of respect and good will.

Automaker Stellantis is discussing long-term industrial cooperation for its Maserati brand. Chinese firms Huawei and JAC Group are reportedly involved in these ongoing talks. This potential partnership aims to boost production rates at Italian manufacturing plants. Maserati, which faced losses last year, will present its own strategy soon. Stellantis stated discussions occur to offer customers better mobility choices.

Kia India is preparing electric, hybrid, and CNG models for the Indian market. The company acknowledges a huge burden in predicting customer powertrain preferences. Its new Sorento SUV launches with hybrid and diesel options. Kia plans further hybrid and electric vehicle introductions by 2030. Affordability will significantly influence electrified powertrain market penetration.

Hindustan Unilever plans to boost growth by increasing capital expenditure and focusing on key areas. The company will invest more in brands, distribution, and new product categories. Premiumization and expanding into new market spaces will drive future turnover. HUL aims to improve margins and operating efficiencies for reinvestment. This strategy targets increased consumption and a shift towards higher-value products.

Shalimar Corp has acquired a three-acre land parcel in Lucknow for 450 crore. This acquisition marks a significant deal within tier two cities. Developers are actively acquiring land in prime locations due to rising demand. Consumers now seek planned neighborhoods with quality construction and modern amenities. This trend indicates a new wave of real estate growth in tier two cities.

Although it may seem strange, some Gen Z guys are adopting the unique habit of not taking a shower before a date. According to a Times of India article, young men who engage in a practice known as pheromone maxxing think that skipping showers can boost their natural aroma and possibly increase their chances of finding love. They are experimenting with body odour rather than grooming, fashion, or scents.

Telecom operators oppose Trai's draft quality of service norms for 5G network slicing. They argue proposed resource utilization benchmarks should be entirely dropped by the regulator. Public advocacy groups, however, believe these benchmarks can be retained as safeguards. Operators state that actual customer impact is captured via speed and throughput metrics. They believe rigid cell-level thresholds create artificial network constraints and misallocate capital.

Dominika Patalas-Kalra, a Polish woman who has lived and travelled in India for 10 years, has challenged social media stereotypes about the country. In an Instagram video, she praised Indias transport, highways, metro systems, hotels, landscapes, stadiums and festivals, while arguing that negative images often attract more attention online. Her post has crossed 9 lakh views and drawn strong reactions.

Gujarat's innovative emissions trading system has achieved significant pollution reduction. This successful model is now being adopted by other Indian states and cities. Rio de Janeiro plans to implement a similar market-based pollution control mechanism. The Gujarat system demonstrates developing economies can balance growth and clean air. This environmental policy success earned Gujarat an Earthshot Prize finalist nomination.

Michael Jordan's legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance and a growth-oriented mindset. He firmly believed that hard work and unwavering faith are critical to realizing one's aspirations. His career, marked by relentless dedication and an insatiable competitive spirit, transformed him from an underestimated player into a global icon, demonstrating how this mindset shaped both his illustrious basketball career and successful ventures.

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany addressed Jamal Musiala's neurological condition. He stated that further seizures would not be a significant concern for the team. Experts are providing the best medical advice for the young attacking midfielder. The club is prepared to manage the situation effectively and support Musiala. He is expected to return to being a normal athlete in due course.

A society cannot develop just if the focus is on the economic aspects of society or economic growth. It has to be juxtaposed with the quality of life that is being provided to the people of India, the minister said, adding that government schemes on healthcare, housing, sanitation and power supply are aimed at economic growth as well as better quality of life for citizens.

A hand grenade exploded near Keisham Meghachandra Singh's residence in Thoubal district. The incident occurred at Yairipok Bishnunaha around 8:15 pm on Thursday evening. Police rushed to the scene and initiated a search operation in the surrounding area. The identity and motive of the perpetrator remain unknown at this time. Local women strongly condemned the unacceptable act of violence.

Govindas participating in Dahi Handi celebrations now have doubled accidental hospitalisation cover. This increased protection comes with an unchanged premium of seventy-five rupees per person. Over 151,000 Govindas are covered this year, an increase from last year's participation. The policy provides ten lakh rupees for accidental death or permanent total disability. Coverage extends to training sessions and travel after the festival concludes.

Meet Aaryan Balani, a 14-year-old from California who harnessed technology to create EYEVA, an AI-enabled wearable device designed to recognize and alert users to eye drift, which he has personally experienced since early childhood. Following the development of five prototypes and countless hours of dedication, Aaryan's invention triumphed at a science fair, illustrating his inspiring quest to turn personal adversity into a valuable tool for those with strabismus.

The Income Tax Department is set to enhance its Annual Information Statement by incorporating additional data. This revision extends to GST returns, foreign remittances linked to mutual funds, off-market securities, and overseas investments. Furthermore, data from another taxpayer's income tax returns will be added, aiming to fortify the verification of income and transaction details for taxpayers.

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs has introduced an innovative digital repository designed to assist importers and customs brokers. This platform features a searchable database that aims to standardize practices across the nation's customs formations. By enhancing clarity on product and transaction assessments, the National Assessment Centre Portal fosters improved compliance and transparency in trade interactions.

According to the draft amendment to the Central Electricity Authority (Technical Standards for Construction of Electric Plants and Electric Lines) Regulations, plants commissioned from July 2027 are required to install the co-located storage.

The introduction of eight free trade agreements heralds a new era of duty-free market access, particularly benefiting the electronics, agriculture, and gems and jewellery sectors. With Indias share in EU and UK imports being relatively low, these pacts open doors for substantial growth. Boosting export resilience and diversifying market opportunities are key advantages for Indian businesses.

In a remarkable transformation, a retired 7,000-pound wind turbine blade from a Colorado wind farm has been ingeniously repurposed as a pedestrian bridge in Beaverbrook Park, Atlanta. This pioneering project, a first in the United States, exemplifies a sustainable solution for decommissioned wind infrastructure, highlighting how engineers adapted the blade to effectively span a creek, reinforcing its durability as thousands of blades reach their end of life each year.

Five decades ago, a piece of land in Texas was damaged, overgrazed waste land no one wanted. One entrepreneur bought 5,500 acres of land in Texas Hill County and, over the decades, transformed it into a beautiful green haven where many animal species once going almost extinct now prosper.

Cockroaches are more than just a nuisance; they can trigger asthma and are experts at hiding. Experts emphasize that eliminating them requires making your home less inviting by removing food and moisture sources, sealing entry points, and decluttering. While natural deterrents like peppermint oil offer temporary relief, a comprehensive approach involving cleaning, sealing, and targeted treatments is crucial for effective control.

Following protests by members of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU), the hearing at Bordumsa in Changlang district had to be postponed. The office of the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) was also damaged.

The quote of the Day by Margaret Mead It is easier to change a man's religion than to change his diet explores the meaning behind the American cultural anthropologist's striking observation. The Margaret Mead quote offers a thought-provoking take on food habits, human behavior and why changing familiar eating routines can be surprisingly difficult.

Best German Proverb of the Day: Idle hands are the devils plaything is a German proverb warning against the dangers of having too much unproductive time. It suggests that when people lack purpose or meaningful activity, they may become more vulnerable to poor habits and harmful choices. The proverb ultimately encourages discipline, purposeful engagement and a balanced approach to work and rest.

A Russian drone struck Ukraine's SBU security service headquarters in Kyiv on Friday. The attack injured at least twelve people and damaged nearby buildings in the historic city center. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy vowed retaliation for the significant escalation of Russian air strikes. This strike occurred as U.S. negotiators prepared to visit Moscow and Kyiv. Diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict have faced considerable challenges.

India remains in continuous contact with both Ukraine and Russia. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar seeks ideas to mitigate the ongoing conflict. He discussed global challenges and the war with Poland's Deputy Prime Minister. India believes endless war must give way to a peaceful resolution. Promoting dialogue and diplomacy is India's strong conviction and action.

Past successes do not guarantee future safety and can breed carelessness. A Polish proverb warns that a wolf escaping with prey many times eventually gets caught. This wisdom highlights how repeated good fortune can lead to overconfidence and recklessness. Actions have consequences, even if they are sometimes delayed. Staying humble is essential when things are going well.

Celebrate the festive season with a wholesome twist on traditional sweets by trying a healthy halwa recipe. Renowned Mumbai nutritionist Vanshika Khurana has crafted a low-calorie apple halwa that combines the natural sweetness of apples and dates. This creamy dessert not only tastes delightful but also offers a nutritious alternative to heavier mithais, allowing you to indulge without guilt.

Heavy rain caused significant waterlogging near Delhi's IGI Airport on Friday afternoon. The Dwarka underpass experienced flooding, requiring temporary pumps to clear the accumulated water. Other underpasses and roads near the airport also faced waterlogging issues. This incident raises concerns about inter-agency coordination ahead of the BRICS Summit. Delhi's Lieutenant Governor had previously emphasized a collaborative approach for waterlogging prevention.

In 1827, a Romanian polymath, mathematician, physicist and engineer invented a device which helped fuel the rapid expansion of global literacy by getting the first Romanian patent issued in history. Petrache Poenaru patented a fountain pen in Paris on May 25, 1827. His pen used a swan quill as an ink reservoir and allowed continuous writing without repeated dipping into an inkwell.

In 1945, Percy Spencer made a casual observation that led to a major change in food preparation. Standing next to a magnetron one day, he noticed that a candy bar in his pocket melted. This caused him to wonder if the energy from radio waves could be used to cook food. He placed popcorn kernels near the tube; within minutes, he was snacking on the world's first microwave popcorn.

Tiffany Haddish transformed her financial future after a stranger advised her to buy a property annually for 15 years. This strategy, born from past homelessness, led her to accumulate approximately 17 properties. Her real estate portfolio now not only provides personal security but also supports foster youth, reflecting a journey from living in her car to becoming a successful homeowner and philanthropist.

An Instagram user shared how her father travelled 14 hours to surprise her after she told him she missed him. He spent eight hours with her before making the return journey, while also handling work calls. During the visit, he helped with household chores, took her out and brought her favourite food. The emotional post prompted viewers to share their own stories.

Great Green Wall land restoration Africa: The Great Green Wall initiative in Africa is making significant strides in rehabilitating degraded lands across the Sahel. Since its inception in 2007, nearly eighteen million hectares have been revitalized by participating nations.

India's National Financial Reporting Authority has set up a fresh advisory committee that will delve into critical areas such as audit quality, assurance practices and the integration of emerging technologies. This committee, comprised of experts from finance, auditing, and tech backgrounds, aims to provide guidance on industry standards and to pinpoint new risks that require closer inspection.

Lionel Messi's brand value grows as his football career nears its end. His global recognition and consistent excellence attract major international brands. His move to Inter Miami significantly boosted Major League Soccer's commercial appeal. Messi's established narrative provides brands with a ready-made story to share. His cultural memory ensures his brand's longevity beyond his playing days.

At an age when most of his peers were busy playing video games, one youngster from Tamil Nadu noticed how banana leaves, one of the most invaluable ingredients for making biodegradable, eco-friendly utensils, discovered a technology which could extend the life of these utensils for upto three years. The processing of one leaf costs less than one Indian rupee.

The Reserve Bank of India is conducting auctions to absorb excess funds. This liquidity stems from special dollar mobilization programs and forex inflows. The central bank aims to manage surplus funds and control inflation pressures. Analysts expect liquidity to potentially reach fifteen lakh crore rupees soon. RBI also sold government papers to manage market liquidity effectively.

10 Best Baby Boy Names With Powerful Meanings Parents Will Love

The NCLAT has overturned Zaveri Group's resolution plan for GHPSL. This decision mandates a restart of the insolvency process with new bids. The appellate tribunal cited an unverified presumption regarding SEZ de-notification. It also highlighted errors in the initial information memorandum provided. Consequently, fresh expressions of interest will now be invited.

Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis invited Belgian companies to explore investment opportunities within the state, positioning the state as an essential hub for engaging with global markets. With the India-EU free trade agreement poised to enhance trade relations significantly, Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever echoed the sentiment.

BSNL's indigenous 4G network is handling six petabytes of data daily. The network supports 1.75 lakh 4G base stations across one lakh sites. High-definition voice calls are now enabled through IP Multimedia Subsystem deployment. Indigenous 5G RAN technology is currently undergoing live testing on BSNL's network. BSNL aims to compete with private operators using its domestically developed mobile network.

Steel Authority of India Limited has announced an impressive eight percent increase in crude steel production, with total sales surging by thirteen percent in the same timeframe. Notably, the company has made substantial reductions in its overall borrowings. This financial enhancement comes after the reporting date of March 31, 2026. SAIL continues to hold its status as a top player in India's steel industry.