The Economic Times

India needs to shift from a petro state to an electro state as rising power demand from EVs, AI and data centres accelerates the push for renewable and nuclear energy, speakers at the ET World Leaders Forum said.

JioStar vice chairman Uday Shankar said sports, particularly cricket, has been a major investment for the company, helping it build a digital audience of 600 million monthly active users. However, he said soaring cricket media rights costs have made the business increasingly difficult.

Axis Bank has underwritten the entire amount and is likely to keep a large part of around Rs 5,000 crore to the financing, while State Bank of India and HDFC Bank are evaluating commitments for the remaining amount, the people said. Aditya Birla has also held discussions with six to seven other domestic lenders, but prefers to close the financing with two banks, or a maximum of three lenders, they said.

India Inc.'s conviction in the country's growth prospects is possibly the highest in a long time and capital discipline is being mistaken for lack of commitment toward expanding capacities, said Kumar Mangalam Birla, chairman, Aditya Birla Group, at The Economic Times World Leaders Forum.There is enough capacity buildout happening on the ground with new plants springing up across the country and bank loan numbers pointing to robust economic activity, said the chief of the cement to consumer cong

Akshay Kumar is known for being one of the most fit stars in Bollywood. However, the tinsel towns Khiladi is not exempt from engaging in a little bit of weakness now and then. In an old interview, his personal chef revealed the superstar indulges in a particular treat.

The FSSAI has suspended Marche Retail's license for thirty days due to sanitation and hygiene issues. SDP Industries must stop selling its ghee after laboratory tests detected foreign fats. Inspections revealed multiple deficiencies at Marche Retail's New Delhi facility. These violations included poor record-keeping and inadequate temperature controls for products. The regulator confirmed non-conformity in SDP Industries' ghee after an appeal.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Annie George Mathew, Syed Akbaruddin and Janmejaya Kumar Sinha as part-time non-official directors on the Reserve Bank of Indias central board for four years.

Artificial intelligence will shift payments from digital to delegated commerce, enabling machines to transact for consumers. Trust and real-time controls will become essential building blocks for the financial system. AI will enhance personalized experiences and help identify fraudulent transactions effectively. Consumers will focus on payment outcomes rather than the underlying transaction rails. New guardrails will be necessary as machines increasingly interact autonomously.

At the University of Houston, engineers are ingeniously repurposing retired wind turbine blades to construct highway overhead sign structures. This sustainable strategy uses strong composite materials, reducing costs and environmental impact. The project offers a forward-thinking solution to an escalating waste challenge, extending the life of valuable materials in infrastructure projects.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is stepping down from her daily duties. She will now focus on her growing family and personal commitments. Leavitt will transition to a key outside advisor role for the administration. She will concentrate on party messaging and grassroots engagement efforts. This move follows her historic tenure as the youngest press secretary.

Quote of the day by Immanuel Kant: Immanuel Kant's insightful quote champions the value of independent thought and the importance of utilizing one's reasoning abilities. It advocates for a culture of inquiry, where individuals are encouraged to critically assess information instead of accepting it blindly. This philosophy fosters intellectual liberty and empowers individuals to make informed decisions. Ultimately, it inspires a courageous pursuit of knowledge through diverse learning experiences

Ukraine proposed a Black Sea grain corridor truce, but Russia rejected it. Moscow demanded guarantees against strikes on its energy infrastructure. President Zelenskyy ruled out holding wartime elections due to constitutional and practical challenges. Attacks on commercial ships and ports raise fears about global grain supplies. Ukraine's grain exports have significantly decreased since early August.

The Kuki-Zo Council has demanded a Census exercise in Manipur. They argue an impartial Census is essential to establish facts and dispel claims. The council stated no group can unilaterally decide NRC timing or implementation. Nagas and Meiteis have been demanding NRC before the 2027 Census. The chief minister assured support for NRC implementation in Manipur.

Microdrama content is attracting significant audience engagement, similar to long-form videos. This format combines short-form immediacy with long-form cliffhangers for viewers. Consumers prefer microdrama, spending considerable time watching multiple episodes daily. Microdrama platforms are creating new screen time, not replacing existing viewing habits. Relatable stories and quick episode completions drive viewer interest and repeat engagement.

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd raised Rs 660 crore through convertible warrants to a promoter group entity. Sunbright Mauritius Investments Ltd paid twenty-five percent upfront for these warrants. The company's promoter group holding will increase significantly after full conversion. This allotment follows approvals from various regulatory bodies and the Securities Appellate Tribunal. The preferential issue cleared a prolonged fundraise overhang due to past regulatory proceedings.

European transport systems are grappling with the impact of rising extreme heatwaves. To combat this, railway tracks are being coated in white to enhance reflectivity and minimize heat retention. Meanwhile, cutting-edge drones and AI technology are deployed to monitor railway conditions for safety concerns. In Norway, airport runways are being irrigated to safeguard against heat-induced softening.

Bollywood actress Shenaz Treasury was recently seen gushing over natures shampoo', which you can just squeeze directly from a flower and use the thick, fragrant liquid extract on your hair. She said that the extract of shampoo ginger can work wonders for your tresses, cleansing them and keeping them soft.

Death comes for us all. In an old interview, superstar Angelina Jolie admitted that she thought about death quite often, not because she was morbid, but because she has a zest for life. She admitted that it was completely okay to be afraid of dying before your time, and as its a reality for all, we should live life to the fullest.

India is set to become a global shipbuilding hub, addressing a market vacuum. The nation will focus on design, manufacturing, and MRO services for growth. This strategic move aims to leverage declining capacity in traditional shipbuilding nations. Expansion projects at GRSE and YIL will bolster indigenous capabilities significantly. India's growing naval strength and maritime security needs will be supported.

More than 160 years have passed since Abraham Lincoln's assassination, yet ghost stories related to him continue to thrive. Both visitors and White House staff have reported eerie encounters and sightings, enriching the building's folklore. A legend surrounding a phantom funeral train also emerged after his remains were transported. The intrigue surrounding his life and tragic death keeps these captivating tales alive.

Weight loss can be a tedious, long process for many people. Gastroenterologist Dr Pal Manickam shared one foolproof tip to burn fat faster and speed up weight loss and its none other than fasting! Yes, you read that right. While limiting the number of meals you take in a day can be difficult, the results it will deliver are more than worth the effort.

Taylor Swift possesses a real estate portfolio valued over one hundred million dollars. Her properties span Pennsylvania, Nashville, New York, Rhode Island, and California. These homes represent different stages of her successful music career. From a Nashville penthouse to a Rhode Island mansion, each property holds significance. This collection solidifies her status as a prominent real estate investor.

Two teachers and a 15-year-old student drowned in a pool beneath a waterfall near Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, on Sunday, while three other students were rescued and hospitalised, police said.

Engaging in regular walking provides numerous health benefits for individuals. Brisk walking aids in weight control and enhances heart health. Studies show that optimal step targets differ according to age and physical activity levels. Experts recommend a gradual increase in daily steps instead of aiming for a specific figure. This strategy encourages consistency in walking, ultimately promoting better overall health and wellness.

Aston Villa faces potential player exits as Ollie Watkins attracts significant transfer interest. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martnez has also expressed a desire for a new challenge this summer. The club has already turned down multiple offers for striker Ollie Watkins from Al Hilal. Manager Unai Emery confirmed the team is preparing for Martnez's potential departure. Aston Villa is actively involved in the transfer market with about ten days remaining.

Kazakhstan on Sunday voted in its first elections for the 145-member Kurultai, the countrys new unicameral Parliament created under a Constitution that took effect on July 1. Voters chose from seven registered party lists in a single nationwide constituency.

West Bengal is set to unveil Arjun Vahini, its new disaster management force, starting operations in September. This strategic response is a direct reflection of lessons learned from previous disasters and cyclones. The state will provide advanced equipment and vehicles for the unit, aiming to recruit ex-servicemen and Agniveers. With this move, the government seeks to bolster disaster preparedness and response capabilities across the region.

Billionaire and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos once asked ace investor Warren Buffett why more people don't follow his simple investment strategy. Buffett's get-rich-slowly answer stayed with Jeff Bezos, whose latest $7 billion Liverpool FC investment reflects a similar long-term approach to building value. A consortium including Jeff Bezos has agreed to buy a minority stake in Liverpool FC.

Bathroom tiles can quickly lose their luster due to the accumulation of residue and grime. To restore their shine, use white vinegar to eliminate water stains and mineral deposits. Baking soda paste is excellent for stubborn grime, while dishwashing liquid tackles soap scum effectively. Utilize an old toothbrush to scrub tile grout, and make a habit of wiping tiles dry after showers.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the Centre is taking measures to manage sugar availability and rising prices ahead of the festival season, including temporary imports of raw sugar. He attributed the fall in production to red rot disease and El Nino conditions.

Sugar prices have surged to 75-80 per kg in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar amid falling sugarcane production and heavy stockpiling by traders. Experts said the rise is driven by lower cane output, shorter crushing seasons and stockpiling, rather than diversion of sugar for ethanol production.

Recent findings reveal that severe sunburns can dramatically increase the chances of developing skin cancer in adulthood, particularly a type known as cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Alarmingly, children who experience frequent sunburns face heightened future cancer risks. While the dangers of ultraviolet rays are clear, sunscreen application often varies widely among individuals. Preventing further sunburns is imperative since any prior damage is irreversible and cannot be corrected.

Anveshana 2026, a student research initiative, concluded with 20 projects presented by students. Prime Minister Modi highlighted this program in his Mann Ki Baat address. Top projects explored molecular docking, pesticide residues, kitchen waste conversion, and natural latex composites. Experts praised the program for fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This initiative democratizes research access for school students across India.

Cheese is not the enemy of weight loss, believe it or not. There are some varieties of cheeses which are not just low in calories but also low in sodium, which makes them a great snack to have in your weight loss journey, especially if you are unwilling to make your diet completely plant-based.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will lead a 200-member business delegation to Japan from August 24-27 to boost bilateral trade and investment, with a focus on high-tech manufacturing, semiconductors, AI, clean energy and other emerging sectors.

People pursue happiness and fulfillment through varied life choices and definitions of success. Social media often fuels comparisons, making it difficult to avoid judging others' paths. It is important to remember that different roads do not necessarily mean someone is lost. Respecting individual decisions, even those unlike your own, is crucial for a good existence. Focusing on your own journey allows for personal meaning and contentment.

The Youth Run Punjab 2026 event showcased the state's progress away from drug use. Thousands of young participants joined the 5-kilometer run organised by the AAP's youth wing. This marathon symbolised Punjab moving beyond despair and a mindset of giving up. The state is now emerging as a vibrant and active region through its youth. This initiative reflects growing enthusiasm among young people for constructive activities.

Ox Alpha, an unidentified AI model that recently appeared on OpenRouter as a stealth model, is drawing attention from developers because of its large context window and multimodal capabilities. The system can process text, images and video and has been offered free with near-unlimited usage for a week. Its anonymous launch has triggered speculation over who built it and why.

In a significant move, Maharashtra intends to regulate private coaching centres by mandating their registration. The forthcoming law stipulates that classes cannot exceed five hours per day and establishes fee guidelines. Additionally, it prohibits the enrollment of children below thirteen years old and bans misleading promises. Coaching centres are now required to prioritize student safety, offer counselling services, and maintain acceptable infrastructure.

Apple cider vinegar shows modest weight reduction and BMI improvements in some studies. However, research limitations and a retracted study question its effectiveness. ACV may help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type two diabetes. It can also increase feelings of fullness by slowing digestion. Ultimately, ACV is not a shortcut for sustainable weight management.

Devdutt Padikkal scored his second century of the series as India reached 300 for five. Sri Lanka missed two early chances which could have altered the match's direction. Captain Shubman Gill also contributed a calm half-century before his dismissal. Asitha Fernando took three wickets, including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. Ravindra Jadeja made 43 before being bowled in the final over of the day.

You don't need a footpath to hit your daily movement goal. From stair climbing and burpees to dancing and yoga, several indoor exercises burn more energy than 10,000 steps of walking. Science backs each of these, and most need no equipment, no gym, and no more than 30 minutes.

School Holiday Tomorrow: With the southwest monsoon actively delivering heavy rainfall on August 24, 2026, parents and students are advised to stay alert for any school closure announcements. Particularly in Odisha and Bihar, where significant rain is anticipated, local authorities will assess safety before making decisions. As of now, no school holidays have been officially declared, so keep an eye on local updates to ensure safety for everyone involved.

Hawaii wildlife crews recently discovered Blackburn's Sphinx Moth caterpillars on Lnai. These endangered insects were also found in Halawa Valley and Kalae on Molokai. These sightings mark the first on Molokai since the 1940s. The discoveries provide crucial information for conservation efforts.

17-year-old Texas student Iris Shen won $150,000 and third place at the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search for testing potential cancer drugs in clams. Her research found that one drug produced effects similar to those seen in human cells, while other drug combinations slowed tumor growth, suggesting clams could potentially serve as a new model for blood cancer drug discovery.

People who doodle while listening may not necessarily be ignoring what is being said. In some situations, doodling can act as alow-demand attentional activity, especially when the main task feels boring or repetitive. However, in other cases, free-form doodling may compete for attention with the information a person is trying to absorb or remember.

Kidney stones affect roughly one in ten people globally and the numbers are rising. The good news is that what you eat plays a significant role in whether they form at all. Here are seven everyday foods backed by research that can make a real difference.