The Economic Times

Aluminium foil can be more than a kitchen staple. Clean foil scraps can help protect furniture edges, handles and small surfaces from paint splashes, dust, spills and stains during DIY or cleaning projects. Because foil is flexible, it can be shaped around corners and oddly shaped areas. However, avoid using it on delicate or freshly finished surfaces, as foil may scratch or trap moisture.

India's food regulator FSSAI has ordered Pie Foods to halt sales of two sweetener products. The prohibition stems from violations of labelling and advertising regulations. FSSAI found issues with relabelling endorsements and e-commerce website operations. Mandatory declarations were missing from product labels and website claims were made.

Akasa Air will hire over 500 pilots in the next three years. The airline plans to induct more than a dozen planes annually. International routes will increase to about forty percent of capacity. This strategy aims to improve revenue per available seat kilometre. Larger aircraft will also help reduce unit costs through economies of scale.

Kamika Ekadashi Date 2026: On August 9, 2026, devotees will celebrate Kamika Ekadashi, a holy day devoted to Lord Vishnu. Devotees will engage in a day of fasting and perform rituals aimed at enhancing their spiritual journey. The fast will conclude, known as Parana, on August 10, 2026. Bestowing praises on Lord Vishnu and presenting Tulsi leaves is considered significant, as this observance is thought to purify sins and invite divine blessings.

Jennifer Garner uses a greywater recycling system to water her home garden and miniature orchard in California. As reported by People, she grows plums, peaches, cherries, apricots, apples, figs and vegetables including potatoes and tomatoes. During an Architectural Digest tour, Garner explained that wastewater from her washing machine, dishwasher and shower is filtered and redirected to specific plants, helping conserve water.

India's electric vehicle retail sales hit a record 3,27,901 units in July. This represents a significant 66 percent year-over-year growth for the sector. The two-wheeler segment led this surge with 2,04,362 units sold. Electric passenger and three-wheeler sales also saw substantial increases. Overall, electric vehicles now constitute nearly one in eight vehicles retailed.

President Droupadi Murmu emphasized e-commerce platforms for expanding India's handloom product global reach. She noted the sector provides significant employment, engaging about thirty-five lakh people. Over twenty-five lakh women are actively involved in this important handloom industry. The President expressed confidence in the sector's role in inclusive national development. Prestigious Sant Kabir and National Handloom Awards were also presented at the event.

Indias Strategic Forces Command conducted the 10th test of the Agni-IV ballistic missile, and its sixth user trial. Since Agni-IV is already inducted into service, the test was less about developing new technology and more about demonstrating operational readiness, reliability and deterrence credibility.

Widely admired for his leadership, consistency and professionalism, Rahane joins Amsterdam Flames at a time when European cricket is entering an exciting new phase of development. His arrival underlines the franchise's ambition to build a world-class brand while contributing meaningfully to the long-term growth of the sport.

India is reviewing its bilateral investment treaty model soon. The cabinet will decide on changes to attract more foreign capital. This review comes as India negotiates new pacts with developed nations. Indian industry bodies also seek faster dispute resolution for investors. The nation aims to boost foreign direct investment compared to peers.

The Reserve Bank of India will permit lenders to restrict devices bought on EMI financing. These restrictions will be gradual and only after a loan is significantly overdue. Incoming calls and emergency functions will remain accessible to borrowers. Disclosure requirements for recovery agents have also been eased by the central bank. The new rules will be implemented from January 1, 2027.

The African proverb, Advice is a stranger; if he is welcome he stays for the night; if not, he leaves the same day, teaches that advice should be heard but not blindly followed. Like a guest, guidance can be welcomed, considered and retained if useful, or politely discarded if unsuitable. Its relevance lies in balancing open-mindedness with independent judgement and personal choice.

New trade deals offer Arunachal Pradesh farmers and manufacturers global market access. Nine agreements spanning thirty-eight countries create wider export opportunities for producers. These pacts aim to lower tariffs and reduce trade barriers for Indian exporters. Arunachal Pradesh's agriculture and horticulture sectors hold significant export potential. Strengthening infrastructure and market linkages will boost the state's export growth.

Indias retail inflation likely rose to 4.50% in July from 4.38% in June, according to a Reuters poll of 40 economists, marking a second straight month above the RBIs 4% medium-term target.

Actor R Madhavan, last seen in Dhurandhar 2, shared a painter's insightful experiment on Instagram. The painter initially received much criticism when asking for flaws. Later, when offered tools to correct, no one made any changes. This demonstrated that finding faults is easier than offering solutions. Constructive guidance holds more value than casual negative opinions.

India's food regulator will not extend the ninety-day deadline for energy drink labeling changes. Global beverage companies sought a one-year extension to comply with new regulations. Many Indian states have indicated existing stocks can be sold within sixty to ninety days. Companies are also concerned about state governments seizing energy drink products. This decision is set to significantly disrupt the beverage industry in India.

The Delhi High Court quashed criminal complaints related to the Maggi Noodles controversy. This decision followed subsequent judicial developments and fresh testing of the product. The court found continuing prosecutions would abuse legal processes. Earlier reports formed the basis of these complaints against the company. New scientific findings significantly weakened the prosecution's original case.

India is poised to achieve its divestment aspirations this fiscal year, with enhanced momentum in stake sales and asset monetisation. Although increased fertiliser costs and fuel subsidies pose a challenge to public financial stability due to regional disputes, the country has already garnered over $5.5 billion from diverse stake sales.

US Ambassador Sergio Gor met industry leaders and government officials on Friday. Discussions focused on strengthening US-India collaborations across advanced manufacturing and technology sectors. The critical minerals sector was also a key area for enhancing strategic supply chains between nations. Assistant Secretary Wesley R. Brooks highlighted opportunities in recycling and recovery of critical minerals. The US-India Business Council hosted a roundtable on critical minerals recycling and rec

Ankur Warikoo shared five money rules he follows with wife Ruchi. The couple invests before spending, prioritises assets over status symbols, and prefers quality food and experiences over material possessions. They travelled 116 days last year and spend freely on books, courses and learning. Warikoo said they were not born into money, with real abundance arriving only in the last six or seven years.

The Delhi High Court has halted an FSSAI order that banned Dabur India's product sales. This order targeted claims like '100% Pure' and '100% Natural' on various food items. Dabur challenged the regulator's action, citing a lack of prior notice and hearing opportunity. The company argued the FSSAI order was unreasoned and lacked legal basis.

The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) draft directions proposing restrictions on revolving credit facilities offered by non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) could affect flexi and overdraft loan products across corporate, MSME and unsecured personal loan segments, according to a Morgan Stanley report.

An internal medicine expert recently shared an anecdote about a patient who started bleeding from the forehead without any wounds or scratches. He explained how, in some cases, people bleed without any injuries, just from a panic attack.

Larsen & Toubro has secured significant offshore orders from ONGC. These orders are valued between five thousand and ten thousand crore rupees. The projects involve pipeline replacement and well head platforms off India's west coast. L&T Energy Hydrocarbon Offshore will execute these critical engineering projects. This reaffirms L&T's role in developing India's energy infrastructure.

Priyanka Gandhi criticized Mohan Bhagwat's support for Gen Z protests. She stated young people do not need his certificate. Bhagwat had earlier backed Gen Z's genuine grievances and honesty. He insisted protests by youth are not anti-national in democracy. Gandhi also questioned Amit Shah's absence from parliamentary sessions.

OpenAI plans a unique doughnut-shaped smart speaker for a 2027 release. This AI-first device will feature moving parts and advanced humanlike interactivity. It aims to offer a premium look and feel, costing over $300. The company is collaborating with Jony Ive's LoveFrom studio on the design. OpenAI believes its new product does not violate any Apple trade secrets.

Three daughters of 72-year-old Shiv Charan Gupta watched their father's cremation through a video call after they said they could not travel to Sonipat for his funeral. Gupta lived at an old age home in Haryana. Staff and volunteers at the home performed his last rites on August 3.

Ashmita Chaliha and Rakshitha Ramraj advanced to the Korea Masters semifinals. Chaliha secured a significant upset against top seed Hina Akechi of Japan. Ramraj overcame a game deficit to defeat compatriot Tanvi Sharma in a tough match. Both Indian players displayed resilience and skill in their respective quarterfinal victories. They will now compete for a place in the tournament's final round.

Swiss proverb of the day: Letting go of outdated investments or projects can be tough, but its crucial for your well-being. A Swiss proverb suggests that it's better to part ways with regret than to hold on and suffer more. This approach helps dispel the sunk cost fallacy and the fear of loss. By making timely exits, you can redirect energy into fresh, promising ventures, fostering peace and better decision-making.

Air India will restore most curtailed flights starting September 1. The airline is also adding frequencies on several international routes including Additional services will go to Milan, Frankfurt, and Zurich. Melbourne, Tokyo, and New York. These changes follow a sharp rise in fuel prices earlier.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly unanimously passed a resolution seeking fair tax devolution. This resolution aligns with constitutional principles of fiscal and cooperative federalism. Finance Minister N Marie Wilson presented the resolution to the Union government. The state emphasised its economic contribution and development needs.

The South Coast Railway Zone is rapidly establishing itself as a leader in India's railway network. With over fifty-four thousand crore rupees dedicated to major projects, and an impressive pipeline worth nearly seventy-one thousand crore rupees, the zone is making significant strides. Recent commissioning of vital infrastructure and safety upgrades has led to notable enhancements in passenger services and overall amenities.

Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran stressed proactive AI safety and security in finance. He warned AI must not foster financial exclusion and humans must remain involved. Fintech aids economic adoption, especially for SMEs and retail personal finance. Sustained cross-border payment growth depends on expanding trade volumes.

India plans a new incentive scheme for domestic polysilicon production. This move aims to reduce reliance on imported solar materials. The government seeks to build an integrated solar manufacturing ecosystem. India targets 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel power by 2030. This initiative will boost clean energy ambitions and industrial competitiveness.

Ireland vs Afghanistan 2nd ODI Live Streaming: As the second ODI unfolds on August 7, 2026, at Bready Cricket Club, Ireland and Afghanistan are set to clash, both eager to claim their inaugural victory after the first match was abandoned. Ireland rides high on the momentum from a recent T20 series triumph, while Afghanistan embarks on a new era under fresh leadership.

The Reserve Bank of India's deposit scheme has attracted significant foreign currency inflows. This scheme is expected to mobilize up to one hundred billion dollars by its closing date. These inflows are helping to stabilize the Indian rupee after a period of weakness. Additionally, tax-free government bonds are attracting foreign investment and improving capital flows.

Shakira quote of the day: Global pop sensation Shakira recently shared her thoughts on romantic attraction, emphasizing that displaying indifference can captivate a man's interest. This viewpoint underscores the significance of maintaining personal poise and individuality. Shakira's words advocate for valuing self-esteem over seeking incessant outside approval, providing a unique angle on contemporary relationship dynamics.

IRCTC offers meticulously crafted tour packages to Japan specifically designed for Indian travelers. The all-inclusive packages encompass flights, accommodations, meals, and guided tours. Notable upcoming tours feature an extensive 8-night itinerary departing from Delhi and a 9-night adventure starting from Ahmedabad, highlighting iconic locations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Mount Fuji. Prices for these extraordinary Japan experiences begin at approximately Rs 3.45 lakh per person.

India's food regulator FSSAI has penalized AWL Agri Business Ltd for selling substandard oil. A sample of Fortune Fryola refined sunflower oil failed lab tests for Vitamin D. The company's appeal confirmed significantly lower Vitamin D levels than prescribed. FSSAI imposed a penalty on AWL Agri Business Ltd for these violations. This action follows recent crackdowns on food business operators by the regulator.

The Supreme Court declined to halt a Bombay High Court ruling on spectrum charges. This decision impacts Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea regarding past spectrum usage. The High Court had previously quashed the government's 3,300 crore demand. This levy was for spectrum held beyond 6.2 MHz between 2008 and 2012. The Centre has now appealed this judgment to the Supreme Court.

Xiaomi India is launching its Mijia sub-brand for home and lifestyle products. This move aims to diversify the company's offerings beyond declining smartphone shipments. The company plans to enter the large home appliances segment with local manufacturing partners. Mijia will join Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco in the brand portfolio.

A Bengaluru entrepreneur cultivated Hass avocados after facing disappointment with local produce. He imported saplings from California, which required significant patience and care. The young tree showed little progress initially, testing his resolve over several years. After three to four years, the tree finally bore fruit, rewarding his consistent efforts. This experience highlighted the value of investing in strong foundations for lasting results.

Clint Eastwood reflected on life's unpredictability in an interview with Esquire, saying, You can't stop everything from happening. Recalling his father's sudden death at 63, he shared how he regretted not spending more time with him while chasing success. Eastwood's message is to accept that some things remain beyond control and not let ambition make us overlook relationships, ordinary moments and experiences that may later become deeply meaningful.

Avinash Wadhawan, who studied in Delhi, was academically brilliant, winning gold medals in mathematics in Classes 10 and 12. He turned down IIT Kharagpur and later chose Jamnalal Bajaj after securing admission to IIM Lucknow and XLRI. His modelling journey eventually led to acting. Wadhawan also recalled his early friendship with Akshay Kumar, when they shared motorcycles and jackets. He was last seen in Mausam Ikrar Ke Do Pal Pyar Ke and appeared in the 2025 TV series Manpasand Ki Shaadi.

2026 Independence Day: India's pharmaceutical industry marks a historic milestone with a new drug approval. This achievement reflects decades of growth from importing medicines to global leadership. The nation now supplies a significant portion of the world's generic medicines and vaccines. The Covid-19 pandemic further showcased the industry's manufacturing capabilities globally. Government initiatives now aim to foster innovation and high-value biopharmaceutical production.