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The Economic Times

Economy / The Economic Times

Apples next AI device could be airpods with cameras

Reports suggest that Apple is working on an innovative version of the AirPods, possibly including integrated cameras for enhanced AI functionality. The design may feature thicker stems and the ability to capture images, as indicated by promotional footage found in Apple's software. Under the codename B790, these cutting-edge earbuds could be launched as early as September, significantly improving Siri's performance and usability.

19 Aug 2026 5:01 pm
Cabinet approves one highway and four railway multi-tracking projects

The CCEA approved highway and railway projects valued at Rs 13,041 crore. These initiatives will significantly enhance freight and passenger movement across various regions. A Bihar highway upgrade will connect the India-Nepal border to economic centers. Four railway multitracking projects will expand the network by approximately 410 kilometers. These developments aim to boost connectivity and facilitate substantial freight traffic increases.

19 Aug 2026 5:01 pm
India's agro-chemical companies seek data protection law to expedite farm innovation

Agro-chemical firms urge government to protect regulatory data in a new bill. This protection would encourage new pesticide molecule development and introduction. Companies seek a five-year exclusive access window for newly registered molecules. Such a framework aims to boost farm productivity and export competitiveness. International comparisons show other nations offer similar data protection periods.

19 Aug 2026 4:56 pm
India's crop insurers seek data protection law to expedite farm innovation

Indian crop insurers are asking the government for regulatory data protection. This provision would encourage the introduction of newer, safer pesticide molecules. Companies seek a five-year exclusive access window for newly registered products. This change aims to boost farm output and agrochemical exports competitiveness. International comparisons show other nations offer similar data protection periods.

19 Aug 2026 4:56 pm
Hyundai cars to get costlier from September as automaker hikes prices by up to 1%

Hyundai Motor India will implement a price increase of up to one percent. This adjustment will affect all vehicles across its extensive portfolio. The automaker cited rising input and commodity costs as the primary reason. Continuing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties also contributed to this decision. The price revision is scheduled to take effect in September 2026.

19 Aug 2026 4:55 pm
IndiGo faces intermittent reservation platform issues, online bookings hit

IndiGo's core reservation platform is experiencing intermittent issues today. This disruption affects customers' ability to book tickets and check-in online. The airline is working with a partner to resolve the problem urgently. Many customers reported issues with the website and the mobile application. IndiGo advised travelers needing immediate assistance to contact their call center.

19 Aug 2026 4:52 pm
3PL firms emerge as largest occupiers of Indias warehousing space

Third-party logistics firms now lead Indian warehousing demand, driven by e-commerce and manufacturing expansion. These companies increasingly outsource logistics, seeking specialised inventory and distribution services. Demand for larger, higher-quality facilities is rising as operators consolidate their networks. Rental growth supports this trend, with Grade A facilities seeing significant increases. Key markets include Delhi-NCR and Mumbai, while emerging cities also gain importance.

19 Aug 2026 4:45 pm
Naphthalene is not the only way to protect your clothes. 8 natural hacks to keep clothes moth-free and smelling fresh without mothballs

Naphthalene is not your only weapon against pesky moths which wreak havoc on your beloved woollens and cashmeres. According to several studies, prolonged exposure to mothballs may cause nausea and diarrhoea. There are several organic alternatives to mothballs which can keep your clothes safe from moths and also add a heady fragrance to your garments.

19 Aug 2026 4:35 pm
The UK pension pot question: Why 2026-27 is the year to decide

Starting April 2027, UK pension pots will be subject to inheritance tax, prompting a reevaluation of legacy planning strategies. For Indians holding UK pensions, transferring them to Indian QROPS before this deadline becomes vital. This process involves specific forms and an exact completion sequence. Indian pension schemes present a variety of investment options tailored to different risk profiles.

19 Aug 2026 4:35 pm
A UK tenant farmer made environmental changes years ago. In 2024, she helped create England's largest temperate rainforest nature reserve

In a remarkable ecological achievement, Borrowdale, Cumbria, is now home to England's largest temperate rainforest reserve. This initiative exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional agriculture and crucial environmental conservation. Spearheaded by Anne Cornthwaite, whose commitment to stewardship spans over ten years, Ashness Farm employs robust livestock and green energy solutions to cultivate the land effectively. This partnership plays a vital role in protecting ancient forests and nurtu

19 Aug 2026 4:33 pm
In 1999, a gangster landed in a California forest for a new life. Years later, he helped save Americas largest land birds from extinction

Anthony Prieto has made a remarkable shift from gang life to passionate conservation work. He now volunteers with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, educating hunters on the implications of lead ammunition to safeguard the California condor from extinction. In addition, he actively mentors at-risk youth, instilling in them a sense of responsibility towards the environment and fostering future guardians of nature.

19 Aug 2026 4:32 pm
AI in finance: From crunching numbers to making decisions, how far can it go?

Artificial intelligence is increasingly assisting in financial tasks and decision-making. Organisations report improved decision quality and faster processing with AI integration. Routine finance work like bookkeeping is being automated by AI systems. However, complex decisions still require human judgment and professional expertise.

19 Aug 2026 4:21 pm
Escorts Kubota to invest Rs 2,000 cr in UP

New Delhi: Farm and construction equipment maker Escorts Kubota on Wednesday announced a Rs 2,000 crore investment to set up a new manufacturing plant in YEIDA industrial area, Uttar Pradesh.The plant to be developed across 154 acres at Sector 10, Gautam Buddha Nagar, in the industrial area of the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), will be one of the largest manufacturing facilities for its promoter Kubota Group across the globe, the company said in a regulatory filing.T

19 Aug 2026 4:07 pm
Indian, US fuel exporters reaping bonanza amid oil supply uncertainty due to wars

India and U.S. oil refiners are benefiting from global fuel supply disruptions caused by wars in Iran and Ukraine, boosting refined fuel exports and margins. India is emerging as Asias swing supplier as Middle Eastern and Russian supplies tighten, while U.S. refiners expand diesel and jet fuel exports. Strong demand, lower inventories and record diesel margins are reshaping global fuel markets.

19 Aug 2026 3:58 pm
India's July crude oil imports rise over 9% month-on-month

India crude imports: On an annual basis, crude oil imports were up 13%, from 18.89 million tons in July last year, data from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell showed.

19 Aug 2026 3:57 pm
Why rising Treasury yields are becoming a growing risk for the US economy

A sell-off in U.S. Treasuries has pushed yields higher, raising borrowing costs for households, companies and the federal government. Higher yields could pressure mortgages, corporate investment, asset valuations and government debt servicing. Investors are watching inflation, energy risks, Federal Reserve policy, Treasury supply and foreign demand for signs of prolonged market pressure.

19 Aug 2026 3:47 pm
Inside newlywed Anumols Kerala home: Bigg Boss Malayalam 7 winners house is filled with childhood photos, fan gifts and her parents 34-year love story

Anumol Anukutty, the celebrated winner of Bigg Boss Malayalam 7, recently tied the knot with Bhuvanesh Rajendiran in a cozy ceremony. She reminisced about her childhood home, crafted lovingly by her father over the years. The actress revealed heartfelt fan memorabilia and cherished snapshots from her past, expressing gratitude for her parents' constant encouragement in her acting journey. Their lasting marriage has fueled her aspirations for a loving partnership.

19 Aug 2026 3:43 pm
War-driven windfall gains for chemical makers likely to fade in Q2, demand remains key risk: Kotak Institutional Equities

Profit gains made by several Indian chemical companies in the first quarter due to higher prices are likely to weaken in the second quarter as companies shift to costlier raw materials, while weaker demand remains a key concern, Kotak Institutional Equities said in a report.

19 Aug 2026 3:41 pm
Five generations of one Texas family cared for 1,029 acres of land. In 2005, they handed hundreds of acres over to wildlife instead of developers for protection of 2 species of America's rarest birds

A Texas family chose conservation over development, helping protect 1,029 acres of land cared for by five generations. The Trust for Public Land worked with Thomas Penn to transfer the property to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, expanding the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. The protected habitat will benefit the endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler and Black-capped Vireo while connecting thousands of acres of existing protected land.

19 Aug 2026 3:39 pm
Vedanta invests over $1 bn in net-zero transition in FY26

Vedanta invested over one billion dollars in net-zero transition initiatives during FY26. Renewable energy use increased by fifty-two percent, reaching four billion units. The company now has nearly two thousand megawatts of renewable energy capacity. These efforts avoided three million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions intensity declined by approximately fourteen percent from a baseline.

19 Aug 2026 3:33 pm
ITC Hotels evaluates Dubai, other overseas markets for luxury hotel expansion

ITC Hotels is evaluating multiple management contract opportunities in Dubai and other proximal international markets as it looks to expand its global footprint. The company plans to reach 250 operational hotels with 22,000 keys by 2031, while increasing its owned portfolio and expanding beyond major metros.

19 Aug 2026 3:27 pm
Japanese proverb of the day: 'The tongue is but three inches long, yet it can kill a man six feet high'- A reminder why you should never underestimate the power of what you speak

Words carry immense power to cause lasting damage or offer profound healing to individuals. A small utterance can significantly impact a person's confidence and reputation. Modern communication amplifies the reach of spoken words, making caution even more vital. Choosing words carefully before speaking can prevent future regret and foster understanding. Wise use of language strengthens relationships, while careless speech can destroy them.

19 Aug 2026 3:27 pm
Cabinet clears Rs 13,041 crore rail & road projects; Howrah-Chennai line to be quadrupled

The Union Cabinet approved railway and highway projects totaling 13,041 crore. Four railway projects will quadruple the Howrah-Chennai main line, increasing train capacity. These projects aim to enhance freight movement and passenger services on key routes. A highway project will improve connectivity to the Nepal border in Bihar. The approved initiatives are expected to boost logistics and employment opportunities.

19 Aug 2026 3:22 pm
Russia to receive almost 270,000 tons of refined fuel from Asia in August, data shows

Russia is importing nearly 270,000 tons of refined fuels from Asia this August. These shipments are occurring via ship-to-ship transfers to obscure their origins and routes. India supplied about one-third of these refined fuels destined for Russia. Two tankers are arriving in Russia's Far East this week with vital fuel supplies. This comes after Ukrainian attacks disrupted Russia's domestic refining capabilities.

19 Aug 2026 3:22 pm
Sicilian proverb of the day: Whoever leaves the old for the new doesn't know the troubles left behind, but not ; old saying warns us that the grass is not always greener, and new jobs or relationships can bring unexpected disappointments

While we may change a current job, or home or relationship because we find it frustrating or monotonous or ridden with difficulties, we should always keep in mind that a new job or situation or circumstance which may seem more promising is not without its own set of challenges.

19 Aug 2026 3:08 pm
Congress stands with tribals staging 'satyagraha' against 'Ken-Betwa project', will pressure govt: Rahul Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi supports tribals protesting the Ken-Betwa river-linking project. He will visit the protest site to pressure the government. Tribals claim the project will displace thousands and harm the Panna Tiger Reserve. They allege administrative harassment and seek parliamentary intervention. Gandhi pledged his and Congress's solidarity with the affected communities.

19 Aug 2026 3:06 pm
Italian Proverb of the Day: The eye doesnt see, the heart doesnt hurt. A timeless lesson on peace of mind

Italian Proverb of the Day: The eye doesnt see, the heart doesnt hurt explores the connection between awareness and emotional pain. The traditional saying suggests that people may avoid worry or distress when they remain unaware of something unpleasant. Its broader lesson considers whether knowing difficult truths always brings greater peace or whether ignorance can sometimes protect peace of mind.

19 Aug 2026 3:04 pm
In 2018, scientists added up to 15 tons of cacao-shell biochar per hectare to degraded tropical soil; maize yields improved over several growing seasons

Research indicates that using cacao-shell waste to create biochar has significantly improved agricultural yields on degraded farmland in Sumatra. Over time, this biochar technique demonstrated enhanced effectiveness, particularly in the acidic Ultisol soil. However, its benefits diminished after multiple growing seasons, necessitating repeated applications to sustain its positive influence. Thus, biochar emerges as a beneficial resource for promoting soil health and ensuring food security.

19 Aug 2026 3:00 pm
Bangladesh seeks faster business visas, balanced economic ties with India

Bangladesh seeks faster business visa issuance for its nationals traveling to India. Dhaka also urged greater ease of doing business for mutual economic benefits. The nation wants businesses and private sectors to communicate more frequently. Bangladesh desires more vibrant trade, investment, and communication between the two countries. It invites greater Indian investment in Bangladesh's economic zones.

19 Aug 2026 2:58 pm
Zendaya movies & series to watch this weekend on OTT: From Spider-Man and Malcolm & Marie to Euphoria, must-watch picks

Looking for something entertaining to watch this weekend? Zendaya has built an impressive screen career, moving effortlessly between superhero blockbusters, musical dramas, intense romances and dark coming-of-age stories.

19 Aug 2026 2:57 pm
Happiness Habit of the day by William Ralph Inge: The happiest people seem to be those who have no particular cause for being happy except; the English author's timeless quote on the secret of happiness

William Ralph Inges quote,The happiest people seem to be those who have no particular cause for being happy except that they are so,suggests that true happiness need not depend on achievements or circumstances. The English author believed contentment could exist even amid lifes imperfections. His words remain relevant in a world focused on success, encouraging people to stop postponing happiness and appreciate ordinary moments of peace, joy and fulfilment.

19 Aug 2026 2:40 pm
Exicom makes Indias first liquid-cooled EV charger modules

Exicom Tele-Systems is now manufacturing liquid-cooled power modules for EV chargers. This new production facility in Hyderabad will serve global markets, including North America and Europe. The company's move addresses heat challenges in high-power electric vehicle charging systems. Exicom's acquisition of Tritium enhances its liquid-cooled technology capabilities.

19 Aug 2026 2:39 pm
Expect to create 6,440 jobs via Rs 1,166 cr investment on 2 units in YEIDA: Spark Minda

Auto components maker Spark Minda will create approximately 6,440 jobs. This expansion involves two new manufacturing units in the YEIDA region. The company is investing Rs 1,166 crore in these new facilities. These plants will produce ignition switch-cum-steering locks and mechatronic components. A joint venture with Toyodenso will also establish a new plant in Noida.

19 Aug 2026 2:26 pm
African proverb of the day: Do not throw away the old bucket until you know whether the new one holds water - A timeless life lesson on giving value to what you have before making a change

Proverb of the day: According to the African proverb, its wise to thoroughly test new pursuits while maintaining the strength of existing support networks. Newness alone cannot guarantee improved quality or durability. This African proverb highlights the importance of cautious shifts and recognising the value of established foundations. In contemporary society, where rapid change is glorified, cherishing reliable solutions helps prevent hasty choices and cultivates enduring strength.

19 Aug 2026 2:21 pm
Sabse bada rupaiya: India prints 3x more notes than the US, 6x more than Europe

India's rupee banknotes in circulation significantly outnumber US dollar and Euro notes. The Reserve Bank of India reports 176 billion rupee notes are currently in use. This volume is driven by a preference for lower-denomination notes and a Clean Note Policy. Physical currency circulation expands at double-digit rates annually, despite digital payment growth. This expansion presents forecasting challenges for the central bank's production planning.

19 Aug 2026 2:08 pm
The Architecture Trap: Why better algorithms wont fix healthcare

Indias AI healthcare push faces a critical choice: use technology mainly to streamline existing healthcare transactions or build a prevention-focused system. With national digital-health infrastructure already in place, the key challenge is creating incentives and coordination that reward preventing hospitalisation rather than treating it.

19 Aug 2026 2:08 pm
Why Mahindra is not rushing to launch electric heavy trucks: SML Mahindras Vinod Sahay explains

Why Mahindra is not rushing to launch electric heavy trucks: SML Mahindras Vinod Sahay explains

19 Aug 2026 2:07 pm
Krones inaugurates Rs 315-crore bottling equipment plant in Karnataka

Germany-based Krones opened its new manufacturing facility in Karnataka's Kolar district. This impressive facility was built in a record eighteen months with a significant investment. The plant will produce packaging systems and machinery for the Indian market. It is expected to generate approximately four hundred new employment opportunities for local residents. Karnataka's Industries minister highlighted the state's investor-friendly industrial ecosystem.

19 Aug 2026 2:06 pm
Quote of the day by Morgan Freeman: How do you be good to life? You live it well and hopefully make it... -Words of wisdom by Oscar-winning actor on finding joy and peace by being kind to others

Quote of the day by Morgan Freeman: Morgan Freeman, in his acceptance speech for the AFI Life Achievement Award, articulated a powerful philosophy centered on kindness and compassion. He believes that genuine worth is derived from helping others and enriching their lives. Freeman's quote encourages individuals to focus not only on personal achievements but also on the meaningful impact they can have within their communities.

19 Aug 2026 2:04 pm
Quote of the day by Drew Barrymore: I just think you should eat less of everything. A little bit less ; life lesson on the dangers of overeating and how it can lead to weight gain and affect quality of life from Hollywood diva

Want to stay in shape and avoid putting on flab? The answer to that remains the same: Do not overeat. In an old interview, Hollywood star Drew Barrymore got candid about strategies to remain slim and trim and advised fans to eat a bit less.

19 Aug 2026 1:52 pm
India beat Lanka by 165 runs to win 1st test

Galle: Rising left-arm spinner Manav Suthar claimed a match haul of 10 wickets in his second Test as a dominant India completed a 165-run thrashing of Sri Lanka in the opening Test of the two-match series, here on Wednesday.Chasing an improbable 372, the hosts crumbled for 206 all out in 77.4 overs in the post-lunch session as Suthar claimed his maiden five-wicket haul en route to his impressive 6/55. He was well-supported by veteran Ravindra Jadeja who bagged 2/16.The 24-year-old left-arm spinn

19 Aug 2026 1:34 pm
No visa needed, 3-star hotels for Rs 1000, Rs 500 scooty rent: Only 6 hours from India, this Vietnamese island has Maldives-like beaches, Disneyland-style theme parks and grand European architecture

Phu Quoc is the perfect visa-free destination for Indian tourists craving a luxurious yet affordable escape. The island in Vietnam has stunning beaches and European-inspired architecture that create a unique allure for all travellers. Families can enjoy diverse entertainment at Grand World and VinWonders, while the An Thoi Archipelago's island hopping and snorkeling adventures beckon thrill-seekers. Experience the local culture through pepper farms and lively night markets that showcase the isla

19 Aug 2026 1:32 pm
Building something requires ego: Mamaearth's Ghazal Alagh challenges leave your ego at the door advice and reveals how to tell confidence from ego

Mamaearth co-founder Ghazal Alagh challenges the common leadership advice to leave your ego at the door, arguing that building something from scratch requires confidence and belief in your ideas. However, ego can become harmful when feedback feels personal, changing your mind feels like losing, or being right matters more than getting it right. Alagh suggests asking, Am I protecting the business, or am I protecting my identity? to distinguish conviction from ego.

19 Aug 2026 1:22 pm