The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Heraclitus says, The world is nothing but a great desire to live and a great dissatisfaction with living. The saying explores human behavior, desire, dissatisfaction, inner tension and the struggle between what people want and what they experience. Heraclitus connected change, opposites, fire and logos to his view that life remains in motion through opposing forces.

Brain aging research: Older honeybees showed renewed learning abilities after changing social roles. Scientists observed significant molecular changes within the brains of these bees. These changes included specific proteins also found in humans. The findings suggest brain aging may be more flexible than previously thought.

Proximo is among the last major global spirits companies to establish a direct India operation. Most of its international rivals are already present in India, which ranks among the largest markets by volume for Diageo and Pernod Ricard, among others.

LIC said the governments 31,552-crore offer for sale reflects investor confidence and helped achieve 10% public shareholding. The insurer will focus on growth, margins and distribution, while the government must raise public shareholding to 25% by 2032.

The government is exploring a new incentive scheme for polysilicon manufacturing. This initiative aims to bolster domestic production capabilities within the sector. Currently, a production-linked incentive scheme supports solar module manufacturing. That program covers modules, cells, ingot-wafers, and polysilicon production. This new exploration follows earlier discussions on supporting polysilicon manufacturing.

While issuing notice to the government and Fssai, Justice Amit Mahajan said Dabur has made out a prima facie case for grant of stay of Monday's ban order, as such sudden restrictions could not have been imposed without issuing a show-cause notice or hearing the company.

Diageo is taking a bold step by designating India as a distinct operational region, separating it from the Asia-Pacific hub. This strategic choice is driven by the projected growth in India's spirits market. In tandem, the company is revamping its packaging network for Indian spirits, which is set to yield significant and recurring cost savings.

The sector's rising cash burn, coupled with the relatively limited size of the addressable market, is beginning to concern investors tracking the space. The category is economically viable primarily in urban catchments, where high order density supports efficient fulfilment and worker utilisation. Expanding into lower-density neighbourhoods is significantly more challenging, another industry executive said.

A competitive tariff of 5.25 per unit was discovered for round-the-clock renewable energy. This price emerged from a tender by the Solar Energy Corporation of India. The discovered tariff aims to compare with firm power sources like thermal and nuclear. Renewable energy must be supplied reliably on a round-the-clock basis. This development highlights the growing competitiveness of renewable energy sources.

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority has approved four new pension funds. This expansion aims to increase non-government NPS subscribers significantly over five years. Digital initiatives are expected to attract millions of new subscribers annually. PFRDA emphasises accessibility and simplified onboarding for broader pension coverage. Conservative schemes have delivered strong annual returns, building on past successes.

FSSAI has secured an order against AWL Agri Business for substandard fortified sunflower oil. Laboratory tests found the product failed to meet prescribed vitamin fortification standards. A penalty was imposed after tests revealed vitamin levels were below prescribed standards. This rendered the product substandard under the Food Safety and Standards Act. FSSAI did not disclose the specific penalty amount imposed.

Non-banking finance company credit grew 14.4 percent year-on-year in June. Retail loans saw the fastest expansion, increasing by 20.3 percent. Housing and vehicle loans, and gold jewellery loans showed robust growth. Credit to industry expanded by 6.7 percent, while services sector credit grew 17.6 percent. Agriculture and allied activities credit increased significantly by 17.9 percent.

Quote of the day by Christopher Walken says, At its best, life is completely unpredictable. The line looks at uncertainty as part of life. It suggests that people cannot plan every event or outcome. The quote encourages people to accept change, remain open to unexpected experiences, value the present and adjust when plans change.

Shakespeare's timeless insight sheds light on how fragile reputation is in today's world. Public opinion can easily elevate or tarnish an individual's status without justice. This guidance advocates for a commitment to integrity and sincerity in daily life. Authentic self-worth and character are not dictated by others' views, urging us to cherish genuine growth over transient applause.

Vikas Khanna has become a true-blue sensation in the world of cuisine today. His restaurant, Bungalow, which is located in NYC, is one of the most thriving eateries in the US. However, one heartfelt compliment from superstar Shah Rukh Khan has remained with him over the past few years.

Bihar government informed the Supreme Court about minister Deepak Prakash's MLC nomination. He has now taken his oath as a Member of the Legislative Council. This development addresses the plea seeking his removal from the ministerial post. The court was informed that Prakash is no longer barred from continuing as minister. His nomination ensures he meets the constitutional requirement for holding the position.

Brics trade ministers finalized their Economic Partnership 2030 strategy and adopted a joint declaration. They agreed on the Jaipur Consensus and Guiding Principles for MSME credit. This aims to close the trade finance gap and expand small business access. The declaration also supported a rules-based multilateral trading system led by the WTO. Ministers advanced market opening and economic diversification among member nations.

Popular TikTok star Sydney Towle lost the battle to cancer at the age of 26. Taking to X, an oncologist explained what makes bile-duct cancer the particular cancer that claimed her life so dangerous.

Ginger is set to exceed 1,000 crore in enterprise revenue in FY27 from 814 crore the year ago. As of July 31, Ginger had a portfolio of 260 hotels, including 165 operational properties and 95 in the pipeline. Ginger's operational footprint spans more than 110 locations across the country. Enterprise revenue for Ginger stood at 301 crore in the first quarter of FY27.

Evergreen diva Marilyn Monroe was celebrated not just for her ethereal beauty but also for her perfect hourglass figure. In an interview, the superstar stated that she did not follow any strict diet or heavy workout regimen for her perfect ten-body.

Godrej Consumer Products said surging LPG, kerosene and LABSA costs hit its India margins in the June quarter despite healthy volumes. Consolidated revenue rose 18.3% and profit 11.5%, while the company expects commodity pressures to ease in the second half.

Hardeep Singh Puri addressed the issue of fuel adulteration, asserting that concerns over it are baseless. A nationwide investigation uncovered only four instances at various petrol stations. He emphasized that oil marketing firms implement strict testing protocols. Analysis results indicate that chloride levels remain safe and do not support allegations of excessive chloride presence.

Britannia Industries said consumer demand strengthened in the June quarter, helping revenue rise 9.5% and profit nearly 14% year-on-year. However, rising sugar, palm oil and fuel costs are pressuring margins, prompting the company to consider further pricing measures.

Younger Indians are showing renewed interest in handloom textiles and their heritage. Social media and indie labels are making handloom fabrics fashionable and sustainable. Designers are creatively reinterpreting traditional handloom patterns for modern clothing. This shift brings new understanding and respect for weavers' skills and livelihoods. The future of Indian handloom will be shaped by this younger generation's engagement.

Central tax authorities are taking proactive measures by partnering with state mining departments to address the issue of illegal mineral extraction and transportation. This collaboration will involve setting up a comprehensive information-sharing system across all CGST areas. This directive is a result of a CAG report identifying critical gaps in intelligence sharing, with the goal of significantly reducing tax evasion in the mining sector.

India is reviewing its bilateral investment treaty model to attract more foreign capital. This review aims to make the treaty more investor-friendly and address existing concerns. Private investments are showing steady growth, benefiting from public capital expenditure increases. The government is also considering relaxing timelines for foreign investors to pursue global arbitration. India seeks to ensure stability and predictability for international capital during global turmoil.

Indian exporters need to integrate intellectual property protection with FTAs, customs, compliance, contracts and supply chains before entering overseas markets, a TPCI-RNA Technology report said, as IP increasingly influences market access, business valuation, partnerships and global competitiveness.

The Sawan kanwariya pilgrimage presents an untapped business model for seasonal commerce. Highways can transform into commercial runways for pilgrim-focused enterprises. Pop-up stalls could offer premium Ganga jal and branded merchandise. Corporate sponsors might integrate logos on kanwars and offer transport services. This fusion of faith and finance could become India's newest seasonal industry.

Indian Railways has implemented strict measures to address violations related to food quality and hygiene. The initiative includes imposing fines amounting to Rs 5.13 crore and the termination of contracts. By conducting regular inspections and surprise checks, they aim to enhance food safety compliance. The introduction of modern base kitchens, along with the installation of CCTV cameras, is intended for vigilant monitoring.

Travis Head secured his second consecutive Allan Border Medal award. He narrowly defeated close friend Alex Carey by a single vote. Mitchell Starc received the Shane Warne Men's Test Player of the Year award. Mitchell Marsh was named ODI Player of the Year. Tim David earned the T20I award for his performances.

India has formally identified twenty-seven places in Arunachal Pradesh on its official map. This action aims to ensure accurate recognition and public awareness of these locations. China has repeatedly renamed places in Arunachal Pradesh, which India rejects. India asserts Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the nation. These efforts aim to counter China's attempts to create baseless narratives.

The Federal Aviation Administration has mandated that inspections be carried out on numerous Boeing 737 Max aircraft due to potential cracks detected in older models. This concern has been known since Boeing flagged the issue and collaborated with operators over the last six years. In response, inspections for Max jets will now be enforced by the FAA, highlighting ongoing safety and quality challenges Boeing has encountered.

Indian airlines Akasa Air and Air India Express confirmed their Boeing 737 fleets are not impacted by a recent FAA directive. This directive mandates inspections for potential fuselage cracks on certain Boeing 737 aircraft models. Akasa Air stated its young fleet will not reach inspection thresholds for many years. Air India Express also confirmed its approximately eighty Boeing 737 planes are unaffected by the order.

An insightful Native American saying conveys that life is like a river, moving forward and never returning to its origin. It teaches us to appreciate our roots while embracing transformation and progress. Our journey is marked by lessons learned and choices made in the present. This proverb echoes the truth that every great success is initiated by taking a single, purposeful step into the future.

Brazilian proverb of the day highlights the saying, Between the beginning and the end there is always a middle. The proverb explains that every journey has stages and that growth happens during the middle phase. It teaches patience, presence, resilience, hard work and steady progress. The saying reminds people to value daily efforts instead of thinking only about the starting point or the final result.

A proposed US sanctions bill targeting Russian oil buyers could affect trade talks with India. White House officials stated negotiators will decide any impact on ongoing discussions. Senators are advancing legislation that could impose tariffs on countries buying Russian energy. This measure aims to curb revenues supporting Russia's military actions in Ukraine. India and the US continue trade negotiations despite evolving tariff structures.

Known by the British codename Silver, Talwar operated across German, Italian, Soviet, British and Japanese intelligence networks while maintaining links to Indias freedom movement. His shifting loyalties, including his work for British intelligence under Peter Fleming, have made his legacy controversial.

A Bengaluru resident spent approximately twelve lakh rupees over two years. His monthly expenses as a bachelor in the city reached nearly fifty thousand rupees. Rent constituted a significant portion of his monthly budget, amounting to twenty-eight thousand rupees. Food and daily expenses added another twenty-two thousand rupees to his monthly outgoings. This highlights the substantial cost of living for individuals in India's technology hub.

Sergio Gor, the US Ambassador, underscores the robust trust and teamwork that characterize US-India relations. With American businesses pursuing investments in India, bilateral trade has surged to over $240 billion. Additionally, India's military collaboration with the US is unmatched globally, while a remarkable 40% of the generic drugs consumed in the US are sourced from Indian manufacturers.

Pension funds collect and invest money contributed by employees and employers to build a large financial pool with an endeavour to pay regular income streams to workers after they retire.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has unveiled a new digital survey training program aimed at accurately assessing flood damage across four districts. Starting on August ninth, trained surveyors will carry out digital evaluations, with a comprehensive two-stage verification process ensuring reliable data by September tenth. This initiative lays the groundwork for structured rehabilitation efforts following the assessment.

Country music mourns Tommy Detamore, a respected pedal steel guitarist and producer. His wife confirmed his passing at the age of seventy on Wednesday, August 5. Detamore shaped country music's sound for over four decades with his collaborations. He worked with legendary and contemporary artists, influencing new generations. His legacy will continue through the music and recordings he helped create.

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority has approved four new pension funds. This expansion brings the total number of available pension funds to fourteen. Subscribers to the National Pension Scheme can now choose from these additional investment options. The authority aims to significantly increase non-government NPS subscribers over the next five years.

Reaching a major goal can bring a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, but that feeling is often short-lived. Steady progress, on the other hand, creates ongoing opportunities to build confidence, maintain motivation, and cultivate hope. By acknowledging and celebrating small wins along the way, we can lift our mood, reinforce positive habits, and stay inspired to pursue our bigger goals.

India's GeM portal has facilitated over twenty lakh crore rupees in procurement. This platform has seen millions of sellers and enterprises participate actively. Micro and small enterprises now hold over forty percent share on GeM. The number of registered sellers has significantly increased over the years. These enterprises have fulfilled substantial orders, contributing to the portal's success.

Outgoing Swedish Ambassador Jan Thesleff supports India's permanent UNSC membership bid. He emphasized defense manufacturing and innovation as key partnership pillars. Swedish companies are increasing manufacturing facilities in India under Make in India. The bilateral relationship has evolved significantly over recent decades. Both nations advocate for a rules-based world order and diplomacy.

A federal appeals court has ordered the Trump administration to stop White House ballroom construction. The court upheld a preliminary injunction against the $400 million project. This ruling tests the presidential authority of Donald Trump. The administration must now seek congressional authorization for the ballroom. The court placed its ruling on hold for fourteen days.

Senator Bill Cassidy will support Todd Blanche's nomination for attorney general. This decision likely ensures Blanche's confirmation to lead the Justice Department. Opposition from two other Republicans had previously cast doubt on the nomination. Concerns centered on a settlement involving tax audit immunity and a proposed fund. Cassidy stated his vote was a specific decision regarding Mr. Blanche.

India has amended foreign direct investment regulations to boost e-commerce trade. These changes will help small businesses, artisans, farmers, and fishermen access wider markets. BRICS ministers discussed enhancing trade, investment, and industrial cooperation among member nations. Discussions also focused on creating jobs through emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. India aims to leverage e-commerce for connecting small-scale products with vast global markets.

State-run oil companies have dismissed concerns regarding E20 petrol quality. Extensive nationwide testing found no evidence of excessive moisture or chloride contamination. Fuel quality consistently remained within prescribed standards across the entire supply chain. Isolated instances of elevated chloride levels were immediately addressed and rectified. Consumers can confidently use E20 petrol, which meets all quality specifications.