The Economic Times

Sixty-six million years later, the story of the dinosaurs remains one of nature's most dramatic reminders that life on Earth can change suddenly and profoundly.

Assam's Assembly approved a bill allowing original inhabitants to buy land near heritage sites. This law permits families residing there for three generations until 2006 to remain. New purchasers must be original inhabitants, Scheduled Castes, or Scheduled Tribes. District Commissioners can evict unauthorized occupants from protected heritage areas. The legislation aims to safeguard these historical institutions across the state.

In 1898, an immigrant inventor created a remote-controlled boat powered by a battery and operated it with the help of radio signals while everyone thought it was magic as the real reason was yet to become popular. Nikola Tesla introduced one of the earliest wireless-controlled machines at Madison Square Garden. His invention surprised visitors, inspired future wireless technology, received a U.S. patent, and later became an important milestone in the history of remote control and radio communica

Tamil Nadu's school education minister proposed serving chicken biryani weekly. This proposal is currently under review by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay. The government also plans to enhance the existing school breakfast menu. Repetitive items like upma will be replaced with nutritious alternatives. Minister Rajmohan criticized the Union government for withholding educational funds.

Jared Leto, a renowned actor and musician, shared his perspective on life. He advocates for looking forward and avoiding past regrets, which fosters personal growth. This mindset reduces stress and builds confidence in facing new challenges. Embracing experiences, both good and bad, contributes to individual development. Focusing on future opportunities creates motivation and maintains optimism.

Zac Efron believes destiny offers chances, but personal courage makes them real. His career shows how taking risks leads to growth and versatility. Opportunities require action and effort to transform dreams into tangible achievements. Preparation and a readiness to act are crucial for recognizing life's possibilities. Ultimately, courage is essential for seizing the doors destiny opens.

Fungus that makes diesel: Scientists discovered a fungus in Patagonia producing diesel-like chemicals. This organism, Gliocladium roseum, creates long-chain hydrocarbons similar to fuel. The fungus can consume plant waste like cellulose to produce these substances. Researchers found this discovery promising for renewable energy sources.

Quote of the Day by Naomi Campbell: Naomi Campbells quote, I work very hard and I'm worth every cent, explores the importance of hard work, self-worth, and self-confidence. The quote suggests that success is earned through dedication, discipline, and consistent effort rather than luck alone. It highlights the value of recognizing your own abilities and believing that your skills, commitment, and perseverance deserve appreciation and fair recognition.

Is there a giant hidden planet beyond Pluto? Tyche planet mystery explained: In 1999, astronomers proposed Tyche. They suspected a giant world hiding deep in the Oort Cloud. It was four times bigger than Jupiter. Weird comet paths pointed right to it. Then in 2014, NASAs WISE telescope scanned the sky and found zero evidence. Tyche was officially ruled out. Still, the search for a hidden outer planet isn't over.

The flare-up on multiple fronts, after several days of relative calm, raised the risk of a return to all-out war. It also underscored the difficulty of winding down a five-month conflict that has jolted the world economy and is unpopular among Americans.

A mission to save NASA's Swift telescope is encountering difficulties. The Link satellite, sent for rescue, has developed thruster problems and is spinning. This malfunction disrupts communications and threatens the urgent $30 million NASA mission. Engineers are working to stabilize Link and restore its ability to reach Swift. The mission's success is crucial to prevent Swift's re-entry this fall.

NASA, the European Space Agency, and other international partners continue planning ambitious explorations of Mars, including efforts to return Martian rock samples to Earth for detailed laboratory analysis. Such missions could reveal whether ancient microbial life ever existed beneath the planet's surface or within its long-vanished lakes.

Wrapping car keys in aluminum foil can block signals used in relay attacks. This method helps prevent unauthorized access to modern keyless entry vehicles. Similarly, wallets containing contactless cards can be shielded from unauthorized scanning. While effective, aluminum foil offers only partial protection against signal theft. Stronger security measures remain essential for comprehensive protection against modern threats.

Outbound investments from GIFT IFSC face tax-related constraints, according to an IFSCA official. The International Financial Services Centres Authority is actively collaborating with the government on this matter. Industry representatives have requested a more competitive tax framework to boost outbound investment structures.

West Bengal will serve eggs separately in state-run schools as part of mid-day meals starting August 1. The state government is also adopting the National Education Policy, aligning with other Indian states. Funds have been allocated for school development and strengthening the PM POSHAN program. Composite school grants have been released after a three-year gap to address local needs.

At first, these phrases may seem ordinary, but they reflect an important psychological principle: they help slow down conversations instead of escalating conflict. Rather than fueling emotional reactions, they promote curiosity, encourage collaboration, and create space for more thoughtful and constructive discussions.

The Karnataka High Court dismissed appeals by NICE and KIADB regarding the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor Project. A division bench upheld a single judge's ruling on the long-running dispute over land acquisition. The court found land acquired for public infrastructure was commercially exploited, violating the Framework Agreement. Thousands of landowners have remained without compensation for decades, the judges noted.

Psychology suggests that enjoying cold pizza has less to do with personality and more to do with factors such as memory, sensory preferences, familiarity, and emotional associations. Food preferences are highly personal, and what seems unusual to one person may simply be a source of comfort or enjoyment for someone else.

Larsen & Toubro is investing Rs 5,000 crore over five years in a new electronic products business. This new venture aims to expand manufacturing and research capabilities for future growth. The company expects its addressable market to more than double by 2031. Mobility will be a key growth pillar, developing electric vehicle components and systems. L&T will leverage technology partnerships before building proprietary products for markets.

Actor Madhavan recently paid a homage to later business tycoon Jamsetji Tata, who was the founder of Tata Group, Indias largest conglomerate. He was such a big philanthropist, he donated a large sum of money to support widows and children of soldiers just months before his demise.

Madison Beer is engaged to Justin Herbert, the Los Angeles Chargers quarterback. Her diamond engagement ring is estimated to be worth over half a million dollars. Industry experts estimate Madison Beer's net worth to be around eighteen to twenty million dollars. Music royalties and concert tours remain her primary sources of income. Beer's career began with a YouTube cover and has since expanded significantly.

Sonu Sood has responded to Kangana Ranaut's controversial Generation Gutter remark about Gen Z protesters, saying young people are the ones who make actors successful and deserve respect. Calling the reported comment very shameful, Sonu urged public figures to think before speaking, while Kangana's social media posts on the protesters continue to spark debate online.

People who dislike having their mistakes pointed out are often reacting to more than the correction itself. Their response may be influenced by factors such as self-esteem, cognitive dissonance, emotional regulation, mindset, and past experiences with criticism. At the same time, this doesn't mean every defensive reaction is appropriate or that constructive feedback should be avoided. Instead, it highlights how personal history and emotions can shape the way people receive criticism.

Glen Hansard death: Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard has died at age fifty-six. He passed away following a motorcycle crash in Dublin early Wednesday morning. Hansard won an Academy Award for the song Falling Slowly from the film Once. His career began busking on Dublin streets and later fronting The Frames. Tributes are pouring in for the gifted musician and actor.

Neeraj Chopra competes in the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 javelin throw. He aims to reclaim gold after missing the 2022 event due to injury. The qualification round is scheduled for Thursday, July 30, with the final on Friday, July 31. Chopra faces strong competition from athletes like Arshad Nadeem and Anderson Peters. Indian fans can watch the event live on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV.

Quote of the day by Joaquin Phoenix reminds people that money is not the only measure of a rich life. His words explain how family support, love, shared experiences and parental sacrifice can shape a person's future. The quote encourages gratitude for simple moments and shows that success comes from relationships, values and character instead of material wealth. It also reflects Phoenix's own childhood and life journey.

Harrison Ford's quote humorously reflects on aging and changing life priorities. His words acknowledge health concerns and the natural progression of life. The actor's authenticity and honest approach to growing older resonate widely. This perspective encourages acceptance and laughter regarding life's inevitable transitions. Ford's enduring message inspires audiences across different generations.

India's finance ministry warns of rising crude oil prices impacting fiscal and trade balances. Persistent geopolitical tensions in West Asia present key risks to the nation's economy. The country's external sector remains resilient, supported by strong exports and services trade. Foreign exchange reserves stand at $675.2 billion, offering a significant buffer.

A 1999 Super Cyclone and Kargil War shaped Arun Kar's early resolve. He joined the Indian Army's Regiment of Artillery after a demanding selection process. A medical injury redirected his path towards business and further education. Kar then co-founded Nest Group, a diverse UK-based conglomerate. His career now spans technology, sustainability, gaming, and film production.

International Friendship Day 2026 falls on Thursday, July 30, while India observes it on August 2. This day honors the essential role of friendship in fostering global peace and understanding. It reminds people to value connections and strengthen emotional well-being through mutual support. The United Nations officially proclaimed July 30 as the International Day of Friendship in 2011. This occasion encourages appreciating relationships and expressing gratitude for friends' presence.

Patanjali Ayurved and Dharampal Satyapal Group secured IRDAI approval for Magma General Insurance. This acquisition marks Patanjali's significant entry into the financial services sector. Patanjali will acquire a majority stake, while DS Group will become a co-investor. Magma General Insurance has shown strong premium growth and achieved profitability. Patanjali plans to expand the insurer's product offerings and reach across India.

India and Nepal have made strides in trade with the commencement of a direct commercial container freight train service connecting Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard. The first train carried forty tank wagons filled with canola oil, marking a crucial development that promises to slash transit durations and reduce logistics costs. This collaboration is a testament to their growing economic union.

A UK TikTok creator fulfilled a promise to his late French Bulldog, Oscar. He sent a portion of Oscar's ashes towards the edge of space using a balloon. The emotional footage, shared on TikTok, has garnered millions of views and significant attention. This unusual farewell resonated deeply with pet owners worldwide. The creator successfully recovered the payload and Oscar's ashes after the flight.

Legendary investor Warren Buffett has praised NBA icon LeBron James for his business acumen, saying he is a smart guy off the court. Buffett's remarks highlight James' successful investment strategy, equity-backed business ventures and entrepreneurial journey, which have helped him become the first active NBA player to achieve billionaire status, alongside his record-breaking basketball career.

The Centre has issued its seventh draft notification for the Western Ghats ecologically sensitive area. This proposal designates approximately 56,825 sq km as a sensitive zone across six states. Southern states, particularly Kerala, have raised objections to the proposed prohibitions. The draft includes phased notification to expedite the designation process. Agricultural practices and plantations will remain unaffected by the new provisions.

Quote of the day by Barack Obama: Barack Obamas quote, Hope is not blind optimism. It's not ignoring the enormity of the task ahead or the roadblocks that stand in our path. - serves as a core manifesto on personal responsibility, active hope, and agency. Rather than treating hope as passive optimism or waiting for favorable circumstances, Obama defines genuine progress as an intentional act of courage and disciplined effort.

Most of us tuck the router neatly behind the TV or in the entertainment unit. Looks clean, feels convenient. But that one decision could be the main reason your internet feels slow, patchy, or unreliable throughout the house.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency will finance nine Indian officials to pursue master's degrees in public policy and engineering at elite Japanese institutions. This program aims to enhance India's governance capabilities and strengthen international relations. Participants will delve into Japanese administrative techniques and industry insights, directly supporting Indias developmental strategies and forthcoming policy initiatives.

People who frequently look for signs from the universe are engaging in normal mental processes that help humans understand uncertainty and create meaning, according to psychology.

Production-linked schemes have driven significant investment in India's electronics manufacturing sector. Mobile production alone has seen approximately Rs 96,000 crore in new investments. Electronics production grew by 15.8 percent year-on-year, reaching Rs 13.11 lakh crore. Smartphones now lead India's exports, surpassing traditional commodities like gems and jewellery. These initiatives are creating substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities across the nation.

Cyber fraud cases have nearly tripled in India since 2020. Telangana recorded the highest number of these cases in 2024. Online banking fraud led the identified categories for the year. The government has established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre. This initiative aims to tackle cyber crimes in a coordinated manner.

Three companies will invest Rs 2,000 crore over three years for new wagons. This investment will procure approximately 6,500 wagons for private leasing operations. TrinityRail Global joins the existing joint venture with a significant stake. The government's liberalized wagon design policy enables this expansion. This move aims to meet immediate demand for around 30,000 new wagon units.

West Bengal Police recovered significant cash and gold from an illegal sand mafia hideout. Authorities seized approximately five point five crore rupees in cash and fifteen kilograms of gold. This recovery is part of the state government's efforts to curb revenue leakages. The chief minister praised the police for their swift and professional action against corruption. The crackdown on mafia syndicates will continue with zero tolerance for illegal activities.

The Calcutta High Court ruled that identity cards do not prove Indian citizenship. A habeas corpus petition was dismissed as proof of citizenship was lacking. Nasir was detained after his name was removed from electoral rolls. He failed to establish his Indian citizenship within the given timeframe. The court drew adverse inferences regarding his parents' citizenship.

School holiday tomorrow, July 30: No statewide school closures are announced for Thursday, July 30. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted across many Indian states. Authorities advise checking local district updates for potential school advisories. Several regions including Delhi-NCR and Maharashtra expect significant monsoon showers. Parents and students should monitor official announcements regarding school operations.