The Economic Times

Big Branchs recovery is ultimately a reminder that environmental restoration is often measured in years rather than weeks. The stream did not improve because of a single cleanup project; its progress followed years of watershed planning, agricultural conservation, technical assistance, local participation and public funding.

Russia and India have established a functioning payments infrastructure using roubles and rupees. This system now accounts for ninety-six percent of their bilateral trade transactions. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached seventy billion dollars in 2024. The payment mechanism is considered one of Russia's most reliable with other countries. Most transactions are processed within ten minutes, with many completed in under a minute.

Quote of the Day by Maya Angelou: Maya Angelous quote, The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned, captures the universal desire for belonging, emotional safety and unconditional acceptance. Her words suggest that home is not defined only by a building or location, but by the feeling of being accepted without having to explain, defend or change who we are.

Small finance banks anticipate improved asset quality this financial year. Gross non-performing assets are projected to decline significantly by March 2027. This improvement stems from microfinance portfolio recovery and stable non-microfinance growth. Tighter underwriting practices have strengthened borrower selection in microfinance portfolios. Borrower over-indebtedness caused past credit stress in microfinance books.

India is discussing partnerships with the UK and EU for critical mineral processing. The nation collaborates with the US on resilient supply chains for critical minerals. Trade deals with the Gulf Cooperation Council and Israel are pending regional stability. Component makers are encouraged to expand their local businesses globally. High-tech firms may receive exemptions from BIS certification for manufacturing.

India and the European Union explored deeper cooperation in critical minerals and processing. Discussions also covered fintech and artificial intelligence advancements between the two blocs. The finance minister met with her Russian counterpart to discuss bilateral cooperation. They also reviewed regional and global economic developments and shared interests. Sitharaman further met with finance ministers from Poland, Qatar, and South Korea.

Credit card profits are shrinking for Indian banks as spending rises. Customers now use cards more for payments than borrowing, reducing interest income. Interest-bearing balances have significantly fallen as a percentage of total card spending. This trend is impacting major lenders like HDFC Bank and SBI Cards. Analysts predict further profit margin declines in the coming years.

India's statistics ministry defended its latest GDP growth figures. The ministry cited improved data sources and methodologies for the estimates. It explained the GDP deflator differs from retail and wholesale inflation measures. Revisions to GDP data are a normal part of economic accounting. The government stressed the new GDP series better reflects economic activity.

A video clip of a security guard has gone viral Shovan Chakraborty has become an Internet sensation of sorts, not only for being a marvellous singer but also for his tragic story, which led to him becoming a security guard. Once a music teacher, he had lost all of his students one by one in the Covid-19 pandemic.

Positivity portal The Better India recently shared the incredible journey of actress Mahima Makwana. Known for critically acclaimed TV series such as Balika Vadhu, Musafir Cafe, etc., Mahima experienced financial hardships when she lost her father at a very tender age. She started her career as an actress as a child to support the family.

Japan Credit Rating Agency has upgraded India's sovereign rating to A- after more than three decades. This upgrade recognizes India's solid economic growth and effective economic policies. The country's financial system has also shown improved soundness and reduced non-performing loans. India's economy is projected to maintain a high growth rate of over six percent. This development occurs amidst a challenging global economic environment.

Tamannaah Bhatias nutritionist Luke Coutinho recently took to Instagram to sing the praises of one humble vegetable. A common sight in the Indian kitchen and plates all throughout the year, okra, or bhindi, is a nutritional powerhouse, packed to the brim with nutrients that can help keep your blood sugar levels in check if you have diabetes.

Global illegal money flows reached $4.4 trillion in 2025, impacting world GDP significantly. Bank frauds are increasing, with many types growing at twenty percent annually. Organized crime and drug networks fuel much of this illicit financial activity. In India, anti-money laundering cases hit a four-year high in FY26. A very small fraction of defrauded amounts is ever recovered by authorities.

Faith-infused cinema is experiencing remarkable success in theaters, even with limited financial resources. These films resonate with viewers by integrating spirituality into relatable narratives, addressing deep existential questions and showcasing how faith can provide solace and fortitude. With increasing audience engagement, producers view this genre as a robust investment, driven by culturally significant tales and shared community experiences.

Several companies submitted bids for BluPine Energy's renewable assets. JSW Neo Energy and Inox Clean are among the potential buyers. Blackstone and Macquarie also entered the bidding process for the company. The renewable energy platform is owned by Actis and has 4 gigawatts. This sale is positioned as one of the sector's largest M&A deals.

Mohit Jain is set to take the helm of the Audit Bureau of Circulations for the term 2026-27. His vision revolves around captivating the interest of younger, urban demographics in newspaper readership. Publishers are targeting innovations in content and digital platforms to draw in fresh readers, emphasizing the importance of daily newspapers for broader insights and perspectives.

A forthcoming inter-ministerial panel meeting will address the fees and allocation frameworks for satellite spectrum. It is anticipated that the digital communications commission will ratify a fee structure of five percent of adjusted gross revenue, with incentives for companies serving underprivileged rural zones. This crucial decision aims to facilitate new entrants, including Starlink, into the Indian broadband landscape.

Monsoon illnesses and a significant rise in H1N1 cases are driving a surge in demand for acute therapies and flu vaccines. Sales of anti-infectives and antibacterials saw a 12% month-on-month increase in July, with flu vaccine sales nearly tripling year-on-year in August, leading to supply challenges in several cities.

According to Shiseido's Asia Pacific president, the beauty landscape in India is transforming, embracing a rich tapestry of diversity that extends well beyond traditional notions of fairness. As consumers increasingly demand products that reflect their individuality and unique self-expression, theres a significant opening for brands to innovate. Digital-first initiatives and engaging social media presence are shaping a new generation of ingredient-conscious beauty enthusiasts.

In response to challenges regarding Indias 7.8 percent GDP growth, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal passionately argued against the claims made by opposition figures and a past finance secretary. He underscored India's stability in the face of global economic turmoil, pointing to high job prospects within the textile sector. Goyal condemned the efforts of critics aiming to mislead the public about the nations economic health.

The DGGI proposed mandatory recording of website payment details to stop illegal gaming networks. This aims to plug financial system gaps exploited by betting operations. The agency's probe uncovered a betting ecosystem estimated at seventy thousand crore rupees. Recommendations will undergo wider consultation with payment entities and banks. This initiative seeks to trace transactions and identify illicit fund routing networks.

Fort Lewis Army Base used staff training, equipment upgrades, renovation projects, and improved operating practices to strengthen building energy efficiency. In 2003, its Public Works Department hosted a BOC Level I course for twenty-five Maintenance and Repair Division employees and other Public Works staff. The training helped employees expand their knowledge of building systems, energy conservation, indoor air quality, and equipment operation. The base also worked on energy-efficient lighting

Amazon has announced that it will shut down its Mechanical Turk crowdsourcing platform on September 30, 2026, after two decades of connecting global workers with online tasks. The ongoing advancements in AI have led to a decline in human involvement in these digital jobs. This decision highlights a significant transition in the workforce dynamics between humans and AI, affecting many who depended on the platform for flexible job opportunities.

Quote of the day by Charlie Munger: You look at Carnegie and Franklin... and see how much of their knowledge came from teaching themselves through reading. The idea reaches beyond books, touching the way people handle work, uncertainty, mistakes and important decisions when no one else can provide the answer. The deeper lesson is that curiosity builds judgment over time, helping us think independently, learn from experience and understand that education does not end when formal schooling does.

Best German Proverb of the Day: Dont paint the devil on the wall is a German proverb cautioning against imagining trouble before it happens. Its vivid imagery offers a lesson in handling uncertainty without turning possibilities into fears. The proverb encourages people to remain realistic, avoid needless pessimism and focus on what is actually happening rather than constantly anticipating the worst.

A latest Central Vigilance Commission report reveals that 7,229 corruption cases investigated by the CBI are pending trial across various courts. Of these, 409 cases have remained pending for more than 20 years, while 1,612 cases have been pending for less than three years, highlighting prolonged delays

A child prodigy who became one of the pioneers of cybernetics was thinking about intelligent machines decades before artificial intelligence became part of everyday life. Norbert Wieners work explored how machines could use information, feedback and past behaviour, while also warning about the impact of automation and growing human dependence on technology. His ideas, written more than 70 years before ChatGPT, now seem surprisingly relevant to the AI debate.

Scientists identified Praearcturus gigas as the largest known scorpion, measuring one meter long. This ancient predator lived approximately 415 million years ago during the Early Devonian period. Researchers re-examined museum fossils, revealing new details about its anatomy and lifestyle. The discovery challenges previous explanations for giant arthropod sizes. This finding highlights the ongoing scientific value of historical museum collections.

Bessent, asked about Russian support for Iran in an interview on Fox News following a G20 gathering in North Carolina this week, also warned everyone against backing Tehran. My message to everyone is stay away. We all want this conflict to end, and the fastest way for the conflict to end is for no one to provide any support to this regime, he told Fox & Friends one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin threw his support behind Iran.

Bosnian proverb of the day: A Bosnian saying advises against quick judgments based solely on visible distress. Emotions can influence perception, making careful consideration essential for understanding. First impressions do not always reveal the complete truth of a situation. Compassion and good judgment should work together when assessing others.

With investment demand for silver dwindling, refiners and dealers are inundated with rising stockpiles. The precious metals prices have dropped more than forty percent since the beginning of the year, negatively affecting investor morale. Cautious buying continues due to heavy losses faced by earlier investors. Coupled with an expected dip in industrial consumption, market conditions remain tense. Nevertheless, a few long-term investors perceive this correction as a timely diversification opport

Quote of the day by Russell Crowe, The secret to riches is the same as the secret to comedy timing, explains how success can depend on choosing the right moment. The quote connects wealth creation, market entry, patience, preparation, opportunity and execution. It also reflects Russell Crowes character Max Skinner in A Good Year.

Starting Thursday, external affairs minister S Jaishankar embarks on a three-day journey to Ukraine and Poland amid rising fears of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He plans to engage in bilateral dialogues with both Ukrainian and Polish officials, with a focus on the recent assaults on Indian seafarers in the Black Sea region. The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and discuss ongoing developments in the region.

ETs roundup of the wackiest whispers in corporate corridors

Gold imports may fall by fifteen percent this September, prompting Prime Minister Modi to call on citizens to restrict their purchases of the precious metal. This recommendation targets a reduction in the nation's import expenses and current account deficit. Notably, more consumers are choosing to swap outdated jewelry for fresh designs. Gold prices, however, continue to show volatility due to global economic challenges and central bank interventions.

India is taking notable steps to establish a new SCO Development Bank, with member nations moving towards finalizing the foundational documents for this crucial financial entity. Both Russia and Kazakhstan have shown interest in hosting the headquarters. The bank aims to finance collaborative economic projects while enhancing trade partnerships, marking a significant push for financial independence from traditional systems used for manipulation.

A human-specific gene influences brain immune cell development. These cells, called microglia, mature much slower than in mice. This extended maturation period may help build complex neural connections. The gene SRGAP2 appears to synchronize this process with neuron development. This finding offers new insights into human brain evolution and disorders.

Abhinandan Varthaman, a former IAF Group Captain known for his valor, has taken to the skies as a pilot at Fly91 since August. Awarded the Vir Chakra in 2021, Varthaman rose to fame after successfully downing an enemy aircraft during a 2019 encounter with Pakistan, following which he endured three days of captivity. His new role promises exciting challenges ahead.

A small change to your daily brushing routine may make a difference to how well your teeth are protected. While rinsing with water immediately after brushing feels like the natural thing to do, dental experts say it can reduce the amount of an important ingredient left on your teeth. Heres why the familiar brush, spit and rinse routine may be worth reconsidering, and what you can do instead.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Russia to end the Ukraine war. This call for peace aligns with India's long-standing stance on avoiding conflict. Russia faces severe economic and military consequences from the ongoing protracted war. Ending the conflict would allow Russia to rebuild its strength and economy. Peace in Ukraine also benefits global supply chains and international stability.

Quote of the day by James Joyce: James Joyce believed actions reveal true thoughts and feelings more than words. His famous quote highlights that behavior offers a clearer understanding of individuals. Joyce, an influential Irish novelist, shaped 20th-century Modernist literature significantly.

India and Russia are ramping up their collaboration in the Arctic, with a strong focus on resource development. A meeting between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi next week will delve into this burgeoning partnership. India is set to launch its inaugural cargo ship along the Northern Sea Route next year, promising substantial reductions in travel distance and time for European trade.

A 2015 University of Florida experiment used five gallons of fluorescent dye to track water movement through a 5.1-mile section of Floridas Silver River. Researchers measured travel and residence times and compared the findings with earlier tracer data to study changing flow conditions. The work also helped investigate links between river hydraulics, nutrient movement and increasing algal growth.

During a recent hearing on a repayment plan challenge, Subhash Chandra, chairman of Essel Group, contested the constitution of the NCLT bench, asserting that it does not possess the power to create such a bench. This critical argument was made as the appellate tribunal is scheduled to address the issues again soon, particularly after the NCLT bench had put a hold on the approval of the repayment plan.

Hyundai plans to launch two new SUVs in the expanding mainstream segment. These new vehicles will help the company grow ahead of the industry. Hyundai expects its electric vehicle penetration to reach industry levels by next year. The company is also scaling up production capacity at its plants. This strategic move aims to reclaim the second spot in the Indian car market.

State governments show strong backing for Computer Based Testing in entrance exams, emphasizing the need for reliable, government-supported testing facilities along with high quality standards. Discussions also revolved around a sustainable funding model for establishing these centers. Led by Nandan Nilekani, the task force is advocating for complete digitization of the process, with recommendations anticipated before October to prepare for the 2027 exam cycle.

Regional airline Fly91 has placed an order for forty new ATR-72 turboprop aircraft, which will drastically increase its fleet size. Anticipated deliveries will commence by late 2027, helping to fill the connectivity gap in tier-two and tier-three cities across India. To sustain this ambitious growth, Fly91 is also seeking additional funding to support its expansion strategies.

The Sports Ministry has greenlit a massive Indian delegation for the Asian Games, comprising 768 members, including 503 athletes and 246 officials. The athletics team is the largest contingent at 79 members plus 31 support personnel. India is poised to showcase its talents in 36 sports, with the opening ceremony set for September 19 in Japan.