The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Rahul Gandhi stated Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation was superficial as the RSS controls the education ministry. He claimed RSS influences all Indian universities and burdens poorer families significantly. Gandhi criticized the government's handling of student protests and the home minister's absence. He also dismissed the RSS's historical perspectives as nonsensical and hollow. Gandhi categorized people as students, idiots, and andhbhakts to frame his arguments.
A village cricket match saw a fielder allegedly fake a wicket with a finger snap. Footage of the incident went viral online, sparking widespread debate. Investigators are now examining the suspicious circumstances surrounding the dismissal. The wicketkeeper's unusually high catch count also raised significant questions. This unusual event has captured global attention within the cricketing community.
Demonstrating remarkable resilience, India's economy witnesses a comprehensive recovery across sectors, coupled with an increase in industrial credit. Private sector investment is perking up, fueled by proactive government policies. Indicators reflect stable or improving growth trends in different economic domains. Nonetheless, macroeconomic uncertainty looms from external elements like oil prices and seasonal monsoon rains, but these risks remain manageable, revealing a complex landscape of gro
India faces significant energy security risks from chokepoint disruptions. A dual closure could push Brent crude prices to $130-135 per barrel. This scenario threatens inflation and the Indian rupee's stability. Smaller businesses are particularly exposed to rising costs and liquidity stress. Global supply chains and India's trade balance would experience severe impacts.
The Lok Sabha recently saw the introduction of a pivotal Bill focused on enhancing the regulations for the registration of births and deaths. This initiative aims to urge citizens to report these vital events without delay. Instances of registration lagging by one to two years will require a magistrate's consent, while delays surpassing two years will necessitate directives from a judicial magistrate.
Gland Pharma secured USFDA approval for its sugammadex injection generic version. This drug reverses muscle relaxant effects used during surgical procedures. The approval covers two specific strengths of the single-dose vial product. This new generic is bioequivalent to Merck's BRIDION injection. The product had significant US sales in the past year.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru has surpassed a $300 million brand value milestone. The Indian Premier League's overall business valuation climbed to $20.6 billion this year. This growth underscores the tournament's increasing commercial appeal and global investor confidence. Recent franchise transactions have reset valuation benchmarks for the league. Global investors now view franchises as scalable sports and entertainment businesses.
The Indian women's hockey team has departed for Germany for final World Cup preparations. They will play practice matches against Germany before heading to the Netherlands. The team aims to fine-tune combinations and adapt to European conditions. India begins its World Cup campaign against China on August sixteenth. Captain Salima Tete expressed confidence in the squad's determination.
Sabeer Bhatia booked a high-end apartment in India back in 2012. The property's construction remains unfinished after more than a decade. Builders now project a handover date of 2032, which is twenty years later. This situation highlights concerns about trust in commercial dealings across the country. The entrepreneur expressed disappointment with the prolonged and uncertain property delivery.
Fast-track courts were established to clear case backlogs and address public outrage. These courts have disposed of millions of cases over two decades. However, systemic issues continue to hinder speedy justice delivery. Investigations, prosecution, and forensic capacity also need improvement. Courtroom reform alone has not ensured faster justice for all.
The Supreme Court has closed a criminal case against former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. This decision follows the acceptance of a closure report filed by the CBI. The court found no reason for the trial court judge to reject the CBI's findings. Industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla and ex-coal secretary P C Parakh were also involved. The Supreme Court's intervention stayed the earlier court directive summoning the accused.
The Trump administration missed a deadline to ask the Supreme Court for a rehearing. This request concerned the president's birthright citizenship restrictions which were rejected. The Supreme Court's decision in June struck down the executive order. Three justices had supported the president's plan while one found it violated federal law. The court has not granted a rehearing petition in over fifty years.
An Indian expat in Paris shared challenges of moving abroad. Social media often omits financial burdens and job search difficulties. Adapting to new languages and cultures requires significant personal effort. Leaving family behind also presents emotional and practical hurdles. Clear goals, not online perceptions, should guide such life decisions.
Devyani International has achieved a quarterly profit surge, nearly quadrupling thanks to robust sales performance. As the operator of KFC and Pizza Hut in India, the company recorded a consolidated net profit of 146.5 million rupees, highlighting a dramatic improvement in its fiscal health compared to the previous year.
Mondelez International exceeded revenue and profit expectations for the second quarter. Steady demand for biscuits and chocolates, along with higher pricing, boosted results. The company raised its annual organic revenue growth forecast to at least two percent. North America saw pricing increases and modest volume growth during the period.
Sonam Wangchuk recently ended a hunger strike for examination reforms. His Ladakh home showcases sustainable architecture using mud walls and natural insulation. Passive solar technology and a lack wall with water bottles provide warmth. An open kitchen design and waterless sanitation highlight thoughtful innovation. This approach blends traditional wisdom with modern environmental consciousness.
The Supreme Court dismissed Odisha's plea against the animated film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' release. Animation is a new art form for children and should not be curtailed. The court allowed the film's release after the Jagannath Yatra festivities concluded. Earlier, the High Court had stayed the movie's screening due to objections. Filmmakers invested heavily and faced significant financial losses if delayed.
Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has charged Telegram founder Pavel Durov with facilitating terrorist activities, accusing the messaging platform of failing to remove content allegedly used for terrorism, sabotage and cyber-fraud inside Russia. The FSB has also issued an international arrest warrant. Telegram has not commented, while Durov continues to deny wrongdoing in separate investigations by French authorities.
Korean home design focuses on harmony, simplicity and creating peaceful spaces. Inspired by concepts like Hanok, Yeobaek and Ondol, it combines natural materials, mindful minimalism and warmth. Hanok brings nature indoors through wood, light and open layouts, while Yeobaek celebrates empty space. Ondol-inspired dcor adds comfort through soft textures and warm lighting. Korean interiors also use earthy colours, smart storage and meaningful objects to create homes that feel calm, functional and em
India's organ transplant situation is dire, with 3.9 lakh needed just in 2021, emphasizing the escalating demand. Unfortunately, only a fraction of necessary kidney and liver transplants were executed, and the distribution of these surgeries is heavily skewed towards a few states. Additionally, while women participate in organ donation, they receive significantly fewer transplants than their health conditions require.
The Supreme Court has quashed the Centre's 2021 Office Memorandum regarding retrospective environmental clearances. This significant order constrains firms from commencing projects without prior environmental approval. The judgement will apply prospectively, leaving earlier green nods undisturbed by the court.
Dolly Parton inspires by refusing external limitations on her capabilities. She consistently breaks molds and proves identity is not confined. Parton's career spans music, acting, and philanthropy, showcasing reinvention. Her journey challenges conformity and encourages embracing versatility as a strength. The life lesson emphasizes pursuing passions unapologetically and honoring one's own vision.
The US FCC has banned imports of Chinese humanoid robots due to security concerns. This move targets China's dominant position in the global robotics market. Analysts estimate Chinese robots hold an 85 percent global market share. The decision could strain US-China technological competition and future collaborations. China's domestic manufacturing base supports its continued development and other export markets.
Country singer Megan Moroney cut short her Denver concert at Ball Arena on July 28 after falling ill, performing only three songs before leaving the stage. She later apologised to fans, saying she could not deliver a full performance. According to Billboard, the show has been rescheduled for August 27, with all original tickets remaining valid. The cancelled concert was part of her Cloud 9 Tour, her biggest arena tour featuring over 40 shows through October.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited has secured a significant order from Nigeria's Dangote Refinery. This order involves supplying eight gas turbine generator packages for their petrochemical facility. The company will also supervise the erection and commissioning of these vital equipment. This contract represents BHEL's largest single order for gas turbine generators globally. The successful execution will further boost BHEL's international engineering enterprise reputation.
Manu Bhaker expressed mixed feelings about her recent 25m pistol bronze medal win. She acknowledged potential for improvement while noting her hard work is showing results. Bhaker secured a 10m air pistol mixed team silver earlier this year in Munich. She is now preparing for the Asian Games in Japan. Bhaker previously won a team gold at the last Asian Games.
New Zealand's government has issued its first offshore petroleum exploration permit. This action follows the reversal of a ban previously imposed by the former Labour government. Resources Minister Shane Jones stated the permit signifies the nation's openness for business. Australian company EnZed Energy received the permit for the Taranaki Basin. Several other companies have applied for exploration rights ahead of elections.
Jim Carrey quote of the day: Hollywood actor Jim Carrey's quote on life's challenges. He believes difficulties are invitations for personal growth and connection. Carrey's perspective shifted from victimhood to empowerment and inner connection. His early life and career shaped his resilient and humorous outlook. This outlook encourages embracing life's journey with faith and purpose.
A Kerala consumer commission has ordered Flipkart to pay Rs 38,990 to a Kannur woman after finding that the Xiaomi phone delivered to her in March 2023 carried a warranty start date of July 2022, eight months before she received it. The commission ruled Flipkart had sold a previously used, defective phone as new and rejected its claim that it was merely an intermediary.
The FAA is proposing new rules to speed up commercial space mission approvals. These changes aim to simplify licensing by waiving environmental law requirements. Currently, license applications can take up to thirty-six months for full approval. The agency seeks to reduce duplicative processes and needless delays for launch operations. This move follows a presidential executive order to accelerate the licensing process.
Rajasthan is building a new water sector model through transformative initiatives. The Ramjal Setu Link Project and Yamuna Water Agreement will secure drinking water. The state is investing in major water infrastructure projects across various regions. Flagship schemes are strengthening drinking water infrastructure and rural supply. Water conservation is a shared responsibility for future generations.
Odisha launched a massive evacuation drive for over one lakh flood-affected people. Rescue and relief operations are underway in four north Odisha districts. Senior officials are overseeing flood management efforts across vulnerable regions. Educational institutions in six districts have been closed for safety.
Inox Wind has secured a significant 200 MW order from NLC India Limited. This substantial project is valued at approximately Rs 1,600 crore and will be completed within two years. The company will handle the entire project execution on a turnkey basis. This new order boosts Inox Wind's total order book to 4.7 GW. The company continues to strengthen its position in India's renewable energy sector.
Biocon received Health Canada approval for its Yesintek autoinjector. This new format offers patients a convenient treatment option for psoriasis. The autoinjector is also indicated for psoriatic arthritis and Crohn's disease. This approval strengthens Biocon's immunology product portfolio in Canada. The company aims to increase patient access to affordable medicines globally.
ACME Solar secured financing from Power Finance Corporation for its renewable energy project. This funding will support the development and construction of the ACME Urja One project. The project combines solar, wind, and battery storage technologies for reliable power supply. It is expected to be commissioned next year and has a 25-year power purchase agreement. This financing brings ACME Solar's total funding raised this fiscal year to Rs 6,051 crore.
International graduates are increasingly considering returning to India after their studies abroad. Students cite India's economic growth and investor confidence as key influencing factors. A salary of fifty lakh rupees in India offers similar savings as one hundred fifty thousand pounds in London. Growth opportunities and stability appear stronger in India for these graduates. This trend suggests a potential everse brain drain is emerging for the nation.
China's central bank injected significant funds into the banking system. The People's Bank of China conducted overnight and seven-day reverse repo operations. This move aimed to manage short-term liquidity conditions flexibly. The borrowing cost for overnight operations remained unchanged from previous actions. Seven-day reverse repo rates are considered the primary policy rate.
Fragrant plants can transform a work-from-home space into a calmer and more refreshing environment. Varieties like lavender, gardenia, lemon balm, ylang-ylang and rosemary offer unique scents from different parts of the world. From lavenders soothing aroma to rosemarys refreshing fragrance, these plants can add greenery while creating a more pleasant workspace. With proper sunlight and care, aromatic plants can make long workdays feel more comfortable and inviting.
Kazakhstan's ambassador expressed keen interest in expanding business engagement with West Bengal. The nation views West Bengal as a crucial gateway to northeast India and Southeast Asia. Cooperation is sought across pharmaceuticals, mining, energy, and manufacturing sectors. A high-level business delegation will visit India in September for discussions. Kazakhstan offers a conducive environment for entrepreneurs exploring new opportunities.
A Kannur consumer commission has ordered Parle Biscuits and a local hypermarket to jointly pay Rs 50,000 in compensation and litigation costs to a Kerala man who bought a Rs 25 packet of Parle 20-20 Butter Cookies advertised as 150 grams, only to find it weighed just 125 grams. A government lab confirmed the shortfall.
During an interview with R Madhavan, banker Sarthak Ahuja explained how men and women often approach money differently. He shared a clients story where a wife asked her husband to buy gold equal to every car he purchased, helping him control expenses and build wealth. While the cars depreciated, the gold accumulated over years. Ahuja said women often provide a financial balance in families by safeguarding wealth while others take risks.
India's Steel Authority of India and Indonesia's Krakatau Steel will invest $350 million. A new stainless steel slab plant in Indonesia will have 500,000 tons capacity. This plant is expected to become operational within three to four years. SAIL will consume the entire output for its Salem plant in India. Finished products will primarily supply Indian customers and some exports.
Iran has rejected Oman's proposal for joint management of the Strait of Hormuz. A senior Iranian official stated the plan has no chance of success. The official added that the US and Saudi Arabia are pressuring Oman. They are trying to advance their unrealistic plans for the strategic waterway. Tehran believes these plans are not feasible for regional cooperation.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor has launched its new ninth-generation Hilux in India. This new model strengthens Toyota's SUV portfolio with its bold design and robust engineering. The Hilux features a powerful 2.8-litre diesel engine and advanced four-wheel-drive capabilities. It also offers modern connectivity and comprehensive safety features for enhanced driving. This vehicle aims to meet diverse customer needs for utility and lifestyle experiences.
Championing a 'maximum pressure' strategy on Cuba, Secretary of State Marco Rubio reveals a personal and professional commitment to the cause. The United States has ramped up sanctions and economic blockades against the country. Rubio highlights the Cuban government's failures and mismanagement while voicing his hope for an improved future for its citizens.
Ukraine and Iran's foreign ministers spoke by phone on Tuesday regarding an attack. Kyiv stated its goal is to avoid unnecessary escalation after the incident. Iran had previously warned of unforeseen consequences following the Caspian Sea vessel strike. Ukraine emphasized its actions defend against Russian aggression, not target civilians. Both nations aim to prevent further provocations and support for Russia's war.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu urged officials to accelerate Amaravati capital city construction. He stressed speed, quality, and timely delivery for all ongoing projects. The Chief Minister reviewed 95 projects valued at over Rs 50,000 crore. He directed departments to coordinate for resolving land and funding issues. Naidu also emphasized integrating Amaravati with Vijayawada and Guntur for broader development.

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