The Economic Times

French proverb of the day: Life's core human elements remain constant despite rapid external shifts. This French proverb offers a perspective for navigating constant global disruption. Understanding unchanging human nature builds essential mental resilience for individuals. Focusing on timeless values like integrity provides stability in uncertain times. Embracing life's cycles allows for calm confidence and steady resilience.

India's airports can now handle over 580 million passengers annually against current traffic of 420 million, while airlines operate 860 aircraft and await delivery of 1,629 more on order.

Phil Collins faced a life-threatening health crisis due to alcohol addiction complications. His organs began shutting down during a hospitalization in Switzerland last year. Doctors and family members feared they might lose the legendary singer. He has remained sober since surviving this critical medical emergency. Collins also anticipates his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction.

Donald Trump appears unconcerned about midterm election outcomes for Republicans. He sees the post-election period as an opportunity to strengthen his party influence. Trump intends to shape the 2028 presidential race and future Republican leadership. He will leverage his political network and fundraising power beyond the presidency. Potential congressional oversight poses a significant post-election confrontation for his administration.

Militant groups in Pakistan are using a double tap strategy against security personnel. This tactic involves an initial attack followed by targeting reinforcements responding to the scene. Recent incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa highlight this evolving and deadly strategy. Terror-related deaths in July more than doubled, indicating a worsening security situation. The suicide bombing in Swat raised fresh concerns about renewed militant activity.

RoadGrid India received Rs13 crore funding from the Technology Development Board. This investment will establish a manufacturing facility for their patented electric vehicle charger. The plant aims to produce 2,000 chargers annually, creating over 100 jobs. Commercial production is expected to commence by March 2027. This initiative supports India's growing electric mobility sector.

Shadab Momin, a young man from Bhiwandi, dons a Spider-Man costume during monsoons. He actively assists residents by warning about potholes and pushing stalled vehicles. Videos show him carrying children across submerged streets, becoming a local legend. Momin uses his actions to highlight persistent flooding issues in the town. His efforts resonate with many who face similar monsoon-related challenges annually.

In 1953, a Wisconsin farmers grandfather bought a brand-new Allis-Chalmers WD for $2,200. Six decades later, his grandson tracked down the same tractor, bought it back and spent a year restoring the family machine, turning a piece of farm equipment into a treasured reminder of generations past. He said the tractor had sentimental values and his grandfather would be very happy.

Surrender and withdrawal benefits paid by life insurers have increased significantly. These benefits now exceed maturity benefits paid by the life insurance sector. Policy surrenders are influenced by various factors, including product suitability and affordability. The insurance regulator monitors these trends and takes necessary supervisory measures. IRDAI has established a framework to safeguard policyholders' interests and ensure fair surrender benefits.

NoBroker has been ordered to refund Rs 4,90,716 to a Hyderabad customer after a consumer commission found it collected the full contractual amount for home interior work, made repeated assurances of timely completion, and delivered an incomplete and substandard project, forcing the complainant's family to continue living on rent for several additional months.

The road ministry, on Monday, said it has issued a draft notification proposing amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, for the phased implementation of Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication systems in motor vehicles to provide vehicle manufacturers and other stakeholders adequate time to prepare for the implementation of the new requirements.

Celebrity fitness trainer Yasmin Karachiwala, who has worked with Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt, offers a healthy baked apple dessert recipe. This wholesome treat uses simple ingredients like honey and cinnamon for natural sweetness. She also previously shared a recipe for healthy coconut cookies. These cookies are made with desiccated coconut and almond flour. Both recipes provide guilt-free indulgence for sweet cravings.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will address students at IIMUN's conference on August 6. This event marks the organization's fifteenth anniversary and will host over two thousand students. The conference theme focuses on youth's role in uniting the world. This comes after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union education minister. His resignation followed protests against the NEET exam paper leak.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized integrating military and civil ministry components. He highlighted the need for synergy to address evolving security challenges. Civilian officers' expertise in cyber tools could benefit defence forces significantly. Singh stressed cross-exposure and joint training for better decision-making. The minister urged the cadre to focus on research and innovative ideas.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed no changes are planned for the Unified Pension Scheme. This scheme offers assured monthly payouts to Central government employees after retirement. The Unified Pension Scheme was introduced as an option under the National Pension System. It aims to provide adequate retirement benefits and pension predictability for employees. The government has also extended tax benefits and a one-way switch facility to UPS.

For years, students have been told that cracking IIT and completing an engineering degree is the safest path to a successful career. But a 22-year-old's viral story is making many question that belief. He claims to earn Rs 4.8 lakh a month after taking a completely different route, and says one decision changed everything. Here's what he did differently.

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez are reportedly marrying this weekend in Madeira. Reports suggest the ceremony will occur at Funchal Cathedral and a luxury hotel. Hotel guests were informed of venue closures for a private event. Madeira holds significant personal meaning for Ronaldo as his birthplace. The couple's engagement was announced in August 2025.

Indias electric vehicle market reached a record in July, with registrations rising over 66% year-on-year to around 3.3 lakh units, driven by high fuel prices, wider model availability and expanding dealer networks. Electric two-wheelers crossed 2 lakh monthly registrations for the first time, led by TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto.

India has proposed easing tax rules for offshore investment funds using India-based managers by removing size and investor limits, aiming to attract foreign capital and boost domestic fund management activity.

The Centre has proposed introducing a regulatory framework for two-wheeled road ambulances, which will become operational from October 1, 2027, to improve emergency medical access in rural, remote and hilly areas.

India's residential real estate market is showing mixed trends, with lower home loan rates improving buyer sentiment in many cities while affordability continues to remain a major challenge in Mumbai and the National Capital Region (NCR), according to a market outlook report by real estate developer NBR Group.

Brazilian proverbs remind us that appearances can be deceptive. A tree with many leaves does not always yield sweet fruit. Similarly, outward success does not guarantee inner kindness or wisdom. True value is revealed through consistent actions and character over time.

India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 will offer more funds by co-investing with venture capitalists. This initiative aims to attract diverse companies across the entire semiconductor value chain. The government will support design-linked incentives and encourage overseas citizen cardholders to participate. Significant research and development efforts will focus on advanced technology below 28 nanometers. The mission seeks to establish India as a reliable global player in chip manufacturing.

Rajasthan cyclist Harshita Jakhar made history by becoming the first Indian woman to feature at Tour de France Femmes. The 19-year-old, who began cycling on Patiala's roads, joined the UCI World Cycling Talent programme and is now targeting success at the 2026 Asian Games.

Kangana Ranaut's Manali mansion, reportedly acquired for Rs 30 crore, sits 2,000 metres above sea level in the Himalayas and features eight bedrooms, a rooftop glass conservatory, a yoga room, and mountain views from every room. Designed by Shabnam Gupta, the property was featured in Architectural Digest and has drawn wide attention on social media.

The Icelandic proverb When trouble or misfortune comes, it rarely comes... captures the familiar experience of facing several problems at once. Its meaning is that setbacks often seem to arrive in clusters, making difficult periods feel overwhelming. The saying remains relevant because financial stress, work problems or family difficulties can sometimes occur together. Rather than assuming hardship will last, the proverb encourages preparation, resilience and perspective. When challenges pile up

Florida is deploying solar-powered robot rabbits to lure invasive Burmese pythons. These AI-powered decoys imitate prey, using heat and scent to attract the giant snakes. Robotic rabbits will alert officials when a python approaches for easier capture and removal. This innovative project aims to strengthen ongoing efforts to control the python population. The initiative is a collaboration between the South Florida Water Management District and the University of Florida.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York President John Williams anticipates inflation will cool gradually. He believes current interest rate policy is well positioned for this outcome. However, Williams stated the Fed will raise rates if inflation does not slow. He does not foresee financial stability risks from artificial intelligence investments. Williams expects inflation to reach the 2% target by 2028.

Iran is pursuing a strategy of calibrated escalation to raise the economic and strategic costs for the US and its allies by threatening the Strait of Hormuz, key shipping lanes and energy infrastructure. Analysts say Tehran aims to strengthen its negotiating position, expand regional influence and force concessions without triggering a full-scale war, keeping global oil markets and trade on edge.

John Wooden Quote of the Day: John Wooden's wisdom encourages focusing on controllable actions. The American basketball legend taught players to master fundamentals within their own capabilities. This principle helps overcome self-doubt and build momentum. Modern anxieties are addressed by tuning out external comparisons. Prioritizing personal agency leads to meaningful growth and achievement.

Health insurance covers childhood illnesses and their treatments effectively. Vaccination support is a key preventive care strategy for families. Kidney function tests are covered when medically necessary for diagnosis. Reviewing policy sub-limits and network centers is crucial. Family floater plans offer cost-effective comprehensive household coverage.

A man's Rs 1.14 crore income tax payment sparked debate on taxpayer value in India. He chose to stay in India despite overseas job offers to care for parents. Many users feel taxpayers receive limited benefits for significant contributions to the nation. Concerns include inadequate social security, healthcare, and public infrastructure quality. The discussion questions India's tax structure balance between revenue and public services.

Retired IAS officer Anil Verma has been appointed chairman of the West Bengal Public Service Commission. The state government issued a notification on Monday confirming this significant appointment. Governor made this appointment under Article 316(1) of the Constitution of India. This appointment will officially take effect from the date Verma assumes charge. The Finance Department notification clearly stated the governor's pleasure in this appointment.

Wholesale price inflation rose to 9.87 percent in June. This increase was largely driven by global commodity and energy costs. The government is actively undertaking measures to control inflation and its impact. Retail inflation has remained below the four percent target for two quarters. India's retail inflation rose to 4.38 percent in June 2026.

10-year-old Japanese boy Jo Nagai noticed that the swallowtail butterflies he raised from caterpillars kept flying back to him after release. That observation led to a home experiment, a collaboration with a Georgetown University entomologist, and a 33-page research report that demonstrated insect memory can survive metamorphosis and pass across generations.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu once shared her simple hack for growing cabbage microgreens at home, saying all you need is a tray, cocopeat, seeds, water and a cool spot near a window. Microgreens are young edible greens that can be harvested within days. They are nutrient-dense, require little space and can be grown indoors. Beginners can fill a tray with cocopeat, sprinkle seeds, keep it moist, cover it for four days, then uncover and water daily. Samantha said they can be harvested from day eight.

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking directions to ensure the release of Cauvery water to the State, following the alleged failure of the Karnataka government to comply with the orders of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC).

On Monday, Youth Congress activists took to the streets in Nagpur to protest against E20 fuel, seeking to march to the home of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. The police intervened, detaining multiple protesters. The Congress party asserts that E20 fuel leads to vehicle harm and diminished mileage, referencing reports from consumers and mechanics that highlight vehicle-related issues.

Think your kitchen knife has lost its edge? This simple aluminum foil hack may help improve the performance of a slightly dull blade. Here's how to use it safely, along with tips to keep your knives sharper for longer.

The Lok Sabha passed a bill to increase Supreme Court judges without debate. Opposition members raised slogans against NEET paper leaks and temple donation theft. A statutory resolution denouncing the ordinance was rejected by a voice vote. After brief remarks, the bill was put to vote and subsequently cleared. The House was adjourned for the day after the bill's passage.

Pakistan has deployed Chinese SH-15 artillery guns along its India-facing formations. These 155mm guns enhance Pakistan's conventional firepower and artillery modernization efforts. Deliveries of these systems began in 2022, with local manufacturing also acquired. Pakistan also established an Army Rocket Force, expanding its strike capabilities. India continues its own artillery modernization with various new systems.

NBCC India has signed an agreement to construct 1,008 affordable homes. This project is located on Ile Aurore in the Republic of Seychelles. The Export-Import Bank of India will fund the development with a USD 75 million line of credit. Construction of the housing units and associated infrastructure will commence soon. This initiative aims to provide much-needed affordable housing solutions for the island nation.

Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran warned that offering utilities like water below cost undermines infrastructure, encourages waste and weakens investment. Speaking at the CII Tamil Nadu Infrastructure Summit, he said users must pay fair prices while the government should directly support the vulnerable.

Two months after the RBI launched special measures to attract foreign currency, banks have mobilised over $40 billion, led by FCNR(B) deposits, with economists projecting inflows could reach $100 billion. The programme is aimed at strengthening India's external defences and ensuring dollar liquidity during global volatility, rather than boosting the rupee, which has remained largely unchanged.

Garden Reach Shipbuilders secured a significant Rs 1,032 crore contract from ONGC. This agreement involves the construction of four advanced Platform Supply Vessels. These vessels will feature a hybrid propulsion system and advanced battery technology. The project diversifies GRSE's portfolio into the commercial offshore vessel segment. This initiative will bolster India's indigenous shipbuilding and offshore energy infrastructure capabilities.

King Charles Quotes: King Charles III's quote highlights the importance of caring deeply about issues that matter. He suggests that people who genuinely care and speak up for change may sometimes be seen as dangerous because they challenge the status quo. The sentiment reflects his decades of advocacy on environmental and social issues. Ultimately, the quote encourages engagement, thoughtful action and the courage to stand by one's convictions, while recognising that meaningful progress is best

Simu Liu once shared that he lost his accounting job at Deloitte, which unexpectedly changed his life. He was escorted out of the office, feeling deeply embarrassed and devastated. This painful experience pushed him to pursue his lifelong dream of acting professionally. After leaving the corporate world, Liu gained fame. Read on to know more about his journey.

Higher monetary limits for tax appeals have reduced disputed tax demand by about 16,690 crore, with over 23,000 departmental cases withdrawn or not filed across ITAT, high courts and the Supreme Court.