The Economic Times

India's wholesale inflation surged to a record 9.9 percent in June. Fuel and power prices rose significantly, contributing most to this increase. Food inflation also climbed to an eighteen-month high, impacting the overall index. This rise occurred while retail inflation also showed an upward trend.

Companies may soon claim input tax credit on employee vehicles. Group health and life insurance policies for staff are also included. The GST Council's law committee proposed these changes last week. These proposals aim to ease business operations and reduce costs. The GST Council will consider these reforms in an upcoming meeting.

Psychology says people who forget the names of acquaintances but just remember their faces aren't always dealing with poor memory. Research shows that the human brain often processes faces and names through different memory systems. Many people recognize someone immediately but struggle to recall their name. This behavior has links to how memory works, attention, recall, and social interactions rather than a lack of intelligence or interest.

Quote of the Day by James Watt offers more than inspiration. It reveals the timeless mindset behind every lasting achievement. James Watt transformed the steam engine through years of careful improvement, helping power the Industrial Revolution and reshape modern industry. His famous words remind us that great discoveries grow from patience, hard work, curiosity, resilience, and quiet determination.

India's formal services sector began the new fiscal year strongly in April. Fourteen of nineteen sectors tracked by the new Index of Service Production showed growth. Accommodation and food services led this expansion, growing over thirty-seven percent year-on-year. Retail trade and administrative support services also posted significant double-digit increases.

Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthis are nearing renewed conflict after recent attacks. Houthi fighters claimed large-scale strikes on Saudi Arabia, ending a four-year truce. The Yemeni government's backer, Riyadh, is prepared to retaliate against Houthi infrastructure targets. This escalation risks further destabilizing the Middle East region and its fault lines. Ordinary Yemenis fear the prospect of further fighting after years of hardship.

Retail prices are rising due to reduced sowing of key kharif crops. Inflation has increased for rice, oilseeds, and major pulses in June. Acreage for these crops declined significantly compared to last year. Traders are holding produce, limiting supply and pushing prices higher. Below normal rainfall further exacerbates concerns about future availability.

Quote of the day by Marcus Junius Brutus: Marcus Junius Brutus's famous speech explores loyalty versus duty. He explained his actions were for Rome, not hatred of Caesar. This classic literary moment highlights difficult leadership choices and sacrifice. Brutus's words remain relevant, teaching about justice and responsibility.

India has amended its foreign trade policy to ban goods produced using forced labour. This move comes amid a US investigation into forced labour practices globally. The new policy prohibits imports of goods manufactured wholly or in part through forced labour. This prohibition will take effect after a 30-day period from its official gazette publication. The government can issue notifications to ban specific goods based on evidence of forced labour.

Mini car sales saw a significant increase last quarter, doubling after a three-year slump. This surge followed recent Goods and Services Tax rate reductions, making these vehicles more affordable. Entry hatchbacks, under 3.6 meters, experienced a 107% rise in sales year-on-year. Previously, sales had dropped by 62% from their peak due to rising costs. The market now shows renewed demand for these economical vehicles.

While the government is trying to ensure that the final report is released quickly, establishing the truth behind the crash remained its top priority, the minister said.

The government is considering allowing professional bodies to regulate their members within multidisciplinary partnerships. This approach would enable existing watchdogs to oversee chartered accountants and company secretaries. Such a framework aims to facilitate the creation of larger Indian professional services firms. These firms could then better compete with global giants in the audit market.

It is the first competitive meeting of the sides since the 2002 World Cup and the fixture conjures so many memories, from Diego Maradona and the 'Hand of God' in 1986, to David Beckham's red card after tangling with Diego Simeone in 1998, while also thrusting the lingering sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands back into the spotlight.

Startup founder Koby Conrad moved his business to Buenos Aires, Argentina. He found a more affordable life and greater peace of mind there. Conrad believes San Francisco remains unmatched for technology and innovation. He still travels to San Francisco for business and plans to raise his family. His company's strategy combines teams in both locations.

Psychology says people who keep playing with their hair or setting it up after short intervals of time aren't always absent-minded or uninterested. Psychology explains that this habit can be linked to self-soothing, emotional regulation, stress management, body-focused repetitive behaviors, or simple grooming. The meaning depends on the situation and the person's emotional state. Understanding the behavior can help people avoid making quick judgments and encourage better awareness of everyday ha

Parenting evolves as children grow, requiring adjusted approaches for each developmental stage. Infants need nurturing and a secure foundation for early brain development. Toddlers explore independence and curiosity through guided learning and safe environments. Preschoolers develop greater confidence and social skills with consistent guidance and clear expectations. Positive parenting fosters safe, supported, and confident children through every childhood phase.

The banking sector led by far with 20 names in the top 100 list. However, diversified groups, mostly legacy conglomerates, were far ahead in terms of value, with just nine corporate brands taking up a combined 35% share and banks cornering 21%.

India and the UK are discussing Britain's carbon tax regulation. The new free trade agreement ensures market access for India's steel sector. Around eighty percent of India's steel exports will enjoy zero-duty access. This comprehensive trade pact aims for one hundred billion dollars in trade.

Air India Express Abu Dhabi service will operate thrice weekly, connecting travelers directly to the UAE. The airport's international services began over six months after domestic operations commenced. This expansion strengthens connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Gujarat Forest Department achieved success with Indian Grey Hornbill reintroduction. Forty birds were released in two phases between 2021 and 2023. These hornbills have established territories and successfully produced offspring. Their shrinking home ranges and stable habitat use show progress. This indicates the program is moving towards a self-sustaining population.

The decline was primarily driven by a sharp fall in palm oil imports, which dropped 10.5% from the previous month as the price gap between palm oil and other edible oils narrowed significantly. Soyabean oil imports also fell 23%. A sharp 18-20% year-on-year increase in international prices of major cooking oils, driven by their diversion for biofuel production and an 11% depreciation of the Indian rupee also weighed on imports.

New draft rules propose telecom-style regulation for broadcasting services and internet television, leaving broadcasters worried about internet inclusion in terrestrial transmission and IPTV definitions. Stricter penalties and authorisation requirements have also raised significant industry concerns. consulting on regulating application-based linear television distribution services.

Moroccan Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of One who is not moved by words is not moved by the stick. The saying reflects the importance of being willing to listen to advice, accept guidance, and learn through understanding rather than being forced by consequences. It suggests that people who ignore reason and constructive feedback are unlikely to change even when faced with punishment or hardship. The proverb emphasizes that true wisdom begins with an open mind, personal responsibility

India supports Palestine's United Nations membership bid and a two-state solution. Fresh humanitarian aid for Palestinians was announced by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. India also pledged support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. New Delhi committed to establishing a specialty hospital and vocational training institute.

By the year 2030, Ikea aims to invest close to eleven thousand crore rupees in India, launching twenty-five stores of varying sizes across the nation. The Ingka Group's commitment includes over seven thousand five hundred crore rupees for new facilities in Gurugram and Noida, set to open in 2027 and 2028. Additionally, Ikea is looking into collaboration opportunities for its existing land assets.

The cumulative export of textiles and apparel during April to June 2026 registered a de-growth of -2.95% over April-June 2025. During June 2026, textile exports increased by 9.64% over the previous year, while apparel exports registered a significant degrowth of -11.25%, said CITI in a statement.

In a bid to strengthen consumer protection, India's food regulatory body is intensifying efforts against packaged food companies. The lack of clarity around definitions and guidelines for emerging ingredients poses a pressing concern. Executives from the sector are urging the need for revised definitions and clearer regulations. To meet these demands, the authority has restructured its scientific panels to create standards rooted in science, facilitating smoother operations for manufacturers.

India's esports market is expanding into a multi-game sector with growing publisher investments. Regulatory clarity is encouraging more game launches and ecosystem development across India. The gaming industry is projected to reach $2.4 billion by 2029 with 600 million gamers. JioBLAST is diversifying its offerings to cater to this evolving competitive landscape.

Kpop star Jackson Wang once revealed that the secret to his flawless skin was not the famous 10-step Korean beauty regimen, but a simple vegan drink, composed of mostly common kitchen ingredients.

Industry executives said India should be able to source alternative crude and LNG supplies, albeit at higher prices. LPG supplies, however, which depend heavily on imports from the Gulf, could again come under strain. One executive also warned that the renewed conflict has introduced deeper uncertainties at a time when global inventories have already been depleted after months of stock drawdowns.

Hollywood tentpole films are expected to boost Indian box office collections significantly. A cluster of major releases arriving within a fortnight promises robust audience engagement. Diverse themes and popular franchises like Spider-Man and The Odyssey will drive strong viewer interest. These films will be showcased extensively across premium large-format screens for maximum impact. Industry analysts estimate these four films could collectively contribute close to four hundred crore rupees.

Quote of the Day by Stephen Covey: Stephen R. Covey's famous quote, Motivation is a fire from within. If someone else tries to light that fire under you, chances are it will burn very briefly, reminds people that genuine motivation cannot be borrowed from someone else. The author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People believed that lasting success comes from purpose, discipline and personal responsibility rather than temporary encouragement.

India's new trade pact with the UK offers significant export chances for manufacturers. Lower tariffs will benefit sectors like textiles, leather, and processed foods. Indian companies must meet stringent quality standards for sustained export growth. The agreement also improves access for Indian professionals and service providers. British exporters will see phased reductions in India's automobile import duties.

India has launched its campaign for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat. External affairs minister S Jaishankar unveiled the SHANTI framework for global governance. India's priorities include the Voice of the Global South and reformed multilateralism. The nation will promote future-ready peacekeeping and address AI threats.

In a recent initiative, the BSF director general evaluated border security protocols and connected with local residents. Simultaneously, Punjab Police arrested two suspects linked to cross-border narcotics trafficking, seizing 30 kilograms of heroin. Reportedly, these suspects were acting under the guidance of a handler based abroad, and investigations are currently being expanded to identify further ties.

In response to CCTV footage capturing two potential infiltrators, security forces initiated a thorough search operation in Rajouri's Thanamandi region. The operation, a strategic alliance involving the Army, police, and CRPF, traverses multiple villages. Concurrently, authorities seized a drone found in Samba district's fields, now undergoing forensic examination to ascertain its source and purpose. The threat of foreign infiltration remains a pressing concern for security agencies in Jammu and

India summoned Iran's deputy envoy after an Iranian strike killed one Indian national. Ten other Indian seafarers sustained injuries in the attack on two UAE oil tankers. The vessels were struck while transiting the southern passage of the Strait of Hormuz. This incident follows another attack on a commercial vessel carrying Indian nationals.

Quote of the day by Dwayne Johnson highlights the importance of paying attention to progress instead of temporary pain. The quote teaches that success comes from daily effort, patience and consistency. It explains how changing perspective can help people face setbacks, achieve long-term goals and build resilience. The message remains useful for students, professionals, athletes and anyone working toward personal or professional growth.

The Supreme Court has issued a notice on a plea challenging the Madhya Pradesh High Court's verdict declaring the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and prohibiting namaz. While denying an interim order to restore the status quo, the bench granted limited relief, allowing namaz on Fridays between 1 PM and 3 PM at an adjacent open space.

India clinched a convincing six-wicket win against England in the first ODI match. Shubman Gill was the standout performer, scoring a robust eighty runs, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar added essential unbeaten half-centuries to seal the victory. After England struggled to recover and posted 258 runs, India showcased effective batting to chase down the target in just 45.2 overs.

Japanese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of One time, one meeting. The saying reflects how every encounter in life is unique and valuable, shaped by the people, emotions, and circumstances involved at that particular moment. It suggests that even ordinary meetings can carry special significance because the exact experience can never be repeated in the same way. The proverb encourages people to appreciate relationships, stay present, and approach every interaction with respect, gratitud

Quote of the day by Mariah Carey: Mariah Carey's quote emphasizes genuine love over financial success. She humorously compares feeling like an ATM machine with a wig. Authentic relationships are built on sincerity and mutual respect. Money and status cannot create true affection or lasting connections.

Arunachal Pradesh and Norway's Tidal Sail AS signed an MoU for a river kinetic energy project. This initiative will establish India's first river kinetic energy demonstration plant in the state. The project aims to generate electricity directly from river currents, offering a sustainable solution. It will diversify the state's renewable energy portfolio and explore decentralized power generation.

A significant development occurred as a special NIA court issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Hafiz Saeed, in connection with the ongoing probe into the April 2025 Pahalgam attack. This legal action was prompted by the submission of an additional chargesheet against the infamous head of Lashkar-e-Taiba, labeled a global terrorist. Obtaining his arrest is crucial for advancing the investigation and ensuring justice.

A wagging dog tail does not always mean a happy dog. It can also signal excitement, stress, fear, or uncertainty. Understanding dog body language is becoming more important as millions of Americans share their homes with pets. Veterinarians and dog behavior experts say the tail is only one part of a dog's communication. Watch the ears, eyes, posture, and movement together.