The Economic Times

Greer told the Senate Finance Committee that the investigations examined the top 60 US trading partners for failing to adopt and effectively enforce import bans on goods produced with forced labour. As soon as tomorrow, USTR will release its final responsive action on its Section 301 investigation of our top 60 trading partners' failure to address international trade in forced goods at their borders, he said.

Quote of the day by Luise Rainer: Happiness often lies in moments we do not recognize while living them. We may only realize our happiness later when the moment has passed. Luise Rainer's quote suggests appreciating the present is important. She was a German-born actress who won two consecutive Academy Awards.

Consumer prices rose 2.6% in the 12 months to June, down from 2.8% in May and the lowest annual rate since March 2025, the Office for National Statistics said Wednesday. The reading was below economists' median forecast of 2.7% and marked the third straight month inflation undershot expectations.

Head constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi was killed in a suspected terrorist attack in Anantnag. The incident occurred in the busy Lal Chowk market area on Wednesday. Over two thousand suspects have been detained or questioned in connection with this attack. Preliminary investigation suggests a new group, United Liberation Council, claimed responsibility. Police are investigating whether the attacker was local or a foreigner.

India has achieved a 42% decline in undernourished people over two decades. The number of Indians unable to afford a healthy diet also fell significantly. This progress outpaces global trends in tackling hunger and malnutrition. However, the cost of a healthy diet has risen by over a third. These findings are based on a new report by the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization.

A new bill proposes safeguarding foreign-funded assets when NGO registrations lapse or cease. Revised rules link registration to specific purposes and approved states, excluding proselytisation. Assets will vest provisionally with a Designated Authority and return if registration is restored. If not restored, assets will permanently apply to public purposes after sale. The bill also clarifies automatic registration cessation and reduces penalties for violations.

Quote of the day by Katharine Hepburn reminds people that success depends on completing what they begin instead of only making a strong start. The quote explains the value of resilience, perseverance, determination, endurance, execution and commitment. Katharine Hepburn's life and career reflected this message through many challenges, career setbacks and achievements. The quote continues to inspire people working toward personal, educational and professional goals.

Mauritius cabinet ratified a tax protocol granting Indian officials more questioning powers. This allows direct challenges to offshore entities suspected of tax evasion. The principal purpose test will deny treaty benefits if tax avoidance is a primary aim. This change follows the Tiger Global verdict and strengthens genuine substance requirements. The protocol aims to ensure treaty benefits are for legitimate commercial purposes.

Japanese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Peoples rumors last seventy-five days. The saying reflects how gossip, public opinions, and social attention are often temporary rather than permanent. It suggests that even when people talk about someones actions, choices, or mistakes, such discussions usually fade with time. The proverb encourages individuals to stay focused on their values, avoid being controlled by outside judgment, and remember that lasting respect is built through chara

The BCCI has significantly raised its reserve prices for title and associate sponsorship rights. New bids are now invited for these valuable commercial properties. The title sponsorship cycle runs until March 2028, covering many international matches. This move aligns with other BCCI commercial deals due for renewal. The board seeks to maximize revenue from its key sporting assets.

The Trust received over five thousand applications for the chief executive officer position. A committee requested an additional month to complete the selection process. The Trust also decided to appoint a secretary for temple management purposes. A spokesperson will be appointed to manage communication with the media. A religious committee was re-constituted to ensure proper worship traditions.

India extended a solar cell sourcing exemption for certain projects by seven months. Local manufacturers express concerns about this decision impacting investor confidence and production planning. The exemption allows open access and net metering projects to use imported solar cells. This move aims to protect standalone module makers and support domestic capacity growth. The government maintains its commitment to promoting local solar manufacturing.

Industrial Training Institutes have seen significant growth in numbers and capacity. Ethanol blending has not caused widespread vehicle engine failures, according to reports. The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana has improved job outcomes for trainees. Niti Aayog has spent over nineteen crore rupees on research projects. Thousands of kilometers of high-speed corridors have been completed and are under construction.

Global streaming shows now dictate Indian jewellery preferences, replacing Bollywood's influence. Young shoppers seek designs inspired by Bridgerton and Emily in Paris series. Rising gold prices also encourage consumers towards lighter, more wearable diamond jewellery. Millennials and Gen Z view jewellery as personal style and self-expression. This shift reshapes India's significant diamond jewellery market.

India is developing its own high-speed rail signalling protocol, the Bharat Train Control System. This system will be tailored for Indian conditions and reduce foreign technology dependence. Designs and route plans for future bullet-train corridors are expected by mid-2027. The new protocol will be open-source and cost-effective for nationwide deployment. Domestic suppliers will benefit from the country's own high-speed train operation protocols.

Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd's liabilities will reach 40,000 crore by 2025-26. The company holds non-core assets valued at approximately 50,000 crore. Government measures have ensured MTNL remains Ebitda positive since 2020-21. Its Ebitda is projected to steadily improve over the next few years. This financial and administrative support aids in managing company liabilities.

Actor Salman Khan voiced support for students protesting alleged examination paper leaks. He described the movement as peaceful and urged it remain apolitical. Khan expressed sadness over the protest's violent turn and solidarity with injured students. He praised students for demanding educational reforms and a better future. The actor encouraged focusing on student concerns, not political interests.

Quote of the Day by David Hume: David Hume's famous quote, There is no such thing as freedom of choice unless there is freedom to refuse, explores the true meaning of liberty, personal responsibility and consent. The Scottish philosopher argues that a decision only has value when a person genuinely has the option to reject it. His words continue to remain relevant in discussions around personal freedom, relationships, workplaces and everyday decision-making. The idea is closely linked to Hume's

Phrase of the day: The idiom 'bite the bullet' means facing difficult situations bravely. This expression likely originated from battlefield surgeries without any anaesthetic. Patients would bite a bullet to distract themselves from intense pain. Rudyard Kipling's novel 'The Light that Failed' contains an early written example.

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch the updated Brezza facelift on July 24. The company has already commenced accepting bookings for the SUV ahead of its official unveiling. Reports suggest the refreshed Brezza will feature exterior updates and additional new features. A new 1-litre turbo-petrol engine option is also expected to be introduced. The updated Brezza will compete against several rivals in the compact SUV segment.

India voiced strong concern for seafarer safety in the Black Sea region. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Russian counterpart to discuss bilateral ties. New Delhi summoned the Russian Charge d'Affaires over the MV Golden Leo incident. Experts advise Indian seafarers to avoid ships in the Black Sea. This meeting preceded President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's youngest daughter, Vivienne, has filed a legal petition to remove Pitt from her surname, becoming the latest of the former couple's children to do so. Here's a look at which siblings have already made the change, what court documents reveal, and why the family has once again become the focus of public attention.

The Quad nations backed ASEAN's Indo-Pacific vision through cooperation. They met in Manila to discuss maritime and economic security initiatives. This meeting aimed to secure ASEAN's support for regional stability efforts. India emphasized ASEAN's central role in its Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. Key defense and trade agreements were also finalized between India and the US.

Psychologists say the healthiest way to deal with anger is neither to lash out nor to suppress it completely. Instead, they recommend practicing assertive communication, expressing your thoughts and emotions honestly while respecting both your own needs and those of others.

Quote of the Day by Arnold Schwarzenegger: Arnold Schwarzeneggers quote, Bodybuilding is much like any other sport. To be successful, you must dedicate yourself 100% to your training, diet and mental approach, explores the importance of discipline, commitment, and a strong mindset in achieving success. The quote suggests that reaching any goal requires complete dedication, consistent effort, and proper preparation rather than relying only on talent or motivation. It highlights how physical train

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed readiness to manage sensitive issues with India. He met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of ASEAN meetings. Both nations aim to strengthen economic and cultural cooperation and maintain high-level exchanges. They will also enhance coordination within the BRICS framework for developing nations. China supports India's upcoming BRICS summit hosting in New Delhi.

Houthi militia warnings are causing tankers to change course in the Red Sea. Two vessels altered their destinations to the Suez Canal after the blockade declaration. European Union naval forces advised ships to avoid voyages through the Red Sea. This situation raises concerns for global energy supplies and international trade routes. Tanker activity is affected as ships await further instructions and reassess risks.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Manila. They discussed stable relations for a multi-polar Asia and world. Jaishankar raised fair market access and predictable supply chains for Indian exporters. Peace and tranquility in border areas remain a prerequisite for normal ties. India's trade deficit with China reached an all-time high.

JSW Infrastructure anticipates handling 127 million tonnes of cargo this fiscal year. Operations at its Fujairah liquid terminal are gradually returning to normal. Eight storage tanks will be operational by late July or early August. The company is also proceeding with significant domestic expansion plans. Profit for the June quarter saw a slight decrease compared to last year.

Samsung has launched its new Galaxy Z Fold 8 smartphone in India. This device features a lighter design and an upgraded display. It also includes advanced AI capabilities and improved camera performance. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is available in multiple storage and color options. Sales for this new foldable phone begin on August 7.

Ancient Greek scholar Eratosthenes calculated Earth's circumference using sunlight and geometry. He observed shadows in Syene and Alexandria to determine the planet's size. His experiment revealed the Earth was not flat, which was a significant discovery. Eratosthenes' calculation of 252,000 stadia closely matched modern measurements. This achievement demonstrates how curiosity and logic can lead to groundbreaking scientific insights.

Phrase of the Day: The phrase 'take it with a grain of salt' advises caution when encountering unverified information. This ancient Roman expression remains highly relevant in today's digital world. It encourages critical thinking and verification before accepting claims as facts. The idiom is useful for navigating viral content and online rumors. It promotes healthy skepticism without fostering outright cynicism.

Dr Reddy's expects to resume semaglutide supplies by November after resolving quality issues. The company identified the root cause and plans corrective measures by September. Financial results were impacted by a provision linked to the semaglutide active pharmaceutical ingredient. Despite disruptions, Dr Reddy's maintains its growth and profitability guidance for fiscal year 2027. The drugmaker anticipates supplying millions of semaglutide units this fiscal year.

Tata Communications is restructuring its organization, incurring a one-time staff cost optimization charge. The company reported a decline in consolidated net profit due to restructuring expenses and a data centre outage. Revenue rose by 10.5% from a year earlier, while EBITDA increased. The company remains focused on accelerating growth across its portfolios. Management believes this is a forward-looking effort to align talent.

Best Mexican Proverb of the Day: The Mexican proverb advises careful consideration before embracing change. It highlights the comfort found in familiar situations, even with flaws. This saying encourages evaluating risks before choosing the unknown. The proverb remains relevant for modern decisions about careers and relationships. It promotes thoughtful decision-making, balancing familiarity with potential progress.

The Competition Commission of India has approved Brink's Company's acquisition of NCR Atleos. This acquisition, valued at approximately $6.6 billion, combines two major financial technology infrastructure providers. Brink's Company offers cash and valuables management services globally. NCR Atleos provides self-directed banking solutions and ATM hardware manufacturing. The transaction will result in NCR Atleos being wholly owned and controlled by Brink's Company.

Greek proverb of the day: A Greek saying highlights that true satisfaction comes from appreciating what one has. Chasing more possessions and achievements often leads to a cycle of dissatisfaction. Ambition is natural, but it should not overshadow gratitude for present blessings. Learning to be content with a little fosters happiness regardless of future gains.

Quote of the Day by Olivia de Havilland: Olivia de Havilland's quote, I was quite thin, and I didn't have to worry until I had my appendix out and a mysterious metabolic change occurred, explores the importance of accepting life's unexpected changes with resilience and self-compassion. The quote suggests that our bodies naturally evolve over time due to age, health, or unforeseen circumstances, reminding us that self-worth should not be defined by physical appearance but by confidence, adaptabil

Psychology says people who try to please everyone in whatever way possible aren't always acting from confidence or emotional strength. In many cases, this behavior is linked to a need for approval, fear of rejection, or difficulty setting boundaries. Psychology explains why some people place the needs of others before their own. Understanding this pattern can help people build healthier relationships, make balanced decisions, and develop self-respect.

India plans to double its food processing level to twenty-five percent within five years. This ambitious goal follows significant reforms implemented over the past twelve years. The government views food processing as a priority sector for national economic growth. Various schemes are actively supporting micro and large food processing enterprises. Connecting every farm to a processing unit is a key future objective.

Japanese Mindset: Ichigo Ichie, a Japanese philosophy, teaches valuing every single moment. This concept emphasizes that each meeting and experience is unique and unrepeatable. Modern life often distracts us from appreciating these fleeting, singular occurrences. By embracing Ichigo Ichie, we cultivate gratitude and presence in our daily lives. This wisdom encourages us to treasure ordinary moments as extraordinary.

France's recent heatwave has resulted in a staggering excess of five thousand seven hundred deaths, according to public health officials' reports. The data, which spans from mid-June to early July, illuminates the devastating effect of soaring temperatures on the population's well-being. With statistical modeling revealing the gap between expected and reality, it's clear that climate-related health risks are increasingly dire.

Indian seamless pipe manufacturers contribute USD 1.4 billion annually in foreign exchange. This significant contribution comes from import substitution and overseas sales of made-in-India products. Domestic companies now produce critical seamless pipes previously imported, saving millions each year. Exports of these specialized pipes also add substantially to the nation's earnings. The industry's growth aligns with the vision of making India a global manufacturing hub.

Protesters from across India arrived at Jantar Mantar for a continuing demonstration. Fresh groups joined the sit-in after travelling overnight by bus and train. Volunteers managed the growing crowd, distributing water and food packets to participants. Children, students, and elderly people stood together, raising slogans and holding placards. The energetic atmosphere persisted through the afternoon as more people arrived.

Satellite communications will expand seamless connectivity across India. This technology will support strategic areas and bridge the digital divide. India's space economy is projected to grow significantly by 2030. New ventures reflect rapid private participation and innovation in the space sector. Agile policy frameworks and collaboration will drive technological advancement and inclusive growth.

Chief Justice Surya Kant urged new Advocates-on-Record to focus on professional quality. He stressed that true career building stems from diligent legal work. Visibility through social media does not equate to professional credibility, he noted. Lawyers should resist the temptation of online popularity and focus on courtroom respect. Ultimately, decades of practice are sustained by hard work, not online comments.