The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Saif Ali Khan believes Dhurandhar has changed the way Bollywood needs to approach filmmaking. According to him, audiences now expect fresh stories, bold ideas and films made with genuine passion rather than familiar formulas. He also praised the blockbuster's music for being naturally integrated into the narrative. Read on to know in what aspect Bollywood should evolve its game.
Kylian Mbappe achieved new World Cup milestones and led France to victory. He became the youngest player with twenty World Cup appearances and the fastest to score twenty goals. Mbappe's eighth goal of the tournament secured a two-nil win against Morocco. This victory advances France to the semi-finals and ends Morocco's impressive run. France now prepares for their next match against either Spain or Belgium.
France secured a two-nil victory over Morocco in their World Cup quarter-final match. Kylian Mbappe scored a superb goal after missing an earlier penalty kick. Ousmane Dembele added a second goal for France six minutes later. This win propels France into the World Cup semi-finals against Belgium or Spain. The French team aims to reach three consecutive World Cup finals.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was buried in Iran's holiest shrine after massive funeral events. His successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, has not appeared publicly since the war began. Crowds chanted slogans demanding revenge against US President Donald Trump for the leader's death. Khamenei's 37-year rule concluded amidst internal challenges and economic woes. The burial marks the end of a significant era for the Islamic Republic.
United States officials stated no fresh strikes occurred while diplomatic talks continue. Iran launched attacks on US military sites in Gulf states on Thursday. These strikes were retaliation for earlier US attacks on Iranian military infrastructure. The recent exchanges further strained a fragile three-week-old ceasefire. Both sides stressed the need to prevent further military escalation and revive diplomacy.
This week's OTT releases have something for every kind of viewer. From Indian films to international shows, there's a mix of sports dramas, courtroom thrillers, crime stories, comedies and family entertainers. Netflix leads the lineup with several big releases, while JioHotstar, Prime Video and other platforms are also adding fresh titles. If you're planning a weekend binge, there are plenty of new options to choose from.
Dr Reddy's Laboratories will halt semaglutide injection supplies until at least October. Unspecified impurities were identified during the active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing scale-up. The company assures that already supplied market products remain safe for patient use. Torrent Pharmaceuticals and USV Ltd are recalling some semaglutide batches sourced from Dr Reddy's. Commercial supplies are expected to resume after the issue is resolved and validation is complete.
Advent International is negotiating to sell its majority stake in DFM Foods. Several consumer goods companies and private equity firms are in talks for this acquisition. The deal is expected to be finalized by December, according to executives. DFM Foods, maker of Crax snacks, reported significant sales growth recently. India's packaged snacks market is experiencing increased merger and acquisition activity.
Indian nuclear equipment makers are expanding capacities for anticipated increased demand. New legislation allows private companies to establish nuclear power plants in India. Major power producers have announced plans to enter the nuclear energy sector. The government targets one hundred gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2047. This expansion offers significant opportunities for component suppliers.
India and Australia elevated their strategic partnership with new defense and energy agreements. Australia will supply uranium for India's nuclear power generation needs. The nations also agreed on cooperation in maritime security and critical minerals. Both countries will enhance collaboration to combat terrorism and extremism. These pacts aim to ensure a stable Indo-Pacific region for both.
Indian Oil Corporation's expansion will boost refining capacity by December 2026. This increase is expected to significantly raise India's petroleum product export share. The company's capacity will reach 98.05 million metric tonnes per annum. This expansion will strengthen India's position as a global refining hub. Increased exports will also boost the nation's foreign exchange earnings.
Positivity is a mindset that influences how we perceive and enjoy life's offerings. LM Montgomery's quote emphasizes that enjoyment stems from a determined attitude, not just circumstances. This perspective helps individuals find value and learn from challenges they encounter. A positive outlook transforms routine activities and strengthens relationships with others. Ultimately, happiness originates from within, shaping our experiences and resilience.
The power ministry will issue an advisory to states and utilities. This advisory focuses on strengthening preparedness for erratic weather conditions. Utilities will be directed to maintain adequate coal and water supplies. Preventive maintenance will also be completed to minimise power outages. Peak demand is projected to remain high over the next three months.
A powerful El Nino event has emerged across the Pacific Ocean. This developing weather pattern is expected to be one of the strongest in decades. Sea surface temperatures have risen significantly in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. There is an eighty-one percent chance of a very strong El Nino developing. This event ranks among the largest in the historical record going back to nineteen fifty.
Monsoon recovery follows a weak June, but uneven distribution persists. Many key agricultural districts still face deficient rainfall, impacting crops. Economists warn of slowed agricultural growth and increased food inflation risks. Nearly one hundred rain-fed districts are predominantly affected by moisture stress. This situation poses significant challenges for the ongoing kharif agricultural season.
Villagers in Bettiah gheraoed a forest department team on Thursday. They set ablaze one earthmover and damaged another during an anti-encroachment drive. Villagers claimed they had cultivated the land for many years. They stated they were not informed about the forest department's drive. Tension escalated after sugarcane crops were allegedly damaged during the operation.
Charlemagne's wisdom emphasizes action over mere knowledge for true success. He believed wise action requires understanding and learning from experience. Charlemagne united Europe and fostered education, demonstrating knowledge guiding societal improvement. Today, information is abundant, yet acting on known truths remains a challenge. Applying this lesson daily involves acting on what you already know.
In separate submissions to the USTR as part of the ongoing public hearing on the probe (July 7-9), industry bodies said the existing India-US Trade Policy Forum should be used to address concerns instead of imposing tariffs.
DBS Bank, HSBC, Standard Chartered and MUFG are among the banks which have lined up to provide this loan. ET could not ascertain the names of all lenders. The loan has been launched with half a dozen banks already lining up for the first underwriting.
Bokaro Steel Plant will receive iron ore annually through a new slurry pipeline. This modern system will eliminate dependence on railway rakes for raw material transport. The plant's crude steel production capacity will increase significantly after expansion. This project involves a substantial capital investment and aims for completion in three and a half years. The expansion will enhance production capacity and global competitiveness for Bokaro Steel Plant.
Torrential rains caused severe flooding in Raigad's Khalapur area, leading to an industrial emergency. Approximately three thousand gas cylinders were swept into the Patalganga river from an HPCL plant. The strong river currents carried both filled and empty cylinders into the water. District collector Kishan Jawale issued a serious warning to residents along the riverbanks. He advised people not to touch or move any spotted gas cylinders for safety.
Shah said India's border extends 15,000 km through 18 states and UTs and asked the forces to take three pledges - secured border, prosperous border region and a vigilant society.
Maharashtra's chief minister has unveiled a seven-member committee tasked with the implementation of a uniform civil code. The panel will be led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai and is expected to deliver its report within seven months.
Air India achieved the world's fourth most punctual airline ranking in June. The airline recorded an impressive 86.85% on-time arrival rate across many flights. This significant improvement reflects sustained investments in operational resilience and planning. Saudia airlines secured the top position in these prestigious rankings. Korean Air and Aeromexico also placed higher than Singapore Airlines.
The Asian Development Bank has lowered India's FY27 growth forecast to 6.6 percent. Higher crude oil prices and transportation costs will impact consumer sentiment and demand. The bank retained its FY28 growth forecast at 7.3 percent, expecting global conditions to improve. Inflation forecast for FY27 is raised to 5.2 percent due to oil and food prices. Policy measures and public capital expenditure will support India's economic momentum.
President Trump reiterated his claim of resolving the India-Pakistan conflict. He stated that eleven aircraft were shot down during the hostilities. Trump believes he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for settling eight wars. India has consistently denied any third-party intervention in its affairs. The President asserted the conflict was on the verge of becoming nuclear.
S&P Global Ratings downgraded Harley-Davidson's credit to junk status on Wednesday. The company's strategy to sell lower-cost motorcycles will pressure profitability for some time. Analysts estimate margins will be around five to six percent in 2026. Restructuring expenses and tariff costs also face near-term profitability pressures.
Authorities discovered drugmakers hid licence cancellations to obtain supply orders. The government now mandates states display this information on their websites. This data will be shared monthly with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation. The move aims to ensure quality medicines reach hospitals and consumers. Timely disclosure strengthens monitoring between the Centre and states.
The Bombay High Court has temporarily restrained Hamon Cooling Systems from using the 'Hamon' trademark. John Cockerill Hamon SA established a prima facie case for owning the brand after a cross-border insolvency process. The court found no merit in the defendant's claims of acquiescence and delay. The defendants are derivative users whose authority to use the marks has expired.
Life lesson by Mother Teresa today: Mother Teresa taught that small acts of kindness hold immense power. Genuine love, she believed, is shown through everyday compassionate actions. She founded the Missionaries of Charity to serve the poor in India. Mother Teresa received the Nobel Peace Prize for her humanitarian work.
Google is appealing a Delhi High Court ruling concerning trademark infringement in its advertising program. The company argues the judgment deviates from established legal precedents regarding keyword advertising practices. A division bench will likely hear Google's appeal against the single judge's decision. The court had previously ordered Google to pay damages to Hindware for trademark misuse.
Jackie Shroff grew up in difficult chawl conditions. He now helps nearly one hundred families in Mumbai. Children can contact him if they are hungry. He funds education and expensive health treatments for many. His net worth is reported to be Rs 212 crore.
The renewable energy ministry has extended the deadline for mandatory BIS certification. This extension applies to solar photovoltaic inverters with capacities exceeding two hundred kilowatts. The new deadline for self-certification is December thirty-first, which is later than the original date. Manufacturers can continue supplying these inverters based on self-certification and valid IEC certificates. This decision was made due to limited testing facilities for high-capacity solar inverters.
Two prominent players are in the running to purchase American Oncology Institute from Siemens Healthineers. One of the potential buyers is General Atlantic in collaboration with Renova Hospitals, while the other contender is Raj Mantena's Cancer Centers of America. Siemens Healthineers initially acquired this cancer network as part of a larger strategic agreement. The completion of the sale is anticipated by mid-August.
Archaeologists have stumbled upon ancient wolf remains on a remote island in Sweden, linking back to a time between three thousand and five thousand years ago. The discovery has led researchers to propose that humans possibly brought these wolves over by boat. Notably, the wolves' diet consisted largely of marine protein, indicating intriguing interactions between the two species in prehistoric times.
CISF personnel recovered over 428 metric tonnes of coal during a recent operation. This five-day special operation targeted coal pilferage and theft in Jharkhand and West Bengal. Hand-picked jawans and quick reaction teams covered multiple acres of coalfields. These operations were conducted across Bharat Coking Coal, Eastern Coalfields, and Central Coalfields. The force is now authorized for search and seizure operations to curb coal theft.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Australian businesses to invest in India's growing economy. He highlighted opportunities in manufacturing, clean energy, and advanced technologies for collaboration. Modi also called for the swift finalization of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. He met with Australian CEOs and business leaders to foster stronger economic ties. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined Modi at a diaspora event in Melbourne.
Samsung is restructuring its Indian operations to improve profitability in home appliances. This move follows pressure from slowing smartphone demand and rising component costs. The company aims to eliminate operational layers and overlapping functions within its sales divisions. Job losses are possible as Samsung seeks to accommodate most employees in new roles. This restructuring initiative may extend to other global subsidiaries of the electronics giant.
India and Afghanistan held a Joint Committee Meeting to strengthen their development partnership. The two nations reviewed cooperation across humanitarian aid, food security, and trade. India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Afghan people's welfare and development needs. Afghanistan appreciated India's sustained support and cooperation in various important sectors. A Joint Working Group will now prepare a long-term roadmap for agricultural cooperation.
India questioned the World Trade Organization's interim e-commerce pact. This agreement was adopted by only sixty-six member countries. India argued such pacts bypass multilateral consensus and require broader agreement. It also questioned the legal basis for the WTO Director-General's role. The nation sought clarification on the use of WTO Secretariat resources for this pact.
Quote of the Day by Avicenna: Avicenna's quote suggests time is shaped by memories and expectations. This ancient wisdom resonates with modern psychological concepts of mindfulness. The legendary physician and philosopher lived nearly a thousand years ago. His profound insights continue to influence our understanding of life's moments. Appreciating the present moment enriches our experience of existence.
Some people intentionally choose to spend their birthdays on their own. They might take a solo trip, enjoy a favorite meal, visit a quiet place, watch a movie, read a book, or simply set aside time to reflect on the year that has passed. For them, solitude is not necessarily about being alone, it can be an opportunity for rest, reflection, and personal meaning.
Why is your dog suddenly chewing you or blankets? Your dogs tiny front-teeth nibble may look unusual, but it often reveals trust, comfort, and emotional bonding. Cobbing in dogs is a gentle mouthing behavior where pets softly nibble people, toys, or other animals. Unlike biting, it is usually harmless. However, sudden chewing, stress, or panic during loud sounds may signal deeper issues like noise anxiety in dogs.
African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of If you close your eyes to facts, you will learn through accidents. The saying reminds us that ignoring reality or refusing to accept the truth often leads to avoidable mistakes and difficult life lessons. It emphasizes the importance of facing facts with honesty, paying attention to warning signs, and making informed decisions before problems grow. Rather than encouraging fear, the proverb teaches that wisdom comes from acknowledging reality e
Life lesson by Natsume Soseki: Modern life offers individuals unprecedented freedom and independence. This independence, however, can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Japanese novelist Natsume Soseki observed this paradox in his writings. He suggested that loneliness is a price for modern freedom and egoism.
Professor Sander van der Linden studies how people fall for misinformation and manipulation. Digital technology accelerates the spread of false information, exploiting human cognitive biases. Industries like tobacco and fossil fuels have long used doubt-casting techniques. Sophisticated firms now offer 'disinformation for hire' services using micro-targeting. Educational systems must adapt to teach new skills for navigating online deception.

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