The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
ACME Solar has secured Rs 1,571 crore project funding from IIFCL for a Rajasthan solar project. This financing marks IIFCL's first sole greenfield finance to ACME, with a 19-year repayment tenor. The project will integrate solar generation and battery storage for assured peak power supply. This funding milestone brings ACME Solar's total financing this fiscal to Rs 10,976 crore. The project entails a total capital expenditure of Rs 2,123 crore.
Indian Railways is set to upgrade seven heavily trafficked routes, transforming them into four-line corridors. This ambitious project targets approximately 11,000 kilometers of high-density track, addressing the rising demands for passenger and freight services. Ultimately, these improvements will contribute to India's efforts toward sustainable transportation and cost efficiencies, laying the groundwork for substantial future growth in the rail sector.
Kannada actor Yash is one of the biggest pan-Indian stars today. His comeback film Toxic has minted Rs 140 crore on day one of its theatrical release. However, life has not always been so smooth sailing for the superstar. The son of a humble bus driver, he used to earn Rs 50 per day once upon a time.
Amit Arora shared the dilemma of his cousin, who earns Rs 58 LPA in Pune and can save Rs 30 lakh annually while living with family. A Tokyo opportunity offers international exposure and potentially higher earnings but comes with greater costs and taxes. While family favours financial comfort in India, friends see global experience as a career accelerator, sparking debate among netizens.
Nepal flash floods were caused by a glacial collapse, not an earthquake. This event originated in Tibet and caused significant destruction in Nepal. The disaster killed 162 people and left 750 individuals missing. Among the missing are 133 Indian nationals who were in the affected areas. The US Geological Survey confirmed the glacial collapse after further analysis.
Authorities have taken control of more than fifty-three acres of land near the Prime Minister's official residence following a court's dismissal of the Delhi Race Club's plea. The club's lease has remained unrenewed since 1994, leading the Land and Development Office to pass the site to the CPWD for management. The central case is set to be heard again on September 26, 2026.
Tamil Nadu will release Mettur Dam water for 45 days starting September 1. This decision considers drinking and irrigation needs despite monsoon rainfall shortages. The Supreme Court directed Tamil Nadu to approach the Cauvery Water Management Authority. Karnataka has reportedly released water as directed by the authority previously. The court will next hear the Cauvery water sharing dispute on August 31.
Nepal Flash Flood LIVE Updates: At least 168 people have died and more than 1,100 remain missing after a glacial collapse triggered devastating flash floods and mudslides along the Nepal-China border, destroying roads, bridges and settlements and leaving hundreds of foreign travellers unaccounted for.Nepals National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said Thursday that 165 bodies had been recovered from flood-affected areas near the Bhotekoshi river at the Nepal-China border. Ident
It has survived wars and upheavals, but the famed handwoven Kashmir carpet industry is now battling a steady decline as younger generations abandon the painstaking craft. Until the 1980s, carpets were Kashmir's top export, but volumes have since steadily declined, with wars in Ukraine and the Middle East the latest blows to the trade.
China is making a substantial investment in green hydrogen technology. This ambitious plan aims to significantly increase operational capacity by the decade's end. The nation leverages its vast industrial base and surplus clean energy for this initiative. Success hinges on overcoming cost challenges and fostering demand for the fuel. This strategic move could solidify China's clean-tech leadership and aid global emission reduction efforts.
Yashs Bengaluru duplex with Radhika Pandit blends contemporary luxury with Indian traditions and family-friendly spaces. Located in Prestige Golfshire, the home features golf-course views, a Greek-inspired balcony, indoor greenery, a Tulasi Katte and an open social kitchen. Interior designer Saniya Sardhariya said the couple wanted a modern yet culturally rooted space. Geometric patterns, natural stones, statement lighting and metallic accents add character, while open spaces and personalised de
Automakers face doubled U.S. tariffs on Canadian vehicles and parts starting January 1. This move significantly increases costs for major manufacturers like Ford and General Motors. The planned 50% levy on Canadian imports rivals existing tariffs on Chinese vehicles. Industry executives express concern over this uneven playing field and supply chain disruption. However, some hope a resolution will be reached before the deadline.
Nayanthara is back on the news. The Lady Superstars current film Toxic, which stars KGF star Yash in the lead, has set the box-office on fire. As per reports, the action extravaganza has collected a whopping Rs 140 crore worldwide. This further cements Nayantharas reputation as a box-office lucky charm.
India and Russia's FTA negotiations are in an advanced stage, aiming for sustainable trade growth. This agreement will grant India access to the Eurasian region's rich energy and mineral deposits. Bilateral trade has significantly increased, with both nations pursuing a $100 billion target by 2030. Connectivity initiatives, including the Northern Sea Route, are also being explored for mutual benefit.
Rocking Star Yash has a lesser-known connection with farming and rural life. He owns around 80 acres of farmland near Thimlapura in Hassan, Karnataka, where he reportedly wanted to pursue model agriculture. In 2021, he also oversaw water-restoration work and planned lakes to improve groundwater levels. His Bengaluru farmhouse has hosted family moments too, including Yash and daughter Ayra feeding a cow.
India-EU relations are stronger than ever due to increased strategic understanding and comfort. The India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations progressed with realism and pragmatism from both sides. The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism aims to prevent carbon leakage and incentivize lower emissions. Both India and the EU seek to de-risk supply chains and build greater resilience. Cooperation will be strengthened through agreements and the India-EU Trade and Technology Council.
Despite President Donald Trumps claim that the United States does not need Canada, both economies remain deeply interdependent. Canadian oil, aluminum, potash, auto parts and electricity power American transport, agriculture, manufacturing and AI infrastructure.
Yashs Toxic has made a massive box-office debut, earning an estimated Rs 101.10 crore net in India on Day 1 across languages, according to Sacnilk. The gangster drama reportedly grossed around Rs 140 crore in India. Hindi contributed Rs 55 crore, followed by Kannada at Rs 23.30 crore and Telugu at Rs 16 crore. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, Toxic marks Yashs return four years after K.G.F: Chapter 2.
Nestl's global CEO welcomed India's mandatory front-of-pack labelling proposal. He suggested manufacturers contribute to making the program more scientific. The company will share experiences from other countries with the government. Nestl India has invested significantly in capacity expansion recently. The company's leaders also met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
A Singapore politician questions the logic of Singapore Airlines supporting Air India. He opposes using Temasek funds for Air India's turnaround efforts. The politician seeks parliamentary answers on Air India's financial assessment. He stated that Singaporeans do not owe Air India any support. Singapore Airlines should fund its Air India investment independently.
Department of Atomic Energy is proposing a new consulting subsidiary for NPCIL. This unit will guide private companies entering the nation's nuclear energy sector. It will offer design, engineering, and regulatory support for PHWR units. The SHANTI Act opened nuclear generation to private players last year. This move supports India's goal of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047.
India and China are exploring new frameworks for business exchanges and investments. Beijing may unveil an investment package for India during President Xi Jinping's visit. This includes a special economic zone with easier sea route access. Efforts are underway to ease approval processes for Chinese investments in non-strategic sectors. Both nations aim to improve overall ties and manage differences after a freeze.
India's top gas marketer GAIL opposes a new platform for booking LNG terminal capacity. GAIL states this platform will add costs for consumers without significant value. The company believes existing frameworks do not require a separate booking platform. High global LNG prices already pressure downstream natural gas consumers. Much of India's LNG regasification capacity remains underutilised currently.
Walt Disney's Indian joint venture with Reliance Industries saw losses narrow significantly in the recent quarter. The combined entity, JioStar, reported a sharp turnaround in profitability during the last fiscal year. Revenue from operations for JioStar increased substantially, reflecting strong business growth. This improvement in Disney's investment tracks the venture's enhanced financial performance. JioStar also reduced its provision for onerous sports contracts, indicating better financial
Public sector banks are borrowing more to fund lending expansion. Deposits are not keeping pace with credit growth for these banks. Private banks show stronger deposit growth and are gaining market share. This trend raises concerns about funding sustainability for state-owned lenders. Abundant system liquidity currently cushions the impact of these shifts.
Fire insurance premiums dropped significantly in the first four months of the financial year. Aggressive discounting on large industrial risks pressured insurers competing for corporate accounts. The regulator received complaints of steep discounts, raising financial health concerns. Major insurers like New India Assurance and ICICI Lombard saw premium reductions. Pricing for industrial fire risks must now follow sound actuarial principles.
The government has rejected requests for more time to sell excess sugar stocks. Bulk sugar users must now liquidate any surplus by August 31. This action aims to suppress sugar prices and curb hoarding allegations. Some companies fear this move could increase market price volatility. Industry analysts expect additional sugar to enter the market after this deadline.
Tata Power's challenge to a $490 million arbitration award was rejected by Singapore's court. The court upheld damages awarded to Kleros Capital Partners regarding a Russian coal asset bid. Disagreements over leadership and ownership soured the partnership in 2015. Kleros alleged Tata Power misused confidential information and acted in bad faith. The company must now pay Kleros' legal costs, which are yet to be determined.
Gaja Alternative Asset Management's listing marks a significant step for the industry. The company is the first pure-play PE asset manager to list domestically. This listing allows retail investors indirect access to private equity investments. Gaja Alternative has committed capital of 3,200 crore as of March 31, 2026. The company raised 550 crore through its initial public offering.
India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman sees collaboration opportunities with Canadian banks and fintech firms. She noted India's robust financial sector and expanding investment activities for foreign entities. The minister highlighted India's digital ecosystem and 100% FDI in insurance as key attractions. Canadian investors can participate in India's growth and use it as a regional financial platform. Emerging sectors and India's economic transformation offer significant potential for inve
FSSAI has issued notices to Andaz Delhi and JW Marriott, Aerocity. Inspections revealed significant food safety and hygiene deficiencies at both establishments. Andaz Delhi faced issues with expired food and improper storage practices. JW Marriott, Aerocity, had licensing and relabelling irregularities noted by the regulator. Further action will depend on compliance and sample analysis results.
Best Italian Proverb of the Day: The wolf is always said to be bigger than it is captures how fear can make dangers appear greater than they really are. The Italian proverb uses the image of an oversized wolf to show how people can exaggerate threats, difficulties or risks, reminding us to distinguish genuine danger from the fear created by perception and repeated stories.
India is open to expanding its economic partnership agreement with Japan. The nation seeks to make the existing pact more contemporary and relevant. Japanese textile firms, including Uniqlo, plan increased sourcing and investment in India. Significant Japanese investment is already flowing into India at a rapid pace. India aims to support Japan's ambition to double its companies operating locally.
Quote of the day by Jackie Chan reflects on the value of self-improvement and doing ones best despite difficulty. The idea speaks to everyday experiences such as facing setbacks, managing self-doubt, staying disciplined at work and accepting that progress takes time. The article explores how persistence, personal responsibility, patience and a willingness to help others can shape meaningful growth.
Tressa Prisbrey transformed waste into wonder by creating Bottle Village, a whimsical collection of thirteen structures crafted from discarded materials in Simi Valley. Fondly nicknamed Grandma, she welcomed visitors to explore her artistic haven. Although an earthquake struck and inflicted damage, passionate restoration efforts ensured the village's legacy lived on, showcasing how creativity can breathe new life into what others deem worthless.
Albert Camus striking quote about intelligent men dreaming of becoming gangsters explores the darker side of human nature, power and the desire to control others. Taken from his 1956 novel The Fall, the line forms part of Jean-Baptiste Clamences confession about guilt, morality and hidden ambitions. Here is the meaning behind the quote and a look at Camus life, philosophy and most important works.
Bennedict Mathurin joins the New Orleans Pelicans on a two-year contract. He arrives after a season split between two NBA teams. Mathurin averaged a career-high 17.6 points per game last season. The deal includes a player option for additional flexibility. This signing adds another scoring option for the Pelicans.
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal proposed a startup pitching series between India and Japan. This initiative, similar to Shark Tank, aims to connect young companies with investors. The virtual format will leverage digital connectivity for increased participation and collaboration. Japan's patient capital and precision engineering are invited to partner with Indian firms. This move seeks to deepen commercial ties and foster business growth between the two nations.
The rupee's depreciation and strict valuation rules hinder foreign income disclosure. A one-time voluntary disclosure window allows regularization of overseas assets up to one crore. However, many exceed this limit due to currency conversion dates and asset values. Taxpayers explore updated returns and disclosure schemes, risking misrepresentation claims. Clarification on valuation rules is needed for borderline cases and falling-value assets.
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited is expanding its e-commerce operations. The company plans to deliver groceries along with LPG cylinders to customers. BPCL aims to capture digital transactions by launching its own payment gateway. Its existing retail network and LPG distributorships will be utilized for this venture. Pilot projects are underway in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.
A new robot named CiliaVine manipulates blood flow using magnetic fields. This device successfully captured circulating tumor cells from all tested liver cancer patients. It also demonstrated improved clot breakdown in laboratory models. Researchers coated CiliaVine with antibodies for effective tumor cell capture.

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