The Economic Times

A powerful El Nino may push nearly 49 million more people into food insecurity. This event carries an 81% chance of being very strong, impacting vulnerable regions. Central America and Southern Africa face the most severe increases in food insecurity. Global food markets are strong, but conflict and crop losses could raise prices. Reduced funding hampers monitoring efforts, making crisis identification more difficult.

A Lok Sabha Secretariat director was found dead in his Noida apartment. Police discovered a purported suicide note referencing a loan during their investigation. The deceased, Gaurav Gautam, was discovered by his wife after she returned home. Medical professionals confirmed his death upon arrival at a local hospital. Authorities are continuing their examination of the recovered note and evidence.

The Supreme Court granted states six weeks to file responses on a consumer 'right to know' plea. This plea seeks to inform consumers about product quality, purity, and seller details. Several states and Union Territories have yet to submit their required responses. The court is considering the importance of informed consumer choices and protection.

Euro zone business activity reached an eight-month high in July. Services activity rebounded, joining a strengthening manufacturing sector. Overall new orders saw their fastest pace since November. Employment stabilized after a six-month period of job losses. Input cost inflation eased to a five-month low.

The experts, who spoke at the sidelines of an industry event in Singapore, argued that partnerships between Indian companies and international exhibition organisers would help attract more overseas exhibitors and visitors while supporting exports in line with the government's Make in India initiative.

New Delhi has notified procedures for online companies undertaking cross-border e-commerce. The government recently allowed foreign-stakes e-commerce firms to hold inventory for exports. Operational procedures for this framework are now notified with immediate effect. These include registration, inventory management, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade issued this public notice.

A generous donation of two crore rupees has been made by a Hyderabad-based company to the TTD's SV Pranadana Trust, aimed at providing free medical aid to patients battling severe illnesses. The donation documents were formally presented to TTD additional executive officer Ch Venkaiah Chowdary. Since its establishment in November 2001, the trust has played a vital role in facilitating essential medical treatments for those in need.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is considering a public inquiry into Jeffrey Epstein's UK activities. Victims minister Alex Davies-Jones confirmed the government is exploring all possibilities. The scandal has already led to arrests of prominent figures within the establishment. British police are investigating multiple allegations linked to the disgraced financier. The inquiry may also examine accusations against Mohamed al-Fayed.

Indian companies are increasingly pursuing strategic overseas acquisitions. They now focus on acquiring capabilities and technology rather than just scale. Stronger balance sheets and global valuation corrections fuel this trend. This shift represents a structural change in corporate growth strategies. Indian firms are sharpening their global competitive edge through these deals.

South Korea will restart a railway project connecting to North Korea's Wonsan city. This project aims to improve access to peace and ecological tourism sites. The government also plans to broaden the use of its Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund. Multilateral talks involving North Korea are currently difficult, according to the foreign minister. Indonesia previously attempted to arrange dialogue between the two Koreas.

Lovlina Borgohain found continuing boxing after the Paris Games a significant achievement. She secured a silver medal at her third Commonwealth Games appearance. Indian boxers achieved a record ten medals, including seven golds, at the event. Coach Santiago Nieva hailed the historic performance and praised Sakshi's depth. The team now shifts focus to the Asian Games and Olympic qualification cycles.

The Supreme Court declined to stop the Supreme Court Bar Association from passing resolutions. It stated that the matter concerned the association's internal democratic processes. The court directed the petitioner to approach the SCBA election committee for grievances. This plea objected to a resolution supporting activist Sonam Wangchuk. Wangchuk had undertaken a fast concerning examination issues and education system concerns.

A proposal for police modernisation has been sent for approval. Existing CCTV funding for police stations is extended until March 2027. The Supreme Court is monitoring progress on functional police station CCTVs. The Centre provides significant funding for CCTV installation in states. The court previously mandated CCTVs to prevent human rights abuses.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth denied reports of depleted missile defense stockpiles. CNN cited sources claiming nearly 80 percent of THAAD interceptors were used. Senior commanders warned of dangerously low munitions after operations linked to Iran. Pentagon and White House officials rejected suggestions of insufficient military capabilities. They stated the armed forces possess enough munitions for strategic goals.

Looking for Hiroshima Day poster and speech ideas? Here are simple themes, messages and speech points to remember Hiroshima on August 6.

Plastic currency notes may enter circulation at the start of next financial year. The Reserve Bank of India is targeting this rollout after completing field trials. These polymer notes will be introduced in ten and twenty rupee denominations. They are expected to be more durable and last significantly longer. Existing paper notes will continue to circulate alongside the new plastic ones.

United States has depleted most long-range precision missiles during its Iran campaign. This development raises concerns about America's preparedness for future major conflicts. Key weapons like ATACMS and PrSM are significantly reduced in inventory. Tomahawk cruise missile and defensive interceptor supplies also face pressure. However, the Pentagon maintains sufficient military capability and accelerating production.

MMA fighter Owais Yaqoob news: Owais Yaqoob made history as the first from Jammu and Kashmir to win in BRAVE Combat Federation. He competed while unwell, choosing not to disclose his sickness before the significant bout. His journey from Pulwama to international MMA showcases determination and relentless training. Yaqoob also established Lion's Den Martial Arts Academy to foster local talent. This achievement highlights the growing MMA culture within the Kashmir region.

Chef Kunal Kapur shared a simple and nutritious corn toastie recipe on Instagram. This quick dish offers a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy filling. The recipe combines boiled corn, besan, and semolina for a wholesome preparation. Vegetables like capsicum, carrots, and onions add extra flavor and nutrients. This versatile toastie serves well as a breakfast or an evening snack option.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk spoke with student leader Devendra Nath Mahato regarding ongoing protests. Mahato agreed to consume water and salt after Wangchuk's assurance of continued support. Wangchuk urged Mahato to end his hunger strike, calling it a critical health risk. Mahato stated he would continue his food strike until the government addresses their demands. The Jharkhand Chief Minister assured students that the government is sensitive to their concerns.

The Bombay High Court ordered the immediate takedown of vile and defamatory social media posts. Justice Arif Doctor described the online content as abusive, vile, and obscene. The court directed Meta, X Corp, and Google LLC to remove all such material. It questioned platforms about their voluntary takedown mechanisms for vulgar content. The matter was posted for further hearing after four weeks.

The Reserve Bank of India will continue its special FCNR(B) deposit scheme. This scheme has already attracted tens of billions of dollars into the country. Governor Sanjay Malhotra expressed satisfaction with the robust foreign exchange inflows. The central bank expects more funds to arrive in the coming weeks. There are no current plans to prematurely close this successful mobilization window.

A national team has been sent to Gujarat and Rajasthan to aid the ongoing Chandipura virus disease outbreak. Experts are investigating the illness and its spread, working with state health authorities. Researchers are also examining potential insect carriers and animal reservoirs for the virus. Community surveys are underway to detect undetected infections and improve diagnostic tests. Whole-genome sequencing is being conducted to understand the circulating virus strain.

A parliamentary panel has demanded Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologize within three days. The panel recommended losing safe harbour protection if the company fails to comply. The government summoned Meta's global leadership to discuss multiple issues and concerns. These discussions will cover the Prime Minister's post and child abuse material. Meta's explanation for the post restriction was deemed inadequate by the ministry.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang reveals how his Asian upbringing, where constant criticism replaced praise, shaped his approach to feedback, leadership and success. Once you've been raised by Asian parents, you need therapy for life, he said.

Borosil bowls are crafted from borosilicate glass, a material celebrated for its impressive resistance to temperature fluctuations. This characteristic ensures that the bowls don't crack when exposed to sudden heat or cold. Beyond kitchen use, borosilicate glass is also utilized in laboratory settings and even as heat tiles for space shuttles, making it a remarkable solution for various high-pressure environments.

The Reserve Bank of India maintained its benchmark repo rate at 5.25 percent. Inflationary expectations were lowered to 5 percent for fiscal year 2027. Growth projections were raised to 6.7 percent, anticipating economic momentum. Geopolitical uncertainty and monsoon patterns pose potential risks to the outlook. The central bank remains committed to price and financial system stability.

From adding a touch of greenery to creating a calming atmosphere, indoor plants have long been associated with positive energy and harmony. According to Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui traditions, certain plants are believed to attract prosperity, peace and good fortune when placed in homes. From the popular Money Plant and Lucky Bamboo to Tulsi and Jade Plant, here are 7 plants traditionally believed to bring positivity into your living room.

The UAE's non-oil private sector expanded at its fastest pace in four months in July, driven by stronger new orders, a rebound in export business and improved trade conditions, an S&P Global survey showed. Employment returned to growth, while business confidence weakened for a third consecutive month amid continued uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz.

Tamil Nadu Budget 2026: Tamil Nadu's new government has unveiled its first Budget, outlining major investments in education and welfare schemes. Key announcements include free bicycles and laptops for students, gold rings for newborns, and wedding assistance for women. The Budget also focuses on modernising schools and tackling substance abuse, while setting a target of making Tamil Nadu a USD 1.5 trillion economy by 2036.

2026 RBI MPC Meeting: The Reserve Bank of India maintained its repo rate at 5.25 percent on Wednesday. This decision marks the fourth consecutive meeting without a change in the key interest rate. The central bank cited sticky inflation and geopolitical risks as reasons for its cautious approach. Global economic instability and trade uncertainties also influenced the committee's deliberations. The Monetary Policy Committee retained its neutral policy stance, reflecting ongoing external uncertain

United States officials are continuing discussions about Ukraine producing Patriot interceptor missiles. This initiative aims to bolster Ukraine's defense against Russian ballistic missile attacks. Options include Ukraine building components for assembly elsewhere in Europe. President Trump's earlier doubts have caused surprise among Ukrainian leaders.

Trump described negotiations with Iran as very good. Mediators in Qatar indicated progress toward ending the Iran war, though Tehran denied talks. Trump warned Iran would face severe consequences if they backed out of any agreement. He also stated the Strait of Hormuz would reopen soon or Iran would be hit.

Aluminum foil serves as an innovative solution for safeguarding cash against moisture and environmental effects in your home. While it effectively preserves money temporarily, it does not prevent theft. To improve humidity control, pair foil with airtight bags and silica gel packets. For ultimate security, merge this technique with safes and cleverly concealed storage options.

India's services sector growth slowed significantly in July, reaching its weakest pace in over four years. New business expansion was moderate, posting the softest growth in nearly four-and-a-half years. Hiring activity saw a modest increase after a six-month low, marking continued job creation. Input cost inflation eased, but firms raised selling prices to clients. Business confidence declined to a seven-month low, reflecting concerns about future demand.

Ankur Warikoo reveals how his hourly earning rose from 134 to around 2 lakh in two decades. He revealds that one investment really changed his life. He said he now works nearly 3 hours per day in a week but earns 1500 times more what he was getting two decades away even after working more.

The Reserve Bank of India will resume licensing for urban cooperative banks. A comprehensive review of credit monitoring for rural cooperative banks is also planned. The central bank proposed standardizing lending rate frameworks for all regulated entities. This move aims to enhance transparency and strengthen consumer protection measures. Global risks like the West Asia conflict continue to impact India's economic outlook.

Maharashtra Resident doctors' strike: The statewide strike is against the government's decision allowing homoeopaths to prescribe allopathic medicines. Emergency services will continue for twenty-four hours while other services remain suspended. The doctors demand a halt to the registration process until a court verdict.

A North Korean missile unit is deploying to western Russia. This unit could be equipped with 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers. Ukraine faces a significant threat due to its air defense shortages. Russia has already fired North Korean missiles at Ukraine since late 2023. This deployment expands existing military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang.

GACM Technologies has signed a pact with Meridian Intelligence to enhance its software development portfolio. This collaboration is valued at fifteen rupees and will continue until September 2028. The partnership establishes a framework for future software development agreements. It supports GACM Technologies' long-term technology and business expansion strategy. This association will enable scalable technology solutions and unlock new growth opportunities.

Nineteen-year-old Savitha Shri joins India's Chess Olympiad team for the upcoming event. Her journey began by observing her elder brother play chess at home. Financial hardships saw her family pawn jewellery and her father quit his job abroad. Savitha now replaces Grandmaster Harika Dronavalli in the national women's team. She is set for the biggest challenge of her career in Samarkand.

Jammu and Kashmir has seen significant economic growth and development over seven years. The Union Territory achieved full literacy status and is becoming a startup hub. Investments in tourism and infrastructure have boosted the region's economy. Handicrafts and handloom sectors provide substantial employment opportunities for many. The government has focused on improving infrastructure and creating jobs for youth.

Assistant Secretary S. Paul Kapur will visit India and Central Asian nations from August 5 to 12. His trip aims to advance key bilateral and regional economic priorities for the administration. Discussions will focus on trade, investment, and strengthening supply chain resilience across the region. Kapur will meet with senior government officials and private sector leaders during his tour.

Supreme Court orders cameras to identify uninsured vehicles and issue automatic e-challans, tightening enforcement of mandatory vehicle insurance across India. The court found it shocking that more than 50 percent vehicles don't have insurance in India.

Voters in five US states cast ballots in primary elections on Tuesday. These contests are expected to shape the battle for control of Congress next year. Several Democratic primaries featured contests between incumbent lawmakers and progressive challengers. Redistricting played a key role in the races across these states. Missouri and Virginia saw significant redistricting efforts influencing their primary elections.