The Economic Times

Vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz linked to Iranian trade before a US blockade took effect. Nine of eleven vessels passed through the strait via the Iranian route on Tuesday. Three empty oil tankers entered the strait while others exited with Iranian exports. Attacks on commercial ships intensified, causing a slowdown in shipping through the vital waterway. Shippers using the non-Iranian lane remain risk-averse following recent tanker incidents.

IRCTC New Website Launch Date & Time: The IRCTC ticket booking website has been redesigned for improved performance. Passengers will experience faster page loads and higher booking capacity starting today. New features include seat preferences and a fare calendar for user convenience. The upgraded platform supports multiple Indian languages and integrates concession bookings. This relaunch is part of broader Indian Railways reforms for better infrastructure.

Krafton India is releasing BGMI Version 4.5 with a Naruto crossover event. This limited-time collaboration introduces iconic Naruto locations and unique ninja abilities. Players can explore new environments and utilize special powers for dynamic combat. Exclusive themed items and character cards are available as rewards for participation. The extensive Naruto event runs until September 14 for all players.

US Senate unveiled a revised Russia sanctions bill with softened oil tariff penalties. Major buyers like India and China will face up to 100% tariffs instead of 500%. The bipartisan legislation targets Russian officials and financial institutions while discouraging oil purchases. It includes exemptions for countries reducing their natural gas imports from Russia. This revised measure aims to increase pressure on Moscow and honor Senator Lindsey Graham's legacy.

Iran's army has claimed that it carried out drone strikes on the Al-Azraq military base in Jordan, targeting facilities including F-18 fighter jet locations, accommodation buildings and an equipment shed as part of the seventh phase of 'Operation Lightning', according to an official statement carried by Iran's state-run IRIB.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard targeted US Fifth Fleet facilities in Bahrain. This action responded to US actions in the Indian Ocean and shipping route controls. The Guard warned that other export routes could also face closure. Bahrain's Interior Ministry confirmed air raid sirens sounded earlier. Residents were urged to remain calm and seek shelter during the alert.

India secured a dominant victory in the opening ODI match against England. Axar Patels crucial bowling spell restricted the hosts to a manageable total. Shubman Gill anchored the chase with a fluent innings before retiring hurt. Axar Patel and Washington Sundar then combined to seal the win for India. This victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the ongoing ODI series.

Astana International Financial Centre will host Astana Finance Days 2026. This forum aims to significantly boost capital markets across Eurasia. It will gather financial professionals, investors, and government representatives. Discussions will focus on practical solutions for capital markets and investment. The event seeks to foster new business opportunities and partnerships.

Wisconsin election officials found Elon Musk likely broke state law. He offered one million dollar checks to voters before a state Supreme Court election. Two complaints were referred to prosecutors for potential criminal charges. Musk's political action committee also offered payments for petition signatures. This follows his significant spending on the expensive judicial race.

Spain secured a commanding 2-0 victory over France to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro guided Spain into the championship match. The European champions are now one win away from securing football's most prestigious titles. France will now prepare for the third-place playoff match. Spain's performance signals their readiness for the highest level of competition.

Warren Buffett has redirected his annual donations away from Bill Gates' foundation. He will now donate approximately six billion dollars to his family's foundations. Buffett plans to give away his remaining Berkshire Hathaway stock by 2034. This decision accelerates his previous plan for distributing his vast fortune. Gates' foundation acknowledged Buffett's decades of significant past support.

In a letter to the PM, the CM highlighted that Karnataka's agriculture is heavily dependent on the southwest monsoon and warned of severe consequences for farmers, water availability, and food prices if immediate support is not provided.

United States Central Command has held Iran accountable for recent attacks on commercial vessels. Iranian forces deliberately targeted seven commercial ships, causing crew casualties over the past week. The US military has reinstated a naval blockade targeting vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports. This action aims to reduce Iranian capabilities used against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Venezuelan government has announced a tragic update, stating that the death toll from recent earthquakes in the country has tragically climbed to a staggering 4,734. This devastating number reflects the immense loss of life and the profound impact of the seismic events on the nation.

The United States backs Iraq and Syria's pipeline revival efforts. This project aims to bypass the Strait of Hormuz for oil transport. American companies are expected to assist in rebuilding the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline. This initiative seeks to lessen Middle Eastern oil producers' dependence on the strait. Washington has re-imposed a blockade on the chokepoint after recent ship strikes.

Senate Democrats blocked a defense policy bill due to Iran war concerns. They cited President Trump's lack of congressional consultation on military actions. The bill failed to gain enough votes to advance in the Senate. Republicans urged support, stating the bill ensures military readiness. This setback occurs early in the legislative process for the defense bill.

The Writers Guild has sued to block Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery. This legal action follows a similar lawsuit filed by California and eleven other states. The guild argues the merger will reduce competition and suppress writer wages. Paramount contends the deal will expand opportunities and increase production for writers. This lawsuit adds significant legal challenges to Paramount's proposed merger plans.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal held high-level meetings in Brussels with EU Commissioners and Belgian officials. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in agriculture, clean energy, and sustainable industrial development. The meetings aimed to deepen India's strategic economic partnership with the European Union. Goyal also explored opportunities for India's gems and jewellery sector. The visit included participation in the India-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting.

President Trump warned Iran of severe strikes on power plants and bridges. He stated these intensified attacks would begin next week unless talks resume. The United States has continued military strikes for a fourth consecutive day. Iran faces significant consequences if it fails to reach an agreement. Naval blockades targeting Iranian ports have also been resumed by US forces.

A bipartisan US Senate bill proposes sweeping sanctions against Russia's economy. This legislation could impose tariffs on countries buying significant amounts of Russian oil. India is named among five nations potentially facing these new trade penalties. The bill aims to discourage continued energy purchases from Russia. Its passage requires approval from both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard targeted US military assets in Bahrain and Kuwait. These strikes were a direct response to earlier American attacks on Iranian positions. The operation involved simultaneous missile and drone attacks on military facilities. Iran warned of further retaliation if US actions continue in the region. The exchanges highlight a significant escalation of conflict in West Asia.

The United States has announced new Iran-related sanctions. These sanctions target several individuals, entities, and vessels. A general license permits wind-down activities and limited transactions. It also allows offloading of cargo involving certain blocked persons. These details were posted on the Treasury Department's website.

The United States launched a third round of strikes on Iran. Iran retaliated by attacking US military bases in Jordan and Bahrain. Two Emirati oil tankers were struck by Iranian cruise missiles in the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices pared gains after President Trump announced new trade deals. Global markets saw mixed reactions as attacks continued in the region.

Psychology says people who get teeth braces after the age of 30 aren't trying to impress others. In many cases, the decision reflects self-care, long-term planning, and health awareness. Psychology explains that adults often choose braces to improve oral health, confidence, and quality of life. Studies also show that self-improvement choices made in adulthood are often linked with personal goals rather than social pressure.

Wabi-sabi is a Japanese philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection and impermanence. This mindset encourages acceptance of change and appreciation for simple, aged things. The concept, rooted in Zen Buddhism, values rustic simplicity and the beauty of time's marks. Japanese tea ceremonies and art reflect wabi-sabi's influence, promoting humility and inner peace. Embracing this philosophy offers a gentler perspective on life's natural cycles.

Quote of the day by Friedrich Nietzsche: Friedrich Nietzsche's quote emphasizes patience and steady progress toward success. He used the metaphor of learning to fly to illustrate this point. Mastering basics is essential before achieving ambitious goals, which takes time. Every stage of growth is a vital part of the journey.

Japanese mindset of the day: Meaningful achievements are built through small, steady steps over time. This mindset encourages patience and persistence rather than expecting immediate results. Developing resilience and self-discipline are key outcomes of this approach. Trusting the process and maintaining commitment leads to long-term growth and success.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.