The Economic Times

Karnataka is actively seeking to boost economic ties with Hong Kong, focusing on key sectors like semiconductors, fintech, and advanced manufacturing. The state plans to highlight its strengths in chip design and startups to attract investors and venture capital. This initiative aims to leverage Hong Kong's global financial hub status to secure international funding and foster expansion for Karnataka's businesses, building on existing trade relationships.

School assembly news headlines July 7: Prime Minister Modi embarks on a crucial three-nation visit to bolster India's Act East Policy. Meanwhile, the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust faces internal discussions amid donation allegations, and the Indian Navy prepares to commission the INS Mahendragiri. Heavy monsoon rains continue to disrupt life across several states, while the NSE eyes a September IPO.

Saudi Arabia has significantly slashed its August Arab Light crude oil price for Asia, setting it at $1.50 a barrel below the Oman/Dubai average, the lowest since June 2020. This substantial reduction, far exceeding market forecasts, follows a sharp decline in spot crude markets amid increased Middle Eastern supplies. The previous month's price stood at a $9.50 premium.

The Assam government has passed legislation to exempt the Chief Minister's Political Secretary and Political Advisor from the 'office of profit' disqualification for MLAs. This move, replacing a recent ordinance, ensures these positions do not prevent individuals from holding seats in the State Legislative Assembly. The government deemed this necessary in the public interest to allow these key roles to function without legislative impediment.

Pythagoras quote today: Greek philosopher Pythagoras emphasized that true mental strength stems from self-control, not impulsive reactions. He believed that maintaining a clear, reasoned mind, free from the cloud of passion, is crucial for making sound decisions. This discipline allows individuals to navigate life's challenges with greater wisdom and achieve better outcomes.

Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, emphasized that knowing the names of things is crucial for understanding and preserving knowledge. His system of binomial nomenclature revolutionized biology, allowing precise communication and organization of the natural world. This foundational principle remains vital today, underscoring how identification and accurate naming are the bedrock of all learning and discovery, ensuring that valuable insights are not lost to time.

The National Investigation Agency has submitted a forensic report concerning the 11 individuals deceased in last year's Red Fort car bomb explosion. A special judge will now review the findings. Meanwhile, the judicial custody of nine accused has been extended. This follows a chargesheet filed earlier, with a supplementary one adding three more individuals, including a pediatrician linked to a terror module, bringing the total charged to 13.

Quote of the day by Helen Mirren reminds people that difficult times do not last forever. The message encourages resilience, patience and hope during challenging situations. Although the quote is widely linked to Helen Mirren, it originally appeared in H. Jackson Brown Jr.'s Life's Little Instruction Book. The message continues to inspire people to face hardships, learn from setbacks and believe that better days are ahead.

Sawan 2026 Date: The sacred month of Sawan, dedicated to Lord Shiva, begins on July 30, 2026, and concludes on August 28. Devotees will observe auspicious Mondays (Sawan Somwar) on August 3, 10, 17, and 24, alongside Tuesdays dedicated to Goddess Mangala Gauri on August 4, 11, 18, and 25. The Kanwar Yatra and Jalabhishek rituals are central to this period of devotion and seeking blessings.

The government has significantly eased rules for verifying large weighing instruments, those with a capacity of one tonne or more. This move aims to boost business ease by reducing the need for heavy standard weights during checks. The revised regulations now require only 20% of the instrument's maximum capacity in standard weights, down from 50%, streamlining operations and cutting costs for industries and weighbridge owners.

NHS England is set to launch a scheme early next year that will reward people for walking roughly 30 minutes a day, which adds up to a marathon a month. Users will log walks through a phone or smartwatch and become eligible for incentives and discounts. The scheme, developed with Great North Run founder Sir Brendan Foster, aims to sign up over 100,000 people.

The weekend shopping rush has become a hallmark of urban Indian life, with discretionary spending nearly doubling as shoppers flock to malls and entertainment centers. This trend is particularly pronounced in larger metropolitan areas, where categories like fashion, dining, and electronics witness substantial growth. It reflects not only the increasing appetite for aspirational spending but also the pivotal role of major cities in shaping Indias economic consumption patterns.

Dogs tilt their heads for more than an adorable photo. The behavior reveals how dogs process human speech, recognize familiar words, and focus on important sounds. Animal behavior experts believe many dogs adjust their head position to hear voices more clearly while reading facial expressions at the same time. This small habit reflects canine intelligence, attention, and communication.

As Mumbai battles severe flooding, industrialist Anand Mahindra highlighted IAS officer Avishyant Panda's work in Gadchiroli. Panda's district-wide water conservation program, featuring thousands of structures to capture and store rainwater, offers a crucial lesson. Despite heavy downpours, Mumbai's reservoirs remain critically low, underscoring the need for proactive water management and conservation, not just abundant rainfall.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a three-nation tour in Indonesia, aiming to bolster India's Act East Policy and its Indo-Pacific vision. Welcomed by President Prabowo Subianto, Modi highlighted the strong civilizational ties and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. The visit includes engaging with the Indian diaspora and a cultural excursion to the Prambanan Temple, underscoring deep-rooted connections. This trip precedes visits to Australia and New Zealand.

Mumbai's monsoon is severe this year and staying informed is no longer optional. From BMC flood alerts and IIT Bombay's real-time water-level data to local train tracking and radar-based rain maps, these seven apps cover everything a Mumbaikar needs to make safer, smarter decisions during the worst monsoon days.

Bihar's Gunjan Kumar, despite battling a collapsed lung and severe vision impairment, achieved OBC Category Rank 50 in JEE Advanced 2026, securing a Computer Science seat at IIT Delhi. His remarkable journey was powered by his mother, who diligently attended his online classes and prepared handwritten notes during his months-long recovery, ensuring his studies continued uninterrupted. This inspiring story highlights the profound impact of family support in overcoming academic challenges.

Telugu star Allu Arjun virtually appeared before a Hyderabad court regarding a stampede death during a 'Pushpa 2' premiere. The incident, which occurred in December 2024, led to the death of a woman and injury to her son. Arjun, named as an accused, was previously arrested and granted bail. The court has scheduled the next hearing for July 29.

Indian chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa secured a commendable tied third place at the Grand Chess Tour's Croatian leg. Despite an early setback, he rallied strongly, earning 21.5 points. France's Firouzja Alireza clinched the title after a thrilling tie-break against Uzbekistan's Nodirbek Abdusattorov. Praggnanandhaa's performance, while strong, places him sixth in the overall tour standings, highlighting the challenging path ahead for him to reach the finale.

India's naval might is set to grow with the commissioning of the indigenous stealth frigate INS Mahendragiri on July 11. This advanced warship, part of the Project 17A programme, boasts state-of-the-art indigenous weapons and sensors, enhancing maritime operations. With over 75% Indian components, it signifies a major step in the nation's self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Summer McIntosh 200 fly world record: Canadian swimming sensation Summer McIntosh, just 19, has shattered the women's 200m butterfly world record, a mark that stood for 16 years. Her stunning 2:01.65 performance at the Canadian Trials solidifies her status as a dominant force in the sport. Already an Olympic champion and multiple world record holder, McIntosh continues to redefine swimming excellence, captivating fans worldwide with her extraordinary talent.

Sudan's brutal conflict has claimed over 300 young lives or left them injured in just six months, primarily due to drone attacks, UNICEF reports. The war, raging since April 2023, has devastated regions like Kordofan and Darfur, with civilian infrastructure increasingly targeted. International bodies are voicing grave concerns over escalating violence and potential atrocities, urging protection for civilians and unimpeded humanitarian aid amidst a deepening crisis.

Two foreign women, allegedly abducted and gangraped in Lahore, have departed for Europe after completing legal procedures. The incident, which occurred on June 29, involved women from the Netherlands and Venezuela. Police have apprehended eight suspects, including the grandson of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who reportedly met the victims through a cryptocurrency venture. The accused face charges of kidnapping and gangrape, with political calls for Dar's resignation emerging.

Nestle India is launching a pivotal Global Capability Centre in Hyderabad, alongside major names such as McDonald's and L'Oral, to tap into India's immense growth opportunities. While inflation poses challenges, Nestle is committed to long-term resilience and is focusing on rural and semi-urban areas. This strategic move is in line with the burgeoning GCC sector in India, poised to become a significant catalyst for job creation and investment.

America's egg supply chain is shaken as three major producers agree to a $3.3 million settlement and donate 53 million eggs. Accused of secretly coordinating bids to inflate prices, these companies allegedly manipulated a key industry benchmark, exacerbating the egg price shock beyond bird flu's impact. While denying wrongdoing, the settlement aims to prevent future price-fixing, highlighting concerns over corporate practices affecting consumer costs.

A recent landslide on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway's new Missing Link corridor, inaugurated just nine weeks ago, has caused significant traffic disruption. Heavy overnight rainfall led to mud and rock flow onto the Pune-to-Mumbai carriageway, forcing its complete closure. Commuters are advised to postpone travel between the cities as both the new link and the old highway face disruptions due to adverse weather conditions.

Bhang not ganja: The Jharkhand High Court has acquitted a man convicted under the NDPS Act for allegedly carrying 11 kg of ganja, after a Forensic Science Laboratory report established that the seized substance was bhang and not ganja. The court held that bhang falls outside the definition of cannabis under the NDPS Act and cannot be treated as a punishable offence under it.

AMMK chief T T V Dhinakaran has urged the Tamil Nadu government to initiate contempt proceedings against Karnataka for proceeding with Mekedatu dam construction, allegedly violating Supreme Court orders. He called for Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and halt the unilateral work.

Former batter Sanjay Manjrekar has labelled India's decision to drop Sanju Samson for the second T20 against England as izarre. While praising 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's historic debut, Manjrekar questioned Samson's exclusion, suggesting both could have been accommodated. Samson, a T20 World Cup star, was replaced by Sooryavanshi, who impressed in the IPL. India lost the match, trailing the series 0-1.

Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed has been named an accused in the Pahalgam terror attack supplementary chargesheet by the NIA. Filed in Jammu, the chargesheet implicates Saeed for waging war against India and hatching conspiracies from across the border. This follows an earlier charge sheet naming a Pakistani handler and slain terrorists involved in the deadly attack that claimed 26 lives.

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Centre and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to respond to a petition claiming a temple exists within the Taj Mahal premises. The plea, filed by a temple trust and others, challenges lower court rejections of requests for an advocate commissioner to survey the disputed site.

George Clooney, the acclaimed actor, offers a poignant perspective on aging, suggesting life's true value lies in the journey, not a perfect ending. He acknowledges life's inherent difficulties and the pain of loss, but emphasizes cherishing experiences and relationships. Clooney's reflections encourage appreciating the present moments and the connections we forge, making each stage of life meaningful despite its inevitable challenges.

Prince Harry will not be staying at Buckingham Palace during his UK visit this week, despite earlier reports. He reportedly did not formally accept an offer for royal accommodation by a deadline. The estranged royal's trip for charity engagements is overshadowed by security disputes and his family's absence. Harry has lived in the US since stepping down as a working royal in 2020.

A public toilet in China's historic Dunhuang city is captivating the world, drawing crowds and becoming an unexpected tourist hotspot. Industrialist Harsh Goenka shared a viral video of the five-star facility, inspired by the Mogao Grottoes. Boasting a labyrinthine cave design, it offers premium amenities like free beverages, phone booths, and luxury toiletries, transforming a basic utility into a cultural attraction.

A tragic single-vehicle collision in Nova Scotia, has resulted in the death of a man from Springhill. Emergency crews responded to the scene on Highway 321 where a Honda Civic reportedly veered off the road and struck a culvert. The driver, who was the sole occupant, was transported to the hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries.

Anime enthusiasts, rejoice! Solo Leveling is returning with a new movie, 'Beyond the System,' slated for release in late 2026. Co-produced by industry giants, this film promises to continue Sung Jinwoo's epic journey after the events of Season 2. While a third season's fate remains uncertain, this cinematic adventure offers a thrilling glimpse into the future of the beloved franchise.

Best Proverb of the day: The German proverb Krummes Holz gibt auch gerades Feuer (Crooked logs also make straight fires) teaches that imperfections do not determine a person's worth or ability. The proverb reminds people to look beyond appearances and recognise the value in everyone. Its enduring message promotes acceptance, resilience and the understanding that true character is revealed through actions, not outward perfection.

Unpaid care work, not job scarcity, keeps most Indian women out of the workforce in major cities, a new survey reveals. While female labour force participation is slowly rising, it remains low globally. Despite better job quality in these cities, a significant wage gap persists, with women earning considerably less than men, especially in self-employment. Longer working hours are also noted.

Hamas is preparing to dissolve the body that has governed the Gaza Strip for nearly two decades, officials from the group said Monday, clearing the way for a Palestinian technocratic committee to implement civilian rule. The dissolution of the Hamas body paves the way for the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), headed by Palestinian official Ali Shaath, to assume administrative responsibilities.

The Delhi High Court has directed the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to decide within two weeks on a show-cause notice issued to grappler Vinesh Phogat concerning indiscipline and alleged anti-doping rule violations. The court noted that Phogat's grievance regarding Asian Games selection trials was now resolved, but she may need to file a fresh petition for broader selection policy challenges.

Residents of Wah Model Town are facing severe urban flooding and overflowing sewage due to clogged drains and administrative neglect. Developed in the 1990s under the Wah Cantonment Board, infrastructure has failed to match its expansion. Residents regularly pay taxes but receive inadequate municipal services, worsening environmental and public health concerns.

Severe weather is impacting multiple US states following Fourth of July storms. Dangerous heat advisories are in effect for the Mid-Atlantic and Arizona, with temperatures soaring. Wildfire smoke has led to air quality alerts in Colorado. Meanwhile, heavy thunderstorms are causing flooding concerns in Tennessee and Louisiana, while Florida braces for strong storm activity.

Comcast's Sky is acquiring ITV's broadcast channels and streaming service for 1.6 billion, aiming to create a British media giant capable of challenging global streaming players. This landmark deal, set to face regulatory scrutiny, combines the UK's largest free-to-air broadcaster with a leading pay-TV provider. The merged entity will dominate the UK TV ad market.

Norway's World Cup triumph over Brazil has sparked a secondary sensation: a viral clip appearing to show Princess Ingrid Alexandra hugging a shirtless Erling Haaland. While the hug remains unconfirmed by royal officials, the princess and her brother were visibly jubilant in the stands. This historic win, Norway's first quarterfinal appearance, offers a welcome ray of sunshine amidst the royal family's recent health challenges.