The Economic Times

After 27 years at Google and helping oversee and co-lead the development of Gemini, Jeff Deans final 48 hours were filled with emotional goodbyes, 400 messages, yoga, soccer and a surprising one-minute stint as unemployed before he started his new AI venture. Dean had responded to almost all of the messages within Google's chat system but they kept coming in.

Two infants, Meena and Minal, were adopted from India into Dutch families. They met as teenagers and felt a strong connection, later losing touch. A DNA test revealed they are biological sisters after forty years apart. The sisters now spend much time talking and messaging each other.

Zhu Rongji, China's former premier, spearheaded significant economic reforms during his tenure. He pushed sweeping changes for state-owned enterprises and promoted private home ownership. Zhu also played a crucial role in securing China's entry into the World Trade Organization. His tough stance on inflation and corruption defined his leadership style. Zhu's legacy is tied to China's economic transformation and global integration.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court stated no court approval is needed for rape survivors to terminate pregnancies up to 24 weeks. This observation came while dismissing a petition filed by the father of a 16-year-old rape victim. The court cited a previous order which clarified procedures for pregnancy termination after sexual assault. Judicial proceedings are not required for victims of sexual assault or rape up to 24 weeks.

Quote of the Day by Salvador Dal: Salvador Dals famous quote The secret of my influence has always been that it remained secret, sounds like a clever paradox, but beneath its theatrical surface lies a serious idea about creativity, identity and human attention. Dal understood that people are often drawn to what they cannot completely explain, and his own career became a striking example of that principle.

Quote of the day by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's powerful words resonate through time, urging us to recognize that while lives may fade. His profound quote stresses the importance of commitment to one's ideals and selflessness for a greater cause. By embracing this philosophy, we can inspire others and create a meaningful legacy through our actions.

Google Drive has ended Google Photos backups through its desktop app, leaving users with a new way to protect photos and videos stored on their computers. A simple Google Photos Backup For Desktop hack can help users continue backing up selected folders through Google Photos, while additional local or cloud backups can offer extra protection for precious memories.

Major social media firms face thousands of lawsuits across the United States. These legal actions allege platforms are designed to addict young users and harm mental health. Nearly every US state and over a thousand school districts have filed these complaints. Individual cases and bellwether trials are testing company responsibility for user well-being.

Solar eclipse 2026 will bring a rare celestial spectacle on August 12, with the event expected to create noticeable changes on Earth. As daylight suddenly fades, birds may fall silent, dogs and other animals could behave differently, while temperatures may briefly drop in areas experiencing the eclipse. Heres what scientists say about the surprising effects of a solar eclipse on animals, weather and temperatures.

Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji, known for his bluntness, has died at age ninety-seven. His speeches revealed deep anxieties within China as it approached a leadership transition. Many problems Zhu addressed, like debt and corruption, still plague the Chinese economy today. He pushed significant reforms, transforming China into an emerging economic superpower.

A searchable DeFlock map is drawing attention to the growing network of Flock Safety cameras across America, allowing citizens to see where license plate surveillance cameras are installed in their cities. As concerns grow over privacy, data collection and how vehicle information can be accessed and shared, the map is giving residents a closer look at the surveillance infrastructure around them.

Bank of America plans to invest $250 billion in American infrastructure projects. This initiative will support digital and energy infrastructure development. The bank's financing will also cover core infrastructure like transportation systems. This move follows Morgan Stanley's similar commitment to technology and infrastructure. These investments aim to boost economic growth and create numerous jobs.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, an influential 19th-century philosopher, strongly advocated for self-reliance and original thinking. His work inspired people to follow their instincts and forge their own paths. Emerson's musings on old friendships emphasize the joy of being free from societal pressure, where trust and authenticity create meaningful connections. His timeless ideas continue to empower those in search of inspiration and deeper understanding.

Prince William was reportedly fuming after King Charles and Queen Camilla suggested Catherine, Princess of Wales, change the spelling of her name to Katherine to avoid adding another C to royal monograms. Author Christopher Andersen described Williams reaction as insulting, while royal commentators debated the branding-driven request and Catherines attachment to her name.

Calico, a once-thriving town in California, saw its fortunes rise with a silver rush that began in 1881. Unfortunately, the gold rush faded by the 1890s as silver prices plummeted, causing miners and businesses to abandon the area. In the 1950s, Walter Knott took it upon himself to restore this ghost town. Today, Calico stands proud as a lively historic park, immortalizing its rich mining heritage.

The Supreme Court will hear Tamil Nadu's plea on August 17. This hearing concerns Karnataka's compliance with Cauvery water release orders. The matter was postponed due to a judge's illness, which caused a delay. Tamil Nadu seeks enforcement of the Cauvery Water Management Authority's directives. The court aims to ensure Tamil Nadu receives its rightful water share.

The Supreme Court will hear a plea concerning essential service disruptions during protests. Counsel informed the bench about disturbances to ingress and egress. The court questioned how to issue a specific direction for such issues. This petition was tagged with a pending plea regarding Jantar Mantar protests.

Caro Claire Burke's debut novel Yesteryear has become a significant social media phenomenon. The book explores themes of American fantasy and the performance of womanhood. Anne Hathaway acquired film rights before the novel's official publication date. Yesteryear has spent seventeen weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.

Rahul Gandhi rejected Amit Shah's debate offer on student protests, demanding accountability. He questioned who ordered the alleged police action against students during recent protests. Amit Shah stated the government is ready for a detailed parliamentary discussion on the matter. He countered accusations of absence, citing opposition disruptions in Parliament. The standoff has caused repeated disruptions in both houses of Parliament.

N Chandrasekaran resigned as Tata Sons chairman, ending his nearly decade-long tenure, with his term set to expire in February 2027. His reappointment had received support from Tata Trusts, the nomination committee and board but stalled after opposition from one director. Under Chandra, Tata expanded into aviation, semiconductors, electronics, batteries and digital businesses, while group revenues and profits rose sharply.

Quote of the day by Ed Harris, You cant betray yourself too often, or you become somebody else, explains how repeated compromises can affect personal identity. The quote focuses on self-respect, authenticity, personal values and the choices people make in careers, relationships and personal growth while seeking approval from others.

Lindsay Clancys murder trial could end with a conviction, a not-guilty verdict based on criminal responsibility, or a hung jury. Heres what could happen next in each scenario, including the possible legal and mental-health consequences.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez exchanged vows in a charming ceremony held in Portugal. Their love story, which began when they met in a professional setting, reached a new milestone with their engagement announcement in August 2025. Fast forward to the following year, the two celebrated their union privately. Currently, the family enjoys life in Saudi Arabia after a journey across Europe.

US state primaries threw up mixed results for Donald Trump's endorsed candidates. Mike Lindell lost in Minnesota, while Darline Graham advanced in South Carolina. Lisa Demuth defeated Lindell in Minnesota's Republican gubernatorial primary. Peggy Flanagan secured the Democratic nomination for the US Senate seat.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order reducing routine childhood vaccinations. The order also directs the Justice Department to challenge state vaccine laws. Physicians and vaccine makers swiftly rejected the administration's new vaccine schedule. This move reflects claims linking vaccines and autism, which science disputes. The order aims to pressure states into adopting a narrower immunization schedule.

Oracle is reportedly planning another round of job cuts. This move aims to reduce payroll while investing heavily in AI infrastructure. The company's employee count already fell significantly last fiscal year. Oracle spent billions on data centers and computing capacity for AI demand.

Quote of the day by Sigmund Freud: As the pioneer of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud revolutionized our grasp of the complexities of the human mind. Through his groundbreaking theories on unconscious motivations and dream symbolism, Freud not only provided insights into psychological conditions but also influenced broader cultural narratives. He posited that repressed desires shape behavior, a notion that continues to inspire discussion. Fleeing from Austria in 1938, he later died in London in 193

Peggy Flanagan won the Minnesota Democratic Senate primary, defeating Angie Craig. This victory signals a progressive shift within the Democratic Party. Flanagan will now face Republican Michele Tafoya in the general election. Republicans see an opportunity in Minnesota's divided political landscape. Lisa Demuth secured the Republican nomination for governor.

Darline Graham will face Ralph Norman in the August runoff election. Governor Henry McMaster had appointed Graham to serve the senator's remaining term. Trump endorsed Graham for the full six-year term. The eventual Republican nominee is favoured to win the November election.

People in the US can watch the rare August 12 total solar eclipse online, even though totality will not be visible across the country. Alaska and 26 states will see a partial eclipse, while NASA's livestream will provide views of totality from locations along the eclipse path.

Wisconsin's Democratic gubernatorial primary contest between Francesca Hong and David Crowley is being watched as an indicator of progressive politics in a key state. The winner will face Republican Tom Tiffany in the November general election. Tuesday's contests also questioned Donald Trump's endorsement influence in Republican primaries.

Perfectionism can act as a double-edged sword, inspiring individuals to excel while simultaneously inducing stress and anxiety. Studies indicate that certain perfectionistic traits can lead to achievement, whereas others can be detrimental. Heightened fears of making errors and the quest for unrealistic perfection contribute to burnout. As pressures from modern life escalate, students globally exhibit increased perfectionistic behaviors. Emphasizing growth and learning from errors can help allev

The Office star Lucy Davis has revealed that she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer around a year and a half ago, with the disease having spread to her spine, right hip and ribs. Describing the cancer as incurable and saying it is too late for chemotherapy, Davis said she is focused on making the most of the time she has left. She also spoke about the importance of humour, continuing to work and finding lessons in her experience, while urging people not to ignore potential cancer symptoms.

President Trump stated the United States has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. He warned Iran against any actions that could provoke a forceful response. Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson blamed US-Israeli aggression for the situation. The spokesperson also claimed the Strait of Hormuz would remain open until 2026. Tensions continue to simmer over this crucial global energy chokepoint.

Gold and silver prices opened higher on the MCX as investors awaited US inflation data for cues on the Federal Reserves rate outlook. Rising oil prices and tensions in the Middle East also kept inflation concerns in focus.

Rescue crews and civilians searched through rubble for survivors after a powerful earthquake hit western Colombia. The 7.4 magnitude quake collapsed buildings and buckled roads, leaving thousands missing and injured. Authorities reported at least 181 deaths, while civilian databases suggest a much higher number. The earthquake presents a significant challenge for Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella.

Global youth unemployment increased in 2025, reversing pandemic recovery trends. Young people worldwide now face a worsening job market and fewer opportunities. The Arab States and North Africa experienced the highest youth unemployment rates. Middle-skilled jobs are declining, impacting young workers with secondary education. Artificial intelligence poses further risks to young people's employment prospects.

Sawan Amavasya, also known as Hariyali Amavasya, will be observed on August 12, 2026. Devotees will worship Lord Shiva and perform rituals for their ancestors on this auspicious day. The Amavasya Tithi begins early on August 12 and concludes late that evening. Bathing in holy rivers and making donations are considered highly beneficial practices. These traditions are believed to bring peace, happiness, and ancestral blessings to families.

The Powerball jackpot has soared to an astounding one billion dollars, with the next drawing set for Wednesday, August 12. Players have the option to receive their winnings as a lump sum or through an annuity. Despite the enticing prize, winning remains a daunting challenge with odds standing at 1 in 292.2 million. Previously, multiple smaller jackpots have already been awarded this year.

The Himachal Pradesh government has imposed a new cess on fuel. This levy of sixty paise per litre applies to petrol and diesel. The Widow and Orphan Cess came into effect from midnight on August eleventh. Revenue generated will support welfare measures for widows and orphaned children. This move follows recent legislative amendments empowering the state government.

Ukraine has intensified long-range drone and missile strikes deep inside Russia, targeting oil infrastructure, defence facilities and air defences as Kyiv seeks to shift the wars dynamics. The campaign has strengthened Zelenskyys standing with Trump but faces limits, including Russian counterattacks, air-defence shortages, costly operations and uncertainty over Putins willingness to negotiate.

Arthur Conan Doyle brilliantly illustrates the significance of perception, suggesting it often outweighs the actual actions taken. His iconic character, Sherlock Holmes, epitomizes this notion through exceptional observational skills. As a Scottish author and physician, Doyle introduced timeless characters while also delving into the contentious realm of spiritualism, leaving behind a legacy that remains influential through 'The adventures of Sherlock Holmes'.

In a notable legal decision, a judge mandated that the Kennedy Center compensate jazz musician Chuck Redd with over $250,000. This follows Redd's cancellation of a Christmas Eve show due to President Trump's name being displayed prominently. Although the Kennedy Center threatened legal action for $1 million, the judge dismissed the case, referencing a lack of a binding contract and the protective measures under the district's anti-SLAPP law.

'Deep State coup against Trump: Navarro makes explosive claim, cites newly revealed classified docs