The Economic Times

Psychology says people who read bedtime stories to their kids aren't simply helping children fall asleep. Research suggests this daily habit can support empathy and creativity. A study found that children who followed a bedtime reading routine for two weeks showed improvements in both areas. The findings explain how shared reading, conversations about stories, and regular family interaction help children understand emotions, imagine new ideas, and build skills that support learning and relations

Scientific analysis of 23,000-year-old footprints at White Sands National Park in New Mexico has strengthened the case for an unexpectedly early human presence in the Americas. Using fossilised pollen and quartz grain dating alongside earlier radiocarbon methods, researchers say multiple independent lines of evidence now point to the same ancient timeline.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari met the parents of an 11-year-old girl allegedly raped and murdered in Baruipur, assuring them of strict action and capital punishment for the culprits. The victim's body was found on Sunday, leading to protests and the subsequent lynching of a man suspected of involvement. A Special Investigation Team has been formed to probe the incident, with three arrests already made.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust accepted resignations from Champat Rai and Anil Mishra. Krishna Mohan was appointed interim General Secretary, with a permanent decision pending. Gopal Nagarakatte was also removed from the specially invited members list. Seers expressed mixed reactions to Champat Rai's departure from the trust. The trust plans to strengthen administrative and financial systems following these changes.

Nolan Xavier Wells missing: Nolan Xavier Wells, an eighteen-year-old football player, was found dead near Horn Island. He had disappeared during a Fourth of July outing with his friends and was seen talking to a girl before disappearing during Fourth of July trip. An intensive multi-agency search located his body offshore after several days. His family is devastated and seeking answers regarding his final hours. The community mourns the loss of the promising young athlete.

Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has passed away at thirty-eight. He succumbed to a rare immune disorder known as HLH. Zadran represented Afghanistan in forty-four ODIs and thirty-six T20Is. He was a key figure in the country's cricket development. His contributions will remain a significant part of cricket history.

A Tamil Nadu government school employee drawing a starting salary of Rs 1,100 per month quietly accumulated 21 properties, a marriage hall, agricultural land, and household assets worth Rs 53 lakh over 11 years, parking most of it in his wife's name. After a two-decade legal battle, the Madras High Court has upheld the wife's conviction for abetment of disproportionate assets, refusing to reduce her four-year sentence even after her counsel disclosed she is now battling Stage IV cancer.

US legal experts say it would be highly unusual for a federal court to reject the Department of Justice's request to dismiss the criminal case against Gautam Adani. The DOJ has argued the prosecution was legally flawed, difficult to prove and inconsistent with Trump administration priorities, while experts say judges rarely compel prosecutors to pursue abandoned cases.

A construction disaster in Wayanad has resulted in one fatality and several injuries following the collapse of a site, exacerbated by heavy rainfall. Rescue teams are actively searching for individuals who may be trapped in the debris. Officials, including the agriculture minister, have declared this incident a man-made landslide, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures as warnings are issued to Konkan Railways regarding further risks.

China's central bank reported its largest monthly gold reserve increase in over two years. The People's Bank of China added nearly fifteen metric tons to its holdings. This occurred even as gold prices experienced a significant sharp decline during June. The value of China's gold reserves decreased despite the increased quantity of bullion. Traders anticipated higher interest rates and a stronger dollar impacting the market.

An upcoming agreement between India and Indonesia will enhance cooperation in election technology. This collaboration will enable both nations to share best practices and strengthen their election authorities' capabilities. India's innovative Electronic Voting Machines are earning worldwide recognition, with several countries adopting these technologies along with indelible ink, underscoring India's commitment to supporting democratic processes around the globe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indonesian Parliament, highlighting India's commitment to development. He accepted Indonesia's highest civilian honor on behalf of all Indians. Modi spoke of a pivotal phase in the India-Indonesia bilateral relationship. He emphasized shared growth, democratic values, and a common civilizational heritage. The Prime Minister expressed confidence in the future progress of both nations.

The body of a Ukrainian woman, Anastasiia Berezovska, was discovered near Kyiv. She was the chief suspect in a Monaco bomb attack targeting businessman Vadym Yermolaiev. Yermolaiev and his family were injured in the explosion last week. Two individuals, including an intelligence officer, have been detained in connection with the case. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attempted murder and conspiracy.

Quote of the Day: Galileo Galilei believed true understanding comes from personal discovery and exploration. Knowledge cannot be simply transferred from one person to another, he explained. Active engagement with ideas leads to genuine learning and deeper comprehension. This ancient wisdom remains highly relevant in today's information-rich world. It encourages curiosity and critical thinking for all individuals.

The Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme 5.0 has issued over 4.11 lakh guarantees. These guarantees amount to more than Rs 1.55 lakh crore for affected businesses. Micro, small, and medium enterprises received the vast majority of these guarantees. The scheme aims to provide additional liquidity support to eligible borrowers. This initiative helps businesses manage disruptions from the West Asia crisis.

The government will refer the film Satluj to an Inter-Departmental Committee for review. This action follows ZEE5's directive to remove the movie due to security concerns. The film, detailing activist Jaswant Singh Khalra's life, was released uncut on the platform. It had previously faced delays with censors for over three years. The committee will examine grievances related to digital content and make recommendations.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta flagged off 300 electric buses. They also laid the foundation stone for a new multi-level bus depot. This addition increases Delhi's electric bus fleet to approximately 4,800 vehicles. The expansion aligns with the city's policy to promote electric vehicle adoption. The initiative is jointly funded under the Centre's PM E-Drive initiative.

A Japanese teenager was arrested for allegedly using AI to disrupt Bandai Namco's streaming service. The cyberattack caused the cancellation of over 46,000 user accounts and left the platform offline. Investigators believe the student used ChatGPT to help develop software for unauthorized access. Personal data of over 1.3 million members may have been exposed during the incident.

A landslide at a tunnel project site in Wayanad district has prompted authorities to issue a red alert amid severe rainfall in Mananthavady and Vythiri. The disaster has resulted in one confirmed fatality, with seven people reported missing. To safeguard nearby residents, evacuation orders have been executed. The landslide's impact included damage to a private bus parked by Meenakshi Bridge.

A new study published in the Journal of Neuroscience has found that even minor cardiac dysfunction can predict microscopic tissue damage in brain regions associated with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers tracked 73 patients over 3.5 years and found that reduced heart pumping efficiency preceded measurable brain deterioration and memory decline.

The United States is considering new tariffs on sixty nations, including India, due to forced labor concerns. Hearings will begin to discuss potential import duties on goods suspected of forced labor origins. India has rejected these allegations and is presenting its case to US trade officials. This move could impact ongoing trade talks and existing tariff structures. The administration plans to reinstate tariffs similar to those seen previously.

Large parts of Rawalpindi city and the cantonment are grappling with an acute water shortage during the peak summer season, with residents accusing civic authorities of failing to address the worsening crisis, as reported by Dawn.

A Welsh proverb highlights the difference between knowing and understanding information. It compares a spoon in soup to a learned person without wisdom. True wisdom comes from experience and reflection, not just facts. In today's digital age, information is abundant but wisdom is overlooked. This ancient saying remains relevant for lifelong learning and thoughtful action.

Investigators are probing the alleged rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl. One accused allegedly took the victim to a shack where two others were present. Preliminary reports suggest ante-mortem drowning, with injuries found on the victim. The accused attempted to dispose of the body in a nearby pond. The state DGP visited the crime spot and assured a thorough inquiry.

Residents of Delhi can finally breathe a sigh of relief as forecasters predict rain for the next five days. The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning for Delhi-NCR lasting until July 9. With cloudy skies and light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms, temperatures will vary between 32 and 37 degrees Celsius. Following this, the warning level will ease to green on July 10 and 11.

Maharashtra will require domicile certificates for driving licences starting August 2026. This new policy aims to streamline the entire licensing process effectively. The government is also addressing unauthorized bike taxi services currently. A regulatory framework is being developed to legalize and manage this sector. This initiative will generate state revenue and create youth employment opportunities.

A new report suggests an 'India-Plus Contribution Scorecard' for foreign investment. This framework would rate investors on economic contributions like exports and technology. Companies scoring above seventy would receive a ninety-day single-window clearance. National security screening will remain a stringent requirement for all foreign investments. This approach aims to attract rooted, contribution-generating investment for India's economy.

A significant mudslide hit the Kalladi region of Wayanad, Kerala, during a tunnel road project, forcing locals to flee as mud cascaded over the roads and bridge. Rapid response teams, including NDRF personnel, have been dispatched to aid the situation. This disaster, resulting from relentless rains, has disrupted the Anakkompoyil-Meppadi route. Rescue efforts are ongoing to check for possible victims buried under the debris.

Prime Minister Modi will launch a conservation project for the ancient Prambanan Temple. This initiative highlights the deep cultural ties connecting India and Indonesia. The Archaeological Survey of India is partnering for temple restoration and conservation efforts. The upcoming year is declared the 'Tagore-Dewantara Year of Cultural and Educational Diplomacy'.

Suryakumar Yadav supports Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after his international cricket debut. The 15-year-old became India's youngest T20I player, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar. Yadav wished the young player an exciting journey ahead. He encouraged Sooryavanshi to enjoy every moment and make the country proud. Yadav himself was previously dropped after a lean batting period.

ENG vs IND 3rd T20I Playing 11: India will look to level the five-match T20I series when they face England at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. Check the predicted playing XIs, confirmed England XI, team news, full squads and match preview.

Australian online platforms are failing initial age checks for a teen social media ban. Studies show most under-16s can still access platforms despite new laws. Platforms did not ask for age proof on fifty test accounts opened after the law. Only one Australian platform refused account creation without age verification. The government is now doubling fines and warning of court action against tech giants.

Entrepreneur and influencer Anshula Kapoor, daughter of film producer Boney Kapoor and sister of actor Arjun Kapoor, married screenwriter and director Rohan Thakkar on 6 July 2026 at Taj Lands End in Mumbai. The couple met on a dating app in 2022 and got engaged in New York in October 2025.

Saudi Arabia is considering expanding its crude oil pipeline capacity. This move aims to bypass the Strait of Hormuz for exports. Neighbouring countries like Kuwait are also in talks for pipeline access. The expansion could accommodate an additional two million barrels daily.

Color psychology subtly influences human emotions and decision-making processes. Businesses and designers leverage these effects to create stronger consumer connections. Color significantly impacts first impressions and brand recognition for products. Clothing colors can also affect personal confidence and individual performance. Understanding color's psychological impact aids informed choices in daily life.

The United States is discussing missile co-production with European allies. Germany and other nations are considering a maintenance facility for Patriot missiles. These projects aim to increase production capacity for American defense giants. High demand for missiles stems from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Both countries will sign a statement of intent at a NATO forum.

A gold ring found in Thailand bears an ancient Indian Brahmi script inscription. This discovery suggests a significant connection with ancient India nearly two millennia ago. Archaeologists unearthed skeletons and artifacts at the Don Yai Thong burial site. The inscription may indicate a merchant from India's Vaishya trading community. This finding reinforces the historical belief in ancient maritime trade routes connecting the regions.

The Delhi High Court ordered the restoration of the X account for Cockroach Janta Party. This decision revoked the Centre's earlier blocking order after a review found it unsustainable. The court had previously directed a review committee to examine the blocking legality. The platform's founder had challenged the ban, citing free speech protections. Authorities could have removed specific posts instead of blocking the entire account.

US Pakistan relations: In a recent statement, US Senator Rick Scott criticized Pakistan's potential role in mediating US-Iran relations, referencing past missteps that question Islamabad's credibility. At the same time, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid his respects at Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral, vowing to uphold a collaborative relationship with Iran. Scott highlighted the necessity for the US to keep a close watch on Pakistan's activities moving forward.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi rejected US talks, citing threats. He urged the US to honor a signed Memorandum of Understanding. Donald Trump warned of a deal or finishing the job against Iran. Araghchi highlighted national unity and armed forces' resolve against intimidation. Iran condemned US statements, deeming negotiations impossible under military threats.

Marine Le Pen faces a court decision on her appeal regarding EU fund misuse charges. A Paris court previously banned her from elected office for five years. This ruling could determine her eligibility for the 2027 presidential election. Her defense argued against the charges and the existence of a scheme. The court's decision will impact the future leadership of the National Rally party.

NATO will reveal billions in new military projects at a summit in Turkey. These initiatives aim to demonstrate increased defense spending and capabilities to the United States. Allies are presenting new contracts for crucial military equipment and modernization efforts. The alliance seeks to reassure the US about European commitment to collective security. Discussions will also cover regional security concerns and potential arms sales.

Lauren Bennett's death news: Singer-songwriter Lauren Bennett has passed away at age thirty-seven. Her family and representatives have confirmed her death, but the cause remains undisclosed. Bennett was widely recognized for her vocals on the global hit Party Rock Anthem. She also gained fame as a member of the girl group G.R.L. Tributes continue to pour in from fans and fellow artists.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust detailed its extensive gold and silver holdings. These valuables were donated by devotees since the temple's consecration ceremony. The Trust stated all 2,926 donated articles are safe and properly recorded. An independent firm conducts annual physical verification of all temple offerings. The Trust will cooperate with the SIT probe into alleged donation irregularities.