The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Lena Headey reminds people that love often appears in simple daily moments instead of major events. The actress shares how smelling her son's hair during a peaceful morning brings tears to her eyes because of the depth of her love. Her words explain the emotional changes that parenthood can bring and encourage people to value everyday experiences, deep relationships, gratitude and emotional connection.

A bear skull found near Viminacium amphitheater reveals its use in Roman gladiator fights. The bear suffered a frontal bone fracture and showed cage-biting marks on its teeth. This evidence indicates the animal participated in multiple spectacles and likely died from infection. The discovery provides the first osteological proof of brown bears in Roman spectacles. It offers insight into ancient human-wild animal interactions and the empire's entertainment.

Japanese proverb of the day highlights the saying, A silent man is the best one to listen to. The proverb explains why listening is often more valuable than speaking. It teaches lessons about patience, careful observation, learning, peace of mind, trust and quiet wisdom. Even in today's busy world, this Japanese proverb encourages people to think before speaking, understand others and build stronger relationships through silence and thoughtful listening.

The government is currently investigating ways to protect the interests of FCV tobacco farmers. On July 25, a ministry team traveled to Andhra Pradesh to review the ongoing market climate. Their discussions emphasized strategies to support growers while ensuring the industry's stability. Additional Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav reassured farmers about ongoing oversight, underscoring the government's commitment to considering effective protective measures.

Instagram has emerged as a pivotal medium for political discourse and youth involvement, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraging ministers to leverage the platform for showcasing government initiatives. His video highlighting paper leak reforms attracted substantial global attention and followers. The Cockroach Janata Party successfully harnessed Instagram to amplify student protests. Gen Z favors Instagram's short-video format as an effective way to disseminate protest narratives.

The Indian Army seeks indigenous drone-mounted radars for detecting terrorist movement. These systems will penetrate dense forests and thick tree cover effectively. Recent terrorist activities highlight the critical need for such advanced surveillance technology. The army plans a Make II project, encouraging industry-led research and development. This initiative aims to enhance counter-insurgency operations in challenging terrains.

Opposition INDIA bloc leaders will meet Monday to decide on continuing their Parliament protest. Some Congress members want to raise pending demands, including accountability for police actions. Other opposition parties suggest discussing paper leak bills and the Ram temple donation theft case. Rahul Gandhi wrote to the Home Minister regarding police excesses on students. A PDP MLA urged compassion for Kashmiri youth, citing double standards.

Prime Minister Modi honored soldiers on Kargil Diwas, emphasizing India's growing defense capabilities. He noted the indigenous INS Mahendragiri warship as a symbol of self-reliance. Successful tests of Pinaka-I rocket and Kusha missile were also highlighted by the Prime Minister. India's defense exports and political cooperation with friendly nations are expanding significantly. Global confidence in India's defense technology and equipment is steadily increasing.

With global wheat prices soaring, Indian wheat stands to benefit from new export avenues. India, possessing ample wheat reserves, has set the stage for exports through 2026. Current market dynamics, bolstered by increased freight costs and worries over worldwide crop yields, have triggered a price surge. As a result, Indian wheat prices now align favorably for exports to Bangladesh. Additionally, wholesale wheat prices in Delhi reflect this upward trend.

The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee has appealed to international bodies. They are highlighting human rights concerns and seeking global attention for their region. The organization emerged from public discontent over economic hardship and governance failures. Protests against rising prices and services have united diverse local groups. International human rights officials have urged restraint and accountability from Pakistani authorities.

Maharashtra has distributed over eighty-seven percent of elector forms during the ongoing revision. Sixty percent of these distributed forms have now been successfully digitized. Hingoli district leads in form distribution, while Ratnagiri leads in digitization efforts. Major urban districts like Thane and Mumbai show lower percentages for both tasks. This exercise aims to ensure accurate and up-to-date voter lists for future elections.

India's education system requires urgent structural reforms, not just ministerial changes. Early childhood education needs transformation from nutrition centers to learning hubs. Higher education quality remains a concern, with accreditation and faculty development lagging significantly. The disconnect between education and employment is alarming, impacting many educated youth. Expanding apprenticeships and reforming entrance exams are crucial for future success.

India now requires crypto exchanges to collect user tax residency details. Digital asset intermediaries must share transaction data annually with tax authorities. This aligns with the OECD's global Crypto Asset Reporting Framework. The Central Board of Direct Taxes issued a detailed compliance framework for reporting. Data sharing with participating jurisdictions begins next financial year.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated no talks with Pakistan beyond Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He emphasized India's capability to counter any Pakistani misadventure severely. Singh noted Pakistan's state policy of nurturing terrorism and its close ties with militants. He contrasted India's development with Pakistan's focus on terror activities and proxy missions. Safeguarding national security is a shared responsibility for every citizen, he added.

Taxpayers are receiving alerts about undeclared foreign assets before the July 31 deadline. The tax department has uploaded foreign asset data, prompting disclosures and professional help. Lapses stem from ignorance, negligence, or conscious concealment of overseas accounts and properties. Some taxpayers are seeking immunity under a fast-track disclosure scheme for eligible cases. Reconciling discrepancies with past filings and underlying records is now essential for compliance.

Bageshwar district administration has declared a holiday for all schools and Anganwadi centres. This closure is scheduled for Monday, July 27, as a precautionary measure. The decision follows a heavy rainfall warning issued by the Meteorological Department in Dehradun. All government, private, and aided educational institutions will remain shut. This action ensures the safety of students and staff amid the forecast.

Quote of the day by Sean Connery reminds people that courage is needed in everyday life, not only in difficult moments. The famous line from The Russia House explains why honesty, responsibility, kindness and integrity require effort. Although many people believe it is Sean Connery's personal quote, it was spoken by his character Dante in the 1990 film. The message continues to inspire people across generations.

Jyotirmayee Nayak from Odisha has been crowned the winner of Indian Idol Season 16. She took home the winner's trophy along with a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh. Before participating in the singing reality show, Nayak worked as a music therapist, using music to support cancer patients. Her inspiring journey has resonated with many, and she now hopes to pursue a career as a Bollywood playback singer. Her victory also marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the first Odia contestant to win Indian

India's Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scored 81 runs to lead his team to victory. The young player's performance secured a 3-0 series whitewash against Zimbabwe. India posted 192 runs and then restricted the hosts to 157. Sooryavanshi's highest international score came off 49 balls in the final match. He was named man-of-the-match and player-of-the-series for his efforts.

Mottainai, a Japanese philosophy, encourages gratitude for possessions and resources. This mindset promotes mindful consumption and reduces unnecessary wastefulness. It emphasizes repairing items and finding new uses for old belongings. Mottainai influences Japanese culture by valuing transformed objects and extended lifespans. This philosophy offers a thoughtful alternative to modern consumer culture's habits.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju urged all Members of Parliament to attend the upcoming discussion. The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill is scheduled for parliamentary debate tomorrow. Rijiju highlighted historic decisions made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for students' futures.

Best Mexican Proverb of the Day: A popular Mexican saying links mezcal to all life experiences. This phrase suggests embracing challenges and celebrating joys with warmth. Mezcal, a traditional agave spirit, holds deep cultural significance in Mexico. The saying encourages balance and finding comfort in shared moments. It highlights life's journey with both struggles and celebrations.

A Delhi teacher's innovative attendance method is winning widespread praise online after a viral Instagram reel showcased her creative classroom idea. Instead of a traditional roll call, children mark themselves present using a colourful handmade attendance board, encouraging independence and responsibility from an early age. The engaging activity turns a daily routine into an enjoyable learning experience while promoting active participation.

Psychology says people who see and read the message on WhatsApp or other messaging platform but don't reply aren't always trying to ignore someone. Psychology explains that delayed replies can happen because of stress, mental workload, emotional state, priorities, or communication habits. Studies suggest that reading a message without responding immediately does not always show a lack of respect. Understanding this behavior can reduce misunderstandings and improve communication between people.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated no need to revise Budget estimates. Adequate fiscal buffers exist to manage global uncertainties and risks. Inflationary pressures may arise from both external and domestic factors. Industry investment is improving and critical sectors are seeing growth. The government invites industry engagement for further facilitation needs.

The government is actively examining measures to safeguard FCV tobacco farmers' interests. A ministry team visited Andhra Pradesh to review the sector's market situation. Discussions focused on grower protection and sector stability amid taxation policy changes. The delegation observed auction operations at the Tobacco Board Auction Platform. Officials assured growers that the government is monitoring the evolving market situation.

German sayings use unusual imagery to convey simple life lessons effectively. The proverb Klappe zu, Affe tot means accepting when a matter is finished. It encourages recognizing concluded situations instead of revisiting old issues. This saying highlights the importance of accepting endings and focusing energy forward. Modern life applies this proverb to various situations, accepting conclusions and moving ahead.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk will leave Medanta Hospital on Monday after a 26-day fast. He plans to visit Rajghat to honor Mahatma Gandhi before his departure. Wangchuk had previously fasted at Jantar Mantar supporting NEET examination protestors. The 36-day agitation concluded with the Education Minister's resignation on Saturday. Wangchuk was moved to Medanta Hospital following a court order.

Delhi Police will proceed with withdrawing cases against NEET protesters after receiving official guidelines. The government has agreed to provide written assurance on protesters' demands by Tuesday. This withdrawal will not halt the investigation into the alleged larger conspiracy behind the clashes. Over 250 people with criminal backgrounds have been identified using facial recognition technology.

In 132 AD, China built a machine that could detect earthquakes hundreds of miles away through a device created by Chinese scientist Zhang Heng. The machine is known as the first seismograph in history. It used a pendulum, metal dragons, and frogs to detect ground vibrations. The invention helped the Han court learn about earthquakes taking place far from the capital and marked an important step in the history of earthquake detection.

Mirabai Chanu secured the women's 48kg gold medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026. She also set new Commonwealth Games records in the snatch event. India's Chanambam Rishikanta Singh earned a silver medal in the men's competition. Rishikanta equaled the snatch record but narrowly missed gold. Malaysia's Mohamad Aniq Kasdan claimed the men's gold with a Games record total.

Chopra, who won gold on his Commonwealth Games debut at Gold Coast (Australia) in 2018 with a throw of 86.47m, missed the Birmingham 2022 edition because of an adductor injury sustained at the 2022 World Athletics Championships. The 28-year-old now returns fully fit and eager to reclaim the title.

Interacting with the participants, many of whom belong to Gen Z, of the VVV programme 2026 that covered 74 'vibrant villages' across Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, Modi said in the country's border villages, the aspiration for development and the spirit of patriotism are equally cherished. At times, it feels that for these people the country matters more than themselves.

Nandan Nilekani will lead a high-powered task force on examination reforms. He previously co-founded Infosys and chaired the Unique Identification Authority of India. Under his leadership, Aadhaar, India's biometric system, was successfully rolled out. Nilekani also co-chairs the EkStep Foundation, focusing on education and digital infrastructure. His extensive public service and philanthropic work are widely recognized.

A viral video shows many influencers livestreaming on a Chinese street at night. This unusual scene has prompted online discussions about its authenticity and influencer culture. Some users questioned if the footage was real or AI-generated, while others criticized the trend. Discussions also linked street livestreaming to attracting wealthy viewers in affluent neighborhoods. The reactions highlight broader debates around online creators and their audience engagement.

A US-based Indian-American plastic surgeon has spoken out after facing racist and anti-Indian comments online following a video about her bindi. Dr Karishma Reddy shared how the light-hearted post led to a wave of xenophobic abuse, saying she was shocked by the intensity of the anti-Indian rhetoric. She also addressed common misconceptions about Hindu beliefs and traditions, while urging people to treat others with kindness, respect and a willingness to learn about different cultures.

An oil tanker reportedly exploded after deviating from Iran's designated shipping route. This incident occurred amid ongoing diplomatic progress between Iran and Oman. Regional sources indicated that US bombings in the area were intentionally paused. Military leaders cautioned against a broader campaign due to depleting missile interceptors. Iranian forces had previously intercepted commercial ships navigating an unsafe route.

President Trump has paused attacks on Iran to allow more room for diplomacy. The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations stated this to Fox News on Sunday. This pause follows thirteen nights of escalating strikes and a weekend lull in fighting. A senior administration official confirmed the president prefers diplomacy but showed Iran consequences. Iran has not attacked its neighbors during this period of de-escalation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced that the government has set up a high-powered task force on exam reforms under technology expert Nandan Nilekani.

Municipal workers cleaned graffiti from walls around Jantar Mantar on Sunday. The visual marks of a student-led protest were erased by sanitation crews. Over one hundred workers and heavy equipment cleared nearly sixty metric tonnes of waste. Damaged footpaths and curbstones were also repaired to restore the area. The New Delhi Municipal Council completed the clean-up operation after protesters dispersed.

Moroccan proverb of the day: A Moroccan proverb teaches that meeting basic needs lays the foundation for happiness and productivity. When hunger is satisfied, the mind often feels lighter, making it easier to experience joy, think clearly and stay motivated. The saying reminds us that physical well-being and emotional well-being are closely connected. It also encourages gratitude for life's essentials, suggesting that true contentment begins with appreciating what we need rather than constantly

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sarbananda Sonowal regarding Assam's flood situation. He assured full central government support for relief and rescue operations. An Inter-Ministerial Central Team has arrived to assess the damage. The Prime Minister reiterated the safety and wellbeing of Assam's people. The government remains committed to assisting affected families swiftly.

Asaduddin Owaisi has offered an alliance to the Samajwadi Party for Uttar Pradesh elections. He stated his readiness to join hands with Akhilesh Yadav's party. Owaisi expressed a desire to prevent the BJP from securing a third term. He dismissed the B-team label and urged the SP to talk now. The AIMIM chief emphasized a fight for community honor and equal standing.

A social media post has sparked discussion on workplace communication by arguing that replying with o problem after helping a colleague may unintentionally downplay the time and effort involved. The post suggests using alternatives such as happy to help or my pleasure, saying small changes in language can improve workplace interactions while ensuring acts of support are appropriately acknowledged.

Amith Amarnath has spent over a decade transforming Bengaluru's public spaces. His organization, Youth for Parivarthan, has cleaned over 400 locations. They encourage citizens to take responsibility for their surroundings and act. The group also runs a community kitchen for underprivileged people. Their work combines environmental conservation with social welfare initiatives.

London Beer Flood: A massive beer vat burst at a London brewery on 17 October 1814, unleashing a huge wave of porter through nearby streets. The disaster, known as the London Beer Flood, claimed eight lives after the flood destroyed buildings in the densely populated St Giles rookery. Although the brewery survived the incident with financial relief from HM Excise, the tragedy prompted the brewing industry to gradually move away from using enormous wooden storage vats.