SENSEX
NIFTY
GOLD
USD/INR

Weather

image 31    C

The Economic Times

Global Business / The Economic Times

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spent $7 million on fish ladders in 1938 to move salmon past Bonneville Dam; decades later, the system carries 1 million a season in good years

The Bonneville Dams fish ladders, designed as part of a New Deal initiative, remain operational after decades of service. The construction saw a notable increase in budget allocation. Annually, millions of fish traverse these ladders, predominantly hatchery-reared. However, wild salmon populations continue to dwindle, impacted by upstream dams and climate change, underscoring persistent environmental challenges despite the fish ladders' effectiveness.

2 Sep 2026 3:20 pm
Maryland spent $12 million on a fish lift in 1991 to move American shad past Conowingo Dam; decades later, annual runs remained far below the 2 million-fish target

Maryland invested $12 million in a fish lift to help migrating shad overcome the Conowingo Dam. This technological solution proved ineffective, moving only a fraction of the targeted fish annually. Experts now favor dam removal over fish passage structures like lifts and ladders. The state is investing $340 million in environmental upgrades and trucking fish past the dam. This situation reflects costly infrastructure projects that under-delivered on their initial goals.

2 Sep 2026 3:10 pm
AirAsia launches first codeshare with Turkey's Pegasus Airlines

AirAsia has launched its first codeshare partnership with Pegasus Airlines. This collaboration opens connections between Southeast Asia and Europe via Istanbul. Initially, five European destinations are covered by this new route network. AirAsia will increase its Kuala Lumpur-Istanbul flights to daily services. The airline's planned Bahrain hub remains on track for March 2027.

2 Sep 2026 3:08 pm
In 1995, Florida sank three F-106 jets off Bay County; later surveys found reef fish and greater amberjack around the aircraft

In the Gulf of Mexico, decommissioned fighter jets have found a new lease on life as artificial reefs, fostering vibrant marine ecosystems. After being stripped of hazardous materials, these aircraft are sunk to promote habitat for diverse fish populations. This innovative conservation strategy not only bolsters marine biodiversity but also brings economic advantages, showcasing a remarkable synergy between nature and technology.

2 Sep 2026 3:00 pm
University of Kentucky researchers pressure-cooked bourbon stillage into hydrochar; its supercapacitors stored up to 25 times more energy, while another design retained 96% capacity after 10,000 cycles

Chemists at the University of Kentucky have pioneered a remarkable technique to recycle bourbon stillage, converting this distillation waste into carbon-rich hydrochar for the creation of advanced supercapacitors. These innovative energy storage devices not only outperform traditional models in energy retention but also exhibit outstanding reliability, maintaining a high level of storage even after prolonged use.

2 Sep 2026 2:50 pm
In 2025, Monash researchers developed a self-adaptive microporous ceramic; daytime cooling reached 19.5C below ambient while nighttime overcooling was limited to 3.3C

Scientists have unveiled an innovative ceramic designed for passive radiative cooling applications. This advanced material efficiently lowers daytime temperatures while controlling excessive cooling at night. Its unique microporous framework facilitates optimal heat transfer with the environment, tackling a major obstacle in radiative cooling technology. This breakthrough holds great promise for cutting down energy usage in buildings.

2 Sep 2026 2:40 pm
In 2010, NASA launched a 12-pound, loaf-of-bread-sized satellite with two Bacillus populations; radiation exposure reached about 15 times that of the ISS orbit

NASA's O/OREOS mission embarked on an exciting journey to observe how bacteria withstand the rigors of space radiation. The compact satellite, about the size of a loaf of bread, zipped around Earths magnetic poles, subjecting dried bacterial spores to intense radiation over several months. While initial germination and growth were sluggish and ultimately showed abnormalities, the mission confirmed that nanosatellites are viable platforms for conducting autonomous biological research in space.

2 Sep 2026 2:30 pm
In 2023, CUHK researchers milled glass bubbles for 5 minutes before mixing cooling paint; solar reflectivity rose from 75.8% to 95.8% during field tests at noon

Innovative researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking paint designed for energy-free cooling in buildings. By incorporating larger glass bubbles and optimizing their milling process, this paint achieves remarkable solar reflectance, leading to lower surface temperatures. This advancement not only makes cutting-edge cooling technology more affordable but also ensures easier access for wider applications. Upcoming tests will evaluate its durability over time and potential for large-scale productio

2 Sep 2026 2:20 pm
NASA satellites compared the Aral Sea between 2000 and 2014; river diversion left its eastern basin as exposed desert

NASA's satellite images illustrate a dramatic transformation of the Aral Sea from 2000 to 2014, driven by the diversion of rivers for agricultural purposes. The resulting shrinkage has left behind salt flats and disrupted local communities and climates. Nevertheless, the construction of dams by Kazakhstan has sparked a modest recovery in the North Aral Sea, revealing both the impacts of human intervention and the potential for environmental revival.

2 Sep 2026 2:10 pm
Kuki MLAs attend Manipur Assembly session for first time since ethnic strife eruption

Kuki MLAs Kimneo Haokip Hangshing and Haokholet Kipgen attended the Manipur Assembly session in Imphal on Wednesday for the first time since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023. Their attendance came despite a Kuki Inpi Manipur directive against travelling to Imphal. Manipur currently has nine Kuki, Zomi and Hmar MLAs.

2 Sep 2026 2:06 pm
Nepal seeks climate compensation from India, China and US after deadly floods leave 1,100 dead, 4,000 missing

Nepal seeks climate compensation from worlds biggest emitters of greenhouse gases. Deadly floods killed over a thousand people and left many missing. The nation demands justice for climate-related losses and damages. Nepal is pressing wealthier nations for climate funding ahead of a UN summit. This push highlights the global debate over disaster costs.

2 Sep 2026 2:05 pm
In 1998, NASA sent oyster toadfish into space on Space Shuttle Columbia; over 16 days in orbit, researchers studied how their balance systems adapted to microgravity

In 1998, saltwater toadfish participated in the Columbia's Neurolab mission, offering insights into the effects of microgravity on the nervous system. Their inner ear adaptations revealed how their vestibular system modified its sensitivity in the absence of gravity. Upon returning to Earth, the adjustments mirrored the disorientation experienced by astronauts, further enhancing our understanding of balance and safety in space exploration.

2 Sep 2026 2:00 pm
African proverb of the day: 'Until the lion has a historian, the hunter will always be the hero.' Life lessons on why every story has two sides and the version you hear may not always be the truth

African proverb of the day: This African proverb highlights how stories often favour the tellers viewpoint. The hunters tale can overshadow the lions experience when the lion has no historian to tell its side of the story. It shows how history can be shaped by those who record and share it. Listening to diverse voices is crucial for gaining a fuller understanding of events, while considering missing perspectives can offer a more balanced view of reality.

2 Sep 2026 1:58 pm
Muslim social worker started Janmashtami celebration in Kolkata's Mominpore 58 yrs ago but now the muslim organisers have been removed and Hindus have taken over the committee

This year, a well-known Kolkata Janmashtami celebration is undergoing a noteworthy organizational change. The event, which has historically embraced multicultural involvement, will now be exclusively managed by Hindu members. This decision comes in light of comments made by a local BJP representative regarding religious festivities. The Muslim community has been a vital part of this celebration for many years, marking its significance in the 58th iteration.

2 Sep 2026 1:54 pm
Pakistan's Punjab Assembly seeks ban on social media accounts for children under 16

The Punjab Assembly has passed a resolution seeking a legal ban on social media for children under sixteen. This move addresses growing concerns over cyberbullying and online exploitation of minors. Lawmakers unanimously adopted the resolution, urging federal legislation for stricter access controls. The assembly cited international examples from Australia and France in its recommendation. This action reflects global efforts to enhance online safety for young internet users.

2 Sep 2026 1:50 pm
In 1998, NASA flew crickets on Neurolab to study how spaceflight affects developing nervous systems; across the 16-day mission, they joined about 2,000 animals in space

During the Neurolab mission, the space shuttle Columbia hosted 2,000 animals, crickets being one of them, to examine spaceflight's impacts on brain and nervous system development. By focusing on the crickets' fundamental gravity-sensing mechanisms, scientists identified key alterations in cellular processes. These discoveries on neuropeptide and interneuron dynamics are vital to comprehending how space travel affects human balance and the challenges faced by astronauts.

2 Sep 2026 1:50 pm
SCO Summit: Kazakhstan's Tokayev echoes PM Modi on Eurasian security, human centric approach

At the recent SCO summit, Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasised the group's evolution and a collaborative philosophy. He called for enhanced mutual trust in security while prioritising expanded economic partnerships.

2 Sep 2026 1:49 pm
A PhD student used shredded baby diapers in a prototype Indonesian house; 27% of its non-structural concrete blocks contained diaper waste, totaling about 3,700 pounds

An extraordinary house in Indonesia has creatively utilized nearly 3,700 pounds of discarded diapers. This unique construction method incorporates recycled materials, significantly reducing the need for sand. The process involves several stages: washing, drying, and shredding the diapers before combining them with concrete. Although this innovative approach shows great potential for affordable and sustainable housing, challenges related to infrastructure and regulations may hinder its widespread

2 Sep 2026 1:40 pm
When roads end, drones carry dead home in flood-hit Nepal

Drones are now carrying the dead home from inaccessible flood-ravaged areas in Nepal. These unmanned aerial vehicles are also delivering vital food and medicine to cut-off communities. AI-enabled drones are assessing villagers' needs through simple questions and responses. The technology proved crucial after roads and bridges were washed away by recent floods. This evolving drone capability offers a significant shift in Nepal's disaster response efforts.

2 Sep 2026 1:38 pm
RMIT engineers mixed 1% recycled cigarette butts into fired-clay bricks, and the bricks matched standard strength while cutting firing energy by 10%

In Melbourne, engineers are pioneering a groundbreaking technique to integrate discarded cigarette butts into building bricks. This eco-friendly innovation looks to recycle billions of cigarette filters each year, creating bricks that are not only structurally sound but also require less energy to produce. By firing the bricks at high temperatures, harmful toxins in the filters are effectively neutralized, presenting a promising solution to the ongoing litter crisis.

2 Sep 2026 1:30 pm
In 2024, South Dakota State University researchers turned banana peels into biodegradable film; it reached 31.3 MPa tensile strength and lost more than half its weight in moist soil within three weeks

Scientists at South Dakota State University have transformed banana peels into a plastic-like film that is biodegradable and breaks down in soil within roughly a month. This innovative material boasts the strength necessary for multiple packaging uses, and researchers are committed to enhancing its flexibility and increasing production capacity. This breakthrough provides a hopeful solution in the fight against plastic pollution.

2 Sep 2026 1:20 pm
In Massachusetts, Bar-Way Farm digests 36,500 tons of food waste and 9,125 tons of manure every year, producing enough electricity for 900 homes

In Deerfield, Massachusetts, Bar-Way Farm is leading the charge in renewable energy by harnessing food waste and cow manure to create electricity. Their anaerobic digester processes around 100 tons of food waste every day, generating enough energy to power about 900 homes annually. The farm then utilizes the remaining digestate both as fertilizer and bedding for their cows, showcasing an effective circular economic model that promotes sustainable farming practices.

2 Sep 2026 1:10 pm
In 1967, Biosatellite II irradiated parasitic wasps for 2 days in orbit; females later laid as many eggs as controls, and hatchability remained excellent

A 1967 NASA mission sent parasitic wasps into orbit around Earth. These wasps showed surprising resistance to radiation damage while in space. Ground experiments failed to replicate this protective effect observed in orbit. This old experiment raises questions about spaceflight's impact on living cells. The findings remain relevant for future long-duration space missions.

2 Sep 2026 1:00 pm
Drought, wildfires & a brutal 'once-in-a-millennium' summer plague Britain

Britain has endured its hottest summer on record, marked by successive heat waves, drought, destructive wildfires and water restrictions. The Met Office said the 16.5C mean temperature surpassed last years record. Scientists say human-caused climate change made such extreme heat 130 times more likely, underscoring a deepening climate crisis.

2 Sep 2026 12:15 pm
Psychology explains why some wives ask questions when they already know the answer - And what they may really be looking for from their husbands

When it comes to relationships, questions often ignite emotional dialogues rather than merely requesting information. Partners may look for signs of reassurance, connection, or simply the comfort of being heard by their loved ones. Research highlights that our attachment styles can significantly shape the influence of reassurance-seeking on relationship trust. Sometimes, a need for reassurance can point to underlying anxieties or insecurities.

2 Sep 2026 12:07 pm
'We need to impeach Trump now...': Sen. Ed Markey delivers victory speech

'We need to impeach Trump now...': Sen. Ed Markey delivers victory speech

2 Sep 2026 11:49 am
Quote of the day by Britney Spears: 'There's only two types of people in the world: the ones that entertain, and the ones that...' - Thought-provoking lessons from the 'Princess of Pop' on human behavior, social confidence, individuality and why some people naturally command attention while others prefer to watch, listen and understand

As a teenage pop phenomenon in the late 1990s, Britney Spears captivated audiences worldwide. Her infectious tunes and striking image became the soundtrack of a generation, while her tumultuous personal life was under constant media watch. Following a fourteen-year conservatorship that dictated her choices, November 2021 symbolized her newfound autonomy, culminating in a revealing memoir that explores her experiences with fame and the quest for personal freedom.

2 Sep 2026 11:03 am
Meloni government becomes Italy's longest-lasting

Giorgia Meloni: In a country once a byword for political instability, Italy's first woman leader will have been in charge of the same administration for 1,413 days, one more than the late Silvio Berlusconi managed during one of his four stints in office.

2 Sep 2026 10:56 am
Deadlocked jury in Lindsay Clancy trial: What happens next if no verdict is reached?

A Massachusetts jury is deliberating for a fifth day on Lindsay Clancy's criminal responsibility for strangling her three children, with conflicting testimony on her postpartum mental health. If the jury deadlocks, a mistrial will be declared, potentially leading to a retrial or a plea deal. The case highlights the complexities of maternal mental health and has drawn significant public attention, drawing parallels to the recent Karen Read trial.

2 Sep 2026 10:44 am
Aura farming sweeps Latin America as young people turn online trend into real-world contests

Young people in Latin America are participating in real-world aura battles. These events involve creative dancing and performances for audience recognition. The trend, originating online, has moved offline and gained popularity. Competitions are occurring in various cities across South America and Spain. Some officials have raised concerns, while others embrace the phenomenon.

2 Sep 2026 8:06 am
Xi visits Egypt as China seeks deeper influence across the Mideast

Chinese President Xi Jinpings Egypt visit is deepening Beijings ties with a key US ally while advancing Chinas bid for greater Middle East influence. The three-day trip highlights expanding economic, diplomatic and strategic cooperation, including Belt and Road projects and Suez Canal access, as regional tensions reshape longstanding geopolitical alignments.

2 Sep 2026 8:03 am
Mass burials in Nepal as death toll from flash floods exceeds 1,000

Rescue teams continued searching debris-strewn areas along the Nepal-China border for thousands missing after catastrophic Himalayan floods killed more than 1,000 people. Nepal reported 1,003 deaths and 3,916 missing, while China recorded 16 deaths and 546 missing.

2 Sep 2026 7:57 am
5 Tamil Nadu pilgrims stranded in flood-hit Nepal return safely to Chennai; Minister D Sarathkumar meets survivors

Five Tamil Nadu pilgrims stranded in Nepal after devastating flash floods returned safely to Chennai on Tuesday, with state minister D Sarathkumar receiving them at the airport. The MEA said 163 Indian nationals had been rescued. Nepals death toll reached 1,050, while nearly 3,916 people remained unaccounted for amid continuing rescue operations.

2 Sep 2026 7:52 am
Nepal's young PM Balendra Shah faces first major test as deadly floods expose governments limits

Nepal's prime minister faces his first major test after a glacial collapse disaster. This catastrophe killed over one thousand people and left thousands more missing. Reconstruction costs are estimated to be in the billions of dollars for the nation. The disaster threatens the prime minister's reform agenda and economic development plans. This event also highlights Nepal's environmental fragility and climate change challenges.

2 Sep 2026 7:52 am
Gold hits over two-week low, US jobs data in focus

On Wednesday, gold prices hit their lowest point in two weeks, driven down by rising Treasury yields and a stronger dollar that made the metal pricier for international customers. As investors look ahead to key U.S. jobs data for hints about interest rate trends, Federal Reserve officials have hinted at possible rate increases should inflation remain a concern. Meanwhile, movements in other precious metals were mixed during early trading.

2 Sep 2026 7:22 am
Trump says he is not seeking Iran talks, claims US has almost total control of Hormuz

Donald Trump stated he is not forcing Iran into negotiations. He expressed satisfaction with the current United States position and control. The United States now holds almost total control of the Hormuz Strait. Iran's economy is reportedly collapsing, and Trump awaits public uprising. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical route for global energy shipments.

2 Sep 2026 7:19 am
Oil up nearly 1% as US and Iran trade fresh strikes

Brent crude futures rose 87 cents, or 0.92%, to $95.52 a barrel by 0008 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures climbed 80 cents, or 0.89%, to $91.02. Both contracts soared more than $4 on Tuesday, marking Brent's largest gain since July 24 and WTI's largest since July 23.

2 Sep 2026 7:11 am
In 2006, NASA and French Space Agency CNES launched a satellite in a joint mission to probe the properties of Earth's thin clouds and aerosols

In 2006, NASA and French Space Agency CNES launched a satellite in a joint mission to probe the properties of Earth's thin clouds and aerosols. CALIPSO studied clouds and airborne particles from orbit. Its data helped scientists understand climate, weather and air quality, while its observations improved atmospheric models and satellite weather measurements.

2 Sep 2026 2:30 am
Quote of the day by Sam Cooke: 'I think the secret is really observation. Well, if you observe what's going on and try to...' - inspiring quote by Wonderful World and You Send Me singer teaches life lessons on observation, communication and human connection

Quote of the day by Sam Cooke: Sam Cooke believed observation was the secret to understanding people. He suggested observing and figuring out how people think helps communication. This understanding allows for clearer and more relatable messages to be conveyed. Cooke, a renowned singer, began in gospel before pop success.

2 Sep 2026 2:21 am
In 1990, NASA sent a X-ray telescope into space on Space Shuttle Columbia for the first time to perform observations of galactic and extragalactic objects: What was BBXRT?

In 1990, NASA sent a X-ray telescope into space on Space Shuttle Columbia for the first time to perform observations of galactic and extragalactic objects. The Broad Band X-ray Telescope, or BBXRT, flew during the STS-35 mission as part of the ASTRO-1 payload. It studied X-ray sources across a broad energy range and tested focusing X-ray optics in space.

2 Sep 2026 2:05 am
Earlier in 2026, WSU researchers heated and pressurized sewage sludge with oxygen, producing 200% more renewable gas. Now the process cuts treatment costs from $494 to $253 per ton

WSU researchers treated sewage sludge under high temperature and pressure while introducing oxygen. Under those conditions, the relatively small amount of oxygen acts as a catalyst, helping break apart long polymer chains and making the organic material easier for microbes to process.

2 Sep 2026 2:01 am