The Economic Times

Chandrashekhar Azad Jayanti Status: India remembers Chandrashekhar Azad on his 120th birth anniversary today. He became a legend at fifteen for his defiant stand against British authorities. Azad was a key organizer of revolutionary activities during the freedom struggle. He chose to die by his own hand rather than be captured by police. His spirit of freedom continues to inspire young Indians facing impossible odds.

Sawan, a holy Hindu month dedicated to Lord Shiva, will commence soon. Devotees observe fasts and visit temples for blessings and spiritual growth. Mondays during Sawan, known as Sawan Somwar, are particularly sacred for worship. The observance dates for Sawan 2026 differ between North and South India. Specific regional calendars should be consulted for precise observance timings.

Uttarakhand authorities have arranged special traffic for the upcoming Neelkanth Yatra. The pilgrimage for Kanwar pilgrims is scheduled from July 30 to August 11. Coordination meetings focused on smooth movement for vehicles and pedestrians. Designated parking and traffic routes have been established to manage the expected rush. Officials aim to ensure a safe and pleasant journey for all devotees.

Rescue operations recovered nine more bodies, bringing the total to twenty-two deceased workers. Specialized teams worked tirelessly through the night under extremely challenging tunnel conditions. The incident occurred after a suspected methane gas explosion in the under-construction tunnel. State officials announced financial aid and a thorough inquiry into the accident. Rescue efforts continue as authorities monitor the ongoing situation closely.

Devshayani Ekadashi in 2026 falls on July 25, marking Lord Vishnu's cosmic slumber. Devotees will observe a day-long fast and offer prayers for peace and prosperity. This sacred period, known as Chaturmas, begins with this significant Ekadashi observance. Puja rituals involve waking early, bathing, and worshipping Lord Vishnu with specific offerings. The fast is traditionally broken on the following day after the Dwadashi Tithi begins.

The India Meteorological Department issued a fresh weather alert for the nation. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in eleven states including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Coastal districts of West Bengal will receive heavy showers until June twenty-fourth. Northern districts of West Bengal could experience heavy downpour from July twenty-sixth to twenty-ninth. Light to moderate rain is forecast for sub-Himalayan districts over the next few days.

Iran warns of regional oil disruption if its exports are blocked. The United States conducted further strikes against Iran's infrastructure. President Trump threatened to destroy Iranian bridges or power plants. Diplomatic efforts show little public sign of progress between the nations. The conflict threatens worldwide economic disruption and rising fuel prices.

Macquarie Group has appointed Greg Ward as its new chief executive officer. He will replace Shemara Wikramanayake, who is retiring from the position. Ward, a long-serving executive, will take over the role on November 6. Investors view this appointment as a sign of confidence in the bank's strategy. The bank's chair, Glenn Stevens, is also scheduled to retire next year.

Illegal gravel mining has sparked a political storm at Andhra Pradesh's sacred Panchadarla hills. Opposition alleges a close aide of an MP is involved in the mining operations. The state mines department found gross violations and excess gravel extraction by the operator. Sacred springs supplying water to the temple have reportedly turned muddy due to the mining. The opposition demands a no-mining zone declaration and a thorough investigation.

Delhi anticipates generally cloudy skies for the upcoming six days. Light rain and drizzle are expected on Wednesday and Thursday. Daytime temperatures will remain between 33 and 34 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels are predicted to stay high throughout this period. The India Meteorological Department has not issued any weather warnings.

Secretary Rubio will meet Lavrov in Manila to discuss ending the Ukraine war. He also plans to explore other areas of potential cooperation between the two nations. Rubio discussed a recent South China Sea incident with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi. This incident involved Chinese and Filipino forces in a disputed area. ASEAN foreign ministers are also negotiating a non-aggression pact for the South China Sea.

The US House approved a defense bill authorizing record funding for the Pentagon. This legislation includes a pay raise for service members and strengthens missile defense systems. The bill faces further debate in the Senate as political polarization continues. Democrats expressed concerns over military spending and the bill's provisions. Increased cooperation with Israeli armed forces is also a point of contention.

Opposition floor leaders will meet to strategize their joint parliamentary approach. Parliament remains stalled as the opposition demands a minister's resignation. They also insist on discussing the NEET-UG paper leak under a specific rule. The government is ready for debate but opposes new conditions. Meanwhile, a TMC leader criticized his party's suspended members.

The European Union approved Paramount's Warner Bros. Discovery takeover with specific distribution conditions. This approval clears a major regulatory hurdle for the significant media merger. However, a US federal judge has temporarily halted the transaction for two weeks. This pause stems from a lawsuit filed by eleven US states seeking to block the deal. Paramount has received other international regulatory clearances while facing ongoing US legal challenges.

Today's Quote of the Day by Norman Vincent Peale reminds us that lasting success begins with two simple choices: believe in yourself and start with what you have. His timeless words encourage anyone feeling stuck, uncertain, or overwhelmed to stop waiting for perfect conditions. Sometimes, the smallest step taken with faith becomes the beginning of life's biggest transformation.

Asian families and fund managers are investing directly in sports assets. This trend fuels record dealmaking in the Asia-Pacific region. Wealthy investors are pursuing minority stakes in franchises and leagues. Growing audiences and rising media rights fees drive this investment. Sports are evolving into a strategic, institutional asset class.

Proverb of the day remains one of the most inspiring reminders that exploring the world is ultimately about understanding people. Landscapes may capture our attention, but human connections leave the deepest impressions. For readers, the Moorish proverb encourages more than planning the next vacation. It invites us to approach every journey with openness, curiosity, and respect. By embracing new cultures, listening to different stories, and recognizing the shared humanity that unites us all, we

Proverb of the day, A man who uses force is afraid of reasoning offers a timeless reminder that genuine strength lies not in overpowering others but in engaging them thoughtfully. Reasoned discussion requires confidence, patience, and humilityqualities that build trust far more effectively than fear ever can. For readers across the United States, this Kenyan proverb remains remarkably relevant in a rapidly changing world. As technology accelerates communication and public conversations become in

Activist Sonam Wangchuk will end his fast if campaigners face no prosecution. Government ministers met Wangchuk and will formally reply to his open letter. Opposition leaders condemned police action against demonstrators and demanded the education minister's resignation. The Supreme Court declined an urgent hearing on petitions alleging police brutality. Delhi Metro shut sixteen stations, disrupting commuter travel plans.

Quote of the day by Cate Blanchett highlights the importance of authenticity, self-assurance, healthy boundaries and freedom from external validation. The statement encourages people to stop seeking approval from everyone and instead focus on personal values and growth. The quote also explains how confidence, self-acceptance and independent thinking can help people make decisions, reduce fear of judgment and live with purpose in daily life.

Japanese mindset of the day: A Japanese saying advises against waiting for luck to change life's circumstances. Passively waiting for good fortune can hinder personal growth and missed opportunities. Taking action, even small steps, creates possibilities for learning and advancement. Effort and preparation are within our control, unlike unpredictable luck.

Bitcoin bottom alert: Bitcoin investors observe two distinct signals regarding its bear market. The historical four-year cycle suggests further price declines may occur soon. However, broader economic factors and Federal Reserve policy could now influence Bitcoin's trajectory. Some analysts believe Bitcoin may have already reached its market bottom.

Psychology says people who don't like to take a bath every day aren't always avoiding hygiene or responsibility. Human behavior is influenced by personal habits, culture, climate, skin health, routines, and psychological factors. Experts say bathing frequency varies from person to person. This article explains what psychology says, the reasons behind this habit, the theories that explain it, research findings, and the lessons people can learn without making quick judgments.

Quote of the day by Luise Rainer: Happiness often lies in moments we do not recognize while living them. We may only realize our happiness later when the moment has passed. Luise Rainer's quote suggests appreciating the present is important. She was a German-born actress who won two consecutive Academy Awards.

Consumer prices rose 2.6% in the 12 months to June, down from 2.8% in May and the lowest annual rate since March 2025, the Office for National Statistics said Wednesday. The reading was below economists' median forecast of 2.7% and marked the third straight month inflation undershot expectations.

Head constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi was killed in a suspected terrorist attack in Anantnag. The incident occurred in the busy Lal Chowk market area on Wednesday. Over two thousand suspects have been detained or questioned in connection with this attack. Preliminary investigation suggests a new group, United Liberation Council, claimed responsibility. Police are investigating whether the attacker was local or a foreigner.

India has achieved a 42% decline in undernourished people over two decades. The number of Indians unable to afford a healthy diet also fell significantly. This progress outpaces global trends in tackling hunger and malnutrition. However, the cost of a healthy diet has risen by over a third. These findings are based on a new report by the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization.

A new bill proposes safeguarding foreign-funded assets when NGO registrations lapse or cease. Revised rules link registration to specific purposes and approved states, excluding proselytisation. Assets will vest provisionally with a Designated Authority and return if registration is restored. If not restored, assets will permanently apply to public purposes after sale. The bill also clarifies automatic registration cessation and reduces penalties for violations.

Quote of the day by Katharine Hepburn reminds people that success depends on completing what they begin instead of only making a strong start. The quote explains the value of resilience, perseverance, determination, endurance, execution and commitment. Katharine Hepburn's life and career reflected this message through many challenges, career setbacks and achievements. The quote continues to inspire people working toward personal, educational and professional goals.

Mauritius cabinet ratified a tax protocol granting Indian officials more questioning powers. This allows direct challenges to offshore entities suspected of tax evasion. The principal purpose test will deny treaty benefits if tax avoidance is a primary aim. This change follows the Tiger Global verdict and strengthens genuine substance requirements. The protocol aims to ensure treaty benefits are for legitimate commercial purposes.

Japanese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Peoples rumors last seventy-five days. The saying reflects how gossip, public opinions, and social attention are often temporary rather than permanent. It suggests that even when people talk about someones actions, choices, or mistakes, such discussions usually fade with time. The proverb encourages individuals to stay focused on their values, avoid being controlled by outside judgment, and remember that lasting respect is built through chara

The BCCI has significantly raised its reserve prices for title and associate sponsorship rights. New bids are now invited for these valuable commercial properties. The title sponsorship cycle runs until March 2028, covering many international matches. This move aligns with other BCCI commercial deals due for renewal. The board seeks to maximize revenue from its key sporting assets.

The Trust received over five thousand applications for the chief executive officer position. A committee requested an additional month to complete the selection process. The Trust also decided to appoint a secretary for temple management purposes. A spokesperson will be appointed to manage communication with the media. A religious committee was re-constituted to ensure proper worship traditions.

Industrial Training Institutes have seen significant growth in numbers and capacity. Ethanol blending has not caused widespread vehicle engine failures, according to reports. The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana has improved job outcomes for trainees. Niti Aayog has spent over nineteen crore rupees on research projects. Thousands of kilometers of high-speed corridors have been completed and are under construction.

Actor Salman Khan voiced support for students protesting alleged examination paper leaks. He described the movement as peaceful and urged it remain apolitical. Khan expressed sadness over the protest's violent turn and solidarity with injured students. He praised students for demanding educational reforms and a better future. The actor encouraged focusing on student concerns, not political interests.

Phrase of the day: The idiom 'bite the bullet' means facing difficult situations bravely. This expression likely originated from battlefield surgeries without any anaesthetic. Patients would bite a bullet to distract themselves from intense pain. Rudyard Kipling's novel 'The Light that Failed' contains an early written example.

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch the updated Brezza facelift on July 24. The company has already commenced accepting bookings for the SUV ahead of its official unveiling. Reports suggest the refreshed Brezza will feature exterior updates and additional new features. A new 1-litre turbo-petrol engine option is also expected to be introduced. The updated Brezza will compete against several rivals in the compact SUV segment.

India voiced strong concern for seafarer safety in the Black Sea region. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Russian counterpart to discuss bilateral ties. New Delhi summoned the Russian Charge d'Affaires over the MV Golden Leo incident. Experts advise Indian seafarers to avoid ships in the Black Sea. This meeting preceded President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India.

The Quad nations backed ASEAN's Indo-Pacific vision through cooperation. They met in Manila to discuss maritime and economic security initiatives. This meeting aimed to secure ASEAN's support for regional stability efforts. India emphasized ASEAN's central role in its Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. Key defense and trade agreements were also finalized between India and the US.

Psychologists say the healthiest way to deal with anger is neither to lash out nor to suppress it completely. Instead, they recommend practicing assertive communication, expressing your thoughts and emotions honestly while respecting both your own needs and those of others.

Quote of the Day by Arnold Schwarzenegger: Arnold Schwarzeneggers quote, Bodybuilding is much like any other sport. To be successful, you must dedicate yourself 100% to your training, diet and mental approach, explores the importance of discipline, commitment, and a strong mindset in achieving success. The quote suggests that reaching any goal requires complete dedication, consistent effort, and proper preparation rather than relying only on talent or motivation. It highlights how physical train

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed readiness to manage sensitive issues with India. He met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of ASEAN meetings. Both nations aim to strengthen economic and cultural cooperation and maintain high-level exchanges. They will also enhance coordination within the BRICS framework for developing nations. China supports India's upcoming BRICS summit hosting in New Delhi.

Houthi militia warnings are causing tankers to change course in the Red Sea. Two vessels altered their destinations to the Suez Canal after the blockade declaration. European Union naval forces advised ships to avoid voyages through the Red Sea. This situation raises concerns for global energy supplies and international trade routes. Tanker activity is affected as ships await further instructions and reassess risks.