The Economic Times

In 1905, an engineering blunder redirected the Colorado River into a desert basin, unintentionally giving rise to California's Salton Sea. Initially, this man-made lake flourished as a vibrant resort destination, attracting countless visitors. However, over time, rising salinity and dwindling water levels have altered its appeal. Despite these challenges, the Salton Sea continues to serve as a crucial habitat for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway.

India will chair the BRICS Summit, focusing on development and innovation. The summit will address resilient supply chains and promote trade in national currencies. Global institutional reforms and BRICS Bank projects will also be discussed. Unilateral sanctions against member countries are expected to receive attention. Leaders from eleven BRICS and ten partner countries will attend the event.

Bodies of four Naga civilians killed in Manipur's Kangpokpi district were retrieved on Friday. Armed assailants attacked a vehicle on Thursday, killing four and injuring two others. Security forces faced disruptions but later reached the site to retrieve the bodies. Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh directed immediate action against those responsible for the attack. The United Naga Council accused two militant outfits of involvement in the ambush.

The latest liquid concrete flow of water from the Himalayas has far too many precedents in India and Nepal; what happens on the Chinese side during such events is hard to gauge but it must be just as bad. It seems we are wilfully ignoring Nature's repeated signals to slow down, accept the realities of our fragile eco-systems and manage expectations accordingly. 'Development' cannot exclude those who live in remote areas but nor should it endanger them.

Hazardous substances near Shattuck Chemical Company prompted a settlement for restoration projects. Funds supported habitat improvements along Colorado's South Platte River and Eastern Plains. Restoration projects enhanced wetland and riparian areas for migratory birds. Denver's Overland Pond Park also saw habitat and riverbank improvements.

Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee demanded the immediate release of thirteen arrested Trinamool workers. The arrests followed a ruckus during the dismantling of an alleged illegal signboard. She questioned the police's actions and the use of a gas cutter at the site. Banerjee asserted that the Trinamool Congress would soon return to power. She also criticized the BJP government and the state police for their actions.

The South Fork Palouse River restoration began with a problem Idaho could not ignore. In 2002, the river was listed as bacteria-impaired, with livestock grazing among the identified sources. Fourteen years later, its water showed a different picture. Restoration work helped reduce E. coli levels enough for Idaho to remove that impairment in 2016. The story shows how practical conservation can slowly change a troubled river.

During World War I, military dogs displayed unwavering bravery in the trenches. Tasked with lifesaving duties, they rescued injured soldiers and delivered crucial messages across perilous grounds. Their acute senses proved invaluable in detecting hidden threats and controlling vermin in dire environments. Beyond their practical roles, these canines offered companionship to troops, uplifting spirits amidst turmoil.

The removal of the Shapp Pond Dam in Dutchess County, New York, helped restore aquatic connectivity and improve stream habitat along the East Branch of Wappinger Creek. The 12-foot-high dam had blocked migratory fish, altered natural flow and sediment patterns, and created conditions favorable to non-native and invasive species.

King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the Tooro Kingdom monarch, has died at age 34. He became the world's youngest reigning monarch after his coronation at just three years old. His death was announced by Tooro's prime minister late Thursday evening. News of his passing has triggered widespread grief across Uganda and its traditional kingdoms. Officials confirmed an heir exists, ensuring the continuity of the royal line.

In August, U.S. consumer sentiment took a hit, largely due to ongoing inflation concerns and the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The war launched by the U.S. and Israel against Iran has caused a surge in global energy prices. This downturn in sentiment is striking across all political affiliations, with Republicans feeling the impact most significantly.

A federal judge again rejected Donald Trump's attempt to dismiss his conviction. He cited presidential immunity grounds for moving the state case to federal court. This marks the third time Judge Alvin Hellerstein blocked Trump's federal court intervention. The conviction made Trump the first former and current US president convicted of a crime.

Jurors continue deliberations in the Lindsay Clancy murder trial, weighing her mental state. The defense argues postpartum psychosis while prosecutors claim deliberate actions occurred. Clancy faces charges for killing her three young children in their Duxbury home. The jury can decide between murder, manslaughter, or lack of criminal responsibility. This decision will determine Clancy's legal accountability for the children's deaths.

Does the devastating flooding unleashed by the collapse of a section of glacier in the Nepalese Himalayas signal a new kind of risk in a world warmed by climate change? Here's what scientists told AFP. On Friday, Nepal issued an alert about the risks posed by a large body of water formed in China's Tibet region, following the collapse of a glacier section two days ago.

Nepal's flash flood death toll has significantly increased, with many people still missing. India has offered National Disaster Response Force teams to aid Nepal's search and rescue efforts. Hundreds of Indian nationals remain unaccounted for, with some stranded on the Chinese side. India is also preparing additional humanitarian aid, including medical support and engineering teams. Two aircraft carrying relief materials have already been dispatched to Nepal.

Woods quote,The greatest thing about tomorrow is, I will be better than I am today,reflects his philosophy of constantly improving not just as a golfer, but as a person, father, husband and friend. The story explores the meaning behind the quote and why the message resonates given Woods remarkable career and personal setbacks.

Kent Park Lake in Johnson County, Iowa, experienced water-quality problems linked to nutrient and sediment delivery, resulting in its placement on Iowas impaired waters list. Restoration efforts addressed both watershed and in-lake sources through sediment basins, a northern inlet dike, land acquisition, dredging, shoreline stabilization, native plantings, fish habitat, and prairie restoration.

Quote of the day by Phil Collins: Phil Collins views his career as a profession and not stardom. He feels fortunate to make ends meet through his chosen work. This perspective helps him remain grounded despite his achievements. Collins is an English musician known for Genesis and a solo career. His legacy includes multiple awards and Hall of Fame inductions.

Washington DC bioretention systems are quietly changing what happens when heavy rain hits city streets. Two systems on Hamlin Street NE can retain about 2,627 cubic feet of stormwater per storm. That equals nearly 20,000 gallons of water kept from rushing toward local waterways. The project shows how small urban spaces can handle runoff more effectively. It also offers a practical model for greener stormwater management.

Quote of the day by Johnny Cash: Johnny Cash's quote advises building on failure and using it as a stepping stone. He suggested closing the door on the past and not dwelling on mistakes. The singer and songwriter was born in 1932 and became known as the Man in Black. Cash overcame addiction and revived his career with successful albums and awards.

During World War I, a clandestine German telegram sparked a controversial proposal for Mexico to launch an attack on the United States. British intelligence successfully intercepted and decoded this crucial message, revealing offers to regain lost territories. The confirmation of the telegram's authenticity by Germany swayed public opinion in America dramatically, alongside escalating submarine warfare, ultimately leading the United States to declare war against Germany in April 1917.

Global companies once relied on China for consistent growth and expansion. Economic challenges and strong local competitors now impact foreign brands significantly. Brands like Nike and Starbucks are losing market share to domestic rivals. However, some companies succeed by adapting to local tastes and preferences. Success in China now depends on understanding the market rather than global prestige.

Quote of the Day by Lana Del Rey: Lana Del Reys quote, When youre an introvert like me and youve been lonely for a while, and then you find someone who understands you, you become really attached to them. Its a real release, explores the importance of emotional understanding, connection, vulnerability, and companionship. The quote suggests that finding someone who genuinely understands you can provide comfort and relief after experiencing loneliness, while also creating a strong emotional attach

NASA scientists have long explored recycling resources for extended space travel. Plants and microorganisms could help regenerate vital supplies for astronauts. Reliable mechanical and biological systems are crucial for mission success. Recycling reduces the immense cost of launching supplies from Earth. This technology is fundamental for future lunar and Martian exploration.

Keuka Lake DDT cleanup shows how a pesticide banned decades ago kept affecting fish through contaminated soil and runoff. The problem began long before todays conservation efforts. DDT settled into farmland and could travel with eroding soil toward the lake. New York farmers later adopted erosion controls, cover crops and better pesticide practices. Fish testing eventually showed much lower DDT levels. That helped restore safer fish consumption at Keuka Lake.

Quote of the Day by Stevie Wonder: Stevie Wonders quote, Sometimes I wish I could drive a car, but I'm gonna drive a car one day, so I don't worry about that, explores the importance of optimism, patience, determination, and believing in future possibilities. The quote suggests that temporary limitations should not prevent people from holding onto their dreams or becoming discouraged by what they cannot do at the present moment. Instead, Wonders words encourage people to remain hopeful, focus on

The metal mesh found on microwave doors serves an essential safety role. The small perforations allow for visibility while effectively blocking harmful radiation. This design ingeniously takes into account the differences in wavelengths between microwaves and visible light. Additionally, this mesh keeps microwave energy contained, ensuring efficient cooking, much like the heat-insulating patterns seen in conventional oven doors.

Georgia's Okefenokee Swamp received UNESCO World Heritage status. This recognition highlights its rich biodiversity and vital role as a carbon sink. The vast wetland supports numerous plant and animal species, including many threatened ones. Its designation aims to bolster conservation efforts for this important natural landscape.

Quote of the day by Justin Bieber is a reminder that ambition becomes more meaningful when it is connected to positive influence. You can do anything if you just put your mind to it is not simply an invitation to dream; it is a call to believe, act, persevere, and inspire. The journey toward a goal may be difficult, and success may take longer than expected, but every determined effort can build confidence and experience. When people combine self-belief with discipline and use their influence to

Quote of the Day by Burt Lancaster: Burt Lancasters quote, I judge a restaurant by the bread and by the coffee, explores the importance of quality, simplicity, and attention to detail when experiencing food and hospitality. The quote suggests that a restaurants true standard can often be recognized through its simplest offerings rather than only its expensive or elaborate dishes. Good bread and well-prepared coffee can reveal the care, consistency, and quality that go into the overall dining exp

India and China will implement an eight-point consensus from recent Special Representatives talks. Both nations will now determine how to operationalize the agreed agenda points. Discussions focused on maintaining peace and creating conditions for stable bilateral relations. Expert groups will advance discussions on boundary delimitation and border management. Future meetings and hotline channels were also agreed upon for better communication.

Bihar faces significant flood threats as river water levels continue to rise. Heavy rainfall and flash floods in Nepal have caused major rivers to swell. Authorities have opened barrage gates and are monitoring river embankments closely. People are being moved from low-lying areas to safer locations. Disaster response teams are on standby for any emergency situations.

A powerful storm swept through New York's Capital Region on Thursday. Downed trees and scattered debris caused significant disruptions in several communities. The Washington County Fair closed early for safety due to the severe weather. Power outages created traffic problems and darkened intersections in Wilton. Rensselaer County also continued recovering from earlier storm damage.

Retail sugar prices are easing as ex-mill rates decline significantly. The government will now allocate sugar fortnightly to mills from September. This new system aims to prevent artificial scarcity and ensure smooth supply. Mills must dispatch sold sugar within seven days of sale.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has achieved unparalleled impact and transformative outcomes. This initiative has significantly reshaped India's financial landscape and global financial inclusion efforts. Millions of unbanked adults now have access to basic banking services and digital transaction tools. Women's participation in the financial system has increased substantially through these accounts. Rural and semi-urban areas are now better served by this extensive banking network.

Norway's new King Haakon VIII ascended the throne after his father's death. He once sought distance from royal life and its constant public attention. Haakon found freedom and a sense of self while living in California. His marriage to Mette-Marit brought him closer to public engagement. The new king now faces family scrutiny and institutional challenges.

Norway mourns the passing of King Harald V at age 89, a monarch who reshaped royal traditions over his remarkable 30-year reign. His commitment to modernizing the monarchy is reflected in his choice to wed commoner Queen Sonja, illustrating a shift towards greater inclusivity. As Crown Prince Haakon ascends the throne as King Haakon VIII, King Harald's profound legacy of love and duty will continue to resonate.

Thousands will march in Washington on Friday to defend voting rights. This event, March on Washington 2026, aims to protect democracy's foundation. Organizers cite the Supreme Court's weakening of the Voting Rights Act as a concern. Leaders emphasize that the fight for equality remains unfinished for all generations. The march seeks to confront the systemic rollback of civil rights protections.

Himalayan glaciers are melting at an accelerating pace, doubling ice loss rates since 2000. These glaciers provide water for nearly two billion people downstream. Small glaciers are shrinking faster, posing immediate water shortage risks. Glacier area loss is highest in eastern Hengduan Shan mountains. Expanded monitoring and adaptation investment are urgently needed for this region.

Norway's King Harald V, Europe's oldest monarch, has died at the age of 89. He reigned for over three decades, modernizing the royal house and serving his nation. The king famously married his school sweetheart, defying noble expectations and winning public approval. Harald V led Norway through an oil-driven economic boom and championed diversity. His son, Haakon VIII, automatically ascended to the throne following his father's passing.

Nine South Koreans remain missing after a catastrophic flash flood in Nepal. Families are urging authorities to secure helicopter access for a critical search operation. A South Korean rapid response team awaits flight clearance to reach the affected disaster area. Nepalese authorities stated they do not require foreign assistance for ongoing rescue efforts. The disaster struck a major hydropower project on Wednesday, impacting workers.

An explosion in Pakistan's Makeen bazaar killed one person and injured nine others. The blast occurred Friday in the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province's South Waziristan district. An improvised explosive device attached to a motorcycle detonated in the busy marketplace. The injured were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Authorities have cordoned off the area and initiated a search operation.

Researchers developed innovative cement tiles inspired by elephant skin for passive cooling. These tiles feature engineered cracks that absorb and slowly evaporate water to reduce heat. This technology offers a sustainable alternative to energy-intensive air conditioning systems. The material can be sprayed onto surfaces, providing a potential infrastructure solution for urban areas. Further development is needed to address durability, water usage, and cost concerns.