The Economic Times

The corporate affairs ministry is actively seeking to boost participation in the PM Internship Scheme. New measures include pilot projects with SEZs, global capability centres, and SMEs, alongside allowing state governments to nominate companies. The government is also expanding eligible sectors and considering firms without CSR obligations to address lower-than-expected engagement and high dropout rates observed in earlier phases.

Government revamps EPFO rules, mandating PF claim settlements within three days and imposing a 12% penal interest on officials for delays. Employees can now withdraw 75% of their PF balance immediately upon job loss. Withdrawal categories are simplified to three: illness, education, and marriage, with reduced service requirements.

The Reserve Bank of India has strongly advised a prohibition strategy for crypto assets, recommending that banks and financial institutions be completely shielded from them. Officials argued that allowing exposure could legitimize speculative products with no economic benefit and pose financial stability risks. The RBI also questioned India's top crypto adopter ranking and warned stablecoins could threaten monetary sovereignty.

India and the EU are set to ink their free trade agreement by December 31, with legal scrubbing expected to conclude in 10-12 days, marking the EU's fastest-ever approved trade pact. Meanwhile, India continues to press the US for a enable mechanism to ensure a competitive edge in a proposed interim trade deal, emphasizing preferential market access as crucial for finalisation.

Belgium staged a dramatic comeback against Senegal, overturning a 2-0 deficit to secure a crucial victory. Despite a heated on-field argument between key players Youri Tielemans and Leandro Trossard, the duo later combined for the equalizer, with Romelu Lukaku adding another. Tielemans ultimately sealed the win with a penalty, showcasing the team's newfound fight and talent.

Pulse prices are set to remain steady until December, defying concerns over delayed sowing and rainfall. Ample government reserves, coupled with strong output from key exporting nations like Africa and Myanmar, are ensuring sufficient supply. Weak consumer demand since March has also contributed to stable pricing, offering relief to the market.

Chinese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of He who returns from a journey is not the same as he who left. The saying reflects how every journey, whether physical, emotional, or personal, transforms a person's perspective, character, and understanding of life. It suggests that experiences gained through travel, challenges, relationships, and learning leave lasting impressions that shape who we become. Rather than simply marking the passage of time, the proverb emphasizes that growth come

Friedrich Nietzsche quote today: German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche highlighted that connections with family, friends, passions, and values, rather than mere achievements, enrich existence and provide resilience. This profound insight suggests that the true measure of a life's richness lies in our ability to care and connect.

India and Japan have officially strengthened their strategic partnership, emphasizing initiatives aimed at economic security and collaborative military technology development. Important agreements focus on advancements in artificial intelligence and enhancing energy supply chains, particularly in semiconductors and critical minerals. Prime Minister Modi highlighted technology as fundamental, introducing a joint naval radio antenna project and designating 2027 as the India-Japan Year of Shared Ho

Football fever grips India as the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 heats up on July 3 with three thrilling knockout encounters. Argentina faces Cape Verde at 3:30 AM, followed by Colombia vs. Ghana at 7:00 AM, and Australia taking on Egypt at 11:30 PM. All matches are crucial for a spot in the Round of 16. Catch the action live on Unite8 Sports and stream on ZEE5.

Spain vs Austria FIFA World Cup 2026 Predicted Lineup, Key Players and Match Preview: Spain faces Austria in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 on July 3rd, with a spot in the last 16 on the line. Unbeaten Spain, who topped Group H, clash with Austria, the Group J runners-up, at the Los Angeles Stadium. Fans can catch the action live on Zee5. Key players like Lamine Yamal and Marko Arnautovic are expected to shine in this crucial encounter.

Brent futures slipped to near $70 a barrel in London, hitting their lowest since the week before the Iran war began on Feb 28. Saudi Arabia managed to load crude at almost 90% of previous levels after restarting shipments late last week from its giant Ras Tanura terminal, according to vessel-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg. US benchmark West Texas Intermediate dipped to near $67 a barrel.

Psychology says people who love 'cute' videos of pets aren't simply avoiding work or spending time without purpose. Research shows that watching pet videos can improve mood, reduce stress, increase attention, and help people recover from mental fatigue. Psychology explains that people respond to caring signals, emotional comfort, and positive feelings. These effects may support mental well-being, social bonding, and daily productivity when viewed in balance.

Personal guarantors of struggling companies may lose their interim moratorium protection, as the insolvency regulator proposes changes to prevent delays in recovery. Creditors can now pursue or continue recovery actions. Additionally, the regulator aims to enhance transparency and accountability in appointing registered valuers for stressed firms, requiring creditor approval and mandating confidential submission of valuation reports until resolution plans are finalized.

Quote of the Day by Eric Clapton: Eric Claptons quote, An obsession is where something will not leave your mind explores the nature of intense, persistent thoughts that continuously occupy a persons attention. The quote suggests that obsession is not just a passing idea, but a powerful mental state where emotions, desires, or ideas linger and repeatedly return, often shaping focus, behavior, and inner experience.

The Enforcement Directorate has seized over Rs 58 crore in assets belonging to Ritu Singal, wife of former Bhushan Steel promoter Neeraj Singal. This action is part of a money laundering probe into alleged fund diversion from Bhushan Steel, causing a massive loss to financial institutions. The agency previously attached Rs 428 crore and filed chargesheets in the case.

Cockroaches harbor ancient bacterial DNA, a new study reveals. Researchers discovered thousands of tiny DNA fragments from Blattabacterium cuenoti, a long-term microbial partner, integrated into cockroach genomes. This finding highlights how enduring animal-microbe partnerships can leave lasting genetic imprints, challenging previous assumptions about animal DNA.

India is actively pursuing its bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games in Ahmedabad, engaging with the IOC through various channels under a revamped selection process. The nation is currently in the Continuous Dialogue stage, with a Strategic Dialogue phase set for 2027.

Psychology says people who raise numerous children aren't always motivated by the same reasons. Psychology explains that family size is influenced by culture, personal values, economics, relationships, biology, and social expectations. Researchers say there is no single personality type linked to raising many children. Different psychological theories help explain why families choose to have more children and what this behavior can teach about human decision-making.

Most children don't naturally love vegetables, but new nutrition research suggests that healthy eating habits can be built with simple daily routines. Child nutrition experts say repeated exposure, family mealtimes and positive food experiences matter more than forcing kids to eat. As childhood obesity and poor diet remain concerns across the US, these science-backed vegetable habits give parents practical ways to raise healthier eaters and support lifelong nutrition, growth, learning and overal

French Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of For the young hunter, an old dog is needed. The saying reflects how success in learning or any new journey is often shaped by experience rather than effort alone. It suggests that guidance from someone experienced is essential for those who are still learning, as wisdom and familiarity with situations can prevent mistakes and improve outcomes. The proverb emphasizes how knowledge and experience are valuable assets that grow over time, and how b

New rules mandate strict monitoring of state spending on the rural employment scheme, VB-G RAM-G, exceeding central allocations. The scheme, replacing MGNREGA, guarantees 125 days of work and requires direct bank payments for wages. States will now share 40% of wage costs, a significant shift from the previous Centre-funded model.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met with Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to boost the state's industrial and infrastructure development. Discussions centered on integrating Assam into India's semiconductor ecosystem and enhancing railway connectivity. Key projects like the Lanka-Umrangso railway line and the India-Bhutan railway were highlighted, aiming to foster economic growth and regional ties. These initiatives are poised to significantly transform Assam's industrial landscape.

West Bengal has launched 24/7 Cybercrime Help Desks in 500 police stations and women's safety initiatives, including a specialized Durga Suraksha Squad. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari highlighted cybercrime's pandemic-like spread, particularly affecting senior citizens. The state aims to expedite reporting and recovery of defrauded money through these help desks, emphasizing the critical Golden Hour for swift action and coordination with the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

Tesla stock fell sharply in midday trading Thursday, down more than 7 per cent, in an odd development.

A former Goldman Sachs employee, Kriti Rohilla, shared her eye-opening salary negotiation experience on LinkedIn. She learned that corporate pay structures often hinge on initial benchmarks and that leverage, particularly an external job offer, is crucial for significant salary increases. Rohilla's story highlights the systemic nature of pay discussions and the importance of demonstrating market value to secure fair compensation.

Quote of the Day by Samuel L. Jackson: Samuel L. Jacksons quote, Those who say that money can't buy happiness, never had any, explores the practical relationship between money, financial security, and happiness. The quote suggests that while wealth alone cannot guarantee lasting joy or fulfillment, having enough money can reduce stress, provide stability, and create opportunities that improve a person's quality of life.

Quote of the day by John D Rockefeller reminds people that money alone cannot define success or happiness. The famous quote explains that true wealth comes from purpose, relationships, health, kindness, and personal growth. It also warns against making financial gain the only goal in life. The message remains relevant today because many people continue to balance careers, family, ambitions, and personal well-being while searching for a meaningful life.

Proverb of the day highlights an African proverb that teaches the value of protecting your identity while adapting to changing situations. It explains that people can change their actions, habits or appearance to meet different circumstances, but their core values and character remain the foundation of who they are. The proverb also explores authenticity, adaptability, life lessons, relevance today, English equivalents and practical ways to apply its message in daily life.

Mumbai's Bombay High Court has greenlit the cluster redevelopment of major MHADA layouts in Bandra Reclamation and Adarsh Nagar, Worli. The court dismissed petitions challenging the government's decision, deeming cluster redevelopment a feasible and planned approach for the city's growth. This policy aims for integrated development, ensuring better infrastructure and amenities across these large, older housing areas.

The Competition Commission of India has dismissed allegations of systemic manipulation in public furniture procurement favouring Godrej Enterprises. Complainants claimed tender specifications mirrored Godrej's proprietary designs, stifling competition. However, the CCI found no evidence of collusion or anti-competitive behaviour, noting the existence of multiple furniture market players and that procurement entities are responsible for setting specifications.

Pakistan has strongly refuted India's alleged attempts to control rivers, particularly the Indus basin, by treating water as a strategic asset. Islamabad asserts that India's decision to place the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance is an illegal move, using terrorism as a baseless pretext. Pakistan maintains that water should not be a tool for coercion and any denial of its rightful share violates international obligations.

Quote of the Day by Elizabeth Taylor: Elizabeth Taylors quote, I'm a survivor - a living example of what people can go through and survive, explores the power of resilience, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The quote suggests that life's hardships, no matter how painful or overwhelming, do not have to define a person's future. Instead, every challenge overcome becomes a testament to inner strength, hope, and the remarkable ability of the human spirit to endure, heal, and grow

Proverb of the day: The Chinese saying, A good neighbor is a found treasure, reminds people that true wealth is not measured only by money. It also comes from trusted relationships with the people living nearby. The proverb teaches the value of mutual support, proactive connection, shared responsibility, peace of mind, and strong communities that help people during both daily life and emergencies.

In the first Defence Acquisition Council meeting to be held with new Chief of Defence Staff, Army and Navy Chiefs in attendance, the Defence Ministry is expected to clear mega proposals including the acquisition of the HAMMER air to ground precision guided munitions for the Rafales and LCA Tejas aircraft, the Verba very short-range air defence systems, fixed-wing pseudo-satellites and Naval shipborne aerial systems.

Your dog doesn't actually smell different after a bath or a rainy walk, the smell was there all along. Water just switches it on. The odor comes not from the dog itself, but from the microorganisms, yeast and bacteria, that live in its fur. These microbes are a normal, healthy part of every dog's skin ecosystem, and under dry conditions they're mostly undetectable.

A timeless French proverb, 'He who wants to travel far spares his mount,' offers crucial wisdom for modern life. It emphasizes that enduring success hinges on patience, balance, and self-care, not just speed. By preserving our physical, mental, and emotional resources, we ensure we can sustain our efforts and reach our long-term goals without succumbing to burnout. This ancient insight remains profoundly relevant today.

New rules under the Viksit Bharat- Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act have been notified, guiding the transition from MGNREGS. These rules detail wage and unemployment allowance payments exclusively via Direct Benefit Transfer, and outline procedures for expenditures exceeding central allocations. Ongoing MGNREGS works and job cards will continue during this shift, ensuring a smooth transition to the new rural employment framework.

Governments are exploring ownership stakes in leading AI firms like OpenAI and Sarvam AI, signaling a shift in viewing artificial intelligence as a strategic national asset. This move goes beyond traditional regulation, aiming for a say in decision-making and ensuring public benefit from AI's immense potential. Such proposals suggest a new era of state-tech partnerships shaping future economic and security landscapes.