The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
France's primary energy provider has temporarily halted two nuclear reactors amid a severe heatwave to protect rivers from excessive warming. Power plants rely on river water for cooling, and discharging heated water can harm aquatic life. These shutdowns, including at Nogent-sur-Seine and Bugey, are crucial for meeting environmental regulations. Despite these measures, the national grid operator assures sufficient power generation capacity to meet demand.
A Turkish proverb, He whose mouth has been burnt by hot milk will always blow on yoghurt, illustrates how past negative experiences foster caution. This ingrained wariness, while protective, can lead to over-caution, preventing individuals from embracing new opportunities. The saying emphasizes the need to learn from mistakes without letting fear dictate future choices, advocating for a balance between alertness and confidence to foster personal growth.
Chinese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Without experiencing setbacks, one cannot gain knowledge. The saying reflects the idea that wisdom and understanding are often gained through challenges, mistakes, and difficult experiences rather than through success alone. It suggests that setbacks play an important role in personal growth by teaching valuable lessons that cannot always be learned from comfort or achievement.
As asteroid 1997 NC1 speeds past Earth this Saturday, many people are wondering whether our planet is in danger. The close flyby of this massive space rock has attracted global attention, but scientists say there is no reason to panic. Here's what makes this asteroid significant, why it is being closely monitored, whether it poses any impact risk, and how skywatchers can follow the event live.
India's Air Force has achieved a significant milestone with the Final Operational Clearance for its indigenous Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control system. This advanced surveillance technology, developed through collaboration between the IAF, DRDO, and industry, significantly boosts India's defence self-reliance and battle management capabilities. The system has already proven its reliability during recent military operations, underscoring its importance in evolving warfare scenarios.
Offers of rescue support, aid and condolences poured into Venezuela on Thursday after two powerful earthquakes left at least 164 dead and hundreds injured. - Global condolences - Japan offered sincere condolences to those affected in Venezuela.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged state governments to invest borrowed funds in long-term assets like schools and hospitals, not just revenue expenditure. She stressed that infrastructure development creates lasting economic benefits and jobs. Sitharaman also highlighted the Centre's policy to support medical colleges in every district and called for proposals from Tamil Nadu. She commented on development delays in Andhra Pradesh's Amaravati due to political shifts.
iPhone 18 Pro Max Price increase: Anticipation is high for the iPhone 18 Pro Max, with early predictions pointing towards a premium price tag, potentially exceeding the iPhone 17 Pro Max's starting point of $1,199. Analysts suggest Apple may justify any increase with significant upgrades in performance, AI capabilities, and camera technology. While official details remain scarce, the device is expected to launch in September, maintaining Apple's ultra-premium market positioning.
India's major infrastructure projects, each exceeding Rs 150 crore, have collectively seen cost overruns reaching approximately Rs 5.4 lakh crore. A government report reveals 1,987 projects are underway, with revised costs now at Rs 42.50 lakh crore against original estimates of Rs 37.09 lakh crore. While many projects are progressing well, this significant financial escalation warrants attention.
Why do some people refuse to change their thermostat settings? Psychology suggests the habit may be linked to routine, cognitive efficiency, environmental control and emotional comfort.
The growth in gross domestic product - the nation's output of goods and services - marked a rebound from a sluggish 0.5% in the last three months of 2025 when a 43-day federal government shutdown weighed on the economy. Thursday's numbers marked an upgrade from of Commerce's previous first-quarter estimate of 1.6% growth.
Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, has refuted US claims that Tehran will use its unfrozen funds to purchase American agricultural goods. Qalibaf dismissed the assertion on X, stating the US only exports GMO soybeans, broken promises and trash talks.
A stress test by Crisil Ratings covering 34 sectors that account for 65% of its rated corporate debt suggests that India Inc remains broadly resilient despite a prolonged West Asia conflict, thanks to stronger balance sheets, steady domestic demand and government-led capital expenditure.
World's loneliest tree making a comeback: A beacon of hope shines for 'Dendroseris neriifolia', a rare tree daisy reduced to a single wild specimen on Robinson Crusoe Island. Seeds from this lone survivor have successfully germinated at Kew's Millennium Seed Bank, offering a crucial lifeline.
A Bengaluru-born musician Benny Prasad back in the spotlight after he showed 16 passports packed with stamps and visas from his journey across 245 countries, including Antarctica. The clip has renewed interest in his record-setting travels, music career and difficult early life.
A Florida mother, Precious Bland, accused of drowning her infant daughter during a religious ritual has been found not guilty by reason of insanity. The jury accepted her defense that severe, COVID-19-induced delusions, including fears of an apocalypse, rendered her unable to understand her actions. She will now receive psychiatric treatment instead of a prison sentence, sparking debate on mental illness and criminal responsibility.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set for a State visit to Seychelles from June 27-29, attending the nation's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as Guest of Honour. He will hold discussions with President Patrick Herminie to bolster bilateral ties across all sectors and address regional matters. India's participation in the celebrations, including a naval contingent, underscores the deep-rooted friendship and shared vision for the Indian Ocean region.
Psychology teaches us that social behaviors often reflect deeper emotional drives. Giving spoilers is rarely just about revealing part of a story. More often, it stems from a strong sense of excitement, a desire to share an experience that felt meaningful, or an urge to connect with others over a common interest.
Farmers in Uttar Pradesh will benefit from an extended wheat, gram, and lentil procurement period until July 8. Additionally, over 6.18 lakh rural homes have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana's new phase. These key decisions were announced by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan during a review with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, emphasizing support for farmers and rural housing development.
The Enforcement Directorate has launched a money laundering investigation into a 2017 Tamil Nadu government teacher recruitment scam. Searches were conducted after allegations of OMR sheet tampering, where scanned marks were digitally altered. The ED claims a network of agents and middlemen collected substantial cash from candidates, which was then laundered through shell firms and converted into assets. Significant cash and frozen accounts are part of the ongoing probe.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has reopened the popular Gulmarg Cable Car project after a month-long closure due to a technical snag. Services resumed following necessary repairs and certification by the original manufacturer, ensuring all safety protocols were met. Despite the closure, tourist arrivals remained strong, and the resumption is expected to boost numbers further. Those involved in rescuing stranded tourists were also recognized and rewarded.
Dinesh Trivedi, India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, has been granted a status equivalent to a Union Cabinet minister. This elevation underscores New Delhi's strategic focus on its relationship with Dhaka. A veteran politician and former Union minister, Trivedi's appointment in 2026 marked a shift from traditional diplomatic postings, leveraging his extensive political experience and understanding of regional dynamics.
A French mother and her five children have been rescued in Pakistan after allegedly being held in isolation for nearly 12 years. Authorities claim the family was effectively imprisoned since 2014, with children denied education and social contact. The ordeal came to light when one son escaped, leading to a police raid and the husband's arrest. The children's well-being and future education are now a priority.
Proverb of the Day: An Italian proverb, 'Better to be poor and honest than rich and dishonest,' underscores integrity's paramount value over wealth. While riches may offer fleeting comfort, honesty cultivates lasting peace, respect, and self-worth. This timeless wisdom challenges societal metrics of success, emphasizing character as true richness. In today's competitive landscape, maintaining ethical principles builds stronger relationships and enduring credibility, proving its enduring relevanc
Hair fall and thinning are common concerns in India, but simple dietary changes can help. Seeds like flax, pumpkin, sesame, and chia are rich in nutrients that support stronger roots, reduce breakage, and improve overall hair health. Adding these 7 seeds to your daily diet can naturally boost hair growth.
Quote of the Day: Charles Darwin's timeless insight reminds us that intelligence isn't measured by what we know but by how well we adapt when life changes. His words challenge conventional thinking, revealing that resilience, curiosity, and the ability to evolve are often the greatest strengths. This powerful lesson continues to inspire smarter decisions in everyday life.
Change is constant, and our reaction defines our success. The proverb When the wind of change blows, some people build walls, others build windmills highlights this choice. While some resist, others adapt and innovate, turning challenges into opportunities. In today's rapidly evolving world, embracing change and developing adaptability are crucial for thriving, not just surviving. This wisdom offers a powerful perspective on navigating life's transformations.
Morgan Stanley initially backed British private credit firm Market Financial Solutions (MFS) before its collapse under $2.4 billion in debt. Documents reveal the US investment bank bought 50 million in loan notes from a company controlled by MFS founder Paresh Raja. This early support lent credibility to MFS, which later attracted major banks like HSBC, Barclays, and Wells Fargo, before facing regulatory investigations and significant creditor losses.
A man in Uttar Pradesh's Sonbhadra district suffered injuries after a peculiar fall from a first-floor balcony while trying to grab an ice cream from a street vendor. A viral video captured the moment he lost his balance and tumbled to the ground. Police have confirmed the man is receiving medical attention and assured the public that the situation is under control and poses no law and order concerns.
A recent government clarification in India, stating passports aren't conclusive proof of citizenship, has ignited interest in the document's history. Originating over 2,500 years ago in ancient Persia as a safe passage letter, passports evolved through medieval Europe and were standardized after World War I. Today's e-passports, with biometric data, represent a millennia-long journey from simple permits to vital identity symbols.
Bangladesh and China have agreed to boost cooperation on managing the Teesta and other rivers. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, currently in Beijing, sought Chinese technical assistance for the Teesta project and broader water resource management initiatives. China pledged full support, offering training and sharing its expertise. This development comes as India also expressed interest in assisting with Teesta basin conservation, highlighting the growing regional focus on transboundary river manag
Amazon is set to invest a record $48 billion in India between 2026 and 2030, with over $21 billion earmarked for AI and cloud infrastructure. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the significant investment, highlighting its potential to create new opportunities for Indian youth and underscoring India's growing global investment appeal.
India Women vs Bangladesh Women Live Streaming: India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, faces Bangladesh in a crucial Women's T20 World Cup Group A match at Emirates Old Trafford on Thursday. Historically dominant, India has won 18 out of 19 T20Is against Bangladesh. The pitch is expected to favor batters, with warm and humid conditions predicted for the 7:00 PM IST encounter. Fans can catch the action on Star Sports and JioHotstar.
Twelve bonded labourers, including minors, were rescued from a factory in Muzaffarnagar after enduring months of captivity and torture. Lured with job promises, they faced inhumane conditions, including being fed cattle feed, sleeping only a few hours, and enduring beatings. Visible injuries and accounts of intimidation highlight the harrowing ordeal, with one worker allegedly dying from torture. Authorities are now working on rehabilitation and reuniting the survivors with their families.
RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka's viral social media post comparing cricketer Rishabh Pant's IPL earnings drop to a CEO's salary sparked debate. Goenka highlighted how player valuations fluctuate drastically via auctions, unlike stable corporate pay. Internet reactions varied, with some questioning Pant's worth and others arguing corporate compensation also adjusts based on performance, challenging the perceived difference in stability.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari declared a zero-tolerance policy on corruption following a warehouse roof collapse in Taratala that claimed nine lives. He accused the previous government and former Mayor Firhad Hakim of sanctioning faulty building plans, citing alleged involvement of an aide named 'Kali' and directing funds to Camac Street. Compensation has been announced for victims, and engineers involved are named.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's new book reveals charming diplomatic encounters during her 2023 India visit, where welcome posters humorously prompted a joke about winning a million votes. Meloni emphasizes that successful diplomacy hinges on personal connections, sharing anecdotes like shared cigarettes with leaders and gifts like a giant Hello Kitty doll, illustrating how small moments forge strong international relationships.
Pakistan's foreign office has indicated that crucial talks between the United States and Iran are set to resume next week, likely on Tuesday. This follows a recent memorandum of understanding and technical-level discussions in Switzerland, where Pakistan and Qatar acted as mediators. The ongoing dialogue, aimed at restoring peace in West Asia, is viewed as a positive step towards a potential peace deal within 60 days.
West Bengal's FY27 budget signals a strong pivot towards investment-led growth, emphasizing industrialization and long-term economic transformation. Despite this strategic shift, the state faces persistent fiscal challenges, including high debt and lower per capita income compared to the national average. The report highlights potential in non-tax revenue and the need for improved administrative efficiency, alongside opportunities in CBM and multimodal corridors.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured Gulf Arab allies that any deal with Iran would prioritize their security interests. Concluding a Middle East tour, Rubio aimed to assuage concerns over a preliminary accord, emphasizing Washington's commitment to regional stability. Despite assurances, conflicting accounts on deal terms regarding inspections and financial incentives have fueled skepticism among key U.S. partners.
UN experts are urging Venezuela to immediately restore access to social media and news outlets following devastating twin earthquakes. The powerful tremors, which killed at least 32 people and damaged infrastructure, have created a critical need for information. Authorities are being pressed to prioritize human rights in the disaster response, with blocked internet access deemed a life-or-death issue amid ongoing media repression.
International concern is mounting over China's assertive maritime actions near Taiwan. The US, Britain, France, and Germany have voiced alarm, while Taiwan expresses gratitude for their support. Beijing claims these patrols are legitimate exercises, but Taipei and its allies view them as maritime expansionism threatening regional stability and international law. Taiwan vows to defend its waters with international backing.
Spain is grappling with a severe heatwave, with preliminary estimates suggesting over 200 deaths between Sunday and Wednesday. This follows a record-breaking hot summer last year, which saw a significant surge in heat-related fatalities. Temperatures this week reached unprecedented June highs, including ropical nights impacting public health and triggering high alerts in normally cooler regions.

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