The Economic Times

Ladakh will withdraw cases against 25 individuals involved in a protest incident. Preparations for upcoming Panchayat elections in Ladakh are now commencing. A meeting with the Ministry of Home Affairs is scheduled for early September. Land use changes and Nautor land tenancy rights will be regularized soon. Tourism sector will now receive electricity at industrial tariffs.

The BJP will meet tomorrow to finalize plans for Modi@25 celebrations. These nationwide events will commemorate Prime Minister Modi's 25 years in public service. The campaign, Seva Sankalp Mahotsav, begins September 7 and lasts fifteen days. It will feature outreach programs and digital exhibitions highlighting his public life. The celebrations focus on service, good governance, development, and public welfare.

First selfie ever: Robert Cornelius achieved a milestone in 1839 as he created the first-ever photographic self-portrait. This endeavor required him to position himself carefully while employing early photographic equipment, enduring a lengthy exposure time. The daguerreotype process he used was both technically challenging and involved hazardous materials.

A Raceview man faces multiple charges including six counts of rape. Police allege he attacked a woman during an early morning walk. He was later arrested after returning to the crime scene. Dashcam footage proved crucial in identifying the alleged offender's vehicle. The woman's report assisted police in their swift investigation.

Who got evicted from Big Brother 28: Kamu Kirk has been evicted from Big Brother 28 in Week 6, becoming the sixth houseguest sent home this season. The MMA fighter, widely considered one of the biggest competition threats in the game, was eliminated after Rick Devens used the Diamond Power of Veto to reshape the week's nominations. Angela Murray won the Block Buster to save herself from the block.

Dog paws collect environmental irritants like bacteria and pesticides on walks. Regular paw cleaning protects your pet's health and your home's cleanliness. Simple tools like damp towels and pet-safe wipes make cleaning easy. Inspecting paws for injuries before cleaning is an important step. Consistent paw care ensures a healthier pet and a cleaner living space.

In Jakarta, high-level discussions took place between Chinese defense and foreign ministers and their Indonesian counterparts. Central themes included security, politics, and economic interests, with both parties aiming to elevate military cooperation. Indonesia's strategy to maintain a balance in its relations with China and the United States was also a focus, alongside trade regulations impacting Chinese businesses.

In an unexpected turn, Prince Harry and Meghan are set to return to the UK with their kids, who may be starting at British schools this autumn. This move stirs anticipation over their living situation and safety protocols. A significant challenge is Harrys tenuous relationship with Prince William. Ultimately, healing the royal family's rift may depend on time and mutual acts of forgiveness.

South Korea's Woljeong-ri station project symbolizes peace hopes amid complex inter-Korean relations. President Lee Jae Myung's dovish approach faces hurdles from US actions and North Korea's provocations. Pyongyang ignores Seoul's overtures and labels South Korea its most hostile enemy. The rail project, stalled previously, now inspires skepticism among local residents. South Korea pursues unilateral projects as it seeks openings with the North.

Gold and silver prices rose for a third straight session on the MCX on Friday, supported by a weaker U.S. dollar and expectations of controlled longer-term Treasury yields. MCX silver surged Rs 13,000 over the past three sessions, while gold gained nearly Rs 6,500 per 10 grams. Analysts remained bullish, with key support and resistance levels in focus amid Fed rate uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.

Severe thunderstorms brought heavy rain and flash flood warnings across the Tri-State area. Videos showed drivers being rescued on rafts after their vehicles stalled in Newark floodwaters. Intense showers and thunderstorms caused disruptions and hazardous conditions throughout the region. A possible tornado touched down in Atlantic Beach, Nassau County, officials reported. Other communities experienced flooded roads as storms moved through the area.

The Trump administration is intensifying economic pressure on Iran amid a protracted war. This strategy aims to force Tehran's capitulation on its nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatened secondary sanctions on nations doing business with Iran. Experts debate whether this unprecedented economic campaign will succeed in isolating the country. Iran's officials dismiss the sanctions, stating they will not be easily subdued.

Quote of the day: Brad Blanton's radical honesty philosophy explores the conflict between our presented selves and inner experiences. He believed people suffer by concealing thoughts and feelings from others around them. Blanton developed group exercises to confront withheld truths, which later became workshops. His work argues that maintaining appearances traps people in identities they try to protect.

Pakistan's National Assembly passed two bills to streamline military and nuclear command structures. These bills follow last year's constitutional amendment which introduced a Chief of Defence Forces. The new legislation aims to integrate strategic forces and establish a Defence Forces Headquarters. The Chief of Defence Forces will advise the prime minister on national security matters. These bills now require Senate approval before becoming law.

Welspun Corp secured its largest order valued at $1.8 billion for US pipe supply. This significant contract will be executed during fiscal years twenty twenty-eight and twenty twenty-nine. The company's global order book will reach a record $4.4 billion after this deal. This order strengthens Welspun Corp's presence in the North American energy infrastructure market.

Andhra Pradesh Education Minister Nara Lokesh expressed deep grief over a six-year-old student's death. The minister promised full administrative support to ensure justice for the grieving family. A UKG student allegedly died after being beaten by a teacher at a private school. Officials confirmed the boy collapsed at school and was declared brought dead at the hospital. Strict action will be taken against the teacher and the school management.

Skywatchers in parts of four continents will have an opportunity to observe a major partial lunar eclipse on August 27-28, when Earths umbra will cover most of the Moon. The event will reach its peak at 12:12 a.m. EDT on August 28, while the Moon may appear reddish as sunlight filtered through Earths atmosphere reaches the shadowed surface.

Himachal Pradesh Forest Department and ISB-BIPP signed a five-year pact. This partnership aims to unlock the state's forest economy potential. Science and technology will enable better forest governance and resource utilization. The initiative focuses on community-led enterprises and sustainable livelihood opportunities. This collaboration will strengthen rural economies and conserve forest wealth.

Specific compliments feel more personal and convincing than generic praise. A recent study examined brain responses to sincere praise and flattery. Researchers found greater activation in the brain's reward circuitry for sincere feedback. This suggests that praise matters more when it is grounded in observation. Noticing specific details about someone can make them seem more charismatic.

Frida Kahlo embraced pain, pleasure, and mortality as integral components of the human experience. Her battle with chronic pain granted her profound insights into existence. Contrary to modern tendencies to eschew discomfort, these challenging experiences often unveil hidden truths. By honoring struggle, individuals can unlock a deeper awareness and intellect. Kahlos impact underscores how personal hardships shape creative expression and individuality.

Oil prices are maintaining their momentum, showing potential for a second consecutive week of gains. The escalating tensions between the US and Iran are creating disruptions in oil supply throughout the Middle East. While Brent crude futures have seen a slight uptick, WTI futures registered a small decline. Rising fears about supply constraints from key producers are contributing to these price fluctuations.

Gold prices maintained stability, closing in on a potential third consecutive weekly rise. The support came from a weaker dollar and Treasury measures aimed at reducing yields. Furthermore, a decrease in unemployment claims indicated a steady labor market, leading markets to expect that the Federal Reserve will likely hold interest rates steady in September. Additionally, other precious metals like silver, platinum, and palladium witnessed gains this week.

US-Iran war: United States Vice President JD Vance emphasized that applying economic pressure constitutes Washington's strongest measure against Iran. He described this tactic as a complex maneuver that could have broader implications. Reacting to the recent US sanctions, Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned them as acts of economic terrorism and humanity's crimes. US President Trump revealed exceptional economic operations aimed at disrupting Iran's financial networks.

The Security Council will hold another straw poll Friday for UN leadership contenders. Costa Rica's Rebeca Grynspan led the first informal vote among members. Argentina's Rafael Grossi and Chile's Michelle Bachelet are also candidates. Veto powers may delay their preferences, and new contenders could emerge. This poll aims to provide direction for the ongoing Secretary-General selection process.

Nancy Kissinger, the beloved spouse of former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, has sadly passed away at the age of 92 in her Connecticut residence. Known for her support during numerous international diplomatic efforts alongside her husband, Nancy's legacy lives on through her two stepchildren and five step-grandchildren. Her four-decade-long marriage was marked by significant historical moments and personal warmth.

Canada and the United States are very close to agreeing a trade deal. This agreement could help reduce months of tariffs and counter duties. More work remains to be done before the Saturday deadline. A deal would mark a detente in tense relations between the allies. This would allow broader negotiations on renewing the trade agreement to move forward.

A 15-year-old girl dropped her lawsuit against Meta, Google, and Snap Inc. She had alleged social media addiction and mental health issues. Her attorney stated the dismissal allows her client to resume her life. TikTok had previously settled her claims, while other cases proceed. Companies deny allegations and state they protect young users.

President Trump signed a memo to significantly increase U.S. commercial space launches. The directive aims for one thousand launches and re-entries annually by 2030. It also calls for identifying new federal launch and re-entry sites. The policy encourages private sector partnerships for space infrastructure development. This initiative supports returning astronauts to the moon by 2028.

Guatemala reports receiving nearly 2,300 deported Mexicans from the United States this year. These individuals are flown to Guatemala and then transferred to Mexico within 24 hours. Mexico officially opposes this practice and is working to repatriate its citizens. U.S. authorities reaffirm commitment to Trump-era immigration policies and ending illegal immigration. This tactic may aim to deter illegal reentry by moving migrants farther from the border.

The Trump administration is increasing economic penalties on Cuban industries. New sanctions target mining, metal, and construction companies, and friendship organizations. Americans visiting Cuba face stricter enforcement of laws barring dealings with state-owned businesses. This action follows recent detentions of citizens returning from Cuba. These measures aim to further isolate Cuba amid its economic crisis.

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was moved to a hospital in Islamabad. This transfer followed a Supreme Court order and a long-standing demand from his supporters. Khan's party stated his health had deteriorated significantly while imprisoned for over three years. The move is seen as a potential step towards easing political tensions in Pakistan. His party continues to demand access and speedy hearings for his cases.

Quote of the Day by Jamie Dimon: Some of your success will be how you deal with the failure... challenges the idea that resilience means staying strong every minute. Dimon acknowledges that failure can hurt, shake confidence and leave people needing time to process what happened. But he also draws a firm line between feeling the loss and becoming trapped by it.

Canadian provincial leaders express strong criticism of President Donald Trump. They urge Canada to resist making further concessions in ongoing trade talks. Restoring American alcohol sales remains a key point of contention for provinces. Federal officials report significant progress toward finalizing a trade agreement. Tariffs on Canadian imports have been postponed until Saturday morning.

Quote of the day by Emma Watson provides a timeless reminder about authenticity, confidence, and the importance of trusting yourself. No matter how carefully you live, someone will eventually disagree with a decision you make. Attempting to avoid all criticism can lead to a life shaped more by other peoples expectations than by your own values. A healthier approach is to listen thoughtfully, learn continuously, consider consequences, and then have the courage to choose a direction that feels rig

United States Treasury chief Scott Bessent announced unprecedented sanctions against Iran. These stringent measures aim to avoid significant new military operations. Oil prices surged following these threats of financial penalties. Iran condemned the sanctions as economic terrorism and vowed defiance. Details of the comprehensive sanctions package will be revealed next week.

Quote of the day by Usain Bolt offers a timeless reminder that manners are among the simplest ways to demonstrate respect. Saying good morning may take only a moment, but the habit represents something much larger: awareness of others, humility, kindness, and a willingness to contribute positively to everyday life. Success and achievement may attract attention, but character is often revealed through ordinary interactions when no audience is watching.

Quote of the day by Demi Lovato offers a timeless lesson about facing adversity, embracing growth, and building a happier life. Difficult experiences are unavoidable, but they do not have to become permanent barriers to fulfillment. By acknowledging what happened, learning from it, making healthier choices, and continuing forward, people can gradually transform hardship into wisdom and resilience.

Quote of the day by Amy Adams offers a timely lesson about optimism, intelligence, resilience, and the power of perspective. A positive attitude should not automatically be confused with ignorance, just as pessimism should not automatically be mistaken for wisdom. The strongest outlook often combines realism with hope: seeing problems clearly while remaining willing to search for solutions.

Denmark's Re-Match facility recycles artificial turf, recovering up to ninety-five percent of materials. This process separates plastic fibers, sand, and crumb rubber for reuse. The company aims for a circular system, upcycling plastic into new turf resin. The United States lacks comparable recycling infrastructure for its many fields.

Millions of hectares of protected tropical forests were lost to wildfires between 2001 and 2024. Wildfire destruction inside protected areas has significantly accelerated since 2016. The tropical Americas, especially Brazil, experienced the vast majority of these losses. Protected areas offered some reduction in fire risk, particularly in Africa.

Quote of the Day by Johnny Depp: Johnny Depps quote, My body is my journal, and my tattoos are my story, explores the importance of personal expression, memories, and identity. The quote suggests that tattoos can represent meaningful experiences, emotions, relationships, and important moments in a persons life, turning the body into a visual record of their personal journey.

As the Scorpio Moon rises on August 21, 2026, expect previously concealed emotions to emerge, inspiring couples to foster candid and meaningful dialogues. The intensity will vary across zodiac signs, with some experiencing profound moments and others encountering tests of endurance. Singles are encouraged to take their time to build trust before investing emotionally, as the day highlights the need for deep connections and clarity in love.

Wuppertal's Schwebebahn, a suspended railway, has connected communities since 1901. This unique transport system travels above the Wupper River and city streets. Engineers designed the railway to navigate the challenging river valley geography. The Schwebebahn remains a vital part of daily life and a tourist attraction.

The Sagittarius Moon on August 21, 2026, offers a confidence boost for three zodiac signs. Virgo may stop doubting their potential and embrace new financial opportunities. Pisces will see their previous efforts finally feel worthwhile and productive. Leo's patience will start paying off as their ambition becomes practical. This celestial event encourages optimism and belief in long-term financial goals.

In 1712, an English inventor and ironmonger invented the first atmospheric engine, creating a machine that used steam and atmospheric pressure to pump water from mines. Thomas Newcomen developed the engine with John Calley after years of experiments. The machine helped mines reach deeper coal and tin deposits and became part of the development of steam power and the Industrial Revolution.

In 2025, German startup SAXON Q demonstrated a 4-qubit quantum computer that worked at room temperature. Now, the company is moving much further. It has opened orders for 128-qubit and 512-qubit quantum computers designed to fit inside standard server racks. That matters because quantum machines have long depended on complex cooling systems. SAXON Qs approach could make quantum computing easier to install, access and use in real-world computing environments.

Lilly Chen's unique path led her from a Buddhist monastery to Meta and then to founding FSH Technologies. A pandemic hackathon project with friends unexpectedly launched her startup, which now serves government clients. The company tackles administrative problems end-to-end, differing from traditional consulting models. FSH Technologies focuses on hands-on builders addressing complex government challenges directly. This business evolved from a casual project into a significant technology enterpr