The Economic Times

Sawan Amavasya, also known as Hariyali Amavasya, will be observed on August 12, 2026. Devotees will worship Lord Shiva and perform rituals for their ancestors on this auspicious day. The Amavasya Tithi begins early on August 12 and concludes late that evening. Bathing in holy rivers and making donations are considered highly beneficial practices. These traditions are believed to bring peace, happiness, and ancestral blessings to families.

The Powerball jackpot has soared to an astounding one billion dollars, with the next drawing set for Wednesday, August 12. Players have the option to receive their winnings as a lump sum or through an annuity. Despite the enticing prize, winning remains a daunting challenge with odds standing at 1 in 292.2 million. Previously, multiple smaller jackpots have already been awarded this year.

The Himachal Pradesh government has imposed a new cess on fuel. This levy of sixty paise per litre applies to petrol and diesel. The Widow and Orphan Cess came into effect from midnight on August eleventh. Revenue generated will support welfare measures for widows and orphaned children. This move follows recent legislative amendments empowering the state government.

In a notable legal decision, a judge mandated that the Kennedy Center compensate jazz musician Chuck Redd with over $250,000. This follows Redd's cancellation of a Christmas Eve show due to President Trump's name being displayed prominently. Although the Kennedy Center threatened legal action for $1 million, the judge dismissed the case, referencing a lack of a binding contract and the protective measures under the district's anti-SLAPP law.

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In an extraordinary 2017 solar eclipse, zoo animals displayed peculiar behaviors that took researchers by surprise. Galapagos tortoises started mating, while gibbons serenaded with unfamiliar melodies. Gorillas settled into their nighttime routines, and giraffes momentarily bolted from imagined threats. Interestingly, wild aerial creatures responded to the dimming skies by halting their daylight pursuits, perceiving the phenomenon as an impending storm.

Sand piranhas, scientifically known as Excirolana chiltoni, are tiny marine isopods that inhabit sandy intertidal areas along Pacific coastlines. Although their nickname sounds intimidating, these rice-sized crustaceans primarily act as scavengers, feeding on dead animals, seaweed, kelp and other organic debris beneath wet beach sand. When they detect chemical signals from food, they can gather in large numbers and rapidly consume the material. Their feeding contributes to the breakdown and recy

Quote of the day by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Do not judge, and you will never be mistaken, explains why quick judgments can lead to wrong conclusions. The saying asks people to pause before forming opinions about others. It highlights incomplete information, humility, open-mindedness, self-awareness, empathy, human relationships, clarity and inner peace while showing how restraint can prevent errors.

Spanish proverb of the day: A Spanish saying highlights observing rain while staying dry. This saying reflects on viewing others' difficulties from a safe distance. It suggests that problems appear simpler when one is not directly involved. The proverb encourages pausing before judging others' challenging situations.

In 2017, a woman suffered severe vision impairment after gazing at a partial solar eclipse without protective eyewear. This led to solar retinopathy, manifesting as a crescent-shaped blind spot. Intense sunlight damaged her retina's photoreceptors, prompting doctors to utilize advanced imaging techniques to assess her eye condition. This case serves as a critical reminder of the hazards associated with direct solar observation.

Today's Quote of the Day by Seneca: The famous quote by Seneca, Its not because things are difficult that we dare not venture. Its because we dare not venture that they are difficult, explains how human fear amplifies hardship. Seneca asserts that most obstacles appear insurmountable only because we hesitate to confront them directly. By shifting our perspective from passive avoidance to active engagement, we dismantle artificial psychological barriers.

Japanese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Trying to apply eye drops from the 2nd floor. The saying reflects the importance of using the right approach, understanding a situation clearly, and applying effort where it can actually make a difference. It suggests that even a simple task can become impossible when attempted from the wrong position or without proper understanding. The proverb reminds us that good intentions alone are not enough; effective action requires the right method,

African proverb of the day, Even the best cooking pot will not produce food, explains why talent, skills, education, money and resources cannot create success without action. The proverb compares potential with an empty pot and effort with the ingredients and fire needed to prepare food. It teaches planning, responsibility, initiative, hard work and execution as necessary steps towards achieving goals.

The United States has urged Pakistan to improve fiscal transparency measures. Pakistan must subject military and intelligence budgets to public oversight. Information on government debt obligations, including state-owned enterprises, needs disclosure. The US report noted Pakistan did not publish its executive budget proposal promptly. This initiative supports appropriate use of US taxpayer funds and champions transparency.

In an unexpected move, Brad Lightcap, an instrumental executive at OpenAI, announced his departure to chase fresh opportunities. Since joining in 2018, he has been vital in shaping the company's enterprise business alongside Sam Altman. Despite leaving, Lightcap maintains a strong faith in OpenAI's vision and intends to assist the team as he ventures into new projects.

The oil market is witnessing unprecedented volatility amid the intensifying US-Iran hostilities. Iran's surprising maneuver to shut down the critical Hormuz waterway has caught the attention of global investors. President Trumps inconsistent remarks have also played a pivotal role in shaping market reactions. Despite the rise in crude prices, they remain below expert expectations.

Quote of the day by Chris Hemsworth offers a warm reminder that heroism often begins at home. The people who influence us most may not realize the extent of their impact because they are simply living their lives. Their sacrifices can seem ordinary to them while becoming defining lessons for their children. A parent's work ethic can inspire ambition. Their kindness can shape compassion. Their resilience can teach courage. Their ability to love through difficult circumstances can provide a lifelo

Ukraine has presented its proposals to United States negotiators for a peace plan. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy conveyed these ideas during his nightly video address. The United States can bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities, particularly air defense systems. This assistance aims to pressure Russia into ending the ongoing conflict. Ukraine seeks a resolution rather than a prolonged continuation of hostilities.

In 1856, an English chemist invented a unique material which set the foundation stone for huge global industry. Alexander Parkes developed Parkesine, a material made from nitrocellulose and other substances. It became the first man-made thermoplastic and later became a precursor to celluloid. Parkes displayed Parkesine in London in 1862, but production problems prevented his company from succeeding commercially.

A new regulation threatens alternative investment funds' established structures. These funds have relied on Indian ownership for sponsor and manager control. The draft rules suggest foreign investor funding could now determine control status. This change may impact investments in restricted sectors like real estate. Existing funds await clarity on grandfathering and future foreign investment rules.

Gunther von Hagens, the pioneering inventor of plastination who sparked both fascination and controversy, has passed away at eighty-one. His 'Body Worlds' exhibitions, showcasing real human cadavers preserved through his innovative method, attracted millions globally. In accordance with his last wishes, von Hagens' own body will be plastinated. He championed the idea that understanding our anatomy fosters a healthier, more conscientious society.

Jennifer Bailey, Apple's longtime head of Pay and Wallet, is retiring in October. She has led significant growth in payment services and the Apple Card. Bailey's departure adds to a wave of senior executives exiting the tech giant. This demographic shift sees many long-serving leaders reaching retirement age. Apple will announce its succession plan before Bailey's transition.

Taliban barred 2.4 million Afghan girls from secondary education since 2021. Afghanistan is the only country with such formal bans on education. This risks condemning the nation to decades of lost potential and poverty. UNESCO estimates significant income losses and increased early marriage risks. The ban also exacerbates a shortage of qualified female teachers in schools.

Todays Quote of the Day by Orlando Bloom: Orlando Blooms famous quote You reach a point in life, and you just want to... is ultimately a message about refusing to let comfort become a permanent destination. The actor argues that life becomes richer when we continue taking action, accepting challenges, and allowing ourselves to experience what lies beyond familiar routines.

Quote of the day by Alan Furst: Novelist Alan Furst suggests good people focus on daily life and simple pleasures. Bad people, conversely, are consumed by their wrongdoing and negative actions. Furst's quote emphasizes where individuals direct their attention and choices. This offers a reminder to focus on everyday life and meaningful relationships.

Psychology says people who wear unkempt clothes at home aren't lazy or depressed. Wearing old, loose or worn clothes can be linked to physical comfort, reduced social pressure and a need to separate private life from public roles. At home, people may stop thinking about appearance and allow themselves to rest. This behaviour alone does not indicate poor mental health or lack of discipline.

Life's challenging moments often lead us to unexpected joy and personal growth. This insight teaches us that happiness and resilience can rise from adversity. Difficult experiences cultivate patience and a profound appreciation for brighter times. It's crucial to recognize that life encompasses both sadness and happiness, enriching our understanding of joy's true value.

Quote of the Day by Ariana Grande: Ariana Grandes quote, Too many young girls have eating disorders due to low self-esteem and distorted body image. I think its so important for girls to love themselves and to treat their bodies respectfully, explores the importance of self-esteem, body acceptance, and emotional well-being. The quote suggests that young people should develop a healthy relationship with their bodies without allowing unrealistic beauty standards, comparisons, or negative perceptio

Embracing unpredictability, actor Jeff Bridges reveals that life and filmmaking are filled with delightful surprises. He notes how spontaneous encounters often lead to unexpected opportunities, enriching both his career and personal life. Acknowledging the beauty in the unknown, he believes that these unforeseen circumstances forge the most treasured memories, crafting a journey full of extraordinary experiences.

Khalil Gibrans powerful quote, Tenderness and kindness are not signs of weakness and despair, but manifestations of strength and resolution, offers a timeless lesson about compassion, courage and inner strength. The quote of the day by Khalil Gibran explores why kindness is not weakness, but a conscious choice that reflects emotional resilience and true character. It highlights that how choosing kindness in the face of hardship can be one of the clearest signs of inner strength, making this time

In 1839, a Scottish blacksmith invented the first rear-wheel-driven vehicle which set the world in motion and laid the foundation of modern transport. Kirkpatrick Macmillan built a pedal-operated bicycle using wooden wheels, iron rims, treadles and connecting rods. His machine allowed a rider to move without pushing against the ground. His role remains debated by historians.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council stated the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed. This closure depends on the United States changing its behavior and accepting Iran's demands. Iran wants the US to end the war and unfreeze Iranian funds overseas. Other conditions have been conveyed to the US through intermediaries. Secretary Mohsen Rezaei made these remarks on Tuesday.

A London fathers 34-year-old shoe store was close to shutting down after years of declining business. Then his daughter, Zineb Lazraq, turned to TikTok to showcase the shops unique footwear. One viral video brought a flood of younger customers, transforming the struggling family business into a social media sensation where shoppers now wait for hours to

Russia has agreed to release American citizen Robert Gilman, a former Marine. President Donald Trump announced this development after speaking with President Vladimir Putin. Trump stated that Russia requested no individuals in return for this release. This decision marks a significant diplomatic outcome between the two nations. The United States appreciates Russia's gesture in this matter.

Chinas decades-long reforestation campaign has dramatically expanded vegetation across the country, including through the Three-North Shelterbelt, or The Great Green Wall. According to Reuters, China added about 116,000 square miles of trees, while forest coverage increased substantially. However, a 2025 study in Earths Future found that the transformation has also affected Chinas hydrology.

Putin's Palace, an opulent estate along the Black Sea, has once again captured public attention. Ukrainian forces have targeted an air-defence installation nearby, raising concerns regarding the security surrounding this lavishly controversial compound. As discussions about its immense cost and murky ownership persist, this latest strike further amplifies scrutiny over the fortress-like residence and its defenses.

Atlanta wind turbine blade bridge: A retired wind-turbine blade now serves as a footbridge in Atlanta's Beaverbrook Park. This innovative structure spans a creek, granting access to previously unreachable parkland. Engineers meticulously tested the blade's material properties to ensure its structural integrity for this new purpose.

John Gottis grandson Carmine Agnello has reported to federal prison after a judge denied another request to delay his 15-month sentence. Agnello had sought more time to donate a kidney to his mother, Victoria Gotti but doctors werent able to proceed with surgery because his mom had suffered a severe infection.

Scientists and engineers explored the feasibility of human missions to Titan. Titan offers a dense atmosphere and abundant local chemistry for potential fuel production. Robotic missions like Dragonfly will precede any crewed expedition to gather data. Closing scientific and technical gaps will require decades of dedicated effort. The focus remains on long-term planning and sustained innovation for future exploration.

American proverb of the day, A dose of adversity is often as needful as a dose of medicine, explains how hardships can contribute to personal growth. The proverb compares difficult experiences with medicine. Both can be unpleasant, but both can help address weaknesses. It offers lessons about resilience, wisdom, character, gratitude and inner strength while showing why challenges can shape how people respond to life.

The World Bank expressed serious concern over redirecting housing funds. This move could deepen poverty and increase disaster vulnerabilities for families. Many beneficiaries are ultra-poor, earning less than seventy dollars monthly. The bank warned that excluded families face a cycle of deeper poverty. Grievances were registered, and individual communication was requested for all.

Ugandas shoebill is one of Africas strangest birds, standing up to 140 centimeters tall with a huge hooked bill built for catching large fish. The prehistoric-looking bird lives in papyrus wetlands around Lake Victoria, including Mabamba Wetland. It can wait motionless before striking lungfish, catfish and tilapia with surprising force. Its Vulnerable status also makes every wild sighting more than a wildlife spectacle. The wetland itself is part of the story.

Russia is shipping crude oil via its Arctic route faster than last year. Seven cargoes carrying six million barrels are already heading to Asia. This route significantly cuts journey times to China compared to traditional sea lanes. Mild ice conditions and logistical issues elsewhere support these Arctic shipments. Increased oil supplies via the NSR are expected this year due to various factors.