The Economic Times

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah supports the continued suspension of the India Water Treaty. He stated Pakistan should not be selective in its sympathies towards Kashmiris. Abdullah also urged security officials to take terror threats against Kashmiri Pandits seriously. He emphasized the need for full security arrangements for minority employees in the valley. The Chief Minister also condemned the attack on Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated his thirteenth consecutive Independence Day speech in 2026, delivering his address from the historic Red Fort in just seventy-eight minutes. This years speech was a departure from his longer addresses in the past. With this achievement, Modi surpasses Indira Gandhis record, while Jawaharlal Nehru remains the all-time leader in consecutive speeches.

Indias payments ecosystem has evolved dramatically, from hundis and merchant networks that moved value across long distances to formal banking, electronic transfers and the digital infrastructure behind UPI. Each technological leap solved the same fundamental challenge: enabling money to travel securely and efficiently without physically moving cash from one place to another.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a series of transformative initiatives aimed at shaping India's future growth. He pledged that one crore youth will receive AI skill training in the coming year. Additionally, free online coaching will be available for students preparing for various exams. Plans include a revamped Civil Defence network and a nationwide initiative to discover sports talent.

Ankur Warikoo shared three parenting rules for raising his 15- and 9-year-old children. He teaches them to distinguish needs from wants instead of saying they cannot afford something. He avoids overprotecting them, encouraging independence and problem-solving. His third rule is about relationships: children may witness disagreements, but never disrespect. For Warikoo, these lessons build financial awareness, independence and healthy relationships.

Happy Hariyali Teej 2026 wishes, messages, quotes, and WhatsApp status to share with your loved ones: Here are Happy Hariyali Teej 2026 wishes, quotes, messages, greetings and WhatsApp status ideas to share with your husband, wife, family, friends and loved ones.

Beginning in South Carolina, the Democratic Party's 2028 presidential primary calendar spotlights diversity in state representation and key voter segments. With a focus on appealing to Black, Latino, and union constituents, this new approach seeks to mirror the nation's demographics more effectively, ensuring candidates are primed for the rigors of the upcoming general election.

The Indian equity market saw a decline on Friday, ending a lackluster trading week as geopolitical tensions and rising crude oil prices loomed over Dalal Street. With the benchmark indices marking their third consecutive week of losses, market apprehensions were evident. Despite this, the results season brought some volatility, with a notable interest from both foreign and domestic institutions amidst the ongoing market fluctuations.

PM Modi said India has succeeded in eliminating armed Naxalism after decades of violence, while warning that people with what he called a Naxal mindset still need to be identified and isolated.

A bank employee in Varanasi has built a tiffin business generating Rs 7.27 lakh in monthly revenue, according to social media user Ankit Pandey. Starting with 20 customers in January, the venture now serves 291 students and workers. After Rs 3.03 lakh in monthly expenses, it reportedly earns Rs 4.24 lakh in operating surplus. Despite earning far more through the business, she has no plans to quit her job.

The Reserve Bank of India has moved the FCNR(B) deposit deadline to August 31 in response to better-than-expected foreign currency inflows. This adjustment follows a positive uptake of the swap facility linked to these deposits, with inflows surpassing previous totals. Meanwhile, the swap schemes for External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) and Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings (OFCBs) will proceed as initially scheduled.

Investors focus on corporate earnings to offset economic risks and rate concerns. Strong results, particularly from AI infrastructure spending, are bolstering market confidence. Companies are providing positive guidance, suggesting continued economic activity. Geopolitical tensions and oil prices remain potential inflation drivers. However, robust earnings are currently outweighing broader macroeconomic uncertainties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced free online coaching for young people preparing for competitive examinations. He said the initiative will use Indias digital public infrastructure, teachers and other resources to reduce the financial burden of coaching classes on poor and middle-class families.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged for a stronger civil defence volunteer network. India must prepare for challenges both domestically and internationally. A voluntary force will be established to address modern security concerns. This initiative aims to build a resilient nation ready for any eventuality. The Prime Minister emphasized preparedness for future challenges.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has called for a peaceful revolution in how India chooses its leaders, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to work towards a decriminalised Parliament. He also sought public suggestions on people he could consult about democratic reforms.

India has opened most coastal waters for offshore exploration to discover new hydrocarbon reserves and strengthen energy security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said 85,000 crore has been allocated to accelerate exploration under the Samudra Manthan initiative and reduce dependence on imported energy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a new framework called 'Sapta Dhara' for India. This framework identifies seven key areas to accelerate the nation's development. Modi stated these streams of strength will guide India towards becoming a Viksit Bharat. He believes this initiative can achieve decades of progress in just five years. The Prime Minister emphasized a holistic approach for national advancement.

Happy Independence Day 2026 Wishes, Images, Quotes, Status, Photos, Greeting Cards And Messages: India celebrates its 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026. Here are Happy Independence Day wishes, quotes, messages, greetings, images and WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram status ideas to share with family and friends.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid floral tributes to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day.

Bank holiday today: Cstomers are advised to check local holiday schedules, as state-specific holidays may further impact branch operations throughout the month. With regional festivals leading to varying closures in different states, it ensures employees can take time off for significant national and local events.

An earthquake of magnitude 7.7 struck eastern Indonesia early Saturday morning. Several aftershocks followed the initial powerful tremor, which lasted for one minute. Minor tsunami waves were recorded in several coastal areas after the quake. Many residents evacuated their homes, but no significant damage was initially reported. Hospitals began moving patients to safer locations as a precaution.

New Delhi is on high alert for Independence Day celebrations. Over twenty-five thousand police and paramilitary personnel are deployed citywide. Elaborate security arrangements are in place around the Red Fort. Advanced surveillance systems and response teams are actively monitoring the area. Coordinated efforts ensure preparedness for any potential emergency situation.

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Indonesia's Flores Island, prompting a local tsunami warning. Authorities urged residents to move to higher ground and stay away from coastal areas. The shallow undersea quake was followed by three strong aftershocks, causing significant shaking. Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly susceptible to such seismic events.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended congratulations to India on its 80th Independence Day. He stated that the bilateral relationship between the United States and India is stronger than ever. This enhanced partnership is attributed to the personal connection between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Collaboration spans defense, energy, critical minerals, and space cooperation between the two nations.

Quote of the day by Ben Affleck teaches us that forgiveness is not weakness, surrender, or permission for harmful behavior to continue. It is a deliberate process of separating the lesson from the resentment and the past from the present.

PM Modi at Red Fort LIVE: 80th Independence Day celebrations | PM Modis address

Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored India's freedom fighters on Independence Day. He stated their sacrifices inspire the nation's journey toward a developed India. The Prime Minister emphasized 140 crore Indians power the country's progress. He expressed hope for increased development pace in coming years. This progress is driven by citizens' collective efforts and aspirations.

The Sir Ratan Tata Trust faces curbs, impacting Tata Sons' annual general meeting. The Sir Dorabji Tata Trust noted a lack of quorum for the upcoming meeting. N Chandrasekaran may continue as director until a valid AGM is convened. Some trustees individually sought relief from the charity commissioner. An inquiry into a 1989 share transfer is also underway.

Feeling too attached to your worldly possessions? We all are. No one is a stranger to being overly obsessed with material pleasures. However, a German proverb reminds us that, like everything, our time on earth is short, and also we come on earth empty-handed and leave empty-handed.

The association between endometriosis and a higher diabetes risk was strongest among premenopausal women and women without obesity -- groups not traditionally considered at the highest risk for type 2 diabetes, the researchers said.

The S&P 500's streak came to an end, falling from its peak as weaker retail sales suggested caution among consumers. Despite a strong outlook, Applied Materials saw its shares slump, dragging down AI-related stocks. In contrast, rising oil prices helped lift the energy index. Reddit experienced a surge following news of its index inclusion.

Dragonfly larvae data from thirteen years helped scientists develop a new mercury risk model. This model estimates freshwater mercury risk in areas lacking direct monitoring data. It combines larval mercury levels with water chemistry and landscape characteristics. The model can guide future testing and inform fish consumption advisories for communities.

An Italian fighter jet downed an unknown drone in Latvian airspace on Friday. Latvian soldiers are searching for debris from the drone near Rugaji village. This incident occurred during Ukrainian attacks on Russian ports near St Petersburg. NATO confirmed its readiness to react to any potential threats to its territory. Baltic nations are increasing security amid drone spillover from the Ukraine war.

US President Trump directed the Navy to revert to steam catapults for new aircraft carriers. This design change will add hundreds of millions of dollars to taxpayer costs. The Navy will also be permitted to build ships overseas for the first time in decades. Foreign shipbuilders making investments in US shipyards can build up to two vessels.

Happy Independence Day 2026: Vande Matram Lyrics in English: On India's 80th Independence Day, the timeless patriotic anthem Vande Mataram will take center stage, resonating from the Red Fort's ramparts for the very first time. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this historic ceremony will culminate in the unfurling of the national flag, followed by the stirring rendition of the national anthem to commemorate the occasion.

Over the years, the economy has evolved dramaticallyfrom rising incomes and a larger global footprint to deeper integration with the world economy and a shift towards services. India has come a long way, but significant challenges remain. Anoushka Sawhney takes a look.

The Nagaland Baptist Church Council opposes making Vande Mataram singing compulsory. Students' federation also asked institutions to avoid the full national song. They believe the complete version conflicts with the country's secular principles. The council respects national symbols but emphasizes freedom of conscience and identity. They urge sensitivity and dialogue over coercion for national unity.

As India prepares for the Galle Test match, unpredictable weather threatens gameplay. The batting lineup is pivotal in restoring morale and achieving valuable runs. On match day, the team will finalize their strategy, likely deploying three spinners alongside two pacers. Captain Shubman Gill emphasizes the importance of adapting to Sri Lankas pitch dynamics as the team strives for series victories without succumbing to pressure.

India has reduced windfall taxes on petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel exports. The duty on diesel exports is now 24 rupees per litre, while petrol duty is zero. Aviation turbine fuel exports will now face a 19.5 rupee per litre tax. These levies were first imposed in July 2022 and reintroduced in March 2026. India revises these export taxes every fortnight based on global oil prices.

The PM Internship Scheme is designed to bridge the gap between industry requirements and the skill sets of job seekers. Recognizing a significant shortfall in skilled labor nationwide, senior industry leaders emphasized the need for enhanced workforce readiness. Thus, the government upgraded the scheme, raising stipends to 9,000 and lowering the eligibility age to eighteen. Now, final-year undergraduates can participate in this initiative from the corporate affairs ministry.

World Liberty Financial, along with its partners, has pushed back the launch of a digital token sale linked to a luxury Maldives resort. This token was designed to give investors a slice of the revenue generated from resort loans. Originally set for this spring, the event is now delayed due to ongoing travel disruptions caused by the conflict with Iran.

In July, India's wholesale inflation decreased marginally to 9.8 percent, aided by falling energy prices which alleviated the pressures from increasing primary and manufactured goods costs. Conversely, retail inflation rose slightly to 4.5 percent, with food inflation peaking at a nineteen-month high, primarily due to hikes in prices of manufactured and primary food items. Predictions suggest wholesale price index inflation may dip below 9.5 percent next month.

80th Independence Day: The Economic Times wishes everyone a Happy Independence Day

The Supreme Court fined Reliance Industries ten lakh rupees for delaying a suit. NTPC filed the natural gas supply contract case against Reliance back in 2005. The court noted Reliance's continuous obstruction of the legal proceedings for two decades. This action came after the Bombay High Court's decision regarding witness affidavits. The apex court expressed strong disapproval of the prolonged litigation and its impact.

La Liga kicks off this weekend, even as several matches have been pushed back. The defending champions, Barcelona, along with Real Madrid, will launch their seasons next week. Celta Vigo faces a delay for their home opener due to a fungal issue on the pitch. In the meantime, Atletico Madrid will host Malaga amid speculations regarding Julian Alvarez's future.

The New Development Bank is set to invest $7.5 billion in India, focusing on local currency financing aimed at strengthening emerging economies. By launching a rupee bond program, the bank aims to enhance India's domestic capital markets. This initiative reflects the bank's commitment to diversifying international financial structures, capitalizing on the substantial growth prospects that India's development presents.

Arizona State University launched a new bachelor's degree in content creation, sparking debate. Many universities are now offering similar programs to attract students seeking new careers. Content creation is a time-consuming and labour-intensive job, often with low initial pay. While the creator economy is growing, most revenue does not go to individual creators.