The Times of India
Elections 2026Lifestyle / The Times of India
Monsoon rains often push snakes from their burrows seeking shelter and warmth. Snakes follow scent trails of rodents and birds, their primary food sources. Amphibians and small fish also attract snakes to damp, waterlogged garden areas. Pheromones left by other snakes can draw them into yards during mating season. Understanding these attractants helps people avoid unwanted reptile encounters near homes.
Educator Vijendra Singh Chauhan highlights how everyday parental actions harm children. Constant criticism and shaming erode a child's self-worth and trust. Emotional blackmail manipulates children, damaging their sense of safety. Children need autonomy and space to develop their own opinions. Healthy parenting prioritizes emotional security and unconditional love for well-being.
Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal, was born in Scotland in 1996. Her birth sparked global debate about the ethics and safety of cloning technology. Dolly mated and had four lambs, but later developed arthritis and lung disease. Cloning mammals remains inefficient, with epigenetic reprogramming posing a significant challenge. This research also advanced the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells for medical use.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the new Sant Ravidas Express on July 17, 2026. This train will connect Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with Chheharta near Amritsar. Passengers can expect faster and more comfortable overnight travel between these two spiritual destinations. The service will operate three times weekly, offering modern amenities and direct connectivity. Ticket booking details and fares will be announced by Indian Railways closer to the launch.
Every parent has said it at least once. Your child points at something in a shopa toy, a game, a pair of shoesand before you even finish thinking, the words come out automatically: We can't afford it. It feels harmless. It feels like the easiest way to end the conversation. But psychologists say those four words may be doing more damage than we realize, quietly shaping how our children think about money for the rest of their lives.
Odisha is increasing COVID-19 surveillance due to two recent deaths in Andhra Pradesh. Health authorities are monitoring districts bordering the neighboring state closely. Lakhs of devotees are expected for the annual Rath Yatra celebration this July. Travelers are urged to follow basic health precautions and avoid attending if unwell. No travel restrictions have been announced for the upcoming religious gathering.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds deep spiritual meaning for many faiths. Devotees circle Mount Kailash, which is considered the abode of Lord Shiva. The year 2026 marks a rare Fire Horse Year, enhancing spiritual potency. This alignment occurs only once every sixty years, making it significant. Pilgrims believe bathing in Lake Mansarovar cleanses karma during this auspicious time.
Parenting influencer Sukhleen Aarora shares effective toys for toddlers. These toys keep children engaged and support healthy development. Hanging bat ball and magnet tiles offer active and creative play. Mini sports champ and story box encourage physical and imaginative skills. Dancing mats and block sets provide further interactive and developmental opportunities.
Diatomaceous earth offers a natural solution for ant problems. This powder works by physically damaging insect exoskeletons and causing dehydration. Unlike vinegar, it directly affects the ant's body, not just scent trails. For effectiveness, diatomaceous earth must be applied in dry conditions. This method provides a science-guided approach to pest control.
A mother and son recently graduated together from IIT Madras's online program. Jigisha Tailor earned her diploma while her son Aditya Kapadia received his degree. They both pursued the Data Science and Applications course during the pandemic. Their shared academic journey fostered a unique bond and mutual motivation. This heartwarming story highlights the value of lifelong learning for all ages.
Harry Kane prioritizes his family above his football career. His wife Katie and their four children are his greatest joy. He cherishes moments with his children after matches and during celebrations. Moving to Munich with his family has been a positive experience. Kane considers his family his ultimate accomplishment in life.
Family vacations can turn into nightmares when children go missing unexpectedly. Real-life cases highlight how easily kids can disappear in unfamiliar places. Parents must remain vigilant and never leave children unattended, even briefly. These incidents underscore the critical need for constant supervision and staying together. Safeguarding children's welfare is paramount during all family travel experiences.
You don't need fancy powders or expensive wellness shots. A few simple drinks that are already part of many Indian kitchens can support healthier-looking skin when paired with a balanced diet, sunscreen and a good skincare routine. Here are five drinks worth adding to your daily routine.
Children remember parental words which shape their inner voice and self-view. Specific phrases foster listening and validate their emotions and experiences. Acknowledging feelings and mistakes builds resilience and a secure foundation for growth. Encouraging children to solve problems builds their confidence and independent thinking skills. Celebrating effort over outcomes teaches valuable lessons about persistence and self-improvement.
The entrance door is one of the first things visitors see at your home. A new coat of paint will help you refresh the facade and add some personality to it without spending extra money on renovation. No matter what colour you choose, it will help you highlight your door and attract people's attention. If you need some inspiration to decorate the entrance door, here are eight front door paint ideas for you.
An eighty-year-old woman, Dadi Ji, has achieved a remarkable feat by reaching Umling La Pass. This location is recognized as the world's highest motorable pass, standing at nineteen thousand twenty-four feet. Her journey, documented by The Travelist, has gained significant attention across social media platforms. Dadi Ji's accomplishment serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that age is merely a number for pursuing dreams.
A viral video highlights how children notice adult inconsistencies in behavior and faith. Parents teach values through actions, not just lectures, which children absorb. Consistency in behavior builds trust and teaches accountability to young observers. Daily actions often speak louder than religious rituals for children. Authenticity and admitting mistakes are key parenting lessons for adults.
Growing a peach tree of your own can be considered among the most rewarding projects in gardening. Given a proper type of tree, right planting, and maintenance, the plant can give you both fragrant spring blossoms and tasty, juicy fruits in the growing season. Even though peaches are traditionally related to warmer zones, now there are varieties of this fruit that will thrive in various climatic conditions, provided they have sufficient sunshine and proper drainage. Here is a simple guide on how
Adults are increasingly squeezed between raising children and caring for ageing parents. This sandwich generation faces immense emotional and practical burdens daily. Social changes like longer lifespans and smaller families contribute to this growing trend. Self-care is essential for caregivers to sustain their efforts effectively. Sharing responsibilities and seeking support are crucial for managing these demands.
Couples can improve their relationship by avoiding common communication pitfalls. Interrupting and using absolute terms like 'always' and 'never' hinder understanding. Bringing up past mistakes and making assumptions create unnecessary conflict. Focusing on winning arguments and letting anger control discussions is detrimental. Active listening and acknowledging emotions foster healthier interactions between partners.
Sadhguru highlights the importance of achieving inner stability in the face of life's unpredictable shifts. He asserts that while passion drives progress, it is rational thought that steers it appropriately. This equilibrium is crucial to avoid the pitfalls of unchecked ambition. In today's fast-paced world, mental clarity is essential for maintaining focused goals. True advancement arises from the ability to be both daring and clear-minded simultaneously.
These changes don't happen overnight, and they're rarely dramatic. They arrive quietly, almost without you noticing. Yet over time, they can completely change the way you experience life. Here are five ways meditation can transform you from within.
Spiritual traditions suggest removing broken items and dead plants from homes. Clutter and items kept out of obligation can hinder positive energy flow. Gifts and keepsakes tied to painful memories should also be released. Non-working clocks and electronics symbolize paused progress and create clutter. Decluttering your living space promotes a lighter atmosphere and mental clarity.
Saudi Arabia has launched a new digital Package Visa initiative. This program integrates tourist visa applications directly into travel bookings. Eligible travelers can now book flights, accommodation, and visas together. This simplifies the visitor journey and enhances travel experiences. The initiative aims to make visiting Saudi Arabia more accessible.
New York attracts many seeking careers and a faster lifestyle. High daily expenses and constant pressure can make city life overwhelming. Young professionals often thrive in New York's energetic and demanding environment. However, changing priorities lead many to seek suburban or more affordable locations later. Florida and Texas are popular for their tax advantages and lower living costs.
An Indian traveler shared her Sri Lankan experience, noting civic habits and infrastructure. She observed well-maintained roads and polite drivers during her week-long journey. Beaches were notably clean, and public spaces were well-organized for visitors. This observation sparked discussions about India's own civic responsibilities and improvements. Many social media users related to her experiences and shared similar observations.
A US citizen arrested in a terror case seeks court permission to cook his own food. He has been on a hunger strike for over 50 days due to prison food. Matthew Aaron VanDyke claims jail meals are unsuitable for his dietary habits. His family is willing to cover all expenses for his personal cooking setup. The court has sought a response from Tihar Jail authorities.
Peekaboo teaches babies object permanence and that loved ones always return. This game builds secure attachment and helps children navigate future separations. It also serves as a baby's first social interaction, teaching connection rules. Babies enjoy peekaboo due to its optimal surprise level and sense of mastery. Parents can foster development through engaging and joyful interactions without special toys.
Kylian Mbapp's journey from a young fan to a football star offers parenting insights. Parents should recognize and support children's interests and passions early on. Discipline and dedication are crucial alongside natural talent for sustained success. Role models can inspire positive development without creating undue pressure. Believing in children's dreams fosters confidence and encourages their best efforts.
Eggshells offer gardeners valuable calcium and trace minerals for soil enrichment. These shells can also improve compost quality and provide a barrier against garden pests. Furthermore, eggshells serve as biodegradable seed starters for young plants. Crushed eggshells can also act as a decorative mulch for exposed garden soil. Reusing eggshells promotes sustainable gardening and reduces household waste effectively.
A viral post contrasts Norwegian kindergartens focused on outdoor play with Indian early education emphasizing academics. The author observed young Indian children engaged in academic tasks instead of experiencing childhood. Many social media users agreed, lamenting the loss of childhood for Indian youth. Some commenters suggested parenting styles contribute significantly to this trend. The discussion highlights differing views on what constitutes a proper childhood experience.
Choosing a baby's name is one of the most meaningful decisions for any parent. While some names are selected because they sound beautiful or honour family traditions, others are cherished for the powerful stories and emotions they carry. Names that symbolise new life, hope, renewal and fresh beginnings have remained popular across cultures because they reflect optimism and the promise of a bright future.
The Karnataka Philately Passport offers travellers a unique way to document their journeys. This collector's booklet allows users to collect special pictorial cancellations from various destinations. Demand for the limited-edition passports has surged, with many queuing early for them. The trend combines sightseeing with a fun treasure hunt for authentic experiences. This modern approach to philately is attracting a younger audience to collect memories.
Pigeons appear to pose no threat until they start building a nest on a balcony. They create lots of mess with feathers, droppings, nesting material, and constant cooing. However, you need to consider using humane ways that will discourage pigeons from settling on your balcony without doing them any harm. Luckily, just a couple of changes to your balcony can help you get rid of pigeons without hurting them and letting them find a safe place to roost. Here are seven tips on how to scare pigeons aw
A woman's early morning walk in Bengaluru has sparked a city-wide conversation about safety. She shared her comfort walking alone while the skies remained dark at 5 a.m. This experience contrasted with the anxiety she felt walking in her hometown. Many women expressed similar feelings of fear when walking alone or in crowds. Internet users agreed Bengaluru is a good city to live in, apart from traffic concerns.
Farah Khan's parenting stance on her teenage daughters sparked online debate. Research suggests clear boundaries, explained with warmth, foster better teen decision-making. However, overly rigid rules can lead adolescents to hide information from parents. The key lies in the parent-child relationship and open communication. Trust and respect within boundaries help teenagers make sound choices.
Persistent mouth breathing during sleep can signal underlying breathing issues in children. This habit may restrict airways and impact sleep quality and oxygen delivery. Chronic mouth breathing can also affect facial and dental development over time. Breathing problems during sleep may manifest as daytime behavioral and learning difficulties. Seeking professional help and monitoring sleep habits are crucial for early intervention.
India's first bullet train section will begin phased passenger operations by August 2027. This significant milestone promises faster domestic travel and improved connectivity for travelers. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor uses Japanese Shinkansen technology and is partially funded by JICA. Hyderabad is designated as a key junction for three proposed high-speed rail corridors. These future corridors will connect Hyderabad to Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
Understanding your sofa's fabric type is crucial for safe cleaning. Always vacuum thoroughly before applying any cleaning solution to remove loose dirt. Test cleaners on a hidden area to prevent fabric damage and color fading. Blot spills immediately and allow the sofa to dry completely after cleaning. Regular maintenance like weekly vacuuming will keep your sofa looking fresh.
Why do I have to sleep at 9? But why can't I wear this? How do you know that's true? I don't agree.If you're a parent, you've probably heard some version of these questions almost daily. And if you're being honest, you've likely answered at least one of them with, Because I said so. For a lot of parents, constant questioning feels like arguing. It can seem like kids today just don't listen the way earlier generations did.Most of us grew up believing good children obeyed without asking too many q
Lionel Messi shares parenting insights from his own family life. He embraces his sons' unique personalities, avoiding comparisons between them. Messi emphasizes passing down strong values like respect and humility to his children. He prioritizes normal family routines and emotional presence over fame. Children learn best from observation and grounded parental actions.
Frontier families relied on practical tools for daily survival and self-sufficiency. Essential items like axes and saws built homes and provided fuel for warmth. Cast-iron skillets and Dutch ovens enabled versatile cooking over open fires. Sewing kits and farming tools ensured clothing and food supplies were maintained. Water buckets and preservation containers were vital for life's necessities.
Jungle safaris are meant only for the responsible tourists. For those who dont believe in following rules or discipline, safaris should not be on their bucket list because the first lesson every safari guide tells is simple: the rules must be followed.
Contrary to popular belief, confident and self-reliant children aren't raised through strict rules or constant praise. They grow up in homes where they're trusted with small responsibilities, allowed to make mistakes and encouraged to find their own way. Here are seven everyday habits that quietly shape independent children.
Cleaning bathrooms at the right time ensures better hygiene and effectiveness. Morning is often ideal after family members finish their ablutions. Allow excess moisture to dissipate before applying cleaning products. Evening cleaning can prevent overnight accumulation of spots and residue. Proper ventilation after cleaning aids drying and prevents mold growth.
But in general, flours that are less processed and naturally higher in fibre, protein and essential minerals tend to offer more nutritional value than highly refined ones. Here's how some of India's most commonly used flours compare.
Every parent has heard it at least once. I'm bored. And usually, the response is the same. Someone hands over a phone. A cartoon is switched on. A tablet appears. Within seconds, the complaint is gone.But what if boredom isn't the problem? What if it's actually something children need more of?That's the idea tennis legend Novak Djokovic touched on in a recent podcast, talking about raising his two children. The 24-time Grand Slam champion shared a way of thinking about parenting that feels almos
The veteran actor attended the Mumbai premiere of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey over the weekend, and while plenty of celebrities showed up in glamorous outfits, it was Dimple's quietly powerful look that stayed with people. Dressed in a handcrafted black ensemble by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, she reminded everyone that personal style isn't about wearing what's fashionable - it's about wearing what feels completely you.

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