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.

Karnataka Bandh 2026 will be observed on August 13 from 6 am to 6 pm over the Cauvery water dispute and demands linked to the Mekedatu, Mahadayi and Kalasa-Banduri projects. Schools, offices and essential services are expected to remain open, while transport, shops and inter-state travel may face disruptions.

Ukraine has intensified long-range drone and missile strikes deep inside Russia, targeting oil infrastructure, defence facilities and air defences as Kyiv seeks to shift the wars dynamics. The campaign has strengthened Zelenskyys standing with Trump but faces limits, including Russian counterattacks, air-defence shortages, costly operations and uncertainty over Putins willingness to negotiate.

Surya Grahan kab lagega 2026, 12 August Solar Eclipse date, time, sutak kaal: The traditional rule is that Sutak is observed only when an eclipse is visible at the concerned location. As the August 12 solar eclipse will not be visible in Delhi or other checked Indian locations, Sutak is not applicable in India under the visibility-based traditional rule, including for children, elderly people and those who are unwell.

Arthur Conan Doyle brilliantly illustrates the significance of perception, suggesting it often outweighs the actual actions taken. His iconic character, Sherlock Holmes, epitomizes this notion through exceptional observational skills. As a Scottish author and physician, Doyle introduced timeless characters while also delving into the contentious realm of spiritualism, leaving behind a legacy that remains influential through 'The adventures of Sherlock Holmes'.

Indias recognition of heatwaves as a notified natural calamity could unlock dedicated disaster funds for states to strengthen heat action plans and protect vulnerable communities. Experts say the move can finance cooling shelters, water points, health preparedness and worker safeguards, while stressing the need for locally owned, well-funded and effectively implemented measures.

Heavy rain triggered a landslide in Mumbais Kurla area early Wednesday, with two people feared dead and six to eight others reportedly trapped. Rescue operations were underway at Gaushiya Chawl in Chirag Nagar, involving fire brigade, police, NDRF and civic teams. Two injured teenagers were admitted to Bhabha Hospital and remained stable.

Indian rice exporters face significant logistical challenges at Kandla port. Cargo clearance now extends to forty days, impacting perishable rice shipments. This congestion occurs while India holds substantial rice stocks and anticipates global demand. Container shortages further exacerbate issues for basmati and non-basmati rice exports. These disruptions are causing global non-basmati rice prices to increase.

Delhi-NCR weather today, August 12: On Wednesday, the skies over Delhi and the NCR are predicted to turn cloudy, bringing rain showers throughout the day. Noida and Ghaziabad might encounter substantial rainfall, potentially accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Meanwhile, areas like Faridabad and Gurgaon could see lighter, moderate rain. In Delhi, expect temperatures to fluctuate between a low of 29C and a high of 36C, with neighboring NCR cities experiencing similar conditions.

In a lovely private ceremony, Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez pledged their love for one another, with their five children by their side in Cascais. This momentous occasion marks one year since the couple publicly announced their engagement online. Ronaldo, a football legend, commemorated the event with a simple yet elegant post on Instagram, showcasing the enduring love he shares with Rodriguez.

An overloaded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba, killing at least fifteen people. Seventy-seven individuals were rescued and brought to a small island after the incident. Boats are now being dispatched to bring the survivors back to safety. An underwater team is conducting search and rescue operations on the vast lake. The ferry, which exceeded its carrying capacity, was reportedly ageing.

Brent crude futures were up 72 cents, or 0.81%, at $89.63, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 71 cents, or 0.85%, to $83.91.

President Trump undertook an unprecedented secret overseas trip using a decoy plane. He concealed his movements from officials and the press corps for security. Past presidents also made covert journeys to war zones for security reasons. These trips involved elaborate security measures and secrecy for the commander in chief. Such actions highlight the ongoing challenges of presidential security and transparency.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez have celebrated their love by marrying in a sweet ceremony in Cascais, Portugal. This special moment was shared with fans through a touching joint post on Instagram, attended by their five children, adding warmth to the intimate gathering. The couple's commitment comes amidst swirling rumors of a previous wedding in Madeira. Their love story began in Madrid while Rodriguez was part of the Gucci team.

The India Meteorological Department warns of extensive rainfall spanning numerous Indian states. On August 11, isolated regions of East Rajasthan may experience exceptionally heavy downpours. The Himalayan regions and Northeast are projected to see significant rainfall throughout the week, while thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds may affect other areas. Residents in susceptible locales should stay vigilant and prepared.

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.

A US judge has dismissed securities and wire fraud charges against Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar, ending the criminal case over alleged bribes tied to Indian solar contracts. The dismissal with prejudice bars the government from reviving the charges, potentially clearing the way for Adani Group to expand in America.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran has discussed the possibility of stepping down ahead of the August 18 AGM, amid uncertainty over his reappointment as a director and tensions with Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata. The suspension of Sir Ratan Tata Trust has further complicated voting rights, quorum and the meetings legality.

Thematic funds focus on investing in firms associated with particular long-term trends, aiming for potential alpha returns. They entail a greater concentration risk when compared to traditional diversified equity mutual funds. Therefore, investors must carefully time their entries and exits. It

Shiprocket is gearing up to secure

Retail investor activity in equity funds dipped by almost fifteen percent in July, indicating a cautious approach towards market trends. Conversely, systematic investment plans enjoyed positive growth, affirming their importance in the investment landscape. Debt funds welcomed impressive inflows, bolstering overall industry assets. Additionally, liquid and overnight funds attracted major corporate treasury allocations at the quarter's start, with mid- and small-cap equity categories still favore

A notable shift is on the horizon as shares from forty-five newly floated companies are set to become tradable shortly. The unlocking, amounting to approximately seven point six billion dollars, is expected to happen from August twelfth through late September. While this gives promoters and anchor investors the chance to divest their previously locked holdings, it's essential to note that this event wont guarantee immediate selling.

'Deep State coup against Trump: Navarro makes explosive claim, cites newly revealed classified docs

Wall Street closed lower as investors grew pessimistic about Middle East stability. Amazon and Alphabet stocks dipped, impacting major indices like the S

A low-pressure area is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal soon. This system will bring very heavy rain to several south Bengal districts. Coastal districts like North and South 24 Parganas will see significant showers. Heavy rain is forecast for other districts until August fifteenth. North Bengal will also experience heavy rain from August fourteenth to seventeenth.

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission of India to furnish data. This data concerns the number of appeals disposed of by tribunals in West Bengal. The court emphasized the importance of seeing the progress of appeals filed. Grievances about denial of public distribution system benefits must go to the high court. The primary issue for the court remains the quantum of disposals by tribunals.

India faces Sri Lanka in a Test series with no current player knowing defeat. The team's bowling attack shows significant inexperience in Jasprit Bumrah's absence. Batting also appears shaky despite Shubman Gill's recovery and Yashasvi Jaiswal's hunger. This series is crucial for India's World Test Championship qualification hopes. Victory is not guaranteed, and defeat remains a distinct possibility.

Tamil Nadu's assembly passed a resolution against the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test. The state reiterated its long-held stance against the examination, citing its negative impact. This test has diverted students' focus from school curriculum to coaching centers. The resolution urges the central government to abolish NEET for undergraduate medical admissions. Tamil Nadu proposes admissions based on Class 12 examination marks.

Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee has voiced significant worry over soaring inflation, recognizing it as the foremost challenge facing the economy today. While he deems the labor market stable, he doesn't classify it as vigorous. Meanwhile, traders are weighing the possibility of a rate hike in September, and experts expect consumer inflation data to indicate an uptick.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced the cancellation of the 14th JPSC Civil Services exam. He assured that two other JPSC examinations would also be cancelled by the government. Protesting students had demanded the cancellation of the 14th JPSC examination for some time. The Chief Minister accused the BJP of instigating students and spreading conspiracies. Student protests continued in Ranchi while the government promised reforms.

NDA MPs and Union ministers welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with waving national flags and energetic slogans. Subsequently, they gathered to protest outside Parliament's main gate against police actions in Jharkhand. Accusations flew towards Rahul Gandhi for sidestepping debates concerning student protests, while opposition INDIA bloc MPs organized a separate rally on the same grounds.

Social and welfare ministries have seen many secretary changes over five years. Strategic and security portfolios like home and defence show greater continuity. The education ministry has had three secretaries since 2021. Minority affairs ministry is now with its sixth secretary since 2021. Health and family welfare ministry has seen four different secretaries.

Indigenous unmanned systems will be showcased for the Indian Air Force next month. Long-range systems and swarm drones are a special focus for this event. The air force leadership will examine drones with over 1,000 km range capabilities. Expendable drones for surveillance and intelligence gathering will also be displayed. Logistics drones for casualty evacuation and cargo delivery are also expected.

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.

The Calcutta High Court granted interim protection from police action to Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee. Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya heard Banerjee's plea seeking the quashing of three registered FIRs. The court has fixed August 25 for passing its final order on the petition. Banerjee's lawyer requested and received directions for police to supply FIR copies. This interim protection shields the Diamond Harbour MP from coercive police measures.

Hundreds of trucks are stranded on National Highway 202 due to group blockades. Essential commodity prices have increased by 140 percent in Manipur. Drivers have been stranded for over twenty days, appealing for safe passage. Initial talks between the government and the United Naga Council were cordial. The Naga group will continue blockades until their demands are met.

Youth unemployment in India remains a significant concern, with joblessness rates increasing. Female youth unemployment has sharply risen to 19.6 percent, indicating a growing disparity. The gender gap in labour force participation has also widened considerably across many states. Twelve states and union territories are reporting unemployment rates above the national average. Overall labour force participation has slipped to 40.7 percent as female engagement declines.

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.

Karnataka's Chief Minister will meet ministers and experts on Wednesday. They will discuss the Cauvery Water Management Authority's new water release order. The authority directed Karnataka to release 12,000 cusecs to Tamil Nadu. The state cabinet will convene on Thursday to further deliberate the issue. Pro-Kannada organizations have been asked to withdraw their proposed bandh.

The Supreme Court ruled insider trading laws are breached even with minimal profit. It overturned a tribunal order exonerating Tara Jewels chairman and daughters. The court stated possession of unpublished price sensitive information is sufficient for violation. Trades made while possessing such information are presumed motivated by it. SEBI's penalties were upheld, though one was reduced.

India's net direct tax collections surged 23.09 percent to 8.11 lakh crore as of August 10. Non-corporate tax collections rose significantly, reaching 5.07 lakh crore from 4.11 lakh crore a year ago. Corporate tax collections also climbed to 2.70 lakh crore, showing a 19.83 percent increase. Securities transaction tax collections delivered a strong performance, rising by 51 percent to 33,823.74 crore. Gross direct tax collections increased by 19.

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.