The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
In a significant leap for military technology, the US Navy is evaluating a powerful long-range air-to-air missile that can effectively engage targets beyond 465 kilometers. Its design allows it to seamlessly integrate into the stealth capabilities of fighter jets like the F-35 and F-22. This missile aims to bolster naval defenses against remote aerial attacks, aligning with the Pentagon's commitment to developing advanced long-range weaponry.
Veteran Indian leg-spinner Karn Sharma announced his retirement from all cricket formats. His final professional game will be on Tuesday, August 25, concluding a long career. Sharma expressed gratitude to institutions and people who supported his cricketing journey. He achieved significant success, winning four IPL titles with different franchises. Sharma will now be available for coaching opportunities after his playing days.
Grasim Industries anticipates reaching Rs 2 lakh crore revenue by FY27. This growth stems from its diverse businesses including cement and financial services. UltraTech Cement capacity has surpassed 200 million tonnes per annum. Birla Opus paints business secured a significant market share within two years.
Workers in China have completed a 21-day operation to replace 104 cutting tools on a giant tunnel boring machine deep beneath the seabed. The 16.18-km Jintang tunnel will connect the Zhoushan islands with Chinas high-speed rail network and become the worlds longest undersea high-speed rail tunnel.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticised the Samajwadi Party's agenda. He claimed the opposition party neglected the needs of the poor. Adityanath announced increased benefits for mid-day meal cooks in government schools. He stated his government prioritises the state's development and public safety. The Chief Minister vowed to permanently eliminate the Samajwadi Party in upcoming elections.
Posters portraying Rahul Gandhi as Batman appeared outside Congress headquarters. Gandhi previously joked about being Batman during an Instagram session with students. He participated in protests and staged a sit-in demanding an FIR. Delhi Police registered a formal FIR under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. A Supreme Court committee will investigate allegations of police excesses and protester violence.
Anand Mahindra recently praised Udaipurs Old City, highlighting its narrow lanes, cleanliness and old-world charm. Founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur is known as the Venice of the East and is surrounded by the Aravallis. Rajasthan Tourism highlights attractions including Lake Pichola, City Palace, Monsoon Palace and Jaisamand Lake. Mahindra believes the historic city deserves attention comparable to Europes medieval towns.
India's construction equipment industry anticipates single-digit growth this financial year. Rising steel and bitumen prices are significantly impacting project economics. Geopolitical uncertainty and execution challenges also moderate industry expansion. Domestic sales saw a decline while exports demonstrated strong global competitiveness. The sector faces moderated fund disbursements and delayed contractor payments.
Shubman Gill and Devdutt Padikkal built a strong partnership for India. They added 120 runs for the third wicket alliance. India reached 187 for three at tea on the opening day. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal departed in the first session. Rishabh Pant joined Padikkal at the crease before tea.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticised Rahul Gandhi's recent interaction with students. Fadnavis called Gandhi's stance hypocritical for opposing the Women's Reservation Bill. He stated that Gandhi's words do not match his actions regarding women's rights. The Chief Minister also labeled the Congress party as directionless and full of loudmouths. He claimed the party has lost touch with the ground realities.
In 2014, NASA launched a group of twenty mice to the International Space Station for groundbreaking research. Remarkably, the young mice exhibited coordinated circling behavior just two weeks after their arrival. In contrast, older mice showed little interest in this peculiar behavior, a mystery that intrigued scientists. This phenomenon could be connected to factors like stress, motivation, or the vestibular system.
Senior CPI(M) leaders faced a violent attack in Kallakurichi district on August 21. An eight-member gang assaulted the leaders and damaged their vehicle near Ulundurpet. The party alleges the attack was linked to their protest against fund misappropriation. CPI(M) leaders received medical treatment and have returned home.
Wrap aluminium foil around your plants: Gardeners can use reflective aluminium foil around young plants to help deter aphids. The reflective surface can interfere with how some flying insects locate plants, and research suggests this method is most effective when used around small vegetable plants. However, tightly wrapping foil around plant stems can restrict growth and potentially damage the plant. The technique is best used as a supplementary pest-management method rather than a standalone so
Mary Oliver, an American poet, found wonder in nature and life's small details. Her poetry explored profound questions about living a meaningful existence. Oliver urged readers to maintain curiosity and personal accountability for their lives. She believed one could balance responsibility with joy and wonder. Her work continues to inspire readers to live fully and attentively.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal will visit Japan from August 24 to 27. He leads India's largest business delegation to the country for discussions. Meetings will focus on semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and start-ups. The minister will also promote investment and meet business leaders in Nagoya's auto and steel industries. Osaka will host roadshows showcasing manufacturing and clean energy opportunities.
Nestled beneath the waves near John Brewer Reef in Australia lies an innovative Coral Greenhouse sculpture crafted from pH-neutral cement, designed to foster marine life. Observations reveal a remarkable increase in fish populations since its installation, highlighting its role in raising awareness and securing funding for essential reef conservation efforts. This project exemplifies proactive measures against pressing environmental challenges.
India must defeat Argentina by a significant margin to keep semifinal hopes alive. Their qualification also depends on the Netherlands beating England in another match. A victory over Argentina is crucial for India to gain points in the standings. India needs a substantial goal difference swing to advance. The team must convert possession and chances into goals against Argentina.
Earning his Test cap, Saransh Jain chose to refine his red-ball techniques over pursuing IPL roles. Chandrakant Pandit, his coach, admired Jain's relentless pursuit of bowling skill enhancement. Jain's exceptional around-the-wicket technique caught the attention of Pandit and other spinners. Alongside his bowling, Jain cultivated his batting to fit the Indian selection requirements, illustrating his unwavering dedication and passion for cricket.
Researchers in China found a king cobra nest containing 72 eggs, nearly twice the number usually recorded for the species. Two adult cobras also guarded the nest, although scientists could not identify their sex. The discovery adds rare information about king cobra nesting behaviour in Yunnan, where three nests were documented.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged on Sunday that his country's citizens face many problems, after the United States launched a new wave of sanctions seeking to further isolate its economy. His comments came after the United States vowed last week to bring about the collapse of the Iranian regime through a newly announced sanctions campaign, nearly six months after the start of their war.
Quote of the Day by Fyodor Dostoyevsky: Fyodor Dostoyevsky's profound observations illuminate the indispensable role of self-respect in fostering healthy relationships. To truly embody self-respect is to recognize and embrace one's own worth, independent of external approval. This principle not only demands setting firm boundaries but also disallows constant disrespect from others. By cultivating this internal standard, individuals can transform their self-perception and assert their value in ev
On March 16, 1926, Robert Goddard made history by launching the first liquid-propellant rocket from a serene farm in Worcester, Massachusetts. This momentous rocket flight lasted twenty seconds, ascending to an impressive height of forty-one feet. Eventually, the New York Times acknowledged its previous mockery of Goddard's innovative theories. His groundbreaking contributions laid the foundation for what would become a NASA space flight center.
Albert Camus, a renowned French-Algerian author, delved into the complexities of existence and the quest for meaning amidst chaos. His philosophy underscores the conflict between human aspirations and a universe that often appears indifferent. Camus championed embracing life's uncertainties with bravery and intent, asserting that recognizing the shadows in life enriches our understanding of its light. His timeless wisdom inspires the pursuit of value through our choices and connections.
Industrialist Gautam Adani met Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar for an hour. Sources described the meeting as a courtesy visit while returning to the airport. The meeting occurred amid a proposed tunnel road project for which Adani Enterprises is the lowest bidder. The BJP criticised the Congress for perceived double standards regarding the industrialist.
In the remarkable year of 1985, astronauts faced a daunting challenge when they crafted makeshift tools from spare materials aboard their spacecraft to repair a satellite. Their first attempt, an unplanned spacewalk to activate the Syncom IV-3 satellite, didn't succeed, yet ingenuity prevailed as the satellite was ultimately restored. This incident showcases NASA's creative problem-solving using what they had on hand.
A Kerala consumer commission has ordered a builder to pay Rs 25 lakh after finding serious defects in a residential house. The compensation includes Rs 20 lakh towards repair costs and damages, along with Rs 5 lakh for mental agony and inconvenience. The builder allegedly failed to use quality materials and complete the work as agreed. Expert inspections found substandard construction and several defects after possession. The commission held that the builder's failure amounted to deficiency in s
During a virtual event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated five noteworthy expansion projects, collectively valued at nearly Rs 3,500 crore, aimed at fostering industrial advancement in West Bengal. The initiative will see Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers scale up their operations, alongside the introduction of two additional facilities for Yantra India Ltd. These projects are expected to deliver significant employment opportunities and bolster support for supporting industries th
Elias Howe's journey in the invention of the sewing machine was marked by challenges, as he faced fierce opposition from tailors and struggled with funding. Traveling to England in search of financial support led to a contentious legal battle over his creation. Ultimately, Howe triumphed in court, asserting his rights to the design, a conflict that birthed America's first patent pool, a foundational model that shapes technology licensing paradigms today.
Indian skipper Shubman Gill achieved 3,000 Test runs on Sunday. He reached this milestone during the second Test against Sri Lanka. Gill has scored 3,004 runs in 43 matches at an average of 43.53. He is the fourth-youngest Indian batter to achieve this significant feat. India was 88/2 at the end of the first session.
During the Apollo 12 mission, astronaut Alan Bean mistakenly aimed the color television camera at the sun, leading to overheating and the loss of live color transmissions from the moon. Although this incident curtailed real-time broadcasts, a wealth of still photos and 16mm film preserved the lunar journey. As a result, NASA implemented updated handling procedures for cameras in subsequent space explorations.
Anti-drug agencies will launch a year-long national enforcement drive starting September. This initiative includes apprehending absconding offenders and inspecting medical shops for drug diversion. Special drives will target foreigners and focus on preparing dossiers against fugitives. The plan also involves awareness programs and coordinated checks at all entry points. These campaigns aim to strengthen collaboration and achieve a drugs-free India.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated five expansion projects for GRSE and YIL. These initiatives aim to significantly boost shipbuilding and defence manufacturing capabilities in West Bengal. GRSE will develop three riverside sites along the Hooghly river for shipbuilding and repairs. YIL's Metal and Steel Factory will enhance indigenous metallurgical output with new forging presses.
Indian Bank expects its gold loan book to surpass Rs 1.5 lakh crore this financial year. This growth will be driven by increased loan volumes and robust demand for gold loans. The bank also reported significant CASA deposit growth in the first quarter. It has successfully raised USD 400 million through overseas bond issuance. Further foreign currency inflows are anticipated from FCNR(B) deposits.
During the Gemini X mission in 1966, astronaut Michael Collins faced setbacks when he lost both his camera and a scientific experiment during a spacewalk. These mishaps highlighted the challenges astronauts faced with the nascent technology of spacewalks. However, mission control viewed these incidents as valuable lessons, leading to advancements in astronaut equipment and procedures in subsequent missions.
Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda has clarified his statements regarding Sajjan Kumar's death, denying he ever referred to the former MP as a role model. He underscored his family's long-standing opposition to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, firmly reiterating their commitment to advocating for the rights and justice of the Sikh community. Hooda's remarks come in response to intense backlash from multiple political factions.
In 2002, the USS Spiegel Grove, a decommissioned Navy ship, was purposely sunk near Key Largo to form an artificial reef. This innovative action has since attracted countless species of marine life, enhancing the habitat and relieving stress on natural ecosystems. The influx of divers has also stimulated the local economy, making the Spiegel Grove a cherished spot for divers and a testament to effective ocean preservation efforts.
A techie opened up about how she left three jobs without an offer in hand and finding her next role within roughly a month each time. She said the decisions were accompanied by fear and repeated self-doubt, but also helped her reassess her career. Her experience sparked debate online over financial security, seniority and how recruiters interpret employment gaps or resignations without offers.
Unexpected challenges often create pressure to compromise on important matters. The idiom 'hold your ground' advises standing firm in beliefs and decisions. This principle applies to professional and personal situations requiring resilience. Staying steady under pressure prevents regrettable reactive choices and builds respect. Calm composure while maintaining your position often leads to successful outcomes.
Married at 15 and widowed at 18 with a young daughter, A Lalitha refused to let social expectations decide her future. With her fathers support, she resumed her education and chose engineering so she could become financially independent while raising her daughter. In 1940, she entered the all-male College of Engineering, Guindy, after authorities approved womens admission. She later became Indias first female engineer, breaking barriers in education and engineering.
Thirteen people have died from consuming spurious liquor in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district. Two more victims succumbed to their injuries while receiving medical treatment on Sunday. Officials confirmed sixty-seven individuals consumed the toxic methanol-laced liquor. Police have arrested thirteen of the twenty-one accused individuals in connection with the tragedy.
A retired Boeing 737 now rests on the seafloor off Vancouver Island. This aircraft was transformed into an artificial reef by Canada. The Xihuw Reef attracts numerous fish and marine invertebrates. Divers explore the sunken jet, which serves as a popular dive destination. This human-made structure has become a thriving marine habitat.
Apple's next iPhone event is anticipated for Wednesday, September ninth. Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro may commence on Saturday, September twelfth. The new iPhone models are expected to be released on Friday, September eighteenth. This event could also unveil Apple's first foldable phone and new Apple Watch. These dates are based on Apple's historical launch patterns and are not confirmed.
Scientists built oyster reefs in Georgia's Savannah River to reduce wave energy. These reefs lessened wave impact on the shoreline by as much as forty percent. The spat-on-shell approach proved to be an inexpensive method for reef creation. However, wave attenuation effectiveness varies significantly with submersion duration. This nature-based defense offers a promising, adaptable solution for coastal erosion.
An Indian military expert stated Iran prepared for war with the US for decades. Iran developed a decentralized command structure and attritional warfare capabilities. The country's mountainous terrain presents significant challenges for ground invasions. Iran focused on defending the Strait of Hormuz using speed boats and missiles. This long-term preparation has prevented Iran from being decimated by adversaries.
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has become Indias first metro organisation to receive ISO 55001:2024 certification for its asset management system, covering Mumbai Metro Line-3. The certification marks DMRCs shift towards risk-based, lifecycle-oriented asset management and strengthens its ambitions to expand its operations and maintenance expertise beyond Delhi-NCR.
A total of 20 IPOs are on investors radar next week, including fresh issues and upcoming listings across the mainboard and SME segments. Symbiotec Pharmalab, Tempsens Instruments, Lumino Industries and Kwick Forensic Solutions command the highest grey market premiums, with implied listing gains ranging from 107% to 56.7%.
In an effort to lower urban heat, Phoenix tested innovative reflective pavement coatings on its roads, revealing that treated asphalt kept cooler than traditional options. Despite this advantage, the reflective nature led to intensified heat for pedestrians in the vicinity. Further complicating matters, the effectiveness of these coatings decreased with time due to dirt and degradation, driving cities to consider these factors for enhanced comfort levels for their residents.
Indian FMCG companies are experiencing significant leadership changes across major firms. Several top executives have transitioned, impacting company strategies and market positions. These changes occur during a period of uneven consumer demand and rising competition. Companies are adapting to evolving consumer preferences and increasing input costs. New leaders aim to drive growth and navigate a dynamic business landscape.
In 1984, honeybees traveled aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger for a unique student experiment. These bees successfully built honeycomb and laid eggs in zero gravity. The mission demonstrated that basic colony processes continued in the weightless environment. This decades-old experiment remains relevant for future long-duration space missions. It showed that some instincts, like working together, persist even without gravity.
A post on X has highlighted Yotuh Energy, a company co-founded by IIT Delhi biotechnology graduate Shaivee Malik, which has developed a battery-powered refrigeration system for transport vehicles. The technology works independently of truck engines, can run for six to eight hours and is claimed to cut refrigeration costs by 75%, while also reducing diesel use and carbon emissions.

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