The Economic Times

A human rights official claims Bangladesh faces a severe economic crisis and people want Sheikh Hasina back. He stated that millions of supporters await her return to the country by December. The official alleged the nation's GDP growth has sharply slowed, impacting jobs significantly. Many citizens are comparing the current government with Hasina's previous administration. India's Ministry of External Affairs distanced itself from the press interaction.

Student leader Devendra Nath Mahato denied ending his hunger strike over recruitment exam issues. He stated his fast continues, only consuming water on advice from Sonam Wangchuk. Protesters reiterated Mahato has not withdrawn his protest, which continues until demands are met. The Jharkhand government initiated talks with protesting students regarding exam irregularities. A five-member delegation was invited to meet Chief Minister Hemant Soren for discussions.

Kazakhstan is expanding its transport infrastructure to link Europe and Asia. New highway construction and corridor expansions aim to boost transit capacity significantly. These projects will create thousands of jobs and improve national connectivity. The nation is also developing a digital transport ecosystem for freight carriers. Kazakhstan is simultaneously positioning itself as a leading Eurasian artificial intelligence economy.

Sometimes, LED bulbs can stop working early because of a single diode failure. A clever DIY tip involves using aluminium foil to circumvent the dud component, temporarily getting the bulb to light up again. However, professionals warn that this is merely a short-term fix and poses safety hazards. For a safer and more dependable long-term option, it's best to replace the bulb entirely.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted Africa as a priority partner. He stated Africa's due place is essential for a multipolar world order. The minister expressed India's commitment to strengthening ties with the African Union. He looked forward to reconvening the deferred India-Africa Forum Summit. Human resource development remains central to this vital engagement.

Bangladesh's foreign ministry expressed outrage over Sheikh Hasina's media interaction in New Delhi. The ministry stated this event was an affront to Bangladesh's sovereignty and national dignity. Dhaka deeply regrets India permitted this public event despite prior concerns conveyed. Hasina announced her decision to return to Bangladesh in December, facing potential consequences. Bangladesh desires a constructive relationship with India based on mutual respect.

Jharkhand CID has arrested five more individuals in the JPSC exam irregularities case. This brings the total number of arrests in the ongoing investigation to nineteen. Chief Minister Hemant Soren briefed the Governor on the alleged irregularities and ongoing protests. The government assures students that their concerns will be seriously considered. The ruling JMM supports the aspirants and promises swift government action.

The Trump administration has refunded approximately $100 billion in tariffs. This action follows a Supreme Court decision that invalidated many of his duties. Importers who paid these tariffs have now received their refunds. The administration collected about $166 billion after invoking a specific economic powers act. President Trump continues to explore new tariff strategies despite these challenges.

A Salmonella outbreak has sickened 345 people across twenty-seven states in the United States. This widespread contamination has been linked to jalapeo peppers imported from Mexico. Thirty-six individuals have required hospitalization due to the bacterial infection, while no fatalities have occurred. Food safety agencies are actively investigating the source and distribution of the affected produce. Restaurants like Chipotle and QDOBA have already changed their suppliers to mitigate risks.

Abdul El-Sayed won Michigan's Democratic Senate primary, setting up a key general election contest. He will face Republican Mike Rogers in a swing state race. Democrats aim to unify behind El-Sayed after a divisive primary battle. Republicans are attacking El-Sayed as too extreme for the state. This election is crucial for Democrats seeking Senate control.

President Trump stated he prefers a deal with Iran to avoid conflict. He claimed Iran requested talks after the United States prepared for a major strike. The US president reiterated that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons. He also compared US actions in Iran to those in Venezuela. Trump suggested Iran would be wise to reach an agreement soon.

US authorities are investigating a close call involving Marine One and a passenger jet. The incident occurred above Washington on August 4th, with air traffic control involved. White House officials stated President Trump was never in any danger during the flight. Safety regulations require significant separation between aircraft in this airspace. The NTSB is reviewing the reported loss of separation event.

The Cockroach Janta Party will announce its future strategy on Thursday. This announcement follows a two-day strategy meeting in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The group will function as a pressure group for institutional accountability and neutrality. Discussions also covered unemployment and strengthening state presence nationwide. The movement's mentor, Sonam Wangchuk, will continue to offer guidance.

Gurgaon is under a yellow alert today as moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to hit the area. Following previous widespread showers that led to traffic disruptions and significant waterlogging in Delhi and NCR, residents should brace for more rainfall. The monsoon conditions are still active, with various districts in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh facing orange warnings.

An oil tanker reported hearing two explosions while transiting the Hormuz Strait. The incident occurred approximately ten miles southeast of Kumzar, Oman. Maritime authorities confirmed the crew and vessel are safe and sound. No environmental damage has been reported following the explosions. Iran and Oman are currently holding talks to manage this key waterway.

Major Wall Street financial firms faced sophisticated cyberattacks recently. Hackers used phone calls to trick employees into granting access. Several large hedge funds and private equity firms were targeted by these attempts. Point72 Asset Management confirmed an attack but stated no customer data was stolen. Global companies are now battling a surge in AI-powered cyber threats.

The RBI kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% for the fourth straight policy review, retained its neutral stance, raised its FY27 growth forecast to 6.7%, and lowered the inflation projection to 5%. It also announced revised loan pricing norms, plans to resume urban cooperative bank licences, and expressed confidence in India's economic resilience despite global uncertainties.

Leonardo DiCaprio and biologist Wes Sechrest met with the Amazon-founding billionaire Bezos and his wife, former TV news reporter and host Lauren Snchez Bezos in 2021.

New research suggests posture can influence emotions and decisions. Sitting upright led to more positive feelings and better risk-taking. Participants in the study did not realize their posture was being manipulated. This study aimed to address concerns raised by earlier posture research. Findings may have implications for everyday environments and workplace ergonomics.

Quote of the day by Mother Teresa describes joy as an active force rather than a passive feeling. Joy can inspire gratitude, strengthen resilience, deepen relationships and encourage compassion. It can make people more willing to notice others and respond to their needs. Perhaps that is why the message remains relevant across generations. Joy does not require perfect circumstances. It requires attention to what is meaningful.

Brain motivation: Researchers identified orexin neurons as key to sustained motivation during demanding tasks. These brain cells help maintain goal-directed behavior when increased effort is required. Studies with genetically modified rats demonstrated orexin neurons' direct influence on motivation levels. Activity in these neurons increased with anticipated rewards and required effort.

Quote of the day by Jude Law focuses on the place of family in a person's life. Law said success and life would not have value without his wife and children beside him. The quote explains why career goals, money and recognition can lose meaning when relationships are ignored. It also offers lessons about family, priorities, work, happiness and finding meaning beyond professional achievements.

Quote of the Day by Joan of Arc connects courage with action and faith with responsibility. When something matters, the first step may be difficult. Fear may remain. Doubts may continue. But taking that step can create momentum that was impossible while standing still. Sometimes the answer does not arrive before the journey begins. Sometimes the path becomes visible only after someone has the courage to walk it.

In 1909, a Black American entrepreneur, Garrett Morgan, was experimenting with a liquid to reduce friction from sewing machine needles when he noticed that it could straighten fibres. He tested the solution on animal fur and his own hair. The discovery led to a hair-refining business and became part of Morgans wider career as an inventor and entrepreneur.

Norse proverb of the day: A Norse saying teaches that our actions have lasting consequences. Mistreating others can damage trust and relationships significantly. Integrity and consistent good behavior build a strong reputation over time. Accountability for our choices is an essential part of life. Treating people with respect ensures future well-being and prevents regret.

Ancient Egyptian proverb of the day explains why balance between work and enjoyment matters in life. The saying from The Maxims of Ptahhotep teaches that spending every day working or worrying can remove happiness, while spending every day on fun can prevent responsibility, financial stability and a secure future.

World War II fluxgate magnetometer: A World War II device found new scientific purpose after the war. Oceanographers refitted the fluxgate magnetometer for seafloor magnetic anomaly measurements. These measurements revealed symmetrical patterns on either side of mid-ocean ridges. The magic profile provided strong evidence for seafloor spreading and plate tectonics.

The Rajya Sabha approved a bill to increase Supreme Court judges. This bill will replace the ordinance which previously raised the judge count. The passed bill was returned to Lok Sabha after its approval. Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated the bill improves judicial efficiency. The house adjourned for Thursday after the bill's passage.

The Lok Sabha approved the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill 2026, modernizing banking record laws for digital practices. Extensive studies confirm E20 fuel is safe for use, showing improved performance and reduced emissions. Electric vehicle penetration has significantly risen, driven by lower operational costs and zero tailpipe emissions. Over 4.6 lakh vehicles have been scrapped under the new policy, with discounts offered.

The Reserve Bank of India plans to standardize interest rate rules for all regulated entities. This new principle-based framework aims to increase transparency and ensure uniformity across lending. The proposed changes are unlikely to affect EMIs or bring NBFCs into the external benchmark regime. Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated this move will improve consumer protection and rationalise existing norms.

Foreign-invested ecommerce firms must register as exporter-on-record for export inventory. These companies can only procure and stock goods against confirmed export orders. Speculative stockpiling for future outbound shipping will not be allowed by the government. Indian sellers can access overseas markets by delegating export tasks to the exporter-on-record. This framework aims to boost India's export capabilities and ensure timely payments.

Quote of the Day by Tommy Lee Jones: Tommy Lee Jones quote, In the political world, the only position I have is voter. I'm not a spokesman for anything explores the importance of personal independence, individual responsibility, and the freedom to maintain ones own opinions. The quote suggests that people can participate in political life and make meaningful choices without being defined as representatives of a specific cause, group, or ideology. It highlights the value of thoughtful citizenship

J&K Police has announced a significant reward for information leading to the arrest of a terrorist. Mohammad Lateef Bhat is wanted for the killing of a policeman in Anantnag last month. Posters seeking reliable information about the suspect have been displayed across Kashmir. The police released photographs and CCTV footage of the 22-year-old accused. Bhat is a resident of Kulgam and allegedly shot the head constable on July 22.

The government is creating a customs playbook for key imported goods. This initiative aims to standardize the faceless customs regime across India. It will reduce disputes and speed up clearance times for businesses. The playbook will help companies utilize free trade agreement benefits effectively. This reform seeks to improve ease of doing business and trade efficiency.

Alarmed by the situation in Iran, UN rights chief Volker Turk highlighted the alarming execution rates, with over fifty-six individuals condemned on security charges since March. Most of these cases appear tied to recent civil unrest. Furthermore, drug offenses exacerbate the death penalty issue, while doubts linger about the integrity of trials and reports of torture in securing confessions.

The Delhi High Court has asked the government for its response on a plea. This plea seeks automatic tax deducted at source refunds for individuals not owing income tax. Currently, these individuals must file an income tax return to claim their refunds. The court is considering directing immediate processing of unclaimed TDS refunds up to 5,000. A permanent automatic TDS refund mechanism for future years is also being sought.

Today's Japanese Proverb of the Day brings a timeless lesson on anger, patience, emotional intelligence, and inner peace. The Japanese proverb, Fire is not extinguished by more fire, but by water. Anger, too, is never calmed by more anger, reminds us that calm responses solve conflicts better than angry reactions. Here is its deeper meaning, life lessons, and practical wisdom for stronger relationships and a more peaceful life.

American businesses added fewer jobs in July than experts had predicted, with private payrolls up by just 44,000 the weakest increase this year. Conversely, job switchers enjoyed the steepest wage hikes in almost a year, reflecting a resilient labor market driven by substantial demand. This moderation gives Federal Reserve officials the leeway to concentrate on inflation worries.

India's services sector expanded slowly in July, reaching a 53-month low. New business inflows moderated across domestic and international markets, impacting growth. Manufacturing activity also lost momentum, contributing to a composite PMI decline. Services firms remained optimistic about future business despite current slowdowns. Hiring showed a modest rebound as input cost inflation eased.

India's fertilizer production and imports have fallen sharply in the June quarter. This decline is due to inflated raw material prices caused by the West Asia conflict. Production of complex fertilizers dropped twenty-eight percent, and imports slipped forty-eight point five percent. Ammonia and sulphur prices have nearly doubled, making manufacturing and imports less viable. This situation raises concerns over nutrient availability for the ongoing crop sowing season.

NITI Aayog suggests a dedicated policy framework for India's growing ageing population. It calls for regulating the caregiving ecosystem and setting essential caregiving standards. The report proposes financial incentives and entrepreneurship opportunities for caregivers to boost scalability. It also recommends introducing care leave for employees supporting dependent parents. Establishing a National Caregiving Council will provide institutional leadership and coordination.

Do not judge your neighbor until you walk two moons in his moccasins is a powerful American proverb about empathy, patience and understanding. Explore the deeper life lessons from American proverb wisdom and discover why we should think twice before judging someone whose struggles, experiences and journey we may not fully understand.

Quote of the day by Dr. Seuss teaches us when a meaningful chapter closes, sadness may naturally come first. But with time, gratitude can join it. Instead of asking only why something had to end, we can also ask what made it worth having in the first place. That shiftfrom loss toward appreciationdoes not change the past. It changes how we carry it. And sometimes, that is enough to turn an ending from something we only mourn into something we can genuinely smile about.

The Kerala High Court has formed a six-member SIT to investigate Milma ghee procurement irregularities. This special team will probe alleged irregularities in the supply of Milma ghee to the Sabarimala temple. The SIT will be headed by Superintendent of Police MJ Sojan, who is already investigating another case. This officer is investigating the alleged criminal misappropriation of Adiya Sishtam Ghee proceeds.

Tamil Nadu's finance minister presented the 2026-27 budget, aiming for a $1.5 trillion economy by 2031. A new industrial policy will foster innovation and technology-driven growth across emerging sectors. The government allocated significant funds for industries and introduced AI-powered investment platforms. New industrial parks will be established in backward districts, and Thoothukudi will become a space zone. The budget also detailed plans for India's first AI and Innovation city, 'Arivagam'