The Economic Times

A viral claim about Ryszard Kapuscinski discovering early Homo skulls at Dmanisi in 1989 is debunked by scientific evidence. The site's significance stems from systematic excavations beginning in 1991, which unearthed a crucial lower jawbone, followed by famous skulls. These discoveries, dating back nearly two million years, have reshaped our understanding of early human evolution and diversity outside Africa, highlighting meticulous research over chance.

Nagaland State Lottery Sambad Dear Tuesday Weekly draw results for 23 June 2026 have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 Crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards. Full list of winning numbers here.

The Trinamool Congress is facing an internal revolt, prompting Mamata Banerjee's faction to submit a new list of office bearers to the Election Commission, solidifying her leadership. A breakaway group, claiming significant support, has declared its own parallel committee, citing the expiry of the previous one. Loyalists have vehemently dismissed the rebels' actions as having no legal standing within the party's framework.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is intensifying its protest demanding the Union Education Minister's resignation over alleged NEET-UG paper leaks. They've launched a diaper donation drive at Jantar Mantar, urging supporters to write their demands on diapers. The party also alleges police attempted to shrink their protest space. Students and various student organizations are participating, vowing to continue until accountability is achieved.

Sophie Adenot aurora photos: ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, currently on board the International Space Station, has shared photographs of an aurora display she described as the most spectacular the crew has witnessed during their mission. She said the light was so intense it illuminated the station in shades of green and exceeded her usual camera settings.

Italy is deepening its ties with India through cultural exchanges, highlighted by the 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues' exhibition in New Delhi. Featuring Botticelli's 'Madonna and Child' and ancient Indian sculptures, the show underscores shared human heritage. This initiative, part of a Special Strategic Partnership, aims to foster stronger people-to-people connections and mutual understanding, with a dedicated Year of Culture and Tourism planned for 2027.

India and the UAE are in early-stage discussions for the potential sale of Indian defence platforms, including the supersonic BrahMos missile and the Akashteer air defence network. This move signifies the UAE's push to bolster its military capabilities amid regional security concerns. If finalized, the UAE would join a growing list of international customers for these advanced Indian-made systems, deepening bilateral defence ties.

Plastic bottles usually end up in the dustbin after a single use, but they can be surprisingly useful in the garden. Instead of throwing them away, give them a second life and save money on gardening supplies. From watering plants to growing herbs, here are 7 simple ways Indian households can reuse plastic bottles in their home gardens.

Tamannaah Bhatia, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, continues to captivate audiences across films and OTT platforms. With a career marked by electrifying performances and a substantial net worth exceeding Rs 120 crore, Bhatia remains a bankable star.

A sophisticated 'Boss Scam' is targeting Indian companies, with cybercriminals hijacking executives' WhatsApp accounts to authorise fraudulent payments. These attackers impersonate regulators, tricking leaders into downloading malware that grants access to their communication. Employees are then instructed to make urgent transfers, exploiting trust and fear.

Nirjala Ekadashi, a highly revered Hindu observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu, demands complete abstinence from food and water. Observed on June 25, 2026, this rigorous fast is believed to bestow immense spiritual merit, akin to observing all Ekadashis. Devotees engage in prayer, chant mantras, and break their fast on Dwadashi, seeking divine blessings, purification, and inner peace.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed to accelerate the country's military buildup at a party meeting, state media reported Tuesday, citing military modernisation efforts by South Korea and the United States in the region. In the face of such developments, it was the steadfast stand of the North to accelerate efforts to further expand and strengthen the powerful and absolutely reliable deterrent for self-defence, Kim said.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval expressed cautious optimism regarding the US-Iran MOU, anticipating it will bolster energy security and ease supply chain issues for crucial goods like fertilisers. He highlighted the positive implications for freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, predicting a significant boost to regional and global economic prosperity. This development is seen as a welcome step towards improved trade and stability.

Tata Sierra EV AWD confirmed: Tata Motors has teased the Sierra EV ahead of its June 30 debut, confirming that the electric SUV will get a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. The model is expected to use the Harrier EVs acti.ev+ architecture and may come with 65kWh and 75kWh battery options, with AWD confirmed for one of the variants after the latest teaser.

Assam HSLC Compartment Result 2026: Assam's Class 10 compartment exam results are out today, June 23, at 11 am. Students who took the supplementary HSLC exams can check their subject-wise marks and qualifying status on sebaonline.org. This crucial announcement offers a second chance for students to secure their Class 10 certificates and proceed with their academic careers. Keep your admit card ready for a quick check.

A Ranchi commerce student, Avni Kejriwal, has achieved a perfect 500/500 in CBSE Class 12 exams after re-evaluation. Initially scoring over 92%, her marks were revised following scrutiny of English and Business Studies papers, adding 24 marks. The remarkable feat, especially in English, has sparked widespread online discussion and congratulations, with Kejriwal planning a future in business and finance.

A Kerala consumer commission ordered an online clothing seller to refund a dress cost and pay Rs 10,000 in compensation and costs. The seller delivered the dress nearly 10 months after it was ordered, a delay the commission deemed a deficiency in service. The seller's explanation of an accident was not accepted as justification for the excessive delay.

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar stated that cabinet expansion decisions rest with the Congress high command. He assured representatives from North Karnataka dargahs that their request to include MLC Salim Ahmed in the cabinet would be conveyed. With 20 ministerial berths vacant, Shivakumar faces pressure to balance aspirations from various communities and factions, emphasizing a desire to avoid injustice and factionalism while planning reforms for backward classes.

Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, George Kurian, has stepped down from the council of ministers following the conclusion of his Rajya Sabha term. The BJP opted not to renominate him for the recent elections. President Droupadi Murmu accepted his resignation, which took effect immediately. Kurian also served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

India's white-ball squad for the UK tour faces a setback as all-rounder Nitish Reddy is out with a quadriceps injury. Sustained during the Afghanistan series, the 23-year-old's absence creates a gap, especially with Hardik Pandya also nursing a similar issue. Reddy's recovery is expected to take at least four weeks, impacting his availability for upcoming matches.

A controversial workplace notice, allegedly from management, has gone viral on X, mandating a strict 30-minute lunch break. Exceeding this limit reportedly incurs a penalty of an hour of unpaid 'focus time' after 6 pm for every minute over. This has ignited widespread online debate, with many users criticizing the policy and suggesting mass resignations. The article's authenticity remains unverified.

Manipur's summer vacation has been shortened to one week due to the prevailing law and order situation, impacting educational institutions. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh emphasized education's power and the collective responsibility for implementing NEP 2020. Saturdays were declared working days to compensate for disruptions.

Telangana schools face potential disruption today as ABVP calls for a statewide bandh, protesting alleged government neglect of public education. The student body demands stricter private school fee regulations, action against excessive hikes, and improved infrastructure and staffing for government institutions. ABVP aims to highlight these critical issues and push for immediate government action to enhance educational quality across the state.

A new Supreme Court petition demands a court-monitored probe into alleged financial irregularities within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. The plea seeks an FIR and a CBI-led SIT to investigate missing funds and mismanagement. Petitioners also urge the preservation of all financial and digital records, emphasizing the need for transparency to maintain public faith and confidence in the trust's operations.

Daniel Radcliffe quote offers a profound insight into navigating fame and life: embrace connection despite the risk of being taken advantage of, or isolate yourself and miss out on genuine experiences. His perspective underscores that a life lived with trust, though it may bring occasional setbacks, ultimately leads to richer relationships and personal growth.

Erling Haaland's brace propelled Norway to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Senegal, securing their spot in the World Cup knockout stages after a 28-year absence. Despite a strong start from Senegal, Norway's attack, spearheaded by the in-form Haaland, proved too much. Marcus Pedersen opened the scoring, followed by two clinical finishes from Haaland. Ismaila Sarr's late goals offered a glimmer of hope for Senegal, but it wasn't enough.

UPTET exam city 2026 official website: Aspiring teachers can now check their UP TET 2026 exam city via the intimation slip released on June 22. The offline examination is scheduled for July 2, 3, and 4, with admit cards expected by June 30. This slip offers a preview of the exam location, though final details will be on the admit card. Candidates should visit upsssc.gov.in for the slip and stay updated.

True happiness isn't about possessing the best, but about making the most of what you have. This timeless wisdom highlights that contentment, gratitude, and a positive outlook are the real keys to a fulfilling life. Instead of focusing on what's missing, embracing opportunities and appreciating everyday moments cultivates joy. Resilience in the face of challenges, coupled with a grateful heart, allows individuals to find happiness regardless of their circumstances.

President Donald Trump indicated Monday he might withhold aid to NATO allies, citing their insufficient support for US military actions in Iran. He expressed frustration over a lack of assistance on small stuff despite significant US investment. Trump's remarks come ahead of his planned attendance at the NATO summit in Turkey next month, highlighting ongoing tensions with the alliance.

Telegram Kab Chalu Hoga: Telegram users across India are still grappling with access issues on June 23, with messages undelivered and the app unavailable. This disruption persists beyond the anticipated end of NEET-UG re-examination restrictions, sparking widespread user queries on social media. While no official extension has been confirmed, the continued blackout leaves many wondering about the platform's return.

A devastating fire in Aliganj, Lucknow, claimed 15 lives and injured nine, prompting the UP Chief Minister to form a special investigation team. The blaze ripped through a commercial building, trapping students. Preliminary reports suggest an AC duct fire and lack of proper exits contributed to the tragedy.

Iran US War: United States Vice President JD Vance reported significant progress in talks with Tehran, aiming for a permanent end to the recent conflict. Discussions focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and de-escalating the Israel-Hezbollah fighting. An interim deal sets a 60-day window for negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, with a potential waiver on sanctions for Iranian oil imports to the US.

Mumbai experienced pre-monsoon showers with thunderstorms, signaling the Southwest Monsoon's advance into Maharashtra. The India Meteorological Department forecasts widespread rainfall, heavy at isolated Konkan spots, and thunderstorms in Marathwada. Fishermen are warned against venturing into the sea. Authorities have issued an Orange Alert for Mumbai, anticipating heavy downpours and gusty winds, with potential for localized flooding and traffic disruptions.

Egypt made history with their maiden World Cup win, a 3-1 triumph over New Zealand, while Argentina and France solidified their knockout stage berths with dominant performances. Norway secured a thrilling 3-2 victory against Senegal, boosting their progression hopes. Meanwhile, Belgium and Iran played out a goalless draw, and Uruguay drew 2-2 with Cabo Verde, leaving their qualification scenarios open.

India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, expressed deep sorrow following an explosion at Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City that claimed the lives of twelve Indian nationals. The Indian Embassy is actively engaged with Qatari officials and is providing support to the families affected by this devastating incident. The blast occurred during a restart operation at the LNG complex.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage is heating up, with Germany, USA, and Mexico already securing knockout berths. Many other nations are on the cusp of qualification, while some face an uphill battle. Exciting contests are unfolding across various groups, promising a thrilling race for the remaining spots in the Round of 32 as the tournament enters its decisive phase.

The White House is convening defense contractors this week to ramp up munitions production, as stockpiles are strained by the ongoing conflict with Iran. President Trump confirmed the meeting, highlighting efforts to boost weapon manufacturing, including by auto companies like General Motors.

Iran has refuted US Vice President JD Vance's claims of agreeing to allow international nuclear inspectors, stating engagement with the IAEA will strictly adhere to existing safeguards and domestic laws. While Vance described recent US-Iran talks in Switzerland as highly productive, laying groundwork for a deal, Iranian officials indicated no nuclear program discussions occurred. Differing accounts highlight ongoing challenges in diplomatic efforts.

Discretionary spending is witnessing a notable resurgence, particularly in the apparel and white goods sectors, which have both seen impressive double-digit sales growth this fiscal year, thanks in part to a sweltering summer. Nevertheless, businesses are exercising caution, citing worries about the impacts of an unpredictable monsoon and escalating inflation on future purchasing trends.

Life's setbacks, whether personal or professional, often feel like an end. However, the powerful idiom 'like a phoenix rising from the ashes' highlights our innate ability to overcome destruction and emerge stronger. This ancient symbol of rebirth teaches resilience, transformation, and the courage to rebuild after loss, reminding us that even the most difficult moments can pave the way for a powerful new beginning.