The Economic Times

MSCI

Constructed in 1996, Harare's Eastgate Center exemplifies innovative design by mimicking the cooling attributes of termite mounds. This visionary structure, crafted by architect Mick Pearce and the engineering team from Arup, achieves a staggering 90% reduction in energy consumption for heating and cooling when compared to traditional buildings. Utilizing thermal mass and air shafts for natural ventilation, this model stands as a testament to the future of low-carbon architecture.

IAS officer Divya Mittal, a 2013-batch officer, has resigned from the Indian Administrative Service after nearly 13 years. In an emotional social media post, she reflected on her journey from IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore to a corporate job in London and eventually the IAS. While she did not cite any specific controversy or administrative issue behind her resignation, Mittal said her personal ambitions had been fulfilled and she now wanted to focus on the larger dreams she had for the people she s

India and Uzbekistan agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Discussions covered digital connectivity, defence, and energy sectors for mutual growth. Modi also attended a yoga session, highlighting cultural ties between nations. He will next attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Kyrgyzstan.

Researchers are developing innovative liquid windows that can control heat and light transmission. These tunable windows could potentially reduce building energy use by an estimated forty-three percent. Microscopic channels bonded to glass carry fluids, adjusting thermal and light properties. While still in development, this technology shows promise for future energy savings. Commercial buildings could see substantial reductions in heating and cooling expenses.

Innovatively transforming shredded tyres into construction materials for highway embankments, Maine tackled substantial waste tyre pileup while offering an affordable alternative. The tyre-derived aggregate not only lightweighted construction fill but also alleviated pressure on fragile marine clay foundations. The Portland Jetport Interchange project showcased impressive cost reductions compared to conventional methods, underlining successful tyre recycling for both civil engineering and waste

A Florida high school student, Delaney Peterson, has explored an unusual way to support oyster reef restoration, by turning discarded glass into a potential habitat for young oysters. Her research tested recycled foamed glass aggregate as a hard surface where oyster larvae could settle and grow. The project, which connects waste recycling with marine conservation, won her a Rs 1.2 lakh award at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair.

A recent Chinese agrivoltaic study revealed that solar panels can boost tea bush production. While these plants receive diminished light, they enjoy reduced midday photosynthetic stress thanks to a modified microclimate. Remarkably, fresh leaf yield surged by 15.3% in 2023 and by 9.3% in 2024, highlighting an innovative approach to dual land usage and enhanced agricultural efficiency.

India's Finance Minister confirmed achieving fiscal deficit targets for 2025-26. The government plans to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio to fifty percent by 2030. Domestic economic growth sustained over seven percent despite global headwinds. India managed fertilizer shortages and shipping risks through government intervention. Bilateral trade agreements are advancing due to slow multilateral progress.

When you purchase a new tyre, you may notice fine rubber strands known as vent spews. These are merely remnants from the tyre production process, where raw rubber is injected into the mould, allowing trapped air to escape. Despite their appearance, these spews have no impact on the tyre's performance or safety and will gradually disappear as you drive.

India's economic outcomes show distortions, not solely free-market forces at play. Company earnings and asset valuations are influenced by government interventions and incentives. Production Linked Incentive schemes support profitability in manufacturing sectors. Rural spending persists due to direct government transfers, not productivity gains. Policy interventions reshape outcomes, making growth seem stronger than it is.

Russia is reportedly gearing up for significant attacks targeting Ukraine's energy facilities. The country's defense ministry has announced these preparations, suggesting a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict. These strikes could severely impact Ukraine's power supply and critical infrastructure, causing widespread disruption.

Gujjar leaders expressed anger over the tribunal's decision regarding an Army officer. The tribunal struck punitive action against Brigadier Padmasambhava Acharya from records. This action relates to the custodial deaths of three civilians in Poonch district. Community leaders feel this decision betrays their trust and undermines justice. They demand accountability for the innocent lives lost during interrogation.

The Delhi Development Authority has launched Frequently Asked Questions on its website. These FAQs simplify understanding of the Master Plan of Delhi 2047 for citizens. The DDA also introduced a feedback facility for suggestions on the master plan. This platform allows direct communication of views to the DDA. It facilitates a participatory approach towards the Master Plan of Delhi 2047.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted Minister B Nagendra's resignation. This resignation followed allegations in an Rs 89 crore corporation scam. Nagendra stated he resigned voluntarily to protect the party and government. The opposition BJP-JD(S) had intensified criticism and protests against the legislator. The CBI's plea for prosecution sanction also influenced the resignation decision.

Five friends from Raipur had a narrow escape from the devastating Nepal floods after stopping for tea minutes before a bridge ahead was washed away. Stranded for two days, they watched the swollen Trishuli river sweep away vehicles and debris. Their ordeal took an emotional turn when women security personnel tied rakhis on their wrists before the group finally returned home.

Vietnam now leads all nations in its trade surplus with the United States. This significant shift occurred during the first half of the year 2026. Vietnam's surplus reached $114 billion, surpassing China and Mexico. This growth stems from economic reforms initiated in the 1980s and a China plus one strategy. Companies are increasingly diversifying manufacturing away from China towards Vietnam.

As Warren Buffett turns 96 in his first birthday since stepping down as Berkshire Hathaway's CEO, the piece revisits the investing principles behind his six-decade run

Nifty ended the week lower after consolidating in a narrow range, with the broader technical structure remaining unchanged. The index moved between 24,076.85 and 24,378.60, while India VIX declined 4.64% to 10.68. Support remains at 23,900

Gurgaon is often criticised for its traffic, waterlogging and air pollution, but a viral social media post has highlighted another side of the city. From horse riding, shooting and golf to athletics, rock climbing, karting and off-road driving, the post lists several outdoor activities that residents can access within a short drive.

Jharkhand will allow selected jail inmates to leave prison in the morning, work outside and return by evening under a new open and semi-open barrack system. Eligible prisoners can earn a livelihood and support their families while continuing their sentences, with good conduct among the key conditions for participation.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, urged Gulf rulers to identify their real enemy. He called for unity and mutual defense against enemies among Muslims worldwide. This message was published on his Telegram account on Sunday. Ayatollah Khamenei has not been seen publicly for six months. This follows airstrikes which killed his father and the previous supreme leader.

Activist Manoj Jarange is on his second day of an indefinite hunger strike for Maratha Kunbi caste certificates. He demands the Maharashtra government declare all Marathas as Kunbi to receive reservation benefits. Jarange plans a march to Mumbai if the government fails to meet his demands by September 12. A committee to scrutinize Kunbi records of Marathas has received a one-year extension.

Several victims were reported following an early morning shooting at a Swiss event. Cantonal police in Aargau confirmed a large-scale operation was underway. They appealed to the public for any film or pictures of the incident. Local media reported the event occurred at a rave party. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed a website detailing historical rulers of Bharat. He also highlighted the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat' campaign's progress. This initiative aims to create drug-free youth and a drug-free nation. The campaign is gaining momentum across the country with significant youth participation. It represents a collective resolve for the well-being and future of India's youth.

India has sent 68.5 tonnes of relief materials and technical teams to Nepal. Specialized teams are assisting in search and rescue operations within hydropower tunnels. Forensic experts are also present to aid in DNA analysis following the disaster. Equipment for modular steel bridges has arrived to restore transport links. Nepali security forces have rescued many workers from affected hydropower projects.

During August, foreign portfolio investors added over Rs 30,000 crore to Indian equities, showcasing the ongoing trend of substantial market inflows for the second month in a row. This surge can be attributed to enhancing corporate earnings and a stable economic environment. Furthermore, easing global geopolitical tensions have aided investor optimism, yet uncertainties surrounding crude oil prices and US bond yields remain pressing issues.

Last week observed a notable decline in market valuations, with seven out of the ten top firms witnessing a reduction of Rs 1.13 lakh crore. The greatest impact was felt by Bharti Airtel and Reliance Industries, linked to concerns over global interest rates and geopolitical instability. Nonetheless, there was robust buying in IT stocks, which facilitated a recovery in the market on Friday.

Chennai Corporation has allocated Rs 100 crore for monsoon and El Nino preparedness. Officials are directed to complete all preparatory works by the end of September. Funds will desilt stormwater drains and support localized disaster mitigation efforts. Tenders will repair damaged roads and deploy pumps in low-lying areas. Emergency kits and temporary workers will also be engaged for monsoon duties.

Nearly 90 companies, including NTPC, Coal India and Oil India, have scheduled record dates for dividends, bonus issues and stock splits from August 31 to September 4. Investors must hold the respective shares as of the record date to qualify. Mastek, Glenmark Pharma and Triveni Engineering are among Mondays stocks, with several companies announcing dividends for shareholders.

Hyderabad space-tech firms are requesting a dedicated Space City and infrastructure. The Telangana government aims to boost space technology as a key growth sector. Startups presented proposals for a strong space policy and common testing facilities. The minister acknowledged these suggestions and stated they are under consideration. This initiative seeks to position Hyderabad as a leading deep-tech hub in Asia.

India has become a key gasoline supplier to Russia recently. Russian fuel imports surged due to Ukrainian drone attacks on its refineries. Indian refiners supplied significant gasoline volumes to Russia in recent months. These supplies largely originated from Nayara Energy's Vadinar refinery. Russia is importing gasoline as domestic production faces disruptions.

Eleven people from Assam are missing in Nepal following devastating flash floods. Five stranded individuals have confirmed their safety and are receiving assistance. The state government established an emergency help desk in New Delhi for families. These flash floods were triggered by a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border. Efforts are ongoing to locate and ensure the safe return of all missing persons.

The NEET PG 2026 examination began Sunday for over 2.73 lakh medical graduates. This postgraduate medical entrance test is being conducted by NBEMS in computer-based mode. Candidates arrived at various centers across India, expressing some pre-exam nervousness. This exam follows the NEET UG 2026, which was cancelled due to paper leak allegations. The NEET UG re-examination was later conducted on June 21 for affected students.

Family Man actor Manoj Bajpayee has expanded his real estate portfolio by purchasing 4.45 acres of agricultural land near Pune for Rs 1.37 crore. The property is located in Tailbail village in Maharashtras Mulshi taluka, close to Lonavala and Mulshi Dam. The transaction was registered on August 25, 2026, with the actor paying Rs 6.86 lakh in stamp duty and Rs 30,000 as the registration fee.

India may need to sustain annual growth of more than 9% to achieve its developed-economy ambition by 2047. Economists say reaching that goal will require stronger manufacturing, private and foreign investment, exports, domestic savings and job creation, while avoiding the middle-income trap.

Kolkata police served a notice on TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee regarding a recent scuffle. He has been asked to appear at the police station on Tuesday noon. Three FIRs were registered, naming Banerjee as an accused in two of them. Private guards and supporters clashed with officials over an unauthorized billboard removal. Fourteen individuals have been arrested as the investigation continues.

Vietnamese farmers are shifting from coffee cultivation to durian farming. This change is driven by immense Chinese demand for the pungent fruit. Vietnam has become China's largest durian supplier, surpassing Thailand's long-held dominance. Durian exports are projected to reach four billion dollars this year. However, concerns about oversupply and quality control are emerging.

The death toll from Nepal's flash floods has reached 724 people. Nearly 2,500 individuals remain missing after the devastating disaster struck. Rescuers continue searching for survivors and recovering bodies on the fifth day. An ice-rock avalanche caused the torrent of water and debris. Crucial infrastructure and hydropower stations were also destroyed.

'If any Hindu thinks no Muslim in Bharat, he is not Hindu': RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in New York

Hong Kong's independent bookstores are facing unprecedented pressure and closures. Recent arrests of booksellers under a new sedition law have created fear. These spaces once offered a refuge for mainland Chinese readers seeking banned ideas. Authorities claim the laws are vital for maintaining stability and security. The situation reflects a broader crackdown on dissent within the city.

Five Indian friends narrowly escaped devastating flash floods in Nepal. A brief tea stop in Malekhu town saved them from the disaster. They spent two tense days on higher ground watching the river's destruction. Local authorities and residents provided assistance during the precarious situation. The group returned home safely after the ordeal concluded.

Australia's One Nation party secured a state parliament seat previously held by Labor. This victory follows the populist group's recent entry into the national lower house. The party's hard stance on immigration gains traction amid public frustrations. One Nation's rise challenges major Australian political parties ahead of upcoming elections. This win sends a clear message that no Labor seats are considered safe.

A South Carolina police officer, 29-year-old Christopher DeLong, was killed and another officer, David Dymock, was injured in a gunfight Saturday while responding to a domestic dispute.

India's inflation outlook hinges critically on September rainfall performance. A monsoon shortfall could push inflation to 5.5 percent or higher. Kharif sowing has recovered significantly from earlier deficits this season. Reservoir levels offer some cushion but remain below last year's figures. Weak rainfall's impact will emerge gradually, affecting rural demand.

Over 350 people have been rescued in Satna, Madhya Pradesh due to rising water levels. State Disaster Response Force teams are conducting round-the-clock rescue operations, even during the night. An army helicopter rescued two individuals from Chitrakoot, safely transporting them to safety. Residents in flood-affected areas are urged to move to temporary shelters provided by authorities.

Norway's new King Haakon VIII honored his late father, King Harald, in his first national address. He spoke with emotion while remembering his father's warmth and his mother, Queen Sonja. The new monarch pledged to uphold Norway's constitutional monarchy and democratic principles. Thousands of mourners gathered to pay respects to the beloved late King Harald. People remembered his inclusive spirit and tolerance, which resonated widely.