The Economic Times

What happens when you don't vote? You go to hell: Trump pumps up supporters ahead of midterms

The Bankers' Books Evidence Act, 2026 will become effective from October 1. This new law modernizes the use of banking records as evidence in courts. It recognizes records in various formats, including electronic and cloud-based systems. The Act also simplifies the certification process for these banking records. Provisions may extend to other financial sector entities as the landscape evolves.

A tech entrepreneur who quit a 75 lakh-per-year job to build a startup says the company's first product became irrelevant within 30 days after the rise of ChatGPT and Google's AI tools. The startup lost all its customers, took seven months to find a new direction and another nine months to build a meaningful product.

Quote of the day by Alexander von Humboldt offers a simple way to understand a complicated world. His thinking placed connection above isolated facts. Nature, people and everyday decisions rarely exist alone. One event can affect another in ways we miss. This idea makes his life wisdom relevant to perspective, balance, curiosity and understanding how different parts of life fit together.

The meeting comes as leaders of BRICS countries prepare to gather for the summit, which is being hosted by India. Modi and Putins meeting is part of a series of bilateral engagements involving the participating leaders before the main summit.

Indian boxers prepare for the demanding Asian Games 2026 in Japan. This event follows a record-breaking Commonwealth Games performance for the contingent. Several women boxers carry significant medal hopes into the competition. Men's boxing shows signs of progress, aiming for stronger showings. Success in Japan will gauge the sport's revival and Olympic prospects.

A sacked driver and two Income Tax officials attempted a fake raid. They demanded one crore rupees from a former employer's Mumbai office. The company owner foiled the extortion attempt by asking for authorization documents. Police have arrested ten individuals, including the two serving Income Tax officials. Investigations are ongoing to identify all involved parties and their roles.

A team of researchers discovered that discarded seashells have the ability to purify water by removing rare earth metals. Among various shell types, oyster shells stood out for their unique porous structure that effectively transforms dissolved metals into solid minerals. Given the aquaculture industrys yearly production of millions of tonnes of shell waste, this innovative process presents an opportunity to recycle waste while tackling water contamination issues.

Tokenisation at population scale needs public chains, interoperability, liquidity: Nandan Nilekani

Pakistan faces a difficult balancing act between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Recent fighting in Yemen is testing its dual role as defense partner and mediator. Islamabad seeks to avoid alienating Tehran while deepening Gulf ties. Pakistani officials are concerned about potential involvement in the conflict. The nation is advocating for restraint and diplomatic de-escalation on all fronts.

Mulch beds often struggle with encroaching grass and weeds. Spruce Weed & Grass Killer offers a ready-to-use spray solution. This kit includes a spray wand and a refillable weed killer bottle. Buyers praise its ease of use and quick results, though some note root issues. Careful application is advised to protect desired garden plants.

Innovative researchers have created a revolutionary cellulose acetate film that excels in passive cooling. By absorbing minimal sunlight while efficiently emitting infrared heat, surfaces coated with this film remain cooler than the ambient air without needing electricity. Practical uses for this technology abound, including applications in roofing, vehicles, and storage facilities. This advancement promises to alleviate pressure on electricity grids during sweltering conditions.

Villagers in Fatehpur's Hardauli village tied a telecom technician to a mobile tower for two hours over long-standing network problems, but it later came out that the technician himself had suggested being tied up, hoping it would push his company to act.

On September 8, authorities placed two men in judicial custody following their arrest for trying to enter Jio World Plaza armed with a firearm. Security staff uncovered a dubious identity card and the weapon during standard checks. One suspect is identified as a businessman, while the other is a retired Army personnel. The police are currently examining the motives and details of the incident.

Rahul Gandhi highlighted India's education system failures and sought feedback. He asked students, parents, and teachers to share their experiences and ideas. Gandhi is preparing for his 'Chhatron ki Goonj' initiative in Indore. This program aims to gather student voices for systemic change. Previous events have been held in several Indian cities.

Quote of the Day: Marcel Proust believed gratitude for people who make us happy is essential. These individuals act as gardeners, helping our souls blossom and flourish. Proust, a French author, explored happiness and gratitude in his writings. His famous quote highlights the impact of supportive companions on our inner lives. Recognizing these people helps us understand what truly brings us happiness.

In an extensive research initiative, scientists collected toilet paper swabs from a diverse group of thousands worldwide, revealing a significant increase in bacterial diversity compared to earlier studies. Notably, participants who incorporated numerous plant varieties into their diets experienced a remarkable boost in gut microbiome diversity. The study also found that antibiotic consumption correlated with more complex chemical profiles within samples.

In 2024-25, the state paid Rs 25,604 crore towards interest and Rs 29,126 crore as principal, while for 2025-26, the revised estimates show that Rs 27,095 crore was paid towards interest and Rs 34,025 crore as principal.

Abhijeet Dipke urged the Maharashtra government to dialogue with Maratha activist Manoj Jarange. He warned against any forceful intervention in the ongoing hunger strike protest. Dipke highlighted Jarange's demands for student facilities and Maratha reservation. He questioned the government's inaction and lack of dialogue with the activist. Dipke stressed that Maharashtra would not tolerate any harm to Manoj Jarange.

Real growth happens during the tough journey, not only when we reach the top. Albert Einstein reminds us that the value lies in the process itself. Today's society often fixates on rapid achievements and noticeable outcomes. This obsession can create stress and overlook personal growth. Embracing joy in everyday efforts fosters enduring happiness and genuine fulfillment.

Over the years, actor Ed Begley Jr. has meticulously turned his home into a model of energy efficiency. This incremental renovation approach has not only improved the property's environmental impact but has also heightened its resale value significantly. Research indicates that the inclusion of solar panels can greatly enhance a home's market price, while electric vehicle charging stations and energy-saving appliances further boost its appeal and provide significant savings.

A Reddit users bizarre workplace story about a maroon office chair nobody is allowed to sit in has sparked a mystery online. The rule was already in place when longtime employees joined, but even the office manager reportedly refused to explain why.

The Spanish saying 'El hbito no hace al monje' serves as a reminder not to evaluate people solely based on their appearance. Clothing and titles may mislead us, hiding a person's true essence. This proverb invites us to seek deeper truths beyond mere visuals, highlighting that a person's character is demonstrated through their actions and how they relate to others in society.

Acknowledging India's strength in weathering increased energy prices, the International Monetary Fund has praised the country's economic stability during a tumultuous global landscape. The real GDP growth for the April-June quarter notably exceeded initial expectations. While the IMF appreciates advancements in statistical frameworks, it calls for persistent improvements in data quality. Anticipated growth projections for India will be published in October.

Congress leader Salman Khurshid stated India's BRICS representation should include the entire country. He urged the Union government to consult the Opposition on BRICS matters. BRICS represents a significant share of global population, trade, and emerging economic strength. India's BRICS chairship this year carries significant international expectations and responsibility. The Opposition believes BRICS presidency is a national responsibility, not just government's.

Green roofs present a remarkable solution for enhancing temperature control in urban environments, effectively lowering surface temperatures. The vegetation on rooftops generates shade while aiding in air cooling through the process of evapotranspiration. This natural cooling not only alleviates indoor temperatures but also minimizes energy consumption. Across the country, federal agencies are increasingly adopting green roof systems, marking a strategic approach to mitigate summer cooling deman

Jefferies has cut its target price for KEI Industries by 11% to Rs 6,150, citing concerns over UltraTech Cement

High inflation, weak currency: Sambit Patra cites old article on UPA-era BRICS summit

The BJP has nominated former IAS officer Debashish Sharma for the Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election. Sharma recently took voluntary retirement and joined the BJP before receiving the ticket. The by-election is scheduled for October 6, with results announced on October 9.

Sun Tzu, the ancient strategist, profoundly emphasized the significance of preparation and intelligence for achieving strategic victories. His insights prioritize accomplishing goals with the least conflict and financial burden. In contemporary settings, this guidance proves invaluable for addressing business and personal hurdles alike. By fostering adaptability and situational awareness, Sun Tzu's enduring wisdom continues to steer decision-makers toward effective leadership on the global stage

Emma Bonino, a prominent Italian politician, has died at the age of seventy-eight. Her political career began with a fight for abortion rights, which she championed throughout her life. Bonino served in both Italian and European parliaments, advocating for social justice and gender equality. She also held significant roles as a foreign minister and European Commissioner in Brussels.

Actress Susan Sarandon's dream of an off-grid Vermont estate encountered significant construction problems and a lawsuit. Her company filed suit against the contractor, alleging misrepresentation and inflated invoices for the $2 million project. Engineers and staff identified forty-seven separate issues, including mold and buckled siding. While the lawsuit was dismissed, it serves as a cautionary tale for sustainable home construction.

A social media trend uses ChatGPT to create 1980s-style fitness photographs. Users transform modern workout images into retro gym and bodybuilding portraits. Prompts recreate vintage equipment, clothing, and analogue photography styles. The trend includes recreating Indian gym scenes and Bollywood fitness looks. This allows for nostalgic visual exploration of past fitness culture.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will attend a BRICS Summit dinner and meet Mukesh Ambani. He will also inaugurate the Adani Group's new hospital project near Kolkata. The state government is actively seeking major corporate investments for development. A defence project at Junput is also being pursued by the government. The completed Haldia Petrochemicals expansion is ready for inauguration soon.

The Modi-Putin relationship has developed an unusual diplomatic rhythm over the past decade: private dinners, boat rides, estate tours and even an extended conversation inside Putins limousine. As geopolitical pressures complicate India-Russia ties, this informal channel has helped the two leaders discuss disagreements away from the formal negotiating table.

Homes with green features are increasingly selling for more money across the United States. Actress Alicia Silverstone's Hollywood Hills home, upgraded over three decades, is now worth over two million dollars. Her property features solar panels and a graywater system which recycles water for her garden. Motherhood prompted Silverstone to replace toxic products with eco-friendly alternatives and antique furnishings.

BRICS nations can boost trade and investment by deepening financial markets. Experts suggest using local currencies more often for transactions. Linking payment platforms and exploring CBDCs will speed up cross-border payments. Reducing non-tariff barriers will also enhance intra-BRICS trade significantly. Greater trust and business partnerships are key for future economic cooperation.

AI researchers express concerns about potential human extinction and enfeeblement. These fears stem from loss-of-control scenarios and deliberate human misuse of AI. Highly intelligent AI agents might pursue their own goals, disregarding human well-being. Misaligned AI could view humans as obstacles to achieving their objectives. Catastrophic scenarios also include societal breakdown from cyberattacks and novel bioweapons.

Facilitating the domestic private sector to secure critical mineral assets abroad and transport them back home serves as the need of the hour for India, Union Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy stated on the sidelines of the CII Global Summit in New Delhi.

IndusInd Bank faces a Rs 1 crore penalty from IRDAI for failing to provide an adequate, insurance-specific grievance redressal mechanism for policyholders. Despite claims of an overall system, the regulator found a lack of dedicated channels and inadequate information, highlighting a crucial distinction between banking and insurance customer service.

Don't fret over red wine spills - everyday household items can come to your rescue! A concoction of club soda and salt is great for absorbing those pesky stains. For tougher cases, try soaking the fabric in a warm blend of soap, water, and vinegar. This method not only tackles the stain but ensures your clothes can bounce back from anything that comes their way!

Gold and silver prices fell on Friday, September 11, 2026, as fluctuations in the global market took their toll. The release of strong US PPI data heightened expectations of a Federal Reserve rate increase, putting further strain on precious metals. Heightened geopolitical issues compounded the situation, leading to price cuts from leading jewellers like Tanishq and Malabar Gold & Diamonds.

Removing fruit stains from laminate countertops can be easily achieved using common household items. These bright stains are caused by anthocyanins, pigments that dissolve in water. To minimize spreading, gently blot the spill. A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can effectively work on sticky residues. For tougher stains, caution is advised when using diluted bleach or rubbing alcohol solutions.

JioBlackRock Flexi Cap Fund reshuffled its portfolio in August, exiting 21 stocks while reducing exposure to 34 others, including NALCO, Hindustan Zinc and RIL. It increased holdings in 17 stocks and added 22 new names. The funds portfolio grew to 136 stocks, with banks accounting for its largest sector allocation.

China and India are arranging a bilateral meeting between their leaders. President Xi Jinping will travel to India this weekend for a BRICS summit. China's foreign ministry stated they will approach bilateral ties strategically. They aim to enhance communication and cooperation while managing differences. Xi will attend the summit and discuss the international situation with leaders.

Indian skilled professionals looking to work in the UAE can enter Dubai to search for jobs without first securing a local employer or sponsor. The Dubai job exploration visit visa allows eligible jobseekers to attend interviews, take part in recruitment processes and explore employment opportunities in the emirate.For Indians considering a move to the UAE for work, the visa offers an option to conduct the job search from Dubai instead of applying for jobs from India. Applicants can choose a 60-d