The Economic Times

A Japanese proverb highlights how quickly time passes and opportunities vanish. Autumn days fall swiftly, much like a well bucket descending. This saying urges us to act on important matters without delay. Cherish present moments with loved ones and pursue goals now. Life's precious experiences can fade unexpectedly, so appreciate them.

Supriya Sule dismissed speculation regarding meetings between NCP (SP) leaders and the Maharashtra Chief Minister. She clarified that Jayant Patil sought an appointment to discuss a municipal council president's issue. The INDIA bloc will formulate its stand on delimitation after a formal bill is presented. Sule emphasized that political and personal interactions should not always be viewed as conspiracy.

Maruti Suzuki has opened bookings for the upcoming Brezza facelift. The updated compact SUV will feature a new 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine. Exterior styling will see minor revisions and new alloy wheels. Inside, customers can expect a larger touchscreen and ventilated seats. The refreshed Brezza is expected to launch on July 24.

Ladakh's Lieutenant Governor flagged off the first fresh apricot export consignment to the UAE. This historic shipment marks a significant step for the region's horticulture sector and its farmers. Over one thousand metric tonnes of apricots are slated for export this season under a new agreement. The administration is also working to establish a world-class apricot processing unit within a year.

Native American proverb of the day: A Blackfoot proverb teaches that life and death are not separate but part of the same natural cycle. It suggests that every ending can lead to a new beginning, encouraging us to embrace life's constant and inevitable changes. By recognising the impermanence of all things, we can learn to appreciate ordinary moments more deeply. Reflecting the rhythms of nature, the proverb reminds us to live with gratitude and accept change as a natural part of life.

The Supreme Court voiced concern over student frustration with the CBSE's digital marking system. Justices noted systemic problems emerging within the digital evaluation process. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court about ongoing systemic issue reviews. A one-member commission is examining the evaluation system for necessary changes. The court requested an update on steps being taken by the CBSE.

The Supreme Court has given Odisha one month to decide on Dara Singh's remission plea. Singh is serving a life sentence for the 1999 murders of Graham Staines and his sons. He has served over 24 years and claims to have repented his actions. The state's sentence review committee has requested more time to gather necessary records.

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar assured apartment owners of a new law. This comprehensive legislation will protect their ownership rights after stakeholder consultations. The government will also address developer and property document issues. The proposed Bhumi Guarantee aims to deliver Khata certificates without bribes. Infrastructure development and planned high-rise growth remain key government priorities.

The Delhi Cabinet has approved a new bill for citizen services. This legislation will make timely government service delivery a legal right. It replaces an older law with a modern, technology-driven framework. The proposed bill includes digital service delivery and automatic escalation for delays. An independent commission and penalties will ensure accountability and transparency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Social Security Agreement mark a major milestone in bilateral ties, strengthening economic links and creating new opportunities for businesses and skilled professionals.

Two newly elected Rajya Sabha members took their oath on Wednesday. Mansoor Ali Khan, a Congress leader, was elected from Karnataka. Rajneesh Kumar Agrawal, a BJP member, was elected from Madhya Pradesh. The Rajya Sabha Chairman administered the oath to both new members. Khan took his oath in English, while Agrawal chose Hindi.

Quote of the day: Queen Elizabeth II believed a fulfilling life stems from unselfish service to others. She served as the longest-reigning British monarch for over seventy years. Her reign began in 1952 and concluded with her passing in 2022. She emphasized kindness and compassion throughout her extensive public service.

The US and China are engaged in a significant technology competition. Artificial intelligence and semiconductor chips are central to this ongoing rivalry. Export controls are intensifying the AI chip war between these nations. Global supply chains are being reshaped by this intense technological race. Other countries face opportunities and challenges from this evolving competition.

Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister Wladyslaw Bartoszewski lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's global influence. He stated Modi is one of few leaders who can influence Russian President Vladimir Putin. Bartoszewski credited Modi with helping prevent nuclear weapon use in late 2022. He also endorsed India's diplomatic approach to West Asian tensions. Putin himself recently praised India's independent foreign policy and economic progress.

Former Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi stated no government pressure was faced. He noted the Election Commission's strong image prevented any such approaches. Election dates were kept secret, even from intelligence agencies. The government learned of election announcements during press conferences. Quraishi has no information suggesting the situation has changed.

Arpan Kendras: Delhi government has launched Arpan Kendras at 10 metro stations to collect old clothes from residents and prevent textile waste from reaching landfills. The initiative will sort donated garments for reuse, upcycling and recycling while also creating livelihood opportunities for women-led self-help groups.

Eileen Lavine, a 101-year-old woman, maintains a sharp mind and active lifestyle. She credits her longevity to keeping her mind engaged with daily reading and puzzles. Lavine continues to work as a copy-editor, finding purpose in her professional contributions. She also prioritizes social connections, regularly engaging in games and family visits. Her routine demonstrates a different perspective on aging, focusing on mental and social vitality.

India has amended its Foreign Trade Policy to prohibit imports of goods made using forced labour. This move creates a legal framework for banning such products in the future. The United States is investigating India and other economies over similar alleged failures. India's constitutional obligation and international commitments drive this significant policy change.

The Trinamool Congress faction proposed alternative sites for their July 21 rally. They suggested Birla Planetarium or Metro channel as new locations. The court questioned why another rally could not be permitted nearby. The police are open to granting permission at a different venue. The hearing was adjourned for the government's views on venue suggestions.

Chhattisgarh High Court ruled insurers are not liable before policy issuance. The court found the tribunal wrongly used Aadhaar for age determination. This decision enhanced compensation for accident victims and their families. The court revised disability assessment for an injured claimant significantly. The ruling clarified insurance contract commencement dates and age proof requirements.

Wholesale price inflation reached 9.87 percent in June, impacting the nation's economy. The Congress party attributes this rise to the government's anti-people policies. Fuel and electricity prices saw a significant surge, affecting common citizens. Agricultural sowing has also dropped to a three-year low, causing further distress. The opposition demands accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this economic situation.

Boiling lemon peels and bay leaves creates a pleasant home fragrance through aromatic compounds. These natural ingredients release scents when heated, filling rooms with a citrus-herbal aroma. However, this method primarily masks odors rather than eliminating their sources effectively. Scientific studies on insect repulsion use concentrated oils, not simmered ingredients. The trend is a safe, inexpensive way to freshen homes, but not a substitute for purification.

China's export engine is posting a large trade surplus, defying global challenges and trade tensions. Chinese exports climbed significantly in June, driven by tech and surging automobile sales. Europe faces immense pressure from these imports and rising energy prices. German automakers are particularly impacted, considering job cuts and reduced sales. Policymakers are now examining exchange rates as a potential solution to these economic imbalances.

The median home price in the United States reached a record high of $408,776 in June. Affluent buyers are fueling demand, benefiting from stock market gains and cash purchases. This trend widens the affordability gap for first-time and middle-income households. Major cities like San Francisco and West Palm Beach also saw significant price and sales growth. High borrowing costs and rising prices make homeownership increasingly difficult for average Americans.

Municipal Corporation of Delhi Standing Committee elections will occur Wednesday. Voting for ward committee chairpersons and deputy chairpersons also takes place. The Bharatiya Janata Party holds an advantage in the Standing Committee contest. Several ward committee outcomes may depend on Congress councillors' votes. The elections aim to restore the civic body's decision-making panel.

Minister Nitin Gadkari defended the ethanol blending programme against criticism. He stated his family's business involvement is minimal and not influential. Gadkari dismissed claims of vehicle engine damage from E20 fuel. He highlighted the programme's role in reducing pollution and oil imports. The minister also addressed highway construction quality concerns.

Washington Sundar expressed happiness batting in various positions for India. He acknowledged coaches Gautam Gambhir and Ashish Nehra for boosting his confidence. Sundar highlighted the team's benefit from multiple all-rounders contributing with bat and ball. He praised skipper Shubman Gill for anchoring the chase effectively. Pacer Gurnoor Brar also received praise for his crucial wickets.

Anil Menon NASA astronaut: Anil Menon, the first NASA astronaut of Malayali heritage, has reached the International Space Station (ISS) on his first space mission. Over the next eight months, he will conduct scientific experiments focused on human health, evaluate new medical technologies and support research into semiconductor manufacturing in microgravity. His mission aims to advance future space exploration while contributing to innovations that could benefit life on Earth.

The House of Representatives has passed a bill to make daylight saving time permanent nationwide. Proponents argue this change offers more evening daylight for outdoor activities and businesses. Detractors express concerns about darker winter mornings and potential safety hazards for children. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration and potential enactment into law.

Quote of the Day by Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi's words highlight that winning every time is impossible. He emphasizes accepting defeats as chances to learn and improve. This perspective is crucial as Messi faces another World Cup semi-final. True champions learn to rise after experiencing every fall. His career demonstrates resilience and the value of continuous effort.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with European Council President Antonio Costa. He valued guidance for advancing trade and technology cooperation between the two sides. Discussions also covered West Asia and maritime commerce safety. Cooperation is deepening across trade, technology, security, and defence. India-EU FTA enables possibilities for cooperation with Belgium.

A public interest litigation seeks urgent medical aid for Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike. His health has rapidly deteriorated, raising concerns for his life and well-being. The petition urges authorities to provide immediate medical treatment and initiate dialogue. It highlights the government's constitutional duty to protect citizens' lives and health. Judicial intervention is deemed necessary to prevent irreparable harm to the activist.

Prime Minister Modi honored K. Kamaraj on his birth anniversary for his freedom movement contributions. Kamaraj dedicated his life to nation-building and public service for the underprivileged. His vision for an equitable society continues to inspire many generations. Born humble, Kamaraj's life turned after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He served as Chief Minister of Madras and was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna.

The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education in Kerala will announce Plus One results today. Students can check their scores on the official results portal online. They must achieve 35% marks in each subject to pass. Those who do not pass can appear for improvement examinations. This allows students to continue their academic progression without delay.

India UK Free Trade Agreement: The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement is now in effect. Nearly all Indian exports will gain duty-free access to the United Kingdom. India will also reduce import duties on various British products over time. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade significantly by 2030. Indian professionals will benefit from extended social security exemptions.

Researchers in Japan developed special ladderways for giant salamanders to cross river dams. These step-type structures with side walls proved most effective for amphibian movement. The innovative approach helps reconnect fragmented river habitats without dam removal. This method offers a practical conservation tool where dam removal is not feasible. The findings suggest similar designs could aid freshwater wildlife globally.

Security forces intensified search operations in Nagaland after an IED blast killed one soldier. Four other personnel sustained injuries and are receiving hospital treatment. A civilian also suffered a leg injury from flying debris during the explosion. Officials and militant groups condemned the attack and vowed justice for perpetrators. Meanwhile, Manipur police launched an operation to apprehend those responsible for a July ambush.

The death toll from a Bangkok live music pub fire has risen to thirty-two. Authorities are investigating potential negligence and obstructed emergency exits at the venue. The blaze, which occurred late Sunday, tore through the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub. Combustible stage decorations and crowded conditions likely fueled the extreme heat and smoke. This incident follows a similar deadly nightclub fire in Bangkok in 2009.

Iran's IRGC warned of targeting oil routes for US allies after striking a naval base. The force claimed destruction of command centers and fuel tanks at the base in Bahrain. US forces conducted strikes on Iranian military targets near the Strait of Hormuz. These strikes aimed to degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Closing Ceremony: The biggest football tournament in history is about to sign off in equally massive fashion. The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will feature an unprecedented halftime show. Global music icons like Madonna and BTS will perform during the interval. A pre-match ceremony will include artists such as Robbie Williams and Nicole Scherzinger. Here's everything Indian fans need to know about who's performing, when the show starts, and how the timings translate back home.

France striker Kylian Mbappe acknowledged his team's subpar performance led to their World Cup semifinal loss. Mbappe and Lionel Messi are currently tied with eight goals each in the tournament. Mbappe holds the tiebreaker advantage with more assists in the ongoing Golden Boot race. France will now compete in the third-place match after their semifinal defeat. Both Mbappe and Messi will play one more game before the award is decided.

China's second-quarter economic growth slowed to its weakest pace in over three years. Official data revealed a 4.3% annual rise, missing analyst expectations and government targets. Industrial output showed strength while retail sales saw some improvement last month. However, property sector investment and broader investment remained under pressure. Lingering structural imbalances continue to challenge the Chinese economy's recovery.