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National / The Economic Times

Amit Shah targets Mamata Banerjee over delay in Indo-Bangla border fencing in Bengal

Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised Mamata Banerjee for delaying border fencing land acquisition. He praised Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for promptly providing necessary land for border security. Shah announced a new border security administration headquarters in Siliguri. He also highlighted the importance of the national song Vande Mataram.

21 Aug 2026 2:53 pm
Indias aspiration economy: How consumers are reshaping cars, hotels, homes and food | ET WLF 2026

Indias aspiration economy: How consumers are reshaping cars, hotels, homes and food | ET WLF 2026

21 Aug 2026 2:33 pm
Locals push CJP team out of Rajasthan village; Abhijeet Dipke claims BJP 'goon' behind attack

A scuffle erupted when villagers and BJP workers allegedly blocked a CJP team's school inspection. The CJP team reported being attacked and pelted with stones by the group. Vehicles were damaged and CJP volunteers sustained injuries during the confrontation. Villagers claimed government funds were sanctioned for school repairs.

21 Aug 2026 2:08 pm
BMW X1 LWB launched at 49.90 lakh with more rear space, 156 hp turbo-petrol engine

BMW X1 LWB launched at 49.90 lakh with more rear space, 156 hp turbo-petrol engine

21 Aug 2026 2:06 pm
Paras Defence expects exports to double as Middle East conflict boosts demand

Paras Defence anticipates its export revenue will double this fiscal year. This growth is driven by Middle East conflict and rising geopolitical tensions. The company expects exports to reach Rs 120-130 crore by fiscal 2027. Orders from Israel and the UAE have increased, while European demand also rises.

21 Aug 2026 2:06 pm
In 1971, Apollo 15 secretly left a tiny aluminum astronaut on the moon; beside it was a plaque naming 14 dead American and Soviet space travelers

In 1971, a hidden aluminum tribute was installed on the Moon, commemorating the bravery of fourteen astronauts and cosmonauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Crafted by Belgian artist Paul Van Hoeydonck for the Apollo 15 mission, this poignant memorial serves as a reminder of the shared human commitment to transcend earthly barriers, honoring heroes from both American and Soviet space endeavors.

21 Aug 2026 2:00 pm
Quote of the Day by Jerry Garcia: Live life expecting the worst, hoping for the best, and - Why a balanced mindset can help you navigate uncertainty

Jerry Garcia's poignant quote encapsulates a well-rounded strategy for confronting lifes trials. It advocates a proactive stance towards challenges while nurturing a positive attitude. This principle skillfully addresses both mundane obstacles and grand ambitions. Celebrated as a symbol of the Grateful Dead, Garcia exemplified this belief through his musical journey, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom that is crucial for navigating the unpredictable nature of today's world.

21 Aug 2026 1:56 pm
Delhi to halt construction from December 10 to January 20 to curb winter pollution

Delhi will ban all construction from December 10 to January 20. This measure aims to tackle worsening air pollution during winter months. Larger construction sites will be monitored using AI cameras and a special portal. Authorities will take action against any violations detected during this period. Citizens are encouraged to report any construction work they observe.

21 Aug 2026 1:56 pm
NASA germinated corn seeds during spaceflight; seedlings showed altered root growth and twisted shoot patterns in microgravity

In a groundbreaking experiment, corn seeds grown in space exhibited unusual growth patterns, with roots growing sideways and shoots curling due to the absence of gravity and possibly inadequate light cues. These developments highlight the challenges future Mars agriculture must overcome, as plants need to consistently identify their orientation. Such findings serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in ambitious plans for space colonization.

21 Aug 2026 1:50 pm
In 1995, a Tasmanian fisherman found a dead carp. What followed was a four-decade operation to remove nearly 50,000 European fish

A dead carp spotted in Tasmania's Lake Crescent in 1995 triggered a 28-year campaign to eradicate invasive European carp from Lake Crescent and Lake Sorell. Authorities removed 49,301 carp using radio-tagged Judas fish, nets, electrofishing and genetic testing. By 2025, surveys found no remaining carp, allowing officials to declare the invasive species functionally eradicated and paving the way for the lakes' native ecosystem to recover.

21 Aug 2026 1:48 pm
AI, jobs and leadership: How businesses can prepare for the next decade | ET WLF 2026

AI, jobs and leadership: How businesses can prepare for the next decade | ET WLF 2026

21 Aug 2026 1:43 pm
MIT researchers redesigned ordinary fog nets, changing the mesh and coating, to extract drinking water from air in some of Earth's driest regions

Scientists have created an innovative mesh tailored for capturing water from fog, enhancing water yield dramatically over current nets. This breakthrough focuses on optimizing fiber diameter, spacing, and surface coatings to boost efficiency. Field experiments in Chile highlighted the mesh's remarkable capabilities, promising a cost-efficient, energy-free water source vital for dry regions.

21 Aug 2026 1:40 pm
Jefferies retains Buy on Crompton Greaves; sees up to 29% upside

Jefferies retained its Buy rating on Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals with a Rs 330 target, implying nearly 29% upside. The brokerage expects the companys premiumisation strategy, market share gains, new product categories and margin expansion to drive a 12% revenue CAGR and 18% EPS CAGR through FY29.

21 Aug 2026 1:32 pm
'Mute spectator': Dipke targets police as locals 'push' CJP team out of Rajasthan village

A CJP convenor criticized Rajasthan police after their team faced resistance during a school inspection. Villagers and BJP workers reportedly pushed CJP volunteers out of Rampura Kanwarpura village. The CJP team was inspecting government schools, one of which was declared unsafe. Classes were being held in a cattle enclosure near the unsafe school building. The CJP alleged police inaction while their volunteers were attacked.

21 Aug 2026 1:31 pm
Ladakh is saving 90 million litres of glacier water daily that once flowed unused into the Indus river by diverting it to irrigate 1,000 acres of parched land

Ladakh now uses ninety million litres of glacier water daily for irrigation. This water previously flowed untapped into the Indus River system. The initiative aims to bring irrigation to over one thousand acres of dry land. Twelve villages will now receive water on a daily basis. This project serves as a blueprint for future water management in Ladakh.

21 Aug 2026 1:30 pm
In 1971, Apollo 15 astronauts found a white rock later identified as part of the Moon's ancient crust; the Genesis rock was estimated to be around four billion years old

In 1971, the Apollo 15 mission led astronauts to discover a remarkable lunar rock, affectionately termed the 'Genesis rock' due to its age of roughly four billion years. Made up of anorthosite, this specimen serves as a crucial element of the Moon's original crust. Its unearthing highlights the meticulous planning and thorough training undertaken by the astronauts, further buttressing theories concerning the Moons cooling from a molten state.

21 Aug 2026 1:30 pm
India bonds hang tight before supply as oil stalls

On Friday morning, Indian government bonds found stability as oil prices leveled off. The market reacted to hawkish minutes from the central bank and a sudden spike in crude prices. Later today, a major debt sale will gauge investor interest in bonds. As retail inflation surpassed the Reserve Bank of India's target, rising oil prices and global yields will influence the upcoming market direction.

21 Aug 2026 1:28 pm
ECI refuses RTI details on CEC Gyanesh Kumars official visits, claims personal information

Saket Gokhale, a former MP, has alleged that the Election Commission is withholding information about CEC Gyanesh Kumar's official travel. The commission has referred to personal information provisions under the RTI Act to deny sharing financial details, which Gokhale contests. He expressed that expenses related to public duties should not fall under personal privacy, criticizing the Election Commission for a lack of transparency and accountability since Kumar took over.

21 Aug 2026 1:24 pm
Chanty Beluga takes social media by storm: The bizarre character and viral obsession for her videos

In the realm of TikTok, comedian Courtney O'Donnell has birthed the enchanting character Chanty Beluga. This charming persona thrives in relatable, everyday contexts, inspiring fans to contribute their interpretations and weave an ever-expanding narrative. The widespread fascination has even drawn in Major League Baseball, showcasing the character's allure and cultural significance across diverse audiences.

21 Aug 2026 1:22 pm
Gandhari OTT release date announced: When and where to watch Taapsee Pannu, Swastika Mukherjee, Ishwak Singh's thriller online

Gandhari, featuring Taapsee Pannu, is all set to arrive on OTT. Directed by Devashish Makhija and penned by Kanika Dhillon, this action thriller explores a mother's relentless drive to shield her child from harm. Alongside Taapsee, Gandhari features Ishwak Singh, Swastika Mukherjee and others. Read on to know when and where to watch it online.

21 Aug 2026 1:20 pm
A Manhattan office building began freezing water at night; the stored ice now helps cool it during peak summer demand

In the heart of Manhattan, Eleven Madison Avenue has adopted an innovative cooling method utilizing an ice battery. This system freezes water at night when electricity is more affordable, allowing the stored ice to provide cooling during the hot afternoon hours. This technique not only lightens the load on the power grid but also enables substantial savings on energy costs associated with cooling.

21 Aug 2026 1:20 pm
Billionaires Jeff Bezos, Sam Altman and Peter Thiel are trying to cheat death

Tech billionaires and leaders are investing heavily in longevity research and technologies. They aim to reverse aging and extend healthy human lifespans significantly. Historical attempts at rejuvenation have yielded limited success, but new science shows promise. This pursuit raises concerns about inequality as only the wealthy may afford early treatments.

21 Aug 2026 1:19 pm
TCS joins European T20 Premier League as digital transformation partner

Tata Consultancy Services will partner with the European T20 Premier League. They will develop an AI-powered digital ecosystem for the new cricket league. This partnership aims to enhance fan engagement and live match experiences. Technology will be central to the league's audience and commercial strategy. The league's inaugural season is scheduled for August and September.

21 Aug 2026 1:18 pm
Bharat Coking Coal shares jump over 7%. What's behind the sharp surge?

Bharat Coking Coal shares surged over 7% to Rs 37.70 as global coking coal prices soared 18%. The rally follows supply disruptions and strong long-term demand forecasts, offsetting the company's weak Q1 FY27 results where it posted a net loss of Rs 68 crore amid falling production.

21 Aug 2026 1:16 pm
Microsoft is betting on AI to transform work, now its hiring a Legal Engineer to lead the shift

Microsoft has opened a Legal Engineer position that blends legal experience with AI and technology, placing the role within its Corporate, External & Legal Affairs organisation. The selected professional will work with engineers, attorneys and paralegals to build AI capabilities, track adoption and system performance, and shape future investment decisions. The listed base salary ranges from USD $185,900 to $278,900 annually.

21 Aug 2026 1:16 pm
India set to approve $1.2 billion incentive plan to make building equipment, sources say

India is set to approve a $1.2-billion incentive scheme to boost domestic production of high-value construction equipment, including tunnel boring machines, and reduce import dependence on China. The programme is expected to attract $1.8 billion in investment over seven years.

21 Aug 2026 1:09 pm
ET World Leaders Forum 2026: The heartbeat of India lives in Tier-2, Tier-3, rural areas, says Google India MD Preeti Lobana

India's digital economy growth requires empowering small enterprises, farmers, and workers. Artificial intelligence must reach beyond large corporations to benefit all citizens. Companies are moving past AI experiments towards actual deployment and integration. AI can significantly enhance cybersecurity efforts for users and enterprises. India needs compute capacity and infrastructure for widespread AI adoption.

21 Aug 2026 1:03 pm
MCX shares jump 8% in 3 days as gold, silver futures rise. What lies ahead for investors?

MCX shares rose in three sessions to Rs 3,211, tracking a third straight session of gains in gold and silver prices amid a weaker US dollar and easing concerns over long-term yields. The stock has gained 15% in a month, 45% so far this year and 101% over the past year, while delivering a staggering 932% return in three years and 970% in five years.

21 Aug 2026 1:01 pm
Delayed, lost and mishandled: Air travellers had one big complaint in July, their baggage

Delayed and lost baggage caused the most passenger dissatisfaction in July. This issue accounted for nearly one-third of all airline complaints received. Flight delays and refund problems followed as significant passenger concerns. Airlines resolved most complaints, while IndiGo carried most domestic passengers. Overall passenger traffic showed slight growth from the previous year.

21 Aug 2026 12:56 pm
President approves Gallantry Medal for former cop who killed 2 dacoits in 2003

In a significant update, the Centre has informed the Supreme Court about the President's Medal granted to Vivek Singh Chouhan, honoring his extraordinary courage in a 2003 anti-dacoity mission. The Supreme Court had shown concern over the award's postponement. Following the Presidents sanction, the Ministry of Home Affairs will cease contempt actions against the Home Secretary involved.

21 Aug 2026 12:56 pm
Rahul Gandhi stages sit-in with student over alleged pellet-gun use at protest

Rahul Gandhi protested outside a Delhi police station on Friday. He alleged police refused to register his complaint regarding student protests. Gandhi accused Home Minister Amit Shah of authorizing force against students. He linked the protests to systemic failures in education and employment. The Congress leader demanded a formal investigation into the alleged incident.

21 Aug 2026 12:53 pm
Rahul Gandhi stages sit-in outside Delhi police station over student protest FIR

Rahul Gandhi protested outside a Delhi police station on Friday. He alleged police refused to register his complaint regarding student protests. Gandhi accused Home Minister Amit Shah of authorizing force against students. He linked the protests to systemic failures in education and employment. The Congress leader demanded a formal investigation into the alleged incident.

21 Aug 2026 12:53 pm
Some groups indulge in 'anti-national activities' on Jadavpur University campus: West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh

West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh has spoken out against the rise of anti-national activities on the campus of Jadavpur University, advocating that educational institutions must remain free of such disruptions. He highlighted the vice-chancellor's duty to ensure a secure and orderly environment. This comes in the wake of violent confrontations among student groups last Thursday, prompting the university to implement a restriction on external visitors after evening hours.

21 Aug 2026 12:52 pm
China deploys naval fleet with 700 personnel near strategic Red Sea gateway, Suez Canal; amid Pakistan's push for Somalia defence pact

China has sent its 49th naval escort fleet to the Gulf of Aden as African countries prepare a regional task force against piracy and armed robbery. The developments come amid renewed security concerns around the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea corridor. China has maintained escort missions in the area since 2008, while the proposed African force is yet to become operational.

21 Aug 2026 12:51 pm
Why Jefferies Chris Wood sees gold as the second-best hedge amid Iran war and fiscal risks

Jefferies Christopher Wood sees gold as the second-best hedge for investors amid rising geopolitical and fiscal risks linked to the Iran conflict. While he prefers oil and energy stocks as the primary hedge, Wood expects gold and gold miners to benefit from renewed monetary easing expectations, geopolitical shocks and persistent fiscal concerns.

21 Aug 2026 12:45 pm
What is Lobular breast cancer? New Zealand comedian Jaquie Brown reveals breast cancer diagnosis in Instagram post; heres what we know so far

Jaquie Brown, the renowned comedian from New Zealand, has disclosed that she is battling breast cancer. Following a mastectomy necessary due to invasive lobular breast cancer, she is now focusing on her recovery. The diagnosis, which she received in April 2026, came as a surprise. This type of cancer often evades early detection, with around 450 women in New Zealand being diagnosed each year.

21 Aug 2026 12:44 pm
Billionaire investor Bill Ackman and his wife donate $400 million for brain research after their 26-year-old daughter suffers massive brain haemorrhage spending weeks in coma

Billionaire Bill Ackman and wife Neri Oxman have pledged $400 million to launch the Ackman Oxman Institute, a brain research and rehabilitation centre in New York, after their 26-year-old daughter Lucy survived a massive brain haemorrhage in February. Ackman said he wants cures and treatments for patients, not academic accolades.

21 Aug 2026 12:43 pm
Deepinder Goyal reveals new Temple and you can pre-order it

Deepinder Goyal revealed his experimental Temple wearable is now significantly smaller. This device tracks cerebral blood flow and neurological markers. The company plans to start taking pre-orders for a limited edition soon. Shipments of the Temple wearable are anticipated before the end of 2026. Interested individuals can join the mailing list for future updates.

21 Aug 2026 12:40 pm
Amit Shah reaches Siliguri, set to review border security

Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Siliguri for a three-day visit to West Bengal. He will attend inauguration and foundation-laying ceremonies for various Sashastra Seema Bal projects. Shah will also interact with SSB personnel and participate in a traditional community meal. The visit includes a review of security arrangements around the strategically important Siliguri Corridor. He is also scheduled to attend an exhibition on India's new criminal laws.

21 Aug 2026 12:40 pm
AI can never take over human relationships, craft: Sabyasachi Mukherjee

Fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee opened his new flagship store in New Delhi. He believes craftsmanship will outlast artificial intelligence, which should only support creativity. Mukherjee also celebrated his multi-year collaboration with The Metropolitan Museum of Art. This partnership will draw inspiration from the museum's vast collection for new designs.

21 Aug 2026 12:34 pm
India face high-stakes Dutch test in World Cup second round

India faces a major test against co-hosts and Olympic champions the Netherlands on Saturday. The Indian team must improve defensive lapses after strong starts in previous matches. The Netherlands won all their initial group games convincingly, showing strong attacking form. India has defeated the Netherlands recently in the FIH Pro League, which offers hope. Captain Harmanpreet Singh acknowledges the need for better deep defense against tough opponents.

21 Aug 2026 12:33 pm
Indian CEOs should stop just asking questions and start building with AI: Anthropic India MD

Indian CEOs must build real AI products and solutions, moving beyond simple chatbot experiments. Companies are accelerating AI adoption and need to identify complex problems for dedicated task forces. Anthropic India is collaborating with major banks and institutions on various AI initiatives. McKinsey estimates AI's economic value at $4.4 trillion, with India investing billions.

21 Aug 2026 12:33 pm