The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
A powerful El Nino event has emerged across the Pacific Ocean. This developing weather pattern is expected to be one of the strongest in decades. Sea surface temperatures have risen significantly in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. There is an eighty-one percent chance of a very strong El Nino developing. This event ranks among the largest in the historical record going back to nineteen fifty.
Monsoon recovery follows a weak June, but uneven distribution persists. Many key agricultural districts still face deficient rainfall, impacting crops. Economists warn of slowed agricultural growth and increased food inflation risks. Nearly one hundred rain-fed districts are predominantly affected by moisture stress. This situation poses significant challenges for the ongoing kharif agricultural season.
Villagers in Bettiah gheraoed a forest department team on Thursday. They set ablaze one earthmover and damaged another during an anti-encroachment drive. Villagers claimed they had cultivated the land for many years. They stated they were not informed about the forest department's drive. Tension escalated after sugarcane crops were allegedly damaged during the operation.
Charlemagne's wisdom emphasizes action over mere knowledge for true success. He believed wise action requires understanding and learning from experience. Charlemagne united Europe and fostered education, demonstrating knowledge guiding societal improvement. Today, information is abundant, yet acting on known truths remains a challenge. Applying this lesson daily involves acting on what you already know.
Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre was arrested for assaulting two doctors at a hospital. He was later hospitalised for chest pain, according to officials. The two doctors Mhatre is accused of assaulting have resigned from their positions. Their colleagues confirmed the doctors' decision to step down from their roles. This incident has drawn widespread condemnation from medical professionals.
Three former TMC Rajya Sabha MPs joined the BJP on Thursday. Sushmita Dev and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray were among those who switched parties. Prakash Chik Baraik also joined the BJP with the other two leaders. They were immediately named BJP candidates for the Rajya Sabha bypolls. These nominations followed their resignations from the TMC and the Upper House.
Shah said India's border extends 15,000 km through 18 states and UTs and asked the forces to take three pledges - secured border, prosperous border region and a vigilant society.
The BJP candidate filed nomination papers for the Bankipur assembly bypoll on Thursday. Senior NDA leaders attended the nomination event and addressed a public meeting. Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary criticized Prashant Kishor for seeking votes without local connection. JDU leader Sanjay Jha cautioned workers about lower polling percentages in bypolls. The BJP has historically held this seat with significant vote share since 1995.
The BJP candidate filed nomination papers for the Bankipur assembly bypoll on Thursday. Senior NDA leaders attended the nomination event and addressed a public meeting. Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary criticized Prashant Kishor for seeking votes without local connection. JDU leader Sanjay Jha cautioned workers about lower polling percentages in bypolls. The BJP has historically held this seat with significant vote share since 1995.
Scheduled student conventions featuring Rahul Gandhi have been delayed, according to party officials from UP and Bihar. The events originally set for July will not take place as planned, prompting a search for new dates later that month. Dehradun is under consideration as a possible alternative location, leading to increased speculation about Gandhi's current activities abroad.
Maharashtra's chief minister has unveiled a seven-member committee tasked with the implementation of a uniform civil code. The panel will be led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai and is expected to deliver its report within seven months.
The Asian Development Bank has lowered India's FY27 growth forecast to 6.6 percent. Higher crude oil prices and transportation costs will impact consumer sentiment and demand. The bank retained its FY28 growth forecast at 7.3 percent, expecting global conditions to improve. Inflation forecast for FY27 is raised to 5.2 percent due to oil and food prices. Policy measures and public capital expenditure will support India's economic momentum.
President Trump reiterated his claim of resolving the India-Pakistan conflict. He stated that eleven aircraft were shot down during the hostilities. Trump believes he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for settling eight wars. India has consistently denied any third-party intervention in its affairs. The President asserted the conflict was on the verge of becoming nuclear.
S&P Global Ratings downgraded Harley-Davidson's credit to junk status on Wednesday. The company's strategy to sell lower-cost motorcycles will pressure profitability for some time. Analysts estimate margins will be around five to six percent in 2026. Restructuring expenses and tariff costs also face near-term profitability pressures.
The Bombay High Court has temporarily restrained Hamon Cooling Systems from using the 'Hamon' trademark. John Cockerill Hamon SA established a prima facie case for owning the brand after a cross-border insolvency process. The court found no merit in the defendant's claims of acquiescence and delay. The defendants are derivative users whose authority to use the marks has expired.
Life lesson by Mother Teresa today: Mother Teresa taught that small acts of kindness hold immense power. Genuine love, she believed, is shown through everyday compassionate actions. She founded the Missionaries of Charity to serve the poor in India. Mother Teresa received the Nobel Peace Prize for her humanitarian work.
Sharad Pawar is a big leader, he is very respected. However, the traitor (Eknath Shinde) brought down our (MVA) government and now you are holding a party meeting inside his office. By holding such meetings, the credibility of a big leader will fall, said Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut.
Google is appealing a Delhi High Court ruling concerning trademark infringement in its advertising program. The company argues the judgment deviates from established legal precedents regarding keyword advertising practices. A division bench will likely hear Google's appeal against the single judge's decision. The court had previously ordered Google to pay damages to Hindware for trademark misuse.
Archaeologists have stumbled upon ancient wolf remains on a remote island in Sweden, linking back to a time between three thousand and five thousand years ago. The discovery has led researchers to propose that humans possibly brought these wolves over by boat. Notably, the wolves' diet consisted largely of marine protein, indicating intriguing interactions between the two species in prehistoric times.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Australian businesses to invest in India's growing economy. He highlighted opportunities in manufacturing, clean energy, and advanced technologies for collaboration. Modi also called for the swift finalization of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. He met with Australian CEOs and business leaders to foster stronger economic ties. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined Modi at a diaspora event in Melbourne.
Quote of the Day by Avicenna: Avicenna's quote suggests time is shaped by memories and expectations. This ancient wisdom resonates with modern psychological concepts of mindfulness. The legendary physician and philosopher lived nearly a thousand years ago. His profound insights continue to influence our understanding of life's moments. Appreciating the present moment enriches our experience of existence.
Some people intentionally choose to spend their birthdays on their own. They might take a solo trip, enjoy a favorite meal, visit a quiet place, watch a movie, read a book, or simply set aside time to reflect on the year that has passed. For them, solitude is not necessarily about being alone, it can be an opportunity for rest, reflection, and personal meaning.
Why is your dog suddenly chewing you or blankets? Your dogs tiny front-teeth nibble may look unusual, but it often reveals trust, comfort, and emotional bonding. Cobbing in dogs is a gentle mouthing behavior where pets softly nibble people, toys, or other animals. Unlike biting, it is usually harmless. However, sudden chewing, stress, or panic during loud sounds may signal deeper issues like noise anxiety in dogs.
African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of If you close your eyes to facts, you will learn through accidents. The saying reminds us that ignoring reality or refusing to accept the truth often leads to avoidable mistakes and difficult life lessons. It emphasizes the importance of facing facts with honesty, paying attention to warning signs, and making informed decisions before problems grow. Rather than encouraging fear, the proverb teaches that wisdom comes from acknowledging reality e
Life lesson by Natsume Soseki: Modern life offers individuals unprecedented freedom and independence. This independence, however, can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Japanese novelist Natsume Soseki observed this paradox in his writings. He suggested that loneliness is a price for modern freedom and egoism.
Professor Sander van der Linden studies how people fall for misinformation and manipulation. Digital technology accelerates the spread of false information, exploiting human cognitive biases. Industries like tobacco and fossil fuels have long used doubt-casting techniques. Sophisticated firms now offer 'disinformation for hire' services using micro-targeting. Educational systems must adapt to teach new skills for navigating online deception.
Quote of the Day by Viola Davis: EGOT winner Viola Davis emphasizes inherent worthiness from birth. She states that value is not earned through achievements or external validation. Many women feel pressure to constantly prove their acceptance and belonging. This powerful lesson encourages self-acceptance and embracing one's true value. Recognizing inherent worth fosters courage and authentic living for everyone.
Erling Haaland finds the World Cup quarter-final against England very special. He was born in England and plays for a Premier League club. Norway's surprising run to the quarter-finals has been quite remarkable. Haaland has scored seven goals in four matches during the tournament. He enjoys the American culture and the overall World Cup experience.
Dogs vs. cats: Are dogs really more loyal, or is that just a myth? New animal behavior research shows dogs and cats both build strong emotional bonds with people, though they express loyalty in very different ways. With nearly 66% of U.S. households owning pets, understanding how dogs and cats show trust, affection, and companionship can help owners build a stronger, healthier bond with their four-legged family members.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Today Match Schedule 10 July: France and Morocco will compete in a quarter-final match on July 10. This game determines a semi-final spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026. France seeks a third World Cup title in this important fixture. Morocco aims to extend their historic run as an African nation. The winner advances towards the coveted World Cup trophy.
Quote of the Day by Morgan Freeman: Morgan Freemans quote, If you want to see a miracle, Be a miracle, explores the importance of kindness, personal responsibility, and creating positive change through our actions. The quote suggests that miracles are not always extraordinary events but can be created through compassion, generosity, and the willingness to make a difference in someones life. It reminds us that every person has the power to inspire hope, bring happiness, and become a source of pos
Three prominent Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MPs have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. These leaders were immediately fielded for upcoming Rajya Sabha by-elections in West Bengal. The Trinamool Congress leaders criticized the defections as an act of ingratitude and betrayal. Sushmita Dev cited the 'double-engine' government model as her reason for joining. Sukhendu Sekhar Roy expressed optimism about the BJP's governance and manifesto commitment.
The shipping ministry has granted exemptions for GIFT City entities. These entities can now lease foreign vessels without DGMA permission. This change follows a gazette notification under the Coastal Shipping Act. Previously, foreign flag ships required DGMA licenses for Indian waters. The new rule aims to ease commodity trading operations.
The psychology discussed here applies to people who intentionally keep a very small wardrobe while maintaining healthy hygiene practices. Behavior should always be understood within its broader context.
Probe into Ram temple donation theft reveals money invested in share market. Some funds were also lent out on interest by accused individuals. Relatives' bank accounts were used to route several misappropriated transactions. Police have frozen thirty bank accounts belonging to accused individuals' relatives. Investigations also uncovered land purchased with alleged stolen donation money.
France vs Morocco FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-Final: France faces Morocco in a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final on July 9. Both teams aim for a semi-final spot after strong performances in the tournament. France seeks its third World Cup title, having won in 1998 and 2018. Morocco aims to replicate its historic 2022 semi-final run as the first African nation. The match is scheduled for Boston Stadium with a 1:30 am IST kick-off.
The quake was at a depth of 10 km (6.21 miles), GFZ said.
FIFA referees chief Pierluigi Collina has defended World Cup match officials. He rejected unfounded allegations of malpractice after Argentina's controversial victory over Egypt. Collina stated that no one can question the integrity of FIFA World Cup match officials. He emphasized that match officials make honest decisions and always try their best. The FIFA official also clarified the VAR decision regarding Egypt's disallowed goal.
Life lesson by Jun'ichir Tanizaki: Jun'ichir Tanizaki's quote highlights a common human tendency to view the past nostalgically. This perspective can prevent appreciation for present opportunities and experiences. The Japanese author encourages balancing gratitude for past memories with openness to today.
Hotels use colourful bed runners at the foot of beds for practical reasons. These runners protect white bedsheets from dirt and stains from luggage. They also act as a barrier when guests sit on the bed's edge. While adding a stylish touch, their hygiene is sometimes questioned by experts. Some guests may choose to remove the runner for personal cleanliness.

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