The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
A Delhi court permitted the CBI to conduct further investigation into the NEET paper leak. Fresh digital evidence and CFSL reports necessitated a deeper look into the case. The agency seeks to investigate individuals not yet listed as accused in the ongoing probe. The court had previously taken cognisance of the charge sheet against thirteen accused individuals. This development follows the cancellation of the NEET-UG exam amid paper leak allegations.
The BJP criticized Rahul Gandhi's comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy. BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi called Gandhi's remarks arrogant and indicative of madness. He questioned if Gandhi's actions were childish or part of a conspiracy. The BJP stated that Gandhi's language was rude and indecent.
PlayStation Plus subscribers receive new games this August, including Helldivers 2 and Kingdom Come. Vampire Survivors and Hell Is Us also join the Game Catalog for members. Premium subscribers can enjoy classic titles Onimusha and Disney's Atlantis. Helldivers 2 is available immediately, with other games arriving later. This month offers a varied selection of gaming experiences for all players.
France's top court has blocked a bill banning social media access for minors. The Constitutional Council cited infringement upon freedom of expression as its reason. The court stated the law failed to specify necessary legal safeguards for age verification. This decision prevents the implementation of the proposed age restriction for online services. The ruling impacts how minors can access certain digital platforms in France.
Quote of the Day by Frank Sinatra: Frank Sinatras quote, The best revenge is massive success, explores the power of turning criticism, rejection, disappointment, and setbacks into motivation for personal achievement. The quote suggests that instead of seeking revenge against those who have doubted or hurt you, true strength comes from focusing on success, self-improvement, and building a fulfilling life. It encourages people to let their accomplishments speak for themselves and to transform nega
India's defence exports reached Rs 38,424 crore in 2025-26, a substantial increase. This surge reflects a strong push towards indigenous defence production and manufacturing. The Defence Acquisition Council approved projects exceeding Rs 8.75 lakh crore recently. These initiatives aim to modernize the military and strengthen border areas. India is now an emerging power in global defence manufacturing and exports.
India and Japan are enhancing skill development cooperation for workforce mobility. Discussions focused on preparing Indian youth for employment opportunities in Japan. This includes industry-relevant training and Japanese language preparation. The partnership aims to build structured pathways with strong industry participation. Both nations seek to translate intent into clear action for youth.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh criticized Rahul Gandhi's recent remarks. Singh called Gandhi's comments on Prime Minister Modi extremely low-level. He stated such conduct was a serious concern for India's democracy. Gandhi had questioned the government's stance on Chinese incursions and foreign policy. The Defence Minister also questioned the Congress party's legacy.
On Saturday, the monsoon continues to be vigorous in various parts of India. Multiple states and Union Territories are predicted to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall along with widespread thunderstorms. Citizens are urged to stay vigilant due to the potential for strong winds and travel delays that may arise from the persistent monsoon conditions.
Eight workers died and five are missing after a toxic gas leak at a shipbreaking yard. The incident occurred on Friday at the Ferdous Steel Shipbreaking Yard in Chittagong. Authorities have formed a committee to investigate the fatal accident and ordered an audit. Safety procedures were reportedly flouted before cutting began on the vessel. The shipbreaking sector in Bangladesh faces ongoing scrutiny over its safety standards.
Always finishing a glass may reflect a small example of a broader human tendency to prefer actions that have a clear sense of completion. However, this behavior alone doesn't mean that someone necessarily has a high need for closure.
Jemimah Rodrigues is out of the Asia Cup and Asian Games with a hamstring injury. She sustained the injury on August 3rd while playing in England's The Hundred tournament. Medical assessments confirmed a high-grade tear, ruling her out of upcoming events. Pratika Rawal will replace Rodrigues in the Asia Cup squad. The Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Japan later this year.
Sukhbir Singh Badal, the chief of the Shiromani Akali Dal, was released from a Nanded hospital on Friday following surgery for injuries sustained in a kirpan attack at a gurdwara. After the operation, which addressed a tendon injury and nerve damage, he traveled to Delhi. Authorities are currently probing the motive behind the assault by a gurdwara volunteer.
At Rorke's Drift, a valiant group of British soldiers held their ground for an incredible twelve hours against a fierce onslaught of Zulu warriors, resulting from the crushing defeat at Isandlwana. They cleverly built temporary defenses to withstand relentless attacks, and their extraordinary courage was honored with eleven Victoria Crosses, solidifying this battle as a legendary tale of resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
Prichard Colon, the boxer who suffered a devastating brain injury after his 2015 fight with Terrel Williams, has died at 33 after spending 221 days in a coma. There is little reliable public information about Terrel Williams life since retirement. The Colon fight remained the defining event of Terrel Williams career.
Reliance Industries and Rolls-Royce will partner for India's advanced combat aircraft engine. They plan to establish a dedicated aerospace gas turbine complex in India. This alliance combines Rolls-Royce's engine expertise with Reliance's manufacturing capabilities. The goal is to build an end-to-end Indian capability for aero-engine development. This initiative supports India's strategic autonomy and defense manufacturing goals.
The Cockroach Janta Party will launch its 'School Thik Karo' campaign on Independence Day. This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and accountability in rural government schools. The campaign begins in Abhijeet Dipke's village in Hingoli district of Maharashtra. Teams will visit villages and request participation from people and sarpanchs. The CJP seeks to ensure basic amenities for students studying in these institutions.
Saying actually before a correction does not necessarily reveal that someone is anxious, conflict-avoidant or unusually polite.But it can demonstrate an interesting feature of human communication: people do not simply exchange facts; they also manage relationships while exchanging them.
Rahul Gandhis act on Indias Foreign Policy, PM Modi and Italian PM gets slammed from all sides
Quote of the Day by Mel Gibson: Mel Gibsons quote, You know what happens when you dont take a risk? Nothing, explores the importance of courage, action, and stepping outside your comfort zone. The quote suggests that avoiding risks may also mean avoiding opportunities for growth, change, and success, reminding us that sometimes taking a chance is necessary to discover what is possible.
July saw a surprising dip in US retail sales, reversing the trend of recent strong performances. The earlier surge in consumer spending, fueled by generous tax refunds, has now dwindled. Additionally, lower gasoline prices have played a role in this decline. On a brighter note, a stock market upswing is enhancing household wealth, paving the way for potential future spending as affluent families leverage these gains for their purchases.
Quote of the day by Yoko Ono encourages us to reconsider the relationship we have with our own reflection. The person in the mirror is someone we will accompany through every success, mistake, disappointment, transition, and new beginning. Learning to meet that person with kindness can be one of the most valuable habits we develop.
To efficiently cool down hot cars, start by opening windows and a door on opposite sides to encourage airflow. Additionally, roll down the other windows before driving to facilitate further heat escape. As you drive, switch on the air conditioning, pulling in outside air. As the interior of the car cools, gradually close the windows for ongoing comfort.
Reliance Industries and Rolls-Royce have announced their strategic intent to partner on developing an indigenous combat engine for Indias AMCA programme, with plans to explore an Aerospace Gas Turbine Complex in India. The proposed partnership aims to combine Rolls-Royces advanced propulsion expertise with Reliances manufacturing and industrial capabilities to build end-to-end domestic engine capabilities and strengthen Indias push for defence self-reliance.
The Bureau of Indian Standards is revising national flag specifications for larger sizes. New provisions will allow for very large flags up to 9,000 mm x 6,000 mm. Color measurement norms are also being updated to align with current practices. These revisions aim to modernize standards while preserving the flag's essential identity. Certification for the national flag standard remains voluntary for manufacturers.
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit accusing Harvard University of failing to protect Jewish students. The government did not show an ongoing violation of federal civil rights law. This ruling adds to legal disputes between the Trump administration and the university. The lawsuit sought to recover billions in federal research grants awarded to Harvard. This decision represents another court victory for the university in its ongoing confrontation.
The US Department of War is ramping up missile interceptor production in collaboration with essential partners. Contracts with Boeing and RTX are set to expedite manufacturing processes for vital defense systems. This initiative will bolster supply chains and elevate fleet readiness for the US Navy, while significantly increasing the production rate of SM-3 Block IB and Block IIA interceptors, ensuring a robust defense industrial base.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca provided no assurances regarding Rodri's future at the club. Midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is reportedly set to depart after just one season with the team. Rodri will miss Sunday's Community Shield match due to rehabilitation from surgery. Maresca acknowledged that player transfers are possible as the window remains open. He also stated that Reijnders is convinced about leaving for more playing opportunities.
An FIR was registered against Aishwarya, daughter of Karnataka BJP MLA B Suresh Gowda, for allegedly assaulting a woman police sub-inspector. The incident occurred at Maramma Temple in Mandya during Bhima Amavasya celebrations on August 12. Aishwarya reportedly sought direct entry to the sanctum, which the Sub-Inspector denied, leading to an argument. The MLA has apologised for his daughter's conduct and called for a fair inquiry into the matter.
Insurer rejected Rs 50 lakh claim after mans death: A consumer commission has directed Cigna TTK to pay Rs 50 lakh after finding that the insurer wrongly rejected a critical illness insurance claim. The insurer has also been ordered to pay interest and litigation costs, with the commission finding no evidence to support the allegations of fraud. Cigna TTK has been given two months to comply with the order.
Supriya Sule urged that legitimate foreign donations for education should not be obstructed. She stated the government should not rush the proposed Foreign Contribution Regulation Bill. Concerns were also raised about the condition of Maharashtra's old ashram schools. An average of nearly one student died daily in these schools over two years. She also highlighted issues faced by companies in Pune's Chakan industrial area.
Karnataka's one-year ban on gutkha has met with opposition from the BJP, who warn that the decision could adversely affect nearly 1.5 crore families that depend on areca nut agriculture. With Karnataka contributing a large portion of India's areca nut production, the local government justifies the ban on public health grounds, focusing on tobacco and nicotine dangers.
Italian police have recovered three valuable paintings stolen earlier this year. The artworks by Renoir, Czanne, and Matisse were found during recent searches. These valuable pieces were taken from the Magnani Rocca Foundation near Parma. The theft occurred during a swift three-minute raid, highlighting security concerns. The recovery marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation.
Tomato gene editing: Hebrew University researchers edited tomato genes to boost fruit production significantly. These gene-edited plants can now form fruit without fertilization, a process called parthenocarpy. This breakthrough dramatically increases fruit yield during cold winter growing seasons.
The unearthing of Pompeii in 1748 unveiled a Roman city encased in volcanic ash, granting a unique glimpse into the lives and customs of ancient Romans. This archaeological marvel revealed residences, businesses, and artistic creations, offering profound insights into daily life. The eerie plaster casts of victims serve as a somber reminder of the tragedy that struck, enhancing our comprehension of ancient civilization.
Aluminium foil serves as an essential tool in salons for hair coloring procedures. It effectively separates hair sections, minimizing color overlap while ensuring that the dye remains intact on specific strands. This precision allows stylists to create stunning highlights effortlessly. Proper utilization of foil is crucial for achieving safe and efficient hair dyeing results.
The Supreme Court has stayed a Madras High Court order regarding jobs for stampede victims' relatives. This ruling offers relief to the Tamil Nadu government and affected families. The TVK party welcomed the Supreme Court's decision on Friday. They criticized the previous DMK regime for negligence in crowd management. Legal hurdles should not impede government assistance to the poor and affected families.
Rescue efforts continue after a Chamoli tunnel collapse trapped several workers. Twelve individuals have been successfully rescued from the collapsed tunnel. Seven bodies were recovered, and three people remain missing inside. Continuous rainfall and rising water levels are hindering the ongoing rescue operations. Authorities have ordered a magisterial inquiry into the unfortunate tunnel accident.
Seven workers died after a tunnel collapse at a hydroelectric project site in Chamoli. Nineteen workers were rescued, while three remain missing and are being searched for. Rescue operations are challenging due to water and sludge filling a large section of the tunnel. The Chief Minister ordered a magisterial inquiry and announced compensation for the deceased. Safety arrangements at the construction site are being questioned by local representatives.
Googles former chief scientist Jeff Dean, who spent 27 years at the tech giant, has revealed his intense weekly workout routine, which includes running, cycling, soccer, gym sessions and yoga. He also shared the simple habits he uses to protect his knees and ankles, including replacing running shoes regularly and using arch support inserts.
United States officials are pressing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to condemn a settler siege. Settlers have besieged Palestinian homes in Qusra for nearly a week. The United States protested after a Palestinian-American's home was among those targeted. Israeli soldiers removed a tent erected by settlers near the besieged homes.
A fire broke out at a Ganesha Ecosphere subsidiary plant in Warangal, Telangana. Two workers tragically lost their lives due to smoke inhalation while trapped. The incident occurred on August 13 at the Polyester Staple Fibre Plant. Firefighting operations were conducted after the blaze erupted at the facility. The company expressed deep regret and offered support to the bereaved families.
India's foreign exchange reserves saw a jump of over fourteen billion dollars. Foreign currency assets and gold reserves contributed substantially to this overall increase. The Indian Rupee also appreciated slightly against the US dollar on Friday. Forex traders noted pressure on the rupee due to fund outflows and oil prices. Overall reserves have risen considerably since March and over the past year.
Coriander prices have surged significantly after heavy rains disrupted essential vegetable supplies. Ginger and garlic prices also show substantial year-on-year increases, impacting household budgets. Unusually complicated monsoon patterns are affecting crop development and market arrivals across India. Rice and sugar prices are also beginning to add pressure to the food basket. This mixed inflation picture contrasts sharply with the previous year's broad price declines.
J&K draped in tricolour: Students lead Tiranga rallies in border areas ahead of Independence Day
Independence Day Movies: Independence Day presents a perfect opportunity to engage with Bollywood films that inspire and empower. Movies such as Shershaah and Uri not only display the valor of soldiers but also their tremendous sacrifices. Furthermore, titles like Swades and Raazi delve into the themes of patriotism and social duty. These cinematic masterpieces pay tribute to the heroes who shaped India's journey towards freedom.
If you are in San Francisco, you can now hire a humanoid robot to handle household chores, including vacuuming, cleaning surfaces, unloading dishes and taking out the trash for $30 per hour. However, the catch is that the company Tau Robotics is currently keeping the service invite-only, with prospective customers required to join a waitlist.

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