The Economic Times

An Italian fighter jet downed an unknown drone in Latvian airspace on Friday. Latvian soldiers are searching for debris from the drone near Rugaji village. This incident occurred during Ukrainian attacks on Russian ports near St Petersburg. NATO confirmed its readiness to react to any potential threats to its territory. Baltic nations are increasing security amid drone spillover from the Ukraine war.

US President Trump directed the Navy to revert to steam catapults for new aircraft carriers. This design change will add hundreds of millions of dollars to taxpayer costs. The Navy will also be permitted to build ships overseas for the first time in decades. Foreign shipbuilders making investments in US shipyards can build up to two vessels.

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a condition where one side of the heart is underdeveloped and prevents normal blood flow. If untreated, the condition causes severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, skin rashes, weak pulse and ashen or bluish skin.

Quote of the Day by Oliver Hardy of Laurel and Hardy: Oliver Hardys quote, You know, theres a right and wrong way to do everything, explores the importance of good judgment, responsibility, and approaching tasks with care. The quote suggests that success is not only about completing something, but also about understanding the proper way to do it. Hardys words remind us that thoughtful decisions, patience, and attention to detail can help people avoid unnecessary mistakes and achieve better resul

Extreme heat hours are rising faster than entire hot days globally. Hotter nights are becoming more common, extending heat exposure periods. Future projections show a significant increase in hourly heat extremes by 2100. Low-income nations face the most substantial rise in hot hours. People born today will experience more extreme heat over their lifetimes.

U.S. President Trump dismissed fears regarding the USS Abraham Lincoln's lengthy deployment, asserting that a nearly nine-month mission is manageable for the sailors. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers voiced concerns about the health and living standards of the crew. Despite their worries, the Navy reported no rise in suicidal thoughts on the carrier, and U.S. Central Command rejected claims of dire conditions onboard.

Happy Independence Day 2026: Vande Matram Lyrics in English: On India's 80th Independence Day, the timeless patriotic anthem Vande Mataram will take center stage, resonating from the Red Fort's ramparts for the very first time. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this historic ceremony will culminate in the unfurling of the national flag, followed by the stirring rendition of the national anthem to commemorate the occasion.

Over the years, the economy has evolved dramaticallyfrom rising incomes and a larger global footprint to deeper integration with the world economy and a shift towards services. India has come a long way, but significant challenges remain. Anoushka Sawhney takes a look.

The Nagaland Baptist Church Council opposes making Vande Mataram singing compulsory. Students' federation also asked institutions to avoid the full national song. They believe the complete version conflicts with the country's secular principles. The council respects national symbols but emphasizes freedom of conscience and identity. They urge sensitivity and dialogue over coercion for national unity.

Japanese proverb of the day: When individuals genuinely commit to a task, they frequently exceed their own expectations. This steadfast devotion not only enhances resourcefulness but also ignites an intrinsic motivation to tackle challenges head-on. Accepting personal responsibility bolsters initiative, crafting a path to greater confidence and autonomy.

On August 15, 2026, the cosmic spectacle of Mercury and Jupiter aligning heralds a time of great promise for three zodiac signs. Gemini will experience enhanced communication, enabling new opportunities to emerge. Libra's diligent patience is set to yield meaningful transformations and a boost in self-assurance. Meanwhile, Capricorns may finally see the results of their persistent efforts manifest as a long-awaited breakthrough.

An American hostage, Kevin Rideout, was freed from an Islamic State affiliate. Eastern Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar helped broker the deal for his release. Rideout, a pilot for a missionary group, was kidnapped in Niger last October. The U.S. had prioritized his recovery and sought overflight access for searches. Details regarding any exchange for his freedom remain undisclosed by officials.

As India prepares for the Galle Test match, unpredictable weather threatens gameplay. The batting lineup is pivotal in restoring morale and achieving valuable runs. On match day, the team will finalize their strategy, likely deploying three spinners alongside two pacers. Captain Shubman Gill emphasizes the importance of adapting to Sri Lankas pitch dynamics as the team strives for series victories without succumbing to pressure.

80th Independence Day: The Economic Times wishes everyone a Happy Independence Day

La Liga kicks off this weekend, even as several matches have been pushed back. The defending champions, Barcelona, along with Real Madrid, will launch their seasons next week. Celta Vigo faces a delay for their home opener due to a fungal issue on the pitch. In the meantime, Atletico Madrid will host Malaga amid speculations regarding Julian Alvarez's future.

The New Development Bank is set to invest $7.5 billion in India, focusing on local currency financing aimed at strengthening emerging economies. By launching a rupee bond program, the bank aims to enhance India's domestic capital markets. This initiative reflects the bank's commitment to diversifying international financial structures, capitalizing on the substantial growth prospects that India's development presents.

Saturday is a good time to identify habits, situations or routines that have stopped serving you. Releasing one outdated pattern could create room for something much better.

The government is actively considering a single-window system designed for space sector approvals, aiming to enhance efficiency in business operations and notably cut approval durations. Multiple departments have engaged in discussions to create this inter-ministerial platform for shared applicants, addressing the longstanding demand from the space industry for reduced regulatory difficulties. This system's implementation is set to streamline the application process for diverse space ventures.

The National Investigation Agency has made another arrest in the case of the targeted killing of Vikas Prabhakar, a prominent Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader. Manveer Ram, referred to as Ashu, was apprehended at Amritsar International Airport on Thursday. Investigators believe that the assassination plot was devised by Germany-based members of Babbar Khalsa International, leading to the filing of several chargesheets by the NIA as part of their probe.

Throughout history, ancient Indian cultures embraced intoxicants such as toddy and cannabis, weaving them into the fabric of religious and martial practices. Under colonial rule, the British imposed taxes on distilled beverages while limiting local production to boost government revenue. In contrast, independence ushered in laws that prohibited traditional substances, disrupting long-standing community customs.

The Indian Army has contracted for domestically produced one-way attack drones. These drones will be acquired within the next twelve months under fast-track procedures. Tata Advanced Systems and Nibe will supply 840 long-range attack drones. These systems are designed to strike targets over one hundred kilometers away. The drones will be tasked to neutralize enemy artillery positions deep across borders.

Nvidia has unveiled a major financing initiative aimed at supporting artificial intelligence chip acquisitions. By collaborating with prominent financial institutions, the plan seeks to provide substantial debt solutions tailored for AI startups. This multifaceted financing strategy is designed to address the skyrocketing demand for computing power, ultimately fostering the essential digital and AI infrastructure development needed in the tech industry.

To effectively tackle child abuse material investigations, India might require a formal data-sharing agreement with the United States. US social media platforms typically direct reports to NCMEC, adhering to legal limitations. However, delays from NCMEC's CyberTipline in submitting reports to India have sparked debate. Experts propose the temporary sharing of metadata from additional tips. Collaborative dialogues among platforms, NCMEC, and I4C are essential to address these differences.

To commemorate the bravery of India's freedom fighters, plans are underway to create fifty tribal villages equipped with museums and memorials highlighting their heroic stories. Prior to the development of these villages, baseline surveys will be conducted to ensure community needs are met. Each location will benefit from an allocation of twenty lakh rupees, with the initiative set to commence in eleven villages soon.

India's foreign exchange reserves increased by $14.1 billion to $707 billion. Foreign currency assets rose by $9.9 billion, and gold reserves gained $3.9 billion. These reserves have now declined from their earlier peak of $728 billion. Further inflows are expected from FCNR(B) and ECB schemes until August 31. The Reserve Bank of India received $56.8 billion in foreign currency inflows.

I do not support Cory Mills: DeSantis deals blow to embattled GOP Congressman before primary

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The government is increasing scrutiny of sugar stocks due to surging prices. Large industrial buyers are now providing consumption data to the food ministry. Sugar mills must now detail sales of 500 metric tonnes or more annually. Physical stock checks are being conducted at mills across various states. This action follows observations of discrepancies in reported sugar stock data.

The Supreme Court strongly disapproved the Bar Council of India's withdrawn order. Chief Justice Surya Kant stated the Bar Council had no business interfering. The court issued notice and prohibited punitive action against NALSAR students and faculty. Students were encouraged to enroll and join the Supreme Court bar. This action serves as a fitting answer to those causing impediments.

Quote of the Day by George Soros explores the investing wisdom behind his famous words, It's not whether you're right or wrong, but how much money you make when you're right and how much you lose when you're wrong. Discover what this quote by George Soros teaches about risk management, conviction, losses, discipline and making smarter financial decisions.

Mr President, we must bomb Paraguay: Rubio confesses near-psychotic experience of Keto diet

Water and debris entered an under-construction tunnel in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district. Nineteen workers were rescued after the incident, which claimed seven lives. Search operations continue for three missing individuals trapped inside the tunnel. Twelve rescued workers sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is supervising the ongoing rescue operations at the site.

On Independence Day 2026, a remarkable gathering honoured over a thousand personnel with Gallantry and Service Medals. Among them, 301 were awarded Gallantry Medals for their extraordinary bravery, particularly in challenging areas affected by Left Wing Extremism and in Jammu & Kashmir. Furthermore, 92 deserving personnel received the Presidents Medals for Distinguished Service, while others were recognised with Medals for Meritorious Service for their unwavering commitment to duty.

The individual accused of attacking Sukhbir Singh Badal has placed the blame on the escalating drug crisis in Punjab, asserting that the former SAD government did little to resolve the issue. Investigators are currently examining his statements to uncover the true motive behind the assault. At this time, there's no evidence linking the incident to extremist factions.

Scientists found evidence of liquid nitrogen flow beneath Pluto's Sputnik Planitia. This flow may have occurred after rising through cracks in the glacier. Computer models show nitrogen melting under pressure and reaching the surface. Dark lines and patches on the ice suggest this wetting process. This discovery reveals dynamic processes on the distant dwarf planet.

The Registrar General of India has notified a 40-question schedule for Census 2027. This includes an open-ended caste question for all respondents for the first time. Demographic and socio-economic details will be collected, along with identification information. Migration and employment data will also be gathered during the upcoming enumeration. The census exercise is scheduled to begin in August 2026.

Suspected militants attacked Langka Naga village, killing two villagers and injuring two others. The villagers were working in a paddy field when the attack occurred on Friday morning. Security forces rushed to the area after the incident, and some villagers reportedly fired back. This violence follows recent arson in the Champhai area, escalating tensions. The Liangmai Naga Council has declared an immediate shutdown across their inhabited regions.

Bill Ackman's journey began with a modest college sales position at Harvard University, earning $14,000. His foray into real estate quickly evolved as he stumbled upon Benjamin Graham's seminal investing book, igniting his passion. This pivotal moment played a role in shaping his admiration for Warren Buffett. Subsequently, Ackman founded Pershing Square Capital Management, gaining reputation for its activist investing.

In September, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will be in Delhi for the 18th BRICS summit, a visit set against the backdrop of heightened US-Iran tensions and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. During his trip, India hopes to finalize crucial arrangements for the Chabahar Port and discuss strategies for energy supply security.

Alphabet's initial $900 million SpaceX investment is now worth approximately $94 billion. This significant return makes Alphabet the largest institutional shareholder in the rocket company. Other early backers like Fidelity Investments and Saudi Arabia's PIF also hold substantial stakes.

President Murmu called India's youth its most valuable asset during her Independence Day address. She emphasized safeguarding students' present and future through comprehensive examination reforms. The President also noted Vande Mataram's significance during the Swadeshi Movement. Precision strikes during Operation Sindoor sent a firm message to terrorists and their supporters. India's economy continues its fastest growth despite global instability and warfare.