The Economic Times

President Murmu hosts At Home reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan for 80th Independence Day

'Great reward of jihad...': Iranian military offers $30k bounty for killing or capturing US soldiers

PDP workers and farmers were detained in Shopian during a protest. They demanded the implementation of a crop insurance scheme for damaged crops. Former legislator Ajaz Ahmad Mir stated he was under house arrest during the protest. Farmers requested government facilitation for crop insurance and subsidies for hail nets. The protest highlighted the collective voice of growers seeking protection for their livelihoods.

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey Defence Pact: US President Donald Trump has welcomed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan, calling it an important step towards stronger regional security. Describing the agreement as a BIG, BOLD, IMPORTANT FIRST STEP, he said he was very happy that Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan ecently, and finally signed the agreement. Heres what the pact means and what Trump said about the emerging defence alliance.

Powerball jackpot: The Powerball jackpot has climbed to an estimated $35 million for Monday's drawing. No ticket matched all six numbers in Saturday's drawing, increasing the prize. Previous major jackpots were won in Illinois, North Carolina, and Arkansas this year. Players can win one million dollars by matching five white balls without the Powerball. Drawings occur three times weekly, offering substantial prizes to lucky ticket holders.

Thousands displaced by a powerful earthquake in eastern Indonesia await much-needed aid. Many residents slept outside for a second night, fearing aftershocks and damaged homes. Local residents expressed frustration with a perceived lag in government assistance and supplies. The Indonesian Air Force is airlifting emergency aid, including food and water. Rescuers continue searching the affected area for any potential victims.

A fire erupted at a hotel near Tarapith temple, killing seven pilgrims. The blaze started on the ground floor around 5 am while most devotees slept. Fire tenders quickly arrived and brought the dangerous fire under control. Injured individuals were transported to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital. Hotel officials suggested a short circuit caused the tragic incident.

Black Hole Star: A Hyderabad-born astronomer and fellow scientists have identified a possible black hole star using the James Webb Space Telescope. The object, MoM-BH-1*, may represent a new type of astrophysical source. It appears like a star but is powered by a central black hole. The discovery could help explain the mysterious little red dots seen in the early universe.

With a resolute mindset, Cristiano Ronaldo reveals his thoughts on how to handle support and criticism effectively. Launching his career at Sporting CP, he made waves at Manchester United from 2003 before dominating at Real Madrid. Notably, he guided Portugal to victory in both UEFA Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League. His journey epitomizes the essence of modern football and continues to inspire millions.

US Iran war: Tehran's military doctrine is shifting towards an offensive posture, preparing for transformative approaches. The armed forces will take necessary action at the appropriate time. Adversaries are warned to anticipate strategic surprises from Tehran. Iran's new commander emphasizes maximum deterrence and proactive threat neutralization. Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf declared military and political victory in an unjust war.

The Enforcement Directorate is investigating Rs 160 crore transferred from TMC accounts to an aviation firm. This probe includes Rs 82.96 crore routed to a new entity and aircraft purchases. The agency is examining an Rs 88.5 crore interest-free security deposit paid by the party. The Supreme Court declined to interfere with the freezing of three TMC bank accounts. These accounts hold Rs 440.

A complaint seeks an FIR against Sonia and Rahul Gandhi for alleged disruption. The incident reportedly occurred during the National Song's rendition on August 15. Video footage and media reports are cited as evidence for the allegations. The complaint references a proposed bill concerning insults to national honor. Police are asked to investigate the matter after verifying legal status.

Quote of the Day by Elaine Scarry presents a thought-provoking exploration of the disconnect between our personal experience of pain and our ability to validate the suffering of others. Her analysis reveals how physical suffering informs our language and empathy, noting that invisible pain complicates this understanding. Scarry's insights are crucial for deepening our comprehension of human relationships and the shared experience of suffering.

Australia suffered a humiliating nine-wicket loss to Bangladesh in Darwin. This defeat has accelerated calls for regeneration of the ageing Test team. Opener Jake Weatherald and Marnus Labuschagne are reportedly in the firing line. Former captain Ricky Ponting believes tough decisions are now necessary for the squad. Selectors may look outside the current squad for batting alternatives.

In the Nifty500 pack, nine stocks' closing prices crossed below their 200 DMA (Daily Moving Averages) on August 14, according to stockedge.com's technical scan data. Trading below the 200 DMA is considered a negative signal because it indicates that the stock's price is below its long-term trend line. Traders use the 200 DMA as a key indicator to determine the overall trend in a particular stock. Take a look:

BGMI Lite Krafton: Battlegrounds Mobile India Lite is set to make its debut in India by the end of 2026, as confirmed by Krafton India. This streamlined version aims at catering to gamers using budget-friendly and older smartphones. Insights from PUBG Mobile Lite suggest exciting features for BGMI Lite. Stay tuned for more updates as the launch date approaches.

In a crucial update regarding the Nancy Guthrie disappearance, Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that federal resources are being deployed to assist in the investigation. The FBI is lending substantial support to state and local authorities in Arizona. As the search continues, officials are actively examining evidence and pursuing leads, even releasing ransom notes to encourage tips from the public.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant declined Nalsar University's convocation invitation. Students opposed his presence citing remarks made during a protest hearing. The Bar Council of India intervened, threatening students with debarment from legal practice. The Supreme Court questioned the BCI's involvement in the matter. The BCI later withdrew its letter and expressed regret for its actions.

In early Asian trading on Monday, gold prices experienced a modest uptick, buoyed by a weaker dollar and fresh economic statistics. Anticipations for a US interest rate hike in the coming month have notably diminished. Markets now reflect a reduced likelihood of a rate increase in September, allowing non-yielding gold to thrive in this low-interest-rate setting.

The yen slightly appreciated against the dollar, seemingly unfazed by disappointing Japanese GDP results. Market participants have begun to adjust their forecasts, pushing back the timeline for a potential Federal Reserve interest rate hike this year. Soft economic signals from the U.S. have dampened investor sentiment regarding future rate adjustments. Meanwhile, oil prices displayed volatility due to stalled U.S.

On August 17, 2026, devotees across India will celebrate Nag Panchami, a day dedicated to worshiping Nag Devta to invoke blessings for their families. This significant event occurs during the Panchami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Shravana month. Rituals include prayer, fasting, and traditional offerings to serpent deities. Notably, Gujarat will celebrate it a bit later, on September 1, 2026.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a joint defense agreement. US President Donald Trump called this pact a significant first step. The agreement was signed by leaders of the three nations on August 7. India is now assessing the implications of this new regional pact. New Delhi will take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests.

Taiwan detected Chinese military aircraft and vessels operating near its territory. One Chinese aircraft entered Taiwan's northern Air Defence Identification Zone on Monday. Previously, eleven Chinese aircraft sorties crossed the Taiwan Strait's median line. Eight Chinese navy vessels and two official ships were also detected. These events highlight ongoing tensions and China's territorial claims.

The dollar experienced a decline following disappointing US economic indicators, leading to less anticipation for interest rate hikes. Treasury yields dropped universally as retail sales saw a significant downturn. Meanwhile, oil prices reversed their upward trend as traders sought new market signals. In Asia, stock markets showed little variation amid careful monitoring of Middle Eastern affairs, with ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting global investor confidence.

'File case against Sonia Gandhi': JSP founder Prashant Kishor reacts to Vande Mataram Row

Quote of the day Kristen Stewart challenges the idea that success has one universally accepted appearance. Money, awards, recognition, and professional achievements can be valuable, but they are not the only measures of a life well lived. True success may be found in the freedom to do meaningful work, the ability to enjoy the present, the courage to make honest choices, and the integrity to remain genuine while pursuing personal goals.

Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto ended his hunger strike after fifteen days. He seeks permanent reforms in the education system for future generations. The Jharkhand government invited student leaders for talks on Monday. Protesting aspirants agreed to meet a government delegation at the State Guest House. Discussions aim to address alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.

In the June quarter, Indian companies celebrated remarkable revenue growth, reaching a nine-quarter high. Despite this, profits grew by only eleven percent, largely due to rising input costs. Key sectors such as auto, banking, metals, and pharma played a pivotal role in this expansion. Notably, small and midcap firms showcased impressive earnings per share. Looking ahead, revenue is anticipated to gain momentum from upcoming festivals and premiumization strategies.

Rescue efforts continue in Colombia's quake-hit cities a week after the disaster. Nearly 300 people died and thousands of buildings were destroyed by the earthquake. Many survivors lack shelter and face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. The government seeks international aid to assist in the extensive reconstruction process. Volunteer rescuers persist in their search for missing individuals, holding onto hope.

Farmers protesting the India-US trade deal are camped at the Khanauri border. Bharatiya Kisan Union Ekta Sidhupur chief Jagjit Singh Dallewal appealed for passage to Delhi. He requested the Prime Minister and Haryana government allow a peaceful march on foot. Farmers seek a legal MSP guarantee, farm loan waivers, and Swaminathan report implementation. They also asked courts to take cognizance and pave a way forward.

President Trump directed the Pentagon to significantly reduce joint military drills with South Korea. He expressed unhappiness with the United States agreeing to participate in these exercises. Trump cited South Korea's refusal to join actions against Iran as a reason. North Korea routinely denounces these drills as preparations for invasion. Recent North Korean missile launches and their use in Ukraine were also noted.

Democratic Republic of Congo's Ebola outbreak has become the deadliest on record. This outbreak has now killed 2,325 people, surpassing previous records. The current outbreak is caused by a rare Ebola species with no approved treatments. Experts cite surveillance and detection shortcomings for the rising fatality rate. This situation is only dwarfed by West Africa's 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak.

The Nifty index has reached a temporary halt following a robust upward surge, positioning itself at critical support and resistance zones. Analysts are divided in their approaches: some suggest capitalizing on price dips, while others lean towards profiting from price spikes. Notably, the Bank Nifty remains strong, indicating potential for additional growth.

Quote of the day by James Cameron offers a valuable reminder that inspiration is both unpredictable and fleeting. A powerful idea may arrive during a carefully planned creative session, but it may just as easily appear during a casual conversation, an unexpected encounter, or an ordinary moment that initially seems insignificant.

According to Raamdeo Agrawal of Motilal Oswal, Indian equities may yield a promising fifteen percent annual return over the upcoming five years. However, foreign investors are currently drawn to more dynamic markets like South Korea and the US, deterred by India's capital gains tax and currency instability.

Horizon Industrial Parks plans a

Reversion to a cold-blooded metabolism may have saved the crocodile lineage from extinction 66 million years ago when an asteroid ended the lines of most dinosaurs, except, of course, the birds.

VWM causes progressive loss of motor and intellectual abilities and can lead to early death. There is currently no approved treatment that can stop or slow the progression of the disease, according to Amsterdam UMC.

India's economy likely grew over seven percent in the first quarter of fiscal year twenty twenty seven. Resilient consumption and exports supported this robust economic expansion during the period. Government capital expenditure also played a significant role in driving overall economic activity. High frequency indicators suggest healthy domestic volume growth across sectors. Economists anticipate a slight moderation in growth during subsequent quarters.

When a young Mark Zuckerberg held meetings with investors just months after Trayvon Martins death, his hoodie raised eyebrows for different reasons.

Quote of the day by Bonnie Tyler reminds us that one of the greatest advantages in life is discovering something that genuinely inspires us to keep going. Motivation becomes more sustainable when effort is connected to purpose, curiosity, and personal meaning. Not everyone will immediately find a career that feels like a calling, and even those who do will experience difficult days. Yet the search itself can be valuable.

An Israeli minister advocated for killing dozens in Gaza nightly. Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir made these controversial remarks on a podcast. He criticized the prime minister's approach to the ongoing conflict. These statements have surfaced amid rising political tensions. Such comments often draw international condemnation and scrutiny.

Prime Minister Modi encouraged MSMEs to utilize India's numerous free trade agreements. These pacts offer significant opportunities for small businesses to expand globally. Exporters believe converting agreements into actual export orders is now the key. India has finalized trade pacts with approximately forty countries since 2014. This expansion aims to increase the global reach of Indian products.

The government is discussing a 50 basis point reduction in interest subvention for Kisan Credit Card loans. This move aims to align subsidies with recent policy rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of India. Banks currently receive a 1.5% subsidy to offer loans at a 7% interest rate. Discussions are preliminary and part of extending the scheme until 2031-32. Farmers repaying promptly will continue to receive additional interest benefits.

A Chinese container vessel has begun a new weekly service to Europe. This route through the Arctic significantly cuts shipment times in half. The Dubai Tower vessel departed Ningbo on Saturday evening heading north. It is expected to reach the United Kingdom on September 7. Environmental groups express concerns about potential acceleration of polar ice melt.

For those lacking in manan or deep thinking, the best alternative is to grasp the significance of 'chai pe charcha' or tea party. Ideas flow freely during 'chai pe charcha'. Every participant feels they have an equal right to express their views. At that moment, it's the 'chai' that wields authority. Every sip is thought-provoking.