The Economic Times

Chennamma Deve Gowda, wife of former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, passed away on Saturday. She was admitted to Manipal Hospital for a respiratory ailment and suffered a cardiac arrest. Chennamma was the survivor of an acid attack in February 2001. She married H D Deve Gowda in 1954 and had four sons and two daughters. Despite her prominent family, she largely stayed away from the public spotlight.

Opposition leaders criticised the Centre's handling of Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike. They called the action irresponsible and shameful, amounting to suppressing democratic dissent. Delhi Police moved Wangchuk to a hospital after his health deteriorated on the 21st day. Leaders stated the protest would continue regardless of actions taken against the activist. They urged the government to engage in sensitive discussions with the protesters.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took a swipe at Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, alleging he lacked vision and rarely met people during his tenure as chief minister. Addressing a rally in Bulandshahr, Adityanath contrasted the BJP government's welfare initiatives with the previous SP regime, accusing it of neglecting farmers, youth and the poor.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh aims to unite people after ethnic violence. He visited Jiribam district twice to foster peace among various communities. Peace efforts faced setbacks following a bomb blast incident in Bishenpur district. Singh believes vested interests are hindering the return of peace in the state. He expressed confidence that honesty and sincerity will ultimately prevail over disruptions.

A powerful blast at an illegal firecracker factory in Ahmedabad killed four people. Several other individuals sustained injuries in the devastating incident which also triggered a fire. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragic loss of lives. The Prime Minister's Office announced financial assistance for the affected families. The local administration is actively providing all necessary support to those impacted.

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar may direct a biopic on Lachit Borphukan. This legendary Ahom commander is celebrated for his military prowess. He led the Ahom army to a significant victory at Saraighat. This historic battle halted Mughal expansion into Assam. The film aims to introduce his legacy to a wider audience.

Quote of the day by Zendaya: Zendaya's quote encourages people to embrace their authentic selves rather than seeking validation from others. It highlights that genuine confidence comes from self-acceptance and appreciating one's unique qualities, rather than trying to fit in or stand out. The message is especially relevant in today's digital age, where social media often creates pressure to conform to trends and expectations.

Quote of the Day by Sydney Sweeney offers a timeless life lesson reminder that growth begins with curiosity. Humility, active listening, mentorship, and openness to different perspectives allow individuals to continue learning throughout life. Success is rarely built through knowledge alone; it grows through meaningful connections and the wisdom shared by others. By remaining teachable and valuing the experiences of those around us, we create opportunities not only to achieve more but also to be

Indian Air Force Rafale jets are participating in Australia's Pitch Black exercise. This premier multinational air combat exercise involves nineteen nations and enhances interoperability. The event will sharpen operational synergy and facilitate the exchange of best practices. Multiple Rafale jets and C-17 Globemaster aircraft form the Indian contingent. The exercise is scheduled to take place in Darwin from July 20 to August 7.

Parliament's Monsoon Session begins Monday amid expectations of a stormy showdown, with the government pushing key bills, including a renewed Constitution Amendment Bill on women's reservation and delimitation.

George Washington's quote emphasizes responsible choices over mere agreeableness. Leaders must prioritize public good, not personal comfort, when deciding. Saying no when necessary protects collective interests and upholds integrity. This timeless wisdom guides leaders in professional and personal spheres. Balancing compassion with accountability defines true leadership and ethical action.

Stephen Constantine believes Pele, Maradona, and Ronaldinho surpass Lionel Messi in football greatness. He noted Messi's team effectively plays with ten men when he lacks possession. Constantine backed Spain to win the final against Argentina, citing their collective play. England's coach Thomas Tuchel received backing despite the team's semifinal exit. Hydration breaks and refereeing decisions also drew commentary from the former India coach.

US Iran war: Incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham faces a critical day one decision. He must decide on supporting ongoing US strikes against Iran. British bases have been used for defensive strikes aimed at Iran. Officials are concerned about US threats to civilian infrastructure. Burnham will be briefed on the serious situation.

Delayed military orders and a lack of basic equipment hampered Venezuela's earthquake response. Confusion and weak command chains also contributed to the slow deployment of troops. Civilians initially led rescue efforts, using rudimentary tools to aid victims. International teams and some soldiers later joined, with soldiers volunteering for the work. Years of economic crisis have reportedly reduced the military's operational readiness.

African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of You can learn a lot about someone by observing him when he is hungry. The saying reflects the idea that a person's true character often becomes most visible during moments of discomfort, need, or adversity. While hunger refers to the physical need for food, it also symbolizes stress, desire, and hardship. The proverb suggests that the way people behave when their patience, emotions, or self-control are tested reveals far more about their value

Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain will serve as Indias flag bearer and baton bearer, respectively, at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony. Mirabai, an Olympic silver medallist and decorated weightlifter, and Lovlina, an Olympic bronze medallist and leading boxer, have represented India with distinction at major international competitions.

Almost every fridge in India comes with a little egg tray on the door. It looks convenient, it keeps things organised, and most people use it without a second thought. Turns out, it is one of the more common kitchen mistakes. Here is what the research says.

Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu has shared his thoughts on the factors that contribute to daily happiness. He emphasised the importance of surrounding oneself with agreeable company while also being someone others enjoy spending time with. Vembu also highlighted the need to keep the mind free from suffering thoughts that can trap people in endless negative loops.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk is refusing medical treatment in hospital after a hunger strike. He shows signs of dehydration and metabolic abnormalities while doctors monitor him. His wife has requested no treatment without her consent and sought his discharge. Wangchuk began his fast to protest examination irregularities and student deaths.

The UN General Assembly will likely adopt a resolution in September 2026. This resolution will formally declare December 5th as World Competition Day. The Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Competition Law and Policy agreed to advance this proposal. This recognition stems from the UNGA's adoption of the UN Set in 1980.

Tamil Nadu's first budget under the new administration will be presented in early August. Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has been holding extensive review meetings with ministers and officials. The government aims to facilitate education loans for over one lakh students by 2026-27. Financial constraints will not prevent students from pursuing higher education opportunities. Allegations of corruption in appointments were rejected, with the Chief Minister monitoring the process.

Marie Curie's notebooks remain radioactive more than a century later because they were contaminated with radium-226, an element with a half-life of around 1,600 years. As a result, the manuscripts require special handling, with researchers wearing protective equipment to access them. Marie and Pierre Curie worked under extremely challenging conditions to isolate radium, and their groundbreaking discoveries went on to transform science, medicine and our understanding

World Cup final caps a tournament where fans paid record prices. Ticket buyers defied expectations and paid sky-high prices for all matches. FIFA's gamble paid off as demand exceeded initial concerns about prices. Dynamic pricing and resale markets further inflated costs for attendees. This event became a World Cup for a select few with high purchasing power.

Herman Srgel proposed damming the Mediterranean Sea to create new land. This ambitious Atlantropa project aimed to generate vast hydroelectric power. The plan envisioned a unified Europe and Africa connected by infrastructure. However, engineering challenges and political will prevented its construction. The idea resurfaces today as a fascinating historical what if.

While not everyone enjoys outdoor activities in the same way, spending time in green spaces can offer meaningful mental health benefits for many people. Sometimes, a simple picnic in the park provides exactly what the brain needs, a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the present moment.

Stephen Constantine voiced disappointment over India's football decline and his own exclusion. He believes structural reforms and better league management are crucial for progress. Constantine suggested India must dominate its region before aspiring for the World Cup. He questioned the value of playing friendlies against New Zealand. The former coach also commented on the expanded World Cup format.

Skyroot Aerospace's successful Vikram-1 mission marks India's entry into the global commercial launch market through a private company. Beyond the technological milestone, it opens access to a growing multi-billion-dollar industry driven by rising satellite demand. The challenge now shifts from reaching orbit to building a reliable launch business that can compete internationally.

US lawmakers and experts urged a review of arms sales to India. They cited concerns over alleged transnational repression impacting national security. A bipartisan bill was proposed to address this growing foreign government tactic. Experts warned of organized crime networks used for intimidation and violence. Strategic partnerships should not shield governments from accountability for their actions.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman encouraged young entrepreneurs to build boldly for India's future. She emphasized creating value and embracing uncertainty for future generations. India offers a stable government and an approachable administration for businesses. The nation is projected to contribute significantly to global economic growth. Entrepreneurs are urged to seize opportunities and drive prosperity forward.

Spain defender Aymeric Laporte expressed surprise at refereeing decisions favoring Argentina's aggressive style. He believes such actions should not go unpunished in important football competitions. Laporte praised Spain's disciplined approach throughout the tournament, avoiding dangerous challenges. Spain will face defending champions Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. This highly anticipated match features Lionel Messi against teenage sensation Yamal.

Crime Branch CID teams searched multiple Dindigul locations on Saturday. These searches relate to the alleged fraudulent registration of temple lands. The temple property was valued at Rs 100 crore but registered for Rs 2 crore. Irregularities came to light during a recent temple authorities' verification. The investigation was transferred to CB-CID following political outrage.

Kapil Dev on Saturday said Rohit Sharma's retirement, whenever it comes, should be celebrated, adding that the Indian skipper has brought immense joy to cricket fans over the years.

Moroccan proverb of the day: A Moroccan proverb highlights wisdom and patience in communication. It suggests ignorance leads to derision, while understanding promotes thoughtful silence. Gaining knowledge before judging others is a key life lesson. This ancient wisdom remains relevant in today's fast-paced digital world. Empathy and verified facts should guide our interactions with others.

A blast partially damaged a Kolkata building, with police suspecting crude bomb materials. One person was detained for questioning, while the prime suspect remains absconding. Remains of multiple crude bombs and raw materials were recovered from the blast site. CCTV footage showed a youth placing a bag inside the room shortly before the explosion. The owner stated the suspect was to rent the room from Monday.

Hundreds protested a proposed data centre in Thane's Balkum area on Saturday. Protesters cited severe environmental and health risks from the facility. They claimed the data centre requires significant water and electricity daily. Continuous noise and temperature increases were also major concerns for residents. A meeting with officials did not resolve the protesters' demands.

The Department of Land Resources is exploring digital land record integration with ULI. This initiative aims to provide faster and secure institutional credit access. Discussions with RBI Innovation Hub focused on leveraging digital public infrastructure for lending. The collaboration seeks to streamline credit delivery for farmers and rural citizens. This integration will enhance transparency and efficiency in the lending ecosystem.

Gitanjali Angmo confirmed the July 20 Parliament march will proceed as planned. Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike continues despite his hospitalisation by Delhi Police. He refused electrolyte powder and is consuming only salt water. Angmo questioned the hospitalisation circumstances, stating it was not ordered by the High Court. The movement has broadened beyond paper leaks to education system reforms.

George Harrison's quote highlights the self-perpetuating nature of hatred. He believed that hatred continues as long as people choose to harbor it. This reflects his lifelong pursuit of peace and spiritual understanding. His words emphasize that breaking this cycle requires conscious individual choices. Empathy and forgiveness offer a path to ending division and fostering peace.

A remote worker says repeated threats of salary cuts every time they relocate have left them afraid to move, despite taking on a heavier workload and seeing coworkers receive raises. The employee shared their dilemma on Reddit ahead of a performance review, asking how to discuss pay and career growth without sounding entitled.

Sharad Pawar deflected speculation about his party's potential split and future alliances. Supriya Sule clarified that no official discussions occurred regarding delimitation issues. She stated the party's stance is determined after internal and INDIA bloc consultations. Rumors of meetings between NCP-SP and ruling NCP leaders fueled speculation. Pawar also addressed farm loan waivers, urging government adherence to announced deadlines.

CJP protest: Chaos broke out at Jantar Mantar after a woman hurled an ink-like liquid at Cockroach Janata Party founder Abhijeet Dipke during a public address, briefly disrupting the gathering. The woman's identity and motive were not immediately known.

LHS 1140 b: Astronomers have confirmed an atmosphere around a rocky exoplanet. This planet, LHS 1140 b, orbits within its star's habitable zone. Researchers detected helium gas in the planet's upper atmospheric layers. This discovery marks a significant step in searching for life beyond Earth. Scientists continue to investigate the exoplanet's full atmospheric composition.

South 24 Parganas district administration demolished Abhishek Banerjee's party office in Amtala. The structure was built without an approved building plan and violated rules. This action followed complaints and notices issued to the concerned parties. BJP workers celebrated the demolition, calling it a lawful action. The land was reportedly purchased in the name of a company called Leaps and Bounds.

President Donald Trump blamed Canada for wildfire smoke affecting the United States. He threatened to add pollution costs to existing tariffs on Canadian goods. Canada's government has invested significantly in forest sustainability and fire prevention efforts. Climate experts link rising temperatures to increased wildfire occurrences in Canada. Thousands of people have been evacuated from affected Canadian communities.

SCTIMST and ISRO's Human Space Flight Centre have partnered for space medicine research. A Center for Space Medicine Research was inaugurated at SCTIMST in November 2025. An Implementing Agreement was signed in June 2026 for a new fellowship program. This postdoctoral fellowship in Bioastronautics is the nation's first of its kind.

Ukrainian drone attacks killed seven warehouse workers in Kotovsk, Tambov region. Another attack injured twenty-four people at a Wildberries warehouse in Elektrostal. Falling drone debris caused a fire at an oil depot in Noginsk. Two people were injured in Noginsk, and a maternity hospital was evacuated. The company expressed condolences to the victims' families after the incidents.

The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina creates a dilemma for many. Long-standing cultural ties and migration link both Spanish and Argentine people. This unique match forces individuals to choose between national loyalties and familial connections. Many express a desire for the best team to win, acknowledging shared heritage. The game highlights the deep, intertwined relationship between these two nations.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Argentina vs Spain: FIFA will award championship rings to the 2026 World Cup winners. This new tradition brings North American sports culture to football's biggest tournament. The winning team will receive 30 custom-designed rings after the final. FIFA is producing only 2,026 rings, with some available for public purchase. This historic change marks a new recognition of football's ultimate achievement.