The Economic Times

Australia leads the World Test Championship standings with seven wins from eight matches. South Africa follows in second place, having secured three wins from four games. New Zealand is third, with four wins from six matches played so far. India, the two-time runners-up, faces pressure after recent defeats. Teams are now focused on strengthening their positions for a top-two finish.

Enforcement Directorate Director Rahul Navin's tenure has been extended by one year. This extension will keep him in his role until August 13, 2027. Navin, an IRS officer, has led the agency since August 2024. His leadership has seen investigations into several high-profile cases. The ED continues its work on financial crimes and asset recovery efforts.

Bihar will establish committees to reform its examination system and study global technology-based models. The government aims to create a leakage-proof assessment process for students across the state. A state-level committee will also enhance the quality of education and transform schools. Direct interactions with students will gather suggestions and address grievances effectively.

Nikhil Kamath's reading list extends beyond finance into psychology and biology. His book selections offer insights into wealth, behavior, and life's complexities. Kamath shared his thoughts on several titles, rating them and explaining their impact. Books like 'The Psychology of Money' and 'Caste' were highlighted. These works explore human behavior, social hierarchies, and mortality.

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh called for Meiteis to be a big brother. He emphasized community unity for protecting Manipur's land historically. Singh highlighted the national flag's role in fostering love for the country. He noted that inter-community mistrust is being sown by certain elements. The chief minister urged participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign for development.

Kuldeep Yadav rested during the warm-up game after a heavy workload, which was precautionary. Other spinners like Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja received extended bowling sessions. The team focused on adapting to local conditions and assessing player fitness for the upcoming series. Shubman Gill recovered well after a hand injury and prepared diligently for the spinners.

US President Trump seeks an exit from the Iran military confrontation, as the conflict proves difficult. The administration may set aside the nuclear issue for Strait of Hormuz reopening. Iran has set new conditions for reopening the strategic waterway, demanding US behavior correction. Financial demands and sanctions remain significant hurdles to any potential settlement.

Quote of the Day by Usher: Ushers quote, Sleeping is forbidden at the age of 22. Its all work and no play, explores the energy, ambition, and determination associated with youth and early adulthood. The quote suggests that the age of 22 can be a time to work hard, pursue dreams, embrace opportunities, and build a strong foundation for the future rather than spending too much time resting or holding back from life.

Football icon Lionel Messi mourned his father's passing after a prolonged cancer battle. His father, Jorge Messi, served as his agent and guiding figure since childhood. Messi returned from Miami to be with his close family for a private ceremony. Teammates from the Argentine national squad rallied around their captain during this difficult time. Messages of sympathy poured in from the global football community for the Messi family.

Betty Bromage, aged ninety-seven, has achieved a new Guinness World Record for wing walking. She completed this record-breaking flight on August fourth, twenty twenty-six, in Gloucestershire, UK. This remarkable feat occurred just one year after she suffered a stroke and recovered. Bromage used the flight to raise funds for the hospital which provided her care. Her adventure demonstrates that age is not a barrier to pursuing exciting experiences.

In 1981-82, the Chatham Island black robin faced dire straits, with just five birds remaining. To combat this decline, wildlife officials implemented cross-fostering, prompting the robins to produce multiple eggs. This remarkable tactic successfully boosted their numbers to twelve. Now, around 300 black robins flourish on Mangere and South East islands, exemplifying a significant triumph in the conservation of endangered wildlife.

Key legislation remains uncertain as Parliament's Monsoon session nears its close. Opposition parties are protesting, demanding statements on student issues and opposing new bills. The government seeks support for women's reservation and delimitation bills, facing mixed responses. The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act amendment bill also faces strong opposition from various groups. Parliament has seen limited business due to ongoing disruptions and adjournments.

iPhone 18 pro news: Apple is preparing for its major September iPhone event. The company expects to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and other new models. This timing aligns with established manufacturing and consumer upgrade patterns. Preparations include an employee lottery for event support at Apple Park. The event signifies a significant product showcase for the company this year.

Quote of the Day by Ralph Macchio: Ralph Macchios quote, The truth is, you have a much richer life if you somehow lead one that you can hold together, explores the importance of balance, stability, and living a meaningful life. The quote suggests that true richness comes from maintaining a life that brings together personal happiness, relationships, responsibilities, and emotional well-being without allowing one area to overwhelm the others.

Sarfaraz Khan joins the Indian Test squad for the Sri Lanka series. He replaces Sai Sudharsan, who suffered an injury and is undergoing rehabilitation. Sudharsan did not travel with the team and missed the warm-up match. The first Test against Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin in Galle. The Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed this squad change on Sunday.

Indian doubles coach Tan Kim confirms Satwiksairaj Rankireddy is fully fit for the championships. The focus for Satwik and Chirag Shetty is to take it one match at a time. Ayush Shetty faces defending champion Shi Yuqi in an exciting first-round match. PV Sindhu has struck form and avoids top seeds before medal rounds. Indian players are encouraged to play confidently and enjoy home support.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh called for unity among Meiteis, Nagas and Kukis and urged communities to work together for peace in the ethnic violence-hit state. Separately, security forces arrested seven militants belonging to banned outfits and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition during operations in several districts.

The Mexican proverb where the devil stuck his tail, nothing is left alone warns that trouble rarely stays contained. Unresolved issues can trigger further complications, affecting more people. Ignoring problems allows them to grow, making them harder to manage. Early action prevents minor disturbances from becoming major crises. Life's interconnectedness means decisions have far-reaching consequences.

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar offered landowners 3 crore or more per acre, or 50% of acquired land as developed plots, for the proposed AI township near Bidadi, as the JD(S)-BJP launched a three-day protest against the project.

Skywatchers in Europe and North America anticipate a total solar eclipse on August 12. A narrow path of totality will cross Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. Partial eclipse views will be available across parts of Europe and the northern United States. Proper eye protection is essential for viewing the partial solar eclipse safely. The next total solar eclipse visible in the US is scheduled for March 30, 2033.

Quote of the Day by Michael J. Fox: Michael J. Foxs quote, If you have doubts about someone, lay on a couple of jokes. If he doesn't find anything funny, your radar should be screaming. Then I would say be patient with people who are negative, because they're really having a hard time, explores the importance of understanding people, recognizing emotional signals, and responding to negativity with patience and compassion. The quote suggests that humor can reveal aspects of a persons character, w

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy urged motorists to stop paying NICE Road toll. The Karnataka High Court made strong observations against the project operator, NICE. Land acquired for public infrastructure was commercially exploited, the court noted. Thousands of landowners have not received compensation for decades. The court also questioned the state government's role in the project.

Psychology says your first guess can stick in your memory even after you learn the correct answer because memory is reconstructive rather than a perfect recording system.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced a fresh probe into the 2024 doctor's rape and murder. This decision came after a request from the deceased doctor's mother, who is a BJP MLA. The investigation will be conducted under the Special Commission Act, 1952. Adhikari alleged police failure in performing their duties regarding this case. A separate inquiry into cremation lapses and action against responsible individuals was also ordered.

Can a simple, relaxing hair wash or spa session at your favourite beauty parlour bring you to the brink of death? According to a Bengaluru-based neurosurgeon, sometimes it indeed can! Taking to Instagram, the doctor decoded the mystery of Beauty Parlour Stroke Syndrome.

The BCCI secretary will review relocating the Duleep Trophy final from the Centre of Excellence. Spectators are currently restricted from attending matches at the BCCI CoE campus. The board has increased the number of live-telecast domestic matches for fans. This move aims to provide more opportunities to watch favorite players and teams. The 2026-27 domestic season begins with the Duleep Trophy in August.

Preventing premature brain ageing is a lifelong process that requires lifestyle overhaul and watching your nutritional intake. Taking to Instagram, a Bengaluru neurosurgeon shared five supplements that can protect brain health.

The Jharkhand Governor has officially approved the resignations of three JPSC members based on the recommendations made by the state government. This decision comes amidst a wave of protests from aspirants decrying discrepancies in the public service examinations held by the JPSC and JSSC. Following the unrest, state officials met with representatives from the protesting groups.

House of the Dragon Season 3 is heading towards its finale with Episode 8, as the Targaryen civil war reaches another major turning point. The episode is expected to focus on the Battle of Tumbleton, while Aegon IIs return with Sunfyre, Ulfs defection and Rhaenyras growing pressure could change the balance between the Greens and the Blacks. Heres the Season 3 finale release date and time in India, where to watch Episode 8 on JioHotstar and what viewers can expect from the final episode.

VVS Laxman was offered the Team India head coach role in 2023. He declined the position due to personal reasons and stayed with the Centre of Excellence. Laxman committed to establishing the CoE's structure and protocols before moving on. The new Centre of Excellence facility was inaugurated in September 2024. Laxman has led the facility since late 2021, expanding its capabilities.

Congress leader KC Venugopal advised caution regarding public statements made by party members. He stressed avoiding remarks that could please the BJP, especially concerning Rahul Gandhi. Venugopal defended Rahul Gandhi's student outreach programs, highlighting Gen Z participation. He alleged government disruption efforts at an Allahabad event for students. Tharoor later clarified his comments were not an attack on the party.

Quote of the Day: Milton Berle's words remain relevant because they challenge one of life's most frustrating habits: waiting for permission. Patience can be valuable, and some opportunities truly depend on the right timing. But there are also moments when waiting too long simply keeps us stuck. Sometimes, moving forward means creating the opportunity ourselves instead of waiting for someone else to open the door.

VVS Laxman confirmed excellent coordination between the Centre of Excellence and selection committees. Selectors regularly receive player fitness reports from the CoE for informed decisions. Injuries are an inevitable part of a cricketer's career, requiring careful management. The BCCI faces challenges filling the vacant Head of Sports Science and Medicine role. The CoE aims to help cricketers achieve excellence beyond just rehabilitation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on all citizens to actively engage in the Har Ghar Tiranga movement, aligning with the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. The Ministry of Culture has appealed for patriotic acts such as flag hoisting and submitting selfies to celebrate the occasion. Events like rallies and concerts will be held to honor the Tricolour, aiming to strengthen national pride and deepen the bond with the flag.

In a recent ruling, Rera instructed Pareena Infrastructure to compensate two homebuyers with Rs 23 lakh for the extended delays in delivering their flats. The builder is given a thirty-day window to complete this payment or incur interest penalties. The homeowners had requested compensation for both mental anguish and financial troubles linked to the delays, resulting in an award that included property appreciation, harassment, and legal fees.

Tom Holland and Zendaya reportedly share a London home after extensive renovations. Zendaya also owns several properties across the United States. Their engagement was confirmed in January 2025, and the wedding has already occurred. The London residence is considered their primary shared living space. Zendaya's US portfolio offers options for their Hollywood commitments.

A parliamentary panel identified gaps in the BharatNet rural broadband program's rollout. Substantial infrastructure exists, yet operational Gram Panchayats remain below the program's goals. The committee called for a comprehensive performance audit to address implementation bottlenecks. They also requested a revised roadmap with clear accountability for full connectivity. Increased focus on Fibre-to-the-Home connections and network utilization was recommended.

Delhi government will soon launch a campaign to free children from begging. This initiative aims to provide a secure future for vulnerable children across thirteen districts. The campaign will counsel families and offer better alternatives to address child beggary. Organized gangs forcing children into begging will also be identified and exposed. Child welfare committees and NGOs will actively support this important program.

India could diversify exports if the US imposes steep tariffs linked to Russian crude purchases, economist SP Sharma said. He estimates a $200-billion opportunity across 15 alternative markets for products India currently exports to the US, including Europe and West Asia.

India achieved a four-wicket victory against Sri Lanka XI in their warm-up match. Skipper Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal led the run-chase with a century partnership. Devdutt Padikkal scored a remarkable 142 not out in India's first innings. Sri Lanka XI posted 200/6 in their second innings before declaring. Mohammed Siraj and Saransh Jain remained unbeaten to seal the win for India.

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy warned that North Korea plans to send up to fifty thousand troops, urging South Korea to enhance its air defense capabilities. North Korea has already contributed thousands of soldiers to Russia's Kursk Region, boosting Russia's efforts in its conflict with Ukraine. In response, Ukraine is looking to strengthen ties and explore potential drone agreements with Seoul.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren pledged transparent justice for protesting youths. He asserted that dialogue, not force, resolves issues and warned against politicizing the student stir. Soren stated that those involved in exam irregularities will face strict action. He urged young people to bring their concerns directly to the government. The ongoing protest entered its sixteenth day with hunger strike participants.

A Gurgaon startup founder's employee was nearly defrauded by an email scammer impersonating him. The impersonator requested gift vouchers worth twenty-five thousand rupees from the unsuspecting employee. This scam attempt was thwarted when the employee verified the request with the actual founder. The incident highlights the growing sophistication of social engineering cyberattacks. Founders are now warned about impersonation tactics targeting their own teams.

Gamma-ray bursts, first detected accidentally in 1967, have long puzzled astronomers. Recent observations of their afterglows are now challenging established theories. These powerful cosmic explosions release extraordinary amounts of energy in mere seconds. Ground-based observatories detect gamma rays indirectly through atmospheric interactions. These new findings suggest the physics behind these events is more complex.