The Economic Times

Assam's Chief Minister has called on long-term residents to officially declare Assamese as their primary language. He emphasized that residents in the Barak Valley and tribal communities can choose freely. The government's focus is on promoting and preserving indigenous languages for future development, alongside substantial investments in infrastructure and social welfare. Moreover, the government's commitment to combatting child marriage remains unwavering.

Such a transfer would cause serious harm ... to our bilateral relations with Washington and Ankara, spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement.

Weather Tomorrow August 16: India's weather on August 16 will see monsoon influence with cloudy skies and rainfall. Delhi expects light rain and moderate temperatures, while Haryana may have afternoon showers. Rajasthan and Gujarat anticipate partly cloudy conditions and isolated thunderstorms. Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh will experience cloudy weather and light to heavy rain. Jammu and Kashmir is forecast for moderate rain, lightning, and gusty winds.

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will play aggressively at the World Championships. The Indian pair aims for a better medal on home soil. Satwik manages a recurring shoulder injury which causes frustration. They will focus on the first four strokes of each rally. The duo embraces the home crowd and the challenge ahead.

The Chief Minister also announced that the 'Indira Gandhi Matri Shishu Sankalp Yojana' would be launched on a pilot basis from October 2 in 21 ICDS blocks across the state. The scheme aims to strengthen nutritional support for mothers, women and children.

India secured a 3-1 victory against Wales in their opening World Cup match. Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored two penalty-corner goals to establish an early lead. India extended their advantage to three goals after the break with another penalty-corner conversion. Wales managed to score a consolation goal in the final minutes of play. This win places India at the top of Pool D in the tournament.

A secret underground bunker was built beneath The Greenbrier resort in West Virginia. This facility was designed to shelter Congress during a nuclear attack on Washington. For over thirty years, its existence remained hidden from the public and guests. The bunker contained essential facilities to sustain government operations for ninety days.

The Indian athletics team will hold a short acclimatisation camp at the University of Tsukuba near Tokyo ahead of the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. The team is expected to leave India on September 12 or 13 after the Indian Athletics Final Series. Before that, Asian Games-bound athletes will train in Bhubaneswar and compete in the Indian Open World Athletics Silver Level event on August 22. The Athletics Federation of India has also submitted a squad of over 72 athletes to the Indian Olympic Assoc

Quote of the Day by Tom Cruise: Tom Cruises quote, I feel lonely at times, but I dont want to get into a relationship with someone if it is not right, explores the importance of emotional honesty, patience, and self-respect in relationships. The quote suggests that loneliness should not lead a person into an unsuitable relationship, and that genuine companionship should be based on trust, compatibility, and meaningful emotional connection rather than simply avoiding being alone.

The BJP accused Sonia Gandhi of objecting to the full Vande Mataram at a Congress event. Congress denied this, stating she sought a chair for Mallikarjun Kharge. BJP leaders criticised the Congress's stance on the national song. Congress cited historical reasons for singing only initial stanzas previously. The full version was reportedly sung at the event without controversy.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced several welfare initiatives for state employees. He also detailed plans for improved healthcare and employment opportunities for the youth. The government will enhance incentives for ASHA workers and revise remuneration for NHM staff. New schemes will focus on nutrition for mothers and children across the state. These measures aim to boost self-employment and economic growth within Himachal Pradesh.

US aircraft carriers are stretched thin by operations against Iran. The USS George Washington is moving from the Pacific to the Middle East. This shift leaves the western Pacific without a key American warship. China may exploit this absence to assert its regional influence. Analysts note the strain on sailors and a shift in US focus.

Devdutt Padikkal struck his maiden test hundred for India against Sri Lanka. He propelled the tourists to a commanding 288-2 on the opening day. Opener KL Rahul also contributed a composed 77 before retiring hurt. Padikkal and Rahul built a significant 150-run partnership for the second wicket. Rishabh Pant remained unbeaten on 27 as play concluded.

A resident from Bangalore recently shared a video that vividly illustrated the severe traffic jams faced daily. A mere three-kilometer journey turned into a grueling ninety-minute ordeal. While pointing out the appalling state of the roads, he did not intend to criticize the city but rather expressed his love for Bangalore and concerns over how traffic conditions could negatively affect local businesses.

Australia trails Bangladesh by sixty-seven runs after day three of the first Test match. Josh Hazlewood believes a win remains possible if the pitch offers variable bounce. Bangladesh's bowlers made crucial inroads into Australia's top order on Saturday. Cameron Green and Alex Carey held firm to keep Australia in the contest. Australia needs to overcome a first innings deficit of two hundred twenty-eight runs.

India's engineering services exports have experienced impressive growth, climbing to USD 13.77 billion in 2024-25, showcasing a dramatic increase since 2014-15. Meanwhile, imports of engineering services have remained fairly consistent. A report by NITI Aayog emphasizes the vital role this sector plays in employment and suggests the creation of a centralized statutory framework for engineers to enhance industry standards.

In a concerning development, oil pollution has stretched across nearly twelve kilometers of Oman's coastline. Fortunately, Masirah Island remains safe from the ongoing spill. The oil, having drifted weeks at sea, began to reach shore on Wednesday. Response teams are actively working to mitigate the effects of the leaking tanker, while the slick progressively moves towards the open waters.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu disbursed over twenty crore rupees in welfare aid. This assistance benefited nearly five thousand construction workers across various schemes. Marriage and education assistance schemes provided significant financial support to many families. Medical, funeral, and maternity aid were also distributed to eligible beneficiaries. The Chief Minister also honored a doctor for his substantial societal contribution.

Delhi's Master Plan 2047 proposes developing Multi-Modal Transport Hubs for integrated transit services. These hubs will combine metro, bus, and railway facilities at single locations. Three initial sites, including Anand Vihar-Karkardooma, will be developed as these transit centers. The plan allows for integrating non-contiguous land parcels using skywalks and subways. Intelligent transport systems will also be implemented to enhance passenger movement and traffic management.

Researchers developed a new molecule for recovering gold from electronic waste. This molecule uses electricity to drive the separation process, removing chemical steps. It selectively binds metal ions and carries a permanent electrical charge. This innovation significantly reduces chemical consumption and waste generation.

The BJP praised PM Modis Independence Day address as a comprehensive roadmap for Viksit Bharat 2047, focusing on self-reliance, youth empowerment, technology, defence, manufacturing and energy security. Senior leaders highlighted his Saptadhara vision, AI training for youth, expansion of nuclear power and semiconductors, and the governments efforts to combat drugs and Naxalism.

Quote of the Day by Antonio Banderas: Antonio Banderass quote, One thing I have clear is that I dont want to work for money anymore, explores the importance of finding purpose and fulfillment beyond financial success. The quote suggests that work should not be driven solely by money, but should also bring meaning, passion, personal satisfaction, and a sense of purpose into a persons life.

Iran's Armed Forces General Staff appealed to the Red Cross for pilot release. They claim three Iranian pilots are being held by Qatar authorities. These pilots were reportedly held after their aircraft were hit during a mission. The mission targeted what Iran described as an enemy military base. Qatari authorities have not yet confirmed the incident or the pilots' detention.

Saina Nehwal believes India must rank high in medal tallies to be a true sporting nation. She notes significant progress for women in sports over the past decade. Adequate financial backing and early support are crucial for young athletes across all disciplines. Improved promotion, marketing, and sponsorships are needed to nurture more talent. Better psychological and physical support systems will help produce more champions.

A shooting incident at Virginia State University led to a campus lockdown early Saturday morning. Multiple suspects and victims were involved in the incident near the university's Quad Annexes. Campus and Chesterfield County police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting event. Several injured individuals were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment. Fortunately, none of the reported injuries appeared to be life-threatening for those affected.

A nine-year study explored beehive fences deterring elephants from farms near Tsavo East National Park. These fences successfully reduced crop raids by an average of seventy-six percent over the study period. The method relies on elephants avoiding disturbed bees, offering a nature-based conflict resolution. However, drought significantly impacted bee colony health and honey production, reducing effectiveness. Researchers concluded beehive fences are a useful tool within a broader conflict manag

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the UP T20 League's fourth edition. The event celebrated the state's athletic potential and Prime Minister Modi's vision. This league provides a platform for over 250 young players to showcase their talent. Former cricketers are also finding opportunities in administrative and technical roles. The tournament features 34 matches across two venues until September 6.

India reached 197 for one wicket at Tea on day one. Devdutt Padikkal and KL Rahul added 150 runs for the second wicket. Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32 runs in the first session. Padikkal scored 84 and Rahul made 77 not out. The pair steadied the innings after an early wicket.

Ukraine launched a large-scale missile attack on Samara's industrial infrastructure. Kyiv's forces used Flamingo missiles to strike the Progress Center facility. Russia reported shooting down hundreds of Ukrainian drones across its regions. Meanwhile, a Russian strike killed a baby in Marhanets, Ukraine.

Paris Saint-Germain has signed Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a five-year contract. The French club reportedly paid fifty million euros for the World Cup hero. Torres previously played for Barcelona after joining from Manchester City in 2022. He reunites with coach Luis Enrique, who gave him his international debut. This signing bolsters PSG's already strong attacking options for the season.

'Hormuz a US territory soon': Trump's blunt warning to Iran; Tehran roars back, 'we are the rulers'

Italian Proverb of the Day: Silence is worth more than a thousand words explores the power of restraint, reflection and thoughtful communication. The proverb reminds us that silence can sometimes express grief, respect, disagreement or understanding more effectively than speech. Its enduring lesson is not to avoid speaking, but to recognise when remaining silent can communicate more clearly than words.

Bangladesh is nearing a significant Test cricket victory against Australia. Australia trails by sixty-seven runs with four wickets down at stumps. Cameron Green and Alex Carey are batting to keep Australia afloat. Bangladesh needs six wickets to secure its first Test win in Australia. This series marks the start of a busy international cricket schedule.

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi urged planning for Viksit Bharat by 2047. He noted only two decades remain to achieve this ambitious national goal. The state government is committed to welfare and development for all citizens. New hostels and safety measures are being implemented for vulnerable communities. Gujarat is a role model, providing significant employment opportunities for young people.

India's High Commission in Fiji initiated a global Tiranga relay on Independence Day. This unique campaign digitally relayed the tricolour across multiple time zones. Twenty-one Indian missions participated in this symbolic journey of the rising sun. The initiative reinforced the message that the Tiranga transcends geographical boundaries worldwide. The campaign concluded with celebrations at the Indian consulate in San Francisco.

The Vande Bharatam initiative concluded with over 26,000 applications from across India. This program identified and supported innovators from smaller cities and grassroots communities. Selected innovators received mentorship and industry access to scale their ventures. The initiative showcased the extraordinary depth of talent present nationwide. Its Grand Finale was held in Ahmedabad on August 14.

German Proverb of the Day: No master has ever fallen from the sky offers a timeless lesson on learning, patience and perseverance. The proverb reminds us that expertise does not appear overnight. Every master begins as a beginner, and skill develops through practice, mistakes, experience and the willingness to keep improving over time.

A Pune CEO shared the inspiring journey of his personal trainer Akash, who started earning at 13 and has now bought his first 2BHK home at 30 after building a successful career in fitness.

Mexican Proverb of the Day: The drop that made the glass overflow explains how repeated frustrations can build over time until one final incident pushes a person beyond their limit. The proverb offers a timeless lesson on patience, accumulated pressure and knowing when enough is enough.

Odisha's BJD party is planning legal action and public demonstrations against the recently passed Mines and Minerals (Amendment) Bill, which they argue will severely impact the state's fiscal autonomy and developmental plans. The BJD contends the bill restricts states' powers to levy taxes on mineral rights, potentially causing significant revenue losses.

A 5.0 magnitude earthquake struck Granada, Spain, causing damage to buildings. The tremor occurred early Saturday morning, waking residents and prompting many calls. Isolated damage is being assessed, especially in vulnerable structures across the region. Emergency services urged citizens to remain calm and avoid damaged facades. Images showed rubble on streets and smashed car windows after the event.

Corporate governance may be struggling to keep pace with the speed at which business risks are changing, independent director Richa Arora has argued. She said boards need to move beyond legacy frameworks and question assumptions that may no longer fit an environment shaped by AI, technology, climate change and geopolitical uncertainty.

An Indian NRI has shared his financial journey on social media, detailing how his career progressed from a Rs 10 lakh annual salary to a net worth of around Rs 7.5 crore at 37. After moving to the Middle East, he said he accumulated substantial savings, cleared a home loan and bought two additional properties, taking his total Mumbai homes to three.