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Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
In 1800, an Italian physicist came up with the first chemical battery of the world unlocking modern electrical science. Alessandro Volta invented the voltaic pile, which produced a continuous flow of electric current. His work showed that electricity could come from chemical reactions between metals and an electrolyte. The invention helped scientists study electrochemistry and electromagnetism and led to later electrical technologies.
The legendary saga of Santiago Flight 513, which began circulating in 1989, paints a chilling picture of a flight that vanished in 1954 and resurfaced 35 years later. Allegedly, the plane returned with skeletons still in their seats, yet a thorough investigation reveals a lack of concrete evidence supporting this eerie tale. This story serves as a reminder of how easily fictional narratives can gain traction in the digital age.
Angel Number Day 8/21 is a numerological interpretation of August 21 that explores the symbolic significance of the numbers 8, 2 and 1. It is best viewed as a spiritual or reflective framework, rather than a scientific method for predicting future events.
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A Delhi study reveals mosquitoes surviving common insecticide treatments. This survival gap suggests a potential early warning of developing resistance. Researchers identified specific enzymes aiding the mosquitoes' detoxification processes. This finding necessitates careful monitoring and adaptation of control strategies. Public health teams must track enzyme activity and field mortality to adapt.
Ram Temple construction will be finished by September 30 this year. Larsen & Toubro and Tata representatives will leave the premises by October 30. The auditorium and museum construction is scheduled for completion by March 2027. IIT Madras experts will convert museum storylines into video form. The museum will open to visitors around February-March next year.
In 1776, 17-year-old Connecticut teenager David Maltbie secretly crossed into British-controlled Long Island as a spy. Posing as a schoolteacher, he gathered intelligence for the American cause, was captured and sentenced to hang, but escaped before his execution. His remarkable story echoes Nathan Hales failed espionage mission during the American Revolution.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged closer collaboration across government departments and universities. He emphasized adopting a long-term approach for India's future evolution. The Prime Minister also advocated for greater artificial intelligence use while retaining human judgment. He highlighted data as a national asset and called for improved interoperability solutions. Modi stressed breaking down silos and fostering stronger inter-departmental coordination.
Quote of the Day by John D. Rockefeller: I never placed my head upon the pillow at night without reminding myself that my success might only be temporary... Great achievement often breeds dangerous complacency. Rockefeller knew that market victory is inherently fragile. Every evening, he forced himself to remember that enterprise fortunes can vanish without constant vigilance. This daily habit of deliberate humility anchored his business legacy. It redirected his energy from past wins to tomorro
Abhijeet Dipke of CJP demanded Minister Dada Bhuse's resignation over poor school conditions. He stated students receive worse facilities than ministers' dogs, highlighting lack of basic amenities. Dipke urged voters to prioritize education and hold leaders accountable for student welfare. He criticized politicians for focusing on religion instead of children's futures. The CJP also raised concerns about safe access to schools and unhygienic conditions.
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Removing excess oil from your dishes doesnt have to be a daunting task. One simple method is skimming oil from the top of your curries to achieve a cleaner finish. Another handy technique involves using a spoon with ice cubes, which helps pull unwanted fat from warm meals. Draining fried foods on kitchen paper will also soak up extra grease.
Greenstone, Milton Friedman Distinguished Service Professor in Economics at the University of Chicago, says air pollution is shortening lives and causing economic losses, while fossil fuels remain cheap because their climate and health costs are largely ignored. He proposes rich countries compensate poorer nations for climate damage in exchange for carbon pricing. He credits Chinas public pressure for cleaner air and low-carbon progress, while saying India needs stronger political demand for cle
Delhis Master Plan 2047 envisions a greener, technology-driven transport network featuring air taxis, air pods and inland waterways. The blueprint proposes expanded Metro, high-speed rail and RRTS networks, revamped railway stations, cleaner fuels, unified ticketing, AI-based traffic management, improved cycling and walking infrastructure, and stronger links to major airports and neighbouring cities.
For these three Zodiac Signs, financial success comes with a message: don't wait for luck to do all the work. The final days of Eclipse Season can reveal what needs to change, while Mercury in Virgo encourages practical action.
Quote of the day by Eric Clapton: Eric Clapton found music became a personal healer during difficult family times. He learned to listen deeply, which helped him process fear and confusion. Clapton began playing guitar as a teenager and joined the Yardbirds in 1963. He later formed Cream and achieved international success with their unique sound.
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The Jharkhand High Court on Thursday stayed government notifications cancelling appointments made through the 11th and 13th JPSC examinations, as well as the recruitment of food safety officers. The order provides relief to around 450 candidates, allowing them to continue in service pending the states response and investigation.
Federal agents seized Eric Swalwell's electronic devices at San Francisco airport. They then searched his Washington home as part of an ongoing investigation. These actions add a new legal dimension to prior misconduct allegations. The former congressman has consistently denied all accusations made against him. This federal probe ensures the allegations remain under intense scrutiny.
Rory McIlroy stated LIV Golf players should not expect easy PGA Tour returns. He questioned the value LIV players brought to the breakaway circuit. Brooks Koepka rejoined the PGA Tour, but other opportunities may have closed. LIV Golf faces financial uncertainty and a tight investor timeline. Players who previously declined offers may find a tougher path back.
Quote of the day by Kesha: American singer Kesha encourages embracing fun in everyday activities and creative pursuits. She believes people should not overthink makeup, clothes, or music, but simply enjoy them. Kesha's early life involved a strong musical influence from her songwriter mother, Pebe Sebert.
Quote of the day by Julianne Moore explores the meaning of love, trust and emotional vulnerability. Her words explain why loving someone means accepting the possibility of emotional pain while choosing to trust them. The quote also offers life lessons about courage, mutual respect, openness and the choices people make in relationships when fear and trust come into conflict.
A KPMG employee in New Jersey Tina Bonnano turned to soft retirement after serious illness, brain fog and burnout made her 50- to 60-hour workweeks unsustainable. She now works about 20 hours a week while keeping key employment benefits, giving her more time to focus on hobbies, writing and her well-being.
John Paul DeJoria's inspiring journey from the depths of poverty and homelessness to co-founding both John Paul Mitchell Systems and Patrn Spirits exemplifies triumph. His immense success hasn't dulled his commitment to philanthropy; he donates half of his wealth to support charitable endeavors. DeJoria's mantra highlights persistence, loyalty to customers, and environmental stewardship. Ultimately, he defines success through collaborative prosperity and positive contributions to society.
Anand Mahindra has been reappointed to the Reserve Bank of India's central board. Former ISRO Chairman S Somanath also joins the board for a four-year term. Their appointments are effective from August 20, 2026, according to the RBI. Mahindra's reappointment ensures continuity and brings diverse business experience. Somanath's technological expertise will aid the central bank's digital focus.
Anticipating a baby girl in 2026? Parents can find a wealth of beautiful Asian names to consider. Japanese names often highlight elements of nature, such as flowers and light, providing poetic options. Meanwhile, Indian and Sanskrit names convey ideals of beauty, wisdom, and prosperity. Names from Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Persian cultures enhance this rich selection, emphasizing values of kindness, heritage, and personal significance.
Portuguese proverb of the day: You cannot cover up the sun with a sieve explains why obvious facts cannot be hidden with weak excuses. The proverb focuses on truth, honesty, reality and the futility of denial. It teaches people to face problems, accept facts and avoid using small lies to hide major mistakes or events.
Quote of the Day by Charlie Sheen: Charlie Sheens quote, The best way to not get your heart broken, is pretending you dont have one, explores the importance of emotional protection, vulnerability, and self-preservation in relationships. The quote suggests that people may try to avoid heartbreak by hiding their feelings, appearing emotionally detached, or pretending that love and relationships do not affect them, even though this approach can also prevent genuine emotional connection and meaningf
On Friday, August 21, Punjab will see a significant seven-hour bandh from 7 am to 2 pm. The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has organized this shutdown as part of its efforts to secure the release of Sikh prisoners. Expect markets and shops to remain closed during this time, while public transport may be disrupted. However, essential services will continue, and educational institutions are likely to remain operational unless otherwise decided.
US Ambassador Gor stated Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India. Pakistan protested these remarks by summoning the US charge d'affaires. The BJP welcomed the statement as a diplomatic achievement for India. Congress stated the US diplomat merely stated the obvious fact. Other political leaders offered differing interpretations of the US ambassador's comments.
Pakistan's transboundary pollution contributes nearly thirty-three percent to Delhi's annual PM2.5 levels. Local sources account for twenty-eight percent of the National Capital Region's air pollution. Punjab's air quality also faces significant influence from Pakistan, with forty percent of its PM2.5 originating there. Residential activities are a major driver of pollution in both regions. Coordinated emission reductions across multiple sectors are essential for improving air quality.
Quote of the day by Dan Brown: Author Dan Brown observes technology's profound impact on human interaction and relationships. His novels, including The Da Vinci Code, explore themes of technology and mystery. Brown's early life and education shaped his interest in covert intelligence agencies. The Robert Langdon series continues with The Secret of Secrets in 2025.
The Eclipse Week of August 24-30 isn't necessarily about luck arriving in the form of instant rewards. For these Zodiac Signs, luck may look more like clarity, timing and the courage to choose differently.
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Over the centuries, this space has attracted important figures, St. Catherine of Siena and the Renaissance painter Fra Angelico, both of whom are buried in the adjoining basilica.
Chinas robotics industry is rapidly moving from flashy demonstrations to real-world deployment, giving it a potential edge in the global robot race. While the US remains stronger in AI and advanced robotics, China has a major advantage in manufacturing scale, supply chains and a huge domestic market.
Punjab Bandh news: A federation of private schools announced a holiday for August 21. Panjab University rescheduled exams planned for that same day. The Qaumi Insaf Morcha called for a state-wide shutdown on Friday. This bandh aims to press for the release of Sikh prisoners. Several organizations have extended their support to the bandh call.
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The government has amended its Foreign Trade Policy to ease rupee invoicing for exporters. Eligible rupee receipts now qualify for export benefits and obligations, aligning with new regulations. This change applies to exports to all countries, with specific rules for ACU members. Rupee settlements may reduce costs and risks for Indian exporters. The amendment aims to support wider international use of the Indian rupee.
Tidal groundwater moves freely beneath Runit Dome in the Marshall Islands. Built over a nuclear crater, the 115-meter concrete structure holds 85,000 cubic meters of radioactive waste. Now, rising Pacific sea levels raise severe environmental concerns about its future. Water continuously flows through its porous limestone base into the lagoon. Local leaders worry rising ocean tides could soon trigger a major nuclear catastrophe.
Refusing to start a new notebook until the old one is finished may be about much more than stationery. It can reflect thrift, routine, organization, continuity or a desire to avoid waste. Psychologically, though, it may also provide a satisfying sense of closure that comes from completing what was started.
Kuldeep Yadav faced challenges on the Galle pitch, taking no wickets in his eleven overs. He was India's third spin option behind Jadeja and Suthar, who claimed fourteen wickets. The think tank may replace Kuldeep with off-spinner Saransh Jain for the upcoming Test. Former spinner L Sivaramakrishnan advised focusing on line, length, and natural speeds. Lack of preparation might have also hindered Kuldeep's performance in the first match.
Delhi Master Plan 2047 is approved for planned real estate development. The plan aims to create forty lakh new affordable housing units. Transit-Oriented Development will strengthen public transport corridors and urban connectivity. Redevelopment of existing areas will be encouraged with reduced area requirements. This plan provides a framework for Delhi's future growth and liveability.
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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso stated Enzo Fernandez is preparing well for their upcoming Premier League opener. He confirmed Fernandez is a Chelsea player and training integrally with the team. British media reported Manchester City's interest in the Argentine midfielder. Alonso avoided confirming if Fernandez expressed a desire to stay with the club. The manager's first league match pits him against Fulham's new manager Arbeloa.

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