The Economic Times

African proverb of the day highlights the message, Do not laugh at the fallen; you may find slippery roads ahead. The proverb teaches humility, empathy, respect and the reality that life can change without warning. It reminds people not to mock those facing failure or hardship because everyone can experience difficult times. Its meaning continues to guide people in relationships, workplaces, families and communities across different stages of life.

Jobs safe from AI: Americans perceive China leading in artificial intelligence development currently. However, automating many common jobs proves prohibitively expensive for businesses. Nursing assistants and home health aides are among the most costly roles to automate. Cashiering represents a cheaper automation prospect compared to other professions.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike after government assurances. The Centre promised no legal action against peacefully protesting students. This breakthrough resolved the nearly four-week standoff over exam leak protests. Union ministers met Wangchuk, offering him juice to formally end his fast. Wangchuk had begun his protest on June 28 in solidarity with students.

More than 10.83 lakh platform workers had registered on the eShram portalas of July 19, Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje informed the Rajya Sabha. Registrations accelerated sharply in 2025, with 4.58 lakh workers enrolling, compared with 23,746 in 2023 and25,255 in 2024.

Quote of the day by Diane Keaton reminds us that many lasting memories come from simple moments that carry meaning and emotion. The quote encourages people to value the present, accept emotions, and find joy in daily life. It also reflects Diane Keaton's personal outlook shared in her memoir Then Again. Her life and career continue to inspire people through films, writing, and thoughtful reflections.

The government has imposed cumulative penalties of about2,732 croreon contractors and concessionaires for delays in highway project execution over the last three financial years, Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed the Lok Sabha. Of the total penalty amount, around780 crore has been recovered so far.

Today's Jewish proverb of the day has inspired people for centuries because it speaks to a question almost everyone faces: when should you stop waiting and start acting? Drawn from Pirkei Avot 1:14, this timeless saying explores self-responsibility, compassion, purpose, courage, and the value of the present moment. Its wisdom remains just as relevant today, offering practical guidance for better decisions, stronger character, and a more meaningful life.

India's income-tax department has received over thirty-three million income-tax returns for assessment year 2026-27. Nearly twenty million of these returns have already been processed by the department. A significant number of new taxpayers are filing returns after a successful nudge campaign. The department anticipates a sharp rise in filings during the final week. Taxpayers can expect smooth portal operations and 24/7 assistance from the department.

MSME stress deepened in FY26 with closures rising sharply to 62,747 from 39,446 in FY25, impacting over 3.7 lakh jobs. As of June 2026, 18,154 units had shut, affecting 1.25 lakh workers. Despite closures, overall MSME employment grew 16.5% year-on-year to 80.5 million, led by the trading sector, with Uttar Pradesh employing the largest workforce. Delays in highway projects triggered penalties of 2,732 crore over three years, with only 780 crore recovered so far.

The Skill Development Ministry is linking payments to training providers to candidate placement. A 530-crore Skills Outcome Fund will incentivize providers and increase accountability. This initiative aims to help 200,000 youths secure quality employment and improved incomes. The program prioritizes candidates from low-income households and aims for 50% female participation. Focus will be on high-demand sectors and future-oriented job roles for sustainable livelihoods.

Quote of the Day by Henry Cavill: Henry Cavills quote, You can train and train until you are blue in the face, but you've got to diet, you've got to have that leanness because if you are not lean, your abs won't show. Of course, the training has to be put in, but then you've to shed all the fat and keep the fat off. And that's how you get an eight pack, explores the importance of discipline, consistency, and maintaining balance in achieving fitness goals.

Portuguese proverb of the day: A Portuguese saying highlights how stories evolve with each telling. Details can be added or altered as tales pass between people. This natural human tendency means information may change over time. We should consider the source and number of retellings for accuracy. Understanding this helps us critically evaluate information we receive.

The CBI has cleared Sanjeev Kumar, alias Sanjeev Mukhiya, of involvement in the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak. Initially, Bihar Police suspected his involvement due to past examination paper theft cases. The federal agency investigated all individuals connected to the theft and distribution. They also identified every candidate who benefited from the leaked question paper. Multiple chargesheets have been filed against forty-five accused individuals in this case.

Security forces demolished two militant houses in southern Kashmir Wednesday night. This action followed the killing of a J&K Police head constable in Anantnag. Authorities also detained approximately 2,500 individuals across the Kashmir Valley. Political leaders condemned the demolitions and detentions as collective punishment. The Amarnath Yatra security duty head constable was shot dead by a lone attacker.

Recent protests underscore the urgent necessity for comprehensive examination reforms and tackling the issue of paper leaks. Transitioning NEET-UG to a Computer-Based Testing format is among the essential changes proposed. To alleviate student pressure, normalisation methods and limiting attempts could make a significant difference. Its crucial for both the National Medical Commission and the Health Ministry to implement these vital reforms.

Four sources familiar with the matter, including two Iranian sources, Yemen's information minister and a regional security analyst, said Iran transferred the IRGC personnel and military-related equipment on a flight from Tehran to Yemen on July 13, a development that has not been previously reported.

Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera appeared before Assam Police Crime Branch. This appearance is in connection with a defamation case filed by Riniki Bhuyan Sharma. Khera faces allegations regarding multiple passports and undisclosed foreign properties. He is cooperating with the ongoing investigation after receiving a summons. Khera has secured interim protection from arrest from the Supreme Court.

Rival protests by NDA and INDIA bloc MPs occurred at Parliament over the NEET paper leak. Opposition leaders demanded Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation for any discussion. The government offered dialogue, accusing the opposition of stalling proceedings. Parliament faced disruptions for the fourth consecutive day due to the deadlock. Nationwide protests continue, maintaining pressure on the government regarding the exam.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar urged choking terror financing networks at the ASEAN Regional Forum. He stressed zero tolerance for terrorism and consequences for such acts. Jaishankar also called for ensuring international shipping lanes remain safe and open. Attacks on maritime shipping and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable, he stated. India supports a legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

The Centre proposed talks with the Cockroach Janta Party, but a venue dispute arose. The youth-led outfit demanded a neutral location or Jantar Mantar for discussions. They also announced nationwide peaceful protests titled Every District. One Day. One Demand. Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated the government sent four formal proposals for discussions. The government remains ready for talks at any time and at the convenience of the youth.

The Congress leadership, led by Rahul Gandhi, along with Opposition MPs, on Thursday night reached Gandhi Smriti here, paid tributes at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial and expressed solidarity with agitating students through a candlelight march.

West Bengal is conducting statewide raids to eliminate fake birth and death certificates. Officials are verifying and digitizing old birth and death registers across all civic bodies. FIRs have been filed, and legal action is underway against those involved in fraud. Political heads of civic bodies have lost the power to issue these vital documents. A stringent verification system will now ensure certificate authenticity and accountability.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced stricter measures against examination paper leaks. The government will establish fast-track courts for swift trials and punishments. These actions aim to protect the future and aspirations of students nationwide. The Prime Minister emphasized that no leniency will be shown to offenders. Such incidents severely damage the credibility of examination systems.

Delhi Police identified over 480 Pakistan-based social media handles spreading misinformation. These accounts actively circulated rumors and fake videos during the CJP protest. The same handles were also active during the Operation Sindoor incident. Police urged students to verify information and avoid anonymous sources. Authorities respect the right to peaceful protest and seek public cooperation.

Today's quote of the day by Rudyard Kipling speaks to anyone who feels distracted by other people's success or failures. His words remind us that our future is shaped more by our own actions than by comparison. Written more than a century ago, this simple idea still offers practical guidance on self-discipline, resilience, personal growth, confidence, and staying focused on what truly matters.

Japanese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Life without endeavor is like entering a jewel mine and coming out with empty hands. The saying reflects how success is shaped by effort, dedication, and the willingness to take action rather than simply by opportunities or potential. It suggests that valuable results cannot be achieved without hard work, perseverance, and commitment. Just as entering a jewel mine does not guarantee finding treasures without searching, lifes opportunities req

India strongly criticized Pakistan's unwarranted comments on Kashmir and the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister made these remarks at the ASEAN Regional Forum meeting. New Delhi stated that Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India. The Indus Waters Treaty remains in abeyance due to Pakistan's terrorism sponsorship. Pakistan should dismantle terror infrastructure instead of misusing global platforms.

A Cockroach Janta Party delegation will meet Union ministers on Friday. This meeting follows recent clashes between CJP supporters and Delhi Police. The CJP has called for a nationwide protest against alleged police brutality. They are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The party previously met Union Health Minister JP Nadda regarding NEET-UG examination issues.

Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi was transferred amid ongoing exam irregularities scrutiny. Naresh Pal Gangwar now leads the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education. Several other secretary-level appointments were also announced by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. This reshuffle occurs while the Education Ministry faces public and political pressure. The government also approved in-situ upgradations for several officials.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) dismissed a complaint against Zomatos parent company Eternal, ruling that there was no prima facie evidence of abuse of market dominance. The complaint alleged unfair pricing, excessive commissions and anti-competitive practices, citing a large price difference between ordering via the app and buying directly from a restaurant.

Korean proverb of the day: A Korean saying offers a life lesson for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by trying to handle everything at once. The proverb reminds us that we all have limits. Instead of trying to control every situation, the saying encourages us to focus on what we can actually change and let go of the rest.

Delhi Metro station closures: Seventeen Delhi Metro stations will remain closed from 7.30 am on Friday, July 24, due to heightened security around the ongoing CJP protest. The demonstration over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 examination irregularities continues at Jantar Mantar. Commuters are advised to check DMRC updates before travelling.

Protests over the NEET paper leak erupted across Bihar on Thursday. Many students and at least fourteen police personnel sustained injuries during the demonstrations. Agitators hurled stones and vandalized government and railway properties in several districts. Police responded with baton charges and aerial firing to disperse the unruly crowds. Authorities have initiated investigations and arrests to address the violent incidents.

FDA Recalled Eggs: Nearly 1.6 million dozen eggs have been recalled due to potential Salmonella Enteritidis contamination. Midwest Poultry Services voluntarily recalled the white shell and brown cage-free shell eggs produced at its Texas facilities. The affected eggs were distributed to several retailers across multiple states. Consumers are advised not to eat the recalled eggs and to follow FDA guidance on their disposal or return.

Tibetan Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of It is better to live for one day as a tiger than to live for a thousand years as a sheep. The saying emphasizes that a life lived with courage, purpose, and self-respect is more valuable than a long life spent in fear or quiet submission. It encourages people to face challenges boldly, stand firm in their beliefs, and pursue meaningful goals instead of settling for comfort or allowing fear to limit their potential. True fulfillment comes from

Japanese mindset of the day: Explaining concepts to others strengthens personal knowledge and reveals areas needing further study. This process helps organize thoughts and clarify details for better comprehension. Unexpected questions can highlight memorized answers without true underlying understanding.