The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Vivien Leigh: Vivien Leigh believed beauty could hinder an actress's career. She felt people underestimated talent when appearance was prominent. Leigh pursued acting, wanting her skills to define her performances. She achieved international fame for her roles in major films. Her legacy endures through her iconic cinematic portrayals.

Speaking at the inauguration of the QUANTUM exhibition at Science Gallery Bengaluru in the presence of US Ambassador Sergio Gor, Shivakumar said Karnataka's long-standing ties with the US had played a key role in shaping Bengaluru into one of the world's leading technology hubs.

Psychology says people who drive slowly in fast lanes, highways or expressways aren't always unaware of traffic. Their behaviour may involve control, distraction, anxiety, habit or a belief that they are following the rules. Psychology theories help explain why some drivers remain in a lane despite vehicles waiting behind them.

The Centre accepted nine of twelve recommendations to curb fake news. Replies to three contentious issues, including defining fake news, were deferred. Measures accepted cover regulatory frameworks and media self-regulation. The government noted PIB Fact Check Unit's ongoing verification of misinformation. The committee sought updates on proposed amendments and media literacy initiatives.

'It's time for action': Senate passes Graham Russia sanctions bill; Trump gets new tariff powers

The issue related to a 2016 final partial award of $3.86 billion, including interest, in favour of oil ministry towards cost recovery and reimbursement of royalties and taxes related to the oil and gas fields then operated by Reliance and its partners.

Quote of the day by Christopher Walken says, At its best, life is completely unpredictable. The line looks at uncertainty as part of life. It suggests that people cannot plan every event or outcome. The quote encourages people to accept change, remain open to unexpected experiences, value the present and adjust when plans change.

Shakespeare's timeless insight sheds light on how fragile reputation is in today's world. Public opinion can easily elevate or tarnish an individual's status without justice. This guidance advocates for a commitment to integrity and sincerity in daily life. Authentic self-worth and character are not dictated by others' views, urging us to cherish genuine growth over transient applause.

Bihar government informed the Supreme Court about minister Deepak Prakash's MLC nomination. He has now taken his oath as a Member of the Legislative Council. This development addresses the plea seeking his removal from the ministerial post. The court was informed that Prakash is no longer barred from continuing as minister. His nomination ensures he meets the constitutional requirement for holding the position.

Brics trade ministers finalized their Economic Partnership 2030 strategy and adopted a joint declaration. They agreed on the Jaipur Consensus and Guiding Principles for MSME credit. This aims to close the trade finance gap and expand small business access. The declaration also supported a rules-based multilateral trading system led by the WTO. Ministers advanced market opening and economic diversification among member nations.

India and China held talks to ensure Line of Actual Control stability. Both nations agreed to use existing diplomatic and military channels for resolution. This meeting aims to prevent any border incidents during President Xi Jinping's visit. Maintaining peace in border areas is crucial for overall bilateral relations. Discussions occurred in New Delhi on Thursday to address outstanding issues.

Japanese proverb of the day: A Japanese saying highlights earning money requires significant effort and time. Spending money, however, can happen quickly and without much thought. This saying emphasizes the value of financial discipline and careful decision-making. It encourages appreciating hard-earned money and spending it thoughtfully.

Oman and Iran are making progress on Strait of Hormuz issues, with a deal anticipated soon. A United States official stated that commercial shipping will be restored without impediments. Following this announcement, the United States will lift its blockade of Iranian ports. US actions will remain performance-based and tied to Iran's commitments. This development signals a potential de-escalation in regional maritime tensions.

Today's Japanese Proverb of the Day: The famous ancient Japanese proverb, A heart that has crossed the fire knows the sky, even without wings, serves as a profound metaphor for human endurance and emotional liberation. It asserts that surviving intense personal trial endows an individual with a higher perspective and unshakable inner freedom that external limitations can never take away. Rather than destroying the human spirit, life's fiercest struggles refine character, replacing fear with boun

A parliamentary committee has put forward a series of recommendations intended to accelerate the development of hydropower projects. Key measures include implementing stricter oversight for projects that are behind schedule or over budget, conducting climate risk evaluations, and expediting clearance times. The committee also raised concerns regarding NHPC's lack of independent directors while supporting viability gap funding to bolster new projects.

The Supreme Court upheld the Chhattisgarh High Court's decision regarding an election petition. Bhupesh Baghel's plea challenging the dismissal of his rejection application was disposed of. The petition concerns alleged campaign violations during the 2023 assembly polls. Bhupesh Baghel was declared elected from Patan constituency in the elections. Vijay Baghel filed the petition alleging a rally during the silence period.

India has officially updated its map for Arunachal Pradesh, formally marking border locations. The updated Survey of India map includes Longju village, currently under Chinese occupation. Several other passes and war memorials have also been officially named and located. This move follows repeated Chinese renaming exercises for places in Arunachal Pradesh. Identifying these locations formally aims for public recognition and better awareness.

A federal judge has temporarily halted financial disclosure orders for Donald Trump's lawsuit. Trump seeks to narrow his claims against the BBC, focusing on reputational damage. This move aims to avoid divulging sensitive business empire financial performance details. The lawsuit stems from a 2024 BBC documentary that edited a Trump speech. A trial for this case is currently scheduled for February.

India has begun efforts to join France's sixth-generation fighter jet development program. This collaborative approach is seen as more feasible for future combat aircraft. Discussions on this potential partnership occurred at the defense minister level. France's previous sixth-generation program with Germany faced cancellation due to disagreements. This opens an opportunity for a new India-France joint venture.

India must proactively address AI safety and security, especially within the financial sector. Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran stressed AI should not become a tool for exclusion. He highlighted AI's efficiency in credit analysis and early risk flagging for financial entities. The next two decades will be challenging for India due to global headwinds. Both private and public sectors must significantly improve their performance over this period.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is visiting Serbia, a nation maintaining ties with Russia. President Aleksandar Vucic seeks to balance EU aspirations and historic Russian connections. Serbia refuses to impose sanctions on Russia, citing deep historical ties. Both leaders aim for political gains from this significant diplomatic engagement. This visit highlights Serbia's complex foreign policy balancing act.

Students are alleging that the answers marked on their OMR sheets don't match the ones uploaded by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This discrepancy has caused significant concern among candidates who believe their results might be inaccurately calculated due to these differences.

Home-cooked thali costs increased in July due to higher onion and oil prices. Vegetable oil and LPG cylinder prices also saw significant year-on-year increases. Onion prices climbed as rabi stocks entered the market and crop damage occurred. Potato and tomato prices declined, partially offsetting the overall cost rise. Future onion prices are expected to remain firm, while tomato prices may strengthen later.

The Centre told the Supreme Court that audio clips were manipulated and contained alterations. A forensic report from NFSU Gandhinagar was submitted to the court. The petitioner's counsel relied on an earlier report finding a high voice match. The court ordered the NFSU report to be shared with both parties. This development occurred during the hearing of a plea by a Kuki rights organization.

Britain is deploying concrete reef cubes and scallop shells to revive native oyster populations. These structures aim to provide essential hard surfaces for young oysters to attach and grow. Oyster numbers have drastically declined, necessitating this engineering-driven ecological restoration effort. The project combines adult and juvenile oysters with recycled shells for a robust foundation. Success will be measured by oyster survival, reproduction, and the return of a healthy marine ecosystem.

The Lok Sabha approved the MSME Development Amendment Bill, 2026, aiming to resolve payment delays. This new law mandates public sector units to use TReDs for MSME payments. It also empowers courts to order interim payments for pending disputes. India's imports from China reached $131.63 billion in FY26. Meanwhile, FTA exports saw a significant 25% rise in the first quarter of FY27.

Major companies are receiving billions in tariff refunds after a Supreme Court ruling. Apple, Amazon, and Nike are among the largest beneficiaries of these repayments. Consumers who paid higher prices due to tariffs are unlikely to receive any money back. Some companies like Amazon and Costco plan to offer lower prices or limited refunds. Other firms will use the refunds for investments or to offset rising operational costs.

US President Trump frequently discusses grass, linking it to his real estate background and golf interests. He has mentioned grass in numerous public events over the past 18 months. Trump is overseeing significant changes to the White House grounds, including a new helipad. His administration is also focused on beautifying Washington D.C.'s green spaces. These efforts aim to transform parks to resemble prestigious golf courses.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal. This meeting has reignited speculation of a potential thaw between the two estranged political allies. The Shiromani Akali Dal views this as a BJP charm offensive amid parliamentary needs. Punjab's changing political landscape also drives this outreach effort. The BJP's Punjab unit favors reopening channels with the Shiromani Akali Dal.

A Federal Aviation Administration technical outage caused widespread flight delays and diversions across the American Midwest. Critical radar and air traffic control systems temporarily went offline, impacting ten states. The disruption originated at a regional control center, not Minneapolis airport itself. Airlines adjusted schedules and passengers faced lengthy waits throughout the evening. The FAA has launched an investigation into the cause of the systems failure.

Rahul Gandhi stated Congress will soon address E20 petrol concerns. He mentioned this fuel blend is damaging vehicles and scooters. The party's move follows a similar campaign by the AAP. Arvind Kejriwal's party launched a mobilization against E20 blending last week. This issue is considered significant by the Congress party.

In 1623, a German astronomer invented the earliest known mechanical calculating machine, known as the calculating clock. Wilhelm Schickard designed it for addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Details of the machine were found in letters he wrote to Johannes Kepler. The discovery changed the history of mechanical calculation, although later research raised questions about its operation, completion and influence on later calculating machines.

Economist Arvind Panagariya suggests creating special employment regions in India. These regions would foster urban development and job creation, similar to Chinese cities. He advocates for greater land availability and easier construction processes. Liberalizing building bylaws and zoning systems is also recommended for faster urbanization. Authorities should also issue urban property ownership cards more widely.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep concern over reported violence in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He stated that Islamabad should face similar global scrutiny as demanded during past unrest in Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah highlighted that while elections are an internal matter, bloodshed and civilian killings are unacceptable. He questioned Pakistan's stance when similar situations occurred in Jammu and Kashmir previously.

India is reviewing its bilateral investment treaty model to attract more foreign capital. This review aims to make the treaty more investor-friendly and address existing concerns. Private investments are showing steady growth, benefiting from public capital expenditure increases. The government is also considering relaxing timelines for foreign investors to pursue global arbitration. India seeks to ensure stability and predictability for international capital during global turmoil.

Sri Lanka posted 363 for 8 on day one of the warm-up match. Young Sri Lankan batters showed ease against the Indian bowling attack. Kuldeep Yadav-led spinners staged a recovery in the final session. Openers Nishan Fernando and Ravindu Rasantha built a strong opening partnership. Sonal Dinusha displayed technique and added runs with Ramesh Mendis.

The Supreme Court is currently reviewing how parliament handles personal information protection. Justices are weighing the public's right to know against privacy concerns. This scrutiny comes during challenges to the amendments made to the RTI Act. The court is exploring a balanced approach to sharing digital personal data while evaluating how the data protection law intersects with the RTI Act.

India has begun efforts to join France's Future Combat Air System program. The Defence Ministry seeks a roadmap for acquiring sixth-generation fighter aircraft. This move aims to enhance India's air domain capabilities significantly. The parliamentary panel recommended planning for advanced aircraft development. India also continues discussions for its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.

A Japanese ENHYPEN fan, Mina Chan, has reportedly died by suicide. Authorities are investigating the circumstances after emergency calls during a livestream. Online speculation links her death to comments made by ENHYPEN member Ni-ki. Mina Chan had publicly apologized for her actions before harassment intensified. The incident has reignited discussions about online abuse and cyberbullying.

Lok Sabha proceedings faced disruptions due to opposition demands for a statement. Home Minister Amit Shah's statement on student protests was the central issue. The opposition also reiterated its strong opposition to the upcoming FCRA Bill. Congress and INDIA bloc parties plan to vehemently oppose the bill next week. Party MPs have been directed to be present in full strength to block the legislation.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay defended direct talks on the Cauvery water dispute. He stated readiness for humiliation if dialogue protected state interests. Vijay rejected Opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's demand for an all-party meeting. The Chief Minister emphasized not politicizing the emotional Cauvery water issue. He reiterated Tamil Nadu's firm stance on its water rights.

Christian organisations and some state governments have voiced concerns regarding the proposed Foreign Contribution Regulation Amendment Bill. Mizoram Chief Minister Laldhuhoma met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss these issues. The Chief Minister received assurance that the bill will not have retrospective effect. Remaining points will be addressed in writing by the Home Minister after parliamentary discussions.

The Congress party has openly backed students in Jharkhand who are protesting against examination malpractice. Rahul Gandhi has shown his support for the students' fight for justice and better futures. In a move to foster dialogue, a party delegation has called on Chief Minister Hemant Soren to establish a committee.

Spain is replacing its ambassador to India, Juan Antonio March Pujol. He faces allegations of taking financial favors from an Indian firm. The diplomat also promoted singers using public funds for events. This action follows a report submitted to the Spanish Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office. An Indian visa firm allegedly contributed funds for a cultural event.

The Rajya Sabha failed to conduct any business on Friday. Opposition members demanded Home Minister Amit Shah's statement on pellet gun use. Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju stated the chair had not directed the Home Minister. The Opposition insisted the Home Minister was insulting the chair. The House was adjourned until Monday due to the continued din.

Abhijeet Dipke of CJP launched a petition for Prime Minister Modi's Independence Day address. The petition requests discussion on youth education, unemployment, and living costs. CJP led a recent 36-day protest concerning NEET exam irregularities and education system concerns. The organisation is now planning a national listening tour to gather youth views. This initiative aims to create a citizen-driven Youth Reform Charter for broader change.

The Pentagon has unveiled new declassified files detailing unexplained aerial phenomena. These documents include pilot accounts of silent triangular objects and mysterious lights. One report describes a decades-old incident involving a metal sphere and a body. The government aims for greater transparency regarding these anomalous sightings. These released records preserve eyewitness testimony and investigative materials.

Loud confidence gets noticed, but quiet strength wins long-term. Psychological research reveals why a quiet ego builds real mental power. The Quiet Ego Scale measures your ability to stay grounded, empathetic, and strong under pressure. Dropping defensive pride does not make you weak. It protects your emotional energy, sets firm boundaries, and sharpens daily decision-making. Silencing inner noise transforms quiet confidence into your greatest unshakeable advantage today.

Indian exporters need to integrate intellectual property protection with FTAs, customs, compliance, contracts and supply chains before entering overseas markets, a TPCI-RNA Technology report said, as IP increasingly influences market access, business valuation, partnerships and global competitiveness.