The Economic Times

NEET UG Counselling 2026 registrations begin today for 15% AIQ admissions. Candidates can register online through the official MCC counselling portal at mcc.nic.in. This year, a one-time physical reporting system simplifies the admission process for candidates. Online document verification and an online resignation facility are also introduced. Eligible candidates must prepare all required documents before registration and choice filling.

The United States is nearing an interim agreement with Iran and Oman. This deal aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore a ceasefire. The arrangement will govern maritime traffic through the strait for sixty days. Naval mines will be cleared from a key shipping lane within thirty days. This development follows President Trump's decision to pursue diplomacy over military action.

Supreme Court orders cameras to identify uninsured vehicles and issue automatic e-challans, tightening enforcement of mandatory vehicle insurance across India. The court found it shocking that more than 50 percent vehicles don't have insurance in India.

Voters in five US states cast ballots in primary elections on Tuesday. These contests are expected to shape the battle for control of Congress next year. Several Democratic primaries featured contests between incumbent lawmakers and progressive challengers. Redistricting played a key role in the races across these states. Missouri and Virginia saw significant redistricting efforts influencing their primary elections.

The Lok Sabha will consider two key financial bills on Wednesday. These include the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill and the Taxation and Other Laws Amendment Bill. An adjournment motion seeks a new anti-defection law to curb mass political defections. Another adjournment motion calls for a discussion on police action during a student protest. This motion demands a statement from the Union Home Minister on the incident.

The Institute of Cost Accountants of India announced June 2026 exam results. Intermediate Group II saw a higher pass percentage than Group I. Final examination results showed Group IV performing better than Group III. Raunak Jain and Mokshit Vamsi Krishna Mattupalli secured top ranks. Candidates can check their scorecards on the official ICMAI website.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio detailed negotiations with Iran on two key objectives. These talks focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz for safe maritime navigation. The ultimate goal remains the complete denuclearization of Iran, which is a long-term objective. Mediated by Oman, progress has been made in these crucial diplomatic discussions. Qatar also confirmed that efforts to resolve the standoff have entered very progressive stages.

A curious study in Togo unveiled rainbow lizards choosing four-cheese pizza instead of their usual insect diet. Observations made near a southern beach resort resulted in researchers earning an Ig Nobel Prize for nutrition. This intriguing finding emphasizes the extent to which animals can shift their diets in reaction to human influences in their habitats.

US President Donald Trump's move to charge for early access to his often market-moving Truth Social posts is raising eyebrows a year and a half into an administration that has already seen unprecedented enrichment for the First Family. Subscribers to the paid service are supposed to get almost instantaneous access to Trump's messages on Truth Social -- crucial seconds ahead of the general public.

The Election Commission has removed seventeen unrecognised political parties from Uttarakhand's registered list. These parties did not contest elections after 2019 and had untraceable office addresses. Six other parties were previously removed by the poll body for similar reasons. This action impacts several parties registered in districts like Haridwar and Dehradun. The removal follows a physical verification process conducted by election officials.

The United States revoked Brazil's ambassador's visa in retaliation for visa denials. Brazil had refused entry to two American diplomats ahead of its elections. This action also addresses Brazil's delay in approving the US ambassador nominee. The United States stated the decision could be reversed if Brazil acts appropriately. Brazil accused the US of violating international law and politically influencing its election.

Police across five Amazon nations arrested hundreds and seized valuable resources during a major environmental crime operation. Operation Green Shield 2026 targeted illegal mining, logging, and wildlife trafficking across the vast rainforest. Authorities confiscated over 280,000 cubic metres of timber and 195 metric tons of minerals. Thousands of live and dead animals were also recovered as part of the extensive crackdown.

Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast for many Indian regions on Tuesday. Assam and Meghalaya anticipate isolated extremely heavy rainfall events. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds will affect numerous states. Squally weather conditions are expected over parts of the Arabian Sea. The Bay of Bengal will also experience squally weather conditions.

Michigan's Democratic Senate primary is a key test for the party's future direction. The contest pits a progressive against a moderate, highlighting divisions over Israel. Voters are deciding between an anti-establishment message and a more moderate approach. This race could influence future presidential candidates' stances on foreign policy. The outcome will signal voter sentiment on economic issues and party leadership.

Gujarat health officials reported twenty-two deaths and thirty-five Chandipura virus cases. Seven patients remain in intensive care units requiring ventilator support. The virus progresses rapidly, particularly affecting children's brains and nervous systems. There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available for this illness. Preventive measures focus on reducing sandfly bites and maintaining sanitation.

Delhi weather today: Delhi anticipates moderate rainfall on Wednesday, August 5, with a yellow alert issued. Cloudy skies and continued rain are forecast for Delhi until August 10. Noida and Gurugram will experience warm, humid weather with scattered rain spells. Ghaziabad also expects warm and humid conditions with intermittent rain showers. These weather patterns are predicted for the upcoming week.

An armed man was arrested at Donald Trump's golf course two days prior to his visit. Authorities found a loaded pistol and hollow-point ammunition in his possession. Investigators later discovered an assault rifle and other concerning items at his residence. Trump arrived at the golf club for a Republican fundraising dinner event. This incident occurred amid ongoing security concerns for the US leader.

McDonald's replaced its U.S. business head after missing sales growth expectations. Skye Anderson, a company veteran, now leads McDonald's USA effective immediately. The CEO cited execution lapses and overwhelmed restaurant crews for the performance. A new under-$3 menu and digital discount cuts also impacted sales negatively. Anderson will now steer the company's turnaround strategy called McDonald's > NEXT.

Aviation authorities are reviewing a safety incident involving President Trump's Marine One helicopter. Commercial flights were not halted during its departure from the White House as required. This procedural lapse is under investigation by aviation officials. The review aims to determine how the error occurred and if new measures are needed. No injuries or immediate safety risks were reported during the event.

SpaceX plans to build a terrestrial mobile service using acquired spectrum licenses. This move could challenge established wireless carriers like Verizon and AT&T. The company aims to integrate its satellite network with ground infrastructure for broader coverage. Analysts caution that building a nationwide network will require significant investment and time. Investors are watching closely as SpaceX pursues ambitious expansion in connectivity services.

Quote of the day by Franz Kafka: Franz Kafka believed that appreciating beauty keeps people young. This ability to notice wonder sustains optimism and a rich life. Staying young at heart is a daily choice we actively make. Protecting curiosity and finding joy keeps the human spirit alive. Kafka, a 20th-century writer, explored themes of anxiety and isolation.

US lawmaker Riley Moore voiced concerns regarding India's proposed FCRA amendments. These changes could allow government takeovers of religious charities and impact bilateral relations. The amendments seek to empower a Designated Authority to manage foreign contributions and assets. The proposed legislation also reduces penalties for FCRA violations. India's Parliament is considering these amendments to its foreign donation laws.

A SpaceX rocket stage is set to impact the moon early Wednesday morning. This four-metric-ton object is traveling at high speed toward the lunar surface. Cosmic forces and solar activity have nudged the debris onto this unexpected trajectory. While the impact is unintentional, it highlights concerns about space junk disposal. NASA and SpaceX are discussing methods to prevent similar future lunar collisions.

Mediators report progress in efforts to end the US-Iran war, which has driven oil prices lower. Qatar's Emir discussed de-escalation efforts with President Trump, stressing the importance of dialogue. Senior US officials expressed optimism about reopening the Strait of Hormuz shipping lanes soon. However, shipping risks remain as a vessel was struck near the strait. Iran seeks full control over inbound shipping and visibility over outbound traffic.

An Indian-flagged vessel sank in the Red Sea after a projectile strike, but all fourteen crew members were rescued. The Yemeni Coast Guard safely brought the rescued seafarers to the Port of Mokha. Yemen's transportation ministry accused Iran-aligned Houthis of conducting the attack using an explosive-laden boat. Red Sea traffic has been significantly disrupted by Houthi actions off the coast of Yemen.

Gaslighting psychology: Recent studies indicate that gaslighting operates as a gradual learning mechanism, undermining ones grasp of reality. Individuals begin to place their trust in unexpected and unconventional behavior from others, prompting mental adjustments in expectations and resulting in confusion.

Chewing gum that targets cancer-linked oral bacteria: Researchers developed bioengineered chewing gum targeting head and neck cancer microbes. This gum significantly reduced human papillomavirus levels in laboratory tests. Harmful bacterial species were also brought down to almost zero levels. The treatment did not harm beneficial oral bacteria found in the mouth.

Quote of the day by Gwyneth Paltrow, The best way to mend a broken heart is time and girlfriends, focuses on emotional healing after a breakup. The quote explains how time can reduce emotional pain and how friends can provide support, listening, distraction and validation. Gwyneth Paltrows career, personal life and experience also give context to the quote and its lessons about patience, acceptance and friendship.

Quote of the day by Victoria Beckham is less about expecting effortless success and more about respecting the power of commitment. A goal becomes more attainable when belief is supported by preparation, patience and action. Hard work cannot control everything, but it can transform potential into ability and intention into progress. For anyone standing at the beginning of a difficult journey, that may be one of the most useful reasons to keep going.

Norse proverb of the day: Our emotions and lived experiences are the lens through which we view the world. The Norse saying, 'The head only knows what lies nearest the heart,' encapsulates this idea. The things we hold dear capture our focus and shape our comprehension. This emotional connection significantly influences our decision-making processes.

Quote of the Day by Kate Winslet serves as a timely reminder that living well is not necessarily about doing more. It can be about noticing more, appreciating more and choosing more intentionally. The future will always contain something to prepare for, but the present is the only place where life can actually be lived.

In 1957, an American woman scientist invented a liquid fuel Hydyne which helped United States create history and make space travel a reality. Mary Sherman Morgan developed Hydyne for the US Army Ballistic Missile Agency. The fuel increased rocket performance and powered the Jupiter-C rocket used to launch Explorer 1, the first successful American satellite, in January 1958.

Quote of the day by Percy Bysshe Shelley shows wisdom that lies in its simplicity. Do not allow tomorrow's uncertainty to steal today's possibilities. Do not allow yesterday's mistakes to prevent tomorrow's growth. Learn from what has happened, prepare thoughtfully for what may come and then return your attention to the life unfolding now.

Quote of the day by Nicolaus Copernicus: Nicolaus Copernicus believed learning and arts shape character and lead to better lives. His quote highlights knowledge's power to move minds away from vices. Copernicus, a Polish astronomer, proposed the Sun-centered solar system model. His heliocentric theory transformed understanding of the universe and influenced science.

Quote of the day by Kalpana Chawla teaches people to redefine achievement. The goal matters, but it is not the only measure of a meaningful life. The lessons learned, relationships formed, obstacles overcome and experiences collected along the way can become equally important. A destination may provide a moment of accomplishment, but the journey creates the person who reaches it. Without the journey, the goal is only a point on a map. With it, the goal becomes a story of growth, courage and disc

African proverb of the day explains how envy, hidden motives and social pressure can affect the way people value their success. The saying warns people not to throw away their peace, relationships, opportunities or achievements because someone else questions their worth. It also teaches people to recognize jealousy, protect their blessings, understand intentions and value what they have worked to build in life.

University of Warwick researchers developed a new non-contact rail crack detection technology. This system uses electromagnetic acoustic transducers to generate and detect ultrasonic waves. The technology can identify cracks hidden beneath the rail surface at high speeds. It offers potential for continuous rail monitoring without disrupting traffic flow.

Psychology says people who get irritated at times on even small issues aren't necessarily angry or mean. Irritation can appear when stress, tiredness, emotional pressure or mental overload reduces a person's ability to handle frustration. Small events may become the point where built-up emotions come out. Psychology explains how stress, exhaustion, frustration and emotional pressure can influence reactions and offers lessons about rest, self-awareness and emotional regulation.

AI firm Anthropic has secured a significant computing capacity deal. This agreement is valued at ten billion dollars and spans six years. The contract is with infrastructure startup Volta Infra Holdings, which is Nvidia-backed. This move aims to meet the growing demand for Anthropic's AI products. The deal marks a substantial investment in future AI development capabilities.

Incoming Apple CEO John Ternus is bringing back Laura Legros to his new management team. Legros previously served as a vice president of hardware engineering until her retirement in 2022. She will report directly to Ternus after he assumes the CEO role on September 1. This move signals Ternus beginning to shape the company's leadership structure. Legros will function as a vice president working across various company departments.

Iran may permit European nations to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz. This potential shift could aid peace talks and normalize shipping routes. The move offers third-party assurance for maritime industries after recent conflicts. European demining depends on Iran providing security and a sustainable ceasefire. This development could boost broader diplomatic efforts to end the war.

Spain has returned seventy thousand migrants to Morocco after their arrival in Ceuta. This influx saw seventy-five people tragically lose their lives while attempting the crossing. Most of the seventy-two thousand migrants who entered irregularly have now departed. Those remaining face difficult living conditions with limited access to basic necessities. Spanish officials confirmed the updated figures following the recent events.