The Economic Times

Argentina and England's FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal renews a fierce rivalry on the field, while decades-long territorial disputes over the Falkland Islands gain fresh fervor off the field. Argentina's foreign minister reiterated claims to the islands known as Islas Malvinas. This resurgence occurs as hopes for improved UK-Argentina ties begin to fade. The match highlights ongoing political tensions alongside sporting competition between the nations.

India faces Shubman Gill's fitness and Rohit Sharma's form issues before the second ODI. Gill's potential absence as opener and captain raises significant team concerns. Rohit's batting approach has not yielded expected dividends, prompting scrutiny. Jasprit Bumrah's return to form is a major positive for the Indian side. India may consider team changes based on pitch conditions and player availability.

The Delhi High Court is set to hear a public interest litigation on Thursday focused on the urgent health concerns of activist Sonam Wangchuk. Currently engaged in an indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar, Wangchuk is protesting for the education ministers resignation related to NEET irregularities. The court has mandated that authorities be notified about this pressing situation.

A loyal Pomeranian named Duggu passed away just hours after his devoted owner Pradeep Jain. Duggu waited for his owner's return and refused to leave his master's body. The elderly dog followed the funeral procession for a short distance before collapsing. The family arranged a separate bier for Duggu and performed final rites. This incident highlights the deep bond between the owner and his beloved pet.

India's capital account surplus is expected to reach USD 105 billion in FY27. Stronger foreign capital inflows and improved portfolio investments will support this growth. Services exports and remittances provide a steady cushion against trade deficits. The current account deficit is projected to widen modestly to USD 60 billion. This will result in an overall balance of payments surplus of USD 45 billion.

A Kerala consumer commission has ordered Flipkart, Samsung, its authorised service centre, and the third-party seller to jointly either repair a defective Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or refund Rs 1 lakh to the buyer. The phone developed overheating issues within 14 days of delivery, but every party involved tried to shift responsibility onto someone else.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors that feel real. The brain processes uncertainty and threats differently in individuals with OCD. Compulsions offer temporary anxiety relief, reinforcing the cycle of the disorder. Intolerance of uncertainty significantly contributes to obsessive thinking patterns. Effective treatments like ERP and SSRIs can help retrain the brain.

Global weather models significantly underestimate Himalayan snowfall, a new study found. This underestimation is particularly pronounced in the western Himalayas during major winter storms. Researchers used novel sensors and Archimedes' principle to gather accurate snowfall data. Improved snowfall estimates will aid water resource planning and avalanche hazard assessments. These findings could also enhance climate change impact studies across the region.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor urged activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his fast. He asked the government to engage in dialogue with protestors. Tharoor stated that Parliament offers a forum to address student issues. He emphasized that fair exams are crucial for middle-class families. The activist's health is deteriorating during his ongoing protest.

Apurva Shrivastava's childhood experiences inspired him to co-found the AI startup Avoca, which answers customer calls for home service businesses. Its AI voice agents can book appointments, manage schedules and follow up on pending quotations. The startup is now valued at $1 billion, with its success rooted in solving a critical challenge faced by small businesses, ensuring that no customer call goes unanswered.

Identical twins face repeated Digi Yatra authentication failures, causing travel disruptions. The facial recognition system struggles to distinguish between them, leading to manual checks. One family has appealed to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for a solution. Airport sources indicate the issue requires ministerial intervention for resolution. Other twin families also report similar problems with the travel system.

The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between India and the UK is now active. This pact aims to significantly boost bilateral trade and economic growth for both nations. Tariffs will be reduced on numerous goods, making them cheaper for consumers. Indian professionals will benefit from extended social security contribution exemptions. Businesses anticipate increased investment and opportunities across various sectors.

The Trinamool Congress faction proposed alternative sites for their July 21 rally. They suggested Birla Planetarium or Metro channel as new locations. The court questioned why another rally could not be permitted nearby. The police are open to granting permission at a different venue. The hearing was adjourned for the government's views on venue suggestions.

Chhattisgarh High Court ruled insurers are not liable before policy issuance. The court found the tribunal wrongly used Aadhaar for age determination. This decision enhanced compensation for accident victims and their families. The court revised disability assessment for an injured claimant significantly. The ruling clarified insurance contract commencement dates and age proof requirements.

Wholesale price inflation reached 9.87 percent in June, impacting the nation's economy. The Congress party attributes this rise to the government's anti-people policies. Fuel and electricity prices saw a significant surge, affecting common citizens. Agricultural sowing has also dropped to a three-year low, causing further distress. The opposition demands accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this economic situation.

Boiling lemon peels and bay leaves creates a pleasant home fragrance through aromatic compounds. These natural ingredients release scents when heated, filling rooms with a citrus-herbal aroma. However, this method primarily masks odors rather than eliminating their sources effectively. Scientific studies on insect repulsion use concentrated oils, not simmered ingredients. The trend is a safe, inexpensive way to freshen homes, but not a substitute for purification.

China's export engine is posting a large trade surplus, defying global challenges and trade tensions. Chinese exports climbed significantly in June, driven by tech and surging automobile sales. Europe faces immense pressure from these imports and rising energy prices. German automakers are particularly impacted, considering job cuts and reduced sales. Policymakers are now examining exchange rates as a potential solution to these economic imbalances.

The median home price in the United States reached a record high of $408,776 in June. Affluent buyers are fueling demand, benefiting from stock market gains and cash purchases. This trend widens the affordability gap for first-time and middle-income households. Major cities like San Francisco and West Palm Beach also saw significant price and sales growth. High borrowing costs and rising prices make homeownership increasingly difficult for average Americans.

Municipal Corporation of Delhi Standing Committee elections will occur Wednesday. Voting for ward committee chairpersons and deputy chairpersons also takes place. The Bharatiya Janata Party holds an advantage in the Standing Committee contest. Several ward committee outcomes may depend on Congress councillors' votes. The elections aim to restore the civic body's decision-making panel.

Minister Nitin Gadkari defended the ethanol blending programme against criticism. He stated his family's business involvement is minimal and not influential. Gadkari dismissed claims of vehicle engine damage from E20 fuel. He highlighted the programme's role in reducing pollution and oil imports. The minister also addressed highway construction quality concerns.

Washington Sundar expressed happiness batting in various positions for India. He acknowledged coaches Gautam Gambhir and Ashish Nehra for boosting his confidence. Sundar highlighted the team's benefit from multiple all-rounders contributing with bat and ball. He praised skipper Shubman Gill for anchoring the chase effectively. Pacer Gurnoor Brar also received praise for his crucial wickets.

A Russian strike on Ukraine's Odesa port city killed three people on Wednesday. Three others were hospitalized after the attack, which also damaged residential buildings. Russia has recently intensified attacks on vital Black Sea ports for foreign trade. Earlier, two people died in a drone strike on port infrastructure. A civilian vessel under a Marshall Islands flag sustained damage in that attack.

Amazon delivered wrong shoes and denied refund: A Kerala consumer commission has ordered Amazon to refund Rs 1,945.30 and pay Rs 8,000 as compensation to a Kannur engineer who ordered black Skechers shoes but received a different pair. When she returned the product, Amazon claimed the return never arrived and refused to process the refund.

Axar Patel credited a changed batting approach for his player-of-the-match performance. He focused on timing the ball instead of hitting too hard during the match. This adjustment helped India secure a four-wicket victory in the series opener. Captain Shubman Gill and Washington Sundar also contributed significantly to the successful chase. The return of senior players brought stability and confidence to the Indian team.

Anil Menon NASA astronaut: Anil Menon, the first NASA astronaut of Malayali heritage, has reached the International Space Station (ISS) on his first space mission. Over the next eight months, he will conduct scientific experiments focused on human health, evaluate new medical technologies and support research into semiconductor manufacturing in microgravity. His mission aims to advance future space exploration while contributing to innovations that could benefit life on Earth.

The House of Representatives has passed a bill to make daylight saving time permanent nationwide. Proponents argue this change offers more evening daylight for outdoor activities and businesses. Detractors express concerns about darker winter mornings and potential safety hazards for children. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration and potential enactment into law.

Quote of the Day by Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi's words highlight that winning every time is impossible. He emphasizes accepting defeats as chances to learn and improve. This perspective is crucial as Messi faces another World Cup semi-final. True champions learn to rise after experiencing every fall. His career demonstrates resilience and the value of continuous effort.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with European Council President Antonio Costa. He valued guidance for advancing trade and technology cooperation between the two sides. Discussions also covered West Asia and maritime commerce safety. Cooperation is deepening across trade, technology, security, and defence. India-EU FTA enables possibilities for cooperation with Belgium.

Angela Davis, a prominent activist, advocates for actively opposing racism. She emphasizes that mere non-racism is insufficient in a discriminatory society. Her lifelong work addresses racial justice, gender equality, and prison reform. Davis's writings and speeches inspire critical thinking about fairness and social change. She continues to be an influential voice for human rights and equality.

Prime Minister Modi honored K. Kamaraj on his birth anniversary for his freedom movement contributions. Kamaraj dedicated his life to nation-building and public service for the underprivileged. His vision for an equitable society continues to inspire many generations. Born humble, Kamaraj's life turned after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He served as Chief Minister of Madras and was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna.

The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education in Kerala will announce Plus One results today. Students can check their scores on the official results portal online. They must achieve 35% marks in each subject to pass. Those who do not pass can appear for improvement examinations. This allows students to continue their academic progression without delay.

India UK Free Trade Agreement: The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement is now in effect. Nearly all Indian exports will gain duty-free access to the United Kingdom. India will also reduce import duties on various British products over time. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade significantly by 2030. Indian professionals will benefit from extended social security exemptions.

Researchers in Japan developed special ladderways for giant salamanders to cross river dams. These step-type structures with side walls proved most effective for amphibian movement. The innovative approach helps reconnect fragmented river habitats without dam removal. This method offers a practical conservation tool where dam removal is not feasible. The findings suggest similar designs could aid freshwater wildlife globally.

Security forces intensified search operations in Nagaland after an IED blast killed one soldier. Four other personnel sustained injuries and are receiving hospital treatment. A civilian also suffered a leg injury from flying debris during the explosion. Officials and militant groups condemned the attack and vowed justice for perpetrators. Meanwhile, Manipur police launched an operation to apprehend those responsible for a July ambush.

BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan questioned Rahul Gandhi's foreign trips. He demanded transparency regarding the Congress leader's international visits. Kesavan alleged secrecy surrounds Gandhi's travels abroad. He stated the public has a right to know about these furtive trips. The BJP leader asked why details remain undisclosed if nothing is hidden.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the India-EU Free Trade Agreement's potential for India-Belgium economic ties. He met with Belgian and EU officials to strengthen cooperation in various sectors. Discussions covered agriculture, clean energy, and sustainable industrial development with EU Commissioners. Bilateral economic cooperation was also expanded with Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister David Clarinval. The meetings aimed to deepen the strategic economic partnership between India and the

UK's Trade Commissioner Harjinder Kang expressed confidence in continued strong India relations. He noted a broad cross-party consensus on India's economic significance. A new Free Trade Agreement between the UK and India officially takes effect today. This landmark pact aims to significantly boost bilateral trade and market access. The agreement unlocks zero-duty access for a large percentage of Indian exports to the UK.

Former politician Ann Widdecombe was killed in a targeted attack at her home. A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and terror crimes. Counterterror police are investigating the motivation and extent of any planning involved. Widdecombe, a former Member of Parliament, was known for her conservative views. The killing has renewed security concerns for politicians in the United Kingdom.

Iran's IRGC warned of targeting oil routes for US allies after striking a naval base. The force claimed destruction of command centers and fuel tanks at the base in Bahrain. US forces conducted strikes on Iranian military targets near the Strait of Hormuz. These strikes aimed to degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Closing Ceremony: The biggest football tournament in history is about to sign off in equally massive fashion. The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will feature an unprecedented halftime show. Global music icons like Madonna and BTS will perform during the interval. A pre-match ceremony will include artists such as Robbie Williams and Nicole Scherzinger. Here's everything Indian fans need to know about who's performing, when the show starts, and how the timings translate back home.

France striker Kylian Mbappe acknowledged his team's subpar performance led to their World Cup semifinal loss. Mbappe and Lionel Messi are currently tied with eight goals each in the tournament. Mbappe holds the tiebreaker advantage with more assists in the ongoing Golden Boot race. France will now compete in the third-place match after their semifinal defeat. Both Mbappe and Messi will play one more game before the award is decided.