The Economic Times

Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, has emphasized that the requirement for drivers to understand Marathi is about facilitating basic communication, not mastering the language. The state is taking a humane approach, offering drivers more time to learn functional Marathi if necessary. Starting August 20, a state-run initiative will assess the drivers' Marathi proficiency, aiming to uphold the cultural identity and essence of the Marathi language.

Taiwanese actor and model Cheng Chang Fan has sparked fresh dating speculation after a video showed him hugging and twirling with an Indian woman. The buzz follows an earlier viral video of Cheng Chang interacting warmly with an Indian hotel employee who welcomed him with an aarti and tilak. His later posts about Indian women have added to speculation, though neither has confirmed a relationship.

Texas solar farms are turning to sheep as a surprising solution to a growing maintenance problem. Across roughly 68,000 acres, sheep now graze beneath rows of solar panels, keeping grass under control without damaging expensive equipment. Goats can climb and chew wires. Cattle are often too tall for the rows. Sheep fit the space, eat the vegetation, and give Texas ranchers a new source of income from the solar boom.

A road trial in Sydney tested the durability of concrete created from industrial waste, revealing impressive results. The geopolymer concrete endured five years of heavy traffic and harsh weather, matching traditional concrete performance. Researchers noted its potential to significantly lower the carbon footprint of the construction industry and highlighted its suitability for sustainable infrastructure initiatives in urban development.

Canadians are keeping an eye on their bank accounts as a couple of government benefit payments are scheduled to be deposited next week. Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) payments are scheduled for August 27, 2026, Thursday in Canada. Heres how much eligible Canadians can receive, plus the key eligibility rules, income limits and maximum monthly benefit amounts.

Russian travel influencer Marina Kharbani (@terk_love) has called Guwahati's new integrated airport terminal one of the top three most epic airports she has visited, praising its bamboo and orchid-inspired design. The terminal was recently named among the World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026. Guwahati Airport's official Instagram thanked her for the appreciation, as other users also praised the terminal's architecture.

Ukraine's President Zelenskiy marked Independence Day with a defiant speech, emphasizing peace without surrender. Foreign leaders visited Kyiv, pledging continued support and military technology for Ukraine's defense. Britain will provide classified technology for long-range cruise missile production within Ukraine. Allied nations will hold military talks to discuss Ukraine's air defense needs. Ukraine seeks all necessary aid to stop the ongoing conflict and bring soldiers home.

United States President Donald Trump announced future tariff increases on Canadian goods. Tariffs on Canadian cars, trucks, and auto parts will rise to 50 percent. Steel imports from Canada will also face the same fifty percent tariff rate. These new tariffs are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. Products manufactured within the United States will continue to face zero tariffs.

Beijing's 2021 five-year blueprint for the robotics sector had promised subsidies, research tax breaks and financing, setting a goal for China to become a global wellspring of robotics technology innovation.

Eggshell color does not affect nutritional value or taste, experts confirm. The breed of the hen determines whether eggs are white or brown. Both egg types provide essential nutrients like protein and vitamins. Freshness and expiration dates are key factors when buying eggs. Eggs are a versatile and nutritious food enjoyed globally.

Brazil is building the worlds biggest citrus waste-to-energy plant, a 2.1-million-square-foot facility designed to transform orange juice wastewater into renewable energy. The project is expected to generate 1.77 million cubic feet of biogas every day, replacing fossil natural gas while reducing emissions and turning citrus waste into a valuable energy resource.

Quote of the Day by John Travolta: John Travoltas quote, I probably have some sort of chocolate five times a week. Theres definitely a change it does to the chemistry of the body. Its my favorite feeling. I live for it, explores the simple pleasure of enjoying a favorite treat. The quote suggests that chocolate can bring happiness, comfort, and a sense of enjoyment into everyday life, while highlighting Travoltas personal enthusiasm for one of his favorite foods.

Invasive silver carp are rapidly approaching the Great Lakes, raising alarm over potential ecological and economic damage. The recent detection of hundreds of young fish in the Illinois River has sparked concerns about their harmful impact on plankton, which could disrupt native species and aquatic food webs. Their notorious jumping behavior also poses risks for recreational boaters. To combat this threat, a $1.

SkyWind's rooftop wind turbine has secured full certification after two years of testing. This compact machine produces about 1,000 watts of peak power annually. The turbine is small enough for a rooftop and weighs less than 44 pounds. Its certified output is around 615 kilowatt hours per year.

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy accused Chief Minister DK Shivakumar of a benami takeover attempt. He alleged the Chief Minister is acquiring the NICE toll road project through shell companies. Kumaraswamy also claimed the project involves significant land scams and violations of its agreement. He stated farmers await compensation while the company sold acquired land. The minister also criticized the state government for commercializing public spaces.

'She makes paid appearances': Tense Trump-Melania exchange goes viral; netizens erupt

The Chakma Development Foundation of India has urged the Election Commission of India to intervene. They allege systematic targeting of over 1,200 Chakma electors in Arunachal Pradesh. Objections were reportedly accepted after the deadline, violating established rules. The foundation seeks observers and central security forces for upcoming hearings. This action aims to protect Chakma and Hajong voters from intimidation and coercion.

The Mercedes T 80 was built to break 600 km/h in 1939. It had six wheels, a huge 44.5-liter V12 and up to 3,500 horsepower. Mercedes wanted to push the car toward 650 km/h and claim the world land-speed record. The machine was ready for a historic test. Then World War II changed everything. The T 80 never made its final run, leaving its true top speed unknown.

In 1984, NASA and the FAA conducted groundbreaking tests on a fuel additive designed to minimize post-crash fires. A Boeing 720, remotely controlled, was intentionally crashed to collect essential data. Although the fuel additive, FM-9, failed to eliminate a significant fire, the findings greatly informed aircraft structural integrity and passenger safety, ultimately ending the FAA's push for mandatory anti-misting fuel additives.

In an effort to alleviate living costs, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has announced new initiatives including fare-free bus travel for women and the distribution of three free cooking gas cylinders per year to qualifying families. The fare-free bus service is set to launch on October 2, while the gas cylinder program will kick off in January 2027.

Abhishek Banerjee has approached the Supreme Court seeking an urgent decision from the Speaker. The plea concerns the disqualification of twenty Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MPs. These MPs have aligned themselves with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India. The Supreme Court has listed Banerjee's plea for hearing on August 25. This action challenges the alleged delay in deciding the disqualification proceedings.

The forgotten camera aboard Apollo 8 inadvertently captured the Earthrise photo, highlighting an extraordinary moment for humanity. Utilizing advanced lunar mapping tools, scientists were able to recreate the spacecraft's exact orbital position. This investigation underscores the serendipity involved in taking one of the most famous images of our planet, shedding light on a pivotal, unplanned encounter with Earth during space exploration.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected at the upcoming BRICS summit in New Delhi. His attendance would mark his first visit to India in seven years. This presence signals a potential stabilization of relations between the two nations. Officials will explore expanding engagement while managing border and security differences. Xi's visit comes amid ongoing efforts to improve ties after past clashes.

Marie Curie's personal items remain radioactive more than a century after her groundbreaking research. Her notebooks and possessions are stored with protective measures due to radium contamination. The Curies processed tonnes of pitchblende in a basic Paris laboratory for their work. Radium-226's long half-life of 1,600 years ensures its persistent radioactivity. These traces of their experiments continue to be measurable for many centuries.

Businessman Paul Lister transformed Scotland's 23,000-acre Alladale estate into a wilderness reserve, planting one million native trees and reintroducing red squirrels since buying it in 2003. Funded through eco-tourism, the project also supports Scottish wildcat breeding and peatland restoration. Lister's proposal to reintroduce wolves and bears sparked local opposition, though conservation efforts continue, with managers describing it as a multi-generational legacy project.

A chlorine gas leak at a Nagpur water treatment plant caused panic. Nearby residents ran for safety and many people gasped for breath. Several individuals were hospitalized after the incident occurred early Monday morning. Police evacuated residents within a 200-meter radius to safe locations. Emergency services and NDRF teams worked to plug the leak and secure the cylinder.

Using used coffee grounds can be a surprising yet effective way to address minor scratches on wooden furniture. The natural pigments in coffee help to stain the exposed wood fibers while the texture of the grounds acts as a gentle abrasive, smoothing out the rough edges. This eco-friendly and budget-friendly technique not only helps restore your furniture but also promotes waste reduction before composting.

Delhis Food Safety Department has destroyed around 508 kg of suspected spurious paneer at Okhla Sabzi Mandi and collected 22 food samples from across the capital as it steps up inspections ahead of the festive season.

The United States is preparing to announce severe sanctions against Iran. President Trump stated Iran is completely collapsing under economic pressure. Iran's foreign minister dismissed the sanctions threat as desperation. Iran's economy faces severe pressure from existing international sanctions. The country has also disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

In 1964, NASA researchers made history by tracking a satellite for the first time using a laser beam. Leveraging spare radar components and a ruby laser, this groundbreaking experiment laid the foundation for modern satellite laser ranging technology. Today, this innovative method provides critical data on global sea-level rise and polar ice melt, allowing scientists to monitor planetary shifts with remarkable accuracy, measuring changes down to the millimeter.

Finland has an unusual approach to private land, allowing people to walk through forests, camp temporarily, swim, boat and pick wild berries and mushrooms even when the land belongs to someone else. Known as Every Persons Right, the long-standing principle gives people broad access to nature without requiring landowner permission or an entry fee.

New U.S. sanctions and UAE trade suspension may disrupt Indian exports to Iran. Rice, tea, and pharmaceutical shipments routed through Dubai face potential severe disruptions. Exporters anticipate higher freight and payment processing costs due to these changes. Bilateral trade has already significantly declined from previous highs. Alternative payment and shipping routes are being explored by affected businesses.

Kroger customers may receive a share of a proposed $17 million class-action settlement. This settlement addresses allegations of overcharging for generic prescription drugs. Eligible customers filled prescriptions using insurance between December 2018 and August 2026. The lawsuit claims Kroger did not account for lower Savings Club prices. Customers must file claims by December 21, 2026, for potential payment.

Quote of the day by Nikola Tesla explores the difference between clear thinking and deep thinking. Teslas words connect logic, reality, curiosity and creativity. The quote also raises questions about how people approach complex ideas. His life and work show how scientific thinking can move between practical problems, abstract ideas and questions that challenge accepted views.

A former techie left a 14-year IT career to start a commercial mushroom farming unit in Odisha, now earning over Rs 10 lakh a month. Employing 24 locals, his venture supplies mushrooms to nearby cities, producing 15-18 tonnes monthly and backed by a Rs 97 lakh government subsidy. His story has drawn widespread praise online for its rural entrepreneurship model.

The BJP intensified its confrontation with the state government on Monday. Opposition legislators disrupted Assembly proceedings, demanding minister B Nagendra's removal. This action stems from an alleged Rs 187 crore scam involving the Valmiki ST Development Corporation. The Congress government has rejected the opposition's allegations and accusations of shielding the minister. Two bills were passed in the Legislative Council amid ongoing opposition protests.

Free-range and farm-raised chickens differ in their growth and diet. Free-range birds have firmer meat and a stronger flavor profile. Farm-raised chickens offer tender meat with a milder taste. The method of raising influences the chicken's color and texture. Fat content depends on the cut and skin, not just the type.

Wilbur, a lively piglet, captured hearts as he dashed through the bustling streets of West Hollywood. Adopted by the talented Oscar-nominated songwriter Diane Warren, he has found refuge at a sprawling seven-acre sanctuary in Malibu. This seamless rescue not only highlights Warren's commitment to animal welfare but also ensures that Wilbur will receive both a spacious environment and continuous care for a joyful life ahead.

European satellite firm ICEYE has launched a new Indian establishment for defense and security cooperation. This expansion targets India's significant defense and space market opportunities. ICEYE India will provide advanced Earth observation and intelligence capabilities to local agencies. The company also plans to manufacture satellites within India for domestic needs. This initiative will utilize local sourcing, suppliers, and engineering talent.

Public transport services resumed on the Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati route for a third day. Over 250 passengers traveled from Imphal under robust security arrangements. The departure was delayed by an incident at Taphou village but was resolved peacefully. Adequate security personnel and Road Opening Parties ensure safe movement along the highway. Passengers expressed confidence in the government's peace initiatives and safe travel experiences.

Modi Govts new Gen Z game plan: reels, report cards & campus outreach

Russian President Vladimir Putin anticipates meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi soon. They will likely meet again later this year as well. Economic cooperation, including trade and energy, was also discussed. Russia is increasing fertilizer supplies to India to support agriculture. Both leaders look forward to strengthening the strategic partnership between their nations.

Quote of the Day by Franz Kafka: Franz Kafka's insightful observation reveals the struggle many face in conveying their internal emotional landscapes. This challenge is a universal human condition; people often find it hard to articulate their feelings, even to themselves. Despite these struggles, the authenticity of these emotions remains significant. Kafka encourages us to be patient and empathetic towards those experiencing profound inner conflicts. Understanding oneself unfolds gradually thr

The Cockroach Janta Party will hold a youth mobilisation in New Delhi on September 5. This action follows the government's alleged failure to honor commitments made to protesters on July 25. The group plans a peaceful march from India Gate to the New Delhi Police Headquarters. Families of deceased NEET victims will lead the march, joined by students nationwide.

Heavy rain caused significant waterlogging across Gurgaon on August 24. Key areas like Sohna Road and Golf Course Road experienced severe disruptions. Waterlogging occurred near Sikanderpur metro station and Rail Vihar after the downpour. An unidentified colony faced severe flooding, resembling a gutter. Gurugram's infrastructure faced questions amid the widespread waterlogging.

Heavy rain caused significant waterlogging across Gurgaon on August 24. Key areas like Sohna Road and Golf Course Road experienced severe disruptions. Waterlogging occurred near Sikanderpur metro station and Rail Vihar after the downpour. An unidentified colony faced severe flooding, resembling a gutter. Gurugram's infrastructure faced questions amid the widespread waterlogging.