The Economic Times

The CBI has filed a chargesheet against thirteen individuals for a NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Three NTA subject experts allegedly accessed and shared confidential examination questions. A chain of intermediaries then distributed these leaked papers to candidates for money. Digital evidence, including chat records, confirms the circulation of leaked questions. The investigation uncovered a well-organized criminal conspiracy involving multiple states.

India captain Shubman Gill will miss the first day of the warm-up match due to a finger injury. The BCCI medical team is monitoring his progress as a precautionary measure. This practice game is India's sole competitive outing before the Test series. The team aims to adapt to local conditions and fine-tune their game. Intermittent rain may also disrupt preparations for the upcoming Test matches.

An SUV evaded a security checkpoint on the Jammu-Srinagar highway early Friday. Police opened fire at the fleeing vehicle, which was traveling from Srinagar towards Jammu. The driver subsequently abandoned the suspicious Scorpio near Dalwas and fled the scene. A massive search operation involving district police, CRPF, and the Army was launched. Further investigation is underway to determine the motive behind the incident.

Rockstar Games will reveal an extended look at Grand Theft Auto 6 on August 28. The highly anticipated game is officially slated for a November 19, 2026 console release. Indian PC players are still awaiting an official announcement for their platform. This extended look will offer more details about the game's world and characters. Fans should await official confirmation regarding any PC version release.

Proposed US tariffs on polysilicon will harm domestic and allied solar industries. China dominates low-cost solar polysilicon production due to scale advantages. US solar manufacturing has struggled despite past protectionist measures. US companies pivot to more profitable chip manufacturing due to policy instability. China's polysilicon growth threatens US dominance in computer processors.

A student opened fire at a school north of Bangkok on Friday. Authorities confirmed an unknown number of people were killed in the incident. The shooting occurred in the Bang Kruai district of Nonthaburi province. Emergency workers were seen assisting students as ambulances arrived at the scene. This incident follows a similar school shooting in southern Thailand earlier this year.

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has won the Grand Chess Tour St Louis Rapid and Blitz title. He secured the championship with a score of 23 points, finishing ahead of all competitors. This victory marks his first Rapid and Blitz tournament win, a significant achievement for the young player. Earlier this year, Praggnanandhaa also claimed the Norway Chess 2026 crown in Oslo.

Tennessee Republicans held primary elections on Thursday, selecting candidates for Congress. Charlie Hatcher defeated Andy Ogles in a key Republican primary race. Brent Taylor will face Justin Pearson in another reshaped Memphis district. These primaries tested a new congressional map drawn by state lawmakers. Voters also chose nominees for governor and U.S. Senate seats.

Kerala Rain Forecast: Heavy rainfall is on the horizon for Kerala, particularly intensifying on Friday. The state should see a reduction in rain intensity starting August 8, with lighter showers predicted for most districts by August 9 and 10. In addition, Lakshadweep may witness isolated instances of heavy rain on August 7, but overall, the rainfall is expected to ease significantly in the coming days.

African football leaders unanimously backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino's leadership. This support offers a boost as he seeks a fourth term in office. However, UEFA reaffirmed its boycott, citing unmet conditions for returning to FIFA competitions. FIFA apologized for mistakes in a World Cup commercial rights proposal. The organization will review processes after facing widespread criticism from federations.

Many people break weekday schedules on weekends, while some maintain consistent breakfast times. Breakfast choices are often driven by routine and practicality, not conscious decisions. Maintaining predictable eating patterns reinforces the body's internal clock and daily rhythms. These consistent habits become automatic responses to familiar morning cues. This regularity suggests a broader pattern of stable daily routines for individuals.

President Trump signs executive orders on protecting American citizenship, halting birth tourism

On August 7, 2026, India will proudly commemorate National Handloom Day, showcasing its vibrant handloom legacy. This year's celebration underscores innovation and sustainability in the handloom industry. A standout feature is the Handloom Hackathon 2026, aimed at integrating technology into traditional practices. The event will be graced by President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi, while awards will honor exceptional contributions to India's rich textile traditions.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated affirmative action must continue until social discrimination ends. He emphasized reservation exists for social reasons and should persist as long as needed. Bhagwat noted demands for categorisation and judicial observations reflect changing reservation dynamics. He criticized political manipulation of welfare systems for partisan gains. Bhagwat called for transparency and purity of intent in reservation policy execution.

Donald Trump touts economic successes, but facts present a mixed picture. Job growth has slowed considerably in recent years, despite record highs. The stock market has seen new records, driven by company profits and AI. Manufacturing activity shows improvement, though job creation remains limited. Investment figures cited by Trump appear implausible and lack clear substantiation.

Colombo is set for persistent rain, with wet weather threatening to disrupt India's crucial three-day warm-up match ahead of the Test series. The fixture is the visitors' only opportunity to adapt to Sri Lanka's spin-friendly conditions before the opening Test in Galle. Batters and bowlers alike will be eager to make the most of the match, while head coach Gautam Gambhir has urged the squad to maximise every training session and arrive fully prepared despite the challenging weather forecast.

President Trump faces difficult choices in the ongoing Iran conflict. He is caught between granting Iran control of the Strait of Hormuz or escalating military actions. Further airstrikes risk political backlash before the upcoming midterm elections. Maintaining the current blockade offers no clear path to ending the war. Analysts suggest Trump may need to accept a new reality in the strait.

The Supreme Court dismissed a plea challenging a 2005 Delhi High Court order. This order had previously quashed criminal proceedings against the Hinduja brothers in the Bofors case. The court declined to adjourn the matter and refused further submissions during the hearing. The original Bofors deal between India and Sweden dates back to 1986. The CBI had alleged illegal payments connected to the howitzer contract.

Delhi-NCR experienced persistent heavy rainfall on Friday, August 7, following a night filled with showers. Thursday's intense rain resulted in significant waterlogging and severe traffic disruptions in Gurgaon. A yellow alert for thunderstorms and moderate rain has been issued for both Delhi and Gurgaon, while Noida and Ghaziabad may face intermittent showers without an alert. Residents should remain cautious and aware while traveling during these conditions.

President Trump believes the Iran conflict will end soon and stated the nation cannot continue. He expressed optimism regarding negotiations concerning the Strait of Hormuz trade route. The United States remains committed to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran's defense minister conveyed readiness to respond decisively to any threats. This comes amid ongoing uncertainty over renewed United States-Iran diplomacy.

An Iranian parliamentary committee is reviewing a bill to bar hostile vessels from the Strait of Hormuz. This preliminary legislation proposes significant fines for any ships violating these new restrictions. The draft bill is currently undergoing expert review and recommendations are being sought. Specialists have been invited to submit their suggestions before the draft is finalized. This proposed measure could impact international maritime transit through a vital waterway.

The White House has established price floors and a fifteen percent tariff on polysilicon products. This action aims to bolster domestic chip and solar supply chains for national security. The new trade protections will officially take effect on December fourth this year. Minimum import prices are set for polysilicon, ingots, wafers, cells, and modules. An incentive program will also encourage domestic production of polysilicon and its derivatives.

Quote of the day by Marlon Brando: Marlon Brando believed societies divide people based on status and background. His quote highlights how cultures create hierarchies and perceive others as inferior. Brando, a celebrated actor, redefined screen acting with his powerful performances.

Morning Brief Podcast: IT Secy on ISM 2.0, Social Media Regulation & India's AI Race

Investors from abroad are pressing regulators for a decrease in securities transaction taxes to alleviate the burden of double capital gains taxes. With the Reserve Bank of India's stringent leverage rules potentially pushing trading activities offshore, there's a risk of reduced government revenues and diminished market liquidity. Authorities are considering these issues in light of the recent tax cuts on government securities.

New research indicates dementia risk factors impact the brain uniquely. Common vascular risks damage brain blood vessels and white matter. Diabetes and lower BMI showed links to Alzheimer's proteins. This study highlights dementia's varied causes and mechanisms. Healthy habits may protect the brain through multiple pathways.

Astronomers have identified a dormant supermassive black hole far from its galaxy's center. This hidden object revealed itself by tearing apart a passing star in a rare event. The discovery challenges assumptions about black hole locations within massive galaxies. Scientists predict many more such wandering black holes may exist in the universe.

The average age of directors on NSE-listed companies has declined significantly over the past decade. However, boards at Nifty 100 and Nifty 500 firms have grown marginally older. This trend reflects a continued preference for more experienced directors in mature companies. Younger companies are actively seeking board members with domain-specific expertise. The overall shift indicates a broader embrace of younger directors across the market.

Global satellite players must coordinate with Indian constellations for spectrum access. This ensures unhindered domestic presence in the growing space communications sector. New rules will likely mandate this coordination for non-geostationary satellite providers. This move aims to prevent global entities from blocking local market entry. National security and the development of Indian capabilities are key priorities.

Kellogg has faced pressure for years to remove artificial ingredients from its cereals, which it has already done in other countries like Canada.

Quote of the day by Arthur Conan Doyle: Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes, believed life itself held surprising stories. He felt reality often surpassed imagination's wildest flights and daring plots. Doyle's quote encourages observing the world for its own remarkable events. He was a Scottish writer, knighted for his services during the Boer War.

Quote of the day by Glenn Close explores how people often reveal more through what they choose not to say than through their words. The quote explains the value of emotional restraint, quiet communication and human mystery. It also offers lessons for relationships, personal growth and acting. Glenn Close believes subtle expression creates deeper understanding and stronger connections between people in everyday life.

Researchers studying prostate cancer discovered three cases of biopsy sample misidentification over two years, according to a 2011 research paper.

Postpartum psychosis is mental health disorder that can happen to anyone after giving birth, but the chances are higher for people with certain mental health conditions.

Cristiano Ronaldos inspiring quote reminds people of all ages that success is not reserved only for those born with extraordinary gifts. Instead, it belongs to those who combine whatever abilities they possess with discipline, consistency, humility, and perseverance. Every small step taken each day contributes to larger accomplishments in the future.

In 1849, an Italian-born inventor developed an early device for voice communications but couldn't afford a full patent due to financial hardship. Antonio Meucci created the Telettrofono years before the telephone patent was granted to Alexander Graham Bell. Financial struggles, injuries, and unpaid patent renewal fees affected his claim. His work was later recognized by the United States House of Representatives in 2002 for helping lay the foundation for voice communication technology.

Norse proverb of the day: A Norse saying highlights that true affection grows from mutual openness and honesty. People feel safe sharing thoughts and struggles, building stronger connections. Constant flattery may hide insincerity, undermining genuine friendship and trust. Honest feedback, though difficult, strengthens relationships more than empty compliments.

Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the enduring nature of ancient Roman concrete, which has surprisingly withstood the test of time. Through a natural process within an untouched latrine at Hadrian's Villa, calcite formed and enhanced the concrete's strength and longevity.

French proverb of the day brings attention to the traditional saying, Bees touch no fading flowers. The proverb explains how people are often drawn toward growth, purpose, and opportunity. It uses the behavior of bees in nature to explain human choices in relationships, work, success, and social life. The saying also reminds people to continue improving their character, skills, and contribution instead of depending on past achievements.

'Hasan Piker said US deserved 9/11': Cruz targets El-Sayed over his ties to far-left commentator