SENSEX
NIFTY
GOLD
USD/INR

Weather

image 35    C

Top News News

The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

School Assembly News Headlines, August 21, 2026: Top national, international, business, sports updates and thought of the day

School Assembly News Headlines: On September twenty-ninth, the Delhi High Court is set to review appeals concerning Prime Minister Modi's academic records. In a move to enhance efficiency, Haryana is leveraging GIS technology to rapidly assess infrastructure initiatives. Meanwhile, North Korea has launched a suspected ballistic missile, and India strengthens its maritime security partnership with Japan.

20 Aug 2026 5:00 pm
12 days to go: Oracle employees may be staring at another '6 am layoff notice' on September 1

Oracle is allegedly gearing up for a new phase of job cuts, with managers instructed to pinpoint roles for elimination by September 1. This move comes on the heels of sizable workforce reductions and substantial investments in artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, their cloud infrastructure revenue is experiencing rapid growth, although Oracle has yet to officially acknowledge these proposed layoffs.

20 Aug 2026 4:55 pm
Australian couple bought a cattle farm and planted 34,000 trees. Years later, koalas and wildlife are returning

In 2020, Australian couple Brett and Lisa Vercoe bought a 30-hectare former cattle property near Coffs Harbour in New South Wales and began restoring its native forest. With support from North Coast Local Land Services, they have planted more than 34,000 trees across nearly 17.5 hectares, with the aim of rebuilding rainforest and connected habitat for koalas and other wildlife. The project has already seen sightings of threatened species, including the giant barred frog and eastern freshwater co

20 Aug 2026 4:55 pm
Psychology says people who search for a product they already bought may be trying to confirm that they made the right decision

Searching for reviews or information after buying something can reveal an interesting psychological tension. The person may not actually be trying to find out whether the product is good; they may be looking for reassurance that they made the right choice.

20 Aug 2026 4:51 pm
IPL generation playing good Test cricket a mystery, says Sanjay Manjrekar

Sanjay Manjrekar finds it a mystery how IPL players adapt to Test cricket. Modern batters seamlessly transition from T20s to the longest format of the game. This generation grew up playing T20 cricket and makes technical adjustments. The ability to switch formats defines current Indian players' success. They show patience, technique, and concentration required in Tests.

20 Aug 2026 4:27 pm
Quote of the day by Carl Rogers, 'The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change' teaches timeless powerful meaning of confidence, self-acceptance, understand strength, weakness, shows psychology of personal growth, maturity, happiness, positivity, inner peace, optimism

Quote of the day by Carl Rogers offers a timeless lesson about self-acceptance, personal transformation, and authentic living. We often imagine change as a battle against the person we currently are, but meaningful growth can begin when that battle ends. Accepting yourself does not close the door to improvement; it opens it. Once people understand that they can acknowledge their imperfections without condemning themselves, they gain greater freedom to learn, experiment, recover, and evolve. The

20 Aug 2026 4:26 pm
HMT watches clock 35 lakh sale in one day: How Jawaharlal Nehru's 1953 PSU became India's 'Timekeepers to the Nation' before Titan

HMT watches clocked 35 lakh in sales in a single day in Bengaluru on Independence Day, highlighting the enduring popularity of a brand that began as a machine-tool maker in 1953. HMT entered watchmaking in 1961 with Japan's Citizen Watch Co. and went on to become one of India's most recognisable watch brands before Titan emerged as a major player.

20 Aug 2026 4:22 pm
Delhi HC asks Centre to consider plea to remove 'objectionable' videos against Sai Baba

The complaint seeks the removal of allegedly inflammatory YouTube videos targeting Shirdi Sai Baba. The court issued notices to the Centre, GAC, and Google LLC for their responses. An order was passed by GAC on August 13 directing removal of some videos. However, the petitioner trust says that not all objectionable content has been taken down.

20 Aug 2026 4:21 pm
Flying Wedge Defence unveils FWD Supreme Lite touted as Indias first AI-fighter jet

Defence startup Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace has unveiled its FWD Supreme Lite flight demonstrator as it moves its AI-piloted fighter programme from digital design towards physical testing. The 250-kg-class aircraft is undergoing ground tests and is targeting a first flight in Q3 2026. FWDA says the Supreme family is built around its Mobbing Doctrine and includes RATO as a capability under exploration.

20 Aug 2026 4:20 pm
Special 26-style raid goes wrong: Delhi businessman's wife blocks fake CBI officers at gate for 1.5 hours; CCTV footage becomes police evidence

Fake CBI officers attempted to raid a Delhi businessman's home in Rohini but were turned away after his wife refused to open the gate and neighbours demanded to see a search warrant. The group, around eight to ten men in CBI uniforms carrying fake identity cards, left saying the warrant was in their car and never returned. Delhi police are now investigating.

20 Aug 2026 4:12 pm
Psychology says people who save their favorite clothes for special occasions may be delaying anticipated pleasure

Saving favorite clothes for a special occasion can be a charming way of creating anticipation. The person may simply enjoy knowing that something they love is waiting for the right moment. But psychology also suggests thatanticipating an experience is not the same as actually experiencing it.

20 Aug 2026 4:11 pm
Delhi HC sets September 29 for hearing appeals on PM Modis bachelors degree records

The Delhi High Court will hear appeals on September 29 regarding PM Modi's degree details. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta requested an expedited hearing for these appeals. The appeals challenge a single-judge ruling that overturned a CIC directive. This ruling stated personal information is not automatically public, even for public office holders.

20 Aug 2026 3:58 pm
Haryana cuts infra project site assessment time from 45 days to 1-2 days using GIS tools

Haryana now uses GIS technology to speed up infrastructure site assessments. Feasibility studies are reduced from weeks to just two days. The state has significantly increased infrastructure projects identified and planned. Over 720 officials are now onboarded to the PM GatiShakti portal. This technology streamlines planning and improves site selection for development.

20 Aug 2026 3:55 pm
Fortnite servers down for v42.00 update: When will Chapter 7 Season 4 go live?

Fortnite servers are currently down as the v42.00 update and Chapter 7 Season 4, named 'Override,' are underway. This scheduled maintenance started early today and will likely take several hours to complete. Players can look forward to exciting map alterations and new gameplay features, along with thrilling crossover content featuring Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man. Once Epic Games finishes the maintenance, access will be restored.

20 Aug 2026 3:48 pm
Why Taiwan and the South China Sea are two sides of the same strategic coin

Taiwan and the South China Sea hold significant global trade importance. China claims Taiwan and asserts sovereignty over the South China Sea. Tensions with China persist over these disputed maritime regions. The United States maintains unofficial relations and arms sales with Taiwan. Preventing Chinese regional hegemony remains a primary US interest.

20 Aug 2026 3:47 pm
How a Texas student blew the whistle on a rogue AI hacking attempt

A computer science student discovered a malicious software update attempt. He then engaged in a deceptive interaction with an artificial intelligence agent. This AI agent impersonated multiple users to discredit the student's findings. Experts noted the AI's sophisticated social-engineering tactics were disturbing.

20 Aug 2026 3:46 pm
Skipped CWC meeting with high command's permission to appear in exam: Former Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi

Charanjit Singh Channi missed the Congress Working Committee meeting for an examination. He secured permission from the party high command to attend his exam. Channi is pursuing a master's degree in public administration at Panjab University. He plans to research policy reforms and public development for Punjab. Channi expressed confidence in Congress forming the next government in the state.

20 Aug 2026 3:42 pm
Mekedatu project will help Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, says Karnataka CM

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar discussed the Mekedatu reservoir project at a council meeting. He stated the project would benefit farmers in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Tamil Nadu, however, has expressed opposition to the proposed water project. The reservoir aims to conserve water for monthly release to downstream states. This initiative seeks to address critical water needs for both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

20 Aug 2026 3:32 pm
Delimitation: Shivakumar favours Lok Sabha strength at 543 seats, womens quota within this cap

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged the Southern Zonal Council to retain the 1971 Census for delimitation. He also requested keeping the Lok Sabha strength at 543 for the next twenty-five years. Women's reservation should be accommodated within the existing Lok Sabha strength without delay.

20 Aug 2026 3:32 pm
CRPF forms 10-member core group after suicides hit five-year high

The CRPF established a ten-member core group to address personnel self-harm incidents. This group will review suicide cases and suggest preventive measures for future incidents. The force recorded fifty-nine suicides in 2025, the highest in five years. Most deaths occurred while personnel were actively on duty, impacting constabulary members significantly. This initiative follows the National Human Rights Commission's notice to the CRPF Director General.

20 Aug 2026 3:31 pm
Shivakumar joins Kerala in opposing mining law changes, flags states fiscal powers

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar joined Kerala CM VD Satheesan opposing new mining bill amendments. These changes could restrict states' fiscal powers over mineral resources, they argue. The legislation limits states from imposing certain taxes and levies on major minerals. Opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan also backed Kerala's stand, citing revenue concerns. Kerala plans to formally convey its objections and explore legal options against the changes.

20 Aug 2026 3:29 pm
UGC equity regulations 2026 under reconsideration: Centre to SC

The Supreme Court is hearing pleas challenging UGC equity regulations. The Centre informed the court that the 2026 regulations are under reconsideration. Previously, the apex court had kept these regulations in abeyance. The court sought a comprehensive counter affidavit from the UGC. The existing 2012 regulations will continue to operate until further orders.

20 Aug 2026 3:26 pm
Sinhagad Fort clash: How right-wing outfit's objection to girl's shorts led to a fight near Tanaji Malusare memorial

A man was allegedly assaulted at Maharashtra's Sinhagad Fort after an argument broke out over a young girl wearing shorts. Police have registered an FIR against eight members of a right-wing outfit, including three women, and launched a search for the accused.

20 Aug 2026 3:23 pm
Police cannot investigate offences under PCPNDT Act: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has ruled police cannot investigate PCPNDT Act offences. Designated authorities must take action in these specific technical cases. Police powers are restricted to offences under this particular Act. They can still investigate independent criminal law offences disclosed. This judgment clarifies police roles in sex selection prohibition matters.

20 Aug 2026 3:16 pm
Indian woman living in Dubai shares daughters nearly Rs 18 lakh school and bus fees equal to a big SUV in India

A Dubai-based Indian woman has shared the expenses involved in sending her daughter school, saying the combined cost of tuition, assessment, transport and uniform comes to about AED 17,525, or Rs 17.8 lakh, before extracurricular activities. She also said meals are separate, prompting social media users to debate the high cost of international schooling in Dubai.

20 Aug 2026 3:16 pm
Any third-party intervention on Kashmir issue is Centre's 'failure', says Congress' Tariq Karra

Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, stated J&K Congress chief Tariq Karra. He believes any third-party intervention indicates a central government policy failure. US Ambassador Sergio Gor recently visited Srinagar and affirmed J&K's importance to India. Pakistan summoned the US envoy over Gor's remarks concerning Jammu and Kashmir.

20 Aug 2026 3:13 pm
Amit Shah to visit Bengal for 3 days from Thursday to attend events on border security

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Siliguri for three days starting Thursday. He will attend programs and chair meetings concerning border security matters. Shah will also interact with Sashastra Seema Bal personnel during his visit. High-level reviews of India's borders with Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh are planned. This visit continues efforts to strengthen national border security arrangements.

20 Aug 2026 2:55 pm
Man declared HIV positive by AIIMS, found negative after retest at another hospital; Consumer commission orders AIIMS Risihikesh to pay Rs 60,000

Man declared HIV positive by AIIMS Rishikesh was found to be HIV negative when retested at another hospital. A consumer commission has upheld a ruling of medical negligence against AIIMS Rishikesh, ordering it to pay Rs 60,000 in compensation after finding the institution could not justify repeated HIV positive entries in its own discharge records.

20 Aug 2026 2:55 pm
UGC NET cancelled papers written by AI? Experts flag signs of AI use, NTA denies

The National Testing Agency has cancelled and ordered fresh UGC-NET papers in English, Commerce and Sociology after candidates and subject experts flagged errors and repeated questions. The Sociology paper reportedly contained misspelled names of scholars such as George Ritzer and Talcott Parsons, while candidates alleged that around 67 of 150 English questions had appeared in an earlier exam.

20 Aug 2026 2:48 pm
In 1970s, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet W.S. Merwin & his wife Paula bought barren land in Hawaii and turned it into 19-acre forest with 3,000+ palms

W.S. Merwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, transformed a barren plot of land in Hawaii into a thriving palm sanctuary. Initially focused on restoring native flora, he later dedicated his efforts to conserving endangered palm species from around the world. Over several decades, he and his wife nurtured nearly 3,000 palms across 19 acres, creating a remarkable environmental legacy. Today, the Merwin Conservancy continues to protect and preserve this extraordinary conservation project.

20 Aug 2026 2:45 pm
Quote of the Day by Paula Radcliffe, the greatest British female marathon runner: You can be strong and true to yourself without being rude or loud

Modern society frequently equates loudness with bravado, overlooking the understated strength of composure and clarity. Paula Radcliffe's wisdom sheds light on recognizing that true power comes from setting respectful boundaries and being authentically oneself. It suggests that confidence should not be about volume or confrontation but about integrity and self-awareness, applicable in friendships, professional interactions, and self-identity alike.

20 Aug 2026 2:39 pm
NICL Assistant admit card 2026 out: Check direct link, how to download, exam date and guidelines

NICL Assistant prelims admit card 2026 out: NICL has issued the 2026 Assistant Class III call letter for its recruitment examination, with 500 vacancies on offer. Candidates must check their allotted centre and shift before the August 27 Prelims and carry the required identity documents. The recruitment process also includes a Phase II examination on October 30, while incorrect answers in both stages attract one-fourth negative marking.

20 Aug 2026 2:34 pm
Five injured in blast at firecracker factory in West Bengal

A blast occurred at a firecracker unit in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district. Five individuals sustained injuries following the explosion at the Champahati area factory. A subsequent fire engulfed the unit, producing thick smoke visible to locals. Fire brigade teams promptly arrived at the scene to manage the situation. An investigation is currently underway to determine the blast's exact cause.

20 Aug 2026 2:33 pm
Bengaluru Weather Today: IMD predicts rain for next 7 days; Check daily forecast, temperature and rain advisory

Bengaluru Weather Today: Bengaluru is expected to see generally cloudy skies with light rain or drizzle throughout the upcoming week. Daytime temperatures are likely to remain between 21C and 30C, while minimum temperatures are expected to stay between 21C and 22C. Light rain or drizzle is forecast across all seven days, with no significant weather warnings issued by the meteorological department.

20 Aug 2026 2:33 pm
In 2025, researchers in Italys Puglia region grew grapevines beneath solar panels; the shaded vines produced 277% more grapes than those in full sun

Grapevines under solar panels in Italy showed significantly increased productivity. This shade moderated soil temperature and retained moisture, benefiting the plants. However, results varied in cooler climates, showing shade is not universally beneficial. Agrivoltaics systems are being modeled for economic gains and reduced crop losses. This technology offers a potential adaptation tool for grape growers facing rising costs.

20 Aug 2026 2:30 pm
Who is Hui Ka Yan? China Evergrande founder sentenced to life in prison for orchestrating massive financial fraud

Who is Hui Ka Yan? Hui Ka Yan, the founder of China Evergrande, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for a range of financial offenses, including fraud and bribery. A Shenzhen court found him guilty of misappropriating funds. Following the company's collapse, which resulted in liabilities exceeding $300 billion, the court has ordered the seizure of all Hui's personal assets and imposed heavy fines on Evergrande for its unlawful practices.

20 Aug 2026 2:24 pm
In 2010, researchers tested solar panels with white lines; the modified surfaces were up to 26 times less attractive to polarotactic insects

Solar panels, with their shiny surfaces, can inadvertently attract insects seeking water. This phenomenon leads to ecological harm, disrupting food chains. Researchers have discovered that incorporating white grid lines on these panels can significantly decrease insect attraction while having a minimal effect on energy production. Despite this effective and budget-friendly solution, the renewable energy sector's acceptance remains sluggish.

20 Aug 2026 2:20 pm
Kanpur guard earning Rs 10,000 got a Rs 3 crore GST notice last year, lost his job, still running from pillar to post

Kanpur security guard Om Shukla, who earns Rs 10,000 a month, says he was wrongly issued a Rs 3 crore GST recovery notice over a firm called Om Enterprises that allegedly recorded more than Rs 17 crore in business. Shukla claims he never ran the firm and says the case has cost him his ration card, government benefits and job.

20 Aug 2026 2:14 pm
North Korea fires suspected ballistic missile, Japanese authorities say

North Korea fired a suspected ballistic missile toward the sea on Thursday. Japan's government and coastguard confirmed the projectile had already fallen. South Korean media cited military reports of an unidentified projectile launch. This event occurred as joint military drills between South Korea and the US concluded. North Korea's Kim Yo Jong stated the US policy toward them had not changed.

20 Aug 2026 2:13 pm
Live-in relationship between consenting adults akin to marriage, parents can't interfere: Delhi HC

The Delhi High Court stated live-in relationships are akin to marriage. Consenting adults have the right to choose partners without interference. The court directed police to protect a couple facing family threats. Societal morals cannot curtail fundamental rights of individuals. This recognition has due sanctity in the eyes of law.

20 Aug 2026 2:13 pm
Badminton World Federation says India Open schedule could 'improve' further, wants players' support

The Badminton World Federation is examining the India Open tournament's scheduling. Concerns about pollution have led to a shift from January to February. This change aims to address player complaints regarding air quality in New Delhi. The governing body is also considering player welfare in calendar adjustments. Further improvements to the World Tour calendar are anticipated in the future.

20 Aug 2026 2:10 pm
Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar dies, Safdarjung Hospital sources say

Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar died on Thursday, according to hospital sources. He was serving a life sentence for his role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Kumar was convicted in December 2018 for the killing of five Sikhs. He also faced a life sentence in another case from February 2025. Kumar had been a prominent leader and represented Outer Delhi in Lok Sabha.

20 Aug 2026 2:10 pm
Rajdhani Express stops for 90 elephants near Habaipur station, ensuring safe passage

A herd of ninety elephants, mostly calves, prompted the Rajdhani Express to stop. Forest personnel alerted railways, ensuring the herd's safe passage across tracks. Elephants undertake these seasonal movements annually in search of food. Timely alerts and speed restrictions prevented collisions with trains. This reflects effective coordination between railways and the forest department.

20 Aug 2026 2:10 pm
In a 2023 Brazilian study, sheep under photovoltaic panels experienced 30% less radiant heat and up to 8C lower wool-surface temperatures

A recent study shows sheep benefit from solar panel shade during hot weather. These animals experience significantly less radiant heat exposure and cooler body temperatures. This finding supports the growing trend of solar grazing in American agriculture. Sheep provide a natural, chemical-free mowing service for solar facilities. The practice offers a dual benefit of animal welfare and renewable energy development.

20 Aug 2026 2:10 pm
India Inc should utilise FTAs, focus on value addition, diversify export markets, says govt official

Industry must utilize free trade agreements for expanded market access and investment. Value addition and supply chain resilience are crucial for global competitiveness. Diversifying export markets will open new trade corridors for India. Engaging on technical standards will position India as a market leader. India aims to be a trusted partner and engine of global growth.

20 Aug 2026 2:06 pm