The Economic Times

European drought weakens Dutch dikes, requiring constant monitoring by volunteers. Cargo ships face reduced loads on shallow Rhine and Danube rivers. Farmers experience irrigation restrictions, warning of smaller harvests and higher prices. Houseboat owners find their vessels resting on exposed riverbeds. Authorities are studying methods to improve water retention in the soil.

Best Mexican Proverb of the Day: The Mexican proverb Flies do not enter a closed mouth teaches the value of silence. This saying highlights how restraint in speech can prevent trouble and conflict. It encourages people to pause and consider consequences before speaking their minds. The wisdom of this proverb remains relevant in today's fast-paced digital world. Thoughtful communication and careful word choice build stronger relationships and avoid problems.

Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia are now recognized innovation hubs. These Baltic nations boast a significant number of successful startups and unicorns. Their entrepreneurial spirit flourished after regaining independence from Soviet rule. Strong STEM education and a shift in role models fuel future growth. This region's startup success creates jobs and attracts foreign investment.

Kerala experienced significant rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 320 mm. Waterlogging affected roads and low-lying regions across several districts of the state. Rains caused inundation and damage to homes, prompting rescue operations. While rainfall subsided, floodwaters remained in many affected areas. Some dam water levels dropped, but others stayed in red alert status.

Author Amish Tripathi emphasises that the protests led by Gen Z are a natural part of civic life, advocating for change through constitutional methods. He calls for a re-examination of how Indian history is taught in schools, promoting a decolonised approach. Tripathi's latest book aims to make history captivating for children, using storytelling to connect them with the past, much like previous generations who stood up for change.

Americans in the Middle East are urged to exercise heightened vigilance and consider departing. The State Department cited potential for sudden escalation involving Iran and unpredictable actions. Flight cancellations and travel disruptions are possible due to the complex security environment. US diplomatic facilities and interests globally may face targeting by Iran and its allies. The advisory emphasizes that past safety does not guarantee future security in the region.

Kwatra, India's envoy to the US, said Pakistan dismantled the Indus Water Treaty's goodwill over decades, adding that Pakistan's actions destroyed the treaty's spirit of friendship and cooperation. India honoured the treaty despite decades of Pakistani hostility and cross-border terrorism, he noted.

WWE SummerSlam featured significant title changes across two nights of action. Cody Rhodes defeated John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship title. Seth Rollins captured the World Heavyweight Championship after a successful cash-in. Oba Femi made history by defeating Brock Lesnar in a Hell in a Cell match. Several champions retained their titles while new champions emerged in divisions.

Odisha's cabinet approved a bill to establish Economic Region Development Authorities for urban growth. This initiative aims to develop integrated economic corridors across the state. A Rs 2,995-crore livelihood mission for tribal households was also cleared. The Mukhya Mantri Janajati Jeevika Mission 2.0 will span five years. Six proposals from the Water Resources Department were also approved.

Women's WhatsApp groups offer vital support beyond romantic relationships. These friendships provide practical help and emotional understanding during life's challenges. The author now values these connections more than past romantic ideals. Female friends offer unwavering support through personal transformations and difficult times. This enduring bond proves more reliable than fleeting romantic pursuits.

India will host several BRICS ministerial meetings over the next two weeks. These meetings precede the major summit scheduled for September in Delhi. BRICS nations aim to boost trade using their own currencies and address global financial reforms. Ministers will discuss promoting fair trade and resilient supply chains for developing economies.

Weather updates today, August 2: Widespread rainfall is forecast across India from August 2 to 7. Northwest, central, and eastern regions will experience heavy showers and thunderstorms. Many states including Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan anticipate significant precipitation. Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir are also expected to receive widespread rain. The weather department warns of gusty winds and lightning in several areas.

India aims for more medals on the final day of the Commonwealth Games 2026. Judo and track cycling offer the last chances for podium finishes. Athletes will compete in various judo categories and track cycling events. The closing ceremony will mark the end of the Glasgow Games. India will then formally take over hosting duties for the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

India achieved its most successful day at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Indian athletes secured sixteen medals, lifting the overall tally to thirty-nine. Dominant boxing performances contributed seven gold and three silver medals to the nation's success. India now holds fourth place in the overall medal standings with one day remaining. The country's impressive medal haul reflects strong performances across multiple sports.

OPEC+ members are expected to increase oil production quotas for September. This move follows several months of similar production adjustments by the group. Many members face production capacity declines, making target increases less meaningful. Gulf countries struggle with exports due to Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Russia's oil infrastructure has also faced repeated drone attacks.

Bill Pulte's interim Director of National Intelligence tenure concludes this Monday. Jay Clayton will assume the Director of National Intelligence role after Senate confirmation. Pulte expressed gratitude to President Trump for the opportunity to serve. He offered Jay Clayton his complete and total support for the transition. Clayton inherits an intelligence office which has undergone significant reductions.

Lionel Messi has returned to training with Inter Miami after the World Cup. His competitive comeback date remains unconfirmed by the club's coaching staff. Discussions are ongoing regarding his workload and schedule management. Messi and Rodrigo De Paul were excused from the MLS All-Star Game. The team faces a demanding schedule with little recovery time.

US -Iran war news: US President Trump has declared a suspension of military action against Iran, heeding requests from Tehran and other nations for a diplomatic approach. The United States had been prepared to implement significant strikes, but this delay aims to foster negotiations for future agreements. Israel also backs this decision, highlighting the significance of collaboration over confrontation.

US Iran war news: American military commanders warn of hard decisions regarding missile defense resources. Ongoing conflict with Iran is heavily pressuring United States military stockpiles. US European Command chief alerted Pentagon about insufficient naval assets for Israel's defense. Shrinking missile stocks raise concerns about future conflict readiness and replenishment timelines. Analysis indicates significant depletion of advanced missile inventory over recent weeks.

Kerala weather, August 2: Kerala faces an orange alert for very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on August 2. Authorities issued safety advisories and postponed examinations due to ongoing landslides and flooding. Residents in vulnerable areas are urged to move to safer locations if instructed. Public is cautioned against entering water bodies and undertaking non-essential travel. The Kerala Public Service Commission will offer another chance for affected candidates.

Capital One stated anti-money laundering concerns prompted account closures for the Trump Organization. The bank is seeking dismissal of a lawsuit alleging political debanking by the plaintiffs. Federal court previously dismissed two complaints, allowing amended versions to be filed. Capital One argues the allegations are misguided and lack full context. The bank's filing details months of analysis by its anti-money laundering team.

Delhi NCR weather today, August 2: Delhi-NCR anticipates cloudy skies with light to moderate rain activity on Sunday. Maximum temperatures will range between 37 and 38 degrees Celsius across the region. Minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 30 to 31 degrees Celsius throughout the day. Several cities including Delhi, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Gurgaon, and Noida will experience these weather patterns. A gradual dip in temperatures is forecast later this week before warming again.

Commonwealth Games 2026: Gulveer Singh secured a historic bronze medal in the 5000m race. He became the first Indian to achieve this feat at the Commonwealth Games. This medal also marked his second win in a single edition of the Games. Gulveer previously earned a silver medal in the 10,000m event. He finished third with a time of 13 minutes 24.95 seconds.

Netflix faces a $105 million lawsuit after losing a film producer's World War II movie. The unencrypted digital cinema package was stolen from Netflix offices after being delivered for consideration. The film producer had invested $45 million and seven years into creating the movie 'Fortitude'. Netflix disputes responsibility, stating the film lacked industry-standard safeguards upon delivery. This incident follows a previous lawsuit filed by the producer against filmmaker Martin Scorsese.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is under intense scrutiny following a failed proposal for commercial rights that has eroded trust among regional confederations such as UEFA and CONCACAF. This situation has sparked concerns about his leadership style as football officials call for increased transparency and involvement in governance. With the criticism mounting, Infantino's path to re-election as FIFA president could face significant challenges.

A tourist plane crashed near Nazca, Peru, killing thirteen people on Saturday. The aircraft was conducting a sightseeing flight over the ancient Nazca Lines geoglyphs. Eleven foreign tourists and two crew members were aboard the ill-fated Aerodiana flight. The plane had departed from the nearby city of Ica for its scenic journey. Peruvian authorities have launched an investigation into the tragic aviation accident.

A significant heat wave is currently affecting large areas of the Western United States. Temperatures are nearing record highs, increasing wildfire dangers in already dry regions. Many cities are experiencing dangerous heat, with some expecting record-breaking temperatures. Overnight lows offer little relief, making the situation particularly hazardous for residents.

Satellite images show a sanctioned tanker leaking crude oil near Oman's protected islands. The oil slick has spread across twenty square kilometers and reached shorelines. Environmental experts warn of increased leakage and potential ship breaking due to monsoon winds. This tanker, carrying over 800,000 barrels, is sanctioned by multiple countries. The Omani government ordered its removal, but owner response remains unclear.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged President Trump to avoid massive strikes on Iran. He expressed concern over potential conflict escalation and sought clarity on US plans. Riyadh consistently advocates de-escalation despite recent joint strikes in Iraq. Other regional powers are also increasing diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. Iran warned of a decisive response to any hostile action by the US or Israel.

US President Trump disagreed with U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's findings on the Reflecting Pool damage. Pirro's office dropped charges against David Hearn, citing construction issues. The Justice Department's prosecution faced an embarrassing setback after this dismissal. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum countered Pirro's claims about vandalism evidence. Hearn's legal team criticized both Trump and Pirro for their statements.

A gunman opened fire at an In-N-Out Burger restaurant in Idaho on Saturday. Police confirmed the shooting resulted in fatalities and the suspect was also dead. Authorities were still determining the exact number of victims in the chaotic scene. Local reports indicated three people were killed and two others sustained injuries. Video footage showed a young man with a long gun outside the establishment.

A magnitude 2.9 earthquake shook Delhi's North District early Sunday morning. The tremor occurred at 04:14 AM IST at a shallow depth of eight kilometers. Its epicenter was precisely located at latitude 28.721 N and longitude 76.957 E. The National Center for Seismology confirmed these details through an official post. This seismic event highlights the potential for ground shaking from shallow earthquakes.

A bomb exploded at a Moscow restaurant, killing three people including the bomber. Twenty-one individuals sustained injuries in the devastating blast at Kudrinskaya Square. The unidentified woman attempted to smuggle the explosive device into the establishment. A security guard and a patron also died in the unfortunate incident. Russian authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Iran has warned it will respond decisively to any new U.S. or Israeli attacks, as President Donald Trump renewed threats against Tehran. Rising tensions have disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, pushed oil prices higher, and heightened fears of wider regional conflict affecting global energy supplies and maritime security.

Indian para athletes achieved their best-ever performance at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. They secured a total of seven medals, including three gold, two silver, and two bronze. Soman Rana won gold in men's F57 shot put with a season's best throw. This historic haul equaled all previous Commonwealth Games medal counts combined.

Assam's Orunodoi welfare scheme has been relaunched with upgraded features for women beneficiaries. The enhanced scheme will now provide a monthly sum of Rs 1,250 to eligible recipients. Beneficiaries can also access interest-free advances against their future payouts. This new provision allows for advances up to Rs 15,000 for immediate needs. The government aims to improve financial access for women through this initiative.

Quote of the Day by Wesley Snipes: Wesley Snipes quote, I don't see myself as extremely handsome. I just figure I can charm you into liking me, explores the importance of confidence, personality, and self-acceptance. The quote suggests that true appeal is not defined only by physical appearance but by the way a person carries themselves, connects with others, and brings positivity into relationships. It highlights that genuine charm comes from confidence, authenticity, humor, and emotional conne

Indian women boxers secured five gold medals at the Commonwealth Games boxing competition. Arundhati Choudhary won the fifth gold medal in the women's 70kg final. Lovlina Borgohain earned a silver medal in the women's 75kg final bout. Jaismine Lamboria and Preeti Pawar also claimed gold medals in their categories. Sakshi Chaudhary and Priya Ghanghas added two more gold medals for India.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino abandoned his plan to sell World Cup profits to private equity. This decision followed significant pushback from football organizations across the globe. UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation all voiced strong opposition to the proposal. Infantino stated the project created divisions no longer serving its original purpose.

The inaugural season of the Womens Pro Baseball League begins on Saturday weather permitting, with rain in the forecast when Denae Benites and the New York Heights face Mone Davis and the Los Angeles Queens. The other two teams in the league the Boston Hunters and San Francisco Firebells play on Sunday.

Quote of the Day by J.K. Rowling: J.K. Rowlings quote, I feel 80% of my life is completely normal, explores the importance of balance, simplicity, and appreciating everyday moments despite success and recognition. The quote suggests that fame and achievements are only a small part of life, while ordinary experiences, personal relationships, and daily routines continue to shape happiness and fulfillment. It highlights that a meaningful life is not defined only by extraordinary accomplishments but

Justice Ujjal Bhuyan advocates for greater transparency in judicial appointments. He stated that withholding reasons harms deserving judges and the public. Lack of transparency allows unsuitable candidates to enter the judiciary. These individuals sometimes make unconstitutional remarks about groups of people.

Speaking after Chelsea went down 2-1 to London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in front of a crowd of 80,363 in Sydney on Saturday, Alonso said Mudryk would join the squad in Hong Kong for the next leg of their pre-season tour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated India's youth power technological advancements and economic growth. Young entrepreneurs are driving India's digital economy and creating new jobs. India is rapidly advancing in semiconductor manufacturing and artificial intelligence. The nation has significantly expanded its higher education infrastructure over recent years.