The Economic Times
Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
Twenty-five years after 9/11, Vanessa Minter, the American Airlines reservations agent who answered Betty Ong's historic call from hijacked Flight 11, finally met Ong's family. Here's what happened during the emotional reunion and why Ong's final phone call remains an important part of the history of the September 11 attacks.
Aluminum foil can help protect refrigerator shelves from minor spills and crumbs. It makes cleaning food messes easier by catching spills and preventing stains. Properly wrapped food can be protected from air exposure and odor spread. Always keep foil away from refrigerator vents to ensure proper airflow. Regularly change the foil and clean underneath to maintain hygiene.
In a compassionate response to last September's tragic violence, Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has announced financial support for victims' families. Each family of the four deceased will receive 15 lakh rupees, while individuals with major injuries will be compensated with 3 lakh rupees. This initiative underscores a strong commitment to aid affected families during their difficult times.
Kimi Antonelli secured victory at the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid. A timely virtual safety car intervention significantly altered the race's outcome. Lando Norris experienced misfortune, losing his commanding lead during the crucial period. Max Verstappen finished second, while Norris recovered to claim third place. Antonelli extended his championship lead with this significant win.
Quote of the day by Lena Headey highlights the link between freedom, sacrifice and courage. Spoken by Headey as Queen Gorgo in the 2006 film 300, the saying explains that freedom can come with a human cost. It also offers lessons about appreciating rights, understanding sacrifice, standing up for others, working for important goals and recognising the effort needed to protect peace, safety and independence.
China's troop deployment along the Line of Actual Control saw a significant reduction in 2025. The Ministry of Defence report noted ten combined arms brigades deployed opposite northern borders. This deployment translated to approximately 45,000 to 50,000 Chinese troops along the entire LAC. Indian Army deployments remain robust and prepared for any emerging contingency along the border. Border Personnel Meetings continue with the PLA to resolve ongoing issues of concern.
Kolkata has exported approximately 500 tonnes of hilsa fish to Bangladesh recently. Another 150 to 200 tonnes are expected to be shipped in the coming weeks. This marks a significant reversal of the traditional fish trade flow between the two nations. Bangladeshi traders are sourcing hilsa from Gujarat, which has high demand there. The fish is also being processed for export and sold domestically as salted hilsa.
Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced mandatory building safety audits after a recent collapse. The city aims for electric mobility transition with specific registration deadlines for vehicles. New electric three-wheelers and goods carriers will register from January 2027. Electric two-wheelers will be registered starting April 2028. The Yamuna River cleanup targets untreated sewage stoppage by 2028.
Home Minister Amit Shah stated the Uniform Civil Code will be implemented in all BJP-ruled states before 2029. He also confirmed plans to deport all illegal infiltrators, including Bangladeshis, from the country. The government believes the nation has progressed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Shah emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and a commitment to dialogue. Discussions are ongoing with allies and parties regarding the NRC in Manipur.
After returning empty-handed from the 2023 and 2024 editions, the 25-year-old World No 10 Army man produced a dominant run this time, powering through the quarterfinals and semifinals before overcoming world No. 20 Nakanishi 6-5 (28-28, 28-29, 29-28, 28-30, 28-27) in a hard-fought five-setter. After a 5-5 tie, Dhiraj prevailed 10-9 in the shoot-off.
Recent asset declarations from ministers reveal a diverse range of portfolios including cryptocurrency investments and foreign assets. While some officials claim livestock such as cows and sheep, others report ownership of older cars. Notably, several cabinet members hold properties in the Delhi-NCR region, yet declarations of firearms are largely absent. Overall, these disclosures highlight wealth accumulated through family means rather than just assets obtained in office.
India's Arunachal Frontier Highway project is now on track for construction. This strategic road aims to boost connectivity along the Chinese border. Land acquisition issues and compensation disputes have been largely resolved. The project completion deadline is set for the year 2029. This highway will facilitate rapid movement of defence forces in the region.
The Enforcement Directorate is investigating Trinamool Congress's aircraft charter payments. TMC paid substantially more per flying hour for an aircraft than other clients. This disparity was particularly pronounced in 2026, with rates over three times higher. The agency examined four years of aircraft operations and related financial transactions. The probe stems from a cyber crime police FIR and an ECIR under PMLA.
Talks between Tehran and Muscat over the waterway, a global chokepoint for energy exports, have progressed in recent weeks and the latter had been aiming to bring together foreign ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council on Monday in Salala, a southern Omani city.
Congress questioned Prime Minister Modi's recent talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The party raised concerns about alleged Chinese territorial advances in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. They also asked about India's position on China's support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Congress highlighted the significant trade deficit India maintains with China. The opposition urged the government to share details of the bilateral discussions.
Kashmiri leaders met Iran's foreign minister on the BRICS summit sidelines. They discussed the grave regional situation and the need for restraint. The leaders emphasized diplomacy and safeguarding unity within the Muslim Ummah. They conveyed solidarity with Iran and expressed deep concern over loss of lives. India could play a constructive role encouraging peaceful engagement and diplomacy.
During their summit, BRICS leaders embraced the Delhi Declaration, addressing the critical situation in Gaza with urgent concern. The declaration opposed the forced displacement of Palestinian people, advocating for their sovereignty and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Additionally, BRICS acknowledged ongoing legal actions against Israel in the International Court of Justice, urging for adherence to UN resolutions and greater humanitarian access.
In times of power outages, staying connected becomes a challenge, emphasizing the need for solutions like portable power banks. These handy devices ensure your phone remains charged during emergencies. Alternatively, tapping into a car's power source provides another practical option. For sustainable power, solar chargers can support you off the grid as well. It's vital to manage your battery life effectively and have backup strategies ready.
Only thirty percent of registered establishments actively provide apprenticeship training. Administrative issues and stipend payment delays hinder wider participation in the scheme. Government data shows a dip in dropout rates, which is expected to boost apprentice numbers. While registration trends remain encouraging, industry executives cite candidate dropouts as a concern. The ministry reports increased completion and declining termination rates for apprentices.
The Indo-Russia 'Innopraktika' Technology Hub has signed four strategic MoUs. These agreements aim to deepen technology and innovation ties between India and Russia. Partnerships were formalized on AI in healthcare and advanced electronics manufacturing. A new India-Russia AI Centre of Excellence will also be established. This initiative underscores the hub's role as a vital bridge for innovation.
Fufajis temperament fluctuates with seemingly trivial matters, such as a meal served a bit late or casual comments. When in a good mood, he plays the role of a friendly family diplomat; however, his disappointment often leads to gossiping. His wife, lovingly called fufi, often reveals signs of his discontent, which can sometimes be overlooked.
Belarus seeks deeper industrial and agro sector cooperation with India. The nation is ready for joint ventures and local production in India. Potash fertilizers and Indian pharmaceuticals remain key business items. Belarus also expressed interest in expanding defense industry partnerships. This cooperation aims to strengthen bilateral economic ties between the two countries.
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a new insurance mechanism for BRICS nations. He also suggested a collaborative initiative for the grain market among member states. These proposals aim to counter Western sanctions and ensure independent operations. Putin highlighted BRICS' significant contribution to global agricultural and food output. He also praised the New Development Bank's substantial project handling capacity.
Prime Minister Modi held discussions with key leaders, starting with Kazakhstan's President Tokayev, focusing on essential minerals and tech advancements, along with India's free trade deal with the Eurasian Economic Union. He further engaged Egypt's President El-Sisi on regional dynamics and fostered deeper ties with Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto. Modi's meeting with South Africa's President Ramaphosa addressed collaborative efforts in tackling global challenges.
After Alan Ritchson and wife Catherine announced their decision to end their nearly 20-year marriage, attention has turned to the Reacher stars lavish $3 million Brentwood, Tennessee, home. Take a look inside the private family property, its reported features, outdoor space, home gym and Ritchsons previous $2.2 million Florida residence.
Maximizing kitchen counter space is easier than you think with clever organizing tips. Consider installing wall-mounted racks for your utensils and grouping appliances to clear clutter efficiently. Add small corner shelves and drawer organizers to keep essential items within reach and maintain order. By storing items vertically and designating spice zones, you elevate your kitchen's usability. Consistently returning items to their designated spots ensures your kitchen remains neat and functional
India secured the Women's Asia Cup title by defeating Sri Lanka in the final match. Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana powered India to a strong total of 183 runs. The bowlers then restricted Sri Lanka to 111 runs, securing a dominant victory. Shafali Verma achieved the fastest fifty in the tournament's history. Shree Charani led the bowling attack with an impressive four wickets.
Arshdeep Singh showcased his outstanding bowling skills by limiting Afghanistan to 156 runs at the cost of eight wickets. Following that, Abhishek Sharma delivered an explosive performance, scoring 84 runs off just 32 balls, smashing seven sixes and seven fours. Ishan Kishan also played a significant role with his solid 42 runs. India clinched the victory comfortably by seven wickets, leading the series 1-0.
Quote of the day by Virginia Woolf remains powerful because it asks a timeless question: how much control do we have over our own lives? Her answer points toward the importance of economic security, professional skills and personal agency. Depending on others can sometimes be necessary and even deeply meaningful, but developing the ability to support oneself can create choices that dependence cannot always provide.
Gary Myers, a storied icon of North Carolinian racing, has breathed his last at the age of seventy-six. For over sixty years, he was a staple at Bowman Gray Stadium. As the patriarch of a remarkable four-generation racing family, which features both his sons and grandson, Myers excelled in modified racing, clinching a championship title in 1996.
President Trump stated the United States can afford $5,000 payments to all adults. This proposal was unveiled during the Republican Party convention last week. House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed congressional approval would be necessary for any payments. Democratic politicians criticized the idea as not being a serious proposal. Consumer watchdog Public Citizen called the move an attempt to buy votes.
BloodHound Q50, whose real name was Mikquale Cooper, was a 22-year-old Chicago rapper whose reported killing has drawn attention to his short music career and final Instagram Story. Heres what to know about BloodHound Q50, his age, real name, music, Chicago drill career and the social media post he shared hours before the fatal shooting.
The European Union will permit 2.5 lakh Indian passenger vehicles annually at a reduced 8 percent duty. This import duty concession will gradually decrease to zero percent over five years. Quotas for electric and hybrid vehicles also receive phased duty reductions and increases. Certain Indian agricultural and processed food items will also benefit from duty concessions. The free trade agreement is expected to be signed and implemented soon.
If you struggle to keep houseplants thriving due to inconsistent watering, consider varieties like snake plants and ZZ plants, which can go for long periods without water thanks to their moisture-storing abilities. Pothos plants thrive in low light and prefer to be a bit dry between waterings, while aloe vera loves bright light and stores water in its lush leaves.
Actress Rita Wilson courageously faced her fears to delve into new creative opportunities. Transitioning from acting to producing, she brought to life successful films such as My Big Fat Greek Wedding. In 2012, she also stepped into the music scene, releasing her own album AM/FM. Wilson discovered that songwriting provided her with a deeper sense of artistic freedom compared to her acting career.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked BRICS leaders for a productive summit. The Delhi summit concluded with key outcomes and advancements in cooperation. Leaders from Russia, China, Iran, and the UAE attended the important meeting. Several other heads of state and government also participated in the discussions. Modi held fifteen bilateral meetings on the summit's sidelines.
BloodHound Q50s last Instagram Story has drawn fresh attention after the 22-year-old Chicago rapper was reportedly killed in a deadly Fuller Park gas station shooting. In his last social media, the rapper extended support for EST Gee's release of the new album Bigger Than The Devil and enjoying Gee's latest track. BloodHound Q50 was sitting in driver's seat of a white 2019 Tesla at a BP station when he was targeted.
Chinese President Xi Jinping announced plans for an open-source AI ecosystem for BRICS nations. This initiative aims to boost cooperation in technology, manufacturing, and trade among members. China will pioneer a BRICS AI open-source community and support large language model development. The five-point plan also includes facilitating trade and deepening digital industry ties. BRICS countries will work towards writing a new chapter of strength through unity.
Ganesh Chaturthi, a ten-day festival, begins on September fourteenth. It concludes on September twenty-fifth with Ganesh Visarjan. The article provides wishes and messages for the 2026 celebration. These greetings focus on blessings of happiness and prosperity. They also offer messages for success and overcoming obstacles.
Mumbai police have rejected Manoj Jarange's request for a hunger strike, citing significant security risks. Jarange has deemed this move authoritarian and unjust, vowing to march towards Mumbai regardless of the police's refusal. He claims there is a plotted scheme against him during his demonstration. His supporters are encouraged to participate, even if it leads to honoring him in death.
Quote of the day by Lady Gaga offers a hopeful alternative: communities flourish when people choose understanding over judgment and compassion over indifference. The most meaningful change may begin with something remarkably simplemaking another person feel respected, accepted and loved.
Old curtains hold potential beyond their initial purpose. They can be reimagined into stylish cushion covers or eco-friendly shopping bags. Additionally, sturdy curtain fabrics can be crafted into storage organizers. The unique prints of curtains can add flair to table runners and placemats, while well-worn fabrics can be repurposed as handy cleaning cloths.
India and UAE trade is projected to reach USD 200 billion by 2032. Closer economic ties and the India-UAE CEPA have already boosted bilateral trade significantly. The UAE's participation in BRICS offers new avenues for expanding trade and investment opportunities. Indian states and UAE investors are actively exploring new avenues for collaboration. Increased awareness of CEPA benefits will be crucial for achieving this ambitious trade target.
Prime Minister Modi hosted a splendid BRICS gala dinner in New Delhi, which saw the participation of chief ministers from opposition-led states. The summit concluded with the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026, emphasizing the need for reforms in global governance and the inclusion of developing countries. The event also showcased a cultural performance that honored the shared heritage and diversity of the BRICS community.
Former NASA intern Gary George spent just $217.77 on 1,150 surplus NASA videotapes in 1976, unaware that three reels contained rare first-generation footage of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walking on the moon. Around 43 years later, the Apollo 11 tapes sold at Sothebys for $1.82 million, making Gary George a millionaire.

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