The Economic Times

A Mizoram MLA will file a review petition against a Supreme Court order. The order concerns dual membership and office of profit for Autonomous District Councils. The MLA claims a material fact was concealed and natural justice was violated. He argues ADCs lack law-making powers regarding membership disqualifications. This issue affects multiple Autonomous District Councils across India.

State Bank of India has announced recruitment for 9,766 Junior Associate positions. The application window opens on August 11 and closes on August 31. Preliminary exams are scheduled for September, with Mains in November 2026. Candidates need a Bachelor's degree and basic computer literacy. Local language proficiency is also a requirement for applicants.

Rescue crews and civilians searched through rubble for survivors after a powerful earthquake hit western Colombia. The 7.4 magnitude quake collapsed buildings and buckled roads, leaving thousands missing and injured. Authorities reported at least 181 deaths, while civilian databases suggest a much higher number. The earthquake presents a significant challenge for Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella.

Noida International Airport in Jewar witnessed temporary waterlogging after heavy rain on Tuesday, with water entering the passage connecting the terminal and parking area. Airport teams cleared the water within 30 minutes, while flight operations remained unaffected. Videos of the incident went viral online and drew criticism over the airport's drainage arrangements.

Global youth unemployment increased in 2025, reversing pandemic recovery trends. Young people worldwide now face a worsening job market and fewer opportunities. The Arab States and North Africa experienced the highest youth unemployment rates. Middle-skilled jobs are declining, impacting young workers with secondary education. Artificial intelligence poses further risks to young people's employment prospects.

Sawan Amavasya, also known as Hariyali Amavasya, will be observed on August 12, 2026. Devotees will worship Lord Shiva and perform rituals for their ancestors on this auspicious day. The Amavasya Tithi begins early on August 12 and concludes late that evening. Bathing in holy rivers and making donations are considered highly beneficial practices. These traditions are believed to bring peace, happiness, and ancestral blessings to families.

The Powerball jackpot has soared to an astounding one billion dollars, with the next drawing set for Wednesday, August 12. Players have the option to receive their winnings as a lump sum or through an annuity. Despite the enticing prize, winning remains a daunting challenge with odds standing at 1 in 292.2 million. Previously, multiple smaller jackpots have already been awarded this year.

The Himachal Pradesh government has imposed a new cess on fuel. This levy of sixty paise per litre applies to petrol and diesel. The Widow and Orphan Cess came into effect from midnight on August eleventh. Revenue generated will support welfare measures for widows and orphaned children. This move follows recent legislative amendments empowering the state government.

Karnataka Bandh 2026 will be observed on August 13 from 6 am to 6 pm over the Cauvery water dispute and demands linked to the Mekedatu, Mahadayi and Kalasa-Banduri projects. Schools, offices and essential services are expected to remain open, while transport, shops and inter-state travel may face disruptions.

Ukraine has intensified long-range drone and missile strikes deep inside Russia, targeting oil infrastructure, defence facilities and air defences as Kyiv seeks to shift the wars dynamics. The campaign has strengthened Zelenskyys standing with Trump but faces limits, including Russian counterattacks, air-defence shortages, costly operations and uncertainty over Putins willingness to negotiate.

Surya Grahan kab lagega 2026, 12 August Solar Eclipse date, time, sutak kaal: The traditional rule is that Sutak is observed only when an eclipse is visible at the concerned location. As the August 12 solar eclipse will not be visible in Delhi or other checked Indian locations, Sutak is not applicable in India under the visibility-based traditional rule, including for children, elderly people and those who are unwell.

Arthur Conan Doyle brilliantly illustrates the significance of perception, suggesting it often outweighs the actual actions taken. His iconic character, Sherlock Holmes, epitomizes this notion through exceptional observational skills. As a Scottish author and physician, Doyle introduced timeless characters while also delving into the contentious realm of spiritualism, leaving behind a legacy that remains influential through 'The adventures of Sherlock Holmes'.

Indias recognition of heatwaves as a notified natural calamity could unlock dedicated disaster funds for states to strengthen heat action plans and protect vulnerable communities. Experts say the move can finance cooling shelters, water points, health preparedness and worker safeguards, while stressing the need for locally owned, well-funded and effectively implemented measures.

Heavy rain triggered a landslide in Mumbais Kurla area early Wednesday, with two people feared dead and six to eight others reportedly trapped. Rescue operations were underway at Gaushiya Chawl in Chirag Nagar, involving fire brigade, police, NDRF and civic teams. Two injured teenagers were admitted to Bhabha Hospital and remained stable.

Indian rice exporters face significant logistical challenges at Kandla port. Cargo clearance now extends to forty days, impacting perishable rice shipments. This congestion occurs while India holds substantial rice stocks and anticipates global demand. Container shortages further exacerbate issues for basmati and non-basmati rice exports. These disruptions are causing global non-basmati rice prices to increase.

Delhi-NCR weather today, August 12: On Wednesday, the skies over Delhi and the NCR are predicted to turn cloudy, bringing rain showers throughout the day. Noida and Ghaziabad might encounter substantial rainfall, potentially accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Meanwhile, areas like Faridabad and Gurgaon could see lighter, moderate rain. In Delhi, expect temperatures to fluctuate between a low of 29C and a high of 36C, with neighboring NCR cities experiencing similar conditions.

In a lovely private ceremony, Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez pledged their love for one another, with their five children by their side in Cascais. This momentous occasion marks one year since the couple publicly announced their engagement online. Ronaldo, a football legend, commemorated the event with a simple yet elegant post on Instagram, showcasing the enduring love he shares with Rodriguez.

An overloaded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba, killing at least fifteen people. Seventy-seven individuals were rescued and brought to a small island after the incident. Boats are now being dispatched to bring the survivors back to safety. An underwater team is conducting search and rescue operations on the vast lake. The ferry, which exceeded its carrying capacity, was reportedly ageing.

President Trump undertook an unprecedented secret overseas trip using a decoy plane. He concealed his movements from officials and the press corps for security. Past presidents also made covert journeys to war zones for security reasons. These trips involved elaborate security measures and secrecy for the commander in chief. Such actions highlight the ongoing challenges of presidential security and transparency.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez have celebrated their love by marrying in a sweet ceremony in Cascais, Portugal. This special moment was shared with fans through a touching joint post on Instagram, attended by their five children, adding warmth to the intimate gathering. The couple's commitment comes amidst swirling rumors of a previous wedding in Madeira. Their love story began in Madrid while Rodriguez was part of the Gucci team.

The India Meteorological Department warns of extensive rainfall spanning numerous Indian states. On August 11, isolated regions of East Rajasthan may experience exceptionally heavy downpours. The Himalayan regions and Northeast are projected to see significant rainfall throughout the week, while thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds may affect other areas. Residents in susceptible locales should stay vigilant and prepared.

Bangladesh's foreign ministry expressed outrage over ex-PM Hasina's press conference in New Delhi. The ministry accused India of encouraging the exiled leader's statements against Bangladesh. India maintains it had no role in organizing the private media event. This action reflects the ruling party's domestic political agenda and nationalist stance. The government's stance is seen as hypocritical given past exiled political activities.

US President Donald Trump confirmed he secretly left Turkey on another aircraft after security officials warned of a threat, while Air Force One flew as a decoy. Trump said he followed Secret Service and military instructions. The extraordinary manoeuvre, reportedly prompted by an Iranian threat, has raised fresh questions over presidential security and transparency.

In a notable legal decision, a judge mandated that the Kennedy Center compensate jazz musician Chuck Redd with over $250,000. This follows Redd's cancellation of a Christmas Eve show due to President Trump's name being displayed prominently. Although the Kennedy Center threatened legal action for $1 million, the judge dismissed the case, referencing a lack of a binding contract and the protective measures under the district's anti-SLAPP law.

A US judge has dismissed securities and wire fraud charges against Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar, ending the criminal case over alleged bribes tied to Indian solar contracts. The dismissal with prejudice bars the government from reviving the charges, potentially clearing the way for Adani Group to expand in America.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran has discussed the possibility of stepping down ahead of the August 18 AGM, amid uncertainty over his reappointment as a director and tensions with Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata. The suspension of Sir Ratan Tata Trust has further complicated voting rights, quorum and the meetings legality.

'Deep State coup against Trump: Navarro makes explosive claim, cites newly revealed classified docs

In an extraordinary 2017 solar eclipse, zoo animals displayed peculiar behaviors that took researchers by surprise. Galapagos tortoises started mating, while gibbons serenaded with unfamiliar melodies. Gorillas settled into their nighttime routines, and giraffes momentarily bolted from imagined threats. Interestingly, wild aerial creatures responded to the dimming skies by halting their daylight pursuits, perceiving the phenomenon as an impending storm.

A low-pressure area is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal soon. This system will bring very heavy rain to several south Bengal districts. Coastal districts like North and South 24 Parganas will see significant showers. Heavy rain is forecast for other districts until August fifteenth. North Bengal will also experience heavy rain from August fourteenth to seventeenth.

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission of India to furnish data. This data concerns the number of appeals disposed of by tribunals in West Bengal. The court emphasized the importance of seeing the progress of appeals filed. Grievances about denial of public distribution system benefits must go to the high court. The primary issue for the court remains the quantum of disposals by tribunals.

India faces Sri Lanka in a Test series with no current player knowing defeat. The team's bowling attack shows significant inexperience in Jasprit Bumrah's absence. Batting also appears shaky despite Shubman Gill's recovery and Yashasvi Jaiswal's hunger. This series is crucial for India's World Test Championship qualification hopes. Victory is not guaranteed, and defeat remains a distinct possibility.

Tamil Nadu's assembly passed a resolution against the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test. The state reiterated its long-held stance against the examination, citing its negative impact. This test has diverted students' focus from school curriculum to coaching centers. The resolution urges the central government to abolish NEET for undergraduate medical admissions. Tamil Nadu proposes admissions based on Class 12 examination marks.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced the cancellation of the 14th JPSC Civil Services exam. He assured that two other JPSC examinations would also be cancelled by the government. Protesting students had demanded the cancellation of the 14th JPSC examination for some time. The Chief Minister accused the BJP of instigating students and spreading conspiracies. Student protests continued in Ranchi while the government promised reforms.

NDA MPs and Union ministers welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with waving national flags and energetic slogans. Subsequently, they gathered to protest outside Parliament's main gate against police actions in Jharkhand. Accusations flew towards Rahul Gandhi for sidestepping debates concerning student protests, while opposition INDIA bloc MPs organized a separate rally on the same grounds.

Social and welfare ministries have seen many secretary changes over five years. Strategic and security portfolios like home and defence show greater continuity. The education ministry has had three secretaries since 2021. Minority affairs ministry is now with its sixth secretary since 2021. Health and family welfare ministry has seen four different secretaries.

Indigenous unmanned systems will be showcased for the Indian Air Force next month. Long-range systems and swarm drones are a special focus for this event. The air force leadership will examine drones with over 1,000 km range capabilities. Expendable drones for surveillance and intelligence gathering will also be displayed. Logistics drones for casualty evacuation and cargo delivery are also expected.

Churches in Mizoram held a rally in Aizawl opposing the proposed FCRA bill. Supporters carried banners and placards against the amendments during the protest. CCM president R Lalbiakliana stated churches and NGOs could face asset seizure. He mentioned the Centre claims amendments strengthen safeguards and are not targeting Christians. The proposed FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026, is currently under consideration.

Textiles and apparel exports are projected to reach 3.3 lakh crore by FY26. Tobacco product exports saw significant growth in quantity and value over ten years. Oil palm cultivation has achieved 42% of its mission target, with states showing varied performance. Negotiations for an interim trade pact with the US are currently ongoing. India is also working to diversify supply chains in critical sectors like energy and electronics.

The Union government may send the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill to a joint parliamentary committee. Opposition parties have demanded the bill's withdrawal, citing concerns over its provisions. BJD MP Sasmit Patra personally requested the bill be sent for larger scrutiny. Several Christian community leaders and Mizoram CM also sought changes. The bill's retrospective application is a significant concern for various groups.

The Tamil Nadu assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the Centre to withdraw the Foreign Contribution Amendment Bill. This proposed legislation raises concerns over the government's power to seize assets of charitable organizations. The bill's provisions could significantly impact educational and healthcare institutions run by minority groups. The Tamil Nadu government stated its objection to the bill's current form and provisions.

The government plans a substantial compensation hike for atrocity victims under the SC/ST Act. Financial assistance will also be provided to states for special police stations. This move aims to strengthen the enforcement of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The proposal seeks to address concerns over inadequate institutional infrastructure for handling such cases. Compensation for victims is expected to rise significantly after a decade.

The Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court's decision on Tuesday. This decision denied interim relief to a Trinamool Congress faction. The court noted the party has sufficient funds for daily operations. Discussions on the merits were deemed inappropriate as the matter is pending. The bench stated it was not inclined to interfere in these matters.