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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

India's exports rise 15% in April-July; Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confident of $1 trillion target

India's exports saw a 15 percent increase during the first four months of this fiscal year. The Commerce Minister expressed optimism about reaching the $1 trillion export target by 2026-27. Nine free trade agreements have been concluded in the past four years. These agreements have opened many new possibilities for domestic industries.

12 Aug 2026 2:57 pm
India strikes gold three times as fencing haul reaches 29 in Lagos

India's fencing team achieved significant success on day three of the championship. They secured three gold, one silver, and one bronze medal in various events. Kanaglakshmi won gold in women's foil, and Rajendran Shanthimol Sherjin took gold in men's epee. Singh Karan Singh clinched another gold medal in the men's sabre competition. This performance brought India's total medal count to twenty-nine at the event.

12 Aug 2026 2:53 pm
Punjab drug war, jobs record under scanner as NAPA seeks white papers

The North American Punjabi Association has requested detailed reports from Punjab's Chief Minister. They seek verifiable data on the government's progress in combating drug abuse. The association also demands transparency regarding job creation for unemployed youth. NAPA wants specific figures on drug seizures and rehabilitation efforts. They also require year-wise data on employment opportunities and vacancies filled.

12 Aug 2026 2:51 pm
Probe report on Justice Yashwant Varma presented in Parliament

An inquiry report concerning Justice Yashwant Varma was tabled in Parliament. This report investigated allegations of unaccounted cash found at his residence. Justice Varma resigned after a fire revealed burnt currency in a storeroom. Removal proceedings against him have now become infructuous. His resignation has not yet been officially notified by the law ministry.

12 Aug 2026 2:42 pm
Placing a piece of aluminium foil above refigerator shelf: Why more people are doing it and its benefits

Lining fridge shelves with aluminium foil is a simple, low cost habit that catches spills, reduces bacterial buildup, and keeps food fresher for longer. Backed by research on fridge contamination and foil's barrier properties, it is one of those kitchen habits that makes more sense the more you understand it.

12 Aug 2026 2:42 pm
India plans insurance reforms to rein in healthcare costs, sources say

India is considering sweeping health insurance reforms to standardise treatment rates, coverage and billing, while expanding a nationwide claims exchange, sources said. A regulatory panel is expected to submit recommendations by year-end as authorities seek to curb medical inflation, reduce fraudulent claims and encourage greater insurance coverage across the country.

12 Aug 2026 2:40 pm
NEET-PG rules: States still impose varying seat eligibility despite SC domicile ruling

NEET-PG aspirants continue to face varying eligibility rules across states despite a Supreme Court ruling barring domicile-based preference in postgraduate medical admissions. Differences in state counselling requirements, reservation benefits and eligibility conditions have prompted parents to seek uniform implementation, a common counselling portal and clearer national guidelines for admissions.

12 Aug 2026 2:32 pm
India rolls out first customized 19-coach rake for Bangladesh Railway

Rail Coach Factory Kapurthala is launching nineteen LHB broad gauge passenger coaches for Bangladesh Railway. These custom-designed coaches feature advanced amenities and crashworthy design meeting European standards. The rake includes AC sleeper, AC chair, and Non-AC chair coaches along with power cars. This initiative builds upon a successful cooperation that began in 2015-16.

12 Aug 2026 2:30 pm
FCRA Amendment Bill 2026 referred to joint parliamentary committee for review

The government has initiated a proposal to refer the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 to a Joint Committee of Parliament. This significant bill will engage thirty-one members from the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, tasked with scrutinizing its contents and offering recommendations, with a report expected by the Winter Session of 2026.

12 Aug 2026 2:29 pm
India hands over five radial laser boats to Seychelles are defence, maritime partnership deepens

India has recently enhanced its maritime relations with Seychelles by providing five laser radial boats aimed at improving seamanship training for personnel in the Seychelles Defence Forces. This handover coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June visit to the country and underscores Indias ongoing dedication to strengthening defense cooperation and capabilities within this vital island partner.

12 Aug 2026 2:23 pm
Over Rs 1,000 crore likely needed for rehabilitation of Assam flood victims: Himanta Biswa Sarma

With flood damage repair estimated beyond Rs 1,000 crore, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has received assurance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for full support in the relief and rehabilitation efforts. Initial assessments indicate that more than 8,000 families face damages totaling Rs 150 crore. The assessment process will extend until August 30.

12 Aug 2026 2:22 pm
Ceiling fan cleaning tips? Try these simple and affordable home cleaning tricks to remove stubborn dust, dirt and grease from fan blades

Ceiling fans can gather dust over time, necessitating routine cleaning to ensure a comfortable environment. An old pillowcase is a clever tool for trapping dust from fan blades while a dry microfiber cloth effectively clears away loose dust. For stubborn grime, a mild soap solution can do the trick. Additionally, keeping the surrounding area tidy helps minimize the buildup of airborne dirt.

12 Aug 2026 2:22 pm
SC seeks response of Centre, BCI, CBI on plea seeking probe into activities of persons associated with CJP

In a significant move, the Supreme Court has requested responses from the Centre and other relevant organizations over a plea that claims the distribution of fraudulent legal degrees and fake advocates. The plea also raises serious concerns about the commercialization of judicial remarks, noting that parts of court proceedings have been cut and shared as memes. The court is actively looking into the potential misuse of oral observations from hearings.

12 Aug 2026 2:20 pm
Quote of the day by Ralph Waldo Emerson: 'It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be...' - American philosopher's timeless lesson on why true friends let you be yourself

Ralph Waldo Emerson, an influential 19th-century philosopher, strongly advocated for self-reliance and original thinking. His work inspired people to follow their instincts and forge their own paths. Emerson's musings on old friendships emphasize the joy of being free from societal pressure, where trust and authenticity create meaningful connections. His timeless ideas continue to empower those in search of inspiration and deeper understanding.

12 Aug 2026 2:20 pm
Ill even discuss why they didnt want debate: Amit Shah challenges Opposition, Rahul Gandhi

Ill even discuss why they didnt want debate: Amit Shah challenges Opposition, Rahul Gandhi

12 Aug 2026 2:09 pm
Atiq Ahmeds son Abaans car accident video shows what happened in final minutes before fatal crash. Watch

A dashcam video has emerged depicting Abaan Ahmed's vehicle dangerously speeding before it crashed. The car swerved past a pickup truck only to collide with a road divider, resulting in the tragic deaths of both Abaan and his friend Sonu. Meanwhile, three other passengers suffered injuries and were taken to the hospital. Authorities are currently reviewing the footage to ascertain the reasons behind this devastating accident.

12 Aug 2026 1:59 pm
India vs Afghanistan T20Is: Where to watch live, streaming platform, dates and details

FanCode has secured exclusive digital rights to stream India's upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan. The three-match series will be played in Delhi on September 13, 15, and 17. This acquisition significantly strengthens FanCode's expanding cricket coverage and digital offerings. Fans can watch the matches live on the FanCode app and through various distribution partners. Afghanistan Cricket Board CEO expressed pleasure in extending the partnership for this landmark series.

12 Aug 2026 1:48 pm
Kate Middletons name became a royal branding battle and Prince William was reportedly fuming

Prince William was reportedly fuming after King Charles and Queen Camilla suggested Catherine, Princess of Wales, change the spelling of her name to Katherine to avoid adding another C to royal monograms. Author Christopher Andersen described Williams reaction as insulting, while royal commentators debated the branding-driven request and Catherines attachment to her name.

12 Aug 2026 1:47 pm
90% of Indias GCC leaders confident through 2030, but AI literacy stuck at 27%

India's Global Capability Centres are becoming AI hubs, but leadership AI literacy remains low. Most leaders are confident India will lead globally through 2030. However, less than 30% of leaders possess sufficient AI literacy for strategic decisions. GCCs must reskill over 40% of their workforce for this AI transformation.

12 Aug 2026 1:43 pm
Want to work with CJP? Party invites volunteers for tech team

The Cockroach Janta Party is recruiting unpaid technology volunteers for its website development. Abhijeet Dipke leads the party's organizational expansion efforts and its new National Working Committee. The party also voiced support for student protesters in Jharkhand facing alleged police brutality. Founder Abhijeet Dipke criticized the police action and spoke with an injured student leader.

12 Aug 2026 1:41 pm
Woman took a home loan at 12% interest, but Citi Bank charged up to 16.5% and recovered Rs 12.9 lakh extra; consumer commission orders refund and Rs 1 lakh compensation

Citi Bank has been ordered to refund Rs 12,91,248 to a home loan borrower after the Delhi State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission found it charged interest at rates up to 16.5 per cent against an agreed rate of 12 per cent, and withheld information about an RBI circular that gave the borrower the option to switch to a lower rate system. The bank has also been directed to pay Rs 1 lakh in compensation and Rs 50,000 in litigation costs.

12 Aug 2026 1:39 pm
Tension building in the Arctic? Putin warns 'NATO infiltrators'; says 'Russia will respond in kind'

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday warned that tensions are building in the Arctic and accused NATO of infiltrating the Asia-Pacific region. He also called the seizure of Russian trade vessels by EU countries piracy, warning that Russia would respond in kind if Western countries seize Russian commercial ships.

12 Aug 2026 1:24 pm
Calico Ghost Town: How a thriving silver town in the Mojave Desert collapsed in just 12 years

Calico, a once-thriving town in California, saw its fortunes rise with a silver rush that began in 1881. Unfortunately, the gold rush faded by the 1890s as silver prices plummeted, causing miners and businesses to abandon the area. In the 1950s, Walter Knott took it upon himself to restore this ghost town. Today, Calico stands proud as a lively historic park, immortalizing its rich mining heritage.

12 Aug 2026 1:22 pm
Amid Air India pilot marijuana row, Singer Kunal Ganjawala reveals how his forefathers started marijuana cultivation for medicinal purposes during British rule

Kunal Ganjawala, the well-known singer, has shed light on the interesting legacy behind his surname, which relates to his family's historical involvement in marijuana cultivation for medicinal purposes. During the British colonial era, they supplied this crop to the government until the practice ceased around the time of the Quit India Movement. His surname often sparks intrigue and humor, while his family was recognized as licensed pharmacists in those times.

12 Aug 2026 1:20 pm
CAS chaos: Retail traders call for boycott, declare 'No Trade Day'

Retail traders are observing a proposed No Trade Day on August 12 to protest the newly introduced Closing Auction Session (CAS), higher securities transaction tax and changing market rules. The campaign follows concerns over increased volatility and divergence in closing prices since CAS was introduced.

12 Aug 2026 1:19 pm
'If your child gets lost or separated in public...': Ex-army doctor shares 5 rules parents should teach

An ex-army doctor has shared a child safety plan for parents to follow if children get separated in a crowded public place. The advice includes teaching children to stop and stay, yell for help, approach trusted adults, memorise a parent's phone number and use a family code word.

12 Aug 2026 1:14 pm
Cauvery water dispute: SC to hear on August 17 pleas urging direction to Karnataka to release water to Tamil Nadu

The Supreme Court will hear Tamil Nadu's plea on August 17. This hearing concerns Karnataka's compliance with Cauvery water release orders. The matter was postponed due to a judge's illness, which caused a delay. Tamil Nadu seeks enforcement of the Cauvery Water Management Authority's directives. The court aims to ensure Tamil Nadu receives its rightful water share.

12 Aug 2026 1:05 pm
Supreme Court to hear plea raising issue of disruption of essential services during protests

The Supreme Court will hear a plea concerning essential service disruptions during protests. Counsel informed the bench about disturbances to ingress and egress. The court questioned how to issue a specific direction for such issues. This petition was tagged with a pending plea regarding Jantar Mantar protests.

12 Aug 2026 1:02 pm
Why everyone is talking about Yesteryear: The viral book Anne Hathaway bought rights to before it was published

Caro Claire Burke's debut novel Yesteryear has become a significant social media phenomenon. The book explores themes of American fantasy and the performance of womanhood. Anne Hathaway acquired film rights before the novel's official publication date. Yesteryear has spent seventeen weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.

12 Aug 2026 12:58 pm
'Amit Shah has no courage': LoP Rahul Gandhi says Opposition wants answers, not 'lecture'

Rahul Gandhi rejected Amit Shah's debate offer on student protests, demanding accountability. He questioned who ordered the alleged police action against students during recent protests. Amit Shah stated the government is ready for a detailed parliamentary discussion on the matter. He countered accusations of absence, citing opposition disruptions in Parliament. The standoff has caused repeated disruptions in both houses of Parliament.

12 Aug 2026 12:56 pm
N Chandrasekaran: From TCS trainee to Tata titan, the Ratan Tata pick signs off

N Chandrasekaran resigned as Tata Sons chairman, ending his nearly decade-long tenure, with his term set to expire in February 2027. His reappointment had received support from Tata Trusts, the nomination committee and board but stalled after opposition from one director. Under Chandra, Tata expanded into aviation, semiconductors, electronics, batteries and digital businesses, while group revenues and profits rose sharply.

12 Aug 2026 12:55 pm
Quote of the day by Ed Harris: 'You cant betray yourself too often, or you...' Life lessons from inspiring quote on compromises, personal identity, core values, true nature

Quote of the day by Ed Harris, You cant betray yourself too often, or you become somebody else, explains how repeated compromises can affect personal identity. The quote focuses on self-respect, authenticity, personal values and the choices people make in careers, relationships and personal growth while seeking approval from others.

12 Aug 2026 12:48 pm
Character AI Down Today: Users report login issues, app problems and unexpected account logouts

Character AI down: On August 12, Character AI faced considerable access issues, leaving numerous users unable to log in or fully utilize its chatbot features. Some encountered surprise restrictions on their accounts when trying to access the service. The reason behind these disruptions is still unknown, and Character AI has not provided any official update about the ongoing situation.

12 Aug 2026 12:48 pm
Independence Day 2026: The Kolkata chemist who sold foreign medicines, backed Swadeshi and built a pharma empire

Independence Day 2026: Butto Kristo Paul & Co. started as a modest establishment focused on importing foreign medicines. Over time, it blossomed into a prominent Indian pharmaceutical giant in colonial Calcutta, dedicating resources to manufacturing while actively supporting the Swadeshi movement. However, shifting market dynamics and rising competition ultimately resulted in its decline, leaving behind only one heritage pharmacy that remains to this day.

12 Aug 2026 12:48 pm
Jammu and Kashmir: SIA raids nine locations in 1990 double murder case

Jammu and Kashmir Police's State Investigation Agency conducted multiple raids across the Union Territory. These searches are connected to the 1990 abduction and murder of Sarwanand Koul Premi and his son. The writer and his son were killed by terrorists thirty-six years ago in Anantnag. This investigation is part of reopened cases involving minority community members' killings.

12 Aug 2026 12:48 pm
No solar eclipse glasses? Check 3 safe ways and things you shouldn't use to watch, how to protect your eyes and skin

As protective eclipse glasses fly off the shelves, people are seeking alternative ways to experience the beauty of the Sun. Pinhole projectors present a clever and safe option for observing solar events. It's vital to keep in mind that standard sunglasses don't provide adequate protection for direct solar observation. Additionally, specialized filters are necessary for photography and telescopes. Safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays during your viewing adventure.

12 Aug 2026 12:47 pm
India's small steelmakers could save money and cut emissions with switch to renewable power

Smaller steel firms in India can reduce electricity bills by one-third and cut carbon emissions by adopting renewable energy, which will offer substantial annual cost savings for these companies. For them, joint investments in clean power projects present a practical and viable solution. High costs and regulatory hurdles currently make this essential clean energy transition slow.

12 Aug 2026 12:42 pm
Claude watermark explained What Indian users need to know

Claude watermark explained What Indian users need to know

12 Aug 2026 12:33 pm
Amit Shah says ready for NEET debate from 3 pm, puts ball in Oppositions court

Home Minister Amit Shah has offered a detailed parliamentary discussion on student protests. He challenged the opposition to submit a letter to the Speaker by 2 pm. The government is ready for a 24-hour debate, starting today at 3 pm. Shah stated he would personally answer all questions raised by the opposition. The opposition must now decide between discussion or continued ruckus.

12 Aug 2026 12:32 pm
Lindsay Clancy Trial: Did she confess? What happens if jury is hung or she is found not guilty? Latest court update

Lindsay Clancys murder trial could end with a conviction, a not-guilty verdict based on criminal responsibility, or a hung jury. Heres what could happen next in each scenario, including the possible legal and mental-health consequences.

12 Aug 2026 12:29 pm
Actor Madhavan salutes TCS techie-turned Indian Air Force female pilot Bhawana Kanth, India's first woman 'Top Gun'

R Madhavan, who will next be seen in GDN, recently celebrated Bhawana Kanth's groundbreaking accomplishment as the first woman FCL pilot. Kanth previously made headlines by participating in India's Republic Day parade and was among the first three women fighter pilots commissioned in 2016. Madhavan once aspired to join the army but exceeded the age limit, having gathered military experience during his NCC training with British forces.

12 Aug 2026 12:26 pm
Wife sought higher maintenance citing husbands wealth; High Court rejects plea but orders Rs 46 lakh for daughters' education

Husband claims Rs 20 lakh debt and lost his earning capacity due to the hostile atmosphere and false complaints by wife; HC rejects wifes higher maintenance claim but orders him to pay Rs 46 lakh for daughters education. Know why he lost the case in Madhya Pradesh High Court.

12 Aug 2026 12:21 pm