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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

Irish Proverb of the Day: 'A friend's eye is a good mirror.' The forgotten saying that explains why choosing the right friends matters

Irish Proverb of the day: An old Irish proverb highlights how friends reflect our true selves. Honest friends offer truthful feedback, aiding personal development and growth. This proverb contrasts genuine friendship with superficial connections that avoid difficult conversations. It emphasizes that true friends provide clarity, not just comfort, for better self-awareness. Choosing such companions leads to a more accurate understanding of one's own character.

30 Jul 2026 6:59 pm
CWMA upholds Karnataka water release to Tamil Nadu; CM DK Shivakumar calls all-party meet on Sunday

The Cauvery Water Management Authority upheld a directive for Karnataka to release water. Karnataka argued hydrological distress, but its plea was rejected by the authority. Tamil Nadu sought increased water release, while the authority endorsed the existing directive. Karnataka's Chief Minister convened an all-party meeting to discuss the state's response. Protests continued across Cauvery basin districts following the order.

30 Jul 2026 6:58 pm
Quote of the day by George R.R. Martin from A Game of Thrones: Most men would rather deny a hard truth than face it.

George R.R. Martin, author of A Game of Thrones, highlights human nature's tendency to deny difficult realities. He suggests confronting truth requires courage and leads to growth and wiser decisions. Martin is an American novelist and producer, best known for A Song of Ice and Fire. His epic fantasy series inspired the acclaimed HBO television adaptation, Game of Thrones.

30 Jul 2026 6:56 pm
Quote of the Day by Tobey Maguire: I think the greatest way to learn is to learn by... How Spider-Man stars words inspire real-life growth and success

Tobey Maguire quote of the day: Tobey Maguire quote I think the greatest way to learn is to learn by someone's example emphasizes learning from others' actions and experiences. This quote highlights the value of observing role models for personal growth. In today's digital world, real-life examples offer practical lessons. Mentors and peers teach vital skills through their observable behaviors. Applying these lessons helps individuals develop better habits and values.

30 Jul 2026 6:51 pm
Times Food Delivery Awards North 2026: Celebrating excellence in Indias digital dining economy

The Times Food Delivery Awards North 2026 recently honored India's dynamic food delivery sector. This event recognized numerous restaurants and brands for their culinary achievements and innovations. Legendary and emerging businesses received accolades across diverse food categories. Ecosystem partners also contributed to the successful celebration of the industry's growth. The awards highlighted the ongoing transformation driven by technology and changing consumer demands.

30 Jul 2026 6:41 pm
In 1982, a failed engineering experiment by an African American turned into the world's most famous water gun that changed summers forever

Super Soaker water gun invention: An engineer's bathroom experiment unexpectedly sparked the invention of the Super Soaker water toy. Lonnie Johnson developed a powerful water gun prototype using common household materials. The Power Drencher quickly gained popularity and was later renamed the Super Soaker.

30 Jul 2026 6:38 pm
Delhi govt drops legal action against most CJP protestors; those with criminal antecedents still face action

The Delhi government will not pursue further legal action against protesters. This relief excludes individuals with criminal antecedents, as per a Supreme Court order. Police identified over 2,800 participants with criminal backgrounds using facial recognition technology. Violence erupted during the protest, injuring security personnel and protesters.

30 Jul 2026 6:37 pm
In 1910, Beavers nearly disappeared from the US. Today they are reshaping rivers again

North America's beaver population faced near extinction due to the fur trade. Fashion changes and conservation efforts allowed their numbers to slowly recover. Remarkably, beavers are now recognized for their role in managing drought and floods. Their dams create wetlands and act as fire refuges, benefiting ecosystems. This rodent's comeback highlights its value as a natural environmental engineer.

30 Jul 2026 6:34 pm
George Clooney and Amal forced to evacuate their $10.3 million France home; 'We have no idea whether our beautiful home makes it through'

George Clooney and Amal Clooney have evacuated their $10.3 million French estate as wildfires threaten parts of southern France. In an emotional letter, the couple said they have o idea whether their home will survive but pledged to support their local community. They said they hoped all their neighbours remained safe.

30 Jul 2026 6:33 pm
Ladakh grants protected monument status to 23 key heritage sites

Ladakh's Lieutenant Governor approved 23 heritage sites as protected monuments. This initiative safeguards ancient petroglyph fields, rock carvings, and historic forts. Key sites like Tingmosgang Fort and Saspol Caves now have statutory protection. The administration gains legal authority for conservation and regulation of these sites. This decision supports scientific conservation and responsible cultural tourism across Ladakh.

30 Jul 2026 6:32 pm
How a Self-Taught Widow invented modern water storage: Harriet Williams Strong's 1890s irrigation breakthroughs saved a drought-hit California ranch and transformed dry-land farming forever

In 1883, Harriet Williams Russell Strong was widowed, penniless, and left with four daughters on a failing California ranch. She had zero engineering training. Yet she studied local winter floods and invented a stepped-dam water storage system, earning a federal patent in 1887. Within five years, Harriet paid off every debt, revolutionized dryland irrigation, and became America's undisputed Walnut Queen. Here is how she changed Western agriculture forever.

30 Jul 2026 6:30 pm
In 2006, Canada launched a mission to save Atlantic salmon. Nearly 20 years later, the fish are returning

Atlantic salmon populations declined due to habitat destruction and overfishing. Conservation efforts involving captive breeding and habitat restoration began in the mid-2000s. The Respectful Returns project improved survival rates for migrating juvenile salmon. Indigenous knowledge and scientific monitoring guided successful restoration initiatives. These combined efforts have led to the encouraging return of salmon to native rivers.

30 Jul 2026 6:25 pm
Destroyed in 2005, reborn through LNG: Inside America's unlikely energy powerhouse

Cameron Parish, once devastated by Hurricane Rita, now leads America's liquefied natural gas boom. This transformation brings billions in revenue and reshapes global energy flows. The parish has become a vital LNG export hub, a turnaround once deemed impossible. Europe increasingly relies on American LNG amid geopolitical tensions and supply uncertainties. This shift offers economic revival and future opportunities for the coastal community.

30 Jul 2026 6:24 pm
Sheikh Hasina to be arrested immediately on return to Bangladesh, minister says

Bangladesh Law Minister Asaduzzaman stated Sheikh Hasina will likely face immediate arrest upon her return. She expressed determination to return home despite fearing for her life and potential imprisonment. Hasina's government was overthrown in August 2024, and she fled to India shortly after. She was later sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity by a special tribunal. Bangladesh has requested Hasina's extradition, which India is legally considering.

30 Jul 2026 6:14 pm
School Assembly News Headlines, July 31, 2026: Top national, international, business, sports updates and thought of the day

Parliament passed the Vande Mataram Bill, granting national song legal protection. Delhi Police reviews arrests amid NEET-UG protests, while Uttarakhand faces heavy rain. China establishes a high-altitude drone hub in Tibet for border operations. Pakistan works to mediate between the US and Iran amid regional tensions. Ajinkya Rahane retires from cricket, and Lionel Messi returns to Inter Miami practice.

30 Jul 2026 6:13 pm
Teen lifeguard Ryder Williams saved a 10-year-old from dangerous waves Santa Cruz, California, then returned to rescue 4 more people the same day

Ryder Williams, the 16-year-old lifeguard who rescued a 10-year-old boy from dangerous surf in Santa Cruz, didn't stop there. After returning to duty, he helped in four more rescues the same day as powerful waves and rip currents battered the California coast. US President Donald Trump has announced he would give him a High Civilian Honour.

30 Jul 2026 6:09 pm
Exporters flag West Asia crisis concerns to Goyal

Indian exporters face order uncertainty and higher logistics costs due to the West Asia crisis. Overseas buyers are cautious, seeking extensions and postponing new purchase decisions. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met with export promotion bodies to discuss the evolving situation. Goyal highlighted merchandise exports grew fifteen percent despite global uncertainties. The government is working to improve ease of doing business and reduce compliance burdens.

30 Jul 2026 6:08 pm
ICMR maps dengue strains nationwide as India eyes vaccine rollout

India's first dengue vaccine is nearing rollout as a study maps circulating virus strains. All four dengue serotypes are now circulating simultaneously in eight key states. This finding is crucial for shaping effective vaccination strategies across the nation. DENV-2 remains the dominant strain, but co-infections increase severe disease risk. Continuous molecular surveillance will guide future outbreak forecasting and vaccine deployment.

30 Jul 2026 5:59 pm
Rajasthan footwear artisan earning Rs 15,000 a month receives Rs 6 cr GST notice: Fake TN export firm was allegedly registered using his PAN; he suspects loan documents were misused

Rajasthan footwear artisan Jitendra Kumar Jingar, who earns Rs 10,000 to 15,000 a month making traditional leather shoes in Balotra district, received a Rs 6.78 crore GST recovery notice from Tamil Nadu's commercial taxes department after a fake export firm was allegedly registered using his PAN. His bank account has been frozen and he suspects documents submitted to a finance company in 2018 were misused.

30 Jul 2026 5:57 pm
Quote of the Day by Gigi Hadid: 'My mentality has always been, If I'm not the best at something, then I might as well be...'- Inspiring life lessons on why knowing your strengths can change your life by the American supermodel

Quote of the Day by Gigi Hadid: Gigi Hadid's quote highlights recognizing and pursuing individual strengths for success. She shifted focus from volleyball to modeling after realizing her potential. This mindset change transformed her into a globally recognized supermodel. Her career demonstrates that adaptability and confidence lead to significant achievements. Knowing your abilities and committing to them creates unparalleled opportunities.

30 Jul 2026 5:51 pm
Psychology says people who drink freshly squeezed orange juice instead of packaged ones may be focusing on health halo effect

Psychology suggests that preferring freshly squeezed orange juice over packaged juice has less to do with personality and more to do with perceptions of freshness, health, control, and authenticity. Everyday food choices are often shaped by consumer beliefs, sensory experiences, childhood memories, and the way people make decisions.

30 Jul 2026 5:48 pm
Quote of the day by Nassim Nicholas Taleb: A Stoic is someone who transforms fear into prudence, pain into... Inspiring life lessons on resilience, courage, self-discipline, decision-making, and why embracing uncertainty can build a stronger life by the Lebanese-American risk analyst known for The Black Swan and Antifragile

Quote of the Day by Nassim Nicholas Taleb: Nassim Talebs quote highlights the core engine of Stoic philosophy: turning emotional vulnerability into strategic action. Rather than suppressing negative emotions, a true Stoic channels anxiety into careful preparation and turns adversity into personal growth. This perspective reshapes how we approach risk, pain, and uncertainty in modern life.

30 Jul 2026 5:47 pm
Delhi Police registers 13 cases over NEET-UG protests at Jantar Mantar; govt orders arrest review

The Delhi police have announced they will refrain from pursuing any legal consequences against the NEET protesters. Following a Supreme Court directive, the government has conducted a swift review of the arrests made during the demonstrations. This results in no additional legal action against the participants, effectively concluding the matter and allowing individuals to move forward without fear of prosecution.

30 Jul 2026 5:42 pm
The landing boat that became a D-Day legend: In 1941, the day after Pearl Harbor, a patent was filed that helped defeat Nazi Germany

Higgins boat: Andrew Higgins patented a landing craft with a bow ramp on December 8, 1941. This invention, the Higgins Boat, enabled troops to land directly on enemy beaches. It proved crucial for Allied forces in numerous World War II amphibious operations. General Dwight D. Eisenhower stated the war's strategy would have differed without it.

30 Jul 2026 5:38 pm
In 1985, US generated over six times more electricity than China. By 2025, Dragon was producing more power than US, EU & India combined

China now generates more electricity than the United States and the European Union combined, marking a dramatic shift after decades of rapid industrialisation and economic growth. Despite massive investments in renewable energy, coal remains the country's largest source of electricity. At the same time, China is expanding its renewable and nuclear power capacity at an unprecedented pace.

30 Jul 2026 5:38 pm
Why are people putting a ball of aluminium foil in the washing machine? The surprising reason behind the viral laundry hack

A viral laundry hack involves using aluminium foil balls to reduce static cling. These crumpled foil balls help discharge static electricity which builds up during drying cycles. While effective for static, they do not replace fabric softeners for scent or softness. Users should ensure foil balls are smooth and check appliance manuals for safety. This inexpensive and reusable method offers a potential alternative for managing laundry static.

30 Jul 2026 5:38 pm
Pakistan 'doing its utmost' to bring US and Iran back to negotiating table: Foreign Office

Pakistan is actively working to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table. The nation supports dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable path forward. Regional security remains a significant concern despite a recent lull in hostilities. Both nations are urged to exercise maximum restraint and honor their commitments. Negotiations continue to normalize the situation and achieve de-escalation.

30 Jul 2026 5:36 pm
Quote of the day by Emmet Fox, 'You must not allow yourself to dwell for a single moment on any kind of negative thought' offers motivational timeless lesson on power of mind, reveals psychology behind staying positive in life

Quote of the day by Emmet Fox teaches people to become more conscious of where they place their attention. Negative thoughts may appear without invitation, but dwelling on them is a different process. By noticing unhelpful thinking, questioning exaggerated conclusions, focusing on practical actions, and making room for gratitude and hope, individuals can gradually develop healthier mental habits.

30 Jul 2026 5:32 pm
School holiday tomorrow, July 31: Will schools remain closed as IMD issues heavy rainfall alerts for several states?

School holiday tomorrow, July 31: Active monsoon conditions are causing concern for students and parents regarding school closures. The India Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rainfall across many Indian states. District administrations will decide on local holidays based on weather and safety. Punjab has a pre-announced holiday on July 31 for Martyrdom Day. Students and parents should monitor official announcements for updates.

30 Jul 2026 5:29 pm
Did Ben Affleck win 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' Here's the $1 million question about presidential turkey pardons that secured his victory

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Ben Affleck: Ben Affleck won the $1 million prize on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? after correctly answering a tense final question about the U.S. presidential turkey pardon tradition. Here's the exact question that secured the victory and helped raise $1 million for his Eastern Congo Initiative charity.

30 Jul 2026 5:29 pm
Can China restrain Iran? Gulf states test Beijing's influence

Gulf Arab states are seeking China's economic influence over Iran to secure vital shipping lanes. They are frustrated with Washington's perceived limits of power in the escalating regional conflict. China's role as a major trading partner presents both opportunities and sensitivities for Beijing. Beijing is cautiously engaging in diplomacy to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. China's strategy prioritizes economic ties over binding security commitments in the region.

30 Jul 2026 5:28 pm
US Army tests 'Hammer of the Gods' to blind its rivals. Here's what it is and what it can do

The U.S. Army successfully tested its new 'Hammer of the Gods' electronic warfare system. This system disrupts enemy positioning and navigation signals effectively. It also ensures friendly forces maintain vital communications in contested areas. The maritime demonstration occurred off the U.S. West Coast recently. This technology strengthens the Army's electronic warfare capabilities significantly.

30 Jul 2026 5:26 pm
LIC rejects insurance claim saying policyholder hid illnesses: Court says past typhoid, jaundice had no link with sudden heart attack; insurer ordered to pay over Rs 10 lakh

LIC rejects insurance claim saying policyholder hid illnesses: LIC rejected a death claim filed by a Guntur widow, arguing her husband had hidden past bouts of typhoid and jaundice when he took out a policy in 2021. A consumer commission has now ruled that those illnesses had no connection to the sudden cardiac arrest that killed him, and ordered LIC to pay Rs 10.10 lakh with 9 per cent interest.

30 Jul 2026 5:12 pm
PM Modi to launch nationwide campaign against drug abuse among youth on Aug 2: Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a nationwide campaign against drug abuse on August 2. This 100-week initiative aims to raise awareness among the country's youth. Over one crore youth will take a pledge to remain drug-free and help others. The campaign, led by MY Bharat, will involve various activities and organizations. This movement seeks broad societal participation to combat substance abuse effectively.

30 Jul 2026 5:06 pm
Chinese Proverb of the Day: To believe in ones dreams is to Life lessons on ambition, action, reality, determination and why success is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration

Chinese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of To believe in ones dreams is to spend all of ones life asleep. The saying reflects the difference between simply dreaming about success and taking meaningful action to achieve it. It suggests that while dreams inspire hope and ambition, they have little value unless they are supported by effort, discipline, and perseverance. Rather than discouraging people from dreaming, the proverb encourages them to turn their aspirations into reality throug

30 Jul 2026 5:00 pm
Snakes once had legs: Here's how they lost them 100 million years ago

How snakes lost their legs: A buried skull in Patagonia, a broken genetic switch, and the ghost legs still hiding inside pythons, scientists are finally closing in on one of evolution's strangest disappearing acts.

30 Jul 2026 4:59 pm
Still storing leftovers in aluminum foil? Doctors warn this everyday kitchen habit could increase metal exposure; here's a list of foods to avoid

Do you still store leftovers in aluminum foil? Doctors and medical experts have warned that this everyday kitchen habit, a practice common in the United States, may increase aluminum exposure, especially when wrapping hot, acidic, salty, or spicy foods. Storing tomato-based dishes, lemon or citrus-based meals, foods containing vinegar, pickles, salty foods must not be done.

30 Jul 2026 4:53 pm
'Manthan 2.0' is here; M&M to shift into 'attack mode' amid global churn, says Anand Mahindra

Anand Mahindra described the global economy as entering 'Manthan 2.0' with new uncertainties. Mahindra & Mahindra will now move into 'Attack Mode' to seize emerging opportunities. India is gaining relevance globally due to its manufacturing scale and stability. The company achieved historical highs and is innovating significantly. M&M will accelerate through uncertainty with a clear strategy and strong execution.

30 Jul 2026 4:53 pm
Severe Rainfall Alert: Heavy rain forecast in many states including Rajasthan, UP, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, Odisha, Gujarat, Hyderabad and more

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast across India from July 30 to August 1. Active monsoon conditions will bring intense showers and thunderstorms to many regions. Northern and central states, including Delhi, will experience significant rainfall activity. Eastern, northeastern, western, and southern parts of the country are also on alert. Residents should prepare for continued wet weather and potential gusty winds.

30 Jul 2026 4:49 pm
Psychology says people who eat very slowly and often finish last are not distracted, they may be trying to be mindful

Taking the longest to finish a meal may invite lighthearted jokes from friends or family, but psychology suggests it often reflects a combination of behavioral habits and individual differences rather than a specific personality trait. Ultimately, there is no single ight pace for eating. What matters most is developing eating habits that promote good health, allow you to enjoy your food, and encourage meaningful social connections.

30 Jul 2026 4:46 pm
Quote of the day by C. S. Lewis, 'Failures, repeated failures, are finger posts on the road to achievement. One fails forward toward success' reveals psychology that encourages life inspiring motivational comeback after every setback

Quote of the day by C. S. Lewis offers a powerful reinterpretation of failure. A setback does not automatically move someone backward. If it produces knowledge, resilience, or a better strategy, it can become a marker pointing toward future achievement. The road to success is rarely a straight line. It is more often a series of turns, obstacles, corrections, and discoveries. In the end, success belongs not only to those who achieve their goals quickly but also to those who remain willing to lear

30 Jul 2026 4:46 pm
Failure didn't stop them! 750 Indian schoolgirls faced failure on their first space mission; their second satellite is now orbiting close to ISS

AzaadiSAT-2, carrying experiments by 750 Indian schoolgirls, successfully entered Earth's orbit. This achievement followed an initial launch failure six months prior. The project aimed to encourage girls in STEM careers across India. Students designed and built small scientific experiments for the satellite. This initiative provided valuable hands-on space education for many students.

30 Jul 2026 4:44 pm
Psychology behind why older people hide their wealth from their children: It has nothing to do with trust or selfishness

Psychology of older people hiding wealth: Elderly Indians often hide financial details from their children. This secrecy stems from a desire for control and fear of becoming a burden. Past scarcity experiences also shape their cautious approach to money. Parents aim to protect family harmony and their provider identity. Open conversations about health and care can alleviate financial anxieties.

30 Jul 2026 4:29 pm