The Economic Times

India reaffirmed its support for Palestine's United Nations membership bid. New Delhi also reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution for peace. India's external affairs ministry secretary spoke at a donor group meeting. The nation continues its developmental and humanitarian assistance to Palestine. New projects focus on rehabilitation, health, education, and vocational training.

PV Sindhu secured a straight-game victory against Wong Ling Ching in the Japan Open. Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto also advanced to the second round in mixed doubles. Rohan Kapoor and Ruthvika Shivani Gadde were eliminated in their opening match. Sindhu controlled the match from the beginning, winning comfortably. Other Indian players are scheduled to compete later in the tournament.

Rajasthan maternal death mystery: Rajasthan government hospitals recorded nine maternal deaths in six days. Investigations are underway into these tragic fatalities across multiple districts. Other Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi face distinct maternal healthcare pressures. Families affected by these deaths seek accountability and systemic reforms. Ensuring safe pregnancy and childbirth remains a national concern.

Delhi Law Minister Kapil Mishra questioned AAP leaders' silence on Tahir Hussain's conviction. Hussain, a former AAP councillor, was convicted for the murder of IB officer Ankit Sharma. The conviction relates to the 2020 northeast Delhi riots which claimed many lives. The AAP stated Hussain was suspended from the party in 2020. Mishra alleged a larger conspiracy behind the 2020 riots.

Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader Ramachandra Gowda passed away at eighty-eight years old. Senior party leaders remembered his decades-long contribution to the party's growth. He dedicated his entire life to the nationalist movement from Jana Sangh to BJP. Gowda served as a Cabinet Minister and represented the Bangalore Graduates' Constituency. His departure marks the end of a long era of party strength and ideological commitment.

Sacked England test coach Brendon McCullum apologized for his team's poor results. He admitted failing to deliver the success the side wanted during his tenure. England lost twenty of their forty-nine tests under his leadership. McCullum's departure followed a series defeat and questions about team culture. He will continue coaching England's white-ball teams until twenty twenty-seven.

Jagannath Temple authorities will conduct a special inventory of the Ratna Bhandar on July 19. The deities will be at Gundicha Temple for their annual week-long stay during Rath Yatra. Gold and valuable ornaments removed for Snan Yatra will be digitally documented during this inventory. This inventory follows a standard operating procedure approved by the state government.

India's capital expenditure is projected to rise significantly by FY2030. Private sector investment is expected to accelerate, driven by domestic demand and policy support. Central government spending will continue focusing on infrastructure and defence projects. Multiple investment drivers are anticipated to make the capex cycle more resilient. Gross foreign direct investment trends also indicate improving investment patterns.

Bengaluru Flipkart delivery agent arrested: A 22-year-old Flipkart delivery agent has been arrested in Bengaluru after a woman alleged he forced his way into her apartment on the pretext of using the washroom and then exposed himself. The woman shared a video on social media before filing a formal complaint. Flipkart has terminated the agent and said it is cooperating with police.

Malda district administration has launched 'Amar Gram Amar Kalpana' for border villages. This initiative promotes community-led development and resident involvement in planning. Villagers shared their needs and suggestions during interactive sessions with officials. The program aims to gather community inputs for need-based development plans. This aligns local aspirations with national priorities for border settlements.

The West Bengal government has nearly doubled the daily diet allocation for hospital patients. This revised rate will be effective from August 1, officials confirmed. The enhanced allocation aims to improve meal quality and nutritional value for admitted individuals. This decision follows a review by a committee constituted by the Calcutta High Court. The government prioritizes better healthcare and public services for ordinary citizens.

The Italian proverb The wolf loses its fur but not its bad habits highlights enduring behaviors. Outward changes do not always reflect genuine inner transformation and growth. This saying emphasizes that lasting personal change requires conscious effort and self-awareness. It encourages evaluating character through consistent actions rather than mere promises. True character is revealed through enduring behavior, not just superficial appearances.

Sharing meals with others consistently boosts life satisfaction and positive emotions. Outdoor settings also provide psychological benefits, reducing stress and improving mood. Strong social connections are vital for mental health and emotional resilience. Backyard barbecues naturally foster these connections through relaxed interactions. These gatherings fulfill a fundamental human need for togetherness and shared experiences.

Quote of the day: Stephen King's quote on hope originates from his novella, which inspired a famous film. This powerful message transcends prison walls, offering universal encouragement. King, a renowned horror author, also explores human emotions and courage. His literary career spans decades, featuring many iconic novels. Hope provides direction and motivation, helping people overcome difficult circumstances.

Apple has launched the public beta for iOS twenty-seven, offering early access to users. This new software introduces advanced Apple Intelligence and an improved Siri assistant. Performance enhancements include faster app launches and quicker photo loading times. The update also brings a customizable Liquid Glass interface and smarter editing tools.

China's crude oil imports significantly dropped in June to a ten-year low. This decline occurred as refinery operations reached their lowest point in a decade. Domestic demand weakened, and refined product exports faced curbs to ensure energy security. Natural gas imports saw a slight year-on-year increase in June. However, overall natural gas imports for the first half declined.

A Bangkok music bar fire killed at least thirty people and injured dozens. This incident prompts investigations into the cause and contributing factors. Several other deadly club fires have occurred globally in recent years. These incidents highlight recurring safety issues in entertainment venues. Investigations continue into the Bangkok fire's specific circumstances.

IND vs ENG Playing 11: India aims to rebound against England in the first ODI match. Experienced stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli return for the Indian team. Jasprit Bumrah also rejoins the bowling attack after his absence. England retains its winning T20I combination for the upcoming series. Both teams prepare for the opening fixture at Edgbaston.

India and Spain are exploring enhanced economic cooperation in trade and investment. Minister Piyush Goyal met his Spanish counterpart to discuss future growth opportunities. Both nations aim to significantly increase bilateral trade beyond current projections. They are committed to strengthening industrial partnerships and resilient supply chains. This collaboration seeks to unlock the full economic potential for mutual benefit.

A Bengaluru toddler named Akira has achieved four World Records and three India Book of Records titles. She earned these distinctions before her second birthday through various physical activities. Akira's journey began with kick scootering, which she pursued with great enthusiasm. Her parents provided a supportive environment, allowing her to learn and grow at her own pace.

US President Donald Trump claimed Iran's top military leadership is wiped out and successor Mojtaba Khamenei is 90% gone. Trump announced an Iranian blockade alongside transit fees for the Strait of Hormuz, sparking a sharp rejection from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who insisted Tehran remains the waterway's guardian.

A shopper added a chocolate to meet a cashback offer's minimum purchase value. His main product was cancelled, leaving only the small snack for delivery. Delivery agents found the situation amusing while delivering the single chocolate. The incident sparked widespread reactions and shared experiences online. The shopper likely will not receive the cashback after the refund.

Subpoenas were issued to five New York Times journalists regarding Air Force One security reporting. This action is viewed as an unprecedented escalation by the administration. Media advocates expressed dismay at this tactic and its chilling effect. The administration has previously attacked news organizations and blocked media access. This move is seen as an extension of efforts to control unfavorable coverage.

A massive fire at a Bangkok music bar has claimed thirty lives. Over seventy individuals remain hospitalized, with twenty-four in critical condition. The blaze at Rong Beer Na Ladprao bar broke out late Sunday night. Firefighters battled for half an hour to control the devastating flames. Investigations are underway to determine the fire's cause and safety compliance.

India's women's cricket team honored Heather Knight and Tammy Beaumont after their final international match. Jemimah Rodrigues presented the retiring England stars with signed jerseys as a token of appreciation. The Indian team secured a historic 270-run victory in the one-off Women's Test at Lord's. Yastika Bhatia became the first woman to score a Test century at the iconic venue.

Tripura secured 342 MoUs worth Rs 1.21 lakh crore at a business conclave. The state aims to become a manufacturing, logistics, and services hub in the northeast. Over 2,000 investors and delegates attended the two-day Destination Tripura Business Conclave 2026. Investment proposals are expected to accelerate industrialization and generate employment opportunities. Tripura is positioning itself as a logistics gateway to Southeast Asia.

U.S. consumer inflation probably slowed in June, but rate hikes remain possible. Gasoline prices retreated from highs after a fragile ceasefire took hold. This truce collapsed, causing prices to reverse course and rise again. Higher food prices are also expected due to conflict and weather conditions. Core inflation, excluding food and energy, showed moderate increases.

President Trump seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing conflict with Iran. Securing this vital waterway may require tens of thousands of American troops on Iranian soil. Increased U.S. naval presence also carries risks of higher service member losses. Iran's threats alone can deter commercial vessels from using traditional shipping routes. The administration's rhetoric has outpaced its willingness to deploy forces for full neutralization.

Annapurna Bhandar Phone Number West Bengal: West Bengal's Annapurna Bhandar Yojana now provides eligible women a flat 3,000 monthly payment. This scheme replaces the previous Lakshmir Bhandar with a unified payout structure. Beneficiaries can check application and payment status through dedicated government portals. Official helpline numbers and government offices are available for assistance and queries. Applicants should avoid unofficial websites and never share personal financial details.

Iran secretly moved oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz before US threats. US strikes followed an Iranian attack on a Cyprus-flagged container ship. Iran retaliated against US allies, striking UAE oil tankers and killing an Indian sailor. The US announced a reinstated naval blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas. This escalation involves significant military actions and heightened regional tensions.

BJP president Nitin Nabin reviewed preparations for the Bankipur assembly bypoll. Neeraj Kumar Sinha filed nomination papers as the NDA candidate for the seat. Abhishek Kumar 'Bunty' withdrew his nomination citing family reasons for his decision. The bypoll is scheduled for July 30, with vote counting on August 3. Prashant Kishor and Rekha Gupta are among the other contenders.

Bihar Police arrested a 22-year-old man in Katihar for suspected terror network links. Mohammad Ahad was detained and later arrested based on specific intelligence inputs. Investigations revealed regular contact with a Pakistan-based gangster associated with a terror network. He allegedly exchanged chats and shared anti-national content on social media platforms. Security agencies are currently examining the accused and his seized mobile phone.

India and New Zealand's free trade agreement is expected to take effect by year's end. This pact will significantly enhance economic and trade relations between both nations. New Zealand's parliament has already approved the agreement, moving it through legislative processes. The agreement aims to build resilient supply chains and maintain economic certainty globally.

India launched its campaign for a UN Security Council seat for 2028-29. The nation will focus on maritime security and countering terror financing. India also champions a voice for the Global South and reformed multilateralism. Future-ready peacekeeping and addressing AI threats are key priorities. These efforts aim to secure global peace and stability.

Pythagoras, a Greek philosopher, founded a society in Croton, Italy. His quote emphasizes choosing the best path, even if initially rough. This reflects his belief in discipline and perseverance for achieving excellence. Custom and habit make difficult paths easy and agreeable over time. His teachings influenced later philosophers like Plato on soul transmigration.

China's exports jumped twenty-seven percent in June, driven by strong artificial intelligence demand. Imports also surged significantly, reflecting increased global needs for electronics. This export strength helps balance weaker domestic spending and investment within China. Policymakers globally have expressed concerns about trade imbalances with China. China is now localizing production and exporting more to developing regions.