The Economic Times

India's finance ministry stressed faster policy responses and stronger implementation for investment. The economy shows resilience despite global challenges and mounting uncertainties. Rising crude oil prices pose a risk to fiscal and current account balances. India must strengthen its long-term resilience and strategic leverage. Domestic fundamentals and policy support continue to bolster the economic outlook.

Instagram Viral Video: Social media shows professionals treating AI tools as modern gurus this year. Employees are humorously offering digital tributes to platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini. This trend reflects AI's growing role in daily work tasks and problem-solving. The concept of Guru Dakshina has humorously evolved into subscription payments for these services.

Israel plans a pilotless warplane similar to the F-35 stealth fighter. This initiative stems from reduced US defense aid and growing political isolation. The country seeks independent military production as support in Washington erodes. Past arms embargoes have previously spurred Israel's domestic defense manufacturing. Future US weapons sales face potential political restrictions and fierce debate.

Opposition parties walked out of Rajya Sabha after their demand was declined. They sought a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding police action. Students protesting the NEET exam leak faced alleged brutal force. The Chairman rejected their point of order and proceeded with listed business. Union Minister J P Nadda criticized the opposition's disruptive conduct.

Rahul Gandhi demanded a Supreme Court-monitored committee to investigate alleged brutalities against students. He shared a video clip showing police lathi-charging demonstrators during a protest march. Gandhi also called for the Union Home Minister's dismissal over the alleged attack. The Bharatiya Janata Party accused Gandhi of spreading falsehoods and demanded an apology. Many of Gandhi's remarks in Lok Sabha were expunged by the Speaker.

India faces a significant doping crisis, impacting its athletes and international credibility. Recent violations have led to suspensions and quota losses in weightlifting and judo. The nation's positivity rate in anti-doping tests remains the highest globally for three years. Proposed legal amendments aim to target the entire doping ecosystem, not just athletes. Strengthening enforcement and education is crucial for India's sporting future.

Singaporean entrepreneur Miza Nazili revealed her challenging path to business success. She faced significant debt and personal setbacks before achieving her current achievements. Nazili highlighted her journey from a school dropout to a successful business leader. She urged people to avoid comparing their own progress with others. Her story emphasizes resilience and the difficult beginnings of every success.

A major US clinical trial has found that silver diamine fluoride, a liquid painted onto cavities in seconds, stopped tooth decay in more than half of treated baby teeth without any drilling, injections, or sedation. Researchers say the findings could support FDA approval and transform how cavities are treated, especially in young children.

Birbhum Police raided a retired bus driver's home, seizing gold bars and cash. The significant haul included gold worth approximately twenty-one point five crore rupees. Investigators also discovered over twenty-eight point five crore rupees in cash bundles. The operation targeted Minar Mondal, a relative of stone trader Tulu Mondal. Authorities are investigating the source of this substantial seized wealth.

Hydrogen Bus Spain: A hydrogen-powered bus has been transporting passengers in Madrid, Spain, since June as part of a real-world trial. Powered by Bosch's fuel-cell technology, the bus offers a driving range of more than 1,000 kilometres on a single tank of hydrogen, demonstrating the potential of fuel-cell vehicles for long-distance public transport.

India's gold imports have increased through unofficial channels following a tariff hike. This rise widens margins for grey market operators and impacts organized businesses. Enforcement agencies seized nearly double the gold after the duty increase. Net gold imports fell significantly in the June quarter to a low. Demand may improve later if prices remain stable.

Indian hockey teams will wear saffron as their primary jersey at the upcoming World Cup. This change replaces the traditional blue kit and has ignited a debate among former players. Hockey India states the saffron color represents courage, sacrifice, and victory for the nation. The new design incorporates cultural patterns and national symbols, celebrating India's diversity. An alternate white jersey will also be available for the tournament.

Russian air strikes killed thirteen people across Ukraine on Thursday. Attacks extended to Lviv, prompting Poland to scramble fighter jets. Ukraine's President Zelenskiy returned from the United States after securing missile licenses. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian drone attack hit a Wildberries warehouse in Penza. These strikes continue to impact Russian businesses and infrastructure.

PlayStation Plus August 2026 brings Dying Light 2 Reloaded Edition, Big Walk, and Signalis, available from August 4. A free Marvel Tokon cosmetic pack arrives August 6. Head to PlayStation Store, add all three to your library before August 31, and they stay yours as long as you stay subscribed.

The Supreme Court permits police pellet gun use in exceptional situations. This observation came during hearings on petitions arising from a protest. The court directed the Delhi government to provide medical treatment. It also asked the Centre to preserve ammunition logs. This move is significant given the dispute over force used.

Best German Proverb of the Day: The German proverb Schlafende Hunde soll man nicht wecken offers wisdom on avoiding conflict. This ancient saying advises against disturbing settled issues or past grievances. It suggests that reopening old disputes often causes more harm than good. The proverb emphasizes discernment and the value of maintaining peace over being right. This timeless lesson remains relevant in modern German communication and relationships.

CRPF Director General Gyanendra Pratap Singh has stepped forward, reassuring his personnel of their authority to act without fear in difficult situations. He took responsibility for the legitimate actions they take, especially in light of recent scrutiny regarding the Rapid Action Force's methods. Following the protest incident, a detailed assessment will be carried out.

An applicant to IIT Kanpur allegedly hacked the institute's websites after being denied admission to its Bachelor of Cyber Security programme. He claimed he wanted a fair opportunity to demonstrate his cybersecurity skills. Instead of pursuing immediate legal action, the institute has decided to assess his technical abilities. If he proves his competence, IIT Kanpur may offer him an opportunity to apply through the next admission cycle.

Bankipur assembly bypoll saw low voter turnout in the initial hours. Prashant Kishor, a former strategist, is making his electoral debut here. The BJP has held this seat continuously since nineteen ninety-five. Senior leaders and ministers cast their votes early in the morning. Kishor alleged supporters were detained, claiming the BJP fears losing.

The CBSE Class 12 supplementary results for 2026 are anticipated in August. Over 1.63 lakh students took the compartment exam held on July 28. This exam offers a second chance for students to clear subjects and avoid losing an academic year. Candidates can download their results from the official CBSE websites after the announcement. The results will determine the final qualifying status for these students.

India plans a major infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island. This development aims to boost maritime trade and reduce foreign port reliance. However, the island's location in Seismic Zone V presents considerable geological risks. Engineers are developing innovative solutions to address seismic activity and land subsidence. The project's success hinges on adapting infrastructure to the island's volatile geology.

Bryan Johnson rethinks longevity project: Bryan Johnson, the tech entrepreneur who built his life around reversing ageing, posted on 30 July that he is questioning whether he has taken his longevity project too far. The admission comes weeks after he was diagnosed with an incurable disease, a development that briefly made him global news and drew both sympathy and mockery online.

India's Civil Aviation Ministry reviewed Sustainable Aviation Fuel adoption and CORSIA compliance. The meeting focused on SAF production, certification, and supply chain development. Discussions addressed timely SAF availability for anticipated demand from 2027. The government aims to establish a robust SAF ecosystem and a carbon market. Stakeholders were directed to expedite action points for mandatory CORSIA phase.

India has introduced stringent safety rules for the planned re-entry of space objects. Under the new guidelines, companies must ensure that such missions carry no more than a 1-in-10,000 risk of causing a human casualty. Operators will bear full liability for any damage caused by re-entering spacecraft or debris, while foreign companies must seek mission authorisation through an Indian-incorporated entity. The framework is intended to support the safe growth of India's rapidly expanding private

An Indian AI engineer lost his job and faces visa uncertainty in the United States. He is seeking advice on returning to India or pursuing further education. Reddit users suggest exploring Indian job prospects before committing to more studies. Some users warn of potential hiring challenges and pay cuts in India. The engineer weighs his options after working in the US for six years.

Heavy rainfall caused landslides and erosion along the Kedarnath Highway in Rudraprayag district. District officials inspected the affected areas and directed immediate restoration efforts for the vital route. Restoration work has reopened the road to traffic, though some boulders require clearing. River water levels have risen, prompting a high alert and advice for residents to relocate.

Operation Safed Sagar utilized precision bombs, striking intruders at high altitudes. Mirage 2000 jets delivered a decisive blow, hastening enemy withdrawal from strategic heights. MiG-21s and MiG-27s also supported air operations during the Kargil conflict. Helicopters provided crucial casualty evacuation and transport aircraft supplied forward airfields. The IAF's role turned the tide of the war in India's favor.

US President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu explored all paths to curb Iran's nuclear program. Diplomacy, economic pressure, and force were all discussed at length during their meeting. The Israeli official stated that Trump has three options for dealing with Iran. The United States and Saudi Arabia recently struck Iran-backed groups in Iraq. Israel views Iran's nuclear program as its biggest threat.

UPESSC UPTET Result 2026: The Uttar Pradesh Education Service Selection Commission will soon declare the UPTET Result 2026. Over 17.7 lakh aspirants appeared for the recent teacher eligibility test. The commission utilized Artificial Intelligence for monitoring and detected impersonation cases. Previous years show fluctuating pass percentages for both papers. Candidates can check their scorecards on the official UPESSC website.

Maharashtra FDA has banned junk food sales within fifty meters of schools. This move aims to promote healthier eating habits among students statewide. Principals and school management will face action for any violations of this new rule. Inspections will begin soon across the state to ensure strict compliance. The department also addressed a recent MPSC examination paper leak complaint.

Brazil's coffee fields show early flowering, experts noted on Wednesday. Unusually high moisture levels are causing concerns about bean quality this year. Rains have disrupted the usual dry harvest period, delaying shipments and impacting prices. This erratic weather is associated with the El Nino phenomenon affecting the region. Experts anticipate a record crop size despite these quality challenges.

Lionel Messi has returned to Inter Miami practice after his World Cup campaign. He missed two matches while visiting his father who is battling illness. Messi concluded his record sixth World Cup with eight goals and four assists. Inter Miami currently leads the Eastern Conference standings by two points. It remains uncertain if Messi will play in Saturday's home match.

Senior India batter Ajinkya Rahane announced his retirement from international cricket. He was one of India's most dependable performers across all formats. Rahane played a pivotal role in several memorable Test victories for India. He led India to a historic series triumph in Australia in 2020-21. Rahane remains active in domestic cricket and franchise leagues.

WhatsApp new features: WhatsApp has introduced audio and video calling directly on WhatsApp Web, requiring no app download. The update also brings call transfer between devices, a waiting room for group calls, QuickHD video, and noise suppression. All calls on the web remain end-to-end encrypted with no time limits or charges.

Air Marshal Sanjiv Ghuratia stressed collaboration for India's aerospace ecosystem. He highlighted the need for collective efforts and knowledge sharing among stakeholders. Indigenous technology development requires strong partnerships between industry and research institutions. Emerging technologies are shaping modern military capabilities and require national security focus. Achieving technological sovereignty demands integrating diverse capabilities into a unified framework.

Johnson & Johnson has struck a substantial deal worth more than five billion dollars, aimed at settling numerous lawsuits that allege cancer linked to its talc products. Following an ineffective bankruptcy resolution attempt, this latest agreement will facilitate quicker claims disbursement while keeping the door open for others who develop cancer-related claims in the future.

PhonePe has launched PhonePe PulsePro, an enterprise intelligence platform that converts aggregated and anonymised digital transaction data into hyperlocal, near real-time market insights. Built on PhonePe's payments network of 700 million users and 50 million merchants, the company said PulsePro will help businesses improve expansion planning, site selection, distribution strategy and category growth while tracking consumer behaviour and economic activity across India.

Uttar Pradesh has received twenty-five percent less rainfall than normal this monsoon season. This deficit is significantly impacting soil moisture and sowing conditions across the state. Eastern Uttar Pradesh has experienced a more pronounced rainfall shortage, affecting many districts. However, the weather department forecasts a revival of monsoon activity in early August. This expected revival should bring much-needed rainfall to most parts of the state.

Bengaluru startup Moonrider is developing electric tractors for Indian farmers. The company aims to replace diesel-powered machines with sustainable alternatives. Moonrider has secured significant funding and pre-orders for its innovative vehicles. Their tractors offer extended battery life and rapid charging capabilities. This initiative promises reduced operational costs for agricultural practices.

Vilayati babul, introduced during colonial times, remains a subject of ongoing debate. This invasive tree provided fuelwood and livelihoods but now threatens native vegetation. Its rapid spread consumes groundwater and restricts grazing areas for local communities. Research indicates a significant decline in plant diversity where it has invaded. The species presents a complex ecological and economic challenge for India.

American refineries are processing crude oil at their highest rates since before the pandemic. Global fuel supplies remain critically low due to ongoing conflicts and disruptions. Despite increased production, consumers face persistently high gasoline and diesel prices. US commercial crude stockpiles have fallen to their lowest levels since 2018.

Heavy rains caused major Uttarakhand rivers to swell significantly on Wednesday. Authorities suspended the Char Dham Yatra and are battling numerous road blockages from landslides. Several rivers, including Ganga and Alaknanda, are flowing near warning levels. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to move to safer locations immediately. An orange alert forecasts more heavy rainfall for Thursday in several districts.