The Economic Times

The Bankers' Books Evidence Act, 2026 will become effective from October 1. This new law modernizes the use of banking records as evidence in courts. It recognizes records in various formats, including electronic and cloud-based systems. The Act also simplifies the certification process for these banking records. Provisions may extend to other financial sector entities as the landscape evolves.

A tech entrepreneur who quit a 75 lakh-per-year job to build a startup says the company's first product became irrelevant within 30 days after the rise of ChatGPT and Google's AI tools. The startup lost all its customers, took seven months to find a new direction and another nine months to build a meaningful product.

Quote of the day by Alexander von Humboldt offers a simple way to understand a complicated world. His thinking placed connection above isolated facts. Nature, people and everyday decisions rarely exist alone. One event can affect another in ways we miss. This idea makes his life wisdom relevant to perspective, balance, curiosity and understanding how different parts of life fit together.

The meeting comes as leaders of BRICS countries prepare to gather for the summit, which is being hosted by India. Modi and Putins meeting is part of a series of bilateral engagements involving the participating leaders before the main summit.

Indian boxers prepare for the demanding Asian Games 2026 in Japan. This event follows a record-breaking Commonwealth Games performance for the contingent. Several women boxers carry significant medal hopes into the competition. Men's boxing shows signs of progress, aiming for stronger showings. Success in Japan will gauge the sport's revival and Olympic prospects.

A sacked driver and two Income Tax officials attempted a fake raid. They demanded one crore rupees from a former employer's Mumbai office. The company owner foiled the extortion attempt by asking for authorization documents. Police have arrested ten individuals, including the two serving Income Tax officials. Investigations are ongoing to identify all involved parties and their roles.

A team of researchers discovered that discarded seashells have the ability to purify water by removing rare earth metals. Among various shell types, oyster shells stood out for their unique porous structure that effectively transforms dissolved metals into solid minerals. Given the aquaculture industrys yearly production of millions of tonnes of shell waste, this innovative process presents an opportunity to recycle waste while tackling water contamination issues.

Anthropic AI misuse report: Anthropic has revealed some of the most concerning ways users have attempted to misuse its AI model Claude, including requests related to missiles, anti-torpedo systems and biological weapons. The disclosures also reportedly include a case involving a live missile test, highlighting growing concerns over AI being used for potentially dangerous military and biological applications.

India will host Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin and other BRICS leaders in New Delhi on September 12-13 for the groupings 18th summit. The gathering brings together leaders representing economies that account for about 40% of global GDP, with several bilateral meetings with PM Narendra Modi also planned.

Western disturbances may explain seventy percent of winter air pollution variations. More frequent storms typically bring cleaner air to northern India. Ocean temperature patterns in autumn can predict winter storm frequency. This allows for advance warning of potentially severe pollution seasons. Such forecasts can help authorities prepare pollution control measures.

Make your Ganesh Chaturthi fasting meal more special with perfectly fluffy sabudana khichdi. From soaking the pearls correctly and roasting peanuts to getting the final tempering right, these six simple steps can help you avoid a sticky, mushy result.

Pakistan faces a difficult balancing act between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Recent fighting in Yemen is testing its dual role as defense partner and mediator. Islamabad seeks to avoid alienating Tehran while deepening Gulf ties. Pakistani officials are concerned about potential involvement in the conflict. The nation is advocating for restraint and diplomatic de-escalation on all fronts.

Mulch beds often struggle with encroaching grass and weeds. Spruce Weed & Grass Killer offers a ready-to-use spray solution. This kit includes a spray wand and a refillable weed killer bottle. Buyers praise its ease of use and quick results, though some note root issues. Careful application is advised to protect desired garden plants.

Innovative researchers have created a revolutionary cellulose acetate film that excels in passive cooling. By absorbing minimal sunlight while efficiently emitting infrared heat, surfaces coated with this film remain cooler than the ambient air without needing electricity. Practical uses for this technology abound, including applications in roofing, vehicles, and storage facilities. This advancement promises to alleviate pressure on electricity grids during sweltering conditions.

Villagers in Fatehpur's Hardauli village tied a telecom technician to a mobile tower for two hours over long-standing network problems, but it later came out that the technician himself had suggested being tied up, hoping it would push his company to act.

On September 8, authorities placed two men in judicial custody following their arrest for trying to enter Jio World Plaza armed with a firearm. Security staff uncovered a dubious identity card and the weapon during standard checks. One suspect is identified as a businessman, while the other is a retired Army personnel. The police are currently examining the motives and details of the incident.

Rahul Gandhi highlighted India's education system failures and sought feedback. He asked students, parents, and teachers to share their experiences and ideas. Gandhi is preparing for his 'Chhatron ki Goonj' initiative in Indore. This program aims to gather student voices for systemic change. Previous events have been held in several Indian cities.

Quote of the Day: Marcel Proust believed gratitude for people who make us happy is essential. These individuals act as gardeners, helping our souls blossom and flourish. Proust, a French author, explored happiness and gratitude in his writings. His famous quote highlights the impact of supportive companions on our inner lives. Recognizing these people helps us understand what truly brings us happiness.

In an extensive research initiative, scientists collected toilet paper swabs from a diverse group of thousands worldwide, revealing a significant increase in bacterial diversity compared to earlier studies. Notably, participants who incorporated numerous plant varieties into their diets experienced a remarkable boost in gut microbiome diversity. The study also found that antibiotic consumption correlated with more complex chemical profiles within samples.

In 2024-25, the state paid Rs 25,604 crore towards interest and Rs 29,126 crore as principal, while for 2025-26, the revised estimates show that Rs 27,095 crore was paid towards interest and Rs 34,025 crore as principal.

Abhijeet Dipke urged the Maharashtra government to dialogue with Maratha activist Manoj Jarange. He warned against any forceful intervention in the ongoing hunger strike protest. Dipke highlighted Jarange's demands for student facilities and Maratha reservation. He questioned the government's inaction and lack of dialogue with the activist. Dipke stressed that Maharashtra would not tolerate any harm to Manoj Jarange.

NEW DELHI: Nearly a third of India's coal-fired power plants are operating with critically low fuel stocks despite government efforts to boost supplies, as an extended spell of hot weather keeps electricity demand elevated, government data showed.India's peak power demand, a measure of the maximum electricity requirement, has been hovering near the record 270.70 gigawatts touched in May.Demand has consistently reached around 267 GW over the past few days, driven by increased cooling needs amid a

Real growth happens during the tough journey, not only when we reach the top. Albert Einstein reminds us that the value lies in the process itself. Today's society often fixates on rapid achievements and noticeable outcomes. This obsession can create stress and overlook personal growth. Embracing joy in everyday efforts fosters enduring happiness and genuine fulfillment.

Over the years, actor Ed Begley Jr. has meticulously turned his home into a model of energy efficiency. This incremental renovation approach has not only improved the property's environmental impact but has also heightened its resale value significantly. Research indicates that the inclusion of solar panels can greatly enhance a home's market price, while electric vehicle charging stations and energy-saving appliances further boost its appeal and provide significant savings.

A Reddit users bizarre workplace story about a maroon office chair nobody is allowed to sit in has sparked a mystery online. The rule was already in place when longtime employees joined, but even the office manager reportedly refused to explain why.

The Spanish saying 'El hbito no hace al monje' serves as a reminder not to evaluate people solely based on their appearance. Clothing and titles may mislead us, hiding a person's true essence. This proverb invites us to seek deeper truths beyond mere visuals, highlighting that a person's character is demonstrated through their actions and how they relate to others in society.

Acknowledging India's strength in weathering increased energy prices, the International Monetary Fund has praised the country's economic stability during a tumultuous global landscape. The real GDP growth for the April-June quarter notably exceeded initial expectations. While the IMF appreciates advancements in statistical frameworks, it calls for persistent improvements in data quality. Anticipated growth projections for India will be published in October.

Congress leader Salman Khurshid stated India's BRICS representation should include the entire country. He urged the Union government to consult the Opposition on BRICS matters. BRICS represents a significant share of global population, trade, and emerging economic strength. India's BRICS chairship this year carries significant international expectations and responsibility. The Opposition believes BRICS presidency is a national responsibility, not just government's.

Green roofs present a remarkable solution for enhancing temperature control in urban environments, effectively lowering surface temperatures. The vegetation on rooftops generates shade while aiding in air cooling through the process of evapotranspiration. This natural cooling not only alleviates indoor temperatures but also minimizes energy consumption. Across the country, federal agencies are increasingly adopting green roof systems, marking a strategic approach to mitigate summer cooling deman

Over the past five years, Decathlon India's wholesale venture has experienced explosive growth, increasing twentyfold and now representing ten percent of company revenue. This segment reaches over twenty thousand pin codes across India, providing services to defence organizations, government entities, and corporate partners, alongside collaborations with schools and nonprofits to promote sports and fitness.

Robert Downey Jr.'s unique guest house took nine years to complete. This unusual structure utilized a Binishell technique involving inflated concrete balloons. The construction process required custom-built elements due to the dome's curved walls. Engineers are studying these concrete domes for their material efficiency and strength. While expensive and slow, the home highlights innovative construction possibilities.

India's digital finance sector now prioritizes trust and resilience over access. Technology transforms finance, but trust remains the essential bedrock. Operational and cyber resilience are key priorities for the nation's financial infrastructure. Inclusion must extend beyond smartphones to reach all citizens. Technology distributes services, but responsibility always remains with regulated institutions.

BRICS finance ministers voiced serious concerns over unilateral trade measures. Higher tariffs and non-tariff barriers are distorting global trade and adding risks. The global economic outlook remains under pressure from geopolitical tensions. Trade fragmentation and protectionism also contribute to economic instability. Policy uncertainty and financial vulnerabilities add to the global economic challenges.

Parag Patil, a 47-year-old athlete from Badlapur, has won 22 international Masters athletics medals for India, including four gold, 10 silver and eight bronze. Despite his achievements, he works as a cab driver in Mumbai while continuing to train and fund his sporting career. His journey has involved loans, fundraising and significant family sacrifices, including his wife Sunita's mangalsutra being pledged as collateral. Patil's next goal is to win 100 international medals for India.

High inflation, weak currency: Sambit Patra cites old article on UPA-era BRICS summit

Through dedicated efforts, volunteers meticulously transcribed aged ship logs, unearthing essential historical weather information. This citizen science initiative remarkably enhanced Arctic sea ice records, enabling scientists to piece together more than a century's worth of ice history. The endeavor showcased the invaluable role of everyday individuals in pivotal scientific research, aiding experts in their quest to comprehend the evolving Arctic ecosystem.

The BJP has nominated former IAS officer Debashish Sharma for the Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election. Sharma recently took voluntary retirement and joined the BJP before receiving the ticket. The by-election is scheduled for October 6, with results announced on October 9.

Sun Tzu, the ancient strategist, profoundly emphasized the significance of preparation and intelligence for achieving strategic victories. His insights prioritize accomplishing goals with the least conflict and financial burden. In contemporary settings, this guidance proves invaluable for addressing business and personal hurdles alike. By fostering adaptability and situational awareness, Sun Tzu's enduring wisdom continues to steer decision-makers toward effective leadership on the global stage

Emma Bonino, a prominent Italian politician, has died at the age of seventy-eight. Her political career began with a fight for abortion rights, which she championed throughout her life. Bonino served in both Italian and European parliaments, advocating for social justice and gender equality. She also held significant roles as a foreign minister and European Commissioner in Brussels.

Actress Susan Sarandon's dream of an off-grid Vermont estate encountered significant construction problems and a lawsuit. Her company filed suit against the contractor, alleging misrepresentation and inflated invoices for the $2 million project. Engineers and staff identified forty-seven separate issues, including mold and buckled siding. While the lawsuit was dismissed, it serves as a cautionary tale for sustainable home construction.

A social media trend uses ChatGPT to create 1980s-style fitness photographs. Users transform modern workout images into retro gym and bodybuilding portraits. Prompts recreate vintage equipment, clothing, and analogue photography styles. The trend includes recreating Indian gym scenes and Bollywood fitness looks. This allows for nostalgic visual exploration of past fitness culture.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will attend a BRICS Summit dinner and meet Mukesh Ambani. He will also inaugurate the Adani Group's new hospital project near Kolkata. The state government is actively seeking major corporate investments for development. A defence project at Junput is also being pursued by the government. The completed Haldia Petrochemicals expansion is ready for inauguration soon.

The Modi-Putin relationship has developed an unusual diplomatic rhythm over the past decade: private dinners, boat rides, estate tours and even an extended conversation inside Putins limousine. As geopolitical pressures complicate India-Russia ties, this informal channel has helped the two leaders discuss disagreements away from the formal negotiating table.

Homes with green features are increasingly selling for more money across the United States. Actress Alicia Silverstone's Hollywood Hills home, upgraded over three decades, is now worth over two million dollars. Her property features solar panels and a graywater system which recycles water for her garden. Motherhood prompted Silverstone to replace toxic products with eco-friendly alternatives and antique furnishings.

BRICS nations can boost trade and investment by deepening financial markets. Experts suggest using local currencies more often for transactions. Linking payment platforms and exploring CBDCs will speed up cross-border payments. Reducing non-tariff barriers will also enhance intra-BRICS trade significantly. Greater trust and business partnerships are key for future economic cooperation.