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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

Tamil Nadu MLAs to get car, assistant for constituency work; Rs 75,000 car allowance

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced that all assembly members will be provided a car and an assistant to support constituency work. MLAs will receive 75,000 a month towards car maintenance, fuel and drivers salary, while assistants will get 25,000. Vijay also announced major health-sector measures.

20 Aug 2026 1:03 am
In 1945, Hiroshimas atomic blast vaporized metal, glass, soil and water; 81 years later, scientists studying the cooled material found strange glass spheres that may preserve a never-before-seen alloy

After decades of 1945 Hiroshima atomic bombing, scientists studying tiny glass particles found around Hiroshima Bay have identified evidence of an unusual multicomponent alloy. Known as hiroshimaite, the particles formed after the explosions extreme heat vaporized surrounding materials before they rapidly cooled and condensed. Researchers examined 34 particles using advanced microscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, discovering an alloy containing iron, chromium, nickel, manganese, molybd

20 Aug 2026 1:03 am
Ladakh groups submit non-negotiable demands for elected assembly, home affairs under govt

Representatives of Ladakh submitted a set of non-negotiable demands to the Ministry of Home Affairs, including an elected legislative assembly headed by a chief minister and control over home affairs. The Kargil Democratic Alliance and Apex Body Leh also sought constitutional safeguards, withdrawal of cases linked to the September 24 incident and compensation.

20 Aug 2026 12:59 am
Consider relaxing firecracker noise limit curbs before Diwali: SC to CPCB

The Supreme Court asked the CPCB to explore partial relaxation of firecracker rules. This request came during a hearing on Delhi's pollution menace. The court urged the Centre to consider some exceptions for the upcoming Diwali season. Previously, the court had banned firecrackers due to rising air pollution levels. Last year, green firecrackers were permitted for a limited period.

20 Aug 2026 12:56 am
India expresses concern over worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza

India will construct a new hospital in the West Bank soon. Work on this project is expected to be completed within two years. A vocational training center will also begin operations very shortly. India expressed deep concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Discussions were held to strengthen the India-Palestine development partnership.

20 Aug 2026 12:53 am
Kashmir an important part of India, says Sergio Gor; US to reevaluate advisories on travel to J&K

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, on his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir, met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar and said the US would recommend downgrading its travel advisory for the region. Gor cited improved security and said the move could encourage more Americans to visit Kashmir.

20 Aug 2026 12:53 am
Apple iPhone 17 Pro now at Rs 63,460 on Flipkart: Check exchange and bank offers and how to get the deal

The iPhone 17 Pro is currently listed on Flipkart for Rs 1,32,900. However, many buyers can take advantage of bank promotions, bringing the final price down to Rs 63,460. This impressive smartphone showcases an A19 Pro chipset and a stunning 6.3-inch OLED display. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate its triple 48MP rear camera setup and an 18MP front-facing camera for selfies.

20 Aug 2026 12:52 am
Quote of the Day by Marie Curie: Life is not easy for any of us... We must believe that we are... an enduring life lesson on perseverance, self-confidence, personal purpose, and why true human fulfillment requires honoring individual potential over submitting to inevitable adversity, by the Nobel Prize-winning scientist

Quote of the Day by Marie Curie: Life is not easy for any of us... confronts the reality that hardship is a universal default, not a personal defect. Rather than treating success as the absence of struggle, the pioneering physicist exposes the vital distinction between passive optimism and deliberate conviction. She frames self-confidence not as arrogance, but as a duty to identify and cultivate one's innate calling regardless of cost. Curie's message remains profoundly relevant, reminding us th

20 Aug 2026 12:42 am
ET World Leaders Forum: It's time for Indian cos to scale across global markets with Dubai as the base

Indian companies have long played a major role in Dubais economy, with nearly 82,000 active Indian businesses registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce by end-2025. Rising bilateral trade and the India-UAE CEPA are deepening ties, while Dubais infrastructure, capital, talent and connectivity offer Indian firms a platform for global expansion.

20 Aug 2026 12:39 am
Bird evolution didnt happen steadily: AI reveals 45 million years of climate-driven changes in skeletons

Bird skeletons reveal evolutionary history shaped by climate shifts and environmental upheaval. Artificial intelligence analyzed thousands of museum specimens for anatomical measurements. Researchers found rapid anatomical changes occurred during ancient cooling periods. Evolutionary rates also slowed during other significant geological and environmental shifts. This study highlights how environmental variability influences bird body form evolution.

20 Aug 2026 12:37 am
Government courts Gen Z, Alpha with social media, campus outreach

The government is ramping up efforts to improve ministers' digital engagement and foster direct connections with students. Ministers have received detailed reports on their social media performance, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Union ministers leading the rankings. As part of this initiative, these ministers will visit various government schools and universities, aiming to engage with the youth and address their pressing issues.

20 Aug 2026 12:35 am
China's youth jobless rate rises to 17.9% amid record influx of graduates, economic slowdown

China's youth unemployment reached 17.9 percent in July, a significant increase. A record 12.7 million graduates entered a struggling job market this year. Economic slowdown and automation are contributing factors to this job crunch. Many graduates are pursuing further studies or public sector jobs for security. The government is implementing measures to support youth employment opportunities.

20 Aug 2026 12:34 am
Scientists discover how a one-atom quantum engine can turn waste light into useful energy

Researchers are developing new ways to understand energy in tiny quantum machines. They argue that escaping light may still perform useful work elsewhere. This work is part of a broader effort in quantum thermodynamics. Understanding energy flow is increasingly important as devices shrink. This could prevent useful energy from being automatically counted as loss.

20 Aug 2026 12:29 am
CCI relaxes commitment norms, extends filing window to 60 days

The Commission has eased the timeline for preliminary considerations of applications by it to 15 working days from the current seven. Also, the deadline to wrap up the entire commitment proceeding has been raised to 180 working days, with a provision for extension in complex cases, from the current 130 working days. The move comes at a time when the regulator is considering two key commitment applications by IndiGo parent InterGlobe Aviation, and Google. The CCI has sought stakeholder comments o

20 Aug 2026 12:29 am
Consultants of faulty detailed project reports culprits: Nitin Gadkari

Such poor quality DPR that today on road, 5 lakh accidents occur, and 1.8 lakh deaths, and all have problems of defective DPR, Gadkari said. The minister cautioned contractors against compromising construction quality after winning an infrastructure project. There will be a performance audit in addition to a financial audit, and contractors found wanting will be punished and black-listed, he said. Gadkari said poor-quality DPRs and construction compromises result in economic losses and road acci

20 Aug 2026 12:24 am
In 2012, PacifiCorp launched a trap-and-haul program to move adult salmon upstream past Merwin Dam. 14 years later, researchers found 2 stages in the system but 1 decisive bottleneck: young salmon failing to find the artificial current downstream

A trap-and-haul program on Washingtons Lewis River helps adult Chinook salmon bypass Merwin Dam by transporting them in trucks to upstream spawning habitat. But researchers tracking the salmon life cycle have identified a major weakness on the return journey. Juvenile salmon, or smolts, must travel downstream toward the Pacific Ocean, yet many struggle to locate the artificial current leading to a floating collection system near Swift Dam. Once captured, they can be transported safely downstream

20 Aug 2026 12:23 am
Niti Aayog proposes skill (re)set with focus on outcome-linked financing, PPPs

Niti Aayog proposes core reforms to transform India's skilling architecture. The roadmap seeks to create a coherent system supporting cumulative progression. Skilling integration in schools and public-private partnerships are key recommendations. Financing must shift towards outcome-based approaches for greater access. This initiative aims to strengthen the skilling ecosystem for economic participation.

20 Aug 2026 12:20 am
National Highway builders bat for BOT annuity model to avoid zero-bid scenario

The National Highways Builders Federation said the current BOT (toll) model exposes private developers to an unacceptably high level of risk, citing recent tenders that received no bids. BOT projects fundamentally depend on a bankable and balanced risk-sharing structure. Without resolving the core concerns around unfair default classifications for traffic drops, dispute resolution and real-cost delay compensations, there is a strong apprehension that upcoming tenders will continue to face zero-b

20 Aug 2026 12:17 am
Psychology says people who don't trust online doctor consultations aren't necessarily resistant to technology: What this behavior reveals?

Psychology says people who don't trust online doctor consultations aren't necessarily refusing technology. Their hesitation can come from the need for physical presence, direct examination, visible signs of competence and a sense of safety. Online consultations remove some of these cues. This can create doubt about accountability, diagnosis, empathy and control. Psychology explains this behaviour through security, trust transfer, cue consistency and tangibility bias.

20 Aug 2026 12:14 am
Awarapan 2 actor Emraan Hashmis Rs 16 crore Mumbai home: A look at his luxurious 4-BHK apartment with a library, fitness area and stunning city views

Emraan Hashmi, the acclaimed actor, boasts an impressive net worth of Rs 105 crore, highlighting his flourishing career in the film industry. His Mumbai residence, worth Rs 16 crore, exemplifies a minimalist style. The apartment features an expansive fitness area, a grand library, and a sprawling balcony that provides stunning views of the vibrant city below, merging contemporary design with personal elements for enhanced comfort.

20 Aug 2026 12:13 am
In 1789, George Washington wore his famous golden suit to his inauguration ball. 237 years later, scientists found 5 natural dyes showing the coat was originally a deep plum-purple, not gold

George Washington's famous inauguration overcoat was actually a rich plum color. Scientific analysis of the garment revealed its true vibrant hue. The original golden suit was made using natural dyes from colonial sources. These dyes, including shellac and logwood, created a deep purple shade. Sunlight exposure over time likely caused the fabric to fade to a golden appearance.

20 Aug 2026 12:09 am
I-T unearths Rs 1.29 lakh cr foreign remittances

The tax probe has found that a substantial portion of the money moved to a handful of overseas destinations. Singapore, the UAE, Hong Kong, Mauritius and China together accounted for 72.3% of the total remittances. Singapore emerged as the largest destination, receiving Rs 41,885 crore while Rs 18,331 crore was remitted to the UAE and Rs 18,064 crore to Hong Kong.

20 Aug 2026 12:08 am
Augusts First Quarter Moon is set to make these 4 zodiac signs uncomfortable but for a good reason

The August First Quarter Moonisn't necessarily a sign of bad news. Its challenging energy can serve a useful purpose by making it harder to ignore what needs attention. Once these Zodiac Signsface the situation honestly, they may be better equipped to make decisions based on reality rather than wishful thinking.

20 Aug 2026 12:02 am
Manav Sutra: Suthars 10-for powers India past Sri Lanka and offers a glimpse of his craft

Manav Suthar secured ten wickets in the final Test match. His consistent bowling troubled Sri Lankan batsmen throughout the game. Suthar's skill and variations proved effective on the Galle pitch. KL Rahul and Gary Kirsten praised his Test match capabilities. India has found a promising spin bowling prospect for the future.

20 Aug 2026 12:02 am
CBI registers case against BluSmart's founders Anmol Singh Jaggi and Puneet Singh Jaggi

The CBI has filed a case against BluSmart founders. This action follows allegations of causing a significant financial loss to IREDA. Funds were reportedly misappropriated and diverted from their intended purposes. The investigation involves forged documents submitted to credit rating agencies. This has led to a substantial financial impact on the renewable energy agency.

20 Aug 2026 12:01 am
Siddaramaiahs absences fuel speculation over next move

The absence of Congress leader Siddaramaiah from a significant party meeting has stirred up political chatter. Having declared he wont run in the 2028 assembly elections, the focus now shifts to his son Yathindra, who is likely to carry on his father's political journey. With Shivakumar regularly seeking Siddaramaiahs advice and appointing Yathindra to the cabinet, these developments lead many to doubt Siddaramaiahs commitment to an active role in politics.

19 Aug 2026 11:51 pm
Book recommendations by Shah Rukh Khan: Want to think like the Baadshah of Bollywood? Here are 5 books recommended by SRK on leadership, ambition, friendship and courage

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has shared his love for diverse books with fans. His reading journey includes fantasy, science fiction, and psychological fiction novels. He utilized books like 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time' for character preparation. Biographies and thrillers also feature prominently on his extensive reading list. These selections offer insight into the actor's interests beyond cinema.

19 Aug 2026 11:51 pm
Nirmala Sitharaman, Piyush Goyal visit Singapore to boost ties

India and Singapore entered into a free trade agreement in 2005 to strengthen bilateral commerce. Singapore was the largest source of FDI into India in FY26, with inflows of $19.8 billion. Cumulative FDI inflows from Singapore were $194.68 billion during April 2000-March 2026, accounting for 24.72% of India's total FDI inflows.

19 Aug 2026 11:51 pm
Congress Working Committee resolves to stick to two-stanza Vande Mataram recital at party events

The Congress Working Committee has decided to limit the recitation of Vande Mataram to just two stanzas. In an effort to engage more students, the party will expand its outreach program to over 700 cities. Chief ministers are urged to submit blueprints for restructuring the education system within a month. Furthermore, a nationwide protest is set to address the alleged theft of donations meant for the Ayodhya temple.

19 Aug 2026 11:46 pm
UP offers skills, scale & infra, says Yogi Adityanath urging Japan to make it 'second biz home'

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended a warm invitation to Japanese firms, urging them to consider Uttar Pradesh as their second base for industrial operations. Highlighting the extensive investment prospects across sectors like advanced technology and renewable energy, this gathering seeks to solidify an economic partnership that links India and Japan, transforming shared visions into tangible growth.

19 Aug 2026 11:41 pm
Assam CM inaugurates newly constructed Integrated DC Office Building of Kamrup Metropolitan District

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated a new Integrated District Commissioners Office. This modern facility in Kamrup Metropolitan District cost eighty-one point two crore rupees. The building incorporates a solar power system to promote green energy initiatives. This inauguration aligns with the governments decentralization efforts and citizen-centric administration. The Chief Minister also presented an old land record from Kamakhya Temple.

19 Aug 2026 11:37 pm
It's all about breakthroughs for these 4 zodiac signs on August 20 as the Moon move from Libra

One sign may gain greater influence, another may experience emotional fulfillment, while another could receive professional recognition or meaningful support. The common thread is action. The Sagittarius Moon is often associated with optimism, honesty and expansion. Instead of waiting for luck to take the first step, these Zodiac Signs may find greater opportunities by turning their intentions into action.

19 Aug 2026 11:35 pm
Florida primary shocker: Moody advances, Nixon stuns Dems; Mills falls; Donalds, Rep. Fine score big

Florida primary shocker: Moody advances, Nixon stuns Dems; Mills falls; Donalds, Rep. Fine score big

19 Aug 2026 11:35 pm
J&K: US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor enjoys a Shikara Ride at Dal Lake in Srinagar

J&K: US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor enjoys a Shikara Ride at Dal Lake in Srinagar

19 Aug 2026 11:34 pm
'We cant just walk away': Perry presses Trump's amb. Waltz on Chinas growing influence at the U.N.

'We cant just walk away': Perry presses Trump's amb. Waltz on Chinas growing influence at the U.N.

19 Aug 2026 11:32 pm
4 zodiac signs could unlock new luck and abundance on August 20, 2026, as the Moon enters Sagittarius, bringing confidence, recognition, support and new opportunities

Mark your calendars for August 20, 2026, as Sagittarius, Leo, Pisces, and Gemini could unlock fresh luck and prosperity. It's a day for these signs to be bold and express their hopes freely. The lunar transition heralds chances for valuable connections, acknowledgement, and encouragement, urging individuals to take decisive action in pursuit of their dreams.

19 Aug 2026 11:29 pm
In 1940, scientists had no fermentation tanks, so penicillin was grown in hundreds of ceramic vessels modeled on hospital bedpans; the improvised system helped turn Flemings discovery into a mass-produced medicine

In 1940, scientists working to develop penicillin faced a major obstacle: they had discovered a potentially lifesaving medicine but lacked the industrial equipment needed to produce it in large quantities. Instead of modern fermentation tanks, the Oxford team relied on improvised containers, including hospital bedpans and specially designed ceramic vessels. Norman Heatley helped develop stackable vessels that allowed penicillin-producing mould to grow across shallow surfaces, while technical ass

19 Aug 2026 11:26 pm
Putting an old sock on your mop: How this simple DIY cleaning trick helps pick up hair, dust and lint from floors

Transforming old socks into floor cleaning tools is a savvy way to enhance your cleaning routine. By slipping a sock onto a mop, you can effortlessly gather dust and pet hair that the broom often leaves behind. The sock's fabric captures fine particles, making it an efficient cleaning solution. Once you're done, simply toss the sock in the wash for hassle-free reuse.

19 Aug 2026 11:17 pm
Massachusetts 2022 drought pushed seawater into a coastal marsh, triggering an 83% crash in methane emissions; the wetland still hadnt recovered a year later

In 2022, Massachusetts experienced a significant drought that led to seawater intrusion in a coastal marsh. This unusual phenomenon resulted in a dramatic reduction of methane emissions by almost eighty-three percent. Even after the return of normal rain, the marsh did not revert to its former state due to prolonged salt exposure, which disrupted microbial communities and curtailed methane production.

19 Aug 2026 11:17 pm
Quote of the Day by Walt Disney: All the adversity Ive had in my life... a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you Inspiring life lessons from a motivational quote on resilience, failure, personal growth and turning setbacks into strength by the legendary animator and entertainment pioneer

Quote of the Day by Walt Disney: All the adversity Ive had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me. While a sudden crisis feels like total ruin in the moment, unexpected failure strips away complacency and forces radical reinvention. True resilience is not merely surviving difficulty, but allowing severe setbacks to forge far better solutions than original plans ever allowed. Disney understood that immediate defeat often conceals long-term momentum. Today, this insight re

19 Aug 2026 11:14 pm
5 zodiac signs will see everything falling into place this August 2026 after continuous ups and downs

Astrology offers symbolic interpretations rather than scientifically proven predictions, but the month's themes point toward confidence, boundaries, fresh starts and closure.

19 Aug 2026 11:05 pm
Death toll in gold mine collapse in Central African Republic rises to more than 100

A gold mine collapse in western Central African Republic has claimed over one hundred lives. The low-tech artisanal mine collapsed Tuesday morning in the village of Zamboye. More than one hundred dead bodies have been recovered so far by relief efforts. Several survivors are critically injured, and many people remain missing. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.

19 Aug 2026 11:05 pm
Psychology says people who learn from others' mistakes aren't afraid of failure: What does this behavior shows?

Psychology says people who learn from others' mistakes aren't afraid to learn from failure. This behavior can show how people observe outcomes, understand risks and change their decisions without experiencing the same problem themselves. Psychology connects this process with observational learning, social learning and learning through consequences. It can help people make decisions, avoid repeated errors and develop ways to respond to difficult situations.

19 Aug 2026 10:58 pm
FIH World Cup: Harmanpreet, Abhishek's brace help India to continue its dominance over Pakistan

India secured a 5-3 victory over Pakistan in a high-voltage FIH World Cup match. Harmanpreet Singh and Abhishek scored two goals each for the winning side. This win extended India's decade-long unbeaten streak against their arch-rivals. The result also ended Pakistan's campaign in the ongoing tournament. India and England advanced to the second round from Pool D.

19 Aug 2026 10:57 pm