The Economic Times

Pioneering psychologist John B. Watson asserted that human behavior is largely learned, not innate. His foundational work in behaviorism challenged the concept of instincts, proposing that habits and tendencies stem from training and environmental influences. This perspective empowers individuals, suggesting that perceived limitations can be overcome through new experiences and deliberate practice, a vital lesson for personal growth and change.

NBC journalist Savannah Guthrie made an emotional on-air plea for help after new details emerged regarding her mother Nancy Guthrie's January disappearance. A ransom note, demanding $6 million in cryptocurrency, was sent to media outlets. Investigators believe Nancy Guthrie may have died unintentionally shortly after being kidnapped. The family is offering a $1 million reward for information, urging anyone with even slight details to come forward anonymously.

Ancient philosopher Seneca offers a timeless lesson on happiness: true contentment isn't about acquiring everything you desire, but about appreciating what you already have. In today's world of constant comparison, his wisdom highlights that peace stems from managing expectations and finding joy in the present. This Stoic approach shifts focus from external acquisition to internal attitude, fostering resilience and lasting satisfaction.

Best proverb of the day: Life's rapid pace often leads to hasty decisions and spoken words with lasting consequences. A Japanese proverb illustrates that actions, once taken, cannot be fully undone. This wisdom encourages mindful reflection before speaking or acting, reminding us that while past mistakes are irreversible.

India faces a significant 42% rainfall deficit this monsoon, exacerbated by El Nino. The government is implementing contingency plans across 315 vulnerable districts, focusing on water conservation and crop diversification. While sowing is slightly ahead of last year, soybean planting lags. District-specific strategies are being deployed to mitigate potential impacts on farm output and ensure food security.

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at nine locations linked to Rajesh Exports in Bengaluru and Mumbai concerning alleged forex violations. This action follows a Sebi order alleging overstated revenues. Evidence of benami transactions and a significant gold inventory discrepancy, with stock reportedly 40% lower than recorded, have been uncovered. The ED is also scrutinizing trade receivables adjustments and overseas investments.

India and the US are pushing for an interim trade pact, with high-level talks led by Piyush Goyal and Jamieson Greer aiming for a deal before July 24. Both nations emphasize a win-win partnership, with India seeking lower tariffs and better market access. Discussions focused on advancing negotiations for a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement, building on a February joint statement.

Psychology says people who gossip about friends, family and office aren't always motivated by bad intentions. Psychology explains that gossip can serve different purposes, including building social bonds, sharing information, reducing uncertainty, and understanding group rules. However, frequent gossip can also create trust issues and conflict. Learning why people gossip helps individuals communicate better, build healthier relationships, and become more aware of how everyday conversations affec

Niti Aayog proposes a blueprint for free trade agreements to boost regulatory predictability in India's pharmaceutical sector. The think tank urges a shift towards high-value segments, emphasizing enhanced industry-academia collaboration for patent commercialization and startup incubation. While India is the 'pharmacy of the world,' it needs to move up the value chain by focusing on deeptech innovation to become a capital for pharma innovation.

Life Lesson of the Day by Walt Disney: Walt Disneys quote, I'd say it's been my biggest problem all my life... it's money. It takes a lot of money to make these dreams come true reflects the hidden struggle behind building great visions and creative success. The quote highlights that even the biggest dreamers face practical challenges like financial limitations, risk, and resource constraints. However, it also suggests that true achievement comes from persistenceturning imagination into reality

India's private sector experienced a slowdown in June, reaching a three-month low as rising costs and softening demand impacted business. The composite PMI dipped to 57.4. While manufacturing output growth eased, both manufacturing and services PMIs saw declines. Despite this, businesses remain hopeful for future output, though overall confidence has weakened, with manufacturers showing the lowest sentiment in nearly four years.

Best Quote of the Day by B.F. Skinner: B.F. Skinners quote, When you run into something interesting, drop everything else and study it, explores the importance of curiosity, focused learning, and intellectual growth. The quote suggests that genuine interest is often the starting point of discovery, knowledge, and innovation. Rather than ignoring curiosity or treating it as a distraction, Skinner encourages people to pursue subjects that capture their attention because they can lead to deeper und

Bangladesh Prime Minister's adviser, Zahed Ur Rahman, was allowed into India after immigration officials verified his visit's purpose. Despite being cleared, he opted to return to Dhaka voluntarily. This follows Bangladesh lodging a protest after Rahman was initially stopped at Delhi airport due to his name appearing on a security blacklist. The MEA confirmed he was permitted entry but chose his own departure.

Warren Buffett-backed Lubrizol Corporation is making its largest India investment in six decades, a $150 million facility in Gujarat, to tap into the booming CPVC resin market. This move, in partnership with Grasim Industries, aims to meet surging demand driven by urbanization and infrastructure growth. Lubrizol anticipates doubling its Indian revenues within five years, highlighting the region's significant economic potential and its commitment to local production.

Infosys is aggressively pursuing the AI-first services market, projecting a $300-400 billion opportunity by 2030. Chairman Nandan Nilekani emphasized AI will amplify, not replace, IT services, with 90% of top clients already engaged in AI initiatives. CEO Salil Parekh confirmed 5.5% of FY26 revenue, around $1 billion, came from AI services, experiencing rapid growth. Management highlighted AI's positive impact on margins and future growth potential.

India is set to export a train rake of up to 20 coaches to Bangladesh next month, marking a significant resumption of trade. This shipment, manufactured at the Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala, is part of a larger contract for 200 broad-gauge passenger coaches funded by the European Investment Bank. Despite a political delay, the project is now back on track, with RITES overseeing the supply, commissioning, and warranty.

India's economy is projected to grow around 7% this fiscal year, with most businesses finding growth avenues despite global cost pressures. The new CII president, R Mukundan, advocates for a GST Council-like body to drive crucial reforms across sectors like agriculture and land. He also emphasized strategic technology infusion from China, particularly in battery storage, and expanding production-linked incentives for local manufacturing.

In today's world, many things are easily found and lack uniqueness, a concept captured by the idiom 'a dime a dozen.' This phrase, originating from 19th-century America, highlights that abundance often diminishes value. The article emphasizes that true worth lies not in commonality but in qualities like character, dedication, and authenticity, urging individuals to cultivate what makes them exceptional rather than blending in.

Quote of the day by Abraham Maslow: Abraham Maslow emphasized that genuine personal transformation stems from within, not external actions. He believed that understanding one's self, thoughts, beliefs, and self-perception is crucial for lasting change.

An Indian influencer, Khushi Dubey, has gone viral after a heated confrontation with a Bangladeshi waiter at an Italian restaurant. The dispute, initially over a bill, escalated when the waiter allegedly made derogatory remarks about India. The incident, captured on video, saw the group demanding an apology from the waiter in front of Italian police, sparking a divided online debate about patriotism and cultural respect.

Gujarat has launched 28 'Rannshala' buses, transforming them into mobile classrooms for children of salt pan workers in the Little Rann of Kutch. These specially equipped buses, featuring smart TVs, solar power, and learning aids, will reach Agariya families who migrate seasonally. This initiative aims to provide education to children aged 6 to 14, bridging the gap for these nomadic communities.

Quote of the Day by Martin Seligman: When we want to move from plus three to plus eight in our lives, the exercise of will is more important than rearranging external props. The founder of positive psychology shares a powerful lesson on resilience, personal growth, and the choices that shape a meaningful life. His wisdom reveals why true transformation begins from within.

Quote of the Day by American psychologist Carl Rogers: Carl Rogers quote, I regret it when I suppress my feelings too long and they burst forth in ways that are distorted or attacking or hurtful, explores the importance of emotional awareness, self-expression, and psychological balance. The quote suggests that when feelings are repeatedly ignored or held back, they do not disappear but instead build up and eventually come out in ways that may be uncontrolled or damaging.

Voicemails for Isabelle: A new Netflix film, Voicemails for Isabelle, is captivating audiences with its profound emotional depth, moving beyond typical rom-com tropes. The movie explores love, loss, and unspoken feelings through intimate voicemails, resonating deeply with viewers who describe it as an unexpected emotional journey. Director Leah's personal vision emphasizes subtlety, allowing silence and recorded messages to convey powerful sentiments, making it a standout in today's streaming co

Ladakh observed a complete shutdown Tuesday as residents protested alleged broken promises by the Union home ministry. Hundreds gathered in Leh, demanding the inclusion of key agreements from a May 22 meeting. Leaders from Apex Body Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance accused the central government of delaying action on crucial local issues, leading to widespread business closures in Leh and Kargil.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that the Border Security Force has expelled approximately 10,000 Bangladeshi illegal immigrants, with 1,800 still in holding centers. He assured genuine citizens of their safety and vowed to continue action against those residing unlawfully. Border fencing is set to be completed within six months, prioritizing national security. Adhikari criticized the previous government's alleged appeasement politics for hindering land handover for border s

New rules from the Home Ministry now define what qualifies as religious activity for foreign-funded organizations in India. The updated framework permits activities like temple upkeep, scripture preservation, and pilgrim amenities, but explicitly prohibits proselytization. Compliance is also tightened, with a broader definition of 'key functionary' and stricter declaration requirements for operational scope.

Conflicting reports emerged Tuesday regarding Iran's nuclear program and asset unfreezing. President Trump claimed Iran agreed to extensive inspections and that frozen assets would buy US humanitarian goods. However, Iran denied any nuclear talks or IAEA inspector agreements, asserting sole control over its assets. Meanwhile, progress was reported in mediated talks, with working groups planned for sanctions and nuclear issues.

Congress MP Mukul Wasnik has taken over as the chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports. This appointment follows the retirement of Digvijaya Singh, whose Rajya Sabha term concluded on June 21. Wasnik's new role commenced on June 22, as confirmed by a Rajya Sabha secretariat notification, marking a significant transition in the committee's leadership.

China's LineShine supercomputer has topped the global TOP500 list, utilizing domestically produced chips. However, experts suggest this achievement highlights China's drive for self-sufficiency rather than a definitive lead in AI computing. While LineShine secured the top spot, it ranked lower on AI-specific benchmarks, indicating the evolving landscape of high-performance computing beyond traditional scientific simulations.

Quote of the Day: Cristiano Ronaldo's powerful message on self-belief is resonating widely, especially mid-week when motivation often wanes. The football icon's unwavering stance, I don't have to worry what others think. I talk when I want to. Everybody knows who I am, what I believe in, emphasizes the importance of internal validation over external opinions.

Renowned psychologist Carol Dweck's growth mindset theory emphasizes that abilities aren't fixed. Her quote, Test scores tell you where a student is, but they dont tell you where a student could end up, highlights that current achievements don't define future potential. Dweck's work suggests that embracing challenges and learning from mistakes fosters continuous improvement, unlocking human potential beyond mere performance metrics.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held discussions with Russia's Secretary of the Security Council, Sergei Shoigu, in New Delhi. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the BRICS NSAs gathering, focused on strengthening cooperation within the BRICS framework and reviewing advancements in bilateral ties. Both nations explored proposals and reaffirmed their commitment to the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.

A viral Reddit post detailing US visa interview experiences at the Delhi Consulate reveals that weak or unconvincing answers, not just documentation, can lead to rejections. Examples include a sports fan who hadn't watched any matches and a traveler citing a city's fame as their sole reason. The author's own successful interview, however, highlighted clarity of purpose, confidence, and a well-documented travel history as key factors.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio firmly stated that Washington will not permit any tolls on the Strait of Hormuz, an international waterway. This comes as Iran and Oman announced they would study administration and costs for the route, asserting sovereignty. Meanwhile, the UN is set to evacuate over 11,000 sailors stranded by the conflict. Diplomacy is active with Iran's president visiting Pakistan and nuclear inspection claims being disputed.

Quote of the Day by Elizabeth Loftus: Zealous conviction is a dangerous substitute for an open mind. This powerful insight from the renowned psychologist explores how memory, beliefs, and certainty shape human decisions. Elizabeth Loftus wisdom reminds us that questioning our thoughts can unlock better judgment, lifelong learning, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.

US President Donald Trump has contradicted Iran's claims regarding inspections of its nuclear sites. He stated that International Atomic Energy Agency officials will indeed visit the country's damaged nuclear facilities at the appropriate time. This assertion comes amidst ongoing tensions and scrutiny over Iran's nuclear program, suggesting continued international oversight.

Quote of the Day by William James: William James quote, The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another, explores the importance of mindset, emotional resilience, and mental awareness. The quote suggests that while people cannot always control the challenges and pressures they face, they can influence how they respond to them through their thoughts. By choosing constructive and positive perspectives over fear, worry, or negativity, individuals can better mana