The Economic Times

Commuters are walking to work as metro stations remain closed due to a protest. Roads around Jantar Mantar are barricaded, impacting daily travel for many. Ride-hailing services are reluctant to enter the cordoned-off areas. Internet services have also been suspended, adding to the daily difficulties. Public transport closures are a concern for citizen transport initiatives.

Moon moving farther from Earth: The Moon is slowly moving away from Earth at a rate of 3.83 centimetres per year, a change confirmed through decades of laser measurements. While insignificant over human timescales, scientists say the gradual recession could eventually lengthen Earth's days, weaken ocean tides and bring an end to total solar eclipses, with these effects unfolding over hundreds of millions of years.

African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Eat when the food is ready; speak when the time is right. The saying emphasizes the importance of patience, good timing, and thoughtful communication. It teaches that every action has its proper moment, and rushing to speak or act can lead to unnecessary mistakes or misunderstandings. By waiting for the right time, people can make wiser decisions, express themselves more effectively, and achieve better outcomes. The proverb encourages self-con

Empathy is influenced by biology, personality, upbringing, stress, emotional regulation, and everyday experiences. Recognizing this complexity allows us to better understand ourselves and those around us without rushing to simplistic conclusions.

International rights groups express serious concern over Nepal's judiciary independence. They warn against government interference with Supreme Court appointments and composition. Recent actions reportedly threaten judicial independence and impartiality. These groups urge respect for judicial integrity and transparent appointments. Reforms should strengthen, not weaken, the rule of law in Nepal.

Union Health Minister J P Nadda led government negotiations concerning the NEET paper leak protest. He engaged in multiple talks with activist Sonam Wangchuk, who ended his hunger strike. The government assured protesters that peaceful demonstrators would not face legal action. This assurance followed discussions on the protesters' broader demands, including Pradhan's resignation. Talks continue on other issues raised by the CJP representatives.

To maintain order, Delhi Police detained more than 200 individuals around Jantar Mantar amid concerns of unrest stemming from neighboring states. Heightened security measures followed intelligence alerts, with several of those detained possessing previous criminal records. Some were also arrested for carrying weapons. Prohibitory orders were enforced, limiting access to the protest site as police forces were deployed in substantial numbers around the area.

Thirteen people died after massive boulders fell onto a moving taxi in Himachal Pradesh. Two occupants of the SUV managed to escape the sudden rockfall. The vehicle was completely crushed and caught fire following the impact. Relief and rescue operations are currently underway at the accident site. The passengers had been stranded previously due to road closures.

Chinese coast guard ships used water cannons on Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal. This incident occurred for the second consecutive day in the disputed waters. Top diplomats met in Manila for annual foreign minister meetings while these skirmishes unfolded. ASEAN ministers expressed concerns over serious incidents and actions risking safety in the area. Negotiations for a code of conduct to prevent armed confrontation continue this year.

The US Section 301 tariff has escalated cost challenges for Indian exporters, but it simultaneously provides a unique advantage. Competing nations are subjected to higher tariffs, allowing Indian goods to be more attractive. This favorable situation highlights the US's recognition of India's efforts against forced labor. By leveraging government assistance and adopting proactive measures, Indian exporters can capitalize on trade shifts and continue their growth trajectory.

Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol detailed swift government actions following the NEET-UG paper leak. Accused individuals were arrested, and a CBI probe was initiated for thorough investigation. A re-examination was conducted within thirty-seven days, ensuring no admission delays. The government prioritized student futures while ensuring strict action against culprits. Discussions are ongoing with protesting students and opposition parties regarding examination reforms.

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has resigned from his position two years early. He cited various health complications as the primary reason for his unexpected departure. His resignation letter was submitted to the parliamentary Speaker for official processing. Shahabuddin, a Liberation War veteran, had begun his five-year term in April 2023. His resignation occurs after significant political upheaval and the toppling of the previous government.

Rajya Sabha experienced disruptions during the Monsoon Session's first week. Opposition members protested the NEET paper leak issue and demanded the Education Minister's resignation. The House introduced a bill to criminalize insulting the national song Vande Mataram. Proceedings were repeatedly adjourned due to continued uproar and sloganeering. The Upper House failed to conduct significant business throughout the week.

India and Israel have concluded the second round of FTA negotiations, covering key areas such as goods and services trade, customs, intellectual property and technical standards. Both sides held constructive discussions and reaffirmed their commitment to finalising a balanced agreement to deepen economic ties.

The Supreme Court will hear a plea regarding an alternative namaz site. Muslim petitioners argue the allocated site is too far from Bhojshala. The Madhya Pradesh government stated the site is 900 metres away. The court previously directed the state to provide an adjacent prayer space. This interim plea will be heard on July 29.

June to September is monsoon season back home. But fly a few hours east and the weather is a completely different story. Here are seven eastern countries that are either dry, lush and travel-ready, or genuinely stunning during the exact months India gets drenched.

Rahul Gandhi called for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's removal and PM Modi's apology. He presented a student allegedly injured by pellet guns during a protest. The student's eye was damaged, impacting his vision and future police career. Delhi Police denied using pellet guns against protesters on that day. The incident raises concerns about the use of force during student demonstrations.

The Indian government is reviewing recent US tariff developments and remains engaged with Washington on negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement. Commerce officials said consultations are ongoing with farmers, exporters, industries and other stakeholders to safeguard Indias trade interests while advancing the goal of expanding bilateral trade.

Production Linked Incentive schemes, which aim to boost manufacturing and attract significant investments, have disbursed Rs 35,354 crore to beneficiaries, the Rajya Sabha was informed. Approved applications across fourteen sectors have shown substantial production and export figures. Over fourteen lakh jobs have been generated through these manufacturing initiatives.

India imported significant urea and DAP quantities during April-June this fiscal. Total fertiliser production reached 115.72 lakh tonnes in the first quarter. The government actively diversifies import sources to mitigate supply chain risks. Long-term agreements are finalised with Saudi Arabian and Russian companies for DAP. Indian companies are sourcing water-soluble fertilisers from alternative global suppliers.

White vinegar has long been a go-to remedy for garden ants, but more gardeners are quietly switching to something far more effective: diatomaceous earth, a fine natural powder made from fossilised algae. Here is why it works so well.

Psychology reminds us that a single behavior never tells the whole story about a person. Someone who rarely laughs wholeheartedly isn't automatically unhappy, emotionally distant, or concealing sadness. Their way of expressing emotions may be shaped by their personality, upbringing, current stress levels, attachment experiences, or simply their natural communication style.

Persian Gulf nations are preparing to raise more debt to fund ports, pipelines and transport links that reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz as the Iran war continues. Bond issuance has already reached a record $112 billion this year, with investors expecting further supply despite strong demand for Gulf sovereign debt.

In a decisive move, India's cybercrime agency has instructed GitHub to eliminate the Bitchat app. This innovative Bluetooth messaging service permits offline communication, raising alarms for government officials about possible misuse by anti-national factions and terrorist organizations. The apps ability to evade monitoring poses a significant threat, prompting references to violations of the IT Act and additional legislation.

Judoka Tulika Maan faces provisional suspension from the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. She committed three whereabouts failures within the last twelve months. Another judoka, Arun Kumar, was also withdrawn after a failed dope test. The Indian judo team has not yet departed for the upcoming competition. Their competition schedule is set to commence on July thirty-first.

The Enforcement Directorate attached assets worth Rs 1,906 crore belonging to Gameskraft. This action was taken due to allegations of operating an addictive online gaming environment. The company allegedly encouraged repeated wagering and generated significant proceeds of crime. These funds were then layered and integrated through dividends and share buy-backs. The total attachment in this case now stands at Rs 2,401 crore.

Billionaire Lakshmi Mittal's acquisition of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals has triggered a London lawsuit after minority shareholders alleged they are being forced to surrender shares worth about $50 million for just 1. The shareholders deny misconduct allegations by Emerging Media Ventures and seek to block the transfer of their stake pending the sale.

Jurgen Klopp will coach Germany's national soccer team through the 2030 World Cup. He replaces Julian Nagelsmann after the team's recent World Cup failures. Klopp returns to coaching after a break, feeling recharged for this new challenge. He previously managed Liverpool, known for his exciting style of play. His first games will be challenging Nations League matches in September and October.

The Supreme Court will hear petitions concerning police actions against students protesting the NEET-UG paper leak. These pleas allege police excesses during demonstrations demanding accountability for examination irregularities. A protest march in Delhi on July 20 turned violent after clashes with security personnel. Students are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Euro zone business activity returned to growth in July for the first time in four months, driven by a rebound in new orders and stronger manufacturing and services output, an S&P Global survey showed. While the recovery suggests the bloc may regain momentum after a weak first quarter, economists cautioned that persistent inflation and renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to pose risks to the outlook.

The number of medical colleges in India has more than doubled since 2014, rising from 387 to 844, while MBBS seats have increased from 51,348 to 1.39 lakh, Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel informed the Lok Sabha on Friday. She said the expansion, along with initiatives such as the Family Adoption Programme, District Residency Programme and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, is aimed at improving healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved areas, while strengthening medical educatio

The Supreme Court directed the Centre and NTA to file a fresh, comprehensive affidavit detailing progress on implementing NEET reforms following the paper leak. The court sought updates on measures to improve transparency, security, digital infrastructure and governance, stressing that the reforms must be institutionalised and would remain under its close monitoring.

India's latest ecommerce export reforms could transform thousands of MSMEs into global exporters by connecting small-town manufacturers with overseas buyers through platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart. Combined with Districts as Export Hubs, ODOP and FTAs, the policy aims to broaden India's exports and create the country's next export growth story.

Explosions sounded near a U.S. base in Iraq and sirens rang out in Bahrain on Friday. The U.S. military conducted its thirteenth night of strikes against Iran in recent weeks. Iran has attacked ships in the Strait of Hormuz and targeted U.S. assets and allies. Houthi rebels also targeted Saudi tankers in the Red Sea, increasing shipping risks.

The Centre requested time until Saturday afternoon to respond to resignation demands. Leaders of the Cockroach Janata Party met with government officials on Friday. They discussed compensation for families and withdrawal of cases against students. The government expressed in-principle approval for these two key demands. The agitation will continue until a formal response is received by the party.

Protests over paper leaks at Jantar Mantar have entered their seventh week. Senior citizens are now supporting the student-led agitation for examination reforms. Many older individuals have traveled long distances to join the ongoing demonstrations. They express concern for the future of the country's youth. This inter-generational movement highlights a shared commitment to educational integrity.

The Union Cabinet has approved a bill proposing stricter punishments for examination paper leaks, with the legislation likely to be introduced in Parliament next week. The move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement that the government would strengthen laws against exam fraud and is expected to include provisions for faster prosecution through mechanisms such as fast-track courts.

The BJP has dismissed Sonia Gandhi's criticism regarding student protests and government actions. BJP leaders accused the Congress of seeking political advantage from the ongoing student demonstrations. They stated that a stringent law against paper leaks will be introduced soon. The party also highlighted past paper leaks during Congress rule without significant action. The government aims to restore student confidence and seeks parliamentary discussion on NEET irregularities.

Gujarat continues to face severe flooding for a third consecutive day. Thousands of people have been relocated to safer places and many others rescued. Emergency response teams and the Army are actively involved in rescue operations. Schools have been shut and train services cancelled due to waterlogged routes. Authorities are closely monitoring the evolving flood situation across affected districts.

A South Korean court ordered an AI chip-manufacturing tycoon on Friday to make a trimmed-down $644 million divorce payment to his former wife. The Supreme Court had already separately ordered Chey to make an alimony payment to Roh of 2 billion won. cdl-sjh/jts/djw

The Supreme Court has barred the posting, reposting or uploading of audio-video recordings of court proceedings on social media and digital platforms without prior permission from authorised judicial officials. The interim order came after concerns were raised over the misuse and unauthorised circulation of live-streamed court hearings. The court has also sought responses from the Centre and other stakeholders on regulating the use of court proceeding recordings.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced a bill in the Rajya Sabha seeking to criminalise insults to or obstruction of Vande Mataram. The legislation proposes amending the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, to give the national song statutory protection similar to the national anthem, flag and Constitution.

US warnings of sanctions targeting Chinese AI companies could jeopardize critical safety conversations. The rise in allegations of intellectual property theft and breaches of export controls contributes to rising tensions. With advanced AI technologies posing serious security risks, both nations recognize that frontier AI is a double-edged sword. Urgent cooperation on establishing safety protocols is pivotal for fostering responsible advancements in AI technology.

In a striking development, Lok Sabha proceedings faced interruptions for five straight days as Opposition members demanded the resignation of the Education Minister following the NEET paper leak controversy. The government sought a debate on the issues, arguing that avoiding discussions conveys a poor message. Prime Minister Modi pledged to establish strict laws and accelerated trials for those implicated.