The Economic Times

India and Uzbekistan will deepen cooperation in the mining sector. Discussions also focused on critical minerals and uranium exploration opportunities. Both nations are exploring ways to quickly implement a new memorandum of understanding. Agricultural collaboration will expand to include seed production and drip irrigation. Indian and Uzbek agricultural centers are cooperating in these key areas.

High-performance SUVs are increasingly favored by India's affluent achievers. These vehicles signify personal journeys and milestones for self-made individuals. The luxury automobile market now reflects a more diverse wealthy consumer base. Personalization options further enhance the ownership experience for these buyers. This trend highlights a shift in how success is displayed on Indian roads.

The event was part of WDS's ongoing effort to provide Indian MMA fighters with opportunities to compete against international opposition.

Indian Railways is testing vetiver, an aromatic-rooted grass native to India, as a low-cost nature-based solution to stabilise vulnerable slopes, control runoff and reduce the risk of landslides during heavy rainfall.

India faces challenges from Donald Trump's policies despite its autonomy. The nation is not reliant on the US for financial or strategic support. Global powers like Europe are also facing their own internal struggles. Russia and China are strengthening their alliances, impacting India's security. The US is no longer the sole global power shaping international affairs.

India's real GDP growth is likely to remain resilient at 7 per cent-7.2 per cent in FY27, supported by buoyant domestic demand and continued government focus on capital expenditure, while nominal GDP growth could reach 12.5 per cent-13 per cent, according to recent report by EY. The firm said economic growth prospects remain relatively strong despite geopolitical uncertainty, elevated crude oil prices and a weaker global trade environment.

Anandibai Joshi did not live to see her 22nd birthday. However, in her short life, she achieved multiple milestones, becoming the first certified female doctor who specialised in Western medicine and the first Indian woman to travel to the USA to study medicine. Her journey to acquire her degree was not without trials and tribulations.

India and Uzbekistan elevated their bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. A long-term arrangement for uranium supply was also established between the two nations. This upgrade aims to deepen cooperation in key strategic sectors. A Coordination Council at the foreign minister level will now guide bilateral cooperation. Business leaders will also jointly organize a summit to foster engagement.

Indian Bank plans to open approximately one hundred new branches this year. The bank will also increase its workforce by about two thousand five hundred personnel. This expansion aims to strengthen its presence in Central and Western regions. Asset quality management remains a focus, with targets for reducing NPAs. The lender anticipates its gold loan book will surpass one lakh fifty thousand crore rupees.

Sri Lankan cricket legend Kumar Sangakkaras Galle Fort home combines heritage and luxury. The 120-year-old villa sits inside UNESCO-listed Galle Fort and features three courtyards, coral walls, four bedrooms and a rooftop swimming pool with views of the Indian Ocean and Galle Lighthouse.

Former India fast bowler Javagal Srinath was spotted travelling on Bengaluru's Namma Metro with a trolley bag, leaving cricket fans impressed by his simple and unassuming lifestyle. The viral photograph has drawn comparisons with other Karnataka cricket legends and reminded fans of Srinath's illustrious career.

India has achieved full indigenisation of AK-203 rifle production. The Korwa facility now manufactures all components within the country. This milestone marks a decade-long journey in small-arms manufacturing. The young workforce plays a crucial role in this significant defence programme. Production is set to expand, with potential for exports and other weapons.

India and Uzbekistan agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Discussions covered digital connectivity, defence, and energy sectors for mutual growth. Modi also attended a yoga session, highlighting cultural ties between nations. He will next attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Kyrgyzstan.

India's beauty market is projected to nearly double to USD 42 billion by 2031. This expansion will make India the fourth-largest global beauty market by 2030. Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers will drive nearly half of sector spending by 2031. Online sales will increase their market share to 34 percent by 2031. Profitability and repeat orders will determine long-term business value for brands.

India's Finance Minister confirmed achieving fiscal deficit targets for 2025-26. The government plans to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio to fifty percent by 2030. Domestic economic growth sustained over seven percent despite global headwinds. India managed fertilizer shortages and shipping risks through government intervention. Bilateral trade agreements are advancing due to slow multilateral progress.

India's economic outcomes show distortions, not solely free-market forces at play. Company earnings and asset valuations are influenced by government interventions and incentives. Production Linked Incentive schemes support profitability in manufacturing sectors. Rural spending persists due to direct government transfers, not productivity gains. Policy interventions reshape outcomes, making growth seem stronger than it is.

Vietnam now leads all nations in its trade surplus with the United States. This significant shift occurred during the first half of the year 2026. Vietnam's surplus reached $114 billion, surpassing China and Mexico. This growth stems from economic reforms initiated in the 1980s and a China plus one strategy. Companies are increasingly diversifying manufacturing away from China towards Vietnam.

Russia is rationing petrol domestically as Ukrainian drone strikes damage its oil refineries. The nation continues crude oil production while facing domestic fuel shortages. Refineries like NORSI and Perm have halted operations after recent attacks. Russia is now importing finished petrol, notably from India. This situation highlights the strain on Russia's fuel processing infrastructure.

Park Medi World plans to add 1,450 beds by FY28, expanding its northern India network. The hospital chain focuses on Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities for efficient scaling. Acquisitions will target hospitals with 200-250 beds, expandable to 350. The company reported record net profit and revenue in FY26. Park Medi World is also adopting cleaner energy systems across its facilities.

India has sent 68.5 tonnes of relief materials and technical teams to Nepal. Specialized teams are assisting in search and rescue operations within hydropower tunnels. Forensic experts are also present to aid in DNA analysis following the disaster. Equipment for modular steel bridges has arrived to restore transport links. Nepali security forces have rescued many workers from affected hydropower projects.

India has become a key gasoline supplier to Russia recently. Russian fuel imports surged due to Ukrainian drone attacks on its refineries. Indian refiners supplied significant gasoline volumes to Russia in recent months. These supplies largely originated from Nayara Energy's Vadinar refinery. Russia is importing gasoline as domestic production faces disruptions.

India may need to sustain annual growth of more than 9% to achieve its developed-economy ambition by 2047. Economists say reaching that goal will require stronger manufacturing, private and foreign investment, exports, domestic savings and job creation, while avoiding the middle-income trap.

Global wine regions face climate challenges and declining demand. India's wine tourism is experiencing significant growth and expansion. Younger consumers are driving demand for sustainable and diverse wine options. Technology and new farming methods are future-proofing vineyards globally. India is poised to leverage these shifts in the evolving wine landscape.

Young investors are embracing Systematic Investment Plans for disciplined wealth creation. Data shows a significant rise in SIPs among those under thirty years old. Fintech platforms are observing increased SIP adoption across various asset classes. Parents are also initiating SIPs for their children's future education needs. This growing SIP habit faces challenges from market volatility and investor education.

Indians missing in Nepal floods: India has intensified rescue and relief operations following Nepal's devastating Bhote Koshi River floods. One hundred eight Indian nationals have been safely rescued from affected areas in Nepal so far. India has dispatched multiple flights carrying essential relief materials and equipment to Kathmandu. Efforts continue to locate missing Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin in the region.

Temasek has shown its support for Singapore Airlines' investment in Air India amidst rising concerns regarding the Indian carrier's financial downturn. Following its first quarterly loss since 2022, Singapore Airlines is looking for substantial new equity from its stakeholders. Temasek perceives this investment as part of a broader long-term strategic vision.

An Indian woman living in the US, posting as @american_desi_family, went viral for highlighting the irony of shifting priorities after moving abroad, from craving Western food in India to missing Indian food and community in the US. Her video, which called this pattern he hypocrisy of life, struck a chord online, though some users pushed back, calling it irony rather than hypocrisy, and highlighting the practical benefits of living abroad.

Air India has teased the arrival of another Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. This development marks another step in the airline's ongoing fleet transformation plans. The carrier is also refurbishing its existing legacy Boeing 787-8 aircraft with upgraded cabins. By the end of 2026, nearly sixty percent of its widebody fleet will feature modern interiors. This signals a milestone in strengthening its international long-haul market position.

Chutney has travelled far beyond Indian kitchens, evolving into music in the Caribbean, finding a place on British supermarket shelves and inspiring new packaged-food categories in India. From chutney soca and Salman Rushdies chutnification to mango jars, cheese boards and Indias growing ready-to-eat market, the condiment has become a global cultural and commercial phenomenon.

Indias 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka offered plenty to ponder, from the limitations of two-Test series to Gills growing authority as captain.

Prime Minister Modi will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Bishkek next week. This meeting precedes President Xi's visit to India for the BRICS Summit. The Bishkek discussions will prepare for substantive outcomes in New Delhi. India will also push for stronger anti-terror measures and connectivity initiatives. Discussions will focus on financial mechanisms and counter-terrorism efforts.

A Delhi woman living in London says she would choose a 100,000 salary in the UK capital over Rs 50 lakh a year in Delhi, despite missing family and everyday conveniences in India. Jasleen Kaur says cleaner air, safety, work-life balance, a walkable lifestyle, support systems and better health have made London the preferred choice for her.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Hyatt President and CEO Mark S. Hoplamazian in Chicago. Discussions focused on Hyatt's continued commitment and expansion opportunities within India. Sitharaman highlighted India's improving infrastructure and connectivity, opening new travel destinations.

An 11-member Indian team has arrived in Nepal to assist authorities after devastating flash floods killed more than 500 people and left nearly 2,000 missing. Sent at Nepals request, the team includes medical personnel and tunnel rescue experts. Nepal has also sought India and Chinas help to construct 42 Bailey bridges.

Ola Electric secured Rs 95.81 crore under the PLI-Auto Scheme for FY 2026-27. This incentive follows a previous sanction of Rs 366.78 crore for FY 2024-25. The company's manufacturing capabilities and commitment to EV technology are recognized. This reinforces Ola Electric's role in India's advanced automotive manufacturing ecosystem. The scheme aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing and encourage advanced automotive technologies.

On March 31, Oracle executed a massive layoff, affecting thousands of employees worldwide. Notices were sent through email, indicating that numerous positions had been removed. Many workers found their system access terminated almost immediately. Additionally, speculation arises about another significant round of layoffs potentially hitting around September 1, largely attributed to Oracle's major investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Elara has initiated coverage on four pharmaceutical stocks, assigning Buy, Accumulate and Reduce ratings. Alkem Laboratories emerged as its top pick for margin recovery, while Eris Lifesciences and Mankind Pharma could benefit from portfolio expansion, acquisitions and deleveraging. Elara retained a cautious view on IPCA Laboratories after its recent rally.

The government has achieved about 78% of its 80,000-crore FY27 disinvestment and asset monetisation target within five months. It has raised 62,124 crore so far, led by a 31,515-crore LIC stake sale, while the strategic sale of IDBI Bank remains on the table.

Around 2.7 lakh Delhi construction workers will soon receive free healthcare services. This new scheme offers 24x7 medical assistance and annual health check-ups. Beneficiaries can get treatment worth up to two lakh rupees annually. Mobile medical vans will also visit construction sites for immediate assistance. Digital health records will be maintained for all eligible workers.

Ankur Warikoo reflected on how he went from playing with his sister every day for 15 years to speaking with her once or twice a month. He said college, the US, relationships, marriage and separate homes gradually created distance. Warikoo believes siblings are often taken for granted because we assume they will always be there. His advice: send a simple Hey today.

India and Canada aim to deepen economic ties, expanding beyond goods and services. They plan to scale up bilateral trade to seventy billion dollars annually by 2030. Discussions focused on investment, financial sector cooperation, and critical minerals. Canadian investors were urged to leverage India's growing economy and talent. Both nations seek to build more resilient and inclusive economies together.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation will soon receive its first Iraqi crude oil shipment. This move aims to secure supplies while facing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The company is also open to purchasing more Gulf crude on a free-on-board basis. BPCL plans a ship-to-ship transfer of the Iraqi cargo near Fujairah. This diversification strategy helps maintain essential fuel supplies for the nation.

As the Virgo Sun draws attention to practical responsibilities while the Pisces Moon brings hidden emotions to the surface, the day's Lunar Eclipse astrological predictionssuggest that clarity may come when you stop focusing on what everyone else expects from you and start considering what genuinely works for your own life.

Mumbai's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a one-year learning period for drivers. This extension allows drivers time to acquire functional Marathi language skills. No action will be taken against drivers during this granted one-year period. Marathi classes and study materials will be provided to aid their learning efforts. This decision follows a recent transport department drive and driver organization meetings.

These plants are competing for sun, nutrients, water and especially pollination in this harsh environment of limited but intense sunlight.

Bihar police have ordered a DNA test on a buffalo in Gaya after two villagers claimed ownership of the same animal. The test will compare the buffalos DNA with its living mother to help establish the rightful owner. The unusual dispute has also led to an FIR under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

A simple straw checkerboard system developed at Shapotou in Chinas Tengger Desert helped protect the Baotou-Lanzhou railway from shifting sand while creating conditions for vegetation to return. By slowing wind and stabilising dunes, the technique dramatically reduced sand movement and gradually helped turn barren desert surfaces into more stable, living ecosystems.

Alyssa Yu, a 17-year-old Maryland student, has developed a mathematical model to predict how two infectious diseases can spread and interact across connected populations. Her research could help public health officials identify outbreak hotspots and target vaccination efforts more effectively. Yu was named one of 40 finalists in the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search.