The Economic Times

India enforced the follow-on after bowling out Sri Lanka for 290 on day four. Sonal Dinusha scored 103, his second century of the series, as the last batter dismissed. Debutant Saransh Jain claimed the final two Sri Lankan wickets for India. Seamer Prasidh Krishna and spinner Manav Suthar took three wickets each. India leads the two-test series against Sri Lanka by a 1-0 margin.

Richard Feynman posited that a scientific grasp enhances our appreciation of nature's splendor. He contended that delving into a flower's biology unveils a multitude of marvels. As a renowned physicist and Nobel laureate, Feynman advocated for curiosity as a lens through which to view the world. His ability to simplify complex scientific concepts continues to ignite passion and curiosity among audiences today.

Rural communities face growing concerns over rapid data center expansion. Farmers and environmentalists unite against potential farmland loss and water depletion. Supporters highlight job creation and technological advancement for the nation. However, opposition is mounting across various states and political divides. Elected officials are adapting to this complex and evolving political landscape.

The world mourns the loss of country music legend Dolly Parton, who passed away peacefully at eighty in Nashville on August 25. From her modest roots, she transformed into an icon, creating a legacy through her music. Passionate about education, she founded the Imagination Library, delivering countless free books to children globally. Her philanthropic spirit extended to aiding disaster recovery and funding COVID-19 vaccine research.

Roger Federer bid farewell to the tennis world with his last exhibition match held in New York, where he faced off against his dear friend Andy Roddick. The occasion was a trip down memory lane as Federer shared anecdotes from his U.S. Open victories. The event culminated in a thrilling doubles match alongside John McEnroe, captivating fans who gathered to celebrate the legacy of this tennis icon.

Dolly the sheep made headlines in 1996 when she became the first mammal to be cloned from an adult somatic cell using a technique called somatic cell nuclear transfer. Her birth was announced in 1997, sparking worldwide fascination and intense ethical debates. Although Dolly lived a relatively normal life and had six offspring, she later developed health complications and was put to sleep at the age of six.

At least 15 newborns were killed in a fire at the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad, according to Geo TV. The blaze reportedly started after a fault in the hospitals air-conditioning system, while one of the 16 infants in the ward was rescued.

India proposed a startup pitching series similar to Shark Tank. This initiative aims to connect young startups from both nations. Indian startups can pitch for Japanese investments and partners. Japanese businesses are invited to collaborate with India for mutual prosperity. Cooperation between universities and venture funds will also increase.

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati reviewed party organisation and mass base expansion efforts in Punjab. She emphasised fielding honest candidates for upcoming assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The BSP will contest the Punjab elections independently, without any electoral alliances or compromises. This strategy aims to boost party morale and achieve better electoral results for the people.

Republicans will hold their midterm convention next month in Dallas, Texas. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance are scheduled to headline the event. The convention aims to showcase the party's candidates and the Trump administration's agenda. Republicans will highlight policy successes and contrast them with Democratic candidates. The gathering will also address issues like healthcare and border security.

The upcoming general election in Alaska features a noteworthy twist: a candidate by the name of Dan J. Sullivan is set to compete against the incumbent, also named Dan Sullivan, and Mary Peltola. After a recent legal decision, the challenger's eligibility has been secured, paving the way for significant races for the U.S. House and governorship.

US senators are questioning Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s explanation regarding his financial stake. His recent statements conflict with earlier testimony and ethics filings about Gardasil vaccine litigation. Kennedy previously stated he would transfer his interest in potential Gardasil fees to his son. However, he now claims neither he nor his family received any money from the settlement.

In 2026, Raksha Bandhan will take place on August 28, a Friday that will resonate with celebrations across India. This article features a collection of heartfelt wishes and messages, highlighting the unbreakable bond and cherished memories between siblings. Additionally, details for identifying images related to Rakhi 2026 are provided, enriching the festival experience.

Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has been reportedly warned by the FBI and Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This warning comes as Indian national Nikhil Gupta is set for sentencing in connection with a previous plot.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has thrown substantial support behind Assam's flood recovery efforts, unveiling key financial assistance measures. A remarkable Rs 5,000 crore has been designated for the construction of new homes in flood-affected areas, complemented by Rs 140 crore sanctioned under the RKVY program. Assam's Chief Minister has publicly thanked the Centre for acting promptly to facilitate these vital measures.

Eid Milad-un-Nabi, which marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad, is set to be celebrated on August 26 this year which is today. Muslims around the globe come together to reflect on the Prophet's teachings about compassion and kindness. Observances typically include morning prayers and recitation of the Quran. As 2026 approaches, heartfelt wishes are shared for peace, faith, and prosperity, inspiring communities to embrace love and harmony.

On Wednesday, Indian stock markets rallied, buoyed by a decrease in oil prices and renewed optimism surrounding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, following a resumption of talks with Iran. Both the Sensex and Nifty indices showed positive momentum, with broader market metrics also trending upward, reflecting a hopeful sentiment among investors amid the fluctuating oil landscape.

New U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods escalate trade tensions between the two nations. This dispute jeopardizes the vital U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, impacting regional trade. Both countries face potential economic damage from prolonged trade friction and retaliatory measures. Global economic conditions are already strained, making this trade spat particularly concerning. Other nations are observing these developments closely as they unfold.

Zoho chief scientist Sridhar Vembu has urged engineers, scientists and doctors who want to become entrepreneurs to start with sales calls, embrace rejection and learn directly from customers. He argues that selling improves communication, tests business assumptions and helps technical professionals understand what it takes to build a successful company.

HEG shares will be in focus after the company fixed September 7 as the record date for its demerger, which will create two separately listed entities focused on graphite electrodes and advanced materials. The demerger ratio has been fixed at 1:1, with existing shareholders set to receive one share in the spun-off company for every HEG share held.

World-renowned country music legend Dolly Parton has sadly passed away at the age of 80 after a courageous fight with cancer and various health complications. Rising from a modest upbringing, she became a symbol of success in the music industry, captivating audiences for over sixty years. Parton's incredible legacy is defined by her unforgettable songs and meaningful performances that touched millions worldwide.

Indian economic growth slowed to 7.1 percent in the April-June quarter. Consumer spending and government expenditure supported this growth while private investment remained subdued. Rising crude oil prices pose risks to the economy and could strain household budgets. Economists forecast growth to lose momentum in coming quarters. The Reserve Bank of India is predicted to keep interest rates unchanged for six months.

Billionbrains Garage Ventures, the parent company of Groww, will be in focus as early investor Ribbit Capital plans to sell a 1.6% stake through a block deal worth Rs 1,914 crore. The shares are being offered at Rs 195 apiece, a 4% discount to the previous close.

Mike Mazzei secured the Republican nomination for Oklahoma governor. President Donald Trump's social media attacks boosted Mazzei's campaign significantly. Mazzei will now face Democratic nominee Cyndi Munson in November. The race saw substantial spending on television and digital advertising. Mazzei, a businessman, previously served twelve years in the state Senate.

The United States is discussing additional trade penalties against Canada. This follows Canada's dollar-for-dollar retaliation to new US tariffs imposed on Saturday. Escalation could include higher tariffs and other trade actions, according to a White House official. The prospect of a spiraling trade war between the two nations is underscored. Both sides blame each other for intransigence and unfair treatment in the dispute.

QatarEnergy has issued a second tender this week for crude sales. The company is selling al-Shaheen and Qatar Marine crude via transfers. These transfers will occur outside the Strait of Hormuz for early October. Bids for this tender are due by noon Doha time on Wednesday. This follows a previous tender offering crude for September and October loadings.

The United States has sanctioned four Indian companies and three individuals for facilitating Iran trade. These actions place Indian businesses dealing with Tehran under increased scrutiny. Washington aims to sever economic lifelines sustaining the Iranian regime through Operation Economic Outcast. India maintains limited but strategically important economic ties with Iran, including Chabahar port access.

Quote of the Day by Ernest Rutherford: Ernest Rutherford's quote for the day on the possibilities of maximizing current opportunities and resources. Modern life often encourages comparison, leading to a focus on hypothetical situations. The physicist's words encourage reflection on actual actions taken with available means. Circumstances matter, but dwelling on imagined pasts hinders present progress. Doing one's best with what is available reveals true capabilities.

Police registered a case of abetment to suicide against unidentified persons. An IIT Delhi M.Sc. Physics student died after jumping from a campus building. He entered the campus and went to the Lecture Hall Complex building. The student was rushed to the campus hospital and declared brought dead. The investigation is ongoing, and counselling records are being obtained.

Ravi Kishan dance viral video: Anupam Kher, Boman Irani and Pravinn Dabas recreate Ravi Kishans viral dance step as they welcome him to the cast of Khosla Ka Ghosla 2, adding a fun twist to the films promotions. Watch the viral video here.

Delhi-NCR Weather Forecast August 26: Delhi-NCR anticipates cloudy skies and light rain today, with heavier storms possible tonight. Light rain may continue on August 27, followed by partly cloudy conditions. Noida and Gurugram expect intermittent showers and potential thunderstorms throughout the day. Ghaziabad also faces cloudy weather and possible rain spells with thunderstorms. The region's weather remains changeable, with widespread rainfall expected across northwest India.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged Muslim nations to strengthen regional security and stability. He emphasized expanding cultural, commercial, and political ties among Islamic states. Iraqi officials praised Iran's role in combating terrorism and sought economic cooperation. Both nations discussed enhancing bilateral relations and security cooperation. Iraq reiterated its commitment to national interest and avoiding regional conflicts.

Pakistan's Supreme Court will hear a contempt petition on September 16. Uzma Khan filed the petition over Imran Khan's hospital transfer order. The court registrar fixed the hearing along with the main case. The government has also filed a review petition challenging the August 18 order. This hearing will address both the health and implementation issues.

In a strategic dialogue, India and the US focused on strengthening their partnership in the Indian Ocean, highlighting the importance of maritime security and infrastructure initiatives. Central to their talks was the India-US Indian Ocean Strategic Venture, designed to enhance connectivity and safeguard the region, revealing both nations' commitment to foster greater integration and mutual support.

A wildfire rapidly expanded across Texas ranchland, destroying structures. The blaze forced evacuations and school closures in affected areas. Firefighters battled the blaze with minimal containment amid strong winds. Multiple wildfires are also occurring across the South and West regions. This year has seen the most wildfires nationwide in a decade.

India called for global cooperation to safeguard critical sea lanes for essential goods. Secure maritime routes are indispensable for uninterrupted movement of food and fuel. Conflicts increasingly generate ripple effects far beyond immediate areas of hostilities. The UN Secretary-General noted record armed conflicts and high levels of global hunger. India stressed mitigating humanitarian consequences of conflict as an immediate priority.

The United States is imposing economic sanctions on Iran's financial networks globally. China, Iran's largest trading partner, presents a significant challenge to this strategy. President Trump plans to host Chinese leader Xi Jinping soon, impacting policy decisions. Beijing states its cooperation with Iran adheres to international law and will be protected. Analysts suggest the US will likely avoid confronting China directly before the summit.

President Donald Trump ordered a significant reduction in joint military exercises with South Korea. He cited costs and his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise was consequently halved in duration. Live drills were also reduced, focusing more on defensive operations. North Korea has dismissed the reduction as inconsequential to exercise aggression.

Onam 2026: Onam, a vibrant 10-day festival celebrating both the harvest and the mythical return of King Mahabali started on August 16, 2026. As communities come together to share heartfelt wishes for happiness and prosperity, the celebration will be adorned with lush floral decorations and traditional feasts. The festivities will reach their peak during Thiruvonam on August 26, 2026, today.

In response to the growing concern about H1N1, Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital has launched a dedicated isolation ward for affected individuals. As the H1N1 strain of Influenza A takes precedence among respiratory pathogens in India, the hospital stands ready to enhance its medical infrastructure if the situation demands. The countrys real-time disease surveillance system efficiently tracks viral outbreaks, ensuring immediate alerts on increasing respiratory infection rates.

In a significant shift, Australia's music charts will no longer recognize AI-generated tracks. This decision followed an uproar regarding a DJ's AI-supported cover hitting number one on local charts. Tracks composed entirely by AI are excluded from the ARIA Charts, while those using AI as an aid but primarily created by humans remain eligible.

The U.S. Department of Justice has concluded an investigation into Deloitte's diversity and inclusion efforts, leading to a $21.5 million settlement. Deloitte denies any discriminatory practices but has agreed to the settlement to resolve claims from a group challenging affirmative action, of which $4.3 million will be awarded to them as part of the deal.

Brent crude futures were down $2.35, or 2.65%, at $86 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell $1.94, or 2.36%, to $80.42. Both benchmarks had declined more than 3% on Tuesday.

Speaking in a television programme on Tuesday night, Gharibabadi said the understanding reached with Oman should not be interpreted as the reopening of the strait.

Meta Platforms and state attorneys general are discussing a potential mid-trial settlement. This lawsuit accuses the company of designing social media to be addictive for young users. The ongoing federal court trial in California is a significant test of these allegations. Several state attorneys general have announced plans for press conferences regarding settlements. These actions are part of a larger effort addressing youth mental health concerns.