The Economic Times

Gujarat elections 2026: A notable result from the Gujarat local body elections 2026 has emerged from Godhra, where an independent Hindu candidate, Apekshaben Soni, won from a Muslim-majority ward, signalling a strong message of communal harmony and trust-based voting. In a city historically linked with communal tensions, this outcome challenges long-held assumptions and reflects a shift towards unity and merit-driven electoral choices.

The Conference Board said its consumer confidence index climbed 0.6 points to 92.8 this month. Data for March was revised higher to show the index at 92.2 instead of 91.8. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast the index easing to 89.0. The improvement in confidence was despite worries about higher gasoline prices.

James Baldwin shares a powerful idea about teaching and truth. His quote shows that children need respect and honesty to learn properly. It explains how emotions and trust play a big role in education. His words still guide teachers, parents, and young people to build better understanding and real learning.

Portuguese proverb of the day: A barking dog does not bite, highlights the difference between words and real action in human behavior. The timeless wisdom suggests that people who make loud threats, strong claims, or aggressive statements are often less likely to act on them. The proverb teaches an important life lesson about understanding intentions beyond appearances and not being intimidated by empty words.

The US is seeking to deepen ties and counter the influence of Russian oil and gas in southern Europe, having signed a long-term deal last year to export liquefied natural gas to Greece.

Why is UAE leaving OPEC, will Iraq or Kuwait leave next? Nearly 3.5 million barrels per day are now at stake. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries faces a rare rupture as the UAE leaving OPEC becomes official from May 1, 2026. Why is UAE leaving OPEC? The answer is control. Abu Dhabi wants freedom to raise output, respond faster to market shocks, and align oil policy with its economic strategy. This move challenges OPECs quota system and weakens cartel unity.

Anthropic hiring new job role: Anthropic is hiring a brand events lead with a salary up to $400,000. This role focuses on real-world connection and in-person engagement. The company emphasizes dialogue and direct interaction. This approach contrasts with other AI firms. It highlights the importance of human connection in the digital age.

China is intensifying customs inspections on fertilizer exports, particularly ammonium sulphate, to prevent circumvention of new restrictions. This crackdown follows instances of exporters misdeclaring restricted urea and potash as the permitted ammonium sulphate. The move aims to curb exports amid a widening price gap between domestic and soaring international fertilizer markets, influenced by Strait of Hormuz disruptions.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright believes a safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz can be quickly established. He indicated not all Iranian mines require removal for ships to resume transit. The vital waterway has been effectively closed since late February, causing significant supply disruptions and price spikes for oil and gas.

UK graduate job crisis: A 21-year-old graduates struggle to find a job in the UK has gone viral, highlighting the growing challenges in the graduate job market. Khaled Sharif, a top-performing student from Kingston University, has applied to nearly 500 jobs but received fewer than 20 interview calls. Despite spending over 1 crore on his education, he remains unemployed and has expanded his search beyond his field. He attributes the situation to an oversupply of graduates, reduced hiring, and inc

Soliloquy is a word rich in literary prestige and emotional resonance. It speaks to those moments when inner thoughts demand expression, whether on stage, on paper, or in life itself.

Blue Cross Blue Shield is giving money to many people after a big case. People who had their insurance earlier and filed claims may get paid soon. The company is checking claims now and sending updates. The payment amount will not be the same for everyone. This case may also bring changes to make the insurance market more fair in future.

Assam's Assembly elections concluded on April 9, with vote counting set for May 4. Exit polls for Assam and other states will be released after 6:30 PM on April 29, offering early trends. This will provide the first indication of whether the BJP can retain power or if Congress will emerge victorious.

India has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Mali. These coordinated assaults claimed the life of Mali's Defence Minister, General Sadio Camara, and several others. India stands in solidarity with the Malian government and its people during this difficult period. The nation reiterates its commitment to fighting terrorism and supporting regional peace and stability.

California voters face a crucial debate night. The governor's race remains wide open with many undecided. Affordability and the economy are top concerns. Candidates must connect with voters on these issues. The debate could significantly shape the outcome. This is a decisive phase for the election.

Fresh USIran talks to end a two-month conflict face deep mistrust, hardened positions and starkly different negotiating styles, raising doubts over a quick breakthrough even as global stakes rise. The new round follows the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal under Donald Trump, which set the stage for the current conflict.

India has called for immediate restoration of safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The nation expressed deep concern over the safety of its seafarers and the impact of waterway disruptions on global trade. Recent incidents have tragically claimed Indian lives. India emphasizes that freedom of navigation and global commerce must be respected.

The move is the first step in the reactor's start-up phase before it is brought up to its minimum controlled power level and power then gradually increased and electricity supplied to Bangladesh's power grid.

Quote of the day by Trevor Noah: Trevor Noahs quote highlights the double edged nature of comfort in personal growth and success. While comfort offers stability, safety, and emotional security, it can also limit ambition and prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. The quote encourages people to challenge themselves, embrace discomfort, and pursue continuous improvement, reminding us that true success begins outside the comfort zone.

India is leading the global fight against climate challenges. Agriculture production reached 357 million tonnes in 2024-25. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha urged scientists and stakeholders to build climate resilience. He emphasized bold, science-led, farmer-focused transformation and climate-resilient crops. Policies must champion climate-adapted varieties. Farms are the bedrock of civilization and economies.

The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal has cancelled tax proceedings against Sunetra Ajit Pawar. A Rs 32.14 crore addition treated as unexplained income was deleted. The tribunal found the tax department's evidence legally unsustainable. Proceedings were initiated based on material seized during a search on the Triton Group.

May 2026 Social Security payments begin May 1. The Social Security payment May 2026 calendar confirms no delay since May 1 falls on a working Friday. That keeps the system on track and predictable. The Social Security payment May 2026 rollout then shifts to retirement, SSDI, and survivor benefits. These follow a birth-date system across three Wednesdays.

The narrow waterway, already a chokepoint for global oil shipments, is equally vital for the digital world. Several fibre-optic cables snake across the seabed of the strait, connecting countries from India and Southeast Asia to Europe via the Gulf states and Egypt.

Indian Railway launches a new weekly train connecting Ayodhya to Mumbai. This service will improve travel between Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, passing through Madhya Pradesh. The Amrit Bharat Express offers affordable and comfortable journeys for passengers. It aims to strengthen connections for devotees and workers. This initiative boosts connectivity for migrant communities and pilgrimage sites.

India has made a strategic move by approving the export of an additional 25 lakh tonnes of wheat, marking a total of 50 lakh tonnes now permitted for international markets. Moreover, exports of wheat products have been expanded by 10 lakh tonnes.

Europe's jet fuel imports from the Middle East are stopping. This could cause a shortage before summer travel. Jet fuel prices are high, over $200 a barrel. Airlines say they have other sources. However, some officials warn of potential supply issues. Europe needs imports to meet demand. This situation could impact travel plans.

West Bengal Assembly Election Results 2026 date and time: West Bengal's Phase II polling concludes on April 29, 2026, with vote counting for all states, including West Bengal, scheduled for May 4, 2026. The Election Commission of India announced the schedule for Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

A major wildfire has engulfed thousands of acres in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiris district for over ten days. Over 500 personnel are battling the flames in challenging terrain. Aerial operations were halted due to strong winds, forcing reliance on manual firefighting. The blaze has impacted ecologically sensitive zones, raising concerns for wildlife and ancient elephant corridors.

India and New Zealand have signed a Free Trade Agreement. This pact offers zero-duty access for most Indian exports. Key sectors like textiles, leather, and pharmaceuticals will see significant growth. The agreement aims to double bilateral trade to $5 billion in five years. It also opens new opportunities in services and investment flows between the two nations.

Russian superyacht crosses Strait of Hormuz blockade: how a $500M vessel tied to Alexey Mordashov quietly exposed cracks in global control - The $500 million superyacht Nord, linked to Alexey Mordashov, moved from Dubai to Oman in under a day. It crossed the Strait of Hormuz at a time when commercial traffic has sharply fallen. The passage came during the 2026 IranUS conflict, when restrictions and naval pressure have slowed global shipping.

As the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026 Phase 2 is set to take place on 29 April, the Election Commission of India is urging voters to verify their details in advance to ensure a smooth voting experience across 142 constituencies. Voters are advised to check their names in the electoral roll online, understand the importance of their EPIC number, and download their E-EPIC (digital voter ID), which is fully valid for voting. With polling day approaching, completing these simple steps can help a

Women voters are outnumbering men in many West Bengal assembly segments for the second phase of polling. This trend is prominent in urban areas around Kolkata and Salt Lake. Several key constituencies show a significant surplus of female voters. This pattern also emerged in the first phase of polling. Election data indicates higher turnout among women voters compared to men.

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has defended a joke in which he referred to Melania Trump as an expectant widow, made just days before a shooting incident linked to the White House Correspondents Dinner.

Megan Thee Stallion has made a surprising career move by exiting Moulin Rouge! The Musical earlier than scheduled, just days after announcing her breakup with Klay Thompson. Originally set to continue through mid-May, her final performance will now take place on May 1. The decision has drawn attention due to its timing, though no official link to her personal life has been confirmed. Her Broadway debut had boosted interest in the production and marked a major milestone in her career.

Efforts to end the Middle East war appeared at a standstill on Tuesday, with the US considering Tehran's latest offer to unblock the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran saying Washington could no longer dictate terms. - 'Another year of fighting' - Violence has continued on the war's Lebanese front, despite a recently extended ceasefire between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which drew Lebanon into the Middle East war by firing rockets at Israel.

Araghchi, who met Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg on Monday, said he was pleased to engage with Russia at the highest level as the region is in major flux.

Build a stronger, more defined core with these six low-impact workouts designed to minimize sweat while maximizing results. By focusing on slow, controlled movements like the Wall Press and Bird-Dog, you can sculpt your midsection through functional tension, making fitness accessible and easy to integrate into any busy 2026 schedule.

A court in Meghalaya has granted bail to Sonam Raghuvanshi. She is accused of orchestrating her husband Raja Raghuvanshi's murder. The incident occurred during their honeymoon in the state in 2025. Raja Raghuvanshi went missing and his body was later found mutilated. Sonam and others were arrested in connection with the case. Police will continue their investigation.

West Bengal is set for Phase 2 of the Assembly Election 2026 on 29 April, with preparations underway across major urban and semi-urban areas. A public holiday has been declared in polling constituencies, leading to the closure of schools, colleges, offices, and banks, while essential services such as healthcare, emergency services, transport, and utilities will continue to operate without disruption. Residents are advised to stay informed and plan accordingly as the state gears up for a smooth v

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav visited BJP MLA Anupama Jaiswal in a Lucknow hospital. Jaiswal suffered burn injuries during a protest in Bahraich earlier this week. Yadav expressed his wishes for her speedy recovery. He emphasized the importance of human relationships over political differences. Jaiswal's husband acknowledged the gesture of goodwill. The MLA is receiving treatment for significant burn injuries.

The U.S. minimum wage increase 2026 reveals a stark reality. Pay varies sharply by state. The federal rate still stands at $7.25. That number has not changed since 2009. Yet, in May 2026, Washington, D.C. pays $17.95 per hour. Washington state follows at $17.13. California and New York stay close behind. This gap is not minor anymore. It shapes daily life. It decides buying power. It affects rent, food, and savings. Many states now cross $15. Others remain at the federal floor. The U.S. minimum

The Supreme Court ruled that ending a consensual live-in relationship, even after 15 years, is not a criminal offense. Justices stated that criminal charges like sexual harassment cannot be applied to such relationships, though civil remedies for child maintenance remain an option. The court acknowledged sympathy for the woman but emphasized legal limits on criminalizing consensual unions.

Delta Airlines flight attendants provided blankets and an obstetrical kit, a sterile set of medical tools used in emergency childbirth.

The Election Commission of India has announced that Kerala Assembly Elections 2026 results will be declared on May 4, 2026. Counting of votes will begin around 8:00 AM. Initial trends are expected in the first few hours, with final results likely by afternoon or evening.

Wordle hints today: Tuesdays puzzle throws a surprising twist, catching even experienced players off guard. Featuring an uncommon opening letter and a meaning that seems simple at first glance, todays Wordle hints today guide is designed to help you keep your streak intact, and perhaps pick up a clever new strategy along the way.

U.S. Stock Market on Tuesday is heading for mixed opening with S&P 500, Nasdaq, Dow Jones are set for volatile trading.

U.S Weather Forecast: Severe storms are likely to hit major areas of the nation as many Americans brace for fierce tornadoes on Tuesday.

In Maharashtra's Kolhapur district, families are cooking with biogas, a clean fuel derived from local waste like cattle dung and kitchen scraps. This innovative system, adopted by hundreds of households, offers a stable energy source, shielding them from LPG price hikes and shortages. Government subsidies have fueled its widespread adoption, though funding delays have impacted recent installations.