The Economic Times

Union Home Minister Amit Shah led a vibrant roadshow in Kolkata. The event supported BJP candidates, including Suvendu Adhikari for Bhabanipur. The rally featured music, colours, and saffron flags. Shah called for 'Parivartan', stating West Bengal desires change. The roadshow passed Mamata Banerjee's residence. The minister highlighted concerns about women's security, unemployment, and corruption in the state.

Four astronauts have launched on a historic mission around the moon. This marks humanity's first lunar voyage in over fifty years. Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen is part of this crew. His wife, Catherine Hansen, a doctor, supported his lifelong dream. The mission is a significant step for NASA's lunar ambitions.

M K Stalin accused the NDA of betrayals during a rally, alleging that MSMEs were hit during the West Asia crisis and weavers were not protected from US tariffs. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam chief also criticised the NDA over issues such as NEET and the CAA, and attacked the AIADMK-BJP alliance.

The government has clarified that pre-paid electricity meters are not mandatory for consumers. Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar stated this in the Lok Sabha. The system offers flexible recharges for affordability. However, habitual defaulters may be required to adopt pre-paid meters to ensure revenue for uninterrupted power supply.

India relies heavily on fertiliser imports routed through the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently facing disruptions.

The Supreme Court has cancelled the bail granted to businessman Satinder Singh Bhasin. This is in connection with the alleged Grand Venice Mall scam. Bhasin must surrender within a week. The court also forfeited Rs 50 crore deposited by him. This amount will be used for legal aid and insolvency proceedings. Bhasin can apply for bail again after twelve months.

Mumbai Metro Lines 2B and 9 will begin partial operations on April 3, enhancing connectivity across key suburban areas. Commuters can expect reduced traffic congestion and faster travel times. The new lines will link important residential and commercial hubs, marking a significant step in modernising Mumbais transport infrastructure.

Global central bankers face a challenge understanding how people and businesses are reacting to rising energy costs. They need to know if inflation expectations are increasing before raising interest rates. New tools are being used to fill data gaps. Policymakers are carefully assessing the situation, balancing data with judgment.

Gulf planning new pipeline to bypass Hormuz: Gulf countries are exploring new oil transport routes to bypass the Strait of Hormuz due to growing concerns over potential disruptions linked to Iran. Officials and industry leaders believe alternative pipelines and transport links are crucial for securing steady exports from the region.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan urged states to achieve 100% farmer registration for schemes within six months, emphasizing the need to curb fertilizer hoarding and black-marketing. He also stressed mandatory Aadhaar-linked registration and biometric authentication for MSP procurement of pulses and oilseeds, with direct DBT payments to farmers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged government officials to embrace the Karma Yogi spirit for a Viksit Bharat 2047, emphasizing duty, technology, and long-term planning. He highlighted the need for rapid economic growth, modern infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, stressing that individual transformation leads to institutional progress and improved governance for citizens.

A Delhi court has dismissed a criminal defamation complaint against Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The court described the complaint as 'valueless' and lacking merit. It ruled that no prima facie case was made out. The statements were considered part of political discourse and not defamatory towards the complainant. The court found no grounds to proceed further with the plea.

The Congress-led UDF has unveiled its manifesto for the Kerala Assembly polls. Key promises include free bus travel for women across the state. Welfare pensions will be increased to Rs 3,000 monthly. College-going girl students will receive Rs 1,000 per month. Families will get a Rs 25 lakh insurance scheme.

Kerala's ruling LDF has released its Assembly election manifesto. The party promises to eliminate absolute poverty and increase welfare pensions to Rs 3,000 monthly. The manifesto also focuses on youth employment through campus placements and skill training. Women's workforce participation aims for 50 percent. Development plans include attracting Rs 2 lakh crore investments and creating new industrial corridors.

Judicial officers were rescued in Malda, West Bengal, after protesters gheraoed them for hours. The demonstration occurred over the deletion of names from electoral rolls. Security forces used batons to disperse the crowd and ensure the safe evacuation of the officers. The protesters also blocked National Highway 12. The blockade ended after assurances were given regarding voter roll inclusions.

Ramayana teaser reviews: The teaser of Ramayana movie was unveiled today in which Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of Lord Rama has taken the internet by storm. Many netizens found the Ramayana teaser disappointing, saying there is too much use of AI. Some even compared it with Adipurush. Ramayana: Part One is scheduled to release in theatres in October 2026 ahead of Diwali.

CBSE Class 9-10 syllabus releasing today: CBSE is set to release the syllabus of Class 9 and 10 for the academic session 2026-27 today at 3 pm. Students, teachers, and other stakeholders can attend the session via the official YouTube link. The CBSE Class 9-10 syllabus 2026-27 can be accessed on cbseacademic.nic.in.

Shroud of Turin DNA Analysis: A genomic study published in Scientific Reports has revealed the presence of plant and human DNA lineages associated with the Indian subcontinent within the fibres of the Shroud of Turin. These findings suggest the cloth, long considered by many to be the burial shroud of Jesus Christ, may have been manufactured in India or transported through ancient trade routes like the Silk Road long before its recorded appearance in 14th-century Europe.

Qatar has suspended its visa-on-arrival facility for Pakistani nationals, requiring travelers to obtain visas in advance due to regional tensions. This move, also affecting Lebanese citizens, signals tighter entry checks across the Gulf, impacting business travelers and workers who relied on flexible travel options. The situation highlights growing scrutiny of Pakistani travelers in the region.

Israel's military said air defences responded to waves of Iranian missile fire early Thursday, including at least two attacks after US President Donald Trump delivered an address to the American public about the war. On Wednesday, as Jewish Israelis were preparing to celebrate the Passover holiday, emergency services said Iranian missile fire wounded 14 people, including an 11-year-old girl.

Cyrus Poonawalla bought Raja Ravi Varma's painting Yashoda and Krishna for Rs 167.2 crore. This sale broke the record for modern Indian art. The painting is a national treasure. Poonawalla plans to make it available for public viewing. This event marks a significant moment for Indian art. It highlights the growing value of Indian artworks.

Marie Curie, a Nobel laureate, championed selfless scientific pursuit, believing society should support 'dreamers' dedicated to discovery without personal profit. Her groundbreaking work in radioactivity, leading to medical advancements, highlights the profound impact of curiosity-driven research. Curie's legacy underscores the importance of nurturing intellectual passion for societal progress.

Redmi is launching the Note 15 SE 5G in India today, April 2, 2026. The Redmi Note 15 SE 5G stands out with a larger 5,800mAh battery, offering over 44 hours of usage along with 45W fast charging, making it more endurance-focused than the standard model and is expected to be priced under Rs 20,000.

Delhi Police's West District launched Operation Kavach 13.0, a 48-hour crackdown. The intensive drive led to over 200 arrests and numerous detentions. Police seized significant quantities of narcotics and illicit liquor. Actions were taken against gamblers and those violating arms and excise laws. The operation aimed to disrupt crime networks and enhance public safety across the district.

A tragic accident occurred in Kushinagar when a tractor trolley carrying devotees overturned into the Gandak canal. One person lost their life, and approximately 20 others sustained injuries. The devotees were en route to a fair when the incident took place. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident. The injured were transported to the hospital for medical attention.

India and the United States share a strong bond built on innovation and talent. People form a crucial link between the two nations. Over 300,000 Indian students are in the US, fostering a dynamic exchange of knowledge and skills. The Indian-origin community in the US, numbering six million, significantly contributes to technology, business, and academia.

Security forces apprehended three militants from different proscribed outfits in Manipur. These individuals are suspected of involvement in extortion activities. The operations also led to the recovery of over 2300 rounds of ammunition and explosives. The arrests and seizures occurred across Imphal West, Imphal East, and Thoubal districts, highlighting ongoing security efforts.

Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand, Hanuman Ashtak Lyrics: Hanuman Jayanti 2026 is being celebrated with devotion across India, with devotees reciting the Sundarkand and Hanuman Chalisa for peace and protection. The article provides the complete Hindi and English lyrics for Hanuman Ashtak and Sundarkand, enabling devotees to connect with the sacred verses and seek blessings.

Dinesh K Tripathi said the Indian Navy was minutes away from launching sea-based strikes on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor before Pakistan sought a halt to military action. Operation Sindoor was launched after the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and targeted terrorist bases in Pakistan through coordinated strikes by Indian forces. The Navy maintained a high state of readiness and aggressive deployment during the operation.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is scheduled for a long-planned visit to Washington next week. This comes after President Donald Trump criticized European allies, calling them paper tigers and expressing frustration over their refusal to send ships to the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also questioned the need for NATO, stating the U.S. might not require their support.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will present the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. This bill, already passed in the Rajya Sabha, proposes significant deputation quotas for senior positions within the CAPFs. Additionally, Mr. Shah will introduce the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, to establish Amaravati as the sole state capital.

Petrol, Diesel price today (April 2): There has been no change in the prices of petrol and diesel today, on April 2, 2026. This comes despite private fuel retailers Nayara and Shell hiking the prices of petrol and diesel amid the ongoing Middle East crisis. The government has ensured that the fuel rates will remain unchanged as of now.

U.S. President Donald Trump said in a televised address that the military had nearly achieved its objectives in the war with Iran and that the conflict could end soon, though strikes would continue for the next two to three weeks.

The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to impose 100% tariffs on drugmakers that haven't secured deals for lower U.S. prices. Several major pharmaceutical companies have already made pricing agreements or expanded U.S. operations to avoid these penalties. The plans are not finalized and may include exemptions for certain medicines.

Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin Yojana saw 68 lakh accounts closed for incomplete e-KYC. The deadline is now April 30. This scheme provides Rs 1,500 monthly to eligible women. The government is reviewing cases of ineligible beneficiaries. The scheme's budget allocation has also seen a reduction. Officials confirm the scheme will continue.

Interdiction means an official order or action that prevents something from happening. This term is used for bans on goods, restrictions on movement, and halting illegal activities. Authorities use interdiction for drug operations, travel restrictions, and emergency measures. It conveys authority, enforcement, and control. Using interdiction allows for precise reporting on law enforcement and policy decisions.

The Supreme Court heard arguments on President Trump's order restricting birthright citizenship. Justices questioned the constitutional and legal basis of the order. Trump attended the arguments, a rare presidential appearance. The court is expected to rule by summer. This case tests presidential executive power. Many countries grant birthright citizenship.

India has waived import duties on crucial chemicals like ammonium nitrate, methanol, and PVC for three months, starting April 2nd. This move aims to ease supply chains and potentially lower costs for various industries. The government has also exempted ammonium nitrate from the Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess during this period, offering further relief.

President Donald Trump is considering withdrawing the United States from NATO. This comes after European allies refused to send ships to the Strait of Hormuz. Experts question Trump's ability to act unilaterally. The NATO treaty allows withdrawal with a year's notice. However, US law now requires Senate approval. Trump has previously expressed strong criticism of the alliance.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has directly addressed the American people. He questions if the US truly prioritizes America First or serves as a proxy for Israel. Pezeshkian highlights historical grievances, including the 1953 coup. He asserts Iran has no malice towards Americans. The President urges the public to see past manufactured narratives about an Iranian threat.

Firozabad, India's Glass City, faces a crisis. War in the Middle East disrupts gas supply, halting glass furnaces and leaving thousands jobless. This energy crunch impacts India's manufacturing, from textiles to high tech. Shipping costs also surge, stranding containers and halting exports. Many businesses struggle to survive as production plummets.

Trump Speech: Donald Trump in his address to the nation said Americans dont need the Strait of Hormuz and that the countries who do must grab it and cherish it.

Weather in Delhi today: Delhi is likely to see partly cloudy skies today and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning for April 3 and 4. The IMD has sounded a yellow alert for Delhi on Sunday. Noida and Gurugram are also likely to witness rainfall on Friday and Saturday.

Indonesia earthquake today: A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Northern Maluku Sea off Ternate, triggering tsunami warnings for Indonesia and alerts across neighboring Southeast Asian nations. The quake's epicenter was located about 120 km from Ternate, with no immediate reports of injuries. Regional governments urged citizens to prepare for possible evacuations.

Trump news: President Donald Trump addressed the nation on the ongoing war with Iran. He stated Operation Epic Fury could conclude in two to three weeks. The US president highlighted significant damage to Iran's military and leadership. He also warned of further actions against Iran's infrastructure if a deal is not reached. The conflict has already impacted global oil prices.

Artemis II tracker: NASA's Artemis 2 carries three Americans and one Canadian astronauts. Artemis II is the opening shot of NASA's grand plans for a permanent moon base.