The Economic Times

Seva Teerth new PMO: PM Modi unveiled the plaque of Seva Teerth at the new complex -- the name inscribed in Devanagari script on the wall of the complex. Below it is the motto 'Nagrik Devo Bhava' (citizen is akin to God).

In a groundbreaking move, Kerala has introduced its inaugural Urban Policy, setting the stage for sustainable urban growth as the state anticipates reaching an 80% urbanization rate by 2050. The policy emphasizes smart planning and transparent governance, aiming for holistic urban development. It aspires to uplift marginalized communities and improve city infrastructures, fostering a more equitable society.

Muhammad Ali was a legendary boxer, the first to win the heavyweight championship three times. His quote, It isn't the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it's the pebble in your shoe, highlights how small, persistent distractions can be more draining than major challenges, a lesson relevant in work, relationships, and personal growth.

Four laborers, including three women, died in Rajasthan's Bhilwara district after allegedly consuming a toxic chemical mistaken for liquor. The incident occurred late Thursday night in Aloli village, with one person still in critical condition. Police have collected samples for testing as investigations continue.

Mumbai Cherry Blossom 2026: Every February, a 12-kilometer stretch of the Eastern Express Highway (EEH) in Vikhroli undergoes a magical transformation, as hundreds of Pink Trumpet trees (Tabebuia rosea) burst into vibrant, cotton-candy blooms. Often called the citys desi cherry blossoms, these trees have become a seasonal cultural landmark for photographers, commuters, and couples alike. However

The Australian sharemarket saw a dip on Friday, February 13, 2026, but concluded its best week in ten months. Strong company earnings, especially from banks, propelled the benchmark towards record territory. Utilities sector performed well, while financials and healthcare stocks experienced declines. Major companies like Austal and Nick Scali saw significant drops.

Opposition leaders of Tamil Nadu slam Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for his early morning declaration of a Rs 5,000 payout aimed at women beneficiaries. They termed it as a sign of election fatigue and fear of imminent defeat in the upcoming 2026 Assemblt polls.

Derek O'Brien, a TMC Rajya Sabha MP, has urged the government to implement a universal basic minimum wage. He highlighted unemployment among youth and stagnant wages for employed individuals. O'Brien proposed 'UMANG', a legally binding national minimum wage to boost consumption and alleviate poverty across all sectors, including unorganised and gig workers.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by the late Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman, claimed victory in the general elections to replace the interim administration, which took charge after the collapse of the Awami League regime in August 2024.

A new scientific review highlights a simple seated movement, lifting heels repeatedly, that can significantly reduce post-meal sugar spikes. This low-cost solution may help manage type 2 diabetes, which is rising in India, especially among younger adults with sedentary lifestyles.

President Trump is reportedly planning to reduce some tariffs on steel and aluminum. Officials believe these tariffs are increasing prices for everyday items. This move comes as consumer costs are a major concern for voters ahead of the midterm elections. The administration is reviewing affected products for potential exemptions and more targeted national security reviews.

Telangana Municipal Election 2026 Result: Congress is set to sweep the municipal elections in Telangana and it has secured 240 wards as of 1 pm. BRS has fared well and it secured the second position. The BJP has struggled to keep the pace in the local body polls and in the early rounds of counting, the BJP alleged discrepancies at several centres.

The Bench of Justice Subramonium Prasad of Delhi High Court on Friday directed that the civil defamation suit filed by Priya Sachdeva Kapur against Mandhira Kapur Smith and a podcaster be listed before the same judge who is hearing the main suit relating to the family dispute.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) expressed gratitude to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The party thanked Modi for acknowledging the people's verdict in Bangladesh's general elections. BNP anticipates stronger relations between the two nations under their new government. Prime Minister Modi had congratulated Tarique Rahman on the BNP's victory.

A significant earthquake, measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale, has just hit the Balochistan region of Pakistan. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the tremor, indicating a notable seismic event in the area. Further details regarding the impact and any potential damage are still emerging.

Honasa Consumer is set to outpace market predictions for fiscal 2027, driven by a robust resurgence of its beloved Mamaearth brand. The company is strategically targeting acquisitions in innovative product lines to diversify its offerings. Honasa is optimistic about achieving high-teen percentage revenue growth in the upcoming fiscal year.

In a dramatic escalation, North Korea has threatened of terrible response to any future drone activities from South Korea. As Seoul probes a recent drone episode, officials promise to enhance security measures. This intensifying tension may jeopardize vital diplomatic initiatives and the upcoming party congress in North Korea.

Nomura has revised its outlook, now anticipating no interest rate cut by India's central bank in April. This shift stems from projected inflation increases and existing stealth easing measures. The Reserve Bank of India's policy corridor, with the call rate near 5%, suggests a pause is likely, despite new inflation data.

Shanaya Kapoor, daughter of Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor, started her journey in Bollywood by working as an assistant director on the film Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl. She made her acting debut with Vikrant Massey in Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan but the movie failed to deliver at the box office. Today, her second movie Tu Yaa Main has hit the theatres and is set to clash with Shahid Kapoor's O Romeo.

Israel is taking steps to help settlers acquire land and increase its authority in Palestinian self-rule areas. These actions are seen as a blow to the two-state solution, a vision for peace backed by world powers. The conflict's origins trace back to the partition of Palestine. Obstacles like settlement expansion and core issue disagreements persist.

CIA China military recruitment video: The CIA released a recruitment video targeting Chinese military officials, capitalizing on potential disillusionment following President Xi Jinping's purges. The video depicts a fictional officer disillusioned by the removal of qualified leaders, aiming to attract informants. This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance intelligence collection on China.

Noida Road Accident: A software engineer is battling critical brain injuries after his motorcycle collided with a stray bull in Noidas Sector 168. The incident highlights the persistent danger posed by free-roaming cattle on city roads. Authorities are being urged to strengthen enforcement and improve infrastructure to prevent such accidents, as the recurring problem continues to put commuters at serious daily risk.

Mahashivratri 2026: Maha Shivaratri 2026 arrives on February 15th. This sacred festival honors Lord Shiva with night-long worship, fasting, and prayers. Devotees will perform Rudrabhishek, a ritual seeking blessings for health and prosperity. The night offers a chance for spiritual purification and inner transformation. Special puja timings are detailed for this auspicious occasion.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday announced that Rs 617.98 crore has been approved for 10 road development projects in Assam under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) scheme, along with Rs 129.74 crore for 16 bridge projects under the CRIF Setu Bandhan scheme.

Sonys February 12, 2026, State of Play delivered a nostalgic punch and a glimpse into the future of gaming. The showstopper was the double-reveal for the God of War franchise: a ground-up remake of the original Greek Trilogy is in early development, while a brand-new 2D action-platformer, God of War: Sons of Sparta, was shadow-dropped and is available to play right now. Other major headlines included the announcement of a John Wick game featuring Keanu Reeves, the sequel Kena: Scars of Kosmora,

Zimbabwe faces a major setback as veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor is out of the T20 World Cup. Taylor sustained an injury during a group match earlier this week. He retired hurt after scoring 31 runs against Oman. The exact nature of his injury remains unclear. Captain Sikandar Raza confirmed Taylor's absence.

Playback singer Dhvani Bhanushali follows a disciplined Pilates routine to maintain strength, flexibility, and core stability, supporting overall fitness, wellness, and physical balance essential for her active lifestyle.

Opposition MPs protested demanding Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri's resignation. This follows Rahul Gandhi's claims of Puri's links to Jeffrey Epstein files. Puri refuted the allegations, calling them baseless and stating any contact was official and unrelated to abuse claims. The minister highlighted his service and contrasted it with Gandhi's actions.

Counting is underway for Telangana Municipal elections. The ruling Congress party is currently leading over the BRS and BJP. Results from 2,582 wards in 116 municipalities are being tallied. This election outcome is seen as a key indicator of popularity for all parties. Over 73 percent of voters participated. Security is tight at counting centers across the state.

Indian opener Abhishek Sharma is expected to be fit for the T20 clash against Pakistan on Sunday. Sharma missed the game against Namibia due to a stomach infection. Spinner Varun Chakravarthy stated Sharma is recovering well and has resumed practice. His readiness will be assessed during a training session in Colombo. India remains unbeaten in the tournament.

The multilateral economic cooperation system that underpinned the creation of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund at the end of World War II has come under pressure amid a backlash against globalization in the Trump era.

Yami Gautams suit wardrobe proves elegance doesnt need excess, just refined silhouettes, calming colors, and effortless confidence.

Mahashivratri 2026: Mahashivratri 2026 will be observed on February 15, Sunday. Different zodiac signs must donate, perform puja and do remedies to please Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri. While Geminis must offer ganga water with honey, Libras must perform abhishek with milk, water, and perfume. Leos must perform abhishek with saffron-infused water

Dubey earlier wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urging the House to constitute a dedicated Parliamentary Inquiry Committee to investigate Rahul Gandhi's unethical conduct following his recent speech in Parliament.

India's PM Modi signaled a diplomatic shift towards Bangladesh Nationalist Party's Tarique Rahman before his election win. Rahman, now poised to be PM, champions an economy-based foreign policy and Bangladesh First approach, prioritizing national interests. This marks a new phase in Dhaka-New Delhi relations, moving towards mutual respect and equality over dependency.

Rashami Desai consistently stuns with her impeccable fashion sense. Let's explore her mesmerizing wardrobe that showcases elegance, boldness, and contemporary style in every look.

Tamil Nadus Chief Minister M K Stalin has recently distributed Rs 5,000 to a remarkable 1.31 crore women through the Kalaignar Women's Entitlement scheme. With a keen eye on the forthcoming Assembly elections, he has promised to boost the monthly allowance to Rs 2,000 for beneficiaries if his DMK party wins.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has accused Rahul Gandhi of damaging India's image. Scindia stated that Gandhi's constant criticism on every platform will not benefit Congress or himself. He highlighted India's progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi had alleged that Modi sold out the country and farmers through an India-US trade deal, claiming a 'chokehold' by Donald Trump.

Soft pastels, delicate lace, and subtle embroidery define Lisas spring looks. Her Sher Singh collaboration blends global minimalism with Indian details, styled effortlessly using boots and structured layers.

O Romeo is releasing today in theatres, and the movie has brought back attention to real Mumbai gangster Hussain Ustar, who refused to bow to Dawood Ibrahim. In the movie, Shahid Kapoor plays the role of Hussain Ustar,a and the movie O'Romeo is based on the life of Hussain Ustara and Sapna didi, who were both on a mission to kill Dawood Ibrahim.

Angus Taylor has been elected the new leader of the Liberal Party. He secured victory over Sussan Ley in a partyroom vote. Following the result, Ley announced her resignation from parliament. Taylor's election marks a significant shift for the party. He has outlined his vision for an Australia-first approach. Ley's departure will trigger a by-election in her seat.

Tarique Rahman, heir to a powerful dynasty, is poised to lead Bangladesh after his party's decisive election victory. Returning from 17 years of exile, Rahman, who faced corruption charges and a life sentence, now aims to steer the nation of 170 million towards stability and reform.

McDonald's Australia is extending its breakfast service starting February 13, 2026. This change follows a review of their breakfast operations. Additionally, a new limited-edition Honey Sriracha Big Brekkie Range is being introduced. This range includes a burger, McMuffin, and McWrap with a sweet and spicy flavour. Delivery orders must be placed before 10:30 AM.

In January alone, the volume of outbound mergers and acquisitions from Greater China approached $12 billion, the most for the first month of a year since 2017. The shopping list included high-profile names like German sports brand Puma SE and Canadian miner Allied Gold Corp.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Tarique Rahman on the BNP's decisive victory in Bangladesh's parliamentary elections. Modi affirmed India's continued support for a democratic Bangladesh and expressed eagerness to collaborate on shared development goals. The BNP secured a clear majority, marking a significant political shift in Dhaka.