The Economic Times

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has directed departments to prepare for the upcoming NITI Aayog meeting on June 11, a departure from Mamata Banerjee's previous non-participation. Draft proposals are due by June 5. Additionally, the Chief Minister announced the resumption of the 100-day work scheme, known as GRAM, across all districts except South 24 Pargana and Murshidabad.

Tripura government has launched an austerity drive. All government offices will now be closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Working hours on weekdays are extended. These steps aim to reduce electricity and fuel consumption. The government is also promoting virtual meetings and the use of electric and CNG vehicles. These measures follow Prime Minister Modi's appeal for fuel conservation.

Chinese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of The man is the head of the family, but the woman is the neck that turns the head. The saying reflects how leadership within a family is often shaped not only by visible authority, but also by guidance, emotional intelligence, wisdom, and quiet influence. It suggests that while one person may appear to lead openly, important decisions and direction are often influenced by the support, understanding, and strength of another partner behind the sc

Major infrastructure projects in India have seen significant cost overruns. Projects valued at 150 crore or more have collectively exceeded their original budgets by 5.6 lakh crore. The total revised cost for 1,981 projects now stands at 42.8 lakh crore. Despite these overruns, expenditure on these projects indicates steady implementation progress.

Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing will visit India this Sunday. This marks his first foreign trip since becoming President in April. The visit underscores Myanmar's view of India as a key partner for development, business, and regional security. India sees this as an opportunity to address cross-border concerns and revive connectivity projects.

Abraham Accords: Trump just called six Muslim nations to sign the Abraham Accords live, out loud, tied to an Iran nuclear deal. Pakistan said no. The rest went silent. This is the biggest Middle East normalization push since 2020. And the world is watching to see if it cracks or holds.

America and Iran are close to a deal to end their war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations are progressing well, with a potential agreement on ending the conflict and allowing global shipping. Iran would give up its enriched uranium stockpile. Sanctions relief and frozen funds would be negotiated. The deal aims to restore regional stability and economic activity.

Franois de La Rochefoucauld's timeless quote, Absence diminishes small loves and increases great ones, as the wind blows out the candle and fans the bonfire, reveals how distance tests the strength of relationships. His observation, born from personal hardship, highlights that true affection endures and often deepens when faced with separation, while superficial connections fade.

The psychology behind people who resist even the smallest changes suggests the behavior is often tied to anxiety management, emotional security and the brains natural preference for predictability and routine.

The Department of Consumer Affairs is looking into standard pack sizes for cooking oils. Industry bodies raised concerns about many different package sizes confusing consumers. This makes comparing prices difficult. The department met with major edible oil associations. They discussed how to make price comparisons easier. This move aims to improve transparency and fair trade practices for consumers.

Haryana government has released new rules for ex-servicemen reservation in government jobs. The policy clarifies eligibility and aims to prevent confusion. It defines ex-servicemen comprehensively and emphasizes Haryana domicile. Strict conditions apply for those discharged due to misconduct. Serving military personnel can apply if nearing completion of service.

Quote of the day by Euripides: Ancient Greek playwright Euripides believed youth is the best time to be rich or poor. Wealth in youth offers freedom and opportunity. Hardship teaches resilience and strength. Modern youth face pressure to succeed quickly. Euripides' words remind us that growth comes from both success and struggle.

Persian Proverb of the day: Somewhere between ancient satire and modern social commentary exists a proverb that feels surprisingly suited to the Instagram age. The saying, often associated with Persian storytelling traditions that valued wit as much as wisdom, carries a playful but unmistakable sting.

Ancient philosopher Plutarch's timeless quote, Know how to listen, and you will profit even from those who talk badly, offers a profound lesson for modern life. It emphasizes that true wisdom lies in learning from every conversation, even unpleasant ones, by remaining open and controlling one's ego. This approach allows for personal growth and insight, regardless of the speaker's quality.

Quote of the day: The quote extends far beyond romantic relationships. In friendships, honesty often becomes the foundation of lasting connection. In workplaces, open communication helps prevent resentment and misunderstanding. Even personal growth requires the courage to confront uncomfortable truths about oneself.

Manipur Police has received 477 new vehicles, including bulletproof models, to boost its operational strength. This comes as the state grapples with ethnic violence and a hostage crisis. The new fleet aims to improve mobility and response times, especially in hill districts.

Quote of the day by Thomas Paine: Thomas Paine's quote highlights the futility of arguing with those who reject reason and empathy. He likened such discussions to administering medicine to the dead, emphasizing that productive conversations require mutual respect and a willingness to listen.

Retirement investors are rapidly searching for 401(k) to gold IRA rollover strategies as economic uncertainty grows across the United States. Rising inflation, volatile stock markets, and global tensions are reshaping retirement planning in 2026. Many Americans now want physical gold IRA protection instead of relying only on traditional 401(k) investments. Financial experts say a self-directed gold IRA rollover can help diversify retirement savings while preserving long-term wealth stability.

Armenia is bolstering its defence ties with India, seeking robust security against Azerbaijan's growing threats, bolstered by Pakistan and Trkiye. This strategic shift involves significant Indian defence procurements, including advanced missile systems and radars, alongside expanded joint training initiatives. New Delhi is emerging as a crucial defence partner for Yerevan, enhancing regional stability.

Philosopher Immanuel Kant defined marriage as the lifelong possession of each other's sexual attributes. This 18th-century view contrasts sharply with modern ideas of love and equality. Kant's perspective, rooted in ethics and duty, aimed to protect dignity within relationships. His statement remains relevant, prompting discussions on the true meaning of marriage and its evolution over centuries.

Ukrainian Proverb of the Day: Blending satire, psychology and cultural history, the proverb examines why this centuries-old proverb still feels strikingly modern in an era shaped by female leadership, creativity and unapologetic self-expression.

Bhutan's Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay visited Guwahati. Assam's Governor and Chief Minister welcomed him. Discussions focused on boosting ties between India and Bhutan. Cooperation for the Northeast region was a key point. A cultural evening showcased Assam's heritage. The visit aims to deepen existing bonds and enhance collaboration across various sectors.

Tata Sons board meets Tuesday. Discussions will focus on the group's loss-making companies. Reports indicate significant losses in unlisted businesses. Chairman N Chandrasekaran's reappointment is not expected. Noel Tata is reportedly concerned about mounting losses.

India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri spoke with Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht Ravanchi. Discussions covered regional developments and bilateral cooperation. This follows US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement on progress in US-Iran talks. The Strait of Hormuz reopening is a key focus. Iran's nuclear program and control over the strait remain sticking points.

Memorial Day 2026 holiday's origins can be traced to the American Civil War, which killed more than 600,000 service members, Union and Confederate, between 1861 and 1865.

The Iranian Consulate in Hyderabad has criticized US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to the Taj Mahal. They stated the monument was built by Iranian architects. The Consulate accused the US government of threatening Iranian civilization. Rubio visited the Taj Mahal with his wife during his India trip.

Trumps push to expand the Abraham Accords has placed Pakistan in a sharp diplomatic bind, according to the report. After recent US engagement that elevated Islamabads profile and strengthened ties with its military leadership, Washington is now urging Pakistan and other Muslim-majority countries to normalise relations with Israel.

India is now Sri Lanka's second-largest export market, overtaking the United Kingdom. This shift occurred between January and April of this year. The United States remains the top destination for Sri Lankan exports. Sri Lanka's overall exports saw growth in April, driven by merchandise and services. Coconut products and IT services performed well.

The Kalpana Chawla quote of the day still inspires millions chasing dreams, success, and personal growth worldwide. Her powerful words on vision, courage, and perseverance reveal that real success grows through patience and fearless action. In todays pressure-driven world, the Kalpana Chawla inspirational quote gives fresh meaning to dream motivation, hard work, and self-belief. It reminds readers that success never arrives instantly. People build it slowly through resilience, clarity, and the c

India's largest biomedical event, 'Medical Innovations Patent Mitra: Innovators-to-Industry Connect', successfully took place in New Delhi. The Indian Council of Medical Research facilitated the transfer of 41 public health technologies to industry partners. This initiative aims to bring indigenous biomedical research to the public, strengthening India's healthcare sector and fostering innovation for a developed India.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has moved the Delhi High Court. He is challenging the blocking of his party's X account. Dipke alleges the action was taken on national security grounds. He also claims the party's social media accounts were hacked before suspension. The party gained traction with satirical content.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees has banned actor Ranveer Singh. This follows his exit from Farhan Akhtar's 'Don 3'. The producers alleged significant disruption and financial losses. FWICE stated no member will work with Singh until the dispute is resolved. This decision impacts all film departments. The federation urged producers to support the directive.

Quote of the day by Herodotus: The powerful Herodotus quote, Of all mens miseries the bitterest is this, still shapes modern wisdom discussions today. This timeless quote about control, human suffering, knowledge, and life truth explains a deep emotional struggle people silently carry daily. People now know more through news, technology, and constant information. That painful gap gives this Herodotus quote lasting meaning. The quote does not offer false motivation. It offers rare honesty.

US President Donald Trump is pushing for more nations to join the Abraham Accords. This initiative aims to normalize relations between Israel and Arab countries. Pakistan faces a dilemma, balancing its ties with Gulf nations and its long-standing stance on the Palestinian issue. The accords offer economic and social benefits, but Pakistan's domestic sensitivities create a complex situation.

Delhi Gymkhana Club employees received assurances their jobs are secure. The club management stated it will not close immediately. This comes after the government directed the club to vacate its Lutyens' Delhi premises by June 5. Employees expressed anxiety over their livelihoods. Legal and administrative efforts are underway to protect staff interests. The club is challenging the directive in court.