The Economic Times

Bollywood and television production circles are feeling financial pressure. Workers behind the scenes are seeing pay cuts and limited work. Budgets are tighter, and projects are delayed. This impacts many professionals in Mumbai. Some workers are depleting savings or returning to hometowns. Freelancers face delayed payments. The industry hopes for recovery amid calls for structural changes.

Microsoft's AI chief, Mustafa Suleyman has sounded an alarm that many white-collar jobs, including accounting, legal, marketing, and project management, could be automated within 12-18 months. He predicts AI will achieve human-level performance on most professional tasks, impacting computer-based roles significantly. This rapid advancement signals a major shift in the workforce.

India's edible oil imports increased by 3 per cent in the last fiscal year owing significant to a boost from duty-free shipments from Nepal. Nepal's edible oil exports to India more than doubled. India relies heavily on foreign supplies for edible oils.

Australia is grappling with a significant diphtheria outbreak, with cases spreading across multiple states and a suspected first death under investigation. Health authorities are urging vigilance for symptoms and emphasizing the importance of vaccination. This rare resurgence marks a serious public health concern for the nation. If investigators confirm the death was caused by diphtheria, it would mark Australias first fatality from the infectious disease since 2018.

Cockroach Janata Party Website: A new online political group, the Cockroach Janta Party, is rapidly gaining followers on Indian social media. Founded by Abhijeet Dipke, the party uses satire and memes to express youth frustration. It addresses issues like unemployment and exam controversies. Prominent figures have engaged with the party online.

A heartwarming video of a Blinkit delivery executive has gone viral. The man was seen practicing cricket shots with a bat during his delivery routine. He then lovingly kissed the bat before continuing his work. The clip has touched thousands online, sparking conversations about dreams and passions.

An inquiry committee has submitted its report to the Lok Sabha Speaker regarding allegations against Justice Yashwant Varma. The report concerns the alleged discovery of unaccounted cash at his official residence. This report will be presented to Parliament soon. Justice Varma recently resigned as a judge, making removal proceedings infructuous. The committee's work proceeded despite his resignation.

From courtroom thrillers and reality drama to animated adventures and sci-fi mysteries, this weeks OTT lineup has something for every binge-watcher. Platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, JioHotstar, Apple TV+ and ZEE5 are bringing fresh movies and series packed with action, suspense, comedy and drama this week.

Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans have sealed their spots in the IPL 2026 playoffs, joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who were the first team to qualify. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings are staring at elimination after suffering their seventh defeat of the season. Punjab Kings remain in contention but now depend on other match results to keep their playoff hopes alive, while Rajasthan Royals still have two games left to revive their campaign.

New CCTV footage reveals Twisha Sharma walking alone towards her home's terrace before being found unconscious. Her husband, Samarth Singh, is absconding. His family denies dowry harassment claims, stating Twisha had psychiatric issues and substance abuse. Police are investigating dowry harassment and abetment to suicide charges.

A tourist died after two captive elephants clashed at Karnataka's Dubare Elephant Camp. Following the fatal incident, authorities have imposed strict new rules, including a 100-foot distance for tourists and a ban on close-range interactions like bathing and feeding.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to modify its November 2025 order to remove stray dogs from public institutions like hospitals, schools, colleges, bus stations and railway stations.

Big changes take time. Success, failure, and habits are built gradually. Just as a river needs many cold days to freeze deep, significant achievements require sustained hard work and discipline. Instant results are often an illusion. This ancient Chinese wisdom emphasizes patience and the power of consistent daily actions for lasting outcomes.

The Pentagon has put the brakes on America's involvement in a historic defense panel with Canada that traces back to World War II. Officials indicate that Canadas slow advancement on defense commitments prompted this change. This decision is occurring amid swirling trade disagreements and President Trumps persistent requests for allied countries to bolster their defense budgets.

The Ministry of Finance has strongly refuted social media rumors about plans to issue gold bonds against temple gold reserves. The government states there is no proposal to monetise gold held by religious institutions. It also dismissed claims about temple structure gold being treated as strategic reserves.

The NEET-UG 2026 examination was cancelled due to paper leak allegations, causing widespread panic among lakhs of medical aspirants. Educator Khan Sir's emotional reaction highlighted the immense pressure and sacrifice involved, resonating with students and parents. The controversy underscores the emotional toll of high-stakes exams and the critical need for parental emotional support during academic crises.

Quote of the day by Khalil Gibran: Khalil Gibran, a poet and philosopher, blended Eastern spirituality with Western style, inspiring readers globally. His quote, Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but from wanting to control it, highlights the burden of seeking absolute control. Gibran's work emphasizes inner growth, acceptance of life's dualities, and finding peace through present action rather than future manipulation.

Divya Mittal, an IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore alumna, has sparked a nationwide conversation. She points out that India's top educational institutions teach how to succeed academically but fail to equip students with essential life skills. Mittal emphasizes the need for emotional regulation, deep communication, critical thinking, and financial literacy.

Heavy rains have caused waterlogging and traffic jams in Karnataka's Bengaluru Rural and Chikkaballapur districts. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department forecasts hot and humid weather for Odisha and potential heatwaves in coastal Andhra Pradesh. Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu are expected to receive rainfall, with Karnataka possibly experiencing hailstorms. Northwest India will remain dry, leading to rising temperatures.

CSBE Class 12 revaluation 2026: CBSE has initiated the Class 12 re-evaluation and verification process for 2026 following concerns over lower-than-expected marks and the new On-Screen Marking system. Students can apply for scanned answer sheets and verification from May 19, with reduced fees for photocopies and verification, offering a more accessible review process.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Hanoi, Vietnam. He paid tribute to Ho Chi Minh on his birth anniversary. Singh held important discussions to boost defence cooperation and strategic ties between India and Vietnam. The visit also included talks on potential BrahMos missile system supply. This trip is part of a larger tour to enhance India's Indo-Pacific partnerships.

BGMI 4.4 update release date and time: Battlegrounds Mobile India's 4.4 update, featuring the Hero's Crown mode, is rolling out on May 20th for Android and iOS. The update introduces ancient temple battlegrounds, flying abilities, and new combat trials like Spartan's, Icarus', and Achilles' Trials, promising significant gameplay changes and boss fights.

Three coaches of the Ujjaini Express derailed near Rishikesh. The incident occurred during a shunting movement. The train was empty and no injuries were reported. Rescue and restoration operations were launched immediately. Cranes and heavy machinery were deployed to clear the damaged coaches. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the derailment.

India reiterated its firm stance on human rights protection, maintaining its belief in democracy and the country's constitution after a Norwegian newspaper commentator's controversial disruption during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's press statement with Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Store.

Vladimir Putin is visiting China this week for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, days after U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his trip to Beijing.

Yesterday IPL Match winner CSK vs SRH: Sunrisers Hyderabad secured their IPL 2026 playoff spot by defeating Chennai Super Kings by five wickets at Chepauk. Ishan Kishan's stellar 70 guided SRH in a tense chase of 181. Pat Cummins' bowling prowess was instrumental in restricting CSK. This victory places SRH alongside Gujarat Titans in the playoffs, with RCB already qualified.

America is increasing safety measures against Ebola. Travelers from affected regions will be screened. Visa services are temporarily stopped. The World Health Organization declared the outbreak an international health emergency. One American in Congo contracted the virus. Efforts are underway to bring them to Germany for treatment.

Bangalore rain update: Karnataka, including Bengaluru, faces a heavy spell of rain with hailstorms predicted. A yellow alert is issued for Bengaluru, warning of thunderstorms and gusty winds until Thursday. Heavy downpours have already caused waterlogging and traffic chaos. Several districts are under alert for intense weather, with monsoon expected by early June.

President Donald Trump is expanding access to affordable medicines. The government website TrumpRx.gov will now list over 600 generic drugs. This includes common treatments for cholesterol and diabetes. The initiative aims to lower prescription drug costs for Americans. Prices will be integrated from various sources. This move seeks to provide more options for consumers buying medicines without insurance.

Petrol, Diesel prices today: Fuel prices have seen another surge, with petrol and diesel rates increasing by approximately 90 paise per litre. This marks the second hike in under a week, pushing petrol prices in Delhi to Rs 98.64 and diesel to Rs 91.58. The hike in fuel prices comes as the world faces an energy crisis amid the West Asia conflict.

Standard Chartered on Tuesday raised its profitability target, aiming for a return on tangible equity of more than 15% by 2028 and about 18% by 2030, after achieving its earlier 2026 targets ahead of schedule.

The United States Department of State has approved possible sales of support services and related equipment for Indias AH-64E Apache helicopters and M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzer artillery systems under the Foreign Military Sales programme.

Abraham Maslow's quote highlights how people use familiar ideas for all problems. This tendency, where one tool shapes perception, is still relevant today. It warns against narrow thinking and encourages adaptability. Maslow's work focused on human potential and growth. His simple metaphor remains powerful, reminding us to broaden our understanding of the world.

Two teenage gunmen opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego in California on Monday, killing three men outside the mosque, including a security guard, before the suspects were later found dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds, police said.

US authorities have dropped criminal charges against Gautam Adani and Adani Group executives. This follows a 19-month investigation. The conglomerate also settled civil sanctions charges with the US Treasury Department for $275 million. These developments open new avenues for Adani Group businesses to raise funds and invest in the US. The group faced significant challenges during the investigation period.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran will address business concerns, including Air India losses and new ventures, at an upcoming board meeting. This comes as Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata raised questions, deferring a decision on Chandrasekaran's reappointment for a third term. The meeting is crucial for formal approval amidst ongoing discussions about Tata Sons' unlisted status.

Jewish Proverb of the Day: A Jewish proverb illustrates how familiarity can lead to overlooking life's greatest blessings, comparing it to those living near a waterfall who eventually cease to hear its roar. This wisdom highlights the human tendency to take for granted relationships, opportunities, and everyday wonders, urging readers to cultivate awareness and gratitude before these invaluable gifts fade from notice.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos stated he is no longer in direct contact with Nancy Guthrie's family regarding her disappearance, with the FBI now handling communications. Nanos expressed confidence the case, over 100 days old, is nearing a breakthrough, potentially through digital evidence and DNA analysis.

Viktor Frankl's words offer enduring hope. He survived Nazi concentration camps, losing his family. Even in extreme hardship, he found that people could choose their inner response. This profound insight, born from immense pain, highlights that true freedom lies in our attitude, not external circumstances. His message continues to resonate globally.

Albert Einstein's enduring quote, If you can't explain it to a six year old, you don't understand it yourself, highlights that true intelligence lies in simplifying complex ideas. This philosophy underscores the importance of clarity and intellectual honesty, challenging the tendency to use jargon to appear knowledgeable.

Bitcoin (BTC USD) shipping insurance Iran explained: Iran is reportedly launching a bitcoin-backed maritime insurance service, Hormuz Safe, for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative, amid heightened US-Iran tensions and restricted shipping, aims to provide cryptographically verifiable policies settled in Bitcoin, potentially generating significant revenue.

African proverb of the day highlights how deception may create early attraction but cannot sustain real relationships. The proverb from the Comoros explains the gap between promises and real effort. It explores lessons about trust, commitment, survival, and honesty. The story explains meaning, relevance, and teachings. It also connects the proverb with modern relationships and shares other inspiring sayings that continue to guide people in daily life.

Salman Khan clarified his recent social media post about loneliness, assuring fans he is not alone due to his family, friends, and supporters. The actor explained he sometimes prefers personal time, a sentiment that even concerned his mother. His clarification followed widespread speculation after a cryptic shirtless photo.

A California jury has rejected Elon Musk's lawsuit against Sam Altman and OpenAI. Musk claimed OpenAI abandoned its nonprofit mission for profit. The jury dismissed his claims as untimely. This ruling is a significant victory for OpenAI amidst its rapid growth in the AI race. Musk's legal team reserves the right to appeal the decision.

Truckers face hardship on NH-2 in Manipur as Kukis and Nagas impose a bandh and economic blockade. The protest stems from missing persons following a May 13 ambush. Both communities accuse each other of holding members captive. The United Naga Council announced an indefinite blockade, while Kuki Inpi Manipur extended its shutdown. Relief efforts are underway for stranded drivers.