The Economic Times

Kerala government employees will enjoy a double holiday next week. May 27 and May 28 are now declared holidays for Bakrid. This decision grants a two-day break in the middle of the week. All government offices, public sector undertakings, and educational institutions will observe the holiday. This follows a similar situation last year regarding the Bakrid holiday date.

For India to leverage its Free Trade Agreements effectively, a paradigm shift in strategy is imperative. Experts caution that the disparity between secured market access and the realization of exports is widening.

US-Iran war: Tehran has rejected remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Iran states US sanctions have held the global energy market hostage. It asserts its nuclear program is peaceful and under IAEA supervision. Iran also blames US and Zionist regime actions for maritime security threats. The nation stands ready to respond to any aggression.

The Indian Air Force has opened applications for AFCAT 2 2026, announcing 379 officer vacancies across Flying and Ground Duty branches. Aspiring candidates can apply online from May 20 to June 19, 2026. The selection involves a written test, AFSB interview, and medicals, with training commencing July 2027. Thoroughly review the official notification for eligibility.

A private organisation has honoured twelve Members of Parliament and four parliamentary committees with Sansad Ratna Awards. These awards recognise outstanding performance in Parliament. Several prominent MPs and committees have been selected for their contributions. The awards celebrate dedication and effectiveness in legislative work.

Hull Heads shark attack: A 39-year-old man has died after a shark attack near Hull Heads in Far North Queensland. Emergency services responded to reports of the incident at the Hull River boat ramp. The man had been fishing offshore when he sustained fatal injuries.

An Indian woman's viral video reveals how common services in India are costly or unavailable in the UK. She points out differences in delivery, domestic help, and repair services. Many Indians abroad relate to these observations. The video sparks discussion on the convenience of urban Indian life. These conveniences are often underestimated until people move overseas.

A Google employee in Bengaluru highlighted the city's severe traffic woes, taking 45 minutes to travel just 4 kilometers. He questioned where his high taxes are going, given the poor infrastructure and frustrating commutes. His viral video resonated with many, sparking discussions about urban planning and the daily struggles of lakhs of commuters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modis May 2026 visit to Norway the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years upgraded bilateral ties into a Green Strategic Partnership focused on technology, energy, defence, innovation and sustainability.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar revealed significant headway in U.S.-Iran talks. This development followed a crucial telephone call involving leaders from Pakistan and several West Asian nations. The discussions aimed at achieving regional peace and a diplomatic resolution. Pakistan has actively supported these peace efforts. The negotiations signal a positive step towards a lasting outcome, emphasizing dialogue over conflict.

The Gujarat Food Safety Department seized more than 3,500 kilograms of allegedly adulterated fennel seeds from Ganapati Cleaning Factory in Unjha during a recent raid. Officials claimed the saunf had been mixed with a non-edible green chemical dye to enhance its appearance before being sold in the market. Authorities also alleged that the factory was operating without a valid FSSAI licence. Samples of the seized products and colouring agents have been sent for laboratory testing, while officials

IPL Match Today : MI vs RR Pitch Report: Mumbai Indians will host Rajasthan Royals in a crucial IPL 2026 playoff decider on Sunday, May 24. Rajasthan Royals, still in contention, can secure a playoff spot with a win, regardless of other results. The Wankhede pitch is expected to favor batters, with hot and humid conditions anticipated.

A wedding in Azamgarh was disrupted when a woman arrived with police, claiming a long-term relationship with the groom and a promise of marriage. Despite her plea, rituals reportedly concluded, leading to the couple's hasty departure amid chaos and stone-pelting. Five individuals were detained as investigations continue into the dramatic incident.

Delhi's Lajpat Nagar now offers a unique service where shoppers can hire assistants for 149 per hour to manage bags, queues, and navigation. This initiative, born from personal market experiences, aims to ease the physical strain of crowded shopping trips. The service, CarryMen, provides practical help, especially for the elderly and pregnant women, enhancing the overall shopping comfort.

A new giant marine reptile, Tylosaurus Rex, has been discovered. Fossils found in Texas reveal this predator ruled the oceans 80 million years ago. It was much larger than modern sharks. Researchers believe it was aggressive, fighting other mosasaurs. This discovery updates our understanding of these ancient sea creatures. A reconstructed skeleton is now on display.

Election Commission of India Falta Election Result 2026: Vote counting for the Falta Assembly seat in West Bengal is currently underway, with BJP candidate Debangshu Panda taking an early lead. The constituency recently witnessed a full repoll after the Election Commission of India ordered fresh voting over allegations of electoral irregularities and EVM tampering. Tight security arrangements have been put in place at counting centres and strong rooms.

The Indian government is actively considering removing the 11 percent customs duty on raw cotton imports. Ministries are in advanced talks to address cost pressures faced by the domestic textile industry. A supply-demand gap for cotton is creating challenges for spinning mills and manufacturers. A decision on the duty is expected soon.

Tensions escalated in a dramatic encounter near the White House when a man with a history of violence, captivated by the allure of political power, engaged in a shootout with Secret Service agents. The chaotic moment unfolded as he approached a security check, firing at officers who swiftly returned fire, neutralizing the threat.

India has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential trips to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. This follows the World Health Organization's declaration of an Ebola outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola has spread rapidly. Health authorities remain vigilant.

The Delhi Gymkhana Club faces a government order to vacate its premises by June 5. The Centre cites urgent public purpose and national interest for the resumption of the land. The club has requested a meeting with ministry officials to discuss the matter. Its priority is to ensure uninterrupted operations for members and employees.

A devastating gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in China's Shanxi province has claimed 82 lives. This incident marks the nation's deadliest mining accident in 17 years. Officials revised the death toll after initial reports. The government has ordered an investigation and stressed the need for greater safety in production.

Ganga Dussehra 2026: Ganga Dussehra, celebrating Goddess Ganga's descent to Earth, will be observed on Monday, May 25, 2026. This significant Hindu festival involves holy dips in the Ganga, believed to cleanse sins, and various religious rituals. Devotees also engage in charitable acts and participate in Ganga Aarti, seeking blessings for prosperity and spiritual strength.

Garena Free Fire MAX offers players daily rewards and engaging events, with redeem codes providing easy access to free in-game items. These 12-character alphanumeric codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once. Players can claim their rewards by visiting the official redemption site and logging in with their game-linked accounts.

Delhi's air pollution is a constant battle, not just a seasonal issue. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is driving year-round efforts to clean the capital's air. Innovative projects, developed with IIT Delhi, are now being put into action. A detailed Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026 is guiding this mission. This plan focuses on technology and accountability for a cleaner Delhi.

Rapper Santy Sharma dismisses the viral 'Cockroach Janta Party' trend as mere internet drama, not a genuine movement. He urges focus on real national issues like development and employment, warning against emotionally driven online campaigns. Sharma also highlights concerns about digital manipulation and foreign interference in Indian discourse.

Abhijeet Dipke, the founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, stands firm against BJP's assertions regarding the demographic of his movement's social media audience. According to recent data, an impressive 94% of his followers are Indians, countering the Union ministers' claims of a Pakistani influence. The movement's emphasis on youth unemployment and educational reform is stirring up significant political controversy.

Bollywood star Salman Khan humorously revealed his reluctance to enter politics, joking he'd lose even a building secretary election due to family votes. He shared this on The Kapil Sharma Show, citing his own family's potential lack of support. Khan is set to star in the war drama 'Maatrubhumi' and has another untitled project in development.

Petrol Diesel Price Today May 24 check Delhi, Noida, Faribadad, Lucknow fuel rates: Fuel prices in India have surged again, with petrol nearing Rs 100 per litre in Delhi and diesel prices also climbing significantly. This marks the third recent increase in CNG rates, adding to public concern amidst geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and potential fuel shortages. The hikes are expected to raise transportation costs and impact household budgets.

The surge in global military budgets is astonishing, with nations investing heavily in their defense capabilities in response to escalating threats and protracted conflicts. As geopolitical rivalries intensify and the United Nations struggles to maintain order, countries are increasingly prioritizing military strength, hinting at a drastic turn towards heightened militarization and the possibility of an arms race.

A significant anti-terror operation is intensifying in Rajouri's Pir Panjal belt after security forces engaged heavily armed terrorists in the Gambir Mughlan forest. Following an intelligence-led search, contact was established Sunday morning with an estimated two to three militants believed to be trapped.

Robert Downey Jr.'s quote, I have a sense of destiny that you are led to the things you are supposed to do, reflects his personal journey of overcoming addiction and career setbacks. His inspiring comeback, particularly as Iron Man, demonstrates how life's challenges can redirect individuals toward their true purpose and success.

India and Oman have strengthened their strategic defence partnership with specialized military training for the Sultan's Armed Forces. Two Indian Mobile Training Teams focused on operational coordination and joint logistics, enhancing interoperability. This initiative follows recent discussions on West Asia and India's condemnation of attacks on commercial shipping off Oman's coast.

Yesterday IPL match Result LSG VS PBKS: Punjab Kings secured a crucial seven-wicket win against Lucknow Super Giants. Shreyas Iyer smashed an unbeaten century to chase down 197. This victory propelled Punjab into the top four. Lucknow's playoff hopes ended with the loss. Josh Inglis scored 72 for Lucknow. Punjab's chase was anchored by a 140-run partnership.

A nine-storey building under construction collapsed in Angeles City, Philippines, trapping an estimated 30 to 40 people. Eight individuals were rescued, and 11 others escaped the incident. Search and rescue operations are underway, though challenges exist due to the concrete structure. The cause of the collapse is under investigation.

KCET 2026 result date and time: Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 results are awaited from the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA), with over 3.3 lakh students registered. The exams concluded in April, and KEA has directed students to upload Class 12 marks for result preparation. Counselling may proceed independently of NEET due to recent controversies.

During the meeting, Rubio emphasised that the US will not allow Iran hold the global energy market hostage and affirmed that US energy products have the potential to diversify Indias energy supply, the US State Department said in a readout. The two sides reflected upon recent bilateral achievements, including significant investments that advance the president and prime ministers Mission 500 to double trade by 2030, it said.

Companies such as Nestle, WeWork India, Swiggy and DriveU are adopting pet-inclusive practices, as organisations look for new ways to reduce employee stress, improve morale and strengthen workplace connections. The idea is increasingly being framed not as a perk, but as part of a broader rethinking of employee experience.

Quote of the day by Ralph Waldo Emerson focuses on the meaning of life and human values through the line, It is not length of life, but depth of life. The quote explains why purpose, compassion, love, and meaningful actions matter more than the number of years lived. Ralph Waldo Emersons philosophy, writings, and role in Transcendentalism continue to influence discussions on human behavior, morality, and self-reliance across the world.

Greek proverb of the day: Old age and poverty are presented as deeply challenging, irreversible conditions that significantly impact quality of life. The proverb Old age and poverty are wounds that cant be healed highlights the lasting difficulties, emphasizing the need for future financial planning to mitigate vulnerability in later years.

Memorial Day 2026, observed on Monday, May 25, honors fallen US service members. While many government offices, banks, and postal services will be closed, major retailers like Walmart and Target are expected to remain open. UPS and FedEx will suspend most services, with exceptions for critical deliveries.

Quote of the day by Sylvester Stallone: He encourages men to show their emotions. He believes true strength lies in acknowledging vulnerability, not hiding it. Societal pressure often tells men to be tough and not cry. However, men experience the same feelings as anyone else. Openly discussing emotions helps mental well-being and builds stronger relationships.

Quote of the day by Charles Dickens highlights the idea that happiness should be accepted when it arrives instead of being demanded every day. The quote explains joy, peace, patience and human behavior. Charles Dickens shared lessons about life through his novels and personal struggles. His words continue to guide readers who want balance, gratitude and calm thinking in daily life and relationships.

Starting in July, six crore Swasthya Sathi card holders in West Bengal will be eligible for the Ayushman Bharat scheme. New applications are now being accepted. Additionally, the recruitment process will see enhanced transparency as OMR sheet carbon copies will be mandatory for all candidates.

Assam's government has welcomed West Bengal's move to fence sensitive border areas. This includes the Siliguri Corridor, vital for connecting the Northeast. Governor Lakshman Prasad Achary highlighted past infiltration challenges. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also revealed plans for a rail link across the corridor. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated this strategic breakthrough will secure transportation to the Northeast.

Cyprus plans to buy defence equipment from India. A new cooperation roadmap for 2026 to 2031 will boost defence and security ties. Companies from both nations will explore partnerships. This includes collaboration on cybersecurity and new technologies. Both countries also aim for stronger maritime cooperation. This will involve naval vessel port calls and joint training exercises.