The Economic Times
Elections 2026Company / The Economic Times
A tragic ropeway accident occurred in Mahasamund, Chhattisgarh. A trolley carrying passengers crashed while descending from a hilltop temple. One woman lost her life and six others sustained injuries. The incident happened on Sunday morning. Authorities have ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the cable snap. The injured have been hospitalized.
Police officials are visiting stations across West Bengal. They are reviewing security and poll preparedness. The Election Commission is stepping up monitoring. Local police units are receiving guidance. The aim is to ensure free and fair polling. Measures will curb malpractice and intimidation.
Sydney's transport union urges the government to abolish public transport fares, citing rising petrol costs and cost-of-living pressures. The RTBU suggests free or heavily subsidized travel to encourage commuters out of cars. However, the Transport Minister maintains current fares are fair, despite a daily cap of $19.30 for adults.
An Indian man in London captured a video of a classic auto-rickshaw navigating the city's traffic, a sight that instantly evoked memories of home. The unexpected appearance of the familiar vehicle amidst typical UK cars created a striking contrast, resonating with viewers who shared their own nostalgic sentiments.
The West Asian conflict is disrupting global shipping, energy, and supply chains, impacting Indian companies with shipment delays and input pressures. However, India entered the crisis from a position of strength, with the government taking swift measures to manage the fallout and enhance economic resilience.
Tragic news out of Qatar today, where a helicopter went down, killing all six people on board. Officials are pointing to a technical malfunction as the cause of the devastating crash. This incident has understandably caused a stir, with the ministry confirming the unfortunate details.
The Trinamool Congress pledged to increase tea garden worker wages to Rs 300. Industry stakeholders express caution, citing the sector's financial struggles. They emphasize the need for consultations involving employers, unions, and the government. The Darjeeling tea industry faces challenges from rising costs and cheaper imports.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made history. He is now India's longest-serving head of an elected government. This milestone combines his time as Gujarat Chief Minister and Prime Minister. Modi's leadership journey spans nearly 25 years. He has achieved significant political relevance and public support. His digital presence is also notable, with millions of followers across platforms.
The Trinamool Congress has released its second list of candidates for the Assam Assembly elections. Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed will contest from Mandia. The party withdrew Dulu Ahmed's candidature from Chamaria. Seven candidates are named in this new list. Elections are scheduled for April 9, with vote counting on May 4. This move shapes the opposition's strategy.
Parliamentary Committee demands updates on Lokpal's inquiry and prosecution wings. The anti-corruption ombudsman's law was enacted in 2014. The committee is reviewing the appointment of the Director of Inquiry and staffing. It also seeks the operational roadmap for the prosecution wing. Consultations for a dedicated special court are ongoing. Staffing at the Lokpal secretariat needs review due to rising complaints.
Katharine Hepburn, a Hollywood icon, defied societal norms for women. She pursued her career and independence, famously choosing not to have children. Her four Oscar wins highlight her remarkable acting talent. Hepburn's life demonstrated a commitment to living on her own terms, inspiring many to challenge expectations and forge their own paths.
IPL 2026 faces a challenging start with numerous player injuries. Key bowlers like Harshit Rana and Nathan Ellis are out for the season. Sam Curran and Jack Edwards also face significant absences. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will miss early matches. Lockie Ferguson prioritizes family. Matheesha Pathirana and Eshan Malinga are recovering. Matthew Short is also sidelined.
Dhurandhar: The Revenge delivers action and drama. Ranveer Singh stars as Hamza Ali Mazari. The film's biggest surprise is Jameel Jamali, played by Rakesh Bedi. Jamali is revealed as the architect of Hamza's entire path. His subtle performance makes the twist impactful. The story explores control and manipulation.
The Election Commission of India is preparing for upcoming Assembly polls in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. All 2,18,807 polling stations will have essential facilities like drinking water and shade. Voters will receive assistance and information through posters and booths. A mobile phone deposit facility will also be available. These measures aim for a smooth voting experience.
Iranian ballistic missiles struck Dimona, a southern Israeli town known as Little India. The attack injured at least 47 people. This strike followed an Israeli action against Iran's Natanz nuclear facility. Dimona is home to Israel's nuclear programme. The town is called Little India due to its large Indian-Jewish community.
Prominent investor Saurabh Mukherjea has warned that India's era of secure white-collar jobs is ending due to AI adoption and IT industry slowdowns. He urges professionals to adopt a business owner's mindset, proactively upskill in AI, and build a two-year financial safety net to navigate this disruption and find new opportunities.
India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh warned that the West Asia conflict could trigger a global energy and fertiliser crisis, impacting India. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy are crucial for resolution, crediting PM Modi for keeping India out of direct involvement and highlighting India's increased global influence.
Israeli first responders said rocket fire from Lebanon killed one person on Sunday close to Israel's northern border. The ZAKA 360 emergency response unit said a person was pronounced dead after a strike on their vehicle carried out by a rocket fired from Lebanon.
Samrudhi SM-47 lottery Results (22-03-2026): Excitement builds as the Kerala State Lottery Department prepares to unveil Samrudhi SM-47 results on Sunday, March 22. Participants stand a chance to win substantial cash prizes, with the top award being a staggering Rs 1 crore. Other significant prizes include Rs 25 lakh for the second winner and Rs 5 lakh for the third.
The Delhi PWD has launched a QR code system allowing citizens to rate road construction and maintenance. By scanning codes on display boards, residents can access project details and submit feedback, fostering transparency and accountability. This initiative aims to improve road infrastructure through direct public engagement and a robust monitoring framework.
Assam's elections highlight regionalism as a key issue. National parties have adopted the agenda of protecting Assamese identity. This has sidelined regional parties like AGP. Experts believe regional parties can revive if they focus on their core principles. The sentiment for Assamese nationalism remains strong among voters.
The Tamilaga Vazhvurimai Katchi has left the DMK-led SPA. Party founder T Velmurugan stated his party felt ignored and cited the DMK's 'big brother attitude'. He mentioned unfulfilled demands regarding social justice. The party will not join the NDA and is exploring other alliance options.
F35 hit over Iran: viral animated clip suggests Iran may have detected an F-35 stealth fighter using passive infrared sensors, tracking heat signatures instead of radar. This theory emerges as Iran claims to have struck a US F-35 in its airspace, though the US confirms an incident requiring an emergency landing.
Dhurandhar 2 captivates audiences with villains inspired by real figures. Characters like Major Iqbal, SP Chaudhary Aslam, Rehman Dakait, Uzair Baloch, Bade Sahab, and Javed Khanani draw from notorious criminals and operatives. These portrayals reflect real-world crime networks, terrorism, and geopolitical tensions. The film blends fiction with reality, offering a layered narrative.
Chaitra Navratri 2026 Day 4 Mata Kushmanda Mantra: Chaitra Navratri's fourth day in 2026 is dedicated to Maa Kushmanda, the universe's creator. Devotees worship her, wearing auspicious orange for courage and positivity. Fasting purifies body and mind, focusing on spiritual devotion. Simple sattvik meals are consumed. This day emphasizes divine energy and well-being for all followers.
In a proactive move, Iran expresses its willingness to collaborate with the International Maritime Organization to enhance maritime safety in the Gulf region. While the Strait of Hormuz continues to facilitate the majority of maritime traffic, vessels associated with Iran's rivals are being excluded.
Kerala's Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan faces a crucial test in his Paravur constituency. He aims to replicate his statewide success in this upcoming election. Satheesan has a strong hold on the seat, winning consecutive terms. His opponent, CPI's Taison Master, is confident of an upset. The BJP also fields a strong candidate, adding to the contest's intensity.
Kerala's ruling Left front remains confident for the upcoming Assembly elections. Party leader M V Govindan dismissed concerns over defectors, calling them insignificant. The front aims for 110 seats, highlighting its development work and effective governance. The opposition Congress-led UDF faces criticism for its lack of contribution to the state's progress over the last decade.
An explosion in Bahrain injured dozens of civilians. Researchers suggest an American Patriot missile, not an Iranian drone, caused the blast. The incident highlights the risks of using advanced weapons against cheaper drones. Bahrain and the US operate Patriot systems in the Gulf kingdom. The analysis points to a US-operated battery near the blast site.
Ukrainian soldiers are rapidly innovating to counter Russian Shahed drones. Small teams are developing and testing self-made interceptor drones. This grassroots technology, born of necessity, is proving effective. Ukraine's domestic drone interceptor market is growing.
The Bharatiya Janata Party and its NDA allies have finalised their candidates for the Kerala Assembly polls. State president Rajeev Chandrashekhar emphasized the open and transparent selection process. This approach contrasts with the perceived confusion in rival parties. The alliance aims to bring change to Kerala. The BJP has announced candidates for most constituencies, with senior leaders contesting key seats.
LPG Gas Price in Delhi: LPG cylinder prices in India remained steady on Sunday, March 22, 2026, following a nationwide hike earlier this month. Domestic and commercial gas rates are unchanged after oil marketing companies made no fresh revision. The last price adjustment on March 7 was attributed to global supply disruptions and rising import costs.
Indian creators are redefining global luxury by blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Designers, couturiers, and chefs are appealing to younger, affluent consumers who value authenticity, storytelling, and cultural roots over conspicuous logos. This shift emphasizes experience, quality, and personal meaning in luxury goods and services.
The KSU has approached the Kerala High Court challenging alleged communal remarks by a BJP candidate in Guruvayoor. The student outfit also filed complaints with police and officials. The candidate's campaign video reportedly questioned the absence of a Hindu MLA for decades. KSU seeks the candidate's disqualification, citing attempts to create communal divisions for electoral gain.
Indian art galleries are transforming. They are moving beyond the traditional white cube to offer diverse cultural experiences. This shift aims to attract new audiences and make art more accessible. Galleries are incorporating music, theatre, and digital platforms. This evolution creates engaging spaces for community interaction and broader cultural conversations. The focus is on experience and connection.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing voters using the SIR. She labelled the Prime Minister as the biggest infiltrator. Banerjee stated her Trinamool Congress party aims to oust the BJP from West Bengal and protect the nation. She vowed to continue fighting against the deletion of names from electoral rolls.
INS Nilgiri is participating in Exercise Kakadu 2026 in Australia. This exercise strengthens naval cooperation. India is also preparing to commission its new stealth frigate, Taragiri. Taragiri is built with significant indigenous content. It showcases India's growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Iranian missiles struck Arad and Dimona in southern Israel on Saturday. The attacks caused significant damage to buildings and wounded dozens of people. One missile hit near Dimona, home to a nuclear facility. Air defense systems operated but did not intercept the missile. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue striking enemies on all fronts.
Garena Free Fire Max players can snag free in-game items using 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes released regularly. These codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once, so prompt redemption is crucial. Players can visit reward.ff.garena.com to log in and enter their codes to claim rewards.
West Bengal authorities are preparing for the release of supplementary electoral rolls on March 23. District magistrates have been instructed to ensure law and order. This updated list will include voters whose applications were pending. The state is gearing up for elections on April 23 and April 29. Vote counting is scheduled for May 4.
Henry Ford revolutionized the automobile industry by making cars accessible to the masses through innovative mass production techniques like the moving assembly line. His introduction of the $5 workday also transformed labor practices. While a manufacturing visionary, Ford's legacy is debated due to his anti-union views and antisemitic writings. He died in 1947, leaving an indelible mark on global industry.
As Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a six-month salary deferment for ministers, MLAs, and senior bureaucrats, Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee chief Vinay Kumar defended the state budget, saying that most of the cuts have been made in the salaries of big officials and legislators who have good incomes and no cuts were made in the income of third-class and fourth-class employees.
Tropical Cyclone Narelle is set to impact Western Australia after crossing the coast twice. The storm previously hit the Northern Territory with strong winds. Authorities warn of potential redevelopment into a cyclone. Coastal communities face severe weather, including heavy rain and flash flooding. Queensland experienced significant rainfall but largely escaped major damage.

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