The Economic Times

India's economy shows strong health over four decades. Key indicators like inflation and current account deficit are stable and improving. Fiscal discipline has strengthened government finances. GDP growth and per capita income are rising. These factors highlight India's broad-based macroeconomic stabilization.

The Kerala government has decided to increase the upper age limit for Public Service Commission recruitments by four years. This change will benefit general category candidates, raising their age limit from 36 to 40 years. Other categories eligible for relaxation will also see a corresponding increase. This move addresses a long-standing demand from job aspirants.

Army's 'Exercise Kharga Shakti 2026' concluded on the western front, demonstrating operational preparedness under challenging battlefield conditions. The exercise tested the corps' ability to integrate mobility, firepower, and technology, supported by drone reconnaissance and air defence. Joint drills with the Indian Air Force showcased multi-domain operational capability.

The Indian Air Force conducted a full dress rehearsal of Exercise Vayushakti at Pokharan ahead of the February 27 firepower display. The day-dusk-night drill features fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters, showcasing operational readiness, precision strike capability and coordinated multi-domain combat operations.

Tickets for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals and final are now available. Fans can book seats online for the knockout matches on March 4, 5, and 8. Venue details for Semi-Final 1 and the Final depend on team standings. Semi-Final 2 is set for Mumbai. Secure your tickets early for these crucial matches.

Anthony Hopkins quote, My philosophy is it's none of my business what people say of me and think of me. I am what I am, and I do what I do. I expect nothing and accept everything features a philosophy grounded in self-awareness and emotional freedom. By stating that other peoples opinions are none of my business, he points out detachment from external judgment. The message promotes authenticity, encouraging individuals to embrace who they are without seeking constant approval.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Israel for two days to strengthen defence, trade and strategic ties amid Middle-East tensions. He will hold talks with Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, address parliament, and discuss security cooperation, FTA talks and regional developments, including Gaza and Iran-related tensions.

Betrothal meaning: Betrothal, a formal promise to marry, echoes historical traditions of commitment. Once legally binding and socially significant, especially in medieval Europe, it united families. Modern audiences see its weight in shows like Bridgerton, where such announcements impact reputation and alliances, reflecting a deep-seated seriousness in pledging one's future.

Wordle is a daily five-letter word game created by Josh Wardle and acquired by The New York Times in 2022. The puzzle refreshes at midnight local time, giving players six chances to guess the days word.

Deputies visited Nancy Guthrie's neighbor's home on day 22 of the search for the missing 84-year-old. This development follows the discovery of blood-stained gloves and a rock in the desert near her Tucson residence. Authorities are analyzing collected items as the investigation intensifies.

Hidden health symptoms: California-based doctor Cleo Tetzloff has highlighted on Instagram that many people may feel unwell despite having normal lab results. In her post, she outlines ten signs that the body may need deeper investigation, including fatigue, brain fog, hair loss, low mood, weight gain, poor sleep and gut issues. She suggests that standard reference ranges may not always reflect optimal health and encourages more comprehensive testing. However, she also advises seeking proper med

Alap Shah AI post going viral: A thought-provoking analysis titled 'The 2028 Global Intelligence Crisis' by Alap Shah is sparking widespread debate. The piece, presented as a hypothetical future, explores how AI's evolution into a labor replacement engine could lead to 'Ghost GDP' rising output without corresponding income growth, impacting white-collar jobs and consumer demand.

Chipotle Mexican Grill is celebrating National Tortilla Chip Day, observed annually on Feb. 24, with a special three-day promotion. From Feb. 23 through Feb. 25, customers who make a digital order and buy a full-priced entre can get a free side of chips and Queso Blanco with promo code CHIPS26 at checkout. The offer is valid exclusively on the Chipotle app and official websites and cannot be redeemed in-store or via third-party delivery platforms.

Maharashtra's Excise Commissioner Rajesh Deshmukh has debunked rumors about ending dry days for Holi, Muharram, and Gandhi Jayanti. He confirmed that the state's liquor policy remains unchanged. Eight mandatory dry days will continue to be enforced across Maharashtra. These include Republic Day, Martyrs' Day, Maharashtra Day, Ashadhi Ekadashi, Independence Day, Anant Chaturdashi, Gandhi Jayanti, and Kartiki Ekadashi.

Chinas reusable Shenlong space plane has launched into orbit for its fourth mission, renewing international interest in what many analysts characterize as the countrys highly secretive space plane program.

India and the Gulf Cooperation Council have officially launched negotiations for a comprehensive free trade agreement, signing a joint statement to deepen collaboration. This landmark agreement aims to enhance trade in goods, services, digital trade, and cutting-edge technologies, fostering increased investment flows between India and the six GCC member nations.

Japan's government plans to deploy surface-to-air missiles on one of its remote western islands near Taiwan by March 2031, the country's defence minister said on Tuesday. The ministry announced the plan in 2022 to ramp up its air defences on the island, which already hosts a Japanese military base.

Noida's Flower Festival at Shivalik Park saw visitors stealing decorative flowers. Videos captured the incidents, drawing widespread criticism for the lack of civic sense. This behavior, even among seemingly educated individuals, has sparked disappointment. A similar event occurred during Prime Minister Modi's Lucknow visit last year, where flower pots were taken by the crowd.

Albert Einstein's quote, In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity, highlights that challenges are pathways to growth. By reframing setbacks as learning experiences and focusing on solutions, individuals can build resilience and emerge stronger. This mindset transforms difficulties into stepping stones for success.

Japan is harnessing the power of footsteps through piezoelectric technology, turning everyday walking into usable electrical energy. Installed in busy areas such as Shibuya Station, this innovation helps power low-energy devices and demonstrates a practical approach to renewable energy generation in urban spaces. Although each step produces only a small amount of electricity, the overall impact can be meaningful in crowded public areas.

The Indian Army hosted the inaugural International Military Adventure Challenge Cup (IMACC) 2026 in the Eastern Himalayas, featuring 12 teams from seven nations. The event tested soldiers' physical and mental fortitude through challenging terrain-based duathlon and triathlon competitions, fostering camaraderie and mutual understanding.

China's military is undergoing significant purges due to corruption. This is creating gaps in its command structure. The International Institute for Strategic Studies reports these issues may affect the readiness of its modernizing forces. Despite these challenges, China's military modernization is expected to continue. Increased military deployments are noted in the Indo-Pacific region.

Israel is sending a stern warning to Lebanon, making it clear that if Hezbollah decides to jump into any potential conflict between the US and Iran, they'll face a severe and forceful response. Lebanese officials have confirmed this tough stance, indicating a serious escalation if the situation widens.

Donald Trumps economic agenda has produced a complicated picture. Output is expanding faster than many analysts projected, with robust GDP numbers. Yet hiring has slowed, wage gains are uneven, and inflation pressures are eroding purchasing power. A recent Supreme Court ruling has injected new legal and regulatory uncertainty into the business climate.

Consumers may not see lower prices despite a Supreme Court ruling on tariffs. Businesses absorbed previous costs and are focused on recouping losses. The government must now figure out how to return billions in collected tariffs. New tariffs are also being imposed, meaning relief for shoppers is unlikely in the near future.

President Trump addresses the nation tonight. He seeks support for his Iran policy. US forces are building up in the Middle East. Trump aims for a deal on Iran's nuclear program. He warns of consequences if no agreement is reached. This comes as Republicans face challenges in Congress. Iran presents a significant challenge compared to Venezuela.

UPSC site upsconline.nic.in down: The Union Public Service Commission registration for Civil Services and Indian Forest Services 2026 ends today at 6 PM. Many candidates faced website errors and slowdowns. No extension has been announced by UPSC. The application process began on February 4, 2026. The preliminary exam is scheduled for May 24, 2026. Candidates should keep trying to access the portal.

The Union Cabinet has approved changing Kerala's name to Keralam. This move will now proceed through parliamentary procedures. Senior leader Shashi Tharoor humorously questioned the new terms for residents. He also expressed admiration for C Rajagopalachari, noting his enduring principles. The government is taking steps to amend the Constitution.

Hollywood star Charlize Theron champions substance over looks. She believes beauty opens doors but talent and resilience build careers. Theron's own journey proves this, from her Oscar-winning role in Monster to her advocacy for social causes. She highlights gender inequality and the pay gap in the industry. Theron's message encourages developing skills and inner strength for enduring success.

Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha has vowed to enforce rules banning meat, fish, and poultry sales near religious and educational institutions, citing moral and safety concerns. Critics argue the move may target specific communities and urge practical solutions like designated retail zones instead of symbolic crackdowns.

Chaos erupted in the Bihar Assembly after RJD MLAs protested a police lathi charge on village chowkidars, accusing the government of ruling through force. An angry Nitish Kumar hit back, defending his administrations record and attacking the oppositions past governance, triggering a heated exchange that briefly disrupted proceedings before ministers assured talks with protesters to address their demands.

Iran is close to finalising a deal with China to acquire advanced CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missiles, a move that could significantly boost Tehrans naval strike capability and threaten United States forces in the region. Negotiations, underway for at least two years, accelerated after last years Israel-Iran conflict, with senior Iranian officials travelling to Beijing as talks neared conclusion. The potential transfer comes as Washington amasses major naval assets near Iran and Donald Trump wa

Quote of the day by Audrey Hepburn shows that true elegance lies not only in appearance or achievement, but in generosity of spirit.

The Kerala High Court has raised concerns about the film 'The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond'. The court believes the movie misrepresents Kerala and could incite communal disharmony. Producers have agreed to withdraw teasers. The court will decide on February 27 whether to watch the film before its release. Arguments continue on pleas seeking to quash the film's certification.

The Union Cabinet has approved significant infrastructure and policy initiatives totaling Rs 12,236 crore. Key approvals include major railway projects, a new terminal at Srinagar airport, and an Ahmedabad Metro extension. Power sector reforms and an increased MSP for raw jute were also sanctioned. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the proposal to rename Kerala as Keralam.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held discussions with Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on the states recovery efforts. Sitharaman pledged comprehensive assistance for reviving Manipurs economy and supporting the rehabilitation of people displaced by ethnic clashes.

Top Maoist commander Thippiri Tirupati, known as Devuji, surrendered to Telangana police. He was a key strategist and Central Committee member of the banned CPI (Maoist) outfit. Devuji, along with another Central Committee member Malla Raji Reddy and two other ultras, laid down their arms. Devuji operated from Maad in Chhattisgarh state.

A 17-year study by IIT-Kanpur warns that parts of Kanpur and Prayagraj face serious damage risk from a strong earthquake due to highly liquefiable, water-saturated alluvial soil along the Ganga belt. Researchers found loose sandy layers extending up to 3040 metres deep in some pockets, which could destabilise buildings and infrastructure during intense tremors.

Keralam Meaning: The Union Cabinet has approved renaming Kerala to Keralam, aligning its English name with local Malayalam pronunciation. This move, driven by a long-standing linguistic demand, emphasizes the state's identity rooted in Kera (coconut) and Alam (land). The proposal, gaining traction ahead of elections, now awaits parliamentary approval to officially change constitutional records.

Mushrooms, a type of edible fungus, must be washed properly before cooking as they can carry dirt, debris or pesticide residue. While selecting mushrooms, you must choose fresh and firm mushrooms, just rinse them with water, wipe them with a damp cloth, trim stems and dry them thoroughly. Following these steps will help preserve the texture and flavour of mushrooms.