The Economic Times

Tamil Nadu cylinder burst: One dead and at least 18 injured after a helium cylinder exploded during the Thenpennai River Festival in Manalurpettai in the Kallakurichi district, as per District Collector of Tiruvannamalai, K Tharpagaraj.

Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu highlighted declining birth rates in China and India, noting Tamil Nadu's steeper fall. He moved to rural India to be near families raising children, considering it a life blessing. Reactions debated the implications of low birth rates, with some emphasizing productivity and community over numbers.

Authorities said the blaze, which broke out around 10:00 p.m. on January 17, was brought under control after nearly 34 hours. However, rescue and recovery operations are still underway amid fears of further collapse. Search teams, supported by the Army, Rangers and civil administration, are carrying out a cautious operation while engineers assess the damaged structure.

Bondi Beach terror attack: The December 14 attack at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people was carried out by individuals who had hate in their hearts and guns in their hands, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said as he introduced the new laws.

Croma iPhone 17 discount: During the Croma Republic Day sale, Apple iPhone 17 and iPhone 15 are seeing a sharp price cut. Originally priced at 82,900, Apples latest iPhone is now available at an effective price of 47,990 through exchange and bank offers. Similarly, you can get iPhone 15 at Rs 31,990. Discounts and offers are also available for Samsung S25 series, electronics, MacBook Air M4 and more.

Iran violence : The agency has been accurate in previous rounds of unrest in Iran and relies on a network of activists on the ground to confirm each death. It fears many more may have been killed.

A video allegedly showing Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao in a compromising position with women has gone viral. Rao has denied the authenticity of the videos, calling them fabricated. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered an investigation, stating that no one is above the law.

Cement consumption has hit a peak. China, the largest producer, is seeing its construction boom end. Output has fallen significantly and is expected to decline further. This drop in demand is good news for the environment. Efforts to reduce cement's carbon footprint have been slow. A decline in consumption offers the best chance to clean up this industry.

Brooklyn Beckham finally reveals real reason of feud with family and parents David and Victoria after months of silence. Brooklyn says his parents damaged his marriage, controlled press stories, and caused anxiety. He says he does not want reconciliation and wants privacy with Nicola Peltz Beckham.

Who is Don Lemon and what is Ku Klux Klan Act? This explainer details the 1871 law, its purpose, and how it surfaced after claims that Don Lemon faced scrutiny following an anti-ICE protest inside a church in Minnesota.

A colossal Wyoming ranch, larger than Rhode Island, has been acquired by local rancher Chris Robinson, ending speculation about foreign buyers. Robinson, CEO of Ensign Group, plans to integrate the massive Pathfinder Ranches into his existing operations, focusing on livestock growth and conservation. This significant land deal reunites historically connected properties, bolstering America's shrinking cattle herd.

Trump Greenland plan pushback: Americans largely reject President Donald Trump's ambition for Greenland. New polls reveal strong opposition to military action or purchasing the territory. European nations warn of damage to ties over tariff threats. Denmark disputes security concerns cited by the US. The situation highlights growing international and domestic resistance to Trump's assertive approach.

Patients affected by the First Choice Dental data breach can get cash and free credit monitoring. Those with losses may receive up to $6,000, while others get $50. Claims must be submitted by January 28, 2026. The settlement also highlights other data breach payouts, like AT&T and Papaya Gaming, giving customers protection and compensation for personal data exposure.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors a leader whose life was marked by profound dedication to equality and justice. Lesser-known facts reveal his academic brilliance, numerous arrests for civil disobedience, and a near-fatal assassination attempt years before his death. A civil trial later concluded his assassination was a conspiracy, yet his enduring legacy is rooted in peace and nonviolence.

Minecraft Realms down and when will it be back up? Thousands of players reported issues across the United States and other regions. Users faced login failures, server disconnects, and worlds not loading. Mojang has not shared the cause or recovery timeline yet.

Tiger Global may file a review petition following a Supreme Court verdict on the India-Mauritius tax treaty. The ruling alters how investors interpret tax treaties, particularly regarding indirect transfers. This development sparks discussions in tax and legal circles. The verdict's interpretation of a key treaty article differs significantly from investor expectations.

The integration of physics-based simulations into AI represents a groundbreaking leap forward, delivering verifiable scientific insights that surpass the abilities of expansive language models. This analytical approach is gaining momentum in fields like drug innovation and materials research, with pharmaceutical firms striving for significant breakthroughs.

Budget 2026: In the face of global instability, industry leaders and economists are calling on the government to maintain its reform agenda and enhance the ease of doing business. Their aim is to stimulate demand and foster innovation within the country. These sentiments were shared by prominent figures including Habil Khorakiwala, chairman of Wockhardt Group; Anish Shah, group CEO and MD of Mahindra Group; Neelkanth Mishra, chief economist at Axis Bank and a member of the Prime Ministers Econom

A major Michigan highway crash forced I-196 near Hudsonville to shut down after icy winter weather caused a large vehicle pileup. Emergency crews are clearing the scene as drivers face delays and detours. Nearby areas also reported crashes due to poor visibility and dangerous road conditions. Officials urge travelers to check road and weather updates before driving.

A potential US-EU trade dispute could boost Indian exports as the EU seeks stronger ties with nations like India. With the US imposing tariffs on several European goods, the EU may expedite its free trade agreement talks with India. This could lead to a more favorable deal and faster ratification, presenting India as a stable trade partner amidst global uncertainties.

Michael Saylor Bitcoin (BTC USD) byuing: MicroStrategy's Michael Saylor is hinting at more Bitcoin buys after a massive $1.25 billion acquisition. The company has added nearly 15,000 BTC this year, holding over 687,000 coins profitably. Despite this, MicroStrategy's stock has seen a significant dip, while its Bitcoin holdings now represent over 3% of the total supply.

Congress leaders in Rajasthan have accused the BJP of manipulating the draft voter list. They claim names of opposition supporters are being fraudulently removed. This alleged manipulation began after a meeting on January 3. Thousands of forms were reportedly distributed to delete names, particularly in constituencies won by Congress.

Valentino Garavani was a legendary Italian fashion designer known for elegant gowns and luxury style. He built a global fashion brand loved by movie stars, royals, and supermodels. His designs appeared at major red carpet events for decades. Valentinos work changed high fashion and left a lasting mark on the fashion industry worldwide.

CPM leader Brinda Karat has called the death of a Kuki gang rape survivor a ational shame, highlighting the state and justice system's failure nearly two years after the brutal crime. The woman, who died due to medical complications without seeing justice, was victimized twice by divisive politics and a slow-acting system.

President Donald Trump is linking his ambition to acquire Greenland to not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. This move is straining NATO and EU-US trade relations. The European Union is considering imposing tariffs on billions of dollars of US imports. Trump is scheduled to attend Davos this week, where discussions on these escalating tensions are expected.

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission of India to publish the names of 12.5 million individuals flagged for logical discrepancy in West Bengal's voter lists. The ECI must ensure transparent verification of these individuals, who have mismatches in age details with parents or grandparents, and provide them with opportunities to be heard.

The colour, introduced to the fashion world several years later, in 1959, with a strapless cocktail dress of draped tulle, has carried his name - Valentino red - ever since, doubling as the eponymous Italian fashion group's signature.

Uttar Pradesh secured significant investment commitments at the World Economic Forum 2026, signing deals worth 8,000 crore for clean energy, 1,600 crore for an AI-ready data center, and 150 crore for defense manufacturing. These agreements highlight the state's focus on sustainability, technology-led growth, and advanced manufacturing, aiming to attract global investors.

Paras Defence and Space Technologies Ltd is investing Rs 500 crore to establish a new semiconductor production facility, aiming to cater to domestic and export markets. Production is slated to begin by the end of 2027, focusing on chiplet integration and advanced system-in-package technologies, particularly for thermal imaging systems.

Investing $6.66 a day, or roughly $200 a month, may seem minor, but over 40 years it can grow close to $1 million. The growth comes from compounding and long-term U.S. stock market returns that have averaged around 10% annually. Starting early gives money more time to multiply. Regular investing smooths market swings and beats timing risks. Using tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs further strengthens long-term retirement growth.

Khalil Gibran's enduring wisdom highlights how suffering can forge strong souls and resilient characters, transforming pain into a crucible for growth. His words encourage embracing challenges as opportunities for deeper self-understanding and personal transformation, affirming the value of perseverance through hardship.

Camila Cabellos quote: i think i miss you means even more than i love you. Because you can love a lot of people but there are really just a few you can miss. offers a thoughtful view on emotional bond by distinguishing love from longing. While love can be shared largely, missing someone discloses an intense, more personal connection shaped by presence and absence. The phrase resonates because it reflects a feeling many experience quietly in everyday life.

US natural gas prices today: US natural gas prices saw a significant jump on Monday. Forecasts predict much colder weather across the nation. This Arctic outbreak is expected to boost heating and electricity demand. Experts believe the price rise is tactical, driven by demand and short-covering. Predictions suggest prices will remain strong in the near future.

Bengaluru is set to embrace a return to paper ballots for its upcoming city corporation elections, a directive stemming from a recent Cabinet resolution. This choice arises amidst a growing national dialogue on the trustworthiness of electronic voting machines, even as other states such as Kerala and Maharashtra have navigated EVM usage effectively.

Social Security payments in 2026 depend on when you claim benefits and how much you earned over your working years. Small choices like waiting longer, fixing income records, or working part-time later can change your monthly check. Planning early helps people get more money and feel more secure during retirement.

President Donald Trump asserted on Truth Social that Rep. Ilhan Omar should be jailed or deported to Somalia, alleging her involvement in a Minnesota Somalia Fraud. Trump also accused Omar of hating the USA and suggested her actions, along with the governor's, distract from the alleged fraud. He further questioned Minnesota's stance on removing violent criminals.

Explore the best and worst foods for blood sugar control from berries, nuts, olive oil, and veggies to sugary drinks and ultra-processed snacks. Evidence-based tips for stable glucose by Dr Saurabh Sethi.

A fast-moving coronal mass ejection is anticipated to reach Earth, increasing the chance of a severe geomagnetic storm. NOAA forecasters have issued a G4 watch, which means auroras may spread much farther south than normal. Visibility relies on how the storms magnetic field aligns with Earth. Clear skies, low light pollution, and late-night hours will enhance viewing chances. The strongest activity is predicted overnight into early Tuesday.

Word of the Day: Hypothecation Hypothecation is a key financial term every borrower and investor should understand today. It means pledging an asset as loan collateral while keeping ownership and daily use. This system powers home loans, car loans, margin trading, and business financing worldwide.

The 56th World Economic Forum in Davos (Jan 19-23, 2026) is seeing India step onto the world stage with its biggest-ever delegation, a 10,000 sq ft India Pavilion, India is already a key driver of global growth, not just a long-term bet.

The Trump administration plans to immediately reimpose tariffs if the Supreme Court strikes down existing ones enacted under emergency law. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated the administration would implement new levies the day after a ruling. This Supreme Court case represents a significant challenge to presidential authority.

The new Responsible Nations Index has crowned Singapore as its leader, while India shines in 16th place. Launched by ex-President Ram Nath Kovind, this global initiative assesses nations based on their responsible use of power, considering impacts on their citizens, global dynamics, and environmental health.

India has been invited by US President Donald Trump to join a new 'Board of Peace'. This board aims to bring lasting peace to Gaza and address global conflicts. Experts note a lack of clarity on the board's structure and mandate. India will carefully consider the proposal.

China has requested the WTO's dispute settlement body to establish a panel to examine its case against India's incentive schemes for auto, battery, and electric vehicles. Bilateral consultations failed to resolve the dispute, with China alleging the schemes violate global trade rules by discriminating against its goods.

Coronal hole on the Sun: A massive, inverted '1'-shaped coronal hole on the Sun, stretching a million kilometers, is currently facing Earth. This phenomenon, linked to the Sun's approaching solar minimum, is releasing a high-speed solar wind stream. Scientists anticipate increased magnetic storms and potential auroras as a result of this and other recent solar activity.

Addressing a Telugu diaspora meeting in Zurich, Switzerland as part of his four-day visit to the Alpine nation for the 2026 edition of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, the chief minister announced a Rs 50 crore corpus fund meant to catapult non-resident Telugus (NRTs) into industrialists.

The European Union, Russia, Belarus, and Thailand are invited to join President Trump's new Gaza peace plan board. Israel objects to the initiative, calling it detrimental. The board will oversee Hamas disarmament and Gaza reconstruction. Meanwhile, humanitarian efforts continue amidst a fragile situation. Israeli forces conduct operations in Hebron.