The Economic Times

Beijing on Thursday unveiled a slightly lower growth target of 4.5%-5% for 2026, down from last year's 5%, which was met largely through a one-fifth surge in its trade surplus to a record $1.2 trillion.

A business writer, laid off for the third time due to AI's impact, sought a new, less sedentary trade at 47. Reddit users suggested various skilled trades and technical roles, with city bus driver emerging as a surprisingly popular and practical option, offering stable pay and benefits.

Corey Harrison, known for appearing on the reality TV series Pawn Stars, is asking fans for help after a devastating motorcycle accident in Tulum, Mexico. The crash left him with serious injuries, including 11 fractured ribs, a punctured lung, a concussion, and internal bleeding. Medical treatment and multiple surgeries pushed his hospital bills beyond $100,000.

Polls show that a plebiscite on Sunday sparked by campaigners seeking to legally enshrine the availability of physical money will probably win enough backing to pass in some form, in a result that would contrast with consumers increasing enthusiasm for digital transactions.

Gasoline prices in the US have reached their highest point during President Trump's tenure. This surge is driven by disruptions in West Asia affecting energy supplies. Saudi Arabia has significantly increased oil prices for Asian buyers. Experts predict a potential shutdown of Gulf energy exports, driving oil prices to $150 per barrel.

The Quote of the Day by Jane Fonda shares a simple message about personal growth and self-improvement. The famous actress and activist believed people can always learn and improve their weaknesses. Her life in films, activism, and public work shows how change and learning can happen at any stage of life, inspiring many people around the world today.

Home-cooked vegetarian thali costs held steady in February. Non-vegetarian thali prices dropped three percent. Lower onion, potato, and pulse prices balanced rising tomato costs for vegetarian meals. Broiler prices, a major component of non-veg thalis, declined. Vegetable prices are expected to ease. West Asia tensions may impact basmati rice exports.

John Lennons quote, There are two basic motivating forces: fear and love, emphasizes the main elements behind human behavior. Fear pushes people toward caution, avoidance, and self-protection, while love inspires connection, creativity, and courage. This duality shapes decisions, actions, and relationships in both personal and professional life. By recognizing which force is influencing us, individuals can choose paths that foster growth, empathy, and fulfillment

The United States has authorized the import of Venezuelan gold. This move follows a visit by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and signals a thawing of relations. Diplomatic ties are being restored after the removal of Nicolas Maduro. Venezuela possesses significant mineral wealth beyond oil, including gold and diamonds. Many companies are showing interest in investing in the country.

The Weekly Horoscope for March 915 highlights a gradual shift toward progress as Jupiter Retrograde ends. While the cosmic atmosphere begins opening new doors, the lingering effects of Mercury retrograde suggest that thoughtful planning and reflection remain important.

Dillon Brooks, the Houston Rockets forward, is again in the news after reports of a DUI arrest in Scottsdale. Fans are also talking about his NBA salary, net worth, and luxury lifestyle. Brooks has earned millions through contracts with Memphis and Houston while also investing in businesses and buying expensive cars and homes as he builds his financial future.

In a trade notice, the DGFT said that new MSMEs, involved in international value chains through e-commerce with prior domestic e-commerce experience shall also be eligible, subject to a minimum of one year of regular domestic e-commerce operations.

Quote of the day by J. Robert Oppenheimer: At 5:29 a.m. on July 16, 1945, the New Mexico desert turned white. A 21,000-ton TNT blast ripped the sky open. The man who built it stood and watched in silence. J. Robert Oppenheimer, scientific director of the Manhattan Project, did not celebrate. He whispered a line from the Bhagavad Gita Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds and the nuclear age began. His bomb killed between 129,000 and 226,000 people within weeks. The U.S. government gav

Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi highlighted the need for nations to develop their own defense industries. He stressed upgrading technology during production and being ready for rapid adaptation. Admiral Tripathi noted that the idea of short, decisive wars may be questionable. He also mentioned India's focus on self-reliance and co-development in the defense sector.

Vituperate is a strong English verb that means to criticize someone with very harsh and angry words. The word is often used in formal language, debates, and strong arguments. It comes from Latin roots connected to blame and fault. The term has been used in English for hundreds of years and is still used today to describe very aggressive criticism.

Haryana Police have filed an FIR against rapper Badshah following a complaint alleging objectionable lyrics and visuals in his Haryanvi music video 'Tateeree'. The complaint, which led to the FIR under relevant legal sections, also prompted the Haryana State Commission for Women to summon the musician for clarification on the song's content and its portrayal of a school-like setting.

A Delhi court has postponed the bail hearing for three Indian Youth Congress workers. They were arrested in connection with the AI Summit protest. Their judicial custody has been extended. The court is awaiting a verification report for another accused's bail. The investigation is ongoing.

Achluophobia is the intense fear of darkness, affecting both children and adults. Unlike simple unease in low light, it can trigger anxiety and avoidance behaviors. It can happen in everyday situations such as walking down dark hallways, entering basements, or camping at night. Recognizing and understanding achluophobia helps normalize the fear and encourages strategies to manage it effectively.

Russia is reportedly sharing intelligence on US military assets with Iran. This comes as tensions escalate in the Middle East. Iran has launched retaliatory strikes following recent attacks. The conflict has impacted regional stability and led to US military casualties. Russia's actions could further complicate the ongoing geopolitical situation.

Hundreds of supporters took to the streets across Nepal, singing, dancing, and celebrating as former Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Balendra Shah's party, Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), claimed an absolute two-thirds majority in the parliamentary election in the country's House of Representatives as counting continues.

The 2026 Winter Paralympics are set to begin on Friday, March 6, in Milan and Cortina dAmpezzo, Italy, featuring over 600 para athletes competing in six sports. NBC and its affiliates will provide extensive live TV coverage and streaming on Peacock, with the opening ceremony starting at 1:30 p.m. ET.

Charles Dickens, a renowned 19th-century writer, penned a quote urging kindness. His words advise a heart that stays soft, a temper that endures, and a touch that avoids harm. These virtues remain vital today. Dickens' life experiences fueled his advocacy for social justice. His novels like 'Oliver Twist' and 'A Christmas Carol' highlight these enduring human qualities.

Casimir Pulaski, a hero of the American Revolutionary War, famously declared his commitment to defending freedom. His words, 'I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it,' resonate today.

Iran war: The American military's engagement in Iran serves as a proving ground for cutting-edge artificial intelligence. By enhancing intelligence analysis and optimising target selection, AI enables commanders to act decisively and swiftly. Nonetheless, the ultimate authority rests with human leaders, who oversee and validate each strike.

Sri Lanka denounced the toll of Middle East fighting on Friday as it gave refuge to more than 250 Iranian sailors two days after a deadly torpedo strike on another of Iran's ships. Wednesday's attack was the first military strike far outside the Middle East since the United States and Israel launched their war on Iran on Saturday.

Big news for Punjab! On April 1, 2026, electricity prices will take a nosedive for both homes and enterprises. Domestic customers will see their rates drop by as much as Rs 1.50 per unit, and businesses wont be left behind, with lower tariffs easing operational costs.

The Maharashtra government will transfer fifty leopards to the Vantara wildlife rescue and conservation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This move aims to boost conservation efforts for leopards. It also addresses growing concerns about human-leopard interactions in Maharashtra. The forest department finalized this arrangement after discussions with Vantara management. Further details on the transfer timeline and procedures are expected soon.

Four opposition parties in Assam have united to launch a joint campaign for the 2026 Assembly elections. The alliance aims to defeat the ruling BJP. Coordinated campaign meetings will soon be held across the state. Talks are ongoing to include more parties. This united front signals a strong challenge to the BJP's dominance in Assam.

Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28, 2026, in a joint US-Israeli military strike targeting senior Iranian leadership. Israel reportedly used an advanced missile from space called the Blue Sparrow, capable of striking targets up to 2,000 kilometers away. The operation also resulted in the deaths of over 40 senior Iranian officials.

Indian government sources have strongly refuted claims that the Indian Navy shared intelligence with the US regarding an Iranian frigate. The vessel, IRIS Dena, was sunk by a US submarine near Sri Lanka. Iran has condemned the attack, calling it a war crime. The IRIS Dena had previously participated in India's Milan naval exercise.

Once 50 members of the House stand up upon being called by the Chair, the notice will be considered as admitted. Then the resolution will be discussed and voted upon.

Understand the meaning of lackadaisical. This word describes a relaxed or unenthusiastic attitude towards tasks. It can impact work, studies, and relationships. Recognizing this mindset helps in making positive changes. Synonyms include indifferent and lazy. Lackadaisical behavior is seen in everyday situations like missing deadlines or ignoring assignments. A little effort makes a big difference.

India is vulnerable to energy supply shocks, with crude oil stocks covering only about 25 days of demand and about 40% of its petroleum imports flowing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Following criticism of his Mumbai concert, Punjabi artist Karan Aujla is offering a free additional show to fans who attended the March 3 event. New tickets for this Mumbai 2.0 concert go on sale March 8. Original ticket holders receive complimentary access, with category upgrades available. The initial show faced fan complaints regarding arrangements.

Get ready for a cosmic show! Skywatchers have a chance to witness Venus and Saturn arriving unusually close in the western sky. This celestial pairing is visible for a brief time following the sunset. Though they appear close from Earth, they remain around 900 million miles apart. Venus will be visible all summer, while Saturn fades, reappearing as a morning star in April.

Michael Jordans famous quote talks about the value of hard work and dedication in life. The basketball legend became successful through effort, discipline, and strong determination. His career shows that real achievements take time and commitment. The quote reminds people that success does not come from shortcuts but from consistent work, learning, and never giving up on goals.

Young professionals are experiencing health problems in their early thirties due to lifestyle choices made in their twenties. A viral Reddit post highlighted how long work hours, poor sleep, and bad posture are causing persistent pain. Experts explain this is due to prioritizing immediate rewards over long-term health.

US diesel prices today: Fuel prices are climbing, with diesel seeing a sharper increase than gasoline. Global tensions are disrupting oil markets and key shipping corridors. This impacts diesel, the primary fuel for US freight transport. Higher diesel costs can eventually affect consumer prices for everyday items. Oil prices are also rising amid the ongoing conflict.

US retail sales saw a slight dip in January. Government data revealed a 0.2 percent decrease, falling short of analyst forecasts. This slowdown is attributed partly to severe winter weather impacting consumer activity. However, experts anticipate a rebound in February, boosted by tax refunds and stimulus measures. Rising fuel prices remain a concern for future inflation.

US stock market crash today began with a hard shock. The Dow Jones plunged 902 points to 47,051 within minutes of opening. The S&P 500 dropped 1.63% to 6,719. The Nasdaq fell 1.49% to 22,408. Markets reacted fast. Oil prices surged near two-year highs. WTI crude jumped above $89 per barrel after rising more than 10% in one session. The US jobs report added pressure. Nonfarm payrolls fell 92,000 in February while unemployment rose to 4.4%. Investors fear slowing growth and rising energy costs. Wa

Michael Jordan's quote highlights the importance of trying new things. Fear of failure often stops people from pursuing goals. This message is relevant today in a rapidly changing world. Taking chances leads to learning and improvement. Persistence is key. The real regret comes from not attempting opportunities at all.

Iran war: Donald Trump on Friday demanded Iran's unconditional surrender as the only acceptable outcome to end hostilities, while promising to help rebuild the country's economy if Tehran complied and installed new leadership. There will be no deal with Iran except UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.