The Economic Times
Elections 2026Company / The Economic Times
A viral video from Ranthambore National Park shows a tiger trapped by numerous safari vehicles, resembling a traffic jam. The incident has drawn criticism for stressing wildlife and raising concerns about safari management practices, highlighting the need for safe distances to protect animals.
The Reserve Bank of India said it anticipated crude oil prices to average USD 85 per barrel and the Indian rupee to trade at 94 against the US dollar in FY27. These projections are part of the central bank's latest Monetary Policy report. The report also details past trends, including the rupee's significant depreciation in FY26 due to outflows and global factors.
A meeting between the Trinamool Congress and the Election Commission concluded on a sour note. TMC leaders alleged the Chief Election Commissioner told them to 'get lost'. The Election Commission countered by stating TMC leaders were shouting. The poll panel assured that elections in West Bengal will be conducted without fear or violence.
Aristotle, a pivotal ancient Greek philosopher, shaped Western thought through his focus on empirical observation and practical reasoning, moving beyond Plato's abstract ideals. His works, like Nicomachean Ethics, explored virtue and the golden mean. His logical contributions, particularly syllogism, profoundly influenced intellectual traditions for centuries, cementing his status as a monumental thinker.
The Delhi High Court has rejected Christian Michel James's petition seeking his release from jail. James is an alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam. The court found no merit in his plea. He was extradited from Dubai in 2018. His continued detention is a key point of contention.
The Reserve Bank of India maintained its key interest rate and neutral stance, citing geopolitical risks from the West Asian conflict. While growth forecasts for FY27 were lowered and inflation projections raised, the RBI emphasized the potential impact on oil prices, agriculture, and global liquidity. The central bank aims to balance inflation control with economic growth.
Comedian Samay Raina has addressed the 2025 Indias Got Latent controversy in his latest stand-up special, Still Alive, detailing the internal and familial fallout following multiple FIRs. Raina revealed that despite his efforts to kill 99% of the germs by editing out problematic content from the Ranveer Allahbadia (BeerBiceps) episode, the remaining 1% triggered a massive backlash that led to the shows removal from YouTube.
The Consulate General of Iran in Mumbai has captured attention online with a friendly social media exchange. A user inquired about job opportunities on their media team. The consulate responded positively, expressing a desire to hire Indians in the future. This interaction highlighted a warm sentiment towards India.
Sridhar Vembu calls for a return to Tamil Nadu villages, citing empty homes and fading temples. He advocates for decentralized growth, believing villages can become economic hubs. Vembu is investing in rural Tamil Nadu, setting up offices and a campus, and funding a drone startup. His message sparks debate about rural revival and opportunity outside big cities.
Kerala enters a mandatory silence period before the April 9 Assembly polls. Candidates are now focusing on door-to-door visits and personal contacts. Over 2.71 crore voters will decide the fate of 883 candidates. Prohibitory orders are in place in sensitive areas. All arrangements are set for a smooth polling process across 30,495 stations.
The Reserve Bank of India plans to remove the investment fluctuation reserve requirement for commercial banks. Existing rules already provide sufficient protection for investments. This change aims to simplify regulations and ensure consistency across different bank types. Draft guidelines will be released for public feedback soon. The move is expected to streamline operations for financial institutions.
The Reserve Bank of India kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% with a neutral stance, as its policy panel voted unanimously in its first decision after the Middle East crisis began. The move reflects a wait-and-watch approach amid rising geopolitical tensions, a weakening rupee, and uncertainty over inflation and growth.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee filed her nomination papers for the Bhabanipur assembly seat on Wednesday, accompanied by a large number of supporters. The three-time MLA is set to face BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari in a crucial contest. Banerjee urged voters across all 294 seats to ensure a TMC victory.
The Reserve Bank of India emphasises the ramifications of the West Asia conflict on the nation's economy. Fluctuating energy prices, uncertainties in trade, and market volatility present emerging risks. While the country's foundational economic strengths are robust, the potential impact of external disruptions is worrisome.
The Reserve Bank of India is easing capital rules for banks. A key condition linking quarterly profits to capital adequacy based on NPA provisioning is being removed. The central bank also plans to eliminate the Investment Fluctuation Reserve. These changes aim to strengthen bank balance sheets.
Exporters welcome the ceasefire between the US and Iran. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz eases shipping disruptions and reduces costs. This brings immediate relief to Indian exporters trading with the Gulf region. However, exporters remain cautious due to the temporary nature of the truce. Sustained stability is crucial for restoring confidence and ensuring smooth trade flows.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticizes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy. He states Pakistan's role in the US-Iran ceasefire is a setback for Modi's diplomacy. Ramesh questions India's silence on West Asia conflict and Israel's actions. He highlights Pakistan's involvement despite its economic challenges. This raises questions about Modi's strategy.
Achieve the ultimate 3D shoulder look with these six essential deltoid workouts. By combining heavy compound presses with targeted isolation for the lateral and posterior heads, this guide provides the blueprint for building wide, capped, and powerful shoulders that define a fit and athletic physique in 2026.
The Reserve Bank of India flagged five key risks to the Indian economy, warning that ongoing global conflict and uncertainty could impact inflation, growth, and financial conditions.It said higher crude oil prices may push up imported inflation and widen the current account deficit, while disruptions in energy and commodity markets could hurt output across sectors.
Delhis unique mix of intense heat and monsoon rain triggers a series of physiological responses, from inefficient cooling and skin fungal growth to barometric headaches. This story explores seven ways your body adapts to the steam bath environment of the NCR, helping you manage fatigue and discomfort in 2026.
US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, attended a White House dinner with President Trump, discussing US-India ties and global stability. Gor also met with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to boost AI and pharma cooperation, and FBI Director Kash Patel to enhance efforts against transnational threats. He further engaged with Vice President JD Vance on bilateral relations.
Uttar Pradesh weather: The IMD has warned of rain, thunderstorms and strong gusty winds in multiple districts of Uttar Pradesh today, April 8, 2026. AS many as 60 UP districts are on orange alert and IMD has warned of moderate rain in Meerut, Bareilly, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddh Nagar and others. There are chances Lucknow might also receive rain on Wednesday.
Pakistan has emerged as a key player in brokering a US-Iran ceasefire, moving from early mediation to a public appeal that preceded the announcement. While China's influence is acknowledged, Pakistan's sustained diplomatic efforts, culminating in an invitation for talks in Islamabad, suggest a more visible role in securing the two-week truce.
Elevate your workday performance with six high-protein sprout breakfast stories. From the enzymatic boost of sprout chaat to the sustained satiety of moong dal chilla, these nutrient-dense, fiber-rich meals ensure you stay active, focused, and energized throughout a demanding 2026 schedule without the typical mid-day energy crash.
MPC Forex Level refers to the impact of Monetary Policy Committee decisions on currency exchange rates. Understand how RBIs interest rate decisions, inflation outlook, and repo rate changes influence forex markets, USD/INR movement, and trading strategies for investors and traders. India's foreign exchange reserves have seen a welcome rise, reaching $697.1 billion. This marks a recovery after recent significant drops.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Rajasthan on April 21. He will inaugurate the Pachpadra refinery in Barmer district. This refinery is a joint venture between HPCL and the Rajasthan government. It has a capacity of 9 million metric tonnes per annum. The project is expected to boost the economy of the Marwar region and the entire state.
US President Donald Trump envisions a Golden Age of the Middle East. He believes Iran is ready for peace and that the United States will help ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. This move aims to ensure stability in the vital shipping lane. Trump expressed confidence in regional reconstruction and economic opportunities.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized Donald Trump's statements on Iran. Pope Leo XIV deemed threats unacceptable. Trump halted attacks, announcing a ceasefire. Iran accepted the peace overture. A two-week pause in military operations offers hope for peace in West Asia. The conflict that began on March 28 is nearing an end.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's draft tweet has sparked debate online. Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's edited X post, showing a draft version, has sparked questions over Pakistan's Iran diplomacy, with many asking if the message was drafted by Trump team. Shehbaz Sharif had urged Donald Trump to extend his deadline on Iran, calling for a diplomatic pause.
The U.S. government has rejected requests from Ford Motor and other automakers for relief from aluminum tariffs, despite supply disruptions caused by fires at Novelis Oswego plant in New York, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
Iran Ceasefire News: A temporary halt in US-Iran hostilities has brought a ceasefire into focus, impacting global oil markets and potentially easing fuel prices in India. This pause offers relief to the Middle East, creating space for diplomacy, though its long-term stability remains uncertain. The situation also influences Pakistan's diplomatic standing and could soften gold prices.
Israel backs US President Donald Trump's plan to halt strikes on Iran for two weeks. This move is conditional on Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran must also cease all attacks on the US, Israel, and regional nations. Israel further supports US efforts to neutralize Iran's nuclear, missile, and terror threats.
NATO chief Mark Rutte will hold talks with Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday, one day after the United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire. The United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire Tuesday barely an hour Trump's deadline to obliterate the rival country was set to expire, with Tehran to temporarily reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz. ec/ub/bgs/md
Iran Ceasefire News: A last-minute ceasefire between Donald Trump and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz was brokered with Pakistan's help. However, a social media error by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, showing a 'Draft' tag on his X post, became the unexpected focus. This slip-up led to widespread online commentary and questions about the competence of the Pakistani leadership.
Kolkata weather update: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kolkata today, April 8, 2026 and has warned of rainfall, thunderstorms, squalls and strong winds. A yellow alert has been issued for tomorrow and rain is likely to continue. There will be clear skies in the city from April 11, according to the IMD.
US President Donald Trump confirmed Iran's uranium will be handled securely under a two-week ceasefire. He indicated this assurance was key to the agreement. Trump also suggested China played a role in bringing Iran to the negotiating table for a ceasefire with Israel and the United States. This development signals a potential shift in regional dynamics.
Iran news: Violence struck Iraq as projectiles claimed multiple lives, including a child. These events unfolded just before the United States and Iran reached a ceasefire agreement. Strikes targeted civilian homes in southern Iraq and Baghdad. A drone attack from Iran also resulted in civilian deaths in Iraqi Kurdistan. The violence highlights Iraq's involvement in regional conflicts.
RBI MPC Meeting Live Telecast: The Monetary Policy Committee of the Reserve Bank of India will announce its decision on interest rate and other key monetary policies on April 8. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra will give a statement on the Monetary Policy Committees decision. You can watch his address on the official YouTube channel and Twitter handle of the Reserve Bank of India.
The Reserve Bank of India will announce its monetary policy decision on Wednesday. The Monetary Policy Committee will decide on the repo rate. Global uncertainty is a key factor. Experts predict rates will remain unchanged. This is the first policy review since the West Asia conflict escalated. The central bank previously maintained status quo.
Asian markets surged on Wednesday following a ceasefire between the United States and Iran. This de-escalation eased fears of energy supply disruptions. Major benchmarks like South Korea's KOSPI and Japan's Nikkei saw significant gains. Global futures also rallied as oil prices eased, boosting investor confidence and expectations of steadier growth.
Delhi rain update: Delhi is likely to see rainfall and thunderstorms today, April 8, 2026 and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the capital. Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad are also likely to witness generally cloudy skies with one or two spells of rain along with thunderstorms on Wednesday.
This African proverb, If you heal the leg of a person, do not be surprised if they use it to run away. highlights a powerful truth about kindness and human nature. It describes that when you help someone grow, heal, or become independent, you cannot control how they will use that freedom. Rather than seeing this as betrayal, the proverb encourages acceptance and emotional maturity.
North Korea launched an unidentified projectile towards the sea on Wednesday. This follows a suspected ballistic missile launch detected on Tuesday. Pyongyang has made it clear it views South Korea as an enemy. This comes despite some in Seoul hoping for a thaw in relations. The two Koreas remain technically at war.
Russian satellites have surveyed dozens of military and critical sites across the Middle East. This imagery aided Iran in targeting U.S. forces and other locations. Russian and Iranian hackers are also collaborating in cyber operations. This marks a significant escalation in secret support from Russia to Iran. Intelligence indicates a clear pattern of strikes following satellite surveys.
The White House is exploring the possibility of direct discussions with Iran. These talks are not yet confirmed. Iran has stated its agreement to meet with the United States. The proposed meeting is scheduled to commence this Friday. Pakistan will host these significant discussions. Further details will be released by the President or the White House.

23 C