The Economic Times

The Ministry of External Affairs has stated it has no involvement in the upcoming film 'Battle of Galwan'. The movie, based on the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, has garnered significant attention. China's state media has criticized the film for allegedly distorting facts. The teaser features Salman Khan as an Indian Army officer.

Dakota Johnson and singer Role Model have reignited romance rumors after being captured together during another Los Angeles night out. Both were spotted arriving at a popular Beverly Hills restaurant, gaining attention for their coordinated appearance and easy going chemistry. The outing follows previous sightings from December, when the couple seemed to be close during a dinner with friends.

Union Budget News: The government is expected to set the fiscal deficit at 4.3 percent of GDP for the next financial year. Capital expenditure is projected for a significant increase. This comes as the focus shifts towards medium-term debt consolidation. The budget will also consider recommendations from the 16th Finance Commission. Market issuances are anticipated to rise sharply.

US stock market down again today. Dow and S&P 500 are in red while Nasdaq stays green. The Dow fell over 120 points, while the S&P 500 edged lower. The Nasdaq stayed slightly positive. Meanwhile, gold slid to $4,614 and silver dropped nearly 4%.

Dense to very dense fog has enveloped Uttar Pradesh, significantly disrupting visibility across numerous districts. The India Meteorological Department warns of persistent foggy conditions, particularly during late night and early morning hours, with temperatures dipping below normal in many areas.

A Delhi court has sent five individuals to judicial custody in connection with the Red Fort blast case. The accused include three doctors and a religious preacher. The National Investigating Agency is investigating the matter. The blast claimed fifteen lives. Two other accused have also had their custody extended. The NIA has arrested nine people so far.

Gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli faced a significant defeat as both his daughters lost their Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. His sister-in-law also failed to secure a win. The results mark a setback for the Gawli family's long-standing influence in the Byculla region. Gawli, recently released from prison, had actively campaigned for his daughters.

Sources said the ministry of labour and employment is considering making Labour Codes effective only from the next financial year (FY27) to coincide with India Incs financial cycle as the change in salary structure under the Codes could result in higher outgo towards provident fund and gratuity, thus impacting the balance sheets of the companies.

Sailormen Inc, a major Popeyes franchisee, filed for bankruptcy, putting 130 restaurants at risk. Debt, failed sales, Covid-19, inflation, and rent problems caused financial trouble. Popeyes supports the franchisee, keeping many restaurants open. Bankruptcy lets Sailormen restructure or sell assets to pay creditors. New CMO Matt Rubin will lead future growth.

Word of the Day: Life presents many confusing situations without easy answers. These are called conundrums. They involve difficult choices and unclear outcomes. Understanding these puzzles helps us grow. They reveal our values and encourage self-awareness. Navigating a conundrum is an experience to be understood, not just solved. It acknowledges complexity in our lives.

Many Americans in their 40s and 50s are checking their 401(k) savings as retirement feels closer. Average balances rise with age, but most people still fall short of early retirement needs. Experts warn that retiring early requires higher savings, careful planning, and extra money outside a 401(k).

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a major project to build the world's tallest Mahakal avatar of Lord Shiva idol in Siliguri. The 216-foot structure will be part of the Mahakal Mahatirtha Complex. This initiative aims to significantly boost religious tourism in north Bengal.

EPFO members will soon withdraw provident fund directly to bank accounts using UPI. This new system aims for a secure and quick transfer of funds. The labour ministry is working to resolve software issues for a smooth rollout. This initiative will benefit around eight crore members, simplifying access to their EPF money for various needs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Maharashtra voters as the Mahayuti alliance secured victory in state civic body elections. Early trends showed a strong BJP performance, with the alliance expected to control 25 out of 29 municipal corporations. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attributed the win to public trust in Modi and the alliance's development agenda.

A rare celestial spectacle awaits on August 2, 2027. The longest total solar eclipse in over a century will darken skies for up to six minutes and twenty-three seconds. This event will be visible across North Africa, parts of Spain, and the Middle East. India will experience a partial eclipse. Safe viewing practices are essential for this extraordinary phenomenon.

NYT Connections has distinguished itself from other daily puzzles by emphasizing misdirection and layered meanings. Words that appear to fit multiple groups often serve as deliberate traps, forcing players to reconsider assumptions and test alternate patterns.

The Bharatiya Janata Party secured a decisive victory in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections. Ajit Pawar's alliance with his uncle's faction failed to protect the Nationalist Congress Party's strongholds. The BJP's local leadership faced criticism during the campaign. Election results indicate a significant setback for Ajit Pawar's influence within the ruling alliance.

Social Security beneficiaries could see bigger checks in 2026 as new federal tax changes take effect. Starting January 26, 2026, seniors can claim a new $6,000 Senior Bonus deductionor $12,000 for couplesslashing taxable income. Coupled with a 2.8% COLA increase, this historic tax relief shields more Social Security income, potentially eliminating federal tax liability for nearly 90% of retirees this filing season.

Britain's Royal Navy has successfully tested its first large autonomous helicopter, named Proteus. This advanced aircraft is designed for dangerous missions, including tracking submarines. Its development comes amid rising tensions in the North Atlantic and increased defence spending by European nations. Proteus will help defend Britain and NATO allies against evolving threats.

Airbus and Naval Group have secured a significant contract to build six VSR700 drones for the French Navy. These advanced uncrewed aerial systems will enhance the navy's capabilities for intelligence and surveillance. The drones are slated for operation starting in 2028. This deal follows a previous framework agreement between the parties.

Jharkhand is set to showcase its critical minerals potential at the World Economic Forum in Davos and during a UK visit. The state aims to position itself as a key player in India's clean-energy economy by highlighting its rich reserves and commitment to responsible development and value-added manufacturing.

South Africa is investigating Iran's presence in BRICS+ naval drills near Cape Town. Reports suggest President Ramaphosa asked Iran to leave to protect ties with the United States. The defence ministry is examining if the President's orders were misunderstood or ignored. This comes as the US considers trade benefits for African nations. The US Embassy expressed concern over Iran's involvement.

Wordle is a daily word puzzle that challenges players to identify a hidden five-letter word in six tries. Developed in 2021 by software engineer Josh Wardle, the game quickly gained widespread popularity as users shared their colour-coded results on social media without giving away the answer.

A senior Iranian cleric has called for the execution of detained protesters. He also issued direct threats against US President Donald Trump. The cleric detailed damage to religious sites and public services during recent demonstrations. These protests began over economic issues and evolved to challenge the government. Iran intensified its crackdown following the unrest.

NATO chief Mark Rutte spoke with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy about recent Russian attacks causing power outages. They discussed the urgent need for more air defense systems. Zelenskiy expressed hope for increased supplies through the PURL program in January. Diplomatic efforts with the US and Europe are progressing to end the war.

A high-level delegation from GIFT City will attend the World Economic Forum in Davos. They will meet global business leaders, investors, and policymakers. Discussions will focus on international banking, fintech, and investment opportunities. GIFT City aims to attract global capital and expand its role as India's international financial hub. This visit highlights India's growing economic influence.

Pamela Anderson discloses that she and Tommy Lee no longer stay in contact, attributing the distance brought by his marriage while acknowledging she still misses him. Speaking on Andy Cohens show, she describes that despite previous closeness, boundaries and loyalty have shifted their dynamic. Anderson emphasizes that they continued to be connected through their sons and upcoming family events.

The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 begins in Davos on January 19. Global leaders, corporate chiefs, and policymakers will convene for five days. The summit focuses on dialogue, cooperation, innovation, and inclusive development. Nearly 3,000 leaders from over 130 countries are expected. This includes heads of state, senior political figures, and top executives from major global companies.

OTT platforms prioritise performance, depth, and realism. This shift has helped both seasoned and new-generation actors deliver their most impactful work.

The Reserve Bank of India has increased the compensation limit for customers to Rs 30 lakh for consequential losses and Rs 3 lakh for harassment, effective July 1, 2026. This move aims to provide meaningful relief to consumers while balancing the interests of regulated entities.

Amatorculistically is a long and unusual English word that comes from Latin origins. It is rarely spoken and mostly found in old books, dictionaries, and language websites. The word reflects how English has borrowed and reshaped terms over time. Today, it is mainly discussed as a curiosity in vocabulary and word history.

Russia's armed forces saw 422,704 contract sign-ups last year. This number is lower than the previous year. Dmitry Medvedev, a senior security official, shared these figures. Additionally, 32,000 individuals joined volunteer brigades to fight in Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin noted strong recruitment for drone operators.

Trump Accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for children under 18, established under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. They launch for contributions on July 4, 2026, with the government providing a one-time $1,000 deposit for newborns from 2025 to 2028. Managed by the Treasury, these aby bonds grow tax-deferred in low-fee U.S. index funds. With a $5,000 annual contribution limit and $2,500 tax-free employer matches, they aim to turn newborns into lifelong investors.

India's exports are showing strong positive growth in January. This is happening even with global economic uncertainties. The Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, shared this optimistic outlook. Official figures for January exports and imports will be released on February 15. This follows December's merchandise export growth and a trade deficit.

The Rajasthan Staff Selection Board is expected to release the Rajasthan Grade 4 Result 2025 soon for over 21 lakh candidates. The recruitment drive aims to fill 53,749 vacancies. Shortlisted candidates will proceed to the Document Verification stage with essential documents.

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a chargesheet against Jawad Ahmad Siddiqui, Chairman of Al Falah Group, and the Al Falah Charitable Trust. This action is part of an alleged money laundering investigation. The probe stems from Delhi Police FIRs concerning false accreditation claims by the university. Assets have been provisionally attached.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms release date, time, schedule and how to watch in US, UK, Canada and Australia explains when the HBO series premieres, episode dates, runtimes, platforms, cast details, story setting, and viewing options across regions for fans of the Game of Thrones universe.

iOS 26.2 update: Apple has issued an urgent warning to iPhone users about active cyberattacks exploiting critical iOS security flaws. Users must update to iOS 26.2 or iOS 18.7.3 immediately, or at least reboot their devices regularly to mitigate risks. Hundreds of millions remain vulnerable due to slow adoption rates of the latest software.

Lord's Mark Industries Ltd has achieved a significant milestone by securing US FDA registrations for 153 orthosurgical products, manufactured in their globally aligned facility. This accomplishment positions India as a trusted source for globally compliant healthcare solutions and strengthens the company's access to international markets.

India is in talks with the United States. This is to ensure its Chabahar Port plans continue. A US sanctions waiver is in place until April 26. This waiver is crucial for India's access to Afghanistan and Central Asia. The port is seen as a key trade and transit hub.

Ashton Kutcher returns to acting in The Beauty, an FX/Hulu suspense thriller created by Ryan Murphy. It centers on a revolutionary drug that offers flawless physical perfection while quietly resulting in deadly consequences.The story unfolds along with Kutchers red-carpet appearance at the New York premiere, sparking comeback rumors as the show evaluates obsession, power, morality, and price society bears for chasing beauty.

The Employees' State Insurance Corporation has seen significant registration under its SPREE scheme. Over 1.17 lakh new employers and 1.03 crore employees have enrolled. This special scheme, extended until January 31, 2026, offers a unique chance for unregistered entities to join the ESI framework without past dues or penalties. It promotes wider social security coverage across India.

Nicki Minajs quote of the day focuses on self-love, personal values, and confidence. The message says people should accept who they are and trust their own morals. Known for her bold music and strong personality, Nicki Minaj often shares messages about strength and self-belief. This quote connects with young people facing pressure and judgment today.