The Economic Times

Savita Pradhan fought poverty and abuse to crack India's toughest exam, UPSE and her journey was full of severe hardships and challenges. She revealed she suffered physical abuse at the hands of her husband who even urinated in a bucket and threw it on her. Savita was denied food by her husband and in-laws and she would hide chapatis under her undergarments to eat in the bathroom. Yet, she fought all odds and cracked UPSE, sending a powerful message that hard work and determination can overcome

Why are US stock market futures down today, and will Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq stay in red or turn green again? Wall Street futures fell after failed talks between the United States and Iran. Oil prices crossed $100 again. Inflation fears rose. Investors moved to safe assets. Earnings season is starting. Travel stocks dropped while energy stocks gained. Markets now watch geopolitics and corporate earnings.

A new law amends transgender rights, replacing self-identification with medical board approval. Maya Thakur, a transgender icon, argues this excludes those not part of traditional communities. She calls for amendments to protect independent transgender individuals seeking respectable employment. The law aims to penalise abuse but makes legal recognition harder.

Consumers are cutting back on non-essential purchases due to global tensions and job worries. Indian households are prioritising savings and value-driven goods. Companies have seen demand for luxury items weaken, with only essential product sales remaining steady. Rising input costs have pushed up prices for many goods. Hiring freezes and job cuts have added to the cautious mood.

Global fuel costs are set to rise as the US threatens a naval blockade on Iran. Tehran warns consumers will feel the impact. Direct US-Iran talks occurred recently. The US military will enforce the blockade impartially. Iran seeks a balanced agreement and international law adherence. Negotiations continue with uncertainty.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated 19 states and the Centre are opposing her. She asserted she is fighting for the common people. Banerjee predicted the Trinamool Congress will win over 226 seats in the upcoming West Bengal assembly elections. She also alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' influences young minds.

Attention has turned to Uganda army chief's wife Charlotte Nankunda Kainerugaba after an old post of Muhoozi Kainerugaba has resurfaced in which he has praised her and called her the most beautiful woman on earth. The post has gone viral at a time when the Uganda Army Chief has demanded 1 $1 billion from Turkey and the most beautiful woman in the country as his wife.

Starting your morning with flaxseeds provides six essential health benefits, including improved digestion, stabilized blood sugar, and hormonal balance. Rich in Omega-3s and lignans, these seeds act as a metabolic primer that ensures lasting satiety and cardiovascular protection, making them a must-have for a high-performance 2026 wellness routine.

A large adult black bear, known locally as 'Big Boy,' was discovered deceased on a residential road on the Sunshine Coast. The BC Conservation Officer Service is investigating the unusual circumstances surrounding its death, as there were no visible signs of injury. Experts and residents are concerned, as the bear appeared healthy after emerging from hibernation.

The Enforcement Directorate has escalated its investigation with simultaneous searches across Maharashtra, focusing on the self-proclaimed godman Ashok Kharat and his network. Active operations are taking place in key locations like Nashik, Pune and Shirdi.

Australia's financial intelligence agency, AUSTRAC, has flagged serious concerns regarding foreign banks. Weaknesses in controls and low reporting of suspicious transactions are allowing criminals to exploit the system. Money mule activity is also a significant risk, particularly through foreign subsidiaries. AUSTRAC is urging banks to enhance their anti-money laundering systems and improve transaction monitoring to safeguard the nation's financial integrity.

Security forces rushed to the Delhi Assembly on Monday following a bomb threat received via email. Delhi Police, bomb disposal units, dog squads, and the fire brigade were deployed. A thorough search of the premises was conducted. No suspicious items were found. The situation is under control. Investigations into the email's origin are ongoing.

Bhagyathara BT49 Lottery Result (13-04-2026): The Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Bhagyathara BT-49 weekly lottery today, April 13, 2026. The event will be held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring a grand first prize of 1 crore.

India is pushing for a Formula 1 racing event in 2027, as confirmed by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. The prestigious Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida is being eyed as the host venue.

Navigate the 2026 summer with the six best lightweight hair oils designed to protect against UV damage and humidity. From cooling Virgin Coconut oil to the non-greasy Jojope and Sweet Almond oils, this story highlights the essential oils needed to maintain a healthy scalp and frizz-free hair during the heat.

Anand Mahindra's Monday Motivation: In a post on Monday, Anand Mahindra recalled the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre, where hundreds of unarmed civilians were fired upon in Punjab's Amritsar. He shared an image of a commemorative stone, which he took during one of his visits, that had a simple chilling inscription that people were fired from here.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared a double engine government will be formed in Bengal on May 5. He warned Trinamool Congress goons to stay home on April 23 or face action. Shah promised to end mafia rule and establish law and order. He also vowed to drive out infiltrators from Bengal and across the country.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated West Bengal will respond to violence with votes. He predicted a BJP 'double-engine' government in the assembly elections. Shah also emphasized the election's purpose is to remove infiltrators. He assured adequate central forces are deployed for fair polls. Shah warned TMC workers to stay home on poll day or face jail.

Beat the summer heat in 2026 using six everyday household items designed for natural cooling. From using white cotton linens and vetiver blinds to harnessing the transpiration of indoor plants, these passive cooling strategies help lower room temperatures sustainably without relying solely on expensive and energy-intensive air conditioning systems.

The Supreme Court will examine a plea for biometric identification at polling stations. This system aims to prevent duplicate voting and ensure electoral integrity. The court will consider its implementation for future parliamentary and state assembly elections. Responses have been sought from the Centre, the Election Commission, and several states.

The Election Commission has appointed IPS officer Sarvana Vivek M as police observer for the upcoming West Bengal assembly elections. He will oversee police arrangements for the two-phase polls. Vivek, from the Odisha cadre, will be on deputation to the EC.

Amarnath Yatra 2026 will begin on July 3 and conclude on August 28, lasting 57 days. Registration opens on April 15 through online and offline modes. Devotees must obtain a Compulsory Health Certificate, and new safety measures include RFID tracking and 10 lakh accident insurance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is rallying for women's reservation within legislative assemblies by the year 2029. A special parliamentary session is on the horizon, ready to chart the course for this groundbreaking initiative. This pivotal shift aims not just at promoting women's development but at paving the way for leadership by women themselves.

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin urged voters to reject the AIADMK and its ally BJP. He stated that if voted to power, the AIADMK-led NDA would make the state retrogressive. Stalin appealed to the people to wisely choose the DMK combine to sustain the state's growth pace. He also promised a Rs 8,000 coupon scheme for homemakers.

Indias palm oil imports fell nearly 19% month-on-month in March to a three-month low of 689,462 tonnes, as higher global prices prompted refiners to delay purchases, according to the Solvent Extractors' Association of India.

Himachal Pradesh runner Sawan Barwal shattered the 48-year-old national marathon record at the NN Marathon Rotterdam, clocking 2:11:58. This remarkable achievement marks his debut marathon, surpassing Shivnath Singh's 1978 record. Barwal, an Armyman, showcased his dedication and years of training on the international stage.

Noida protest: Protests by factory workers in Noida demanding higher wages turned violent on Monday, with reports of vehicles being set on fire and properties vandalised in Phase-2 and Sector 60. The unrest highlights a growing wage gap with neighbouring Haryana, where monthly wages were recently hiked to 19,000 compared to 13,000 in Uttar Pradesh.

Middle powers, led by Pakistan and backed by China, brokered peace talks between the US and Iran, but failed to secure a deal. Despite the collapse, the effort highlights an emerging regional order driven by shared interests in stability and oil flow, though ultimate outcomes remain subject to great power rivalries.

A workers' protest in Noida over a salary hike turned violent on Monday, with demonstrators clashing with authorities and vandalizing property. The three-day agitation escalated as thousands took to the streets, leading to incidents of arson and traffic disruption. Authorities deployed heavy police presence and are working to restore normalcy.

NTA NEET UG 2026 city slips: The National Testing Agency has released the advance exam city intimation slip for NEET UG 2026 candidates, allowing them to plan travel arrangements. This slip confirms the exam city but is not the admit card, which will be released later.

Noida protest today: On Monday, a massive protest by factory workers in Noida turned violent, with agitators vandalising vehicles and throwing stones. Commuters were stuck in a traffic jam for hours due to the protest and many frustrated office goers took to X to vent out their anger. One of the netizens asked what kind of salary discussion this is, and the other one called the protest unethical.

India's rural economy faces a dual threat in 2026 from a potential below-normal monsoon and rising input costs due to the US-Iran conflict. This combination could significantly impact agricultural output, farmer incomes, and rural demand, potentially leading to increased food inflation and straining government finances.

Susan Coyle will take over as Australia's first female army commander in July 2026. This historic appointment marks a significant moment for the nation's military. Coyle brings three decades of experience, including deployments to Afghanistan and the Middle East. Her leadership will guide the army's ongoing transformation with modern combat tools. This achievement highlights progress in military leadership.

Protests by workers at Noida's Hosiery Complex demanding higher wages escalated into violence on Monday. Demonstrators vandalized vehicles and property, and engaged in stone-pelting with police. A car was also set ablaze during the unrest, prompting a significant police presence to restore order. This follows a Sunday meeting discussing worker welfare issues.

Iran war: Sri Lanka, Egypt, and Pakistan are struggling with rising energy costs. The Iran war has worsened their economic situations. These countries rely on energy imports, making them vulnerable. International bodies like the IMF are ready to provide emergency support.

CBSE Class 10 Results 2026 Date and Time: Students can expect CBSE Class 10 results to be announced tomororw, April 14, 2026, in view of the second board examinations. Students can check their results on results.cbse.nic.in, results.nic.in and cbse.gov.in. Class 10 CBSE results can also be checked on UMANG and DigiLocker app.

Talks led by JD Vance with Iran ended without a deal, but a 21-hour meeting helped build goodwill and improve communication between the two sides, according to a media report. U.S. officials believe this engagement could increase the chances of Iran accepting American terms, especially as Donald Trump moves ahead with a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to apply pressure.

Is Ambedkar Jayanti 2026 a national holiday? The answer is yes, as the Government of India recognises Ambedkar Jayanti, celebrated on April 14, as a public holiday. Tomorrow, most schools, banks, post offices, and government offices will remain closed on account of Ambedkar Jayanti. Digital banking will remain operational on April 14.

A speeding truck tragically killed seven people and injured others on the Lakhtar-Viramgam highway in Surendranagar, Gujarat. The incident occurred early Monday morning. A group of pilgrims walking from Rajkot to Bahucharaji were struck by the truck. Six pilgrims and a parked dumper driver lost their lives. The truck driver fled the scene. Authorities are searching for the driver.

Congress MP Manickam Tagore criticised the Centre's plan for the Women's Reservation Bill. He said the sequence should be Census, then delimitation, followed by reservation. Tagore alleged the government is changing this order for political gain.

The Australian government has launched a $20 million campaign encouraging fuel reduction and efficient driving habits amidst global energy disruptions and rising prices. Critics question its necessity, arguing motorists are already cutting back due to cost, while officials defend it as a precautionary measure for essential services and fuel security.

The defeat of Hungarys Prime Minister Viktor Orbn has drawn attention in the U.S. due to his close alignment with Donald Trump and his influence on conservative politics.

AP Inter Results 2026 Date: Students who appeared for the BIEAP Inter Exams for first and second year can expect the results on April 16, 2026. Students can check AP Inter Results 2026 on official websites bie.ap.gov.in, resultsbie.ap.gov.in and Manabadi. Students should keep their original Hall Ticket Number handy before checking BIE AP Inter results 2026.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which took place on April 13, 1919, remains one of the darkest chapters in India's colonial history. According to the Ministry of Culture, the massacre marked a turning point in India's freedom struggle and is remembered as a symbol of courage and resistance.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars journey to the UAE marked an important step in fortifying the strategic alliance between India and the Gulf nation. Meeting with President HH Mohamed Bin Zayed and HH Hamdan Mohammed, they deliberated on crucial topics such as energy dynamics and trade agreements.