The Economic Times

Azerbaijan is preparing to retaliate after Iranian drones struck Nakhichevan Airport and a school. Two civilians were wounded in the midday attacks. The foreign ministry summoned the Iranian envoy to protest the violation of international law. Azerbaijan vows to protect its territorial integrity and sovereignty. These attacks will not go unanswered.

Defending champions India are set to face England in the second semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Mumbais iconic Wankhede Stadium this Thursday. Former England pacer Stuart Broad has identified this one player as the huge danger for the Three Lions, emphasizing that his aura and effortless power hitting could propel India past the 200-run mark if not dismissed before the death overs.

The current global shipping crisis is hitting Indian rice exporters hard, forcing the Indian Rice Exporters Federation to call on the government for immediate support. As they grapple with a severe lack of containers, unexpected vessel cancellations, and skyrocketing shipping costs, the domestic market is feeling the squeeze with rising prices and strained cash flow.

A Bengaluru tech professional, Sushma, died by suicide at her residence. Police are investigating allegations of dowry harassment by her husband, Puneeth Kumar, and in-laws. Sushma's family claims frequent quarrels preceded the incident. Her husband is in custody for questioning. The couple had a four-year-old son. The investigation is ongoing.

In a striking accusation, Russia asserts that the U.S. and Israel are purposefully agitating Iran to ensnare Arab countries in a broader conflict across the Middle East. Amid these fraught exchanges, Iran has retaliated with drone and missile assaults on crucial oil infrastructure.

3i Atlas update: It is only the third known interstellar object observed passing through the solar system, offering rare insights into material from another star system.

Saaniya Chandhok and Arjun Tendulkar tied the knot today at St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai and the high-profile wedding was attended by many Bollywood stars. Saaniya Chandhok is the granddaughter of Ravi Ghai, whose Graviss Group operates popular ice-cream brands like Baskin Robbins and Brooklyn Creamery. Saaniya launched Mr Paws Pet Spa & Store in Mumbai in 2022. Reports suggest that Saaniya Chandhok and Arjun Tendulkar knew each other through Mumbai's elite circles.

As tensions rise in Iran due to US and Israeli interventions, India's economy finds itself at a crossroads. Unlike direct price hikes, the real concern lies within broader economic stability, leading the Reserve Bank of India to likely maintain lower interest rates. The repercussions of elevated oil prices and interrupted gas supplies are reverberating through the markets.

Thursday witnessed a series of explosive events across the Gulf region, as Doha, Qatar echoed with blasts following Iranian strikes. The situation prompted an immediate diplomatic conversation between Qatar's prime minister and Iran's foreign minister. Not far away, Manama, Bahrain experienced similar turbulence, while Saudi Arabia demonstrated its military prowess by intercepting various missile threats.

Why are US stock market index futures down today and Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq in red now? Wall Street futures moved lower as investors reacted to Middle East war developments, rising oil prices and inflation concerns. Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures fell while markets wait for economic data and Federal Reserve signals.

Mohammad Arif from Jharkhand has hand-crafted a Maruti 800 into a Lamborghini-inspired replica for around Rs 4 lakh. The custom build features fiberglass body panels, a wide stance, and a striking neon green finish, along with a sporty two-seater interior and sunroof. This unique creation has gone viral online, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and social media users alike.

Maharashtra is poised for an economic boom, with projections indicating a growth rate of 7.9 percent for 2025-26, outpacing the national average. The state's services sector is primed to drive this growth forward. With a Gross State Domestic Product anticipated to hit Rs 51 lakh crore, Maharashtra remains a magnet for investment, supported by a robust financial framework.

Germany's economy could face a significant blow of 40 billion euros over the next two years. Projections indicate that rising oil prices, stemming from the Iran conflict, threaten economic recovery. Higher oil costs could reduce Germany's GDP by 0.3% in 2026 and 0.6% in 2027. If oil prices surge further, the economic impact could exceed 80 billion euros.

Speaking at a Joint Press Meeting at Hyderabad House alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Stubb said the world is currently witnessing a transition in the global order, with countries of the Global South playing a crucial role in shaping its direction.

Israel faces a staggering NIS 9.4 billion weekly economic loss due to ongoing war restrictions. The Finance Ministry is pushing for a gradual reopening of businesses and workplaces. This move aims to balance crucial security needs with the urgent demands of the economy. The current broad shutdown carries heavy costs.

In a recent address, Rahul Gandhi took aim at Prime Minister Modi, pointing out that the unrest in West Asia is having repercussions on India's immediate interests. He raised alarms about potential disruptions to India's oil supply lines, referencing the sinking of an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean as a concerning development.

Iran war: A report by Politico based on an internal Pentagon notification indicates that US Central Command has requested additional military intelligence officers to support operations against Iran for at least 100 days -- and potentially through September.

Sri Lanka is addressing a second Iranian ship in its waters. This follows a U.S. submarine strike that sank an Iranian warship, killing 87 sailors. Sri Lanka is working to ensure the safety of those on board the new vessel. The IRIS Dena, the sunk warship, had participated in an Indian naval exercise. Search for missing sailors continues.

Bihar's political landscape shifted as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar made headlines by filing his nomination for the Rajya Sabha, joined by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The event saw a flurry of nominations from other NDA party members, reinforcing their unity.

The United States and Canada detected two Russian military aircraft near the US state of Alaska on Wednesday, the joint US-Canadian North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) said. The Russian aircraft remained in international airspace and did not enter American or Canadian sovereign airspace, NORAD said in a statement.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his government's handling of the Middle East crisis, calling it a eckless abdication of India's strategic and national interests and accusing the PM of surrendering India's foreign policy.

The Punjab Subordinate Services Selection Board's application window for 197 Excise and Taxation Inspector posts closes on March 6, 2026. Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree, Punjabi at matriculation, and basic computer knowledge, with age limits between 18 and 37. The selection involves a 100-mark objective written exam with negative marking.

Canadian businesses face critical labour shortages as new federal limits on temporary foreign workers take effect, forcing many to leave. Despite a low unemployment rate, sectors like manufacturing and hospitality are struggling to fill positions. The government aims to reduce temporary worker numbers by 2027, prioritizing skilled immigration to address the gap.

Large-format live concerts are proving to be significant economic drivers in India. Diljit Dosanjh's recent tour generated an estimated Rs 943 crore, boosting tourism, hospitality, and allied sectors. Similarly, Coldplay's Ahmedabad concerts had a Rs 641 crore economic impact, showcasing the growing power of live events to stimulate widespread spending and employment.

India and Finland are on the path to an enhanced alliance, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Alexander Stubb embrace a strategic partnership tailored for the future. Their focus on digital innovation and sustainability holds promise for transformative projects in high-tech realms like AI, next-generation 6G networks, renewable energy, and quantum mechanics.

IND vs ENG Playing 11: As India faces England in a high-stakes T20 World Cup semi-final at the Wankhede, we analyze the predicted lineups, the battle of spinners vs. power-hitters, and key team news for both sides.

A tragic incident in eastern Congo has resulted in the loss of at least 200 lives following a mine collapse at the Rubaya site, currently controlled by the M23 rebel group. Despite claims from rebel officials that only five individuals perishedpointing to bombings as the causeminers on the ground report a much higher toll, with over 200 bodies recovered.

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana joins Barbie's first-ever Dream Team. She is the first cricketer to receive a doll in her likeness. This honor celebrates her achievements in women's cricket. Mandhana is recognized for her significant contributions and influence. She represents India in this global initiative. The doll marks a milestone for women in sports.

In a tense development in southern Iraq, a high-ranking commander from the Iran-backed Kataeb Hezbollah militia has lost his life, with claims of a targeted 'Zionist-US strike' surfacing from the group.

Explosions and fighter jets were heard over Tehran on Thursday. Israel announced a large-scale wave of strikes against infrastructure in the Iranian capital. Local media also reported blasts in Tehran and its western outskirts. Smoke was seen rising from southern Tehran. This follows earlier strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran.

Italy will send air defence assistance to Gulf countries hit by Iranian strikes in retaliation for US-Israeli attacks, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Thursday. Italy, like the UK, France and Germany, intends to send aid to the Gulf countries.

America's Air Force Global Strike Command successfully launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile. The test missile traveled thousands of miles to a target in the Marshall Islands. This launch, scheduled years ago, validates the weapon system's performance and reliability. Data collected will support future force development. The Minuteman III remains on alert as plans advance for its replacement.

Concerns have been raised after a post on X highlighted how a paneer packet puffed up even though it had two weeks left to expire. You can test paneer at home to identify whether it is real or fake. You can identify fake paneer at home using simple tests such as the hot water test, vinegar test, burn test, texture test, freezer test and iodine test, which help detect differences in softness, smell, reaction.

The United States and India are on the brink of finalising a landmark trade agreement. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau confirmed that the deal is nearing completion. Once ratified, this pact promises to enhance economic relations and bolster trade opportunities for both countries, fostering closer ties and shared objectives on security issues.

Why is gold price rising while silver is falling rapidly, and will the precious metals continue to react unexpectedly to Middle East conflict? Investors moved money into gold after the Middle East conflict expanded. Gold prices moved higher due to safe-haven demand. Silver, platinum, and palladium moved lower. Markets now watch U.S. data and interest-rate signals.

In a shocking turn of events, militants launched a coordinated assault on two Nigerian army bases in Borno state, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 14 soldiers and multiple injuries. The attackers, believed to be connected to ISWAP, targeted facilities in Ngoshe and Pulka, looting vital weapons and ammunition.

Sri Lanka is trying to safeguard lives on another Iranian ship off its coast. The vessel was in the economic zone beyond the South Asian island nation's territorial waters.

How to fly out of Middle East safely, and which airlines are still running flights in region? Airlines have reduced services as conflict affects airspace. Some carriers continue limited operations through safe corridors or special flights. Travelers must check routes, airline updates, and airport advisories before planning evacuation or travel from the region.

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Finnish President Alexander Stubb arrives in New Delhi. During his visit, he had a substantial meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the iconic Hyderabad House. The discussions were complemented by a dialogue with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Israel-Iran war: A watchdog group has claimed US commanders framed the Iran war as part of Gods divine plan, with one alleging troops were told Trump was anointed by Jesus to trigger Armageddon. The Military Religious Freedom Foundation claims it has received over 200 complaints. The complaint states that the commander told the officers that President Donald Trump had been anointed by Jesus to light the signal fire in Iran to cause Armageddon and mark his return to Earth.

A Russian drone struck a Panama-flagged ship carrying corn near Ukraine's Chornomorsk port. The vessel was leaving the port when it was hit. Some crew members sustained injuries. Ukraine relies heavily on its Odesa port hub for exports. Russia has been targeting Ukraine's maritime export routes, impacting businesses and global trade.

Nominations are being filed for Rajya Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Key candidates from AIADMK, DMK, Congress, BJP, and Trinamool Congress have submitted their papers. Polling for 37 seats across 10 states is scheduled for March 16. The terms of current members conclude in April, paving the way for new representatives.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will contest the Rajya Sabha polls. This move follows his announcement to step down as CM. The Congress party has labeled the development a 'leadership coup' and a 'betrayal' of the people's mandate. Kumar expressed gratitude for public trust and pledged continued cooperation with the new government.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged Israel to continue its operations until completion. He affirmed that the United States stands with Israel. This statement came during overnight discussions with Defense Minister Israel Katz. Katz expressed gratitude for significant US aid in protecting Israeli citizens from Iranian missile threats. The US commitment to Israel's defense remains strong.

Nothing is set to host a global launch event today, March 5, 2026, at 4:00 PM IST to unveil the Nothing Phone 4a and Phone 4a Pro. . The series will be available via Flipkart in India, where a dedicated microsite has already gone live to capture consumer interest ahead of the official reveal. Key highlights include a 5,080 mAh battery with 50W charging for the Pro variant, alongside the rumored debut of the Nothing Headphone (a) over-ear set.

The US released footage of a Mark-48 torpedo sinking Iran's IRIS Dena frigate in the Indian Ocean, killing over 80 sailors. This dramatic event, the first enemy ship sinking by a US torpedo since WWII, escalates regional tensions amid ongoing conflicts across the Middle East.

A South African woman, known as 'Cupcake Girl', shared an emotional video after the Proteas' T20 World Cup semi-final defeat. She questioned the team's inability to win high-pressure matches despite possessing world-class talent. The woman appealed to coach Shukri Conrad to consider mental therapy for the players.