The Economic Times

Drivers buying new U.S.-assembled vehicles could unlock major tax savings in 2026. Trumps new tax law allows up to $10,000 in auto loan interest deductions. The IRS confirms eligibility applies even with standard deductions. Income limits apply. Purchase dates matter. Heres who qualifies, how much you can save, and what changes filing season expectations.

Oklo's stock soared Friday following a new pact with Meta Platforms, directly linking the nuclear firm to the tech giant's burgeoning AI infrastructure. This deal supports Meta's planned 1.2-gigawatt nuclear campus in Ohio, crucial for powering its AI data centers. The agreement highlights Meta's increasing reliance on clean, reliable nuclear energy for its AI ambitions.

Thought of the day by Sally Ride remains relevant in an era still grappling with gender representation across professions. Her words continue to serve as both encouragement and reminder that visibility matters, and progress often begins with one person daring to step forward.

Law Enforcement Appreciation Day 2026: January 9 marks National Law Enforcement Day. This day encourages citizens to show appreciation for police officers. Their work is difficult and involves risk. The day was created in 2015 by multiple organizations. C.O.P.S. led the initiative. It aims to counter negative portrayals of officers. Traditions include wearing blue and sending cards to departments. Honorary ceremonies are also held.

Brooklyn Beckham has reportedly limited contact with his parents, David and Victoria Beckham, requiring all communication happen through lawyers. The 26-year-old chef took the measure after feeling offended by media reports indicating that he was controlled by his wife, Nicola Peltz, and termed as a hostage. Social media blocks that involve his parents and younger brother Cruz emphasizes ongoing tensions.

Iran experienced a nationwide internet blackout on Thursday amidst widespread protests against dire economic conditions. Internet monitoring groups reported a near-total shutdown, a tactic previously used by the government during crises to quell dissent and limit information flow. Experts believe this shutdown aims to sever protesters' communication and suppress coverage of the ongoing demonstrations.

Dr. Nomal Chandra Borah, founder of GNRC Hospitals, received two national lifetime achievement awards for his contributions to neurology and nursing education. These honours from the Indian Academy of Neurology and the Association of Nurse Executive (India) recognize his nearly five decades of dedication to healthcare in Northeast India.

General Motors faces approximately USD 6 billion in charges due to slowing electric vehicle sales following the reduction of US tax incentives and eased emissions standards. This follows a USD 1.6 billion charge in the previous quarter, forcing a reassessment of ambitious EV transition plans.

Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi's recent tour to the UAE and Sri Lanka marked a significant leap forward in defense alliances. Through robust strategic discussions and collaborative capacity-building efforts, these interactions deepened mutual trust and operational synergy. India's commitment as a steadfast defense ally in the West Asian and Indian Ocean terrains has been underscored.

IRS Confirms 2026 Tax Filing Start Date: The IRS will officially begin accepting 2025 tax returns on January 26, 2026. This early start follows the One Big Beautiful Bill, introducing historic relief for millions. Taxpayers can access the IRS Free File program starting January 9. With over 160 million returns expected, filing electronically is essential. New o tax rules on tips and overtime, plus senior bonuses, could significantly boost your federal refund this year.

Kyvex, an AI platform, strengthens its leadership. Actor Rajat Bedi joins to lead business development and be the brand ambassador in India. He will focus on AI in entertainment. Ravindra Varna, an AI engineer, is appointed Chief Technology Officer. These moves aim to expand Kyvex's AI-first ecosystem across India and global markets.

Quote of the Day: Although frequently described as a science fiction author, Ray Bradbury rejected the label, maintaining that Fahrenheit 451 was the only work of his that truly fit the genre. He argued that much of his writing was rooted not in futuristic prediction, but in fantasy, symbolism and metaphor.

Prominent Indian-American entrepreneur Kanwal Rekhi calls US President Trump's immigration restrictions foolish, asserting that America needs Indian talent, especially in its competition with China. Rekhi believes this anti-immigration sentiment is temporary and that American voters will self-correct this policy in upcoming elections.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recognized ten officers for their exemplary service under the Right to Information Act. The event marked 20 years of the RTI Act's implementation. CM Dhami highlighted the Act's importance in fostering transparency and accountability. He emphasized the government's commitment to good governance through digital initiatives. This strengthens the bond between citizens and the administration.

Supreme Court decision on Trump tariffs: The U.S. tariff system enters 2026 under intense legal and economic pressure. As the Supreme Court weighs the legality of Trump 2.0 tariffs, importers are drowning in a 4,500-page regulatory maze. With over $200 billion already collected since 2025, a looming ruling on executive emergency powers could force $100 billion in immediate refunds. Businesses now navigate 17 different tariff measures, a staggering increase from just three in 2017.

NYT Connections is a daily word-association puzzle from The New York Times in which players face a grid of 16 words and must sort them into four distinct groups of four. Each group is linked by a concealed common thread, and every word belongs to only one category, despite often seeming to fit multiple possibilities at first glance.

New Delhi's reaction came against the backdrop of the killing of at least five Hindu men in hostile circumstances in Bangladesh in the last few weeks.

The Madras High Court has put a hold on a previous order concerning actor Vijay's film Jana Nayagan. This order had directed the censor board to issue a U/A certificate. The film's release date was January 9. Advance bookings saw high demand. Ticket sales faced issues. Industry disputes also impacted the release. The court's decision adds to the ongoing situation.

Wordle is a daily online word puzzle that tasks players with deducing a hidden five-letter word through logic and process of elimination. Introduced in 2021, the game presents the same challenge to players around the world each day, fostering a shared, global experience across time zones.

India has firmly countered the statements made by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick regarding stalled trade discussions. Officials affirmed that Prime Minister Modi and President Trump are in regular communication, with the Ministry of External Affairs underscoring ongoing high-level interactions.

Uttarakhand's 'Jan-Jan ki Sarkar, Jan-Jan ke Dwar' programme has organized over 300 camps across 13 districts. This initiative brings governance directly to citizens, addressing problems and facilitating access to welfare schemes. Over 1,97,000 citizens participated, with more than 16,000 complaints resolved on the spot. The programme aims to strengthen public trust and ensure transparent, accountable governance.

Uttar Pradesh is taking strides to improve its cow shelter infrastructure. As part of the plan, CCTV cameras are being installed in numerous shelters to ensure continuous monitoring. Additionally, several districts have activated centralized control rooms, which enable real-time oversight and significantly uplift cattle welfare.

Is Fortnite down: The January 9 update arrives midway through Chapter 6 Season 1, following a packed Winterfest schedule, and introduces fresh content, collaborations and gameplay changes. As with previous updates, Epic Games disabled matchmaking and access to the game during maintenance, affecting players worldwide.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee filed two complaints against the ED following raids on I-PAC and its chief. Kolkata and Bidhannagar Police registered FIRs, escalating the confrontation after Banerjee allegedly removed documents during the searches. The TMC also petitioned the Calcutta High Court against the ED's actions.

Calcutta High Court adjourned a hearing on Enforcement Directorate's search at I-PAC. Chaos in the courtroom led to the postponement. The court was to hear petitions from the ED and Trinamool Congress. This followed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's allegations of data seizure. The TMC sought to prevent data misuse. The ED alleged interference and sought a CBI probe.

Bollywood 'perfectionist' Aamir Khan, one of the finest actors in the country, has won the hearts of the audience with his impressive and memorable performances in 'Dangal', '3 idiots', 'Lagaan', and more. Known for giving the perfect shot, Aamir Khan, in one of his quotes, says he does what his heart feels right and is not afraid to take a new route. The quote serves as motivation for anyone facing crossroads in life.

President Trump announced the cancellation of a second wave of attacks on Venezuela, citing cooperation from the South American nation. He stated that the U.S. and Venezuela are collaborating well, with significant investments anticipated from major oil companies. However, all oil tankers in Venezuela will remain in place for safety and security.

Delhi Police have arrested another individual in connection with the Turkman Gate stone-pelting incident. This brings the total number of arrests to twelve. Security forces remain on high alert in and around the area. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have deployed significant personnel. Investigations are ongoing, including the examination of social media activity.

China has started limiting exports of rare earths and powerful magnets to Japanese firms. This move affects many Japanese industries, not just the military. The Chinese commerce ministry stated that civilian users will not be impacted by a ban on dual-use items. This action follows recent tensions between Beijing and Tokyo.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has called for national unity. This comes as protests over economic issues spread across the country. The exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi urged citizens to demonstrate. Authorities have responded by cutting internet and phone access. Crowds have taken to the streets chanting slogans against the ruling clerics.

Gujarat's Saurashtra region experienced at least 12 tremors, with magnitudes ranging from 2.6 to 3.8, between Thursday night and Friday afternoon. Residents in Rajkot district's Upleta, Dhoraji, and Jetpur talukas were gripped by fear, with many seeking refuge in open fields. No loss of life or damage has been reported so far.

Lok Adalat 2026 for Traffic Challan: Delhi motorists with pending traffic challans have a new opportunity for relief as the city hosts its first Lok Adalat of 2026 on January 10. This special court offers a chance to settle minor traffic violations, with potential for full fine waivers or reduced penalty amounts, aiming to clear cases and ease the burden on regular courts.

In a big relief for PF members, the EPFO will soon allow instant Provident Fund withdrawals for over 30 crore members. This new facility will be available through the BHIM app in the next two to three months. Members can claim PF advances for health, education, and special circumstances, and the sanctioned money will be directly credited to UPI-linked bank accounts.

Skilled construction workers are now flying across India for jobs. This reflects a growing demand for specialized blue-collar skills. Companies are investing in air travel for these workers. This shift is changing the economic landscape. It offers new mobility and benefits previously for white-collar employees. These workers are embracing new technologies and travel experiences.

Russia has launched an Oreshnik missile towards Ukraine. This weapon is a hypersonic ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads. It was previously tested with dummy warheads. This latest strike targeted critical infrastructure. The missile's speed and advanced capabilities make it difficult to intercept. This action follows threats from Russia regarding Ukrainian attacks on its territory.

Tickets for the Republic Day Parade 2026, Full Dress Rehearsal, and Beating Retreat ceremony are now on sale. The Republic Day Parade is on January 26, followed by rehearsals and the Beating Retreat on January 29. Purchase tickets online or at designated counters in New Delhi. These events mark India's transition to a republic and honor the armed forces.

Some Chinese netizens are calling for a swift capture of Taiwan's leaders, inspired by a recent US operation. However, analysts believe China's military is not ready for such a high-risk mission. Taiwan has bolstered its defenses and early warning systems. Any attempt to seize leaders would likely escalate into a full-scale conflict, facing significant challenges and potential intervention.

The Staff Selection Commission has unveiled its tentative examination calendar for 2026-2027. This schedule provides crucial dates for advertisements, application deadlines, and exam months for various government posts. Aspirants can now strategically plan their applications and preparation for the upcoming recruitment cycle. The calendar covers a wide range of examinations, offering a clear roadmap for job seekers.

The Congress is launching a 'Save MGNREGA Movement' in Assam on Saturday, protesting the new VB-G RAM G Act that replaces the rural employment scheme. Party leaders claim the new act strips workers of guaranteed employment and constitutional rights. The agitation, including press conferences, dharnas, and protest meetings, will continue until the new act is withdrawn and MGNREGA is restored.

Iran protests: Massive protests against the government have erupted in Tehran and other Iranian cities due to the economic and political instability. The Iranian rial is trading at over 1.4 million to $1 dollar which is an at an all-time low. Irans inflation rate in December reached 42.2%, with food prices rising 72% compared to the previous year.

A political party alleges the Central Board of Film Certification is deliberately delaying the censor certificate for Vijay's film 'Jana Nayagan'. They claim this is an attempt to stall the movie's release and Vijay's success. The party warns that any appeal by the central government will anger the people of Tamil Nadu.

The Trinamool Congress has approached the Calcutta High Court. They are challenging the Enforcement Directorate's raids on I-PAC and its chief's residence. The party alleges seizure of sensitive political data for upcoming elections. They seek court intervention to prevent misuse of the documents.