The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
A wedding in Azamgarh was disrupted when a woman arrived with police, claiming a long-term relationship with the groom and a promise of marriage. Despite her plea, rituals reportedly concluded, leading to the couple's hasty departure amid chaos and stone-pelting. Five individuals were detained as investigations continue into the dramatic incident.
Delhi's Lajpat Nagar now offers a unique service where shoppers can hire assistants for 149 per hour to manage bags, queues, and navigation. This initiative, born from personal market experiences, aims to ease the physical strain of crowded shopping trips. The service, CarryMen, provides practical help, especially for the elderly and pregnant women, enhancing the overall shopping comfort.
A new giant marine reptile, Tylosaurus Rex, has been discovered. Fossils found in Texas reveal this predator ruled the oceans 80 million years ago. It was much larger than modern sharks. Researchers believe it was aggressive, fighting other mosasaurs. This discovery updates our understanding of these ancient sea creatures. A reconstructed skeleton is now on display.
Election Commission of India Falta Election Result 2026: Vote counting for the Falta Assembly seat in West Bengal is currently underway, with BJP candidate Debangshu Panda taking an early lead. The constituency recently witnessed a full repoll after the Election Commission of India ordered fresh voting over allegations of electoral irregularities and EVM tampering. Tight security arrangements have been put in place at counting centres and strong rooms.
The Indian government is actively considering removing the 11 percent customs duty on raw cotton imports. Ministries are in advanced talks to address cost pressures faced by the domestic textile industry. A supply-demand gap for cotton is creating challenges for spinning mills and manufacturers. A decision on the duty is expected soon.
Tensions escalated in a dramatic encounter near the White House when a man with a history of violence, captivated by the allure of political power, engaged in a shootout with Secret Service agents. The chaotic moment unfolded as he approached a security check, firing at officers who swiftly returned fire, neutralizing the threat.
India has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential trips to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. This follows the World Health Organization's declaration of an Ebola outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola has spread rapidly. Health authorities remain vigilant.
The Delhi Gymkhana Club faces a government order to vacate its premises by June 5. The Centre cites urgent public purpose and national interest for the resumption of the land. The club has requested a meeting with ministry officials to discuss the matter. Its priority is to ensure uninterrupted operations for members and employees.
A devastating gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in China's Shanxi province has claimed 82 lives. This incident marks the nation's deadliest mining accident in 17 years. Officials revised the death toll after initial reports. The government has ordered an investigation and stressed the need for greater safety in production.
Ganga Dussehra 2026: Ganga Dussehra, celebrating Goddess Ganga's descent to Earth, will be observed on Monday, May 25, 2026. This significant Hindu festival involves holy dips in the Ganga, believed to cleanse sins, and various religious rituals. Devotees also engage in charitable acts and participate in Ganga Aarti, seeking blessings for prosperity and spiritual strength.
Garena Free Fire MAX offers players daily rewards and engaging events, with redeem codes providing easy access to free in-game items. These 12-character alphanumeric codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once. Players can claim their rewards by visiting the official redemption site and logging in with their game-linked accounts.
Delhi's air pollution is a constant battle, not just a seasonal issue. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is driving year-round efforts to clean the capital's air. Innovative projects, developed with IIT Delhi, are now being put into action. A detailed Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026 is guiding this mission. This plan focuses on technology and accountability for a cleaner Delhi.
Rapper Santy Sharma dismisses the viral 'Cockroach Janta Party' trend as mere internet drama, not a genuine movement. He urges focus on real national issues like development and employment, warning against emotionally driven online campaigns. Sharma also highlights concerns about digital manipulation and foreign interference in Indian discourse.
In the vibrant world of play, Indian board games and toys are experiencing a renaissance. Consumers are leaning towards locally inspired options, moving away from homogenized global toys. A new wave of entrepreneurs is tapping into India's rich tapestry of history and mythology to create engaging, culturally resonant products.
Abhijeet Dipke, the founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, stands firm against BJP's assertions regarding the demographic of his movement's social media audience. According to recent data, an impressive 94% of his followers are Indians, countering the Union ministers' claims of a Pakistani influence. The movement's emphasis on youth unemployment and educational reform is stirring up significant political controversy.
Bollywood star Salman Khan humorously revealed his reluctance to enter politics, joking he'd lose even a building secretary election due to family votes. He shared this on The Kapil Sharma Show, citing his own family's potential lack of support. Khan is set to star in the war drama 'Maatrubhumi' and has another untitled project in development.
Pontrefact cakes are liquorice sweets. They are small and black with a medicinal-sweet taste which liquorice lovers adore, and everyone else hates.
Petrol Diesel Price Today May 24 check Delhi, Noida, Faribadad, Lucknow fuel rates: Fuel prices in India have surged again, with petrol nearing Rs 100 per litre in Delhi and diesel prices also climbing significantly. This marks the third recent increase in CNG rates, adding to public concern amidst geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and potential fuel shortages. The hikes are expected to raise transportation costs and impact household budgets.
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. Director HR Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. Raj Kumar Dubey said another fuel price hike may become unavoidable if global energy disruptions persist, as policymakers weigh three options raising retail fuel prices, oil companies absorbing losses, or government support through deficit financing.
The surge in global military budgets is astonishing, with nations investing heavily in their defense capabilities in response to escalating threats and protracted conflicts. As geopolitical rivalries intensify and the United Nations struggles to maintain order, countries are increasingly prioritizing military strength, hinting at a drastic turn towards heightened militarization and the possibility of an arms race.
A significant anti-terror operation is intensifying in Rajouri's Pir Panjal belt after security forces engaged heavily armed terrorists in the Gambir Mughlan forest. Following an intelligence-led search, contact was established Sunday morning with an estimated two to three militants believed to be trapped.
Robert Downey Jr.'s quote, I have a sense of destiny that you are led to the things you are supposed to do, reflects his personal journey of overcoming addiction and career setbacks. His inspiring comeback, particularly as Iron Man, demonstrates how life's challenges can redirect individuals toward their true purpose and success.
India and Oman have strengthened their strategic defence partnership with specialized military training for the Sultan's Armed Forces. Two Indian Mobile Training Teams focused on operational coordination and joint logistics, enhancing interoperability. This initiative follows recent discussions on West Asia and India's condemnation of attacks on commercial shipping off Oman's coast.
GaayaPadda Simham, the Telugu action-comedy starring Tharun Bhascker and Sree Vishnu, has arrived on OTT just 22 days after its theatrical release. The film, noted for its unusual storyline and satirical humour, follows a man's bizarre revenge mission against the US President after immigration troubles derail his plans. Read on to know where to watch the movie online.
Yesterday IPL match Result LSG VS PBKS: Punjab Kings secured a crucial seven-wicket win against Lucknow Super Giants. Shreyas Iyer smashed an unbeaten century to chase down 197. This victory propelled Punjab into the top four. Lucknow's playoff hopes ended with the loss. Josh Inglis scored 72 for Lucknow. Punjab's chase was anchored by a 140-run partnership.
A nine-storey building under construction collapsed in Angeles City, Philippines, trapping an estimated 30 to 40 people. Eight individuals were rescued, and 11 others escaped the incident. Search and rescue operations are underway, though challenges exist due to the concrete structure. The cause of the collapse is under investigation.
KCET 2026 result date and time: Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 results are awaited from the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA), with over 3.3 lakh students registered. The exams concluded in April, and KEA has directed students to upload Class 12 marks for result preparation. Counselling may proceed independently of NEET due to recent controversies.
Private equity funds are pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into Keralas healthcare sector, reshaping a system long dominated by independent doctors and family-run hospitals.
Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 has opened to a massive response. The film crossed Rs 100 crore worldwide within three days of its release. Directed by Jeethu Joseph, the thriller has seen strong ticket sales across markets. Despite divided audience reactions, the movie is performing impressively. Drishyam 3 is the biggest opener in the franchise in Malayalam cinema. Read on to know how much it earned in India.
State-run oil companies have increased petrol and diesel prices by approximately 90 paise per litre, with CNG also seeing a 1 per kg hike. This follows a cumulative rise of around 5 per litre for petrol and diesel and 3 per kg for CNG over the past nine days, impacting broader economic costs.
During the meeting, Rubio emphasised that the US will not allow Iran hold the global energy market hostage and affirmed that US energy products have the potential to diversify Indias energy supply, the US State Department said in a readout. The two sides reflected upon recent bilateral achievements, including significant investments that advance the president and prime ministers Mission 500 to double trade by 2030, it said.
Companies such as Nestle, WeWork India, Swiggy and DriveU are adopting pet-inclusive practices, as organisations look for new ways to reduce employee stress, improve morale and strengthen workplace connections. The idea is increasingly being framed not as a perk, but as part of a broader rethinking of employee experience.
Japan has suspended fresh mango imports from India due to concerns over fumigation and disinfection deficiencies identified during a March inspection. This halt affects popular Indian varieties, with shipments certified after March 25, 2026, being rejected. The suspension will continue until India demonstrates improved operational standards.
Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal said the Centre is preparing several sector-specific investment promotion proposals announced in the budget. We are continuously addressing challenges related to increasing self-reliance, particularly in areas where our supply chains are critically dependent on certain geographies, he said.
German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer is still remembered for his deep thoughts on human life, individuality and freedom. One of his most widely discussed quotes continues to connect with readers even today. The quote reflects Schopenhauers belief that people often lose their true identity while trying to fit into society and that solitude allows individuals to think freely without outside pressure.
Quote of the day by Ralph Waldo Emerson focuses on the meaning of life and human values through the line, It is not length of life, but depth of life. The quote explains why purpose, compassion, love, and meaningful actions matter more than the number of years lived. Ralph Waldo Emersons philosophy, writings, and role in Transcendentalism continue to influence discussions on human behavior, morality, and self-reliance across the world.
Greek proverb of the day: Old age and poverty are presented as deeply challenging, irreversible conditions that significantly impact quality of life. The proverb Old age and poverty are wounds that cant be healed highlights the lasting difficulties, emphasizing the need for future financial planning to mitigate vulnerability in later years.
Memorial Day 2026, observed on Monday, May 25, honors fallen US service members. While many government offices, banks, and postal services will be closed, major retailers like Walmart and Target are expected to remain open. UPS and FedEx will suspend most services, with exceptions for critical deliveries.
A tech professional's recent interview experience highlighted the tough IT job market for graduates. He observed candidates struggling with practical coding despite strong theoretical knowledge. This led him to reflect on his own past interviews, which were less demanding.
Quote of the day by Sylvester Stallone: He encourages men to show their emotions. He believes true strength lies in acknowledging vulnerability, not hiding it. Societal pressure often tells men to be tough and not cry. However, men experience the same feelings as anyone else. Openly discussing emotions helps mental well-being and builds stronger relationships.
Quote of the day by Charles Dickens highlights the idea that happiness should be accepted when it arrives instead of being demanded every day. The quote explains joy, peace, patience and human behavior. Charles Dickens shared lessons about life through his novels and personal struggles. His words continue to guide readers who want balance, gratitude and calm thinking in daily life and relationships.
Starting in July, six crore Swasthya Sathi card holders in West Bengal will be eligible for the Ayushman Bharat scheme. New applications are now being accepted. Additionally, the recruitment process will see enhanced transparency as OMR sheet carbon copies will be mandatory for all candidates.
Assam's government has welcomed West Bengal's move to fence sensitive border areas. This includes the Siliguri Corridor, vital for connecting the Northeast. Governor Lakshman Prasad Achary highlighted past infiltration challenges. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also revealed plans for a rail link across the corridor. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated this strategic breakthrough will secure transportation to the Northeast.
Cyprus plans to buy defence equipment from India. A new cooperation roadmap for 2026 to 2031 will boost defence and security ties. Companies from both nations will explore partnerships. This includes collaboration on cybersecurity and new technologies. Both countries also aim for stronger maritime cooperation. This will involve naval vessel port calls and joint training exercises.
Indian Institutes of Technology are actively expanding their global presence. They are forging international partnerships, establishing overseas campuses, and recruiting international faculty. This strategic move aims to position IITs as global research hubs in key technology areas.
An encounter has erupted in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces launched a major search operation following reports of suspected infiltrator movement. Army officials believe two to three foreign infiltrators are in the area. A firefight ensued after contact was established with terrorists. The operation, named 'Op Sheruwali', is ongoing.

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