The Economic Times

India needs a strong military, with air power crucial for protecting economic interests and technological infrastructure. Air Force chief A P Singh emphasized this at the Subroto Mukerjee Seminar. He highlighted the need for the will to use military strength. India must also focus on indigenisation and acquiring critical technologies for future preparedness.

The Union Cabinet has approved a Rs 5,000 crore equity infusion into SIDBI to boost credit for MSMEs. This capital, released over three years, aims to increase financial assistance recipients from 76.26 lakh to 1.02 crore by 2028, potentially creating over a crore new jobs.

The Supreme Court has extended protection for three individuals accused in the Andhra Pradesh liquor scam. The court directed them to seek regular bail from the trial court. This comes after the High Court cancelled their default bail and ordered their surrender. The scam involves alleged manipulation in liquor procurement and kickbacks during the previous government's tenure.

Apple CEO Tim Cook, a leader known for steady guidance and smart decisions, inspires us to find joy in life's journey, not just distant goals. Under his tenure, Apple has seen significant product launches and growth in services. Cook's emphasis on values like privacy and environmental responsibility, alongside his quiet yet effective leadership, continues to shape the tech giant's future.

India asserts its position among global AI leaders, rejecting a US-China-centric hierarchy. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted India's independent strategy, talent, and progress across the AI stack, emphasizing return on investment over frontier model size. He envisions a multipolar AI future driven by custom silicon and cost-effective compute.

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) until 2030-31, ensuring assured monthly pensions for millions of low-income and unorganised sector workers. This extension includes continued government funding for outreach and gap funding, guaranteeing pensions of 1,000 to 5,000 per month from age 60 for those without formal retirement benefits.

A flat owner in Bengaluru proposed cost-cutting measures for apartment maintenance. Suggestions included removing night security guards and CCTV cameras. Other ideas involved eliminating gardeners, dimming common area lights, altering garbage collection, and disabling power backup. These proposals generated significant criticism and sarcastic reactions on social media platforms like Reddit.

A viral video by Gaurav Kapur satirises finance influencers' shifting advice during market rallies versus crashes. The clip highlights how confident stock-picking promises during bull runs transform into cautious, blame-free guidance when markets turn volatile, resonating with retail investors.

Eversource Capital-backed GreenCell Mobility has raised $89 million (about Rs 800 crore) in mezzanine funding from IFC, British International Investment and Tata Capital to expand its electric bus operations across India. The funds will be used to scale up its fleet to around 3,700 buses and strengthen charging infrastructure under programmes such as PM Seva E-Mobility.

After surviving gruelling physical challenges and intense pitch rounds, cloud automation platform Toystack AI emerged as the season winner. Tim Draper awarded the $1 million prize in a dramatic finale that also saw other finalists receive unexpected investment offers.

Russell Crowe, an Oscar-winning actor, emphasizes focusing on personal performance and standards over external validation. This mindset, honed through a career marked by acclaimed roles in films like 'Gladiator' and 'A Beautiful Mind,' offers a powerful lesson in resilience and purpose. Crowe's dedication extends beyond acting, as he also co-owns a rugby league team.

India SUV sales: With utility vehicles now claiming 66% of the market, Indias local players are no longer chasing the pack -- they are setting the pace.

The Pitt Season 2 Episode 3 release date, time, schedule, streaming platforms and how to watch details confirm the episode will stream on HBO Max on January 22, 2026. This explainer covers global timings, episode schedule, cast details, story focus, and viewing options.

India spy satellites: India plans to deploy as many as 150 new satellites to boost border security, reports said citing Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman V Narayanan. The estimated cost of placing 150 satellites is about Rs 26,000 crore ($2.8 billion), the reports added.

India Budget 2026 Expectations: As Budget 2026 approaches, urban India's middle class is holding back on discretionary spending, impacting economic value chains. While rural demand has recovered, urban consumption remains fragile due to persistent inflation in essentials and EMI burdens. Policy measures focusing on tax relief and reducing system friction are crucial to revive urban spending without compromising fiscal discipline.

Aerem Solutions secured $15 million in Pre-series-B funding. This investment will bolster its digital platform for solar energy. The company has already enabled over 1,200 MW of solar capacity and financed more than 2,000 projects. Aerem's network spans over 3,200 installation partners across India. The funding will accelerate solar adoption and expand partner capabilities nationwide.

A Reddit user faced a tough choice between job offers in Gurgaon and Dubai. While Dubai's salary seemed higher, online discussions revealed high living costs. The Gurgaon offer provides a more stable and comfortable lifestyle with long-term growth. Numbers alone do not determine financial well-being. Lifestyle and expenses are crucial factors in career decisions.

The Union Budget 2026 will be more than a fiscal exercise. As autonomous drones, algorithm-driven targeting and cyber warfare reshape conflict, the Union Budget will reveal how seriously India intends to invest in next-generation military power amid shrinking fiscal headroom.

The inheritance dispute over late businessman Sunjay Kapurs estimated Rs 30,000 crore estate has intensified, with his mother Rani Kapur moving the Delhi High Court to seek cancellation of the Rani Kapur Family Trust, which holds a stake in auto component maker Sona Comstar.

Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson CR Kesavan has accused the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam of displaying an anti-Hindu mindset. He criticized Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin's past remarks and questioned Chief Minister MK Stalin's silence. Kesavan pointed to incidents opposing Hindu festivals as examples of this alleged mindset.

CBSE admit card 2026 for regular student: CBSE is expected to release Class 10 and 12 admit cards for regular students soon, typically five to six days before the February 17, 2026 exams. Students must carry their admit cards to examination centers, as entry is prohibited without them. Schools are instructed to ensure admit cards are clearly printed with official stamps and signatures.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khwaja Asif has courted controversy after inaugurating a fake Pizza Hut outlet in Sialkot. The company swiftly clarified the establishment was unauthorized, not adhering to their standards. This incident has sparked widespread mockery online, with netizens questioning due diligence and drawing parallels to other perceived fakes.

Drug maker Lupin announced a significant partnership. Its subsidiary, Lupin Atlantis Holdings SA, has signed an agreement with Galenicum Health. This collaboration focuses on diabetes and weight management medication, specifically injectable Semaglutide. Galenicum will handle development and manufacturing. Lupin will manage regulatory submissions, approvals, and commercialisation.

Allcargo Group has appointed Vaishnav Shetty as Deputy Managing Director and a member of the Allcargo Global Ltd. Shetty, son of founder Shashi Kiran Shetty, will work with Managing Director Adarsh Hegde. This move signals the group's focus on succession planning and building a future-ready organization.

Delhi government has approved a welfare initiative to provide a free LPG cooking gas cylinder to economically weaker households on Holi and Diwali. The decision, with a Rs 300 crore allocation, fulfills a BJP electoral promise. Beneficiaries will receive funds via Direct Benefit Transfer to their Aadhaar-linked accounts.

Bangladesh elections: A December opinion poll by the U.S.-based International Republican Institute ranked Jamaat as the most liked party and projected a tight race with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party for the top spot in the February 12 election.

A senior manager at an LIC office in Madurai died in what was initially thought to be an accidental fire. Police now say an assistant officer murdered her. The manager was investigating document irregularities linked to the assistant officer. He allegedly set her on fire and locked her in a room.

Pakistan Cricket Board backs Bangladesh's stance on not playing T20 World Cup matches in India. This follows security concerns raised by Bangladesh. The International Cricket Council will decide on Bangladesh's participation. Bangladesh wants its matches shifted to Sri Lanka. Pakistan will play its matches in Sri Lanka. The issue began after a directive from the BCCI regarding a player.

Canada is bracing for another year of extreme heat, with 2026 predicted to be among the hottest on record. Global temperatures are expected to remain significantly above pre-industrial levels, marking the 13th consecutive year. This trend suggests the period from 2026 to 2030 will likely be the hottest five-year span ever recorded.

Basant Panchami 2026 shubh muhurat kab hai: Basant Panchami, dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, will be celebrated on Friday, January 23, 2026, based on Udaya Tithi. This auspicious day marks the arrival of spring and is ideal for new beginnings, learning, and arts. Devotees worship the Goddess of wisdom, seeking blessings for creativity and clarity of thought.

A new European Twenty20 league is set to begin in August. Cricket boards from Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands back the league. Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan is a founder. Glenn Maxwell co-owns the Belfast franchise. Steve Waugh is part of the ownership for the Amsterdam team. The league aims to boost cricket in Europe.

Singer Anup Jalota has sharply criticized composer AR Rahman's recent comments. Jalota suggested Rahman should reconvert to Hinduism if he believes his Muslim faith hinders his film career. Rahman had previously spoken about facing prejudice in Bollywood. He later issued an apology for any hurt caused by his statements. Rahman continues his work on upcoming projects.

A Japanese court handed down a life sentence to Tetsuya Yamagami for assassinating former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Yamagami confessed to the murder, stating his motive was to target a controversial church with alleged ties to Japan's ruling party. The shocking incident has spurred investigations into the church and prompted security reforms.

LOral Hyderabad tech hub: The Hyderabad facility will be the companys first dedicated Beauty Tech hub globally. It will support the development and deployment of digital platforms and AI-led solutions across LOrals international businesses, with a focus on data, artificial intelligence, generative AI and agentic AI.

Asin Thottumkal, a celebrated actress who excelled in both South Indian cinema and Bollywood, has stepped away from the limelight. Her career, marked by early Bharatanatyam training and a successful transition to Hindi films, culminated in record-breaking box office hits. She now enjoys a private life after marrying entrepreneur Rahul Sharma.

A corporate employee earning Rs 42 lakh annually and owning a Rs 18 lakh car revealed his struggle with zero self-worth despite his financial success. Quitting his high-paying job unexpectedly brought him a sense of freedom and ownership, allowing him to finally feel aligned with his choices and truly own his possessions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the people of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura on their statehood days. He acknowledged their contributions to India's progress and development. The Prime Minister expressed confidence in the continued growth and prosperity of these states. He highlighted Manipur's dedication, Meghalaya's cultural vibrancy, and Tripura's blend of tradition and modernity.

Nome, Alaska, a remote Arctic town, is set to become the U.S.'s first deepwater Arctic port, a $548 million expansion aiming to boost trade and resources. While proponents see economic growth and self-sufficiency, residents and tribal members express concerns about population booms, infrastructure costs, and impacts on their traditional subsistence lifestyle.

Delhi's air quality saw a slight improvement on Wednesday morning, registering an AQI of 339, still in the very poor category. While better than Tuesday's 395, 30 stations reported very poor conditions, with Jahangirpuri at 390. The city experienced a minimum temperature of 7.2 degrees Celsius with moderate fog expected.

The three-day enumeration drive is being carried out by the Chilika Wildlife Division in coordination with the Chilika Development Office to assess the current population, distribution, and habitat use of dolphins in Asia's largest brackish water lagoon.

Leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos voiced strong concerns over global trade and President Trump's actions. French President Emmanuel Macron warned of a ew colonial approach. California Governor Gavin Newsom urged leaders to stand tall and firm. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney advocated for middle powers to cooperate.

Litigation funder LegalPay plans a Rs 100 crore investment in India over 18 months, targeting 20-30 commercial and insolvency cases. The company aims to support meritorious claims by removing financial barriers, offering structured, non-recourse funding to claimants and law firms. This initiative addresses the challenge of high litigation costs and uncertainty in India.

Sentenced to Be a Hero Episode 3 release date, time, schedule, what to expect and how to watch details the next chapter of the anime. The episode continues the tunnel mission, explores Demon Blight effects, and follows Xylos decision to rescue trapped miners while facing the system behind his sentence.

Esports is becoming a lucrative career in India. Top players earn up to Rs 1 crore annually. Many players see it as a viable profession. Opportunities are growing for coaches and managers too. The market is projected for significant growth. Regulatory changes are expected to boost investment and user base. This evolving field offers new professional avenues.

Since his inauguration in June, Lee has pushed for dialogue with the North without preconditions, a stark departure from the hawkish approach of his predecessor. But Pyongyang has not responded to his overtures and recently accused South Korea of flying a drone into the border city of Kaesong.

Garena Free Fire Max continues to engage players with tournaments and daily rewards, with redeem codes offering an easy way to acquire free items. These 12-character alphanumeric codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once, so prompt redemption is advised. Players can claim their rewards by visiting the official redemption site and logging in with their game-linked accounts.

Air Force One, carrying President Trump, made an unexpected return to Joint Base Andrews shortly after departing for Switzerland due to a minor electrical issue. The President will switch to another aircraft to continue his journey to the World Economic Forum in Davos. This incident highlights the aging fleet of presidential planes.

Gujarat's delegation is at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Led by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, the delegation aims to explore new opportunities in sectors like Artificial Intelligence and defence.