The Economic Times

Launched in 2024, the Indo-Mediterranean Initiative, embodied by the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), is evolving as a strategic, layered process. Despite regional conflicts, IMEC is being built through trade agreements, defense cooperation, and infrastructure partnerships, prioritizing trust and resilience over mere connectivity.

The International Monetary Fund has reported significant progress in its discussions with Pakistan regarding funding facilities. Talks are set to continue in the coming days. This ongoing dialogue will further assess the effects of recent global events on Pakistan's economy and the Extended Fund Facility program. Both sides are working towards a resolution.

Assam Congress has hit the brakes on potential alliances with Raijor Dal as the assembly elections approach. Gaurav Gogoi reflected on the negotiations, noting that a conducive atmosphere for collaboration wasn't realized. The ultimate aim remains clear: winning seats. Meanwhile, Congress has rolled out its candidate selections, and rival opposition groups are mobilizing for coordinated campaigning efforts across the state.

Three crew members were elieved to be trapped aboard a Thai bulk carrier that was hit by two projectiles on Wednesday while travelling through the crucial Strait of Hormuz, the vessel's owner said. Three crew members are reported missing and believed to be trapped in the engine room of the Thai-registered Mayuree Naree which was damaged in the strikes, Thai transport company Precious Shipping said in a statement Wednesday evening.

Middle East war: Bahrain is responding to Iranian attacks. A blaze in Muharraq Governorate prompts public advisories. Earlier, an Iranian strike killed one person in Manama. Bahrain's air defenses neutralized numerous missiles and drones. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar also intercepted attacks. Global oil prices have surged due to the conflict.

Hardik Pandya Flag Complaint: Cricketer Hardik Pandya is under scrutiny after a legal complaint alleged disrespect to the national flag during T20 World Cup victory celebrations. Simultaneously, fans noted the absence of his brother Krunal Pandya and sister-in-law Pankhuri Sharma from the celebrations and their lack of social media posts.

UPSC 2026: Two Chennai youths, one a power-loom weaver's son after eight attempts and another a daily wager's son in his first try, have conquered the UPSC Civil Services Exam. Their journeys, marked by perseverance and support from initiatives like the Naan Mudhalvan Scheme, highlight that humble beginnings need not be barriers to achieving national service dreams.

Gas shortage is hitting restaurants hard in Hyderabad. A restaurant owner said that the fuel shortage is affecting their business big time, and with wood prices allegedly skyrocketing, especially in Ramdhan, it is challenging.

Galileo Galilei, a pivotal figure in the scientific revolution, revolutionized astronomy and the study of motion with his telescopic discoveries and formulations of key physical laws. Despite his groundbreaking work, his advocacy for the Copernican heliocentric system led to an Inquisition process. His enduring quote emphasizes the universal potential for learning from every individual, regardless of their perceived knowledge.

Iran's military vowed on Wednesday to launch strikes against US and Israeli economic interests in the region, including banks, while an Iranian news agency listed tech giants as possible future targets. Iran's Tasnim news agency also published a list of potential targets for Iran on Telegram, including the offices of tech giants such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Nvidia in Gulf countries and Israel.

Philosopher Rene Descartes championed questioning everything. One of his work includes the book Meditations on First Philosophy. He believed that if something deceives us once, it warrants caution. This approach helps find dependable truths. Descartes' method encourages critical thinking, not constant suspicion. Learning from past experiences is key to forming sound judgments. His ideas laid groundwork for modern rationalism.

Iran War News Day 13: The Iran-Israel conflict escalates into its second week with widespread violence. Strikes hit Beirut and oil tankers off Iraq. Iran and allied groups claim attacks on Israeli targets. The US military's involvement costs billions. Global oil markets are tense as strategic reserves are released. Lebanon faces a severe humanitarian crisis. Businesses in the Gulf evacuate offices amid rising security concerns.

A container ship has been struck by a projectile off the coast of the UAE, near Jebel Ali port. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the incident, raising concerns about maritime security in the region. Details regarding the origin of the projectile and any potential damage are still emerging.

Kritika Kamra and Gaurav Kapur exchanged vows in a beautiful, intimate ceremony at their Bandra home. The couple looked radiant in elegant, understated wedding attire, opting for a personal celebration over a lavish affair. Close friends and family attended the registrar ceremony. Read on to know more about their wedding looks.

Petrol, Diesel Price March 12: There has been no change in the prices of petrol and diesel on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata and other cities. This comes despite crude Brent jumping $100 per barrel amid the ongoing escalating tensions in the Middle East region. The government has said the fuel prices would remain stable for now.

Truck drivers on the Iran-Iraq border say the war and closure of key crossings have disrupted trade and daily life. Drivers who usually cross nearby borders are now taking long detours, waiting days at checkpoints and seeing far fewer trucks as imports slow due to the conflict and sanctions.

Archana Puran Singh son Pakistan match: Actor Archana Puran Singh's son, Aaryamann Sethi, shares his challenging journey. Once a promising international footballer, Aaryamann battled bullying and injuries. A severe leg fracture derailed his dreams, leading to depression and anxiety. With family support, he is now exploring music and content creation, advocating for mental health awareness.

Amidst fears of West Asian conflict disrupting gas supply, Uttarakhand government prioritizes commercial gas cylinders for hospitals and educational institutions. Preparations are underway for wood as an alternative fuel, while authorities assure no shortage of domestic cylinders and vow to curb black marketing and misinformation.

Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge is set for a March 19, 2026, release, following the success of its predecessor. Strong advance bookings and a recently released trailer have fuelled anticipation. The spy thriller will reportedly premiere on OTT approximately eight weeks after its theatrical run. Read on to know more about it.

The Trump administration has launched a new trade investigation into unfair practices by 16 major partners, including India, under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. This probe examines structural excess capacity in manufacturing, potentially leading to new US tariffs if violations are found.

In a precautionary move amid rising tensions, Oman is reportedly shifting vessels away from its Mina Al Fahal oil terminal. This development, reported by Bloomberg News, signals a heightened state of alert in the region, with authorities taking steps to safeguard maritime operations and potential disruptions to oil exports.

Hulk Hogans words about hanging up the boots reveal the emotional struggle athletes face when stepping away from the sport they love. The wrestling legends quote highlights passion, dedication and the difficulty of retirement. Read on to know more about it.

Aaryamann Sethi, son of Archana Puran Singh, battled depression and anxiety. His football dreams were shattered by severe injuries. He also faced bullying and racism. Therapy helped him understand his anger. Despite setbacks, his mother supported his pursuit of English football. Injuries ultimately changed his physical abilities, forcing a painful realization about his career.

In a letter addressed to NCW Chairperson Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Punjab Assembly Partap Singh Bajwa urged the commission to take immediate cognizance of the matter and initiate action against the Chief Minister.

Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi sarcastically questioned the Jammu and Kashmir police about a potential third FIR following his pro-Iran and anti-Israel/US statements. He had previously faced two FIRs for allegedly circulating misleading content and making an inflammatory speech during pro-Iran protests.

Israeli forces struck Beirut's southern suburbs late Wednesday. This followed rocket fire from Hezbollah into northern Israel. The exchange intensified the ongoing conflict. Israeli strikes have caused significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon. Hezbollah stated its actions are part of ongoing operations. The situation remains volatile with potential for further escalation.

A notable meeting unfolded in Florida as a prominent Russian delegation engaged with their American peers. The discussions spanned numerous topics, reflecting a shared commitment to dialogue. Celebrated as a success by the Russian special envoy, the session featured key American figures such as special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Josh Gruenbaum.

American forces have targeted 28 Iranian vessels involved in laying mines. This action comes as Iran attempts to disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States military confirmed the destruction of these boats. The operation aims to ensure the free flow of oil traffic in the crucial waterway amidst regional conflict.

A recent ruling by a US appeals court has ensured that financial support for the vital Hudson Tunnel project in New York will persist, despite opposition from the Trump administration. This landmark decision allows construction on the essential rail connection between Manhattan and New Jersey to move forward, restoring critical infrastructure that was ravaged by Hurricane Sandy.

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Episode 10 release time and how to watch is now confirmed for March 12, 2026. The episode continues the Culling Game arc and focuses on Megumi Fushiguros fight. Here is the release time, streaming platform, story details, and recap of episode 9.

Heatwave in Gujarat: Gujarat is the hottest region in the country right now with temperatures in Rajkot reaching 42 degrees Celsius. The IMD has issued a heatwave alert for the state and said such weather conditions would persist till March 13. On the other hand, Ahmedabad recorded 41.4 degrees Celsius. Large parts of Gujarat have been experiencing extreme hot temperatures and residents have been advised to take necessary precautions.

The Pentagon is assembling a 30-person team of investment bankers from top firms like Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan to manage $200 billion in defense deals over three years. This initiative, pitched as a chance to serve your country, could align with past ambitions for a U.S. sovereign wealth fund.

An attack on two oil tankers near Iraq resulted in at least one crew member's death and 38 rescues, with the search for missing individuals ongoing. Iraqi authorities reported the vessels were subjected to sabotage, occurring approximately 50 kilometers offshore. The incidents follow Iran's campaign to disrupt global energy markets amid ongoing regional conflicts.

An unexploded World War II bomb was successfully defused in the German city of Dresden on Wednesday, police said, after it caused a huge evacuation operation. The discovery caused officials to evacuate 18,000 people on Wednesday, the largest such operation ever in the eastern German city, emergency services said.

The war on Iran has cost the U.S. at least $11.3 billion in its first six days, with officials estimating a potential $50 billion funding request. The conflict, which began with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, has killed approximately 2,000 people and disrupted global markets. Lawmakers are concerned about depleting military stocks and demand public testimony on the administration's war plans.

The State Department will permanently close its consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan, a key diplomatic mission near the Afghan border. This closure, part of a broader reorganization, is expected to save $7.5 million annually. Consular services will be transferred to the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, approximately 114 miles away.

The European Union faces a potential inflation surge above 3% this year. This scenario hinges on sustained high oil and gas prices due to the Middle East conflict. Economic growth in 2026 could also see a significant slowdown. EU economy chief Valdis Dombrovskis conveyed these concerns to finance ministers. The bloc's economic outlook is under scrutiny.

President Trump urged oil companies to use the Strait of Hormuz, asserting Iran is paying a heavy price for 47 years of global damage. He highlighted the US military's overwhelming success against Iran, stating their navy is largely gone. Meanwhile, Iran warned of retaliation if its ports are attacked, following a UN warning for civilians to avoid port facilities.

Iran war: The developments follow the closure of US diplomatic missions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after last week's attack near the US consulate in Dubai.

Atlassian layoffs affected employees severance package, changes in top management and total job cuts expenses explain why the software company is cutting about 1,600 jobs. The move aims to fund artificial intelligence and enterprise sales. The restructuring also includes leadership changes and severance payments for affected employees.

Senecas Quote of the Day, Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity, highlights that success is not random but the result of readiness and effort. The Roman philosopher, statesman, and tutor of Nero believed that preparation, self-discipline, and awareness of opportunities create what people call luck. This article explores the meaning of the quote through themes of effort, Stoic wisdom, and timing, while also covering Senecas life, including his early years in Corduba, exile, poli

Why is Atlassian going to lay off 10% workforce, and will software provider's 1,600 jobs cut announcement push company's shares upwards or downwards? Atlassian announced about 1,600 job cuts as part of a restructuring plan. The company wants to focus on artificial intelligence and enterprise sales. Its shares moved higher in extended trading after the announcement.

Can Iran drones attack California on US West Coast or will it launch another cyberattack? A warning by the FBI says Iran may try a drone strike from a vessel near the US coast. The alert mentions possible targets in California. Officials say they have no details about timing or method.

A quote by Michael Mann talks about how people choose to live their lives. He says some people live honestly while others live with pretence. The idea came from his visit to Folsom State Prison while observing life there. The quote reflects simple thoughts about personal choices, truth, and how people decide to live their time.

Quote of the Day: Franz Kafka's quote, Beyond a certain point there is no return. This point has to be reached, highlights the necessity of decisive action and commitment in life. The article explores Kafka's life, his literary themes of alienation and uncertainty, and how his works, like The Metamorphosis, continue to resonate with readers.

Economists believe India's policy interest rate cuts are unlikely to continue due to West Asia crisis-driven inflation risks and the fading of a favorable base effect. Sustained foreign outflows and a weakening rupee could also force the Reserve Bank of India to reconsider further easing, potentially even a hike.