The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
India's economy achieved a strong 7.7 percent growth in financial year 2025-26. This performance accelerated to 7.8 percent in the fourth quarter. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted this resilience, attributing it to the 'Reform, Perform, Transform' mantra. India continues to lead as the world's fastest-growing major economy amidst global uncertainty. This growth strengthens aspirations for Viksit Bharat.
Kerala is experiencing heavy overnight rains. This has led to flooded roads, uprooted trees, and damaged homes. Normal life is disrupted in several areas. A man died in Thrissur after a tree fell on his shed. Authorities have issued red and orange alerts for multiple districts.
Workers at SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles have voted to authorize a strike. This action could impact the U.S. men's soccer team's opening World Cup match on June 12. Contract talks with the food service provider have stalled. Workers seek better pay and job security. They also want protection from immigration enforcement.
Delhi experienced a minimum temperature of 26.4 degrees Celsius on Saturday. The India Meteorological Department forecasts thunderstorms with rain for the weekend. Maximum temperatures are expected to be around 36 degrees Celsius. The city's air quality remains in the moderate category. Looking ahead, temperatures are set to rise with partly cloudy skies and strong surface winds anticipated.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has dismissed claims by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Aoun stated Iran uses Lebanon as a bargaining chip in talks with the United States. Araqchi countered that if Lebanon were a bargaining chip, a deal would have been reached already. He urged the Lebanese President to protect Lebanon from its true adversary.
Delhi woke up to pleasant weather on Saturday. The minimum temperature was 26.4 degrees Celsius. Thunderstorms are forecast for the weekend, offering relief from the heat. The maximum temperature will be around 36 degrees Celsius. Delhi's air quality is in the moderate category. The AQI was recorded at 162.
Former Bihar Chief Ministers Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi have sent away all security personnel stationed outside their residence at 10 Circular Road in Patna following the withdrawal of their Z-plus security cover by the state government.
Cockroach Janta Party Protest News: Central Delhi commuters face significant traffic disruptions Friday as Cockroach Janata Party supporters protest at Jantar Mantar. Police have implemented diversions and tightened security, advising travel plan adjustments. The online movement's street presence has led to slow traffic across key routes, with the Delhi Metro emerging as the most convenient travel option.
Pro-Khalistan slogans and posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale were displayed at Sri Akal Takht Sahib during the 42nd anniversary of Operation Blue Star. Security forces deployed approximately 4,000 personnel and five companies of CAPF in Amritsar to manage the sensitive occasion.
US-India Business Council President Atul Keshap believes a trade deal is close. He notes ongoing talks and a US tariff proposal are part of negotiations. Keshap stresses the need for compromise from both sides to finalize the agreement. He urges India to pursue reforms to boost investment. The deal aims to increase bilateral trade significantly.
India strongly rebuked Pakistan at the UN General Assembly for misusing international forums to discuss Jammu and Kashmir, asserting it is an integral part of India. India's envoy criticized Pakistan's conduct as a Security Council member, calling its claims baseless and inconsistent with historical facts.
India begins its Test series against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, aiming to fine-tune its playing combination and address selection queries after a previous home defeat. Afghanistan, though underdogs, seeks to showcase its progress since their last Test encounter in 2018, where they were comprehensively defeated.
Hooghly police have apprehended TMC leader Ramesh Patra following a complaint of fraud and intimidation. Patra allegedly promised government benefits to a local businessman, collecting approximately Rs 29 lakh in cash and online transfers. When the promised benefits failed to materialize, the accused reportedly issued death threats. An investigation is ongoing to determine potential involvement of other influential figures.
Delhi authorities have heightened security ahead of a planned protest by the Cockroach Janta Party. The government stated it has no information from the US about the return of CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke. Security measures are in place across the city, including at the airport and border points.
This week's K-drama releases have a diverse range of genres, from medical romance and fantasy to thrillers and military comedies. New titles like Doctor on the Edge and The Lie We Lived In have arrived, alongside ongoing favourites. Viewers can explore time-travelling villains, contract killers, and disciplined students, with See You At Work Tomorrow also generating anticipation. Read on!
R Praggnanandhaa became the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title after a dramatic final round. Despite a slow start, the young grandmaster launched a stunning comeback, securing four consecutive classical victories, including wins against Magnus Carlsen twice. His historic triumph, marked by visible nerves before victory, has resonated with fans worldwide.
A second case of the flesh-eating screwworm parasite has been confirmed in Texas. This new detection is just miles from the first U.S. case in decades. The parasite deposits eggs in animal wounds. Larvae feed on living tissue, potentially causing fatal damage. This resurgence poses a significant economic threat to Texas cattle ranchers.
Andaman oil discovery news: Oil India has confirmed the discovery of natural gas in an exploratory well in the Andaman Sea, marking a significant step in India's Samudra Manthan Mission. This find strengthens the belief in the Andaman Basin's hydrocarbon potential, though commercial production is estimated to be a decade away. The discovery could bolster India's energy security and reduce import dependence.
Tensions between the US and Iran remain high as the conflict approaches 100 days. Both nations are engaged in military actions and diplomatic exchanges. Iran insists on a ceasefire in Lebanon before any deal with the US. The US has intercepted Iranian drones and seized an oil tanker. Oil prices have seen fluctuations.
Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, starring Varun Dhawan and directed by David Dhawan, opened to modest digits in India. Despite its nostalgic appeal and star cast, the film's opening day collections were in single digits. The comedy entertainer faces competition from Ram Charan's Peddi and will need a strong weekend to improve its box-office prospects. Read on!
FIFA has noted that misting stations, fans, hydration stations and cooling tents would be available in he stadium footprint.
California, New York, and other states are preparing to sue and block Paramount's $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. The lawsuit, expected in the coming weeks, marks a significant move in state-led antitrust enforcement. This action could delay the deal, which faces opposition from Hollywood creatives and theater owners concerned about job losses and reduced competition.
Despite mixed reviews, Ram Charan's Peddi has emerged as a major box-office force within just two days, crossing Rs 150 crore worldwide. Driven by strong support from Telugu audiences, the sports drama is now on the verge of entering the Rs 100 crore club domestically. With the crucial weekend ahead, all eyes are on whether the film can sustain its momentum. Read on!
Flesh-eating screwworm parasite infection: The deadly flies were detected in Mexico late in 2024, after years of being contained at the southern end of Panama.
A Los Angeles jury ruled in favor of Johnson & Johnson, finding the company not negligent in a lawsuit alleging its talc products caused ovarian cancer. This verdict comes as J&J faces thousands of similar claims, having previously won some cases and lost others, and having discontinued talc-based baby powder sales in the U.S. in 2020.
India's economy surged by a better-than-expected 7.8% in the March quarter, exceeding forecasts and pushing FY26 growth to 7.7%. This robust performance was driven by strong private investment and consumption, defying concerns over the West Asia war. The government remains committed to its reform agenda to maintain economic momentum.
MLB American League MVP: The new favorite is Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez.
Iran war: U.S. Central Command said it hit the radar sites, including an island in the Strait of Hormuz, to defend against further attacks.
The Reserve Bank of India has introduced measures to boost foreign currency inflows, including incentives for external commercial borrowings and bearing hedging costs on FCNR(B) deposits. These steps aim to strengthen external buffers and support the rupee amidst market outflows. The central bank also maintained its policy rate at 5.25% and a neutral stance, while revising inflation and growth forecasts.
Quote of the Day by George Bernard Shaw highlights a powerful truth about success, personal growth, leadership, innovation, and progress. In todays fast-changing world, people often adapt to existing rules. Shaws wisdom challenges that mindset. Great inventions, social change, and human advancement began when someone refused to accept limits. This inspirational quote reminds readers that real progress comes from bold thinking, independent ideas, and the courage to reshape the future instead of s
Quote of the Day by Samuel Beckett highlights a timeless truth about human life, happiness, and suffering. This powerful Samuel Beckett quote reminds us that while one person faces sadness, another discovers joy. The quote of the day explores emotional balance, human nature, wisdom, resilience, and personal growth. In a world filled with constant change, Becketts words encourage empathy, gratitude, and deeper understanding.
Todays Deep Thought: Xenophanes timeless philosophy still challenges modern thinking. We see the world through personal experience, culture, and belief. That insight shapes todays debates on truth, bias, religion, and perception. Real wisdom begins with self-questioning. The deeper lesson is simple: objective truth grows when we recognize the limits of our own perspective.
French writer Honore De Balzac warned that our worst misfortunes rarely happen, with most misery stemming from anticipation. This timeless advice remains relevant today, especially for those battling anxiety. Balzac, a pioneer of realism, penned influential works like 'The Human Comedy'. His life was marked by health struggles and a brief marriage before his passing.
For years, vitamin B12 has remained one of the biggest challenges in vegan nutrition. Now, a breakthrough in active B12 spirulina could change that. Scientists produced bioavailable vitamin B12 levels comparable to beef while maintaining spirulinas high-protein profile. If scaled successfully, this sustainable superfood may reshape plant-based diets, food security, and future protein production worldwide.
Jonathan Swift's timeless quote, 'As love without esteem is capricious and volatile; esteem without love is languid and cold,' highlights the essential balance between affection and respect in relationships. Swift's observations, shaped by his life and keen understanding of human nature, reveal that lasting connections require both emotional warmth and genuine admiration to thrive.
For millions of retirees, Social Security is more than a government benefit. It is a lifeline. New projections warn monthly checks could fall by about $500 in 2032 if the trust fund runs short. The risk is not immediate. But the numbers reveal why many Americans are growing increasingly concerned.
Quote of the day by Seamus Heaney: Poet Seamus Heaney's words reveal a profound truth. Heaney states temperament is the tool for writing and for navigating the world. This inner disposition influences how individuals create and how they face life's ups and downs. Understanding one's temperament fosters self-awareness and personal growth.
With India's exports hitting record highs, the Payoneer India Cross-Border Excellence Awards give the businesses driving that rise a stage worthy of their effort and ambition.
African proverb of the day: An African saying highlights the essential link between consistent effort and tangible rewards. This ancient wisdom emphasizes personal responsibility, diligence, and the understanding that success is earned through proactive work, not mere luck or opportunity alone.
India's foreign exchange reserves saw a slight increase of $938 million, reaching $682 billion by May 29. This rise occurred despite a significant dollar-rupee swap by the Reserve Bank of India. The central bank likely sold dollars in the spot market to support the rupee. Foreign currency assets grew, while gold reserves saw a decline.
New government debt rules aim to attract foreign investment. Additional government securities are now accessible to foreign investors. Tax exemptions are also in place. These measures are expected to boost Indian debt appeal over time. However, immediate foreign inflows remain uncertain. Global events like oil prices and regional conflicts influence investor sentiment.
The Reserve Bank of India has shortened the time for exporters to bring back foreign earnings. This period is now nine months, down from fifteen months. This change aims to increase foreign exchange inflows into India. The move is part of broader efforts to support the country's balance of payments. Exporters must now repatriate earnings sooner after shipment.
The Reserve Bank of India will soon release an updated list of upper-layer non-banking financial companies. This comes as Tata Sons has requested to be removed from this category. The central bank is examining this request. The new list will be finalised shortly. This update is crucial for financial sector regulations.
A significant rebellion is brewing within the Trinamool Congress after a recent election defeat. Few legislators and parliament members attended a meeting called by former chief minister Mamata Banerjee. Many MLAs are reportedly backing expelled leaders. A split in the party's parliamentary wing is also a possibility.
African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of The man may be the head of the home, but the woman is the heart. The saying reflects how family roles are often shaped by emotional balance, responsibility, and mutual dependence rather than hierarchy alone. It suggests that leadership and emotional strength work together to create harmony within a household.

37 C