The Economic Times

India's free trade agreement with New Zealand is set to boost Indian liquor exports. Duty concessions will make Indian single malt whisky and other spirits more competitive. This pact is expected to support market entry and brand building for Indian alcoholic beverages. While current exports are modest, the FTA offers significant growth potential.

Former New Zealand pacer Mitchell McClenaghan lauded Virat Kohli as the IPL's most consistent player. Kohli recently crossed 9000 IPL runs, a remarkable feat. McClenaghan highlighted Kohli's adaptability and hunger for runs. He also predicted Kohli will soon achieve 10,000 IPL runs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a win against Delhi Capitals.

West Bengal Elections 2026 voting: WB gears up for the second phase of polling on April 29, with authorities emphasizing voter turnout and smooth proceedings. Voters must carry valid ID, with a list of acceptable documents provided. Polling stations are open from 7 am to 6 pm. Essential guidelines, including restrictions on mobile phones and political symbols, are in place to ensure fair elections.

A viral video highlights Jaipur's innovative approach to combating rising heat by transforming rooftops into green spaces. Over 4,000 homes are reportedly staying cooler without heavy AC use, thanks to portable farming systems that utilize plants for shade and moisture, reducing indoor temperatures.

A high-profile IPS officer, Ajay Pal Sharma, is on the ground in Falta Constituency, South 24 Parganas. He is accompanied by a large CRPF contingent to identify and deter those intimidating voters. Trinamool candidate Jahangir Khan has publicly challenged Sharma, comparing himself to the character Pushpa. Sharma's actions follow complaints of voter threats in the constituency.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery in Udupi. The centre provides professional training and promotes entrepreneurship among youth. It has grown steadily since 2016, offering industry-relevant skills. The minister also witnessed an MoU signing for lab-grown diamond technologies.

With the Riven Tide update arriving on April 28, developer Embark Studios has introduced sweeping gameplay changes, a brand-new map, weapon balance adjustments, and dozens of bug fixes. For players returning to ARC Raiders, the patch signals a clear shift in both challenge and strategy.

Mumbai faces a 10% water cut starting May 15. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation made this decision following predictions of a below-normal monsoon. Water levels in the city's lakes are currently at 28.35 percent. This measure aims to ensure water availability until July 6. Further measures could extend supply until August 17.

SpaceX's board has approved a groundbreaking pay package for founder Elon Musk. This plan links his compensation to extraordinary future achievements. These include establishing a permanent human colony on Mars and operating massive data centers in space. These ambitious targets are designed to align with SpaceX's long-term vision. The company is preparing for a potential initial public offering.

West Bengal Elections phase 2 voting: West Bengal heads to the polls tomorrow, April 28, 2026, for the second phase, with 142 constituencies voting from 7 am to 6 pm. Voters have to carry valid ID proofs like Voter ID or Aadhaar to the polling booth. The process involves identity verification, indelible ink marking, and casting votes via EVM with VVPAT confirmation.

3 Idiots part 2 confirmed: Aamir Khan has officially confirmed that the long-awaited sequel to the 2009 cult classic 3 Idiots is in the works. During a recent promotional event, the actor revealed that director Rajkumar Hirani and writer Abhijat Joshi have cracked a eautiful and unusual story that reunites the beloved trio a decade after their original journey.

Female employment in India has seen a substantial rise, reaching 39 percent in 2025 from 22 percent in 2017. This growth reflects increased work opportunities for women. The Female Labour Force Participation Rate has also climbed to 40 percent. These positive trends highlight a transformative improvement in female employment indicators across the nation.

A Bengaluru professional shared her decision to leave the city for her hometown, Faridabad, after realizing her dream career was becoming exhausting. While acknowledging the opportunities Bengaluru provided, she felt a constant race and a lack of personal freedom. She chose to prioritize family and intentional living over relentless ambition.

Andhra University celebrates its centenary. The life of Swami Jnanananda is being remembered. He renounced ordinary life for spiritual pursuits. He later studied physics and mathematics in Europe. His research in X-ray spectroscopy earned him a D.Sc. He also worked on nuclear physics in England and the US. Returning to India, he joined Andhra University to develop nuclear physics facilities.

Indian weightlifters achieved significant success in Apia, Samoa. They clinched four gold medals at the Commonwealth Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships and the Universal Cup. Sunil Singh, Aisangfa Gogoi, and Abhinob Gogoi secured top honors in their respective categories. Charu Pesi also won gold in the Universal Cup. These victories highlight India's growing strength in international weightlifting.

Border movement is restricted in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. This curb is in place for the final phase of assembly elections. The Petrapole land port is affected. Restrictions are to prevent cross-border influence on the electoral process. Exemptions are provided for medical needs and voter travel. This measure ensures election integrity.

Indian airlines Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet are in severe financial distress. They warn of halting operations due to soaring jet fuel costs and airspace restrictions. The airlines have urged the government for financial aid and a revised fuel pricing mechanism. They also requested a temporary deferment of excise duty on Aviation Turbine Fuel.

Amazon is aggressively expanding its quick commerce operations into Tier II and Tier III cities with a significant investment and over 1,000 micro-fulfillment centers. This move aims to capture future growth beyond metros, intensifying competition and shifting the focus from speed to supply chain efficiency for market leadership.

Renowned choreographer and filmmaker Remo D'Souza recently revealed he converted to Christianity at 15, long before his marriage to Lizelle D'Souza. This personal decision was supported by his father, who encouraged him to retain his identity. Remo now uses the name Remo Gopi D'Souza, honouring his father's wish. Read on!

West Bengal Phase 2 Elections 2026: West Bengal gears up for the second phase of its Assembly elections. Polling will cover 142 constituencies across seven districts. A total of 1,448 candidates are vying for victory. Key battles include Mamata Banerjee versus Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur. Other prominent seats feature notable leaders and political figures. The electoral contest remains intense.

Nutritionist Lovneet Batra offers insights on foods impacting women's health. Cruciferous vegetables aid hormonal balance, while omega-3s reduce period cramps. Magnesium-rich foods combat brain fog, and Greek yogurt promotes clear skin. Leafy greens strengthen bones. Conversely, soy isolates, processed meats, sugary cereals, refined carbs, and diet soda can negatively affect well-being. These dietary swaps support overall wellness.

A child's laughter can hide a medical secret. A Hyderabad neurologist shared a case of a three-year-old with frequent, unprovoked laughter. This was a symptom of Hypothalamic hamartoma. The condition causes Gelastic seizures, mistaken for joy. Doctors now urge parents to evaluate such laughter. Early detection is crucial for these rare neurological cases.

A dedicated employee quit his long-term dream job after seven years. The decision stemmed from severe burnout and mental exhaustion, not a new offer. He realized his breaking point one morning, unable to even start his car. This move allowed him to reclaim his well-being, finding peace and rediscovering personal interests.

Entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo shares his career path spanning two decades. He moved from aspiring space scientist to startup founder and content creator. Warikoo notes anxiety in young professionals about not being settled. At 45, he feels life is still open to discovery. He encourages embracing change and curiosity over rushing for certainty. His journey highlights growth through exploration, not stagnation.

Sthree Sakthi SS 517 Lottery Result (28/04/2026): Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Sthree Sakthi SS 517 weekly lottery today, April 28, 2026. The event will see one ticet holder coming out as the winner of the grand first prize of Rs 1 crore.

India faces significant reliance on China for industrial goods. China supplies over 30 percent of India's industrial imports. This dependence, especially in electronics and machinery, poses risks to India's manufacturing sector. India needs to build domestic capacity and diversify its supply chains to mitigate these vulnerabilities. Trade figures show a widening deficit with China.

Iran has highlighted the vulnerability of submarine cables in the Strait of Hormuz. These vital undersea links carry 99% of global internet traffic and are crucial for the digital economies of Gulf nations. Accidental damage from ship anchors and fishing gear pose risks, alongside potential sabotage.

A Chennai woman living in Sweden shares a stark comparison of life in India and Sweden. She details monthly expenses for a family of three in both countries. India offers domestic comfort and household help. Sweden provides better work-life balance and social security. The post sparks debate on quality of life definitions.

Authorities are launching a major crackdown on digital arrest scams. WhatsApp has banned thousands of accounts involved in these frauds. New measures include logo detection and warnings for calls from new accounts. Telecom providers are working to block suspicious SIM cards rapidly. The CBI has set a loss threshold for investigations.

India and Africa are entering a new phase in their relationship. Both nations are preparing to significantly enhance their ties. This partnership is rooted in ancient civilizational links and strengthened by shared struggles. A forthcoming summit will focus on an enduring partnership and shared vision. India's foreign policy places Africa in a pivotal position.

Industry representatives met with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to discuss compliance costs, testing, and MSME export challenges. Goyal assured support and urged leveraging trade pacts to boost exports, aiming for $2 trillion by 2030, building on the record $860.09 billion achieved in 2025-26.

Kerala Bandh Today April 28: A 12-hour statewide hartal is being observed in Kerala today, April 28, following the tragic death of dental student Nithin Raj. With over 50 organizations demanding justice, the protest has impacted public transport and commercial activity. Here is a breakdown of what to expect across the state.

In South Mumbai, four members of the same family died after they ate biryani, and they later consumed watermelon late at night. Their condition began to worsen, and none of them could be saved, with doctors pointing out that their kidneys were severely impacted. Doctors have said there are less chances that watermelon could be behind their deaths.

The final week of April and early May bring a wave of exciting OTT releases across South Indian cinema. From fantasy comedies and political thrillers to sports dramas and college web series, viewers can anticipate a diverse range of content. Several theatrical releases are now heading to digital platforms, alongside fresh online arrivals. Read on to know more about it.

Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada has released AP EAMCET or EAPCET 2026 hall tickets. Candidates can download their admit cards from the official website. Hall tickets are mandatory for entry to the examination centres. Engineering exams are scheduled from May 12 to May 15 and on May 18. Agriculture and pharmacy exams will be held on May 19 and 20.

The Supreme Court emphasized that religious institutions require structure, not anarchy, while hearing pleas on women's entry discrimination. A nine-judge bench stressed the need for norms and modalities for functioning, stating that the right to manage cannot permit unchecked actions. Regulation is essential but must adhere to constitutional limits, preventing discrimination.

A tragic car crash in Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia, claimed one life and left three others injured. The collision involved two vehicles on Highway 2. One driver was pronounced dead at the scene. Another driver sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital. Two passengers suffered non-life-threatening injuries. An investigation into the incident is underway.

Indianna Carroll will join the Las Vegas Raiders cheer squad for the 2026-27 season. She earned a spot with the Raiderettes after years of dedication. This achievement marks a proud moment for her family. Carroll previously came close to joining the Dallas Cowboys cheer squad. Her father, Mark Carroll, expressed immense pride in her accomplishment.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. He stressed the need to fight state-sponsored terrorism. Singh stated there should be no double standards in this fight. He also highlighted the growing threats of extremism and radicalism. The minister called for global efforts to tackle these challenges. He noted current geopolitical upheavals and conflicts.

A digital creator has gone viral for declining an IIM Bangalore admission. He chose to continue his job for immediate financial security and to avoid student loans. This decision allowed him to build a stable foundation and fulfill a major family goal. He acknowledged potential social perceptions but expressed no regrets. The creator's choice has sparked online discussion.

Indian authorities have secured the return of notorious drug trafficker Mohammad Salim Dola from Turkiye. Dola, a key figure in Dawood Ibrahim's drug network, was apprehended in Istanbul. This deportation marks a significant breakthrough for Indian anti-narcotics agencies. Dola is currently undergoing interrogation by intelligence agencies and will be handed over to Mumbai Police.

Gold prices in Dubai saw a slight decrease on Tuesday, mirroring global bullion market weakness. This dip occurred amidst rising oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran, which continue to create market uncertainty. Despite recent declines, precious metals have shown significant year-long gains.

West Bengal's 2026 elections hinge on the Left's resurgence. The CPI(M)'s vote share is the critical 'X-factor' impacting the TMC and BJP contest. A revitalized Left could shift voters away from the BJP, potentially altering the state's political landscape. The outcome depends on whether voters see the Left as a viable alternative once more.

A viral video by architect Olumuyiwa Ajisafe advises homeowners against concealing AC pipes within walls. This practice, done for aesthetics, leads to costly repairs when leaks or clogs occur. Ajisafe proposes building accessible wooden pelmets to house the pipes. This smart solution ensures easy maintenance without wall demolition.

Long before the stage name Silk became synonymous with South Indian glamour, Vadlapati Vijayalakshmi was a child bride fleeing an abusive home with nothing but grit. This is the story of how a Class 4 dropout navigated the predatory waters of a billion-dollar film industry, built an empire on her own terms, and why the very industry that relied on her eventually turned its back.

Queen Elizabeth II's 2016 Christmas broadcast emphasized that inspiration stems from ordinary people performing extraordinary acts of kindness and dedication. She highlighted volunteers, carers, and community organizers as unsung heroes whose quiet commitment significantly impacts society, challenging conventional notions of heroism and greatness.