The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced financial incentives for families having more children. The government will provide Rs 30,000 for a third child and Rs 40,000 for a fourth. This initiative aims to boost the state's declining population. Further details will be released soon. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of a stable population for economic growth.
A senior Hamas official told Reuters that the chief of the group's military wing, Izz al-Din al-Haddad, has died following Israeli airstrikes. Witnesses in Gaza reported mosque announcements of his martyrdom. Haddad was described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as an architect of the October 7th attacks.
PCOS has been renamed PMOS, highlighting its broader metabolic and endocrine impact. Digital creator Tanisha Chadha, who has the condition, shared seven habits that led to her 38kg weight loss. These include a sustainable calorie deficit, protein-rich meals, strength training, daily movement, post-meal walks, consistent meal timing, and prioritizing sleep and stress management.
An Instagram video shared by Arnab showing his 84-year-old grandmother taking her first-ever flight after a long 22-year wait has gone viral online. The clip captures her calm and emotional journey from the airport to the skies, where she is seen boarding an IndiGo aircraft, enjoying small moments like eating makhanas, and quietly looking out of the window during take-off. The post also includes photos from the trip, including a warm selfie with her grandson.
Ayushmann Khurrana confessed to a temporary breakup with wife Tahira Kashyap post his 'Roadies' win, admitting his early 20s ego made him a 'red flag'. He revealed that success inflated his head, leading him to believe he didn't need relationships. After a six-month separation, he realized his mistake and they reconciled, eventually marrying in 2008.
V D Satheesan described the IUML as a vital 'brother party' for Kerala's secularism. He met IUML leaders, emphasizing their crucial role in the UDF's success. Satheesan highlighted the IUML's consistent secular stance, even during sensitive periods. He stated that the IUML's strength is essential for Kerala's stability. Discussions on portfolio sharing are complete, with announcements expected soon.
A woman alleged gangrape on a bus in Outer Delhi, claiming sexual assault by the driver and conductor. The accused, however, contend it was a monetary dispute, with police investigating the sequence of events. The victim's statement has been recorded, and the bus seized for forensic examination with the cops saying that the matter is under investigation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged stronger India-Netherlands ties in resilient supply chains and green hydrogen. He highlighted India's digital and tech progress. Modi spoke to the Indian diaspora in The Hague. Global challenges like pandemics and wars were noted. India is positioned as a key economic and tech partner. Discussions will focus on semiconductors, green hydrogen, and innovation.
The Karunya KR-754 lottery results are announced today at 3 PM. Ticket holders can check their numbers for a chance to win prizes. The top prize is a 1 crore jackpot. Other prizes include 25 lakh and 10 lakh. Smaller prizes are also available. Winners can claim their prizes from retailers or designated offices.
Walmart and Amazon are aggressively expanding online delivery services into rural America, a market previously overlooked due to logistical challenges and perceived lower profitability. Leveraging existing store networks and new micro-fulfillment hubs, both retail giants are investing heavily to capture this growing demographic, driven by changing rural economies and increased remote work.
Senior BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty praised Suvendu Adhikari as the ideal chief minister for West Bengal. Adhikari visited Chakraborty's residence for discussions. Chakraborty expressed confidence in Adhikari's ability to bring significant changes to the state. Adhikari sought Chakraborty's blessings before commencing his district tour. The visit is seen as politically significant ahead of upcoming elections.
Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, was a renowned American writer and humorist. He captured societal flaws and human nature through his stories and sharp remarks. Twain's works, including Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, transformed American fiction. He faced personal loss and bankruptcy but repaid debts through lectures. Twain died in 1910, remembered for his wit and moral insight.
A resurfaced 1838 letter from Abraham Lincoln reveals his deep-seated insecurity about love, humorously questioning why anyone would marry him. This quote, mixing wit with vulnerability, resonates today as it shows common struggles with self-doubt and fear of rejection. Despite his early pronouncements, he later married Mary Todd. Read on!
Manoj Jarange, a Maratha quota activist, will begin an indefinite hunger strike on May 30. He has set a May 29 deadline for the Maharashtra government to issue Kunbi caste certificates in Marathwada. Jarange demands the dissolution of the Maratha quota sub-committee and a separate ministry for Maratha and Kunbi communities.
Quote of the day by Chris Pine highlights a message about growth and identity. The quote explains how mistakes shape people and help them learn. The life story and career of Chris Pine support this idea through his experiences in film, television, and theatre. This article explains the meaning of the quote, its relevance today, and life lessons connected to his journey and achievements in entertainment.
Indian Naval Ship Sunayna has docked in Colombo for a three-day visit. The ship is part of the Indian Ocean Ship - Security and Growth for All in the Region initiative. This deployment involves a multinational crew from 16 countries. The visit aims to foster cooperation and maritime security. The ship will be open to visitors.
Delhi is set to unveil a new city logistics plan aimed at boosting industrial investment. The national capital has achieved the highest 'Exemplary' ranking in the LEADS 2025 Index. This recognition highlights the government's efforts in improving logistics infrastructure and ease of doing business. The plan will be integrated into the upcoming Warehousing and Logistics Policy 2025.
Prime Minister Modi's visit to the Netherlands highlights India's critical reliance on ASML, the sole provider of advanced lithography machines, for its ambitious semiconductor manufacturing goals. This Dutch company's technology is indispensable for India's multi-billion-dollar chip project, underscoring ASML's pivotal role in India's pursuit of silicon sovereignty amidst global tech rivalries.
US President Donald Trump revealed the Iran ceasefire was a favor to Pakistan, acting as mediator. He indicated international pressure also played a role. Trump dismissed needing favors from China's President Xi Jinping regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The US may conduct further action after the truce. Pakistan's mediation role faces scrutiny within the US administration.
The India Meteorological Department will soon update its heatwave warning criteria. Current parameters do not suit India's geography, causing issues in states like Kerala. This revision aims to improve the accuracy of heatwave declarations. New criteria will be finalized after consulting the Disaster Management Authority. This change comes as Kerala experiences unusually high temperatures and humidity.
A Mumbai family chose to celebrate their son Mohammed Zaid's 55 percent board exam score. Instead of pressure, they organized a surprise party. A custom cake designed like his marksheet was part of the joyous occasion. The heartwarming gesture emphasizes happiness over high marks. This unique celebration has resonated widely online.
India's Narcotics Control Bureau has achieved a significant breakthrough. Under 'Operation RAGEPILL', the agency seized the first-ever consignment of Captagon, a drug known as the 'Jihadi Drug'. The seizure is valued at Rs 182 crore. This operation targeted a consignment bound for the Middle East. A foreign national was also arrested.
The Israel-UAE alliance, typically discreet, was exposed by revelations of Iron Dome deployment and a secret Netanyahu visit, prompting a UAE denial. This highlights regional sensitivities to public ties with Israel, especially amid the Iran war and Gaza conflict, as Gulf states prefer to downplay such partnerships.
Shadaab Khan, son of legendary Amjad Khan, recently shared his audition experience for the Dhurandhar franchise. He explained why he did not get the role. He also opened up about his father's enduring legacy. He believes the film Sholay remains unparalleled in Indian cinema, even after five decades. Read on to know more about it.
Rashmika Mandanna concluded her Kerala shooting schedule for the mystical period action-drama 'Mysa,' where she plays a tribal Gondi woman. She shared glimpses of her Kochi diaries on Instagram, detailing her experiences with forest views, trekking, action sequences, and enjoying the local snack, pazham pori. The actress also mentioned overcoming her fear of heights during the demanding shoot.
Shadaab Khan, son of late actor Amjad Khan, revealed he auditioned for a significant role in the successful film Dhurandhar. While he felt his audition went well for a role spanning both parts of the franchise, he was ultimately not cast. Khan understood the rejection, citing a mismatch in physical appearance and screen presence required for the character.
Dehradun and Mussoorie see a surge in vehicles despite calls for fuel conservation. Thousands entered Dehradun over a weekend. While officials promote 'No Vehicle Day', the highways tell a different story. Uttarakhand is pushing for electric vehicles and public transport. This comes as global events impact fuel supplies and India's economy.
A viral video sparked speculation that US President Donald Trump was caught snooping at Chinese President Xi Jinping's private notebook during a summit. However, full-length footage has revealed the folder actually belonged to Trump. The clip, taken out of context, showed Trump leaning towards a folder on the table. Later footage confirms it was Trump's own document.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China on May 19 to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and strategic cooperation with President Xi Jinping. The visit follows Donald Trump's trip to Beijing, where unresolved trade and geopolitical tensions, including the Ukraine conflict, were discussed without a breakthrough. China remains a key economic partner for Russia amid Western sanctions.
The Kerala SSLC 2026 revaluation, photocopy, and scrutiny application process has commenced following the Class 10 results declaration. Students dissatisfied with their marks can apply online for rechecking their answer sheets, excluding the IT paper. The board has outlined specific fees and procedures for these services, emphasizing headmaster verification for all applications.
Tata Trusts faces a directive from the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner to postpone its board meeting. This action was taken without prior notice or a hearing for the Sir Ratan Tata Trust. The directive stems from complaints questioning the composition of the Trust's Board of Trustees. Tata Trusts maintains that amended laws are prospective.
Industrialist Harsh Goenka shared a Buddhist tale on handling life's difficulties. The story illustrates how perspective changes the impact of hardships. Buddha used a salt and water experiment to show this. A small amount of salt in a glass was bitter. The same salt in a larger tub was less noticeable.
Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that if it continues to harbor terrorists and operate against India, it must decide its future. His remarks came after the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.
Dr Reddy's Laboratories has launched its generic Semaglutide injection in Canada. This marks a significant step for the company in providing treatment for type 2 diabetes. Canada is the first G7 nation to approve this medication. The launch follows a recent introduction in India. Dr Reddy's aims to expand access to these therapies globally.
Pamela Anderson, known for her iconic roles, reveals a deep fascination with Carl Jung's psychological theories. She credits his work on dreams and the subconscious for shaping her understanding of creativity and self. The Hollywood actress even visited Jung's home and underwent Jungian analysis, finding profound personal meaning in his philosophy. Read on!
Former UN Advisor Santosh Mehrotra urged the government to tax the super-rich instead of relying on indirect taxes on fuel and gold, warning these are fueling inflation and job losses. He cautioned that escalating geopolitical tensions could push the Indian Rupee to 100 against the US dollar within a quarter, exacerbating economic stress.
Consumer goods prices may rise soon. Higher fuel costs from the West Asia conflict will increase shipping and production expenses. Companies like Dabur India and Marico have already raised prices. Further increases are being considered by Nestl India and Hindustan Unilever. This could affect consumer spending, especially in rural areas.
Angelina Jolie is an Oscar-winning actress who also champions humanitarian causes. Her life shows how stepping outside one's comfort zone leads to a broader understanding of the world. Jolie's extensive travels and work with refugees have shaped her into a globally recognized figure. Her legacy combines artistic success with advocacy for human rights and global equality.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah called for synchronized global laws and real-time intelligence to combat drug syndicates and narco-terrorism, aiming for a drug-free India by 2047. He stressed that fragmented international approaches empower drug cartels and urged standardized punishments and seamless extradition of kingpins to prevent irreversible damage from drug abuse and its funding of crime.
Rottnest shark attack: A 38-year-old man has died following a suspected shark attack near Rottnest Island, Western Australia. The incident occurred around 10 am on Saturday, May 16, when the man was believed to have been bitten by a shark at Horseshoe Reef. Despite receiving treatment at the scene, he could not be revived.
Rising petrol and diesel prices are poised to escalate India's retail inflation, with economists forecasting a significant ripple effect on household expenses. Analysts predict fuel price hikes could add 10-25 basis points to headline inflation, impacting transportation, logistics, and manufactured goods. This surge, coupled with increasing milk prices, is expected to strain consumer budgets further.
Pakistan is set to boost its defense budget by approximately PKR 100 billion. This move aligns with an International Monetary Fund program. Revenues are projected to rise significantly. The government will also focus on digitizing payments and tackling corruption. Reforms aim to create a level playing field for businesses. An IMF mission is in Pakistan to finalize budget proposals.
A disturbing case from Gujarat's Morbi district involves a man allegedly consenting to his wife and 13-year-old daughter being sexually assaulted by their landlord and his relative due to unpaid rent. The complaint, filed under BNS and POCSO, details repeated assaults at various locations. The husband and landlord have been arrested.

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