The Economic Times

The Thought of the day by Sabrina Carpenter defines a philosophy shaped by growth, reinvention and self-belief. In defining confidence as beauty, Carpenter offers a perspective that extends beyond celebrity.

India has reportedly received an invitation from US President Donald Trump to join a new 'Board of Peace' focused on Gaza. This initiative aims for a more agile approach to resolving global conflicts. While Hungary has accepted, other nations are responding cautiously. The board, potentially chaired by Trump, could expand its scope after addressing the Gaza situation.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms release time, schedule and how to watch details when the HBO series starts, episode dates, time zones, platforms, cast, story setting, and how viewers in the US and UK can stream the Game of Thrones spin-off.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will visit India on Monday. The visit aims to explore new avenues for strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership. Discussions will focus on trade, investment, defense, and energy. Regional and global issues of mutual interest will also be on the agenda.

Germany and its European allies will not yield to pressure from US President Donald Trump. Trump announced new tariffs to force Europe's hand in the Greenland dispute. German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil stated that while Germany seeks common solutions with the US, it will not accept blackmail.

Karnataka's delegation is heading to Davos for the World Economic Forum 2026. Minister M B Patil leads the team with a focus on turning investment plans into actual projects. They will attend over 45 high-level meetings to attract global investors. The state aims to showcase its readiness for manufacturing, renewable energy, and data centres.

Landman Season 3 renewal, release date, filming, cast, story update, and Season 2 finale ending explained covers Paramount+ confirmation, expected release window, returning cast, story direction, and a full breakdown of how Season 2 ended and set up the next chapter.

Quote of the day by Jane Austen endures because it captures a universal truth about human connection. In her view, conversation is not merely social decoration but the foundation of meaningful relationships.

Indian families face immense pressure as US immigration policies impact students' career prospects. Many borrowed heavily for foreign education, only to find limited job opportunities. One father's debt soared to over 2 crore supporting his sons in the US. A job offer for one son brought some relief, but the struggle continues for many.

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a chargesheet against Magicwin, an online betting website. Pakistani directors of the company are based in the UAE. The case stems from unauthorised streaming of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 matches. Magicwin offered various betting and gambling games.

Assam is set to make its debut at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma presenting the state's investment opportunities. During his four-day visit, key agreements are anticipated, showcasing Assam's economic confidence and future-ready vision to a global audience.

Gujarat's Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi will lead a delegation to the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, aiming to showcase Developed Gujarat @2047 and attract global investments. Sanghavi will hold 58 high-level meetings with industrialists to boost employment and industrial growth in key sectors, positioning Gujarat as a vital global partner.

Held under the theme 'A Spirit of Dialogue', the WEF Annual Meeting 2026 comes at a critical juncture for global cooperation, bringing together top political leaders, including heads of state and government, alongside global CEOs and leading unicorns and technology pioneers.

A Bengaluru commuter's auto-rickshaw ride became a powerful experience upon discovering her driver was a woman. The driver shared her journey, highlighting training, the ease of electric autos, and her financial independence with a monthly income averaging 45,000. She also spoke of a growing community of women drivers and the positive interactions she cherishes.

Persimmon for weight loss: Persimmons offer a delightful taste and a wealth of health benefits. This seasonal fruit is rich in antioxidants, fibre, and essential vitamins. It supports digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes heart health. Persimmons also aid in weight management and contribute to good vision. Enjoy this versatile fruit fresh, dried, or in various dishes for a healthy addition to your diet.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has received an invitation from United States President Donald Trump. He is asked to join the Board of Peace for Gaza. This body is part of Trump's peace plan for the region. Pakistan has confirmed the formal invitation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the evolving nature of warfare, now encompassing energy, trade, and technology. He praised the private sector's increasing contribution to India's defence manufacturing and research. India is rapidly becoming a major arms exporter, with ambitious targets set for the coming years. The government aims for significant private sector involvement in defence production.

India's Missile Man and 11th President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, who played a leading role in the development of Indias missile and nuclear weapons programs, guided the youth and millions with his powerful words and insights. In his quote, he suggests people study failure stories to understand what setbacks and challenges one would face to achieve success. He advised people to embrace failure as a teacher and learn lessons from it.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis arrived in Davos for the World Economic Forum, embracing the 'Magnetic Maharashtra' theme. He lauded the diaspora's cultural contributions, including Lezim and Wari traditions, and announced the 'MahaNRI Connect' platform to foster global Marathi connections and showcase the state's economic progress.

Ruskin Bond's wisdom highlights happiness found in balance. His words remind us that true contentment lies not in extremes but in appreciating the present. In a world focused on more, this message offers peace. Bond's philosophy of simple living encourages gratitude and calm. His insights resonate across generations, offering comfort and a gentle path to a meaningful life.

Iran reports over 5,000 deaths in recent protests, with security forces also suffering casualties. The government blames errorists and armed rioters for the violence. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accuses the United States and Israel of orchestrating the unrest. The judiciary indicates executions may proceed for those deemed Mohareb.

India is actively promoting itself at Davos. The India Pavilion and industry partners are inviting global collaboration. Indian IT majors are highlighting AI advancements. Over 100 Indian CEOs and a government delegation are present. State governments are showcasing investment opportunities. India is generating significant interest among global leaders attending the event.

Trident Realty is investing Rs 1200 crore to develop a 125-acre township, Trident Parktown, in Panipat, Haryana. The project, backed by a Rs 250 crore commitment from IndusInd Bank, will offer a mix of residential plots, independent floors, group housing, and retail spaces. The township emphasizes sustainability and a wellness-oriented lifestyle with numerous themed parks and active zones.

New research indicates that Day Zero water shortages, driven by climate change and rising demand, could arrive much sooner than anticipated. Nearly 75% of drought-affected land may face severe water scarcity by century's end, with specific regions facing critical shortages as early as the 2020s and 2030s.

A major shipbuilding yard is set to be established at Ponnani port in Malappuram, Kerala. This public-private partnership project will be the second largest in the state after Kochi. The facility will initially focus on building small vessels, with plans for larger ships in later phases. The project is expected to create around 1,000 jobs and significantly boost regional development.

Sylvia Plath, a groundbreaking poet and novelist, redefined confessional poetry by merging personal pain with artistic expression. Her profound insights, like If you expect nothing from somebody you are never disappointed, continue to resonate. Plath's life, marked by academic brilliance and personal turmoil, fueled her raw and intensely emotional literary legacy.

MAIT has submitted pre-budget recommendations to the government. The IT industry body is asking for lower customs duties on key electronic components. They also want increased tax incentives. These measures aim to strengthen domestic manufacturing and global competitiveness. The proposals focus on critical sub-assemblies and audio components. MAIT also seeks to position India as a global repair hub.

Business confidence in India is soaring, reaching a five-quarter high. Firms are optimistic about demand, profitability, and investment. GST rate cuts and festive spending are boosting sales. The industry expects the Reserve Bank of India to cut repo rates. CII suggests continued reforms and infrastructure investment for sustained growth.

Michael Jackson, the undisputed King of Pop, transcended boundaries from humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana. His journey with the Jackson 5 paved the way for a solo career that redefined music. Albums like 'Off the Wall' and the record-shattering 'Thriller' cemented his global stardom, earning him unprecedented awards and a legacy that continues to inspire.

India Budget: India's AI ambitions hinge on developing indigenous Small Language Models (SLMs) tailored for local needs, rather than solely relying on resource-intensive LLMs. These compact, task-focused models are crucial for democratizing AI access, supporting diverse languages, and driving inclusive economic growth across sectors like agriculture and healthcare. Budget 2026 should prioritize funding for SLM development.

At the Advantage Vidarbha-Khasdar Audhyogik Mahotsav in Nagpur, Union minister Nitin Gadkari passionately urged the youth to step into leadership roles. This vibrant event is designed to transform Vidarbha into a bustling industrial powerhouse, showcasing the promising opportunities across various sectors. Gadkari highlighted that a thriving blend of industry, agriculture, and services is essential for the region's progress.

Warren Buffetts youngest son Peter Buffett revealed the surprising moment he realised his father was a billionaire. He said when he saw Warren Buffett's name on the Forbes list, he laughed, and his friends were equally surprised too. At a summit, the ace investor revealed that his children had a normal upbringing and they did not ride in private planes.

Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, is set for its OTT release following a disappointing theatrical run. Released in cinemas on Christmas 2025, the romantic comedy struggled at the box office amid strong competition and mixed reviews. Reports suggest that Amazon Prime Video has acquired the digital streaming rights.

New guidelines are in place for Indian missions abroad. The government aims to boost exports by diversifying markets. These steps are crucial amid global economic uncertainties. Commercial representatives will manage trade barriers and conduct market research. The goal is to leverage free trade agreements and increase their utilization. India targets USD 2 trillion in exports by 2030.

Varanasi police have registered eight FIRs against individuals, including AAP MP Sanjay Singh and Congress leader Pappu Yadav, for allegedly spreading AI-generated images and misleading information about the Manikarnika Ghat redevelopment. The authorities claim fabricated content was circulated to hurt religious sentiments and disturb social harmony, while opposition parties accuse the government of destroying heritage.

Wordle is a daily word game that tasks players with uncovering a five-letter word in no more than six tries. Created in 2021 by software engineer Josh Wardle, it rose to worldwide prominence thanks to its clean design and a social-sharing feature.

The political chess game in Nepal continues as ex-Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba raises a legal challenge against the Election Commission's endorsement of Gagan Thapa as the new leader of the Nepali Congress.

Sumadhura Group plans a significant Rs 6,000 crore investment for six new housing projects in Bengaluru. These developments will offer over 4,000 apartments and plots across 90 acres. The company anticipates a revenue of Rs 10,000 crore from these ventures. This expansion highlights strong housing demand in the city.

Goa is boosting tourism with a new airline incentive scheme. Airlines adding new flights will receive financial aid. The state also reduced aviation fuel tax. This policy aims to increase tourist arrivals. A new cruise terminal will further drive passenger traffic. New international routes are already operational. Regional flights are expanding.

In the wake of the BMC election results, actor Govinda, who is also a prominent Shiv Sena leader, expressed his aspirations for a thriving Mumbai. He emphasized that effective governance is crucial for the city's ongoing prosperity. With an optimistic shift in the creative landscape, he noted that artists now feel more secure, paving the way for unbridled innovation.

NASAs Artemis II launch pad: NASA's giant Moon rocket has been moved to the launch pad in Cape Canaveral, Florida, paving the way for first crewed Moon mission in over 50 years. The lunar launch could take place as early as February 6, depending on readiness. NASA director Jared Isaacman emphasized that the mission aims to fulfill NASAs promise to return Americans to the Moon and inspire future generations of astronauts.

Word of the Day: Sonderbewusstsein rewards patience and reflection. It reminds readers that life is not a singular narrative but a convergence of countless unseen stories unfolding in parallel.

Immanuel Kants quote highlights the link between self-respect and how individuals are treated by others, stressing that dignity begins from within. Through strong imagery, he warns that consistently accepting disrespect can invite further disregard, not because mistreatment is justified, but because self-worth has been undermined. Rooted in his moral philosophy, the idea reinforces Kants belief that respecting oneself is a moral duty tied to human reason and autonomy.

Lodha Developers saw its net debt climb 15 percent to Rs 6,170 crore in the October-December quarter. This increase stems from aggressive land acquisitions across Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Delhi-NCR, and Bengaluru. The company secured five land parcels for future housing and commercial projects. Lodha Developers aims for Rs 21,000 crore in sales bookings this fiscal year.

Parle Products saw revenue rise in FY25, though profits fell. Britannia Industries remains India's top biscuit maker. Mondelez India's revenue also declined. The Indian biscuit market is growing, with shifts towards premium products and strong competition from regional players. Companies are adapting with localized strategies to capture market share.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the NDA's campaign for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections in Madurantakam on January 23. The rally aims to signal the start of the electoral battle against the incumbent DMK government. BJP legislative party leader Nainar Nagenthran confirmed the PM's participation and hinted at a strong show of alliance partners on stage.

Mary Kom's ex-husband Onler Kom has responded to the financial fraud allegations levelled by a six-time world boxing champion. He claimed that Mary Kom had multiple affairs and he gave up his career to look after the family, which Mary Kom told him to do. He claimed that he lived like her slave amid the public fallout between boxing legend Mary Kom and her ex-husband.