The Economic Times

Seeking the protection of Arjun's personality rights, senior counsel Swathi Sukumar, representing the actor, submitted that his personality traits were being misappropriated for the sale of merchandise bearing his image and signature, operating voice-cloning platforms, AI chatbots and generation of obscene content.

Myanmar's former leader Aung San Suu Kyi has had her sentence reduced. This comes as part of an amnesty granted by the new president. Suu Kyi was serving a lengthy jail term on various charges. The reduction is one-sixth of her sentence. It is not yet clear if she will be moved to house arrest.

Philippine forces eliminated ten suspected Muslim militants in a significant clash in the south. This encounter marks the deadliest this year. The operation targeted members of Dawlah Islamiya-Maute, linked to past attacks. The military seized weapons and bomb parts. An infant was found and received medical care.

Sagarmala Finance Corp. will raise 100 billion rupees in FY27. This funding will support ports, shipbuilding, and waterways. The company will borrow through bonds, term loans, and foreign currency. Sagarmala aims to disburse up to 90 billion rupees in loans by March 2027. It also seeks government equity infusion to support its growth.

Dosa, Idli, Sambhar, Chutney song: The rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) intensified after DJ played the song 'Dosa, Idli, Sambhar, Chutney'. The CSK has filed a complaint with the BCCI that the song was not in good taste and mocked the identity of Tamil Nadu. Earlier, RCB player Jitesh Sharma sang the same song ahead of a match that drew backlash from the CSK fans.

A recent Telangana caste survey found 89,000 children under 18 working daily. SC Madigas and ST Lambadis form a significant portion. The survey highlights economic hardship among certain communities. Disparities in employment quality across caste groups are evident. Many SC and ST communities have the highest share of daily wage laborers.

Audi and SAIC are strengthening their collaboration for upcoming electric vehicle models in China. They will also establish a new innovation and technology hub in Shanghai. This move aims to boost Audi's presence in the competitive Chinese market. The partnership's first model, the E5 Sportback, has seen initial sales and targets younger buyers.

Sadhguru offers a unique perspective on job loss, urging individuals to view it as a release rather than a loss after years of hard work. He acknowledges financial concerns but emphasizes counting blessings like being alive and having family. This shift in perspective, he suggests, can lead to discovering new talents and making a livelihood without traditional office work.

On April 18, 2026, NGEL, under the NTPC umbrella, is set to launch its 150 MW solar power output from a pioneering project in Rajasthan. This endeavor, part of the 300 MW Project Sixteen Renewable Power Private Ltd., marks a significant milestone as NGEL's total capacity will hit 10,276.

Rajesh Kumar has shared that he is gradually recovering from the Rs 2 crore debt he incurred after his farming venture failed during the pandemic, with only around Rs 20 lakh remaining, as revealed in an interview with Bollywood Bubble. Best known for Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, the actor spoke about the financial struggles caused by crop damage due to flooding, his reliance on family support during the crisis, and his decision to maintain a simple lifestyle.

The Income Tax Department conducted extensive raids at the residence, election office, and relative's house of Trinamool Congress MLA Debasish Kumar in connection with an illegal land grabbing case. Simultaneously, the Enforcement Directorate is searching premises of three businessmen in Kolkata and North 24 Parganas districts as part of its Merlin Group investigation.

India has slipped to the sixth largest economy in 2025 in nominal terms, according to the International Monetary Fund, but it remains the fastest-growing major economy. The IMF projects Indias growth at 6.5% in 2026, far ahead of the United Kingdom.

Finolex Cables is expanding its reach in Northeast India, focusing on Assam. Government investments in infrastructure and electrification are driving this growth. The company expects the Northeast to become a significant contributor to its business in the coming years.

A Marwari business philosophy, the 1,000-day rule, suggests a three-year minimum for judging entrepreneurial success. This approach prioritizes learning and survival in the initial years, focusing on understanding the industry, iterating the model, and building structure before evaluating profitability. It aims to prevent premature exits by allowing ventures sufficient time for compounding and adaptation.

Women are actively managing their wealth but face a 'Fluency Gap' in financial guidance. A new HSBC report reveals affluent women are intentional about finances from their 20s. However, fewer than half feel supported by advisors. The study calls for personalized, adaptable advice that evolves with women's changing life stages and priorities.

Amravati sex scandal: The key accused in the Amravati sex scandal, Ayaan Ahmed, casually told investigators that he became a playboy after his first break. Police revealed he maintained a promiscuous lifestyle and spent money on girls to lure them. He also took victims to cafes, hill station as a part of his modus operandi.

Illegal immigration from Bangladesh dominates politics in Murshidabad's border areas. Parties debate infiltration, identity cards, and demographic changes. Residents face scrutiny and fear name deletions from voter lists. The unfenced border fuels smuggling. Both major parties use the issue, while smaller parties criticize the focus on the border over local issues.

Security Forces conducted joint area domination patrols in Manipur's Ukhrul district, targeting Jalenbung hills and Thoyee Heights. The operation resulted in the destruction of ten re-established bunkers, reinforcing the commitment to preventing hostile infrastructure and maintaining regional peace and stability.

Gold demand in India is expected to rise ahead of Akshaya Tritiya as recent price corrections and easing global tensions improve buying sentiment. Retailers report early bookings and interest in lighter jewellery and coins. However, industry views are mixed, with some expecting weak demand due to uncertainty and cash preference, while others see steady festive-driven purchases and long-term growth outlook.

BPSC 71st Mains Admit Card 2026: The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has released the admit card for the 71st Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) Mains 2026 today, April 17, 2026. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the official website bpsc.bih.nic.in for the examination scheduled from April 25 to April 30, 2026.

Global investment firm Jefferies in its latest report said that gold has entered a consolidation phase following a strong retail-driven buying surge seen late last year and early this year across key markets including India, China and the United States.

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has issued a fresh directive to states to intensify action against the illegal use of artificial fruit ripening agents, especially banning calcium carbide for fruits like mangoes, bananas, and papayas due to serious health risks. The authority reiterated that unsafe practices, including misuse of chemicals like ethephon, will face strict enforcement, with increased inspections across markets and storage facilities. FSSAI emphasised that only regulated

Mumbai's booming real estate market sees global financial giants occupying luxury towers while low-income residents like taxi driver Ramu Virmale negotiate for modern housing. Developers are redeveloping slums, promising new apartments but raising concerns about displacement and the loss of community. This transformation is reshaping the city's skyline and its social fabric.

A new Kannada fantasy thriller, Jerax is all set to make its digital debut. Directed by Srinidhi Bengaluru and produced by Daali Dhananjaya, the six-episode series explores the consequences of suppressed truths when a xerox machine begins creating sentient copies. The show features a strong ensemble cast. Read on to know more about the show.

Kangana Ranaut recently revisited a controversial chapter of her life, revealing on an ANI podcast that she was subjected to a witch hunt after allegations made by her former partner Adhyayan Suman, including claims of black magic and abuse. She recalled being labelled a chudail and facing intense character attacks in her mid-20s, describing the episode as isolating and damaging amid widespread media scrutiny. Despite the backlash, Kangana Ranaut said she relied on her professional success, part

Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra met with US lawmaker Pete Sessions. They discussed issues of mutual interest. Kwatra appreciated Sessions's support for a stronger India-US partnership. The meeting occurred as India and the US negotiate trade agreement details. The US agreed to reduce tariffs on India in the first phase of the agreement.

Many urban professionals earn high salaries but struggle with savings. A chartered accountant highlights a silent salary trap. Fixed expenses like rent and EMIs consume most income early in the month. Increased salaries often lead to upgraded living costs, not more savings. This creates a false sense of financial progress.

While investments have seen a recent decline due to structural challenges, opportunities abound in digital value chains, AgriFinTech, deep technology, and sustainable food brands, with aquaculture also presenting a major growth area.

Streaming powerhouses are choosing to partner with Indian digital platforms, looking to delve into the rapidly expanding OTT market without significant risk. Leaders like BBC, Disney+, and Warner Bros Discovery are leveraging local expertise to tap into a massive user base.

Myanmar's leader commuted all death sentences in a blanket order on Friday, one of his first official acts since the 2021 coup leader was installed as the country's civilian president. Friday's act was announced as part of a broader amnesty to mark Myanmar's Thingyan new year, one of the country's many public holidays when forgiveness orders are regularly announced.

India's digital advertising market is set for significant growth. Projections indicate it will double in five years, reaching up to 22 billion US dollars by 2030. This expansion outpaces the broader economy. Mobile advertising will continue to dominate. The future of advertising will focus on privacy, AI, and data. Companies that adapt will lead the way.

VIDYA has acquired Nordexim MV International, a Romanian coffee manufacturing facility, to expand its global presence and deliver Indian coffee to international markets. This strategic move enhances VIDYA's integrated private label solutions, strengthens its European footprint, and optimizes supply chain efficiency.

John Krasinski returns as Jack Ryan in Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan: Ghost War. The movie is all set to premiere in India. After leaving the CIA for a quiet life, Ryan is pulled back into a dangerous world to confront a rogue black-ops unit. The film continues the espionage saga with familiar allies and a new MI6 officer. Read on!

Indian banks have halted gold and silver import orders as a fresh government authorisation under DGFT is still pending, leaving tonnes of bullion stuck at customs. India, a top global consumer, risks supply shortages and rising premiums if delays continue.

Eating an avocado daily for two weeks can positively impact heart health by improving cholesterol balance and supporting cardiovascular function. This habit also benefits gut health through fiber and plant compounds, aiding digestion and microbial diversity. Additionally, avocados can help regulate blood pressure and control appetite due to their potassium, fiber, and healthy fat content.

German influencer LizLaz is trending in India after former India cricketer Virat Kohli allegedly liked one of her old Instagram posts, and fans were quick enough to notice it. LizLaz is an influencer, vlogger, and content creator and most of her content is focused around travel, singing, and food. She has also posted about her travel experiences in Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai on her Instagram.

A British Columbia businesswoman, Teresa Wallace, received a staggering $5 million tax refund from the Canada Revenue Agency due to a 'bogus' return. Despite earning only $54,000 annually, she claimed nearly $10 million in foreign income. This erroneous payout, flagged for manual review, has ignited concerns about the CRA's oversight and verification processes, prompting asset seizure and recovery efforts.

President Donald Trump's attention to grand White House projects like a new ballroom draws criticism. Opponents say this shows he is out of touch with Americans struggling with rising costs. While Trump highlights economic policies, his focus on personal wealth and lavish renovations sparks debate. This contrast could impact upcoming elections as voters consider his priorities.

A professional with eight years of experience is weighing a Senior Manager role in Hyderabad against a Manager position in Bengaluru. Both offers provide the same salary. The candidate prefers Bengaluru for personal reasons but the higher title is in Hyderabad. This situation highlights the complex trade-offs professionals face today, balancing career progression with lifestyle and location.

Following the announcement of the 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel by US President Donald Trump, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, MB Ghalibaf, credited the agreement to what he described as the steadfastness of Hezbollah and the unity of the so-called Axis of Resistance.

The Income Tax Department searched two locations linked to TMC MLA Debasish Kumar. The searches occurred at his residence and election office. Kumar is contesting the Rashbehari seat. The Enforcement Directorate had previously summoned him regarding a land fraud case. Polling for Rashbehari is on April 29. Central forces were deployed at his residence.

TCS Nashik Case News: Allegations of religious coercion and exploitation at a TCS Nashik workplace have reached the Supreme Court. A plea argues these incidents are part of a wider pattern of forced conversions, calling them a 'terrorist act'. The Supreme Court is urged to direct stricter measures against such practices nationwide. Investigations are ongoing, with arrests made and internal inquiries launched by TCS.

Kangana Ranaut recently shared a difficult period where an ex-boyfriend accused her of black magic. She faced witch-hunting claims at a young age. Actress shares one major thing in her life that helped her move on from the dark phase and boosted her confidence. She now prioritises her growth and career. Read on!

India has called the targeting of commercial shipping in the West Asia conflict deplorable and urged the immediate restoration of safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, citing concerns over energy security and global trade.

Akshaya Tritiya 2026 Date Time: Akshaya Tritiya will be observed on April 19, 2026, falling on a Sunday, with the Akshaya Tritiya Puja Muhurta starting at 10:49 AM and ending at 11:36 AM, according to Drik Panchang. The tritiya tithi will start on April 19, 2026, at 10:49 AM and end on April 20, 2026, at 07:27 AM.