The Economic Times
Elections 2026Economy / The Economic Times
French liquor giant Pernod Ricard faces significant hurdles in India, its largest global market by volume. The company is embroiled in a massive federal tax dispute and an antitrust investigation. Additionally, Pernod is under scrutiny from India's financial crime agency regarding alleged collusion in Delhi's liquor license auctions.
Indian tax authorities are in a legal fight with Pernod Ricard. Investigators claim the French company hid the true value of Scotch whisky imports. This led to a demand for 30 billion rupees in back taxes. Pernod Ricard denies wrongdoing. The company argues it was not given all the necessary data for the investigation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a strong appeal to citizens to take precautions against the ongoing extreme heatwave. He stressed the importance of staying hydrated and being vigilant for heat-related symptoms. The Prime Minister also encouraged community care, urging people to help those in need and provide water for animals and birds.
North Korea has tested advanced weapons including AI-guided cruise missiles. Leader Kim Jong Un supervised these drills. The nation vows to deploy these upgraded missiles near its border with South Korea. This move signals a shift towards modern warfare capabilities. Analysts suggest AI use in missile targeting is new, with precision yet to be confirmed.
Anushka Sharma's influence inspired Virat Kohli to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle, a major change from his previous meat-heavy diet. This shift, driven by health concerns and compassion for animals, has led to improved well-being and a more balanced outlook for the cricketer. Read on to learn about his sources of protein.
The Supreme Court has overturned a Rs 202-crore penalty imposed on Amazon by the Competition Commission of India. This penalty was related to Amazon's 2019 investment in Future Coupons. The CCI had alleged that Amazon suppressed information during the approval process. This development follows a mutual settlement between Amazon and Future Group, leading to the withdrawal of all legal proceedings.
Updated IPL 2026 Purple Cap: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their spot in the IPL 2026 final with a dominant 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans. Skipper Rajat Patidar's explosive unbeaten 93 powered RCB to 254/5, a total their bowlers defended effectively, dismissing GT for 162. Bhuvneshwar Kumar leads the Purple Cap race with 26 wickets.
The CBI has arrested two more people in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case. This brings the total number of arrests to thirteen. The new arrests include a doctor from Latur and a faculty member from a Pune coaching institute. The investigation is ongoing to uncover the full conspiracy.
The Itanagar Capital Region administration has banned the commercial slaughter of Mithuns. A fine of Rs 20,000 will be imposed for violations. Additionally, meat, fruit, and vegetable stalls along NH-415 are ordered to be removed within ten days. This action aims to ease traffic congestion and improve public health within the city.
Ebola virus in Bangalore: A woman returning from Uganda was quarantined in Bengaluru with Ebola-like symptoms. Her tests have come back negative, bringing relief to health officials. The Indian government is monitoring the global Ebola situation closely. Travelers from affected regions are advised to monitor their health. No Ebola cases have been confirmed in India.
Quote of the Day by Bernard M. Baruch, Be who you are and say what you feel, encourages authenticity over the exhausting need for universal approval. This timeless advice grants permission to speak honestly and exist without fear of judgment.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday spoke about an unusual theft case, claiming CCTV cameras captured a person arriving in a luxury car worth around Rs 2.5 crore to allegedly steal a flowerpot worth just Rs 45. Calling it a new model of theft, he said the government would not tolerate damage or theft of public property installed for city beautification projects.
A young delivery partner from a small town is achieving significant financial independence by earning around Rs 1,500 daily through e-commerce deliveries on a rented electric scooter. This innovative mobility solution is not only providing him with a steady income but also enabling him to support his family back home, showcasing a powerful model for economic empowerment.
Bayer CropScience's profit surged 13% in the March quarter and 21% for the full fiscal year.
Delhi temperature today: Delhi-NCR faces a heatwave with temperatures reaching 45C. Relief is expected from May 28 with thunderstorms and rain. A significant temperature drop to 36C is forecast for May 29. Rain and cloudy skies will persist until May 31. Conditions are set to stabilize by June 1 with temperatures around 37C.
China is now restricting top AI professionals in private companies from traveling abroad. This move aims to protect its advanced technology and boost its standing against the United States. Individuals deemed strategically important need government approval for overseas trips. This policy targets talent in the AI sector, including startup founders and researchers.
Former cricketer Robin Uthappa draws parallels between cricket's intense pressure and corporate life, revealing his past struggles with suicidal thoughts and identity. He found solace and rediscovered his passion for the game through his wife's advice, ultimately leading to a new chapter in coaching and a focus on mental well-being.
Muslims worldwide prepare for Eid Al Adha, also known as Bakrid. India will celebrate on Thursday, May 28, 2026. Many are using AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini. These platforms offer prompts to generate festive posters, templates, and images. This helps individuals share greetings and wishes digitally with friends and family.
Premanand ji Maharaj Health News Today: Spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj has suspended his public appearances and meetings due to health concerns, leading to anxiety among his followers. In a recent emotional video, he urged devotees to continue their spiritual path with faith, emphasizing that his presence is not central to their devotion and encouraging them to focus on naam jap and bhajan.
Britain and its allies face a serious cyber threat from Russia. A top spy chief warns that critical infrastructure, elections, and public trust are under attack. She stresses the need for urgent action from everyone, from businesses to individuals. Rapid AI advancements mean a narrow window exists to stay ahead of rivals like China.
A fire erupted in a Ghaziabad residential building early Wednesday morning. An electric vehicle allegedly caught fire while charging on the ground floor. Firefighters responded quickly to the four-storey building. They controlled the blaze and rescued occupants. No casualties were reported. Investigations into the cause are underway. A separate factory fire in Bulandshahr also occurred recently.
Karisma Kapoor recently recalled Shahid Kapoor's early days as a background dancer, even appearing in her songs before his acting debut. Despite facing numerous rejections and financial struggles, Shahid's dedication led him to become one of Bollywood's highest-paid stars. Read on to know more about his journey.
Beat the summer heat with smart food choices. Nutritionist Lovneet Batra suggests simple swaps for popular treats. Trade sugary cold drinks for homemade lemon soda with salt. Replace packaged mango shakes with traditional aam panna. Opt for watermelon over packaged orange juice. Enjoy iced lattes instead of cold coffee. Choose homemade popcorn over chips.
Indian agrochemical companies face challenges ahead. Higher prices for farm chemicals and uncertain monsoon rains are expected to impact performance in the second quarter of fiscal year 2027. Global El Nino concerns add to the worry. Meanwhile, China's pesticide production continues to surge, impacting global supply dynamics. Other chemical sectors also show signs of slowdown.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal met with prominent Canadian industry leaders in Toronto to explore investment avenues and expand bilateral economic partnerships. Discussions focused on enhancing collaborations in financial services, infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, and critical minerals processing, aiming to strengthen supply chains and promote India as an export hub.
India is closely watching the Ebola situation due to outbreaks in Africa. No confirmed cases have been reported in the country. A person in Bengaluru, who traveled from Uganda, was isolated for observation after showing mild symptoms. Health authorities are following World Health Organization guidelines. Samples have been sent for testing. The individual remains in healthy condition.
Byju Raveendran, founder of the failed Indian tech firm Byju's, has been sentenced to six months in jail by a Singapore court for contempt. The court found he disobeyed multiple orders concerning his assets. This latest setback comes as foreign investors, including Qatar Investment Authority, pursue him globally to recover losses.
Samsung Electronics unionized workers have approved a bonus pay deal, averting an 18-day strike. The agreement, however, creates significant pay disparities, with memory chip division workers set to receive substantial bonuses, while others in consumer electronics will get much less. This deal aims to narrow the gap with rival SK Hynix amid soaring AI-driven chip demand.
Quote of the Day by Michel de Montaigne is gaining fresh attention as readers search for mental peace, emotional healing, and wisdom through books. The famous Michel de Montaigne quote reveals how reading can calm gloomy thoughts, reduce emotional stress, and rebuild inner clarity. In todays distracted world, books still act like quiet therapy. This Quote of the Day reminds people that strong minds grow through reflection, deep reading, and meaningful ideas, not endless noise or digital escape.
Rain prediction Kolkata: Kolkata anticipates a welcome respite from the heatwave as light rainfall is predicted starting today, May 27. Enhanced rain activities are expected across south Bengal from Wednesday, with Thursday and Friday offering higher chances of downpours. Residents can expect a humid and stormy week ahead, with thunderstorms and gusty winds likely.
A traveler from Uganda has been isolated in Bengaluru with mild symptoms, prompting precautionary measures amid African Ebola outbreaks. Samples are being tested, and authorities emphasize no confirmed cases in India while urging the public to rely on official information.
Tofan Jena and Minati Rout are among many in India regaining sight through affordable glasses. GoodVision, a charity, offers free eye screenings and glasses to those in need. They also perform cataract surgeries. This initiative brings clear vision to communities lacking access to eye care. The program aims to improve lives and boost productivity across India.
Kevin Costner once shared a simple yet profound marriage insight: the ability to apologise, even when you believe you are right. This emphasises emotional maturity and valuing the relationship over ego. Despite his own public divorces, this advice continues to resonate for its realistic approach to navigating disagreements. Read on!
Donald Trump said an annual medical checkup had gone perfectly Tuesday, as the health of the oldest US president ever to take the oath faces growing scrutiny with the approach of his 80th birthday. Biden was the oldest ever president to take office -- until Trump began his second term.
Adani Green Energy has commissioned a massive 3.37 GWh battery storage system in Khavda, Gujarat. This is the world's largest single-location battery storage outside China. The project was completed rapidly, enhancing grid reliability and enabling round-the-clock renewable power. Adani Green Energy plans significant future expansion of its battery storage capacity.
JK Tyre plans a massive 4,900 crore investment by FY30 to expand its production capacity. This significant outlay signals strong confidence in future demand across vehicle segments. The company is already undertaking a 1,130 crore expansion. This strategic move aims to increase capacity by nearly a fourth, with a focus on passenger car radial tyres.
Hyderabad weather update: Telangana is facing an intense heatwave, with the IMD issuing red and orange alerts for several districts. While temperatures soar above 46C in many areas, pre-monsoon showers are expected from Thursday, potentially bringing relief with light rain and thunderstorms across the state. Hyderabad is likely to partly cloudy skies with light rain.
Franz Kafka's profound words capture a universal struggle with human connection. Many feel alienated and doubt their ability to form relationships. Modern life, with its digital interactions, intensifies these feelings. The fear of vulnerability makes genuine intimacy challenging. Kafka's insights remain relevant, highlighting the ongoing human desire for belonging alongside the fear of emotional risks.
Suspected illegal immigrants are gathering at the Hakimpur border in West Bengal seeking to return to Bangladesh. This follows the state's new BJP government's announcement of a detect, delete and deport policy. Holding centres are being set up across districts for apprehended foreigners. The move revives scenes from last winter's voter revision exercise.
The United States and Iran are close to a deal to end the ongoing war and reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations are progressing well, with both sides expressing optimism. The agreement aims to cease hostilities, allow global shipping to resume, and address Iran's nuclear program. Details are still being finalized, but a resolution appears within reach.
Samsung Electronics is investing $1.5 billion in Vietnam to build a new semiconductor testing plant, set to begin operations in November 2027. This expansion aims to address the global shortage of DRAM and NAND memory chips, exacerbated by surging AI demand.
A liquefied natural gas tanker from Abu Dhabi has exited the Strait of Hormuz. This marks an increase in energy shipments through the crucial passage. The vessel is heading to India. This comes as energy flows through Hormuz see a slight rise. The strait had been largely closed to LNG traffic since late February. This situation had impacted global supply.
Donald E. Newhouse, president of Advance Publications and former AP chairman, has died at 96. He led the family's newspaper group for nearly 50 years, navigating it into the internet age while emphasizing quality journalism and editorial independence. Newhouse was known for his wisdom, generosity, and a hands-off approach to his publishers.

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