The Economic Times

Quote of the day by Theophrastus: Theophrastus, Aristotle's successor, emphasized time as life's most valuable asset, surpassing material wealth. His philosophy highlights that how we spend our finite hours reveals our values and character. This ancient insight encourages mindful living, urging individuals to invest time in meaningful pursuits for a more fulfilling existence.

40 MPH wind gusts and 15% relative humidity have triggered a Fire Weather Watch in Lansing for Wednesday, according to NWS Chicago. The alert runs from morning through evening. Southwest winds will range from 15 to 25 MPH, increasing wildfire risk. Dry air and dormant grass create critical fire weather conditions. Officials warn rapid fire spread is possible. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged across the Chicago area.

China's ambitious tree-planting program has transformed the Taklamakan Desert, once known as The Place of No Return, into a functioning carbon sink. Satellite data reveals measurable photosynthesis and carbon absorption, demonstrating a remarkable environmental shift. While water availability and heat absorption pose challenges, the project offers hope for desertification reversal.

Shrinking Season 3 Episode 4 release time, what to expect and how to watch worldwide is now confirmed. The episode streams February 18, 2026, on Apple TV Plus. Jimmy speaks at Gaby class, Paul faces Parkinson changes, and Gerry returns. Viewers worldwide can stream the episode using an Apple TV Plus subscription.

The U.S. government is backing prediction market platforms in a major legal fight with several states. The dispute is about who should control these online betting-style markets federal regulators or state gambling authorities. The outcome could change how sports betting, online prediction trading, and digital event contracts are regulated across the country in the future.

Five people were injured in a New York church explosion Tuesday morning in Boonville, Oneida County. One firefighter remains in critical condition. The blast happened around 10:30 a.m. at Abundant Life Fellowship Church. Thick black smoke filled the sky. Police say no sign of criminal activity. Investigators are probing a possible propane or gas leak. The church suffered severe structural damage. The cause remains under active investigation.

In a reassuring move for concerned parents, Nestle India highlights that its range of infant formula brands, including Nan Pro, Lactogen, and Nan Grow, are produced locally. This statement comes in the wake of international investigations into baby milk contamination.

Consumer preference is shifting towards higher-powered, premium motorcycles, with bikes 125cc and above now comprising 26% of sales in the first 10 months of FY26, up from 22.1% in FY20. This trend is fueled by improving affordability and evolving consumer aspirations, benefiting manufacturers like Royal Enfield and TVS Motor.

The gross refining margin (GRM) for Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) quadrupled in the third quarter, while that of Bharat Petroleum (BPCL) grew over two-fold, aided by softer crude and stronger product cracks.

Indian banks are moving to fixed-price contracts for ATM management. This change replaces older transaction-based models. Banks seek cost stability and assured service quality. This shift aims for predictable expenses and better performance from vendors. Many new ATM and cash recycler contracts are being awarded under this fixed-fee structure. This ensures consistent service and improved customer convenience.

Rishab Rikhiram Sharma transforms classical Indian music into a tool for mental health. His concerts blend breathing exercises, meditation, and traditional Dhrupad music with Bollywood melodies. Sharma's innovative approach creates community experiences, offering a pause from an overstimulated world. He is also exploring the science behind sound's impact on the brain. Sharma's pan-India tour focuses on well-being.

Summer product sales are off to a slow start. An extended winter and leftover stock from last year have delayed the usual sales cycle. Companies are now waiting for warmer weather and the Holi festival to boost demand. Manufacturers are optimistic about a rebound, expecting pent-up demand and potential price increases to drive sales.

Kotak Mahindra Bank has appointed Ramesh Iyer as an additional and independent director. This appointment is effective February 17, 2026. Dr. Ashok Gulati will retire as an independent director on March 5, 2026. DCB Bank has also approved Suhail Nathani's appointment as an independent director. This takes effect from February 18, 2026.

Muthoot Microfin is exploring inorganic growth by acquiring a majority stake in two non-banking financial companies. This move aims to expand its micro loan against property business. The company is diversifying its portfolio following recent RBI policy changes. Muthoot Microfin plans to significantly increase its secured lending. This strategy will reduce reliance on unsecured microfinance loans.

As traditional cable and DTH subscriptions decline, Indian TV distributors are innovatively migrating linear channels to Connected TV. This shift is not only about tapping into the rise of smart TVs in homes but also about keeping subscribers engaged.

India is actively exploring new export destinations for its steel in the Middle East and Asia. This strategic shift aims to mitigate the effects of the European Union's carbon tax. The nation is also focusing on securing essential raw materials through long-term agreements and asset acquisitions.

The government is planning to separate CTUIL from Power Grid Corporation and merge it with Grid India. This move aims to eliminate conflicts of interest in awarding transmission projects and foster a more structured approach to capacity expansion. Grid India may then be designated as the central transmission utility, ensuring a level playing field for all bidders.

The government is pushing states to quickly approve and implement projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Expenditure scheme. Over 1.04 lakh crore has already been released. With the March 31 deadline approaching, the focus is on timely utilization of the remaining funds. This initiative supports infrastructure spending by states.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met her Norwegian counterpart Jens Stoltenberg in Oslo. They explored boosting collaboration in solar power, rare earth processing, and carbon capture. Both leaders agreed to utilize the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement for growth in blue and green economies.

Institutional investors are pouring capital into India's warehousing and logistics sector. This real estate segment now attracts more investment than offices and retail. Investors seek stable, long-term returns from large platforms. These platforms are being prepared for public market listings. The sector is growing rapidly due to e-commerce and manufacturing expansion. This makes it a strong choice for institutional capital.

The Supreme Court is noticing a worrying trend of lawyers using artificial intelligence to draft court petitions. Judges have encountered cases where AI tools have cited judgments and quotations that are either incorrect or do not exist. This raises serious questions about the accuracy and reliability of AI-assisted legal drafting.

US stock market crashes today as the Dow Jones falls 114 points to 49,386. The S&P 500 drops 0.25%. The Nasdaq slips 0.35%. Bitcoin tumbles 2.19% to $67,326. Gold plunges 3.21% to $4,884. Oil prices weaken. Tech stocks trade mixed. Investors react to inflation data, AI concerns, and Federal Reserve rate cut uncertainty. Market volatility spikes across stocks, commodities, and crypto.

The Supreme Court will hear appeals in April regarding the fodder scam convictions. This includes appeals against the Jharkhand High Court's decision to suspend the sentence of former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad and other convicts. The court noted the advanced age of the accused. Cases where respondents have died will be closed.

Ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes of Sinope taught that insults reflect the speaker's flaws. He believed true dignity comes from within. His philosophy remains relevant today, especially in online interactions. Diogenes lived a simple life, rejecting material possessions. He emphasized self-sufficiency and independence from external validation. His teachings highlight that one's honor is not diminished by others' words unless accepted.

Indian courts are pushing business families towards mediation for dispute resolution. This approach aims to protect family ties and business value. Recent court directives highlight the benefits of negotiated settlements over lengthy legal battles. Experts advocate for formal family agreements to prevent future conflicts. Mediation offers a private avenue to address complex issues involving legacy and control.

The federal government will deposit $1,000 per child into new Trump Accounts starting in 2026. This is a one-time government payment. It is not automatic. Parents must open the account and claim it through their tax filing. Eligible children must be U.S. citizens with Social Security numbers and born between 2025 and 2028. The money will be invested for long-term growth. Annual contributions up to $5,000 will be allowed.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is seeking expert help to recover data from the crashed Learjet 45's cockpit voice recorder. Both recorders were severely damaged by intense heat and fire. The CVR, made by Honeywell, is undergoing examination. This investigation aims to understand the cause of the accident that claimed five lives, including Maharashtra's deputy chief minister.

NCP leaders met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. They demanded a CBI probe into the aircraft crash that killed Ajit Pawar and four others. The Chief Minister assured the state government will write to the Union Home Ministry. This request seeks a CBI investigation into all angles of the crash. The move follows allegations of conspiracy behind Ajit Pawar's death.

Tarique Rahman has taken oath as Bangladesh's new Prime Minister. This marks a significant political shift after two decades. Rahman's government faces the challenge of governance experience. India's Lok Sabha Speaker attended the ceremony, signaling hopes for stronger bilateral ties. The new government is expected to foster inclusive politics. Several international dignitaries were also present.

Heartreachment is a modern expressive word that states a deep emotional influence that reaches directly into the heart. It refers to moments, actions, or words that create lasting emotional resonance rather than brief reactions. The term blends familiarity and intuition, making its meaning easy to grasp even on first encounter. Heartreachment applies to daily life experiences, from personal conversations to powerful art and storytelling.

Bumfuzzle is a rare English word that means to confuse or puzzle someone. It is mostly used in casual talking, not formal writing. The word comes from old dialect words and has been used for more than 100 years. People often use it when something is very hard to understand or makes their mind feel mixed up.

The Supreme Court has expressed its reservations about the feasibility of tracking every violent event unfolding in West Bengal, suggesting that a petitioner should turn to the Calcutta High Court for possible recourse. The case highlights allegations surrounding the killings of BJP workers post the 2018 local body elections.

A recent online discussion reveals young professionals are struggling with the 9-to-5 office grind. An economics graduate shared his dissatisfaction with his filing clerk role, sparking a flood of advice. Many resonated with the feeling of burnout and disillusionment. Suggestions ranged from remote work to pursuing trades. The conversation highlights the search for fulfillment beyond traditional office structures.

India has emerged as a strong voice for the Global South. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated India is shaping global discussions and contributing to a more balanced world. The nation offers practical solutions to global challenges. India's progress is rapid and sustainable. Its digital infrastructure ensures welfare benefits reach citizens efficiently.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with France's Catherine Vautrin. Discussions focused on increasing local manufacturing for Rafale fighter jets. India also wants French support for setting up engine maintenance facilities. A renewed 10-year defense pact will boost training and technology cooperation between the nations.

The Karnataka High Court has dismissed a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi. The case was filed by the BJP over a Congress campaign. The court stated continuing the proceedings would be an abuse of law. Rahul Gandhi had reposted campaign material on social media. This campaign targeted the then BJP government with allegations of corruption.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. He conveyed a special invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The invitation is for Rahman, his wife, and daughter to visit India. This visit can be scheduled at a mutually convenient time. Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence in Rahman's leadership.

A recent viral post on X tells the story of an Indian graduate who rejected a Rs 7 LPA campus placement to pursue a Masters degree in the US. While the move was meant to open doors to higher-paying opportunities, he now faces Rs 40 lakh in debt and is reportedly willing to accept a Rs 3 LPA job. The story sparked a heated debate online, with some users calling it a cautionary tale about greed and financial risk.

The Competition Commission of India has granted its approval for Axis Asset Management Company to take over the portfolio management services division of Axis Securities. This strategic acquisition strengthens the Axis group by streamlining its service offerings.

A 2004 study published in Sleep and Hypnosis found that sleeping on the left side is connected to more nightmares, affecting around 41 percent of participants compared to 14.6 percent of right-side sleepers. The study analyzed 63 people, asking them to sleep on either side and then report dream experiences. Interestingly, left-side sleepers reported generally better sleep overall despite more bad dreams. Right-side sleepers experienced fewer nightmares but lower-quality rest.

Veteran actor Pravina Deshpande has passed away at the age of 60. She was undergoing treatment for multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer. Deshpande had a notable career in Hindi and Marathi entertainment, appearing in films like Ready and Ek Villain. She also featured in popular television shows. Her contributions spanned films, television, theatre, and web series.

Midterm elections 2026: Political forecasts indicate a shifting landscape for the 2026 midterms, with Republican Senate win probabilities dropping to 60% while Democrats are favored to win the House at 83%. Democrats are expanding their strategy into competitive districts, and key Senate races in Texas and Michigan are intensifying, focusing on economic issues and candidate endorsements.

Many office employees feel tired and sleepy after lunch, which affects their focus and meeting participation. People shared easy tips like eating lighter food, walking outside, drinking water, standing while working, and taking short rest breaks. These simple daily habits can boost energy levels, reduce afternoon tiredness, and help workers stay active, productive, and more focused throughout the day.

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited has secured a significant power plant project from Steel Authority of India Limited. The order is valued between Rs 1,200 crore and Rs 1,500 crore. This captive power plant is a crucial part of SAIL's expansion at its IISCO Steel Plant in Burnpur. Project completion is anticipated within 39 months of contract award.

Happy Lunar New Year-Year of the Fire Horse 2026: China celebrated the Lunar New Year with a TV show and once again the humanoid robots were a central part of the performance.

Indian drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories is set to launch a generic version of the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy. The company aims to offer it at a price up to 60% lower than the original. This move comes as the patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient, is set to expire.