The Economic Times

Financial expert Nitin Kaushik reveals a simple strategy to shorten home loans. Paying one extra EMI annually can cut a 20-year loan to 15 years. Gradually increasing EMIs by 5% yearly can reduce a 20-year mortgage to 12 years. This approach saves lakhs in interest and offers a risk-free investment. It promotes disciplined financial planning for wealth management.

Natural diamonds' value stems from human skill, transforming raw stones into meaningful treasures. India, particularly Surat, processes over 90% of the world's cut and polished diamonds, driven by deep artisan networks and a growing workforce, including increasing female participation.

A Bengaluru chartered accountant's social media post debunked the myth of early success, revealing that common milestones like car ownership, homebuying, and international travel are typically achieved much later than online portrayals suggest. By citing data, she highlighted that many young professionals are on track, even if their progress isn't always visible online, encouraging a focus on personal financial journeys.

Indri Single Malt has launched a limited-edition Red Wine Cask expression for its City Series, exclusively available at Ospree Duty Free in Mumbai airport. This new release, bottled at 48% ABV and priced at $120, celebrates Mumbai with packaging inspired by local landmarks. The launch aims to offer global travelers unique products linked to Indian cities and experiences.

India's microfinance sector is seeing a significant shift. Lenders are now offering larger loans to existing customers with good repayment histories. The average loan size has reached its highest point. This indicates growing lender confidence and a move towards more substantial lending. New loan disbursements are also showing steady growth.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra claims election schedules for four states and one union territory are aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party's convenience. The Election Commission announced polling dates for West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Puducherry. Voting will occur in phases, with counting scheduled for May 4. The terms of the current assemblies are ending at different times.

India's wholesale inflation reached a new high in February. Prices for food and other goods increased significantly. This trend mirrors rising retail inflation. Experts predict further price hikes ahead. Deflation continues in fuel and power. Food inflation saw a notable rise. Manufacturing prices also edged up.

Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, stated that Iran is intensifying its stance as the conflict enters its third week. He indicated that a diplomatic resolution is possible if Iran cooperates with the international community, emphasizing that neither the US nor Israel intends to invade Iran but rather to empower the Iranian people to seek regime change.

IndiGo's loyalty members can now earn reward points on duty-free purchases at Adani-managed airports. Travellers can pre-book duty-free items online and collect them at select airports. This collaboration enhances the value of IndiGo's BluChip program. The service is currently available at several Adani airports and plans are underway for further expansion. This initiative aims to simplify airport shopping for passengers.

West Bengal Elections: In a significant move, the Election Commission of India has reshuffled top police officials in West Bengal, appointing Siddh Nath Gupta as the new DGP and IGP, and Ajay Kumar Nand as the Commissioner of Kolkata Police. These changes, along with other senior appointments, aim to ensure peaceful and violence-free elections in the state.

Indian basmati rice exports are projected to stay stable this fiscal and next. Growth of up to two percent is anticipated over last year's volume. While exports to Iran may dip, increased demand from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, and Yemen will compensate. Logistical issues might stretch working capital, but exporters can pass on costs.

A Palestinian national has died near Abu Dhabi. Their car was hit by a missile in the Al Bahia area. This incident occurred as Iran continued missile strikes in the Gulf region. Authorities confirmed the death following the attack on the civilian vehicle. The event took place on Monday.

Saudi Arabia is rerouting oil shipments through the Red Sea port of Yanbu. This move prepares for potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Customers can choose Yanbu for a portion of their April supply. Alternatively, they can opt for Persian Gulf deliveries at risk of no oil. This reflects uncertainty over the ongoing conflict and the strait's reopening.

The Central Board of Secondary Education has completed its Class 10 board examinations. Nearly 25 lakh students await their results. Past trends suggest the announcement will be in the second week of May 2026. Students can check their marks on official websites like cbse.gov.in and results.nic.in. The process involves entering roll numbers and other details.

This weeks OTT releases bring a mix of genres for viewers. From the animated superhero action of Invincible Season 4 to the crime drama Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, theres plenty to watch. Audiences can also check out the thriller The Housemaid, the Hindi series Chiraiya, and several regional films and war dramas arriving on streaming platforms.

The Supreme Court will hear a suo motu case concerning victims of digital arrest scams next week. These scams involve fraudsters impersonating law enforcement to extort money. The court previously described such frauds as robbery and directed the Centre to draft a standard operating procedure.

Vijay Sales has introduced a sharp price correction for the OnePlus 13 5G, now retailing at 45,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage configuration in Midnight Ocean. This offer is applicable to store display units and marks a significant drop from the 72,999 MRP.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a strong warning about the detrimental impact of smartphones on young children. He equated excessive smartphone use to drug addiction, highlighting potential harm to physical and mental health. Adityanath urged parents to limit children's screen time and instead encourage studies, yoga, and physical activities for their overall development and future.

Trinamool Congress members walked out of the Rajya Sabha protesting the Election Commission's decision. The poll body removed West Bengal's Chief Secretary and Home Secretary. This move happened hours after announcing assembly poll dates. The Trinamool Congress condemned the midnight reshuffle. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the Election Commission's authority. He stated that questioning constitutional bodies is not wise.

Audrey Hepburn's quote, Good things aren't supposed to just fall into your lap. God is very generous, but He expects you to do your part first, emphasizes that success requires personal initiative and hard work, not just passive waiting.

Introducing EPIC Studio, the latest venture from EPIC Company, a groundbreaking step that unites its production houses under one roof. This innovative studio is set to craft a diverse range of content, from captivating films and binge-worthy web series to compelling television shows.

India's wholesale price inflation saw an increase in February. The rate rose to 2.13 percent from 1.81 percent in January. This rise was influenced by higher prices in manufacturing, metals, food, and textiles. Food inflation also climbed to 1.85 percent. These changes indicate growing cost pressures across key economic sectors.

Global airlines face profit pressure as Middle East conflict drives up fuel costs. This impacts operating expenses and travel networks. Airlines are adapting through strategies like raising fares and improving efficiency. The industry's recovery remains fragile, with future performance depending on conflict duration and energy prices.

Indian cricket is achieving global dominance. Mithali Raj sees men's, women's, and junior teams winning major titles. She credits BCCI and Jay Shah for transforming women's cricket. Rahul Dravid and Roger Binny also received awards. Binny shared his journey from player to administrator. This marks a proud era for Indian cricket.

Himachal Pradesh's higher regions saw fresh snowfall on Monday morning. This caused over a thousand vehicles to get stranded near the Atal Tunnel. Authorities are working to move them. Many areas experienced a significant drop in minimum temperatures. The state has also received rain in some parts.

Vivo T5x 5G price: Vivo is set to expand its T-series lineup with the official launch of the Vivo T5x 5G in India on March 17 at 12 p.m. IST. The smartphone is confirmed to feature a segment-leading 7,200mAh battery paired with a MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Turbo chipset, achieving an AnTuTu benchmark score exceeding one million.

The Enforcement Directorate searched ten locations in West Bengal today. This action is part of an investigation into an alleged illegal call centre operation. Simultaneously, the ED presented arguments in a Delhi court. The agency stated there is enough evidence to frame charges against RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and others in a land-for-job money laundering case.

Gaming firm NODWIN Gaming is preparing for a public listing. The company has appointed Arnd Benninghoff to its board. NODWIN Gaming is also starting a pre-IPO fundraising round. This move supports global expansion and strategic acquisitions. The company has shown improved financial performance. UBS is the lead advisor for the fundraising and listing.

The Haryana government has decided to close the case against Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad. The Supreme Court was informed that sanction to prosecute the professor has been refused. This decision means proceedings in the trial court will now stand closed. Professor Mahmudabad was booked for social media posts.

Thousands of Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles in Canada are recalled. A defect in the second-row seat mechanism means seatbacks may not lock properly. This could increase injury risk during a crash. Owners should not use the second-row seats for passengers until repairs are made. Toyota will contact owners with instructions for a free repair.

Julia Roberts shared a thoughtful quote about love, saying that even failed relationships can help lead someone to a happy marriage. Her words remind people that heartbreak and past experiences often teach valuable lessons, helping individuals grow and guiding them toward the right partner and a more meaningful relationship. Read on!

Sanju Samson shared a memorable chat between young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and coach Rahul Dravid. Ahead of his IPL debut, Sooryavanshi displayed a fearless attitude. He later became the youngest IPL debutant and centurion. Sooryavanshi's attacking style was key to India's Under-19 World Cup win. He aims to help Rajasthan Royals win the IPL title.

US President Donald Trump is linking a trade summit with China to Beijing's assistance in securing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump wants China, a major oil importer, to help safeguard the crucial waterway. Beijing has remained silent on the matter. China is reluctant to join any military effort. Analysts suggest China may prefer diplomatic mediation.

Singapore has recalled two additional batches of infant and toddler formula milk from Nestl and Nature One Dairy due to the presence of cereulide toxin. This brings the total number of recalled batches since January to 11, affecting approximately 5% of the country's imported formula supply. No new illness cases have been reported.

Hindalco Industries anticipates a surge in aluminium exports to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan due to supply disruptions in the Gulf region caused by the ongoing war. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on rising aluminium prices, which have crossed the $3,500 per tonne mark. Hindalco also clarified that its aluminium extrusions business operations remain unaffected.

Japan has started releasing its strategic oil reserves. This move follows an International Energy Agency agreement to tap stockpiles. The release aims to counter rising oil prices. Japan will release 15 days of private sector petroleum reserves. This is part of a larger global effort by IEA members to make 271.7 million barrels available.

Indian cricketer Shivam Dube shared a humorous moment with paparazzi, joking about his wife appearing after a T20 World Cup win. He later opted for a quiet train journey to reunite with his children, receiving discreet assistance from railway police to avoid attention.

Global energy markets face disruption. Asian refineries and petrochemical firms are cutting operations. This follows a U.S.-Israeli conflict impacting Middle East exports. Companies are shutting units and declaring force majeure. Feedstock supplies are severely affected. This situation is creating significant challenges for the industry.

Anand Mahindra Phool Dei post: Anand Mahindra drew attention to Phool Dei, a traditional spring festival celebrated in the villages of Uttarakhand. The celebration involves children collecting fresh flowers and visiting homes to place them on doorsteps while offering blessings for prosperity and well-being. In return, they receive sweets and small gifts from households.

Shreya Ghoshal addressed Arijit Singh's decision to step away from playback singing, calling it a courageous move. She emphasised her own commitment to live performances and also opened up about one condition that would make her step back from singing. The singer remains active with judging Indian Idol and embarking on a world tour. Read on!

An employee's heartfelt message to his manager after an appraisal, expressing family joy and personal nervousness, has resonated widely online. Bengaluru techie Raj Vikramaditya shared the post, highlighting the profound impact of professional achievements on employees' families. This simple exchange underscores the human element behind corporate milestones, revealing the deep personal pride and support systems at play.

The Election Commission has removed two senior bureaucrats in West Bengal, including Chief Secretary Nandini Chakravorty. Dushyant Nariala has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary. Jagdish Prasad Meena, the Home Secretary, was also transferred. These changes come as the state prepares for assembly polls. The commission stated the decision was made after reviewing poll preparedness.

Filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir made history at the 98th Academy Awards as the first woman nominated for both Best Documentary Feature and Best Documentary Short in the same year. While her films, The Devil Is Busy and The Perfect Neighbor, did not win, her dual nominations highlighted her significant impact on nonfiction cinema.

Chaitra Amavasya, observed on March 18-19, 2026, is a sacred Hindu day for spiritual practices and honoring ancestors. Devotees perform holy baths, donations, and specific rituals like feeding animals and lighting diyas to seek blessings, remove negativity, and promote ancestral peace. Charitable acts, especially donating jaggery, sesame seeds, clothes, money, and grains, are highly encouraged for prosperity and good fortune.

Myanmar's parliament has convened for the first time since a military coup five years ago. The army-backed party secured a dominant victory in a recent election. This gathering marks a nominal return to democracy, though the military maintains significant control over the legislature and government. A new 'superbody' is also set to form, further consolidating the junta chief's power.

FASTag Annual Pass: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will increase the FASTag Annual Pass fee from Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,075, effective April 1, 2026. This revision, confirmed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, applies to non-commercial private vehicles and allows for 200 toll crossings or one year of validity.